HomeMy WebLinkAbout3.2 TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS October 28, 1998
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
RE: PROPOSED CIRCULATION AND SCENIC ROADWAYS ELEMENT OF
THE GENERAL PLAN; AND PROPOSED NEGATIVE DECLARATION.
FROM: Curtis Williams, Planning Director
RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission:
Consider the attached draft Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element, discuss, recommend
changes, and forward a recommendation to the City Council, including a recommendation to
adopt the Negative Declaration.
BACKGROUND
The 1997-98 City Council goals and objectives included, as a high priority, the update of the
Circulation Element of the General Plan. The Council's priority on the Circulation Element
derived from the need to address several circulation issues which were of increasing concern,
- including ownership and maintenance of private roads, driveway standards, and roadway right-
of-way and standards. The Circulation Element would provide the framework for developing
subsequent policies and standards to address those issues.
On January 21, 1998,the Council approved a contract with Crawford Multari & Clark Associates
to prepare the update. The Council also appointed a General Plan Committee to work with the
consultants and staff to prepare the plan. The Committee is comprised of representatives of the
City Council (Bill Siegel), the Planning Commission (Carol Gottlieb), the Finance Committee
(Art Bernstein), the Safety Committee (Berin Fank), the Environmental Design Committee (Jean
Struthers), and the Pathways Committee (Bob Stutz).
The Committee met monthly from March through June, reviewing numerous circulation and
scenic roadway issues and commenting on several versions of the draft update. On September
17, 1998, the Committee sponsored a public "informational" meeting, attended by about 15
members of the public, and at which the consultant (Chris Clark) and staff presented a brief
overview of the draft and responded to questions. The discussion focused primarily on private
roadway issues of concern to those in attendance.
Circulation Element: October 28, 1998
Page 2
General Plan Requirements
California Government Code Section 65300 requires every city and county to draw up and adopt
a"comprehensive, long-term general plan for the physical development" of the community. The
Circulation Element is one of seven mandatory elements of a General Plan, which also include
Land Use, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Safety, and Noise. Communities may include
additional elements if they so choose, such as the. Town's current Pathways, Recreation, and
Scenic Roadways elements. Most of the Town's General Plan is quite outdated, having been
adopted in 1975. Exceptions are the Pathways Element, which was revised in 1996, and the
Housing Element, which was updated and adopted in August of 1998.
State law specifies that all General Plans shall include a circulation plan intended to designate the
"location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes,
terminals, and other local public utilities and facilities." The Town's circulation system is
somewhat unique in that there is no commercial or industrial development to be served and there
are no major roadways, other than at the perimeter of the Town. Instead, local roadway design_
and alternative modes such as the Town's pathways play a more critical role in the transportation
system. Because of the focus on the scenic nature of the Town's roadways and overlapping
policies of the two elements, the Council directed that the Circulation Element and the Scenic
Roadways Element of the General Plan be combined in this effort. Due to the recent updating of
the Pathway s Element and its importance as a stand-alone document, it was determined not to
incorporate that element into the Circulation Element. There are, however, numerous references
in the draft element to pathways and the policies of the.Pathways Element.
DISCUSSION
The Draft Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element initially sets forth several general goals and
objectives for circulation, and then discusses in more detail nine specific issues important to the
Town's circulation system: roadway classifications, private roadways, driveways, traffic safety,
scenic roadway design, emergency vehicle access, drainage and utilities, alternative
transportation modes, and regional coordination. Each of these issues is discussed briefly, and
goals, objectives, policies, and implementation measures are outlined for each. The policies and
implementation measures, while useful for assuring that Town actions are consistent with the
General Plan, remain at a broad policy level, and implementation will usually require subsequent
studies, standards, policies, ordinances, CIP projects, etc. to be adopted.
Background Report
The draft Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element also includes a Technical Background
Report, which was used to support much of the discussion and policies set forth in the Element.
The Background Report will not be included in the final element, but is provided for the
Commission's and public's information only. Revisions will not be made to the report unless
substantive errors are noted which might affect the policies outlined.
Circulation Element: October 28, 1998 •
Page 3
The Town's Goal and General Objectives
The framework for all of the goals, objectives, policies, and implementation measures in the
element is set forth in the Town's Goal on page 2 and the subsequent General Objectives. In
particular:
"The Town's Goal is to maintain our quiet residential roads:
• In good repair;
• In a visually pleasing manner;
• In a safe condition;
• To discourage through traffic; and
• To assume responsibility for private roads only when they have met Town
standards.
The circulation system should be compatible with the rural nature of the community
- a system that makes-the community relatively impermeable to motor vehicles and
open and safe to those on foot,bicycle and horseback."
These principles - maintaining the rural, scenic nature of the roadways, safety and repair,
discouraging through traffic, and responsibility for private roadways, form the basis for virtually
all of the policies which follow.
Issues
This report will not discuss all of the topics reviewed in the element, as the document provides
relatively concise overviews of each. Staff has, however, identified three issues which probably
deserve Commission scrutiny and comment and which were discussed at some length by the
General Plan Committee:
• Roadway Classifications - The classifications on figure C-3 set forth a hierarchy of street
types in Town. While these classifications do not imply any widening of roads (in fact,
policies in that section discourage that), they may have a bearing on maintenance priorities.
Also, the lack of arterials will hopefully assist the Town in limiting through traffic from
outside of Town. The Commission should discuss whether there are any classifications of
concern.
• Right-of-Way - A figure on page 7 outlines the Town's concept for right-of-way,
encompassing an area wide enough to minimize slope alteration and to accommodate the
roadway pavement, pathways, utilities and drainage, and adjacent vegetation. An
implementation measure on page 8 suggests that 60 feet is a typical right-of-way width,
although that would vary depending on conditions. The Commission should discuss the
adequacy of the proposed right-of-way concept.
Circulation Element: October 28, 1998
Page 4
• Private Roadways - As noted, approximately 50 percent of the Town's roadways are
privately owned and maintained. The element suggests, on page 9, two alternative policies
regarding private roadways: A) dedication of private roadways to public when upgraded to
Town standards and all necessary dedications have been offered by adjacent property owners;
or B) private roads remain private, except where private "through" roads should be made
public to connect to other public roads. This is a fundamental difference in approach, with
alternative A representing the Town's current policy to encourage the conversion of private
roads to public. The Commission should offer a recommendation as to which alternative is
preferred.
In addition, staff has attached a list of suggested corrections and minor changes to the document
which have been identified and will be incorporated into the final element. If Commission
members would like to indicate additional such changes, they may do so at the meeting or may
provide their notes to staff.
- Environmental Review
Any amendment or update to a General Plan constitutes a "project", as defined by the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). An Initial Study has been prepared which evaluates the
potential environmental effects of the proposed element, and a draft Negative Declaration has
been prepared based on the findings of the Initial Study. The Negative Declaration, dated
October 8, 1998, indicates that no significant environmental impacts are anticipated due to the
proposed Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element goals, objectives, and policies, and that no
mitigation measures are required. -
General Plan Review Process
State law specifies that amendment and adoption of General Plan elements requires public
hearing and recommendation by the community's advisory agency (Planning Commission), and
public hearing and adoption by the City Council. Public notice in a local newspaper is
mandated at least 10 days prior to each public hearing. The Planning Commission's action on
the Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element is, therefore, a recommendation to the City
Council. It is anticipated that the entire General Plan will be updated in this way over the next
two years, and the elements will utilize a similar format for consistency (with the exception of
the Housing Element,which has a very specific format required by State law).
Staff is available to respond to questions from the Commission or from the public.
ATTACHMENTS
Corrections and Minor Modifications
Negative Declaration
Draft Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element(separate cover
• Circulation Element: October 28, 1998
Page 5
Circulation and Scenic Roadways Element
Minor Corrections and Errata
1. p. 1, 2nd paragraph, last sentence: capitalize Town.
2. p. 1, last paragraph(Existing Conditions), 1st sentence,revise to read: "The Town is
generally dependent on other parts of the San Francisco Bay Region for a variety of
commercial, cultural and recreational facilities. Employment opportunities are similarly
scattered throughout the region within the commute distance of working residents of the
community."
3. Figure C-2: add Stanford Industrial Park and the Page Mill/I-280 park-and-ride to the map of
non-residential destinations.
4. Figure C-3: clarify that Moon Lane is not connected to Saddle Mountain Road, and that East
and West Sunset Drives are not connected.
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND INITIAL STUDY
FOR THE
LOS ALTOS HILLS - CIRCULATION & SCENIC
ROADWAYS ELEMENT
Prepared for:
Town of Los Altos Hills
Prepared by:
Crawford Multari and Clark Associates
641 Higuera Street,Suite 202
San Luis Obispo,California 93401
Contact: Chris Wm. Clark,AICP
October 1998
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Sections P
Introduction 3
Purpose of Initial Study _ 3
Project Location 4
Project Characteristics 4
Initial Study Environmental Checklist 6
I. Land Use and Planning 8
II. Population and Housing 9
III. • Geologic Problems. 10
IV. Water 11
V. Air Quality _ 13
VI. Transportation and Circulation 14
VII. Biological Resources 16
VIII. Energy and Mineral Resources 17
IX. Hazards 18
•
X. Noise 19
XI. Public Services - 20
XII. Utilities and Service Systems 21
XIII, Aesthetics 22
XIV. Cultural Resources 23
XV. Recreation 24
XVI. Mandatory Findings of Significance 25
•
Determination 26
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 2
INTRODUCTION
Los Altos Hills is proposing to review and adopt the Los Altos Hills Circulation&Scenic Roadways
Element for its General Plan. The Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element is the official statement of the
Town setting forth goals, objectives, policies, assumptions, guidelines, and implementation measures
intended to designate the"location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation
routes, terminals, and other local public utilities and facilities" (Section 65302 (b) of the California
Government Code).
This negative declaration and initial study(ND/IS)analyzes the anticipated impacts of the proposed
Los Altos Hills Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element adoption.
PURPOSE OF THE INITIAL STUDY
This initial study has been prepared by the Town of Los Altos Hills,the lead agency,pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA);the State CEQA Guidelines. CEQA requires that all state
and local government agencies consider the environmental consequences of projects over which they have
discretionary authority. Approval of the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element constitutes a"project"
under CEQA.
The Town of Los Altos Hills(Town)has initiated its environmental review process to disclose the
potential impacts that could be associated with the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element as described in
this initial study. Through this documentation process, the Town ensures that all of the possible
-environmental effects associated with the proposed project are fully disclosed according to the requirements
of CEQA.
An initial study is an informational document used in the local planning and decision-making
process. This initial study is not intended to recommend approval or denial of the project.
The purposes of the initial study are to:
• provide the lead agency.with information to use in deciding whether to prepare an environmental
impact report(EIR) or negative declaration;
•. enable the lead agency to modify the project to mitigate adverse impacts before an EIR is prepared,
thereby enabling the project to qualify for a negative declaration; and
• document the factual basis for the finding, in a negative declaration, that a project will not have a
significant effect on the environment.
As lead agency, the Town is required to circulate a negative declaration for public review before
adopting it. This document is being circulated for a 30-day review period. If comments on this document
do not identify any significant environmental concerns,the Town intends to adopt a negative declaration for
the project. If other environmental concerns are identified during the review process, the document may be
revised to serve as a notice of preparation(NOP)for an EIR.
Before approval of the project,the Town must consider the proposed negative declaration along with
any comments received during the public review process. If the Town finds,on the basis of the initial study
and any comments received,that the initial study adequately addresses the environmental issues associated
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 3
•
with the project and that no substantial evidence indicates that the project would have a significant effect on
the environment, the negative declaration will be approved.
PROJECT LOCATION
•
The Town of Los Altos Hills is located south of the City of Palo Alto and west of the City of Los
Altos in the northwestern portion of Santa Clara County(Figure 1). Los Altos Hills is unique in character
and is composed primarily of low-density residential development. In contrast,areas surrounding Los Altos
Hills are more intensely developed urban areas.
PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
The primary purpose of the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element is to reinforce and maintain
the rural residential nature of the circulation system. The existing Circulation Element was adopted in 1975.
In June 1997, the City Council established as a high priority the completion of an updated Circulation
Element that would also incorporate the Town's Scenic Roadways Element and closely relate to the Town's
adopted Pathways Element.
By implementing the proposed project, the Town of Los Altos Hills intends to fulfill three main
objectives:
• Develop roadway classifications,and levels of service for each classification,appropriate to the rural
and winding nature of Town roads. These classifications should be developed with an understanding
of the origin; destination and mode of transportation of the user,reflecting the residential character
of streets in Los Altos Hills; '
•
• Develop and maintain corridors for travel through Town in which the user can enjoy and view the
natural environment and open spaces that provide a buffer from adjacent land uses. These corridors
include pathways proposed or existing in the Pathways Element; and
• Work with surrounding communities and agencies to reduce impacts from the regional transportation
system.
The focus of the planning process is an update of the existing Circulation and Scenic Highways
Elements. The updated plan primarily retains existing circulation and scenic highway policies and includes
technical refinements required to bring the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element into conformance with
state law. The new circulation & scenic highway element focuses on updating the text goals, objectives,
policies, and implementation measures, adding scenic & highway goals and policies, and generally
modernizing other portions of the element.
It should be noted that subsequent activities resulting from implementation of the Circulation &
Scenic Roadways Element policies must be examined to determine whether additional documentation must
be prepared. If a later activity would have effects that were not examined in this initial study, a new initial
study would need to be prepared leading to either an environmental impact report (EIR) or a negative
declaration.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 - 4
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INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
This section discusses potential environmental impacts associated with approval of the proposed
project.
The following guidance, adapted from Appendix I of the State CEQA Guidelines,was followed in.
answering the checklist questions:
1. A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are
adequately supported by the discussion. A"No Impact"answer is adequately supported if
the discussion shows that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved
(e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be
explained when it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards(e.g.,the
project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific
screening analysis).
2. All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including offsite as well as
onsite, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as
well as operational impacts.
•
3. All analyses must be based on a comparison between conditions-that would occur if the
project were implemented and existing conditions(also known as baseline conditions).
4. "Potentially Significant Impact"is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect
is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the
determination is made, an EIR is required.
5. "Potentially Significant unless Mitigation Incorporated"applies where the incorporation of
mitigation measures hasreduced an effect from"Potentially Significant Impact"to a"Less-
Than-Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and
briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less-than-significant level (mitigation
measures from earlier analyses may be cross-referenced).
6. Earlier analyses may be used where,pursuant to the tiering,program EIR, or other CEQA
process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration
(State CEQA Guidelines Section 15063[c][D]). Earlier analyses are discussed in the project
description above under "Previous Environmental Documents and Site-Specific
Information".
•
The discussion that follows each section of checklist questions:
• analyzes previously certified environmental analysis and/or mitigation relevant to the issue,
including the potential for each effect to be significant and adverse and standard requirements
'and measures that will preclude adverse impacts;
• describes proposed measures that will preclude adverse impacts;
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 6
•
• analyzes the potential for residual or remaining significant adverse impacts following
implementation of the project and all previously identified,standard,and proposed requirements
and measures; and
• • summarizes the applicable mitigation measures established by the various support documents
and project-specific measures that will reduce the impacts to a less-than-significant level.
Identification of the potential for residual significant adverse environmental impacts would trigger
the need for preparation of an EIR. For issue areas in which no significant adverse impact would result or
impacts would be reduced to a less-than-significant level by mitigation, further analysis is not required.
•
•
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 7
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
I. LAND USE AND PLANNING. •
Would the proposal:
a. Conflict with general plan designation or zoning? - ❑ 0 ❑ ■
b. Conflict with applicable environmental plans or policies ❑ 0 ❑ ■
adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the project?
c. Be incompatible with existing land use in the vicinity? 0 ❑ ❑ ■
d. Affect agricultural resources or operations(e.g.,impacts on 0 ❑ 0 ■
soils or farmlands,or impacts from incompatible land
uses)? .
• e. Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement of an 0 0 0 •
established community(including a low-income or -
minority community)? -
Setting •
The primary land uses in Los Altos Hills are single family residences and open space. No
agricultural resources exist within the town planning area. Other land uses in the town include public and -
private facilities such as schools'and Foothill College, churches, and parks and recreational facilities. The
Land Use Element for the Town's General Plan provides a description of the basic framework for the
physical development of the planning area and establishes guidelines for the general distribution and extent
of the land uses.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-c. Project implementation would not result in a conflict with general plan or zoning designations,
environmental plans or policies, or with existing adjacent land uses because these policies are
consistent with the underlying principles that form the goals and policies of the existing land use
plans, goals, and policies of the General Plan for Los Altos Hills. As discussed in the "Project
Characteristics",general objectives in the Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element include the need
for roadway classifications and roadway corridor be consistent with the residential character of the
community and develop and maintain corridors for travel through Town in which the user can enjoy
and view the natural environment and open spaces that provide a buffer from adjacent land uses.
d. Project implementation would not affect agricultural operations or resources because no agricultural
resources exist within the planning area.
e. Project implementation would not disrupt or divide physically established communities because the
planning area is largely developed and the circulation system in the community has been established.
Conclusion
No land use impacts would occur as a result of implementing the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 8
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
II. POPULATION AND HOUSING.
Would the proposal:
a. Cumulatively exceed official regional or local population ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
projections?
b. Induce substantial growth in an area either directly or ❑ 0 ❑ ■
indirectly(e.g.,through projects in an undeveloped area or
extension of major infrastructure)?
c. Displace existing housing,especially affordable housing? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
•
Setting -
The estimated population for the Town of Los Altos Hills is 7,985 (1995 Dept. Of Finance estimate).The
Town has approximately 2,700 households. There are few developable areas remaining in the Town.
•
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-c. The project is consistent with the General Plan. The project implementation would not exceed
regional or local population, induce substantial growth, or displace existing housing because the
project does not provide, create a demand, or displace housing. The project would not induce
• substantial growth the project area because the planning area is near build out capacity and the goals
and policies of the Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element would support the existing and planned
development in the area.
Conclusion
No population or housing impactswould occur as a result of implementing the Circulation & Scenic
Roadways Element.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 9
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
•
III. GEOLOGIC PROBLEMS.
Would the proposal result in or expose people to potential
impacts involving:
a. Fault rupture? 0 ❑ 0 •
b. Seismic ground shaking? ❑ ❑ 0 •
c. Seismic ground failure,including liquefaction? ❑ 0 ❑ U
d. Seiche,tsunami,or volcanic hazard? ❑ ❑ 0 •
e. Landslides or mudflows? ❑ 0 ❑ •
f. Erosion,changes in topography or unstable soil conditions 0 0 • 0
from excavation,grading,or fill?
g. Subsidence of the land? ❑ ❑ ❑ •
•
h. Expansive soils? 0 ❑ ❑ •
i._ Unique geologic or physical features? 0 0 0 •
Setting •
The project area is located in a seismically active region in California. There are active faults on the
peninsula. Geological features include low-lying hills and valleys. The planning area has moderately steep
terrain, natural vegetation, and several creeks and tributary drainage channels.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-e. Project implementation would not result in fault rupture, seismic ground shaking, seismic ground
failure or liquefaction,seiche,tsunami,or volcanic hazard,or landslides because no new circulation
systems are proposed in the element. In addition,the appropriate town agencies shall review plans
and designs to ensure improvements made to the roadways as a result of policy implementation
would meet required standards.
f. Project implementation would not result in substantial changes in topography or unstable soil
conditions from erosion due to excavation, grading, or fill. This impact is considered less than
significant.
g. Because no expansion of the roadway system is proposed, implementation of the proposed project
would not result in subsidence,expansive soils,or change in unique geological or physical features.
Conclusion•
Geological impacts associated with the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element are considered less than
significant.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 10
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
IV. WATER.
Would the proposal result in:
a. Changes in absorption rates,drainage patterns,or the rate 0 0 ■ 0
and amount of surface runoff?
b. Exposure of people or property to water-related hazards 0 0 0 ■
such as flooding?
c. Discharge into surface waters or other alteration of surface ❑ 0 0 ■
water quality(e.g.,temperature,dissolved oxygen or
turbidity)?
d. Changes in the amount of surface water in any water body? 0 0 0 ■
e. Changes in currents,or the course or direction of water 0 ❑ 0 ■
movements?
f. Change in the quantity of ground waters,either through 0 0 0 ■
direct additions or withdrawals,or through interception of
an aquifer by cuts or excavations or through substantial _
loss of groundwater recharge capability?
g. Altered direction or rate of flow of groundwater? 0 0 0 ■
h. Impacts on groundwater quality? 0 0 0 U
i. Substantial reduction in the amount of groundwater 0 0 0 ■
otherwise available for public water supplies?
Setting
•
Los Altos Hills lies in the foothill of the'San Francisco peninsula. It does not lie over any large aquifer or
other water source. Drainages from the Town flow into the Santa Clara Valley.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. Project implementation would not result in substantial changes to absorption rates,drainage patterns,
or increased in surface runoff because no substantial increases in impervious surfaces are
anticipated. Policies for driveways, drainage, and utilities include use of proper design to
accommodate drainage for driveways and utilizing natural channels and topographical contours
rather than man-made materials to provide effective drainage away from properties in order to
preserve the rural residential character of the Town. This effect is considered less than significant.
b. The project would not expose people or property to water-related hazards. See response"a"above.
c-e. The project would not result in substantial increases in surface waters,changes to current course or
direction of water movements, or changes in surface water quality.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 11
f-i. The project would not change the quantity of groundwater, alter the direction or rate of flow of
groundwater or affect groundwater quality.
Conclusion
Water-related impacts as a result of implementation of the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element are
considered less than significant.
•
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 • 12
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
V. AIR QUALITY.
Would the proposal:
a. Violate any air quality standard or contribute to an existing 0 ❑ ■ ❑
or projected air quality violation?
b. Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants? 0 0 ■ 0
c. Alter air movement,moisture,or temperature,or cause any 0 0 0 ■
change in climate?
d. Create objectionable odors? . 0 ❑ ❑ ■
Setting
Los Altos Hills is participating in the Santa Clara County Congestion Management Program.
Discussion of Checklist Answers -
a. Implementation of the Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element would not substantially degrade air
quality beyond existing conditions because no changes are proposed in the existing roadway system.
•
•
b. Project implementation would not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants beyond existing
conditions. Goals and policies under this element promote"more efficient use of Town roadways,
easements, and public lands to accommodate all modes of travel". This impact is considered less
than significant.
c. The project would not have the potential to change air movement,moisture,or temperature, either
locally or regionally.
d. Project implementation would not create objectionable odors.
Conclusion
Air quality impacts associated with implementing the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element are
considered less than significant.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 13
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
VI. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION
Would the proposal result in:
a. Increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion? ❑ ❑ • 0
b. Hazards to safety from design features(e.g.,sharp curves ❑ ❑ 0 •
or dangerous intersections)or incompatible uses(e.g.,farm
equipment)?
c. Inadequate emergency access or access to nearby uses? ❑ 0 ❑ •
d. Insufficient parking capacity onsite or offsite? ❑ ❑ 0 •
e. Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? 0 0 ❑ •
f. Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alternative 0 ❑ 0 •
transportation(e.g.,bus turnouts,bicycle racks)?
g. Rail,waterborne,or air traffic impacts? 0 0 ❑ •
Setting
The circulation system is described in the introduction of this report.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. Project implementation would not result in increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion beyond
existing conditions. One of the goals of this element is to promote "more efficient use of Town
roadways, easements, and public lands to accommodate all modes of travel". Another goal of the
element is to"minimize traffic impacts from present and future activities beyond the control of Los
Altos Hills". Policies under this element which address increased traffic and congestion include
supporting efforts to provide mass transit opportunities to residents,for school buses,and park-and-
ride facilities, and providing bike paths and adequate road shoulders for bicyclists. Other policies
include working with regional transportation agencies to coordinate roadway planning and working
with cities and other agencies to review environmental impacts for projects, especially circulation,
on the Town. This impact is considered less than significant.
b. Project implementation would not result in hazards to safety from design features. Goals and
- policies in the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element include providing safe roadways for all
travelers, and driveways compatible with natural terrain designed for safe access to and from the
individual parcels. This impact is considered beneficial.
c. Implementation of the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element would not result in inadequate
emergency access or access to nearby uses. One of the goals of this element is to provide for the
most efficient use of roadways,for emergency vehicles. Some policies include roadways and
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 14
driveways conforming to minimum standards for emergency vehicles,road accessibility and visible
• signage from intersecting roadways, and emergency access road availability from neighborhoods.
This impact is considered beneficial.
d. Project implementation would not result in insufficient parking capacity because policies in this
element include ensuring that development of land uses (schools, homes, churches, etc.) provide
adequate parking. This impact is considered less than significant.
e-f. Implementation of the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element would not result in hazards for
pedestrians or bicyclists or conflict with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation
because the goals and policies of this element promote efficient use of the Town roadways to
accommodate all modes of travel and safe roadways for all travelers. This impact is considered
beneficial.
g. Project implementation would not result in rail,waterborne,or air traffic impacts because the Town
is rural residential and the Town does not maintain rail,waterborne, or air traffic facilities.
Conclusion
Transportation and Circulation impacts associated with the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element are
considered less than significant.
•
•
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Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 15
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
VII. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
Would the proposal result in impacts on:
a. Endangered,threatened or rare species or their habitats 0 0 ❑ ■
(including,but not limited to,plants,fish,insects,
animals,and birds)?
b. Locally designated species(e.g.,heritage trees)? 0 ❑ ❑ ■
c. Locally designated natural communities(e.g.,oak forest)? 0 ❑ 0 ■
d. Wetland habitat(e.g.,marsh,riparian,and vernal pool)? ❑ 0
e. Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors? 0 ❑ 0 •
Setting
Los Altos Hills is a residential community with many areas of native-vegetation. The Circulation Element
provides measures designed to protect native vegetation from development and destruction.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-c. Project implementation would not result in impacts to endangered, threatened ,or rare species or
locally designated species or habitats because no additions are proposed to the circulation system.
d. Policies included in the element are designed to protect watercourses and wetlands.
e. Implementation of the project would not affect wildlife dispersal or migration corridors.
Conclusion
No impacts to biological resources would occur as a result of implementing the Circulation & Scenic
Roadways Element.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 16
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
•
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
VIII. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES.
Would the proposal result in:
a. Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
b. Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and inefficient ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
manner?
c. Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral 0 ❑ ❑ ■
resource that would be of future value to the region and
the residents of the state?
Setting
Los Altos Hills is a residential community with no significant mineral resources.
Discussion of Checklist Answers -
a. _ The project does not conflict with any adopted energy conservation principles.
b. The project would not require substantial amounts of fuel or energy, will not increase demand on
existing sources of energy or require the development of new sources of energy, and will not use
resources in a wasteful or inefficient manner.
c. The'project will not result in the los of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of
future value to the region and the residents of the state.
Conclusions
No energy impacts would occur from implementation of the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element.
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 17
•
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
IX. HAZARDS.
Would the proposal involve:
a. A risk of accidental explosion or release of hazardous ❑ 0 0
substances(including,but not limited to,oil,pesticides,
chemicals,or radiation)?
b. Possible interference with an emergency response plan or 0 ❑ 0 ■
emergency evacuation plan?
c. The creation of any health hazard or potential health 0 ❑ 0
hazard?
d. Exposure of people to existing sources of potential health 0 ❑ 0 ■
hazards?
e. Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable brush,grass, ❑ ❑ ❑ •
or trees?
•
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. The project will not have an impact related to hazards.
b. The project will not have an adverse effect on the City's emergency response plans.
c. The project will not have an adverse effect on human health.
d. The project will not expose people to health hazards.
e. Implementation of the Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element will not increase any fire hazard.
Conclusion
No fire hazard impacts would occur as a result of implementing the Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 18
•
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
•
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
X. NOISE.
Would the proposal result in:
a. Increases in existing noise levels? ❑ - ❑ ■ 0
b. Exposure of people to severe noise levels? 0 0 ■ ❑
Setting
Primary noise generators in the community are I-280 and larger regional roadways.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-b. The Noise Element of the General Plan is used as a guide for establishing a pattern of land uses that
minimizes the exposure of residents to unwanted or excessive noise. The Town is currently near
build-out. -Project implementation would not substantially increase noise levels beyond existing
conditions or expose people to severe noise levels.
Although there are no current plans to widen I-280,the ever-growing traffic demands in the County
and the region may ultimately reach a point that widening the freeway is considered. In the
meantime,the Town occasionally receives complaints regarding noise from I-280,particularly from
residents of properties abutting the freeway. One of the goals for the Circulation & Scenic
Roadways Element is to "minimize traffic impacts from present and future activities beyond the
control of Los Altos Hills". Policies under this element include working with regional transportation
agencies to coordinate roadway planning and working neighboring cities and other agencies to
review environmental impacts of proposed projects in terms of circulation,on the Town. Therefore,
this impact is considered less than significant.
Conclusion .
Noise impacts associated with project implementation are considered less than significant.
•
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Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 19
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XI. PUBLIC SERVICES.
Would the proposal have an effect upon,or result in a need
for new or altered government services in any of the following
areas:
a. Fire protection? ❑ 0 ❑
b. Police protection? ❑ ❑ 0 •
c. Schools? ❑ 0 0 U
d. Maintenance of public facilities,including roads? 0 ❑ ❑ ■
e. Other governmental services? 0 0 0 U
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-b. Project implementation would not have adverse effects on police or fire protection.
c-e. The project would not require schools and would have no adverse impacts on schools,maintenance
on public facilities, or governmental services.
Conclusion
Because no change is proposed in the existing circulation system,no public services impacts would occur
as a result of the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 20
•
Potentially
Significant
•
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.
Would the proposal result in a need for'new systems or
supplies,or substantial alterations to the following utilities:
a. Power or natural gas? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
b. Communications systems? 0 0 0 ■
c. Local or regional water treatment or distribution ❑ 0 0 ■
facilities?
d. Sewer or septic tanks? 0 ❑ ❑ ■
e. Stormwater drainage? 0 ❑ 0 ■
f. Solid waste disposal? 0 0 ❑ ■
g. Local or regional water supplies? 0 0 0 ■
Setting
The Town of Los Altos Hills is served by sewer, water and other standard utilities. No changes are
contemplated in these systems by the Circulation Element.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. The project will not require power or natural gas.
b. The Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element will not affect communications systems.
c. The project would not affect local or regional water treatment or distribution facilities.
d. The project will not affect the sanitary sewer system.
e. The Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element will not affect storm drain systems.
f. The project will not affect the solid waste and disposal system.
g. The Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element will not affect local or regional water supplies.
Conclusion
No utilities impacts would result from implementing the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element.
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 21
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XIII. AESTHETICS.
Would the proposal:
a. Affect a scenic vista or scenic highway? 0 ❑ 0 ■
b. Have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect? 0 ❑ ❑ ■
c. Create light or glare? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
Setting
The Town is rural and scenic. The hills are an aesthetic resource. The many winding roadways are
recognized as a scenic asset for the Town. Many of the policies in the element are directed at protecting
those qualities.
Discussion of Checklist Answer
a. Implementation of the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element would not adversely affect the
scenic vistas or scenic highways in Los Altos Hills. One of the goals in the element states that"The
roadways of Los Altos Hills are scenic and rural. The design and maintenance of the roadways
should preserve these qualities". Policies associated with this goal include use of landscaping,
preservation of mature street trees, use of conservation easements, and appropriate placement of
street signage. This effect is considered beneficial.
b. Implementation of the project would not have a negative aesthetic effect; see response in"a"above
in this section.
c. Project implementation would not create light or glare. Streetlights are discouraged by the element.
Conclusion
Aesthetic impacts under project implementation are considered beneficial.
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 _ 22
•
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XIV. CULTURAL RESOURCES.
Would the proposal:
a. Disturb paleontological resources? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑
b. Disturb archaeological resources? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑
c. Affect historical resources? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑
d. Have the potential to cause a physical change which ❑ ❑ ■ 0
would affect unique ethnic cultural,values?
e. Restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the ❑ 0 ■ 0
potential impact area?
Setting
See Project Location, above.
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. Because changes are not proposed to the circulation,no paleontological resources will be impacted
by the project.
b-c. Because changes are not proposed to the circulation,no archaelogical resources will be impacted
by the project.
d. The project does not have the potential to cause a physical change that would affect unique ethnic
cultural values.
e. Because changes are not proposed to the circulation,no religious or sacred uses will be impacted
by the project.
Conclusion
Implementation of the Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element would not result in cultural resources
impacts.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 23
•
Potentially
Significant
Potentially unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XV. RECREATION.
Would the proposal:
a. Increase the demand for neighborhood or regional parks or ❑ 0 ❑ ■
other recreational facilities?
b. Affect existing recreational opportunities? 0 0 ❑ •
Setting
Los Altos Hills has a country club,riding facility, and numerous pathways. -
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a-b. Project implementationS would not have an adverse impact on parks, recreational facilities, or
recreational opportunities. The element supports the policies of the Pathways Element.
Conclusion
Implementation of the Circulation& Scenic Roadways Element would not result in recreation impacts.
•
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 24
Y'
Potentially
Potentially Significant unless Less-Than-
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
XVI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNI>iICANCE.
a. Does the project have the potential to degrade the ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
quality of the environment,substantially reduce the -
habitat of a fish or wildlife species,cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels,threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community,reduce the number or restrict the range
of a rare or endangered plant or animal,or
eliminate important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory?
b. Does the project have the potential to achieve ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
short-term,to the disadvantage of long-term,
environmental goals?
c. Does the project have impacts that are individually ❑ ❑ ❑ ■
limited,but cumulatively considerable?
("Cumulatively considerable"means that the
incremental effects of a project are considerable
when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects,the effects of other current projects,and
the effects of probable future projects.)
d. Does the project have environmental effects that 0 ❑ ❑ ■
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings,either directly or indirectly? -
Discussion of Checklist Answers
a. The project would not result in degradation of the quality of the environment, reduction of fish or
wildlife species, or threaten to eliminate plant or animal community because the Los Altos Hills
planning area is near build-out capacity and no threatened or endangered plant or animal community
exists in the area.
b. The project goals and policies have been planned by the Town and are intended to accommodate
long-range goals of the area.
c. The project does not have impacts that are individually limited but cumulatively significant.
d. The Circulation & Scenic Roadways Element does not have impacts that will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly.
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 • 25
•
•
DETERMINATION
Pursuant to Sections 15152 and 15168 of the State CEQA Guidelines, this initial study has been
prepared to evaluate the potential impacts of the proposed project.
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
X I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there
will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described in the initial
study. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL.IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s)on the environment,but at least one
effect 1)has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards,
and 2) has been addressed by.mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on
attached sheets, if the effect is a"potentially significant impact" or"potentially significant unless
mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,but it must analyze only the
effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,there
WILL NOT be a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have
been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been
avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR,including revisions or mitigation measures that are
imposed upon the proposed project.
k ��
l
Curtis Williams, Los Altos Hills Planning Director Date
•
•
Initial Study for the Los Altos Hills-Circulation&Scenic Roadways Element
October 1998 26