HomeMy WebLinkAbout0.0_Executive Summary_FroomRanch_DEIR EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ES-1 INTRODUCTION
JM Development Group, Inc. (Applicant) proposes the implementation of the Draft Froom
Ranch Specific Plan (FSRP), including an amendment to the City’s General Plan, pre-
zoning, annexation to the City, and related actions to allow for the development of a 116.8
acre Project site with several offsite infrastructure improvements, which collectively
comprise the Froom Ranch Specific Plan Project (Project). The Project is intended to
implement the City of San Luis Obispo’s (City’s) vision for the Project site as guided by
the City’s 2014 Land Use Element (LUE) of the General Plan. The City’s LUE specifically
identifies the Project site as a Special Focus Area and requires preparation of a specific
plan for this area to address key planning and environmental issues including: the
designation of an appropriate land use mix, the need for a variety of housing types and
levels of affordability, provision of both commercial and open space, an internal network
of public and private roads, and the implementation of a complex stormwater management
system. The Applicant proposes the adoption of the FSRP and related actions to permit a
mix of residential uses (39.1 acres), open space and a public park (61.9 acres), and retail
commercial uses (3.1 acres) within the approximately 109.7-acre Specific Plan area.
The proposed Project would allow for construction of up to 174 residential units and 404
senior independent living units as follows:
• 31.6 acres of R-3 SP medium-high density senior-living uses, with 366
independent-living units (700 to 2,000 sf in size), 38 assisted-living units (310 to
620 sf in size), and 51 beds for skilled nursing and memory care;
• 5.7 acres of R-3 SP medium-high density uses with 130 multi-family units on a
minimum lot size of 1,000 sf;
• 1.8 acres of R-4 SP high density uses with 44 multi-family units on a minimum lot
size of 1,000 sf;
The Project would also allow for up to 100,000 sf of commercial retail space, including
approximately 70,000 sf of hotel use with up to 120 rooms and 30,000 sf of retail and office
uses. The Project would retain approximately 55 percent of the Project site as open space
and include a 2.9-acre public park that connects to the existing trail network within the
adjacent Irish Hills National Reserve. The Project would include an internal network of
public and private roads with some bicycle and pedestrian access. The Project would also
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implement a complex stormwater management system, including realignment of Froom
Ranch through the Specific Plan area, relocation and expansion of an existing onsite
stormwater detention basin immediately south of the Specific Plan area, and onsite water
quality retention and treatment areas.
ES-2 PROJECT OVERVIEW
This Environmental Impact Report (EIR) evaluates the potential environmental impacts of
the proposed Project in the City of San Luis Obispo (City), California. The City prepared this
EIR with assistance from its environmental planning consultant, Wood Environment and
Infrastructure Solutions, Inc (Wood). This EIR discloses the findings of the City regarding
potential environmental impacts of adoption and implementation of the proposed Project.
The Project site consists of two parcels (APNs 067-241-030 and 067-241-031) and 7.1
acres outside the Specific Plan area, totaling 116.8 acres. The site is currently
unincorporated in San Luis Obispo County (County), but is located within the City’s
adopted Sphere of Influence immediately southwest of the City limits and adjacent to Los
Osos Valley Road (LOVR) between Calle Joaquin and Irish Hills Plaza. The City’s 2014
LUE designates the Specific Plan area (109.7 acres within the Project site) as a Special
Focus Area (SP-3) for provision of residential and small-scale commercial uses, along with
open space and/or agricultural uses. The SP-3 designation requires a specific plan to guide
development and operation within the Specific Plan area following annexation to the City,
per Section 8.1.6 of the LUE.
The Project site is primarily undeveloped and used for agriculture (horse grazing) and
stormwater management but contains historic farming structures, a construction office, and
a permitted, but inactive red rock quarry in the northwestern portion used for construction
materials storage. Froom Creek traverses the Project site in a mostly north to south
direction and joins San Luis Obispo Creek south of the Project site before flowing towards
the Pacific Ocean.
ES-3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS
This EIR examines potential short- and long-term impacts of the Project. These impacts
were determined through a rigorous process mandated by CEQA in which existing
conditions are compared and contrasted with conditions that would exist once the project
is implemented. For each impact topic, thresholds for determining impact significance are
identified based on City and State CEQA Guidelines, along with descriptions of
methodologies used for conducting the impact analysis. For some topics, such as air
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quality, traffic, and noise, the analyses of impacts are more quantitative in nature and
involve the comparison of effects against a numerical threshold. For other topics, such as
land use/planning, the analyses of impacts are inherently more qualitative, involving the
consideration of a variety of factors, such as adopted City policies.
The EIR impact discussions classify impact significance levels as:
1. Significant and Unavoidable (Class I) - a significant impact to the environment
that remains significant even after mitigation measures are applied;
2. Significant but Mitigable (Class II) - a significant impact that can be avoided or
reduced to a less than significant level with mitigation;
3. Less Than Significant (Class III)- a potential impact that would not meet or
exceed the identified thresholds of significance for the resource area;
4. No Impact (Class IV) – no impact would occur for the resource area; and
5. Beneficial (Class IV) – a positive effect on the natural or human environment
would occur.
Determinations of significance levels in the EIR are made based on impact significance
criteria and applicable CEQA Guidelines for each resource area.
ES-4 NOTICE OF PREPARATION/SCOPING
The City prepared an Initial Study (IS) for the Project in July 2017, made publicly available
through the Notice of Preparation (NOP) distribution process in July 2017. The IS found
that the Project may have potentially significant impacts to the following resources:
aesthetics, agriculture, air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, geology and
soils, greenhouse gas emissions, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water
quality, land use and planning, noise, population and housing, public services, recreation,
transportation and traffic, tribal cultural resources, and utilities (Appendix A). Pursuant to
Section 21080(d) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15064(f)(1) of the CEQA
Guidelines, if there is a fair argument supported by substantial evidence that a project may
have a significant effect on the environment, the Lead Agency shall prepare an EIR, even
when other substantial evidence has been presented that a project will not have a significant
effect. Consequently, the City has determined that the preparation of an EIR would be
required to analyze potential environmental impacts of the Project.
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In compliance with the procedural requirements of CEQA, the City performed a public
scoping process consistent with Section 15083 of the CEQA Guidelines. The public was
provided an opportunity to comment on the scope of the EIR through a NOP released on
July 10, 2017, which was distributed to federal, state, regional, and City agencies, and
neighborhood groups. The NOP comment period ran from July 10, 2017 through August
14, 2017, and a public hearing was held on July 26, 2017. During the NOP comment period,
City received 12 comment letters. Comments received during the NOP comment period
were considered during EIR preparation and are included in Appendix B.
ES-5 SUMMARY OF PROJECT IMPACTS
The significance of each impact resulting from implementation of the Project has been
determined based on impact significance criteria and applicable CEQA Guidelines for each
impact topic. Table ES-1 presents a summary of the impacts, mitigation measures, and
residual impacts from implementation of the Project. In summary, the proposed Project
would result in significant and unavoidable construction-related and long-term impacts to
aesthetics, air quality, historic resources, biological resources, wildfire risks, and long-term
transportation and traffic. The Project would also result in potential inconsistency with
several City General Plan policies.
Aesthetics and Visual Resources
Project implementation would change views of scenic resources, including hillsides, rock
outcrops, open space, and historic buildings as viewed from a State Scenic Highway and
local scenic roadway. In addition, the Project would have significant and unavoidable
impacts on the existing visual character of the site, which would be changed from a rural
to a commercial and residential setting, especially as viewed from the Irish Hills Natural
Reserve. Although the impacts to views from the Irish Hills cannot be fully attenuated,
mitigation will include following the Landscape Screening Guidelines to provide effective
screening of proposed structures as experienced from public views along LOVR and
LOVR overpass.
Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In the long-term, the projected emissions for the Project were found to be above the
established daily thresholds for operational emissions of ROG and NOx, and projected
increases in greenhouse gas emissions would result in inconsistencies with the local Clean
Air Plan planning policies due to exceedance of projected population growth, vehicle trips,
and vehicle miles traveled. Implementation of the Project and associate net increases in
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greenhouse gas emissions would also result in inconsistencies with adopted local and
statewide policies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Implementation of mitigation
measures would reduce impacts to the maximum degree possible for operational-related
air quality impacts; however, this impact would remain significant and unavoidable, even
after mitigation.
Biological Resources
The Project would have significant and unavoidable impacts on sensitive habitats (riparian,
wetland, and native grassland) identified under state and City policy. Substantial direct
and indirect adverse impacts would occur to sensitive species, federally protected wetlands,
and the movement of species along wildlife corridors. To mitigate these impacts, the
Applicant shall prepare and implement a City-approved Biological Mitigation Plan (BMP)
that identifies both construction and operational related mitigation measures for impacts to
sensitive communities and species. The BMP shall also include a Habitat Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan (HMMP) and address the movement of special-status species. Sensitive
natural communities outside of approved development footprints shall be avoided. Chorro
Creek Bog Thistle Management and the preparation of a Community Fire Protection Plan
shall also occur. However, the Project would result in the direct and indirect loss or
disturbance of sensitive species for which the avoidance, replacement, and/or mitigation is
not considered feasible.
Land Use
Implementation of the Project that would allow development above the 150-foot elevation,
and more specifically development within the environmentally sensitive Upper Terrace,
would result in potentially significant and unavoidable impacts to aesthetic and visual
resources, biological resources, and emergency access and fire hazards. After a review for
consistency with City General Plan policies, this aspect of the Project would be potentially
inconsistent with City LUCE and General Plan COSE policies that protect sensitive
biological, open space, and visual resources include protections reflected in Policy 6.4.7,
Hillside Planning Areas, which prohibits development above the 150-foot elevation within
the Irish Hills area. Impacts are therefore significant and unavoidable.
Transportation and Traffic
Impacts to traffic and transportation upon implementation of the Project would consist of
delays and/or exceedance of intersection capacities, resulting in poor levels of service for
automobiles, pedestrians and bicycle modes of transportation. More specifically, Project
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generated traffic would cause exceedance of intersection capacities at various intersections
not subject to the City’s authority or requiring completion of the Prado Road
Overpass/Interchange project. Although the Project would implement mitigation measures
and the Applicant would pay a fair share fee to offset Project contributions to this impact,
as no County or Caltrans program for improvements is currently adopted, impacts would
be significant and unavoidable.
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
3.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources
VIS-1. Project implementation would change views
of scenic resources, including hillsides, rock
outcroppings, open space, and historic buildings,
from a State Scenic Highway or local scenic
roadway.
MM VIS-1 The Draft Froom Ranch Specific Plan shall be revised to include
the following Landscape Screening Guidelines to provide effective screening
of proposed structural massing as experienced from public views along LOVR
and the LOVR Overpass. The Project landscape plan shall be prepared by a
qualified landscape architect and include the following:
1.Maximize protection of existing vegetation along the Project site
boundary to provide visual screening during Project construction and
operation.
2.Specify a plant palette and landscape plan that ensure a vegetated site
boundary of sufficient height and density to provide visual screening of
the proposed development from public views.
3.Native tree specimens and shrubs capable of reaching or exceeding the
heights of the adjacent proposed structures shall be planted along
Project site boundaries visible from public views.
4.Screening planting specimen selection and location shall emphasize the
ability to interrupt the contiguous massing of structures as experienced
from area roadways and scenic vistas. Spacing shall be sufficient to
minimize views of structures within the Project site.
5.Screening planting specimen selection shall emphasize the ability of
planting species to effectively establish and thrive over the life of the
Project, such that smaller sizes shall be considered rather than
exclusively larger box sizes. Planting establishment rates shall be
considered but shall not preclude the use of slower-growing species,
such as coast valley oak and willows.
6.Native tree specimens capable of reaching or exceeding the heights of
adjacent structures shall be planted adjacent to multi-family and
commercial structures located within the interior of the Specific Plan
area consistent with the specifications above.
7.A bond for screening landscaping and irrigation shall be provided to
ensure establishment of plantings. The bond shall be revoked upon
satisfactory establishment of screen planting vegetation according to
the plan.
Requirements and Timing. The Specific Plan Landscape Screening
Guidelines and landscape bond shall be reviewed and approved by the City
Community Development Department prior to vesting tract map recordation.
Landscape plantings, including irrigation, shall be in place prior to issuance
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
of building permits for each phase of the Project. A landscape architect
approved by the City shall provide verification of landscaping establishment
pursuant to the Screening Plan to the City’s Community Development
Department for review and approval prior to relinquishment of the bond.
Monitoring. The City Community Development Department shall review and
approve the Specific Plan Landscape Screening Guidelines. The Applicant
shall ensure that all landscape planting and irrigation are in place and shall
prepare a memo verifying condition compliance. The City Community
Development Department shall review and approve the landscaping
establishment bond letter.
VIS-2. The Project would significantly impact the
existing visual character of the site by changing a
rural setting to a commercial and residential setting,
particularly as viewed from the Irish Hills Natural
Reserve trail system.
MM VIS-1 The Draft Froom Ranch Specific Plan shall be revised to include
the following Landscape Screening Guidelines to provide effective screening
of proposed structural massing as experienced from public views along LOVR
and the LOVR Overpass. The Project landscape plan shall be prepared by a
qualified landscape architect and include the following:
1.Maximize protection of existing vegetation along the Project site
boundary to provide visual screening during Project construction and
operation.
2.Specify a plant palette and landscape plan that ensure a vegetated site
boundary of sufficient height and density to provide visual screening of
the proposed development from public views.
3.Native tree specimens and shrubs capable of reaching or exceeding the
heights of the adjacent proposed structures shall be planted along
Project site boundaries visible from public views.
4.Screening planting specimen selection and location shall emphasize the
ability to interrupt the contiguous massing of structures as experienced
from area roadways and scenic vistas. Spacing shall be sufficient to
minimize views of structures within the Project site.
5.Screening planting specimen selection shall emphasize the ability of
planting species to effectively establish and thrive over the life of the
Project, such that smaller sizes shall be considered rather than
exclusively larger box sizes. Planting establishment rates shall be
considered but shall not preclude the use of slower-growing species,
such as coast valley oak and willows.
6.Native tree specimens capable of reaching or exceeding the heights of
adjacent structures shall be planted adjacent to multi-family and
Significant and
Unavoidable
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
commercial structures located within the interior of the Specific Plan
area consistent with the specifications above.
7. A bond for screening landscaping and irrigation shall be provided to
ensure establishment of plantings. The bond shall be revoked upon
satisfactory establishment of screen planting vegetation according to
the plan.
Requirements and Timing. The Specific Plan Landscape Screening
Guidelines and landscape bond shall be reviewed and approved by the City
Community Development Department prior to vesting tract map recordation.
Landscape plantings, including irrigation, shall be in place prior to issuance
of building permits for each phase of the Project. A landscape architect
approved by the City shall provide verification of landscaping establishment
pursuant to the Screening Plan to the City’s Community Development
Department for review and approval prior to relinquishment of the bond.
Monitoring. The City Community Development Department shall review
and approve the Specific Plan Landscape Screening Guidelines. The
Applicant shall ensure that all landscape planting and irrigation are in place
and shall prepare a memo verifying condition compliance. The City
Community Development Department shall review and approve the
landscaping establishment bond letter.
VIS-3. The Project would introduce a new source of
nighttime light, impacting the quality of the
nighttime sky and increasing ambient light.
None required. Less than Significant
3.2 Agricultural Resources
AG-1. The Project would convert onsite Farmland of
Local Potential and prime soils if irrigated to non-
agricultural uses.
None required. Less than Significant
AG-2. Implementation of the Project would create
potential conflicts with existing agricultural zoning.
None required. Less than Significant
AG-3. The Project would adjust the boundary of an
existing open space and agricultural conservation
easement to a location that would reduce the viability
of agricultural operations within the recorded
easement.
None required. Less than Significant
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
3.3 Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
AQ-1. The Project would result in potentially
significant construction-related emissions, including
dust and air pollutant emissions.
MM AQ-1 A Construction Activity Management Plan (CAMP) shall be
included as part of Project grading and building plans and shall be submitted
to SLO County APCD and to the City for review and approval prior to the
start of construction. The plan shall include but not be limited to the following
elements:
1. A Dust Control Management Plan that encompasses the following dust
control measures:
• Reduce the amount of disturbed area where possible;
• Water trucks or sprinkler trucks shall be used during construction
to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust
from leaving the site and from exceeding the APCD’s limit of 20
percent opacity for greater than 3 minutes in any 60-minute
period. At a minimum, this would require twice-daily applications.
Increased watering frequency would be required when wind
speeds exceed 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water or the
onsite water well (non-potable) shall be used when possible. The
contractor or builder shall consider the use of a SLO County
APCD-approved dust suppressant where feasible to reduce the
amount of water used for dust control;
• All dirt stock-pile areas shall be sprayed daily as needed;
• Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved
Project revegetation and landscape plans of any development
within the Specific Plan area should be implemented as soon as
possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities;
• Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates
greater than one month after initial grading shall be sown with a
fast germinating native grass seed and watered until vegetation is
established;
• All disturbed soil areas not subject to revegetation shall be
stabilized using approved chemical soil binders, jute netting, or
other methods approved in advance by SLO County APCD;
• All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc. to be paved should be
completed as soon as possible. In addition, building pads should
be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil
binders are used;
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph
on any unpaved surface at the construction site;
• All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to
be covered or shall maintain at least 2 feet of freeboard in
accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 23114;
• Designate access points and require all employees,
subconsultants, and others to use them. Install and operate a
“track-out prevention device” where vehicles enter and exit
unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device
can be any device or combination of devices that are effective at
preventing track-out, located at the point of intersection of any
unpaved area and a paved road. If utilized, rumble strips or steel
plate devices shall be cleaned periodically. If paved roadways
accumulate tracked-out soils, the track-out prevention device shall
be modified or replaced to prevent track-out;
• Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is
carried onto adjacent paved roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed
water should be used where feasible;
• All of these fugitive dust mitigation measures shall be shown on
grading and building plans; and
• The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to
monitor the fugitive dust control emissions and enhance the
implementation of the measures as necessary to minimize dust
complaints, reduce visible emissions below 20 percent opacity, and
to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include
holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress.
The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided
to SLO County APCD Compliance Division prior to the start of
any grading, earthwork or demolition.
2. Implementation of the following BACT for diesel-fueled construction
equipment. The BACT measures shall include:
• Use of at least Tier 3 off-road equipment and 2010 on-road
compliant engines;
• Repowering equipment with the cleanest engines available; and
• Installing California Verified Diesel Emission Control Strategies.
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
3. Implementation of the following standard air quality measures to
minimize diesel emissions:
• Maintain all construction equipment in proper tune according to
manufacturer’s specifications;
• Fuel all off-road and portable diesel-powered equipment with
CARB-certified motor vehicle diesel fuel (non-taxed version
suitable for use off-road).
• Use on-road heavy-duty trucks that meet the CARB’s 2007 or
cleaner certification standard for on-road heavy-duty diesel
engines and comply with the State On-Road Regulation;
• Construction or trucking companies with fleets that do not have
engines in their fleet that meet the engine standards identified in
the above two measures (e.g. captive or NOx exempt area fleets)
may be eligible by proving alternative compliance;
• On- and off-road diesel equipment shall not be allowed to idle for
more than five minutes. Signs shall be posted in the designated
queuing areas to remind drivers and operators of the five-minute
idling limit;
• Diesel idling within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors is not
permitted;
• Staging and queing areas shall not be loated within 1,000 feet of
sensitive receptors;
• Electrify equipment when feasible;
• Substitute gasoline-powered in place of diesel-powered
equipment, where feasible; and,
• Use alternatively fueled construction equipment onsite where
feasible, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural
gas (LNG), propane or biodiesel.
4. Tabulation of on- and off-road construction equipment (age, horse-
power, and miles and/or hours of operation);
5. Schedule construction truck trips during non-peak hours (as
determined by the Public Works Director) to reduce peak hour
emissions; and
6. Limit the length of the construction work-day period to 8 hours max.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The CAMP shall be submitted to SLO
County APCD and to the City for review and approval prior to issuance of
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
grading and construction permits and recordation of the final VTM. All
required fugitive dust and emissions control measures shall be noted on all
grading and building plans and all construction activities shall adhere to
measures throughout all grading, hauling, and construction activities. The
contractor or builder shall provide the City Community Development Director
and SLO County APCD with the name and contact information for an
assigned onsite dust and emissions control monitor(s) who has the
responsibility to: a) assure all dust control requirements are complied with
including those covering weekends and holidays, b) order increased watering
as necessary to prevent transport of dust offsite, and c) attend the pre-
construction meeting. The dust monitor shall be designated prior to grading
permit issuance for each Project phase. The dust control components apply
from the beginning of any grading or construction throughout all development
activities until occupancy is issued and landscaping is successfully installed.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are depicted on the CAMP and
all submitted grading and construction plans for each Project phase. The
Applicant shall be responsible for compliance during construction activities,
including holidays or weekends when work may not be in progress. City
grading and building inspectors shall spot check and ensure compliance
onsite.
MM AQ-2 To reduce ROG and NOx levels during the architectural coating
phase, low or no Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)-emission paint shall be
used with levels of 50 grams per liter (g/L) or less (Odorless, Zero VOC
Paint). The schedule for architectural coatings application shall be extended,
limiting the daily coating activity to a level determined acceptable by SLO
County APCD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall verify the measures
through written documentation submitted to the City and SLO County APCD
for review and approval. Measures shall be indicated on all building and
construction plans and submitted to SLO County APCD and to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of building permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. City shall verify measures with the Applicant and SLO County
APCD. City staff shall ensure measures are depicted on all building and
construction plans. City building inspectors shall perform site inspections to
ensure compliance.
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
MM AQ-3 An offsite mitigation strategy shall be developed and agreed upon
by the Applicant, City, and SLO County APCD at least three months prior to
the issuance of grading permits. Offsite mitigation strategies may be in the
form of cash payment, circulation improvements above the Project’s fair
share, or funding for ongoing transit improvements. The Applicant shall
provide appropriate funding necessary to offset the Project’s residual
construction-related ROG+NOx emissions beyond SLO County APCD’s daily
threshold at least two months prior to the start of construction to help
facilitate emission offsets that are as real-time as possible. Cash payment of
offsite mitigation fees shall be calculated based on the most current ARB-
approved Carl Moyer Guidelines at the time of commencement of each
Project phase. Offsite mitigation strategies shall include one or more of the
following:
• Develop or improve park-and-ride lots;
• Fund a program to buy and scrap older, higher emission passenger and
heavy-duty vehicles;
• Retrofit or repower heavy-duty construction equipment, or on-road
vehicles;
• Subsidize vanpool programs;
• Contribute to funding of new bike lanes;
• Replace/repower San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority
(SLORTA) transit buses;
• Purchase Verified Diesel Emission Control Strategies (VDECS) for
transit buses or construction fleets; and
• Fund expansion of existing SLORTA transit services.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit the
offsite mitigation strategy to SLO County APCD for review and to the City
for approval at least three months prior to the issuance of grading permits for
Phase 1 construction. The Applicant shall provide any necessary funding to
SLO County APCD at least two months prior to the start of construction.
Monitoring. SLO County APCD and City staff shall ensure offsite mitigation
measures are appropriate. If the Applicant elects to pay mitigation fees, SLO
County APCD shall verify the receipt of funding to the City. If the Applicant
elects to provide improvements, proposed improvements shall be approved by
the City and SLO County APCD prior to implementation. City and SLO
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
County APCD staff shall monitor proposed improvements to ensure
compliance.
AQ-2. The Project would result in potentially
significant long-term operational emissions.
MM AQ-4 Consistent with standard mitigation measures set forth by SLO
County APCD, Projects generating more than 50 lbs/day of combined ROG
+ NOx shall implement all feasible measures within Table 3-5 of the Air
Quality Handbook. The following mitigation measures shall apply to the
Project (Table 3.3-9).
Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall include the mitigation
measures in Table 3-5 of the 2012 SLO County APCD CEQA Air Quality
Handbook (as amended by the 2017 Clarification Memorandum), as indicated
in the column “How the Project Will Include This Measure” in Table 3.3-9,
above. All feasible standard mitigation measures shall be included in the
FRSP prior to approval of the final FRSP and these measures shall also be
included on the final VTM prior to recordation. City staff shall ensure the
above measures are incorporated into the FRSP, final VTM, and building
plans prior to permit issuance.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are listed on final plans
submitted for review and approval by the City. City staff shall work with the
Applicant to ensure that these strategies are implemented. The City shall
conduct periodic site visits to ensure compliance, in consultation with the SLO
County APCD.
Significant and
Unavoidable
AQ-3. Release of toxic diesel emissions or naturally
occurring asbestos during construction of the Project
could expose sensitive receptors to emissions-related
health risks.
None Required. Less than Significant
AQ-4. The Project would be consistent with the
City’s Climate Action Plan, but would result in
potentially significant GHG emissions during
construction and operation which would be
inconsistent with other state and local goals for
reducing GHG emissions.
MM AQ-5 The Applicant shall revise the Draft FRSP to include measures
necessary to reduce Project operational stationary-source GHG emissions to
achieve net zero emissions, consistent with the City’s 2035 net-zero GHG
emissions target. These measures shall include Best Available Mitigation
strategies for reducing operational emissions, including but not limited to the
following:
• Electrical power for the entirety of Project operations including but not
limited to illumination, heating, cooling, and ventilation shall be
provided by alternative or carbon-free energy sources according to the
following priority: 1) on-grid power with 100-percent renewable or
carbon-free source (a planned product of Monterey Bay Community
Significant and
Unavoidable
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-15
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Power available to the City in 2020), or 2) a combination of grid power
and on site renewable generation to achieve annual zero net electrical
energy usage, or 3) purchase of carbon offsets of any portion of power
not from renewable or carbon-free sources. As a first priority, carbon-
free sourced energy shall be purchased from Monterey Bay Community
Power.
• For new buildings, onsite solar photovoltaic systems shall be required,
and retrofitted buildings shall be encouraged to install onsite solar
photovoltaic systems to offset energy demand, regardless of building
size.
• All proposed commercial and health care facilities shall exceed the
minimum standards of Title 24, Part 11 (Cal Green) by adopting all or
some elements of Cal Green Tier 1 and 2 voluntary elective measures
to increase energy efficiency in new buildings, remodels and additions.
These measures shall prioritize upgrading lighting (e.g., using light-
emitting diode [LED] lights), heating and cooling systems, appliances,
equipment and control systems to be more energy efficient.
Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall include the above measure
in the Final FRSP prior to approval and shall include the above measure on
the final VTM prior to recordation. Plans submitted for building permits shall
incorporate Best Management Strategies, and for the selected Best
Management Strategies, the Applicant shall work with City and SLO County
APCD staff to calculate estimated stationary-source emissions to ensure
achievement of net-zero stationary source operational emissions for the
Project. City and SLO County APCD staff shall ensure the above measures
are incorporated into the FRSP, final VTM, and building plans prior to permit
issuance.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are listed on final plans
submitted for review and approval by the City. City and SLO County APCD
staff shall work with the Applicant to ensure that these strategies are
implemented. The City shall verify compliance in consultation with the SLO
County APCD.
MM AQ-6 The Applicant shall revise the FRSP to include measures necessary
to reduce the Project’s operational, mobile-source emissions, and VMT to the
maximum extent feasible, including, but not limited to the following:
• Rideshare and Employee Ridership Programs: The FRSP shall be
amended to include measures for encouraging and incentivizing
ES-16 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
residents and employees of the proposed development participate in the
San Luis Obispo Regional Rideshare program.
• Senior Shuttle Service: Villaggio shall provide clean fuel shuttle
services or coordinate with existing shuttle services such as Dial-A-
Ride and the Senior Go! Shuttle to provide curb-to-curb shuttle service
for residents of the Villaggio Life Community Plan.
• All Electric Small Vehicles: The FRSP shall require all personal small
vehicles (e.g., golf carts) be 100 percent electric powered.
• Car Share: Provide car-sharing opportunities within the Villaggio Life
Community Plan and Madonna Froom Ranch areas.
• Promote Carpools, Vanpools, and Electric Vehicle (EV) Vehicles:
Provide dedicated parking for carpools, vanpools, and high-efficiency
vehicles in exceedance of Cal Green Tier 2 standards.
• Offsite EV Improvements: Work with SLO County APCD to expand or
fund the expansion of EV charging stations throughout the City.
Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall include all feasible Best
Management Strategies as part of the final FRSP and final VTM. For the
selected Best Management Strategies, the Applicant shall work with City and
SLO County APCD staff to calculate estimated mobile-source emissions to
ensure emissions are reduced to the maximum extent feasible. City and SLO
County APCD staff shall ensure the above measures are incorporated into the
FRSP and final VTM prior to recordation.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are listed on the final VTM
submitted for review and approval by the City. City and SLO County APCD
staff shall work with the Applicant to ensure that these strategies are
implemented. The City shall verify compliance in consultation with the SLO
County APCD.
AQ-5. The Project is potentially inconsistent with the
SLO County APCD’s Clean Air Plan.
MM AQ-2 To reduce ROG and NOx levels during the architectural coating
phase, low or no Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)-emission paint shall be
used with levels of 50 grams per liter (g/L) or less (Odorless, Zero VOC
Paint). The schedule for architectural coatings application shall be extended,
limiting the daily coating activity to a level determined acceptable by SLO
County APCD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall verify the measures
through written documentation submitted to the City and SLO County APCD
for review and approval. Measures shall be indicated on all building and
construction plans and submitted to SLO County APCD and to the City for
Significant and
Unavoidable
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-17
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
review and approval prior to issuance of building permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. City shall verify measures with the Applicant and SLO County
APCD. City staff shall ensure measures are depicted on all building and
construction plans. City building inspectors shall perform site inspections to
ensure compliance.
MM TRANS-5 The Project Applicant shall extend the westbound bike lane
on Tank Farm Road approaching the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection to the intersection and install a bike box to facilitate bicycle left-
turn movements. If improvements are constructed sooner by others, the
Applicant may be responsible for a fair share contribution towards
improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development. If
improvements are completed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for a fair share contribution prior to issuance of building permits
for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-8 The Project Applicant shall design and install Class IV
bikeways (protected bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer
between the sidewalk and vehicular traffic lanes. Improvement extents shall
occur in the northbound direction between Laguna Lane and Diablo Drive,
and in the southbound direction between Diablo Drive and Madonna Road.
Project is responsible for fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements.
ES-18 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-9 The Project Applicant shall design and install ADA-compliant
curb, gutter and sidewalk along the west side of LOVR to complete the
sidewalk connection between the Irish Hills Plaza and Calle Joaquin. The
Project Applicant shall also design and install Class IV bikeways (protected
bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer between the sidewalk and
vehicular traffic lanes in the northbound and southbound directions between
Madonna Road and South Higuera Street. The Project is responsible for all
costs related to construction of sidewalks, curb and gutter, and a fair share
contribution towards Class IV bikeway improvements. This mitigation
measure requires Caltrans approval and coordination for improvements near
LOVR/U.S. 101 interchange.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Bikeway improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may
be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-10 The Project Applicant shall design and install a Class I
Multi-Use Path parallel to Madonna Road between Oceanaire Drive and the
U.S. 101 southbound ramps intersection. The Project is responsible for a fair
share contribution towards improvements through payment of City Traffic
Impact Fees.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements. If improvements are completed sooner by
others, the Applicant shall make a fair share contribution through participation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-19
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program prior to issuance of
building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
3.4 Biological Resources
BIO-1. Project implementation would impact
sensitive riparian, wetland, and native grassland
habitats identified as sensitive natural communities
under state and City policy.
MM HAZ-2 In accordance with PRC Section 4291, the Applicant shall hire
a City-qualified team that consists of appropriate specialists (i.e., fire
management professionals, biologists) to prepare a Community Fire
Protection Plan to design the creation and maintenance of required fire
buffers and fuel management zones around developable areas and detail
methods for achieving fire safety around new buildings while preserving the
integrity and function of affected native plant communities to the maximum
extent feasible, and that ensures that consistent fire fuel management
practices are applied throughout the City. The Plan shall incorporate
management strategies in coordination with adjacent property owners,
including Mountainbrook Church and the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. The
Plan shall outline the removal and control of invasive, non-native vegetation,
and conservation of sensitive habitats and rare species, while developing fire
fuel management practices that will discourage or prevent non-native grasses
and other non-native invasive species from dominating surrounding areas.
Landscaping shall be maintained by the Applicant and periodically inspected
by the SLOFD during fire inspections in each of the fuel management zones
to avoid the buildup of deadwood and leaf litter, which, if left to accumulate,
would reduce the mitigating effect of the Plan. Specifically, the Plan shall
include, but not be limited to, the following elements:
• Vegetation coverage and type;
• Setbacks between structures, sensitive wildlife species, and access
routes;
• Development plan landscaping and planting standards within the
setback areas;
• Native trees and shrubs, such as coast live oak, coastal scrub, and
grassland shall be thinned and limbed up but left in place;
• All allowable weed abatement techniques, qualifications, and
requirements for weed abatement contractors, as well as measures and
techniques that ensure the required fuel management and vegetation
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-20 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
clearance, shall be designed and implemented to provide adequate
structure protection and avoid degradation of sensitive biological
habitat; and
• Invasive species shall be removed and controlled.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to approval of the final development
plan, the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be prepared and submitted to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD for review and approval,
with coordination from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department. The
Plan shall be implemented consistent with the approved maintenance
schedule.
Monitoring. The City-qualified biologist shall submit a monitoring report to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD at the end of the first year
following Project occupancy documenting the fuel management activities that
took place. Conformance with the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be
demonstrated through the submittal of annual photo documentation by the
Applicant or site visits as necessary at the discretion of the Compliance
monitoring staff.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-21
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
ES-22 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-23
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
MM BIO-2 The Applicant shall retain a qualified Environmental
Coordinator/qualified biologist, subject to review and approval by the City to
oversee compliance with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all construction
activities, conduct a biological resources education program for all
construction workers prior to the initiation of any clearing or construction
activities, and provide quarterly reports to the City regarding construction
activities, enforcement issues, and remedial measures. The Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator shall be responsible for conducting inspections
of the work area each work day to ensure that excavation areas and sensitive
or restored habitats do not exhibit construction-related impacts or hazards to
wildlife. If any exposure risk is identified, the Environmental Coordinator
shall implement measures that could include, but not be limited to, hazing,
fencing, and wildlife removals to eliminate the exposure risk.
In addition, the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor and
regulate all construction occurring within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, other existing or proposed drainage features, riparian
habitat, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4, and seasonal or permanent wetlands.
During appropriate flowering, nesting, breeding, migration, and dispersal
seasons, the Environmental Coordinator shall also conduct sensitive species
surveys immediately prior to construction activities and shall monitor
construction activities in the vicinity of habitats to be avoided.
The work area boundaries and other off-limit areas shall be identified by the
biologist and/or Environmental Coordinator on a daily basis. The biologist
and/or Environmental Coordinator shall inspect construction and sediment
control fencing each work day during construction activities. Any vegetation
clearing activities shall be monitored by the biologist and/or Environmental
Coordinator.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The City shall approve the Applicant’s
qualified Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist prior to issuance of
grading and building permits for each phase of construction. The
Environmental Coordinator shall be present onsite to monitor construction
activities pursuant to the approved Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan.
Monitoring. The Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all grading and
construction activities occurring within the vicinity of sensitive habitats or
known location of sensitive species, shall conduct regular site inspections
ES-24 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
throughout the entire site, and shall be responsible for compliance of the
construction activities and the above BMPs within MM BIO-1 and MM BIO-
3 through MM BIO-8. During construction, the Environmental Coordinator
shall submit quarterly monitoring reports to the City to ensure compliance
with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and applicable laws,
regulations, and policies. The Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist
shall be onsite during all construction activities which take place within 50
feet of sensitive creek, wetland, and riparian habitat areas.
MM BIO-3 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include a
Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) with details on timing and
implementation of required habitat restoration, enhancement, or creation
measures. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP shall
be prepared under the direction of, and approved by, the City’s Natural
Resources Manager in conjunction with regulatory agencies with permitting
authority over the Project. The HMMP shall contain, at a minimum, the
following components (or as otherwise modified by regulatory agency
permitting conditions):
a) Pre-construction surveys and delineation of vegetation communities,
habitat, and wetland features, including clear maps and a summary of
onsite habitats to be protected and acreage, design, and locations of
required habitat mitigation sites.
b) A description of the location and boundaries of the mitigation site and
description of existing site conditions.
c) A description of measures to be undertaken to enhance the mitigation
site for the target species and to protect sensitive resources.
d) Record necessary replacement of disturbed, altered, and/or lost area
of habitat.
e) A binding long-term agreement with the Applicant to implement and
maintain protected and restored sensitive habitats, including native
bunch grassland, wetlands, springs, seeps, tributary drainages, and
other sensitive or restored native habitats. These measures shall
identify typical performance and success criteria deemed acceptable by
the City and CDFW based on measurable goals and objectives. Said
criteria for restored habitats shall be, at a minimum, at least 70-percent
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-25
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
f) A description of habitat and species restoration and monitoring
measures, including specific and objective performance criteria,
monitoring methods, data analysis, reporting requirements, and
monitoring schedule. (At a minimum, success criteria shall be at least
70-percent survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover
by vegetation type and will include a replacement ratio of 2:1 and
determination by a City-approved biologist that the mitigation site
provides ecological functions and values for the focal species equal to
or exceeding the impacted habitat.)
g) Plan requirements that ensure mitigation elements that do not meet
performance or final success criteria within 5 years are completed
through an extension of the plan for an additional 2 years or at the
discretion of the City Natural Resources Manager with the goal of
completing all mitigation requirements prior to the HMMP end date.
h) Monitoring of the mitigation and maintenance areas shall occur for the
period established in the HMMP, or until success criteria are met; an
endowment may be required in some cases as determined by the City.
If success criteria cannot be met through the HMMP, the City Natural
Resources Manager shall specify appropriate commensurate measures
(e.g., onsite or offsite restoration, endowment, or bond to the City for
completion of necessary mitigation).
i) A binding long-term agreement with the Villaggio Life Plan
Community to fund and retain a qualified biologist to train all
landscaping crew staff hired over the life of the development on
sensitive plant species and habitat within the vicinity of the
development, including the identification and avoidance of sensitive
plants and habitat. The qualified biologist shall conduct annual
monitoring of vegetation surrounding the development and prepare a
report summarizing the avoidance or disturbance of sensitive resources
from operational activities of the Villaggio development, and
identifying necessary replacement or restoration of affected resources.
Necessary mitigation shall be subject to the same standards for
performance, monitoring, and success identified in subitems b through
h, above. The report shall be submitted to the City annually for review
and approval.
ES-26 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
j) A plan for fencing and/or signage around the Upper Terrace of the
Villaggio development, prohibiting residents, guests, and employees
from accessing and disturbing the surrounding sensitive resources.
k) Requirements for payment of annual fees to the City to fund City review
and inspection of the site and Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP requirements.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through
frequent monitoring and inspection. The Environmental Coordinator shall
also ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring and inspection of restoration activities.
MM BIO-4 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require
avoidance of sensitive natural communities outside approved development
footprints such as the Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance, Central Coast
Arroyo Willow Scrub Community, Coastal and Central Valley Freshwater
Marsh, and wetland areas to the maximum extent feasible. Mitigation for
impacted sensitive natural communities that cannot be avoided shall be
achieved through one or more of the following options, subject to City
approval:
a) Onsite restoration, enhancement, or creation of suitable replacement
habitat, if feasible onsite restoration opportunities exist and at ratios
consistent with those identified in MM BIO-5;
b) Offsite restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted
species at the minimum replacement ratio of 2:1 for sensitive natural
communities, native grasslands, and riparian habitat;
c) Financial contribution to an in-lieu fee program that results in
restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted natural
communities and/or species; and/or
d) Purchase of mitigation credits at a USFWS- and/or CDFW-approved
mitigation bank.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-27
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the BMMP and HMMP to
ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures have been included.
The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities pursuant to the approved
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP. The City shall ensure
compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP through receipt and review of monitoring reports, and site
inspections.
MM BIO-5 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require all
temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands, grasslands, and riparian
habitat be mitigated, as follows:
a) Temporary wetland, native grassland, and riparian habitat impacts
shall be mitigated at a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio (area of restored
habitat to impacted habitat).
b) Permanent impacts to sensitive natural communities, native
grasslands, and riparian habitat shall be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio (area
of restored and enhanced habitat to impacted habitat).
c) Permanent direct impacts to wetlands shall be mitigated at a minimum
3:1 ratio unless otherwise directed by state and federal agencies,
including but not limited to the CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and USFWS.
d) Potential indirect impacts to the Calle Joaquin wetlands affected by the
Froom Creek realignment and changes to site hydrology shall be
mitigated at a minimum 2:1 ratio and require mitigation of at least
10.24 acres. For the purpose of this mitigation, the area of the Calle
Joaquin wetlands potentially affected by the Project include those
wetlands northwest of Calle Joaquin within the Specific Plan area and
southeast of the proposed Froom Creek low-flow channel.
e) Habitat revegetation or creation shall occur in the fall or winter no
more than 1 year following habitat disturbance. Revegetation shall be
monitored monthly for 7 years with a goal of at least 70-percent
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type at the end of the 7-year period. Irrigation shall be provided during
ES-28 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
this period or until otherwise determined necessary by the Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator.
f) Riparian vegetation along Froom Creek shall be maintained in
perpetuity to the satisfaction of the City by the Applicant or a City-
approved designee. Froom Creek conditions shall be monitored
annually following winter storm seasons to assess damage to riparian
vegetation and need for maintenance restoration. Monitoring and
maintenance of riparian vegetation conditions shall be conducted
consistent with the requirements of the Habitat Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan outlined in MM BIO-3.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring, inspection, and reporting of restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through receipt of monitoring
reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-6 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall detail
timing and implementation of required habitat restoration and shall be
submitted to the City’s Natural Resources Manager for review and approval,
including requirements for consultation with CDFW, NMFS, and USACE as
needed. A copy of the final plan shall be submitted to the City for review and
approval. The plan shall be implemented by the Project Applicant, under
supervision by the City and the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator, and
shall:
a) Describe replacement of sensitive natural community habitats
removed, lost, or adversely impacted by the Project, including a list of
the soil, plants, and other materials that will be necessary for successful
habitat restoration/ replacement, and a description of planting
methods, location, spacing, erosion protection, and irrigation
measures that will be needed. Restoration and habitat enhancement
shall be limited to use of appropriate native species. Habitat
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-29
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
restoration or enhancement areas shall be designed to facilitate
establishment of appropriate native plants such as willows,
cottonwoods, bunchgrass, and rushes.
b) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be established within
the Project boundaries, adjacent to and contiguous with existing
habitats to the maximum extent possible.
c) Habitat restoration or enhancement sites shall be placed within
existing or additional necessary deed-restricted area(s) and shall be
maintained and monitored for a minimum of 7 years. If sufficient onsite
mitigation area is not practicable, an offsite mitigation plan shall be
prepared as part of the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and
approved by permitting agencies.
d) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall identify
appropriate restoration and enhancement activities to compensate for
impacts to creek, wetland, native bunch grass and riparian habitat,
including a detailed planting plan and maintenance plans using locally
obtained native species, and shall include habitat enhancement to
support native wildlife and plant species.
e) A weed management plan and weed identification list shall be included
in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.
f) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be maintained weekly
for the first three years after Project completion and quarterly
thereafter. Maintenance shall include replacement of unsuccessful
planted specimens and eradication of noxious weeds found on
California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Lists A and B.
Noxious weeds on CDFA List C may be eradicated or otherwise
managed.
g) Quarterly and annual reports documenting site inspections and site
recovery status shall be prepared and sent to the City and appropriate
agencies.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
ES-30 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP through receipt of
monitoring reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-7 All utility lines proposed to be installed across the realigned
Froom Creek from LOVR to the Project site shall be installed via horizontal
directional drilling (HDD) to avoid impacts to sensitive habitats. Prior to
installation of utility lines, a site-specific geotechnical investigation and frac-
out clean-up plan shall be completed in areas proposed for HDD. The
geotechnical investigation shall provide recommendations for avoidance of
frac-outs and/or other HDD related impacts and to determine appropriate
HDD methods (i.e., appropriate drilling mud mixtures for specific types of
sediments). The investigation shall include results from at least three borings,
a geologic cross-section, a discussion of drilling conditions, and frac-out
clean-up plan. The frac-out clean-up plan shall identify methods for
minimizing potential for frac-outs and addressing any necessary clean-up or
remediation in case of a frac-out. The boring operation would be stopped
immediately if a frac-out occurs and steps would be taken to contain and
minimize the effects of any spill of drilling mud. The Applicant shall comply
with all recommendations of the geotechnical investigation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Geotechnical investigations shall be
conducted, and a report of findings submitted to the City for approval. The
findings shall be incorporated into the final Utilities Plan prior to issuance of
grading permits and recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review the findings of the geotechnical
investigations and final Utilities Plan and confirm compliance through review
of grading and improvement plans.
MM BIO-8 The Applicant shall submit a Froom Creek restoration plan that
identifies measures for securing the proposed low-flow channel berm along
the stretch of Froom Creek proposed adjacent to the Calle Joaquin wetlands
to protect the bank from erosion and prevent migration of the Froom Creek
channel into these wetlands. Measures for securing the bank may include a
mix of natural and biotechnical measures capable of prevention erosion based
on the anticipated erosive velocity of the creek under 100-year storm
conditions.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit a Froom Creek
restoration plan for review and approval by the City, which incorporates these
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-31
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
requirements in addition to all requirements identified by state and federal
resource agencies. The proposed bank stabilization measures shall be depicted
on final plans prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final
VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review the final plans, and shall inspect the
Project site during construction to confirm installation of proposed
stabilization measures.
BIO-2. Project implementation would have
substantial direct and indirect adverse impacts on
candidate, sensitive, or special-status species that are
known to or may occur on the Project site.
MM HAZ-2 In accordance with PRC Section 4291, the Applicant shall hire a
City-qualified team that consists of appropriate specialists (i.e., fire
management professionals, biologists) to prepare a Community Fire
Protection Plan to design the creation and maintenance of required fire
buffers and fuel management zones around developable areas and detail
methods for achieving fire safety around new buildings while preserving the
integrity and function of affected native plant communities to the maximum
extent feasible, and that ensures that consistent fire fuel management
practices are applied throughout the City. The Plan shall incorporate
management strategies in coordination with adjacent property owners,
including Mountainbrook Church and the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. The
Plan shall outline the removal and control of invasive, non-native vegetation,
and conservation of sensitive habitats and rare species, while developing fire
fuel management practices that will discourage or prevent non-native grasses
and other non-native invasive species from dominating surrounding areas.
Landscaping shall be maintained by the Applicant and periodically inspected
by the SLOFD during fire inspections in each of the fuel management zones
to avoid the buildup of deadwood and leaf litter, which, if left to accumulate,
would reduce the mitigating effect of the Plan. Specifically, the Plan shall
include, but not be limited to, the following elements:
• Vegetation coverage and type;
• Setbacks between structures, sensitive wildlife species, and access
routes;
• Development plan landscaping and planting standards within the
setback areas;
• Native trees and shrubs, such as coast live oak, coastal scrub, and
grassland shall be thinned and limbed up but left in place;
• All allowable weed abatement techniques, qualifications, and
requirements for weed abatement contractors, as well as measures and
techniques that ensure the required fuel management and vegetation
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-32 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
clearance, shall be designed and implemented to provide adequate
structure protection and avoid degradation of sensitive biological
habitat; and
• Invasive species shall be removed and controlled.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to approval of the final development
plan, the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be prepared and submitted to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD for review and approval,
with coordination from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department. The
Plan shall be implemented consistent with the approved maintenance
schedule.
Monitoring. The City-qualified biologist shall submit a monitoring report to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD at the end of the first year
following Project occupancy documenting the fuel management activities that
took place. Conformance with the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be
demonstrated through the submittal of annual photo documentation by the
Applicant or site visits as necessary at the discretion of the Compliance
monitoring staff.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-33
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
ES-34 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-35
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
MM BIO-9 Construction and grading of the realigned portion of Froom
Creek, including planting of riparian vegetation, watering, and bank
stabilization, shall be conducted prior to removal of the existing creek
segment to ensure a habitat for special-status species within the creek is
maintained through the Project site with no interruption during construction.
Project phasing shall be adjusted as needed to accommodate this sequence of
construction activities.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall demonstrate phasing
and creek restoration within the final VTM, and the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan. The Applicant shall submit the plan to the City for review
and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final
VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan, and final VTM for compliance. The Applicant’s Environmental
Coordinator shall monitor creek realignment activities to ensure compliance
with this mitigation measure.
MM BIO-10 Chorro Creek Bog Thistle Management. Prior to issuance of
grading and building permits, the Applicant shall submit or fund a site survey
for Chorro Creek bog thistle, and:
1. All individual locations of Chorro Creek bog thistle shall be mapped
using GPS coordinates. No construction activities or disturbance shall
occur within 50 feet of mapped Chorro Creek bog thistle. This setback
shall be delineated and maintained with construction fencing and clear
signage for the duration of grading and construction. If the site survey
results identify Chorro Creek bog thistle that may be disturbed or lost
from Project construction, the Project shall be redesigned to ensure a
minimum 50 foot buffer from mapped Chorro Creek bog thistle
occurrences.
2. Development adjacent to Drainages 1, 2, and 3 shall be set back a
minimum of 50 feet from the top of the bank of these drainages and the
edge of delineated associated wetlands.
3. Drainages 1, 2, and 3 and associated wetlands shall be fenced a
minimum of 50 feet from the top of the bank or edge of delineated
wetland. The Applicant shall ensure and demonstrate to the City
through frequent reporting requirements approved by the City that
these areas are managed and maintained in perpetuity to maintain
wetland and Chorro Creek bog thistle habitat values.
ES-36 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM BIO-11 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
special-status wildlife species management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the rainy season (typically October 15 to April 15) to the
extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, and other existing or proposed drainage features,
riparian or wetland habitat, and any suitable nesting sites as determined by
the City-approved biologist. Injury, mortality to, or significant disturbance of
onsite sensitive species, including the California red-legged frog, south-
central California coast steelhead, and white-tailed kite, shall be avoided. The
plan shall include the following measures: pre-construction surveys; worker
awareness; cessation of work in occupied areas if individuals are identified;
relocation (if necessary) of frogs and steelhead from the work area by a
professional biologist authorized by the USFWS and/or CDFW; and
monitoring of construction activities within the vicinity of sensitive habitats
by a qualified biologist during construction, consistent with MM BIO-2.
Necessary permits shall be obtained from the state (CDFW) and federal
(USACE and USFWS) regulatory agencies with jurisdiction and/or permitting
authority over a portion of the Project. Any other sensitive species observed
during the pre-construction surveys shall be relocated by the qualified
biologist into the nearest suitable habitat outside the disturbance area as
determined in consultation with the appropriate jurisdictional resource
agency.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-37
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM BIO-12 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
the movement of special-status species, as follows:
1. Migratory and Nesting Bird Management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the breeding season (typically from February 15
to August 15) to the extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of
riparian or wetland habitat and mature trees. If Project activities must
be conducted during this period and within the vicinity of riparian or
wetland habitat and/or mature trees, pre-construction nesting bird
surveys shall take place no more than one week prior to habitat
disturbance associated with each phase; if active nests are located
during these surveys, the following measures shall be implemented:
a. Construction activities within 50 feet of active nests shall be
restricted until chicks have fledged, unless the nest belongs to a
raptor, in which case a 500-foot activity restriction buffer shall be
observed.
b. Construction shall be limited to daylight hours (7:00 AM to 7:00
PM or sunset, whichever is sooner).
c. A pre-construction survey report shall be submitted to the City
immediately upon completion of the survey. The report shall detail
appropriate fencing or flagging of the buffer zone and make
recommendations on additional monitoring requirements. A map
of the Project site and nest locations shall be included with the
report. If any sensitive species are observed during pre-
construction surveys, the Project biologist shall coordinate with
appropriate resource agencies to determine appropriate
procedure for handling or avoidance of the specimen.
d. The Project biologist conducting the nesting survey shall have the
authority to reduce or increase the recommended buffer
depending upon site conditions and the species involved. A report
of findings and recommendations for bird protection shall be
submitted to the City prior to vegetation removal. If sensitive
ES-38 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
species are observed during pre-construction surveys, the Project
biologist shall coordinate with appropriate resource agencies to
determine appropriate procedures for handling or avoidance of
the specimen.
2. Bat Colony Management. Prior to removal of any trees over 20 inches
diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) or demolition/relocation of existing
onsite structures, a survey shall be conducted by a City and CDFW-
approved biologist to determine if any tree or structure proposed for
removal, trimming, demolition, or relocation harbors sensitive bat
species or maternal bat colonies. Maternal bat colonies shall not be
disturbed, and grading and construction activities shall avoid the bat
breeding season to the extent feasible. If disturbance of structures must
occur during the bat breeding season, buildings must be inspected and
deemed clear of bat colonies/roosts within 7 days of demolition and an
appropriately trained and approved biologist must conduct a daily site-
clearance during demolition. If bats are roosting in a structure or tree
in the Project site during the daytime but are not part of an active
maternity colony, then exclusion measures shall be utilized and must
include one-way valves that allow bats to leave but are designed so that
the bats may not re-enter the structure. For each occupied roost
removed, one bat box shall be installed in similar habitat as determined
by the Project biologist and shall have similar cavities or crevices to
those which are removed, including access, ventilation, dimensions,
height above ground, and thermal conditions. If a bat colony would be
eliminated from the Project site, appropriate alternate bat habitat shall
be installed within the Project site. To the extent practicable, alternate
bat house installation shall occur near onsite drainages.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall include a management plan for migrating and nesting birds and bat
colonies and shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to
issuance of grading and construction permits and recordation of the final
VTM. Construction shall be conducted between August 16 and February 14
unless pre-construction surveys are completed. Reports summarizing pre-
construction species surveys (i.e., nesting, bat surveys, etc.) shall be submitted
to the City within 10 days of survey completion. Construction work shall not
commence until after the completion of surveys and City review of
corresponding reports. Any required permits shall be obtained from
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-39
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
appropriate state and federal agencies prior to issuance of grading and
construction permits and recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that appropriate requirements have
been included to address potential impacts to bird and bat species. The City
shall ensure compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan. The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also
ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
BIO-3. Project implementation would have a
substantial adverse impact on state and federally
protected wetlands.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-40 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-41
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
MM BIO-2 The Applicant shall retain a qualified Environmental
Coordinator/qualified biologist, subject to review and approval by the City to
oversee compliance with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all construction
activities, conduct a biological resources education program for all
construction workers prior to the initiation of any clearing or construction
activities, and provide quarterly reports to the City regarding construction
activities, enforcement issues, and remedial measures. The Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator shall be responsible for conducting inspections
ES-42 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
of the work area each work day to ensure that excavation areas and sensitive
or restored habitats do not exhibit construction-related impacts or hazards to
wildlife. If any exposure risk is identified, the Environmental Coordinator
shall implement measures that could include, but not be limited to, hazing,
fencing, and wildlife removals to eliminate the exposure risk.
In addition, the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor and
regulate all construction occurring within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, other existing or proposed drainage features, riparian
habitat, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4, and seasonal or permanent wetlands.
During appropriate flowering, nesting, breeding, migration, and dispersal
seasons, the Environmental Coordinator shall also conduct sensitive species
surveys immediately prior to construction activities and shall monitor
construction activities in the vicinity of habitats to be avoided.
The work area boundaries and other off-limit areas shall be identified by the
biologist and/or Environmental Coordinator on a daily basis. The biologist
and/or Environmental Coordinator shall inspect construction and sediment
control fencing each work day during construction activities. Any vegetation
clearing activities shall be monitored by the biologist and/or Environmental
Coordinator.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The City shall approve the Applicant’s
qualified Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist prior to issuance of
grading and building permits for each phase of construction. The
Environmental Coordinator shall be present onsite to monitor construction
activities pursuant to the approved Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan.
Monitoring. The Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all grading and
construction activities occurring within the vicinity of sensitive habitats or
known location of sensitive species, shall conduct regular site inspections
throughout the entire site, and shall be responsible for compliance of the
construction activities and the above BMPs within MM BIO-1 and MM BIO-
3 through MM BIO-8. During construction, the Environmental Coordinator
shall submit quarterly monitoring reports to the City to ensure compliance
with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and applicable laws,
regulations, and policies. The Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist
shall be onsite during all construction activities which take place within 50
feet of sensitive creek, wetland, and riparian habitat areas.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-43
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
MM BIO-4 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require
avoidance of sensitive natural communities outside approved development
footprints such as the Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance, Central Coast
Arroyo Willow Scrub Community, Coastal and Central Valley Freshwater
Marsh, and wetland areas to the maximum extent feasible. Mitigation for
impacted sensitive natural communities that cannot be avoided shall be
achieved through one or more of the following options, subject to City
approval:
a) Onsite restoration, enhancement, or creation of suitable replacement
habitat, if feasible onsite restoration opportunities exist and at ratios
consistent with those identified in MM BIO-5;
b) Offsite restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted
species at the minimum replacement ratio of 2:1 for sensitive natural
communities, native grasslands, and riparian habitat;
c) Financial contribution to an in-lieu fee program that results in
restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted natural
communities and/or species; and/or
d) Purchase of mitigation credits at a USFWS- and/or CDFW-approved
mitigation bank.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the BMMP and HMMP to
ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures have been included.
The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities pursuant to the approved
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP. The City shall ensure
compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP through receipt and review of monitoring reports, and site
inspections.
MM BIO-5 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require all
temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands, grasslands, and riparian
habitat be mitigated, as follows:
ES-44 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
a) Temporary wetland, native grassland, and riparian habitat impacts
shall be mitigated at a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio (area of restored
habitat to impacted habitat).
b) Permanent impacts to sensitive natural communities, native
grasslands, and riparian habitat shall be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio (area
of restored and enhanced habitat to impacted habitat).
c) Permanent direct impacts to wetlands shall be mitigated at a minimum
3:1 ratio unless otherwise directed by state and federal agencies,
including but not limited to the CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and USFWS.
d) Potential indirect impacts to the Calle Joaquin wetlands affected by the
Froom Creek realignment and changes to site hydrology shall be
mitigated at a minimum 2:1 ratio and require mitigation of at least
10.24 acres. For the purpose of this mitigation, the area of the Calle
Joaquin wetlands potentially affected by the Project include those
wetlands northwest of Calle Joaquin within the Specific Plan area and
southeast of the proposed Froom Creek low-flow channel.
e) Habitat revegetation or creation shall occur in the fall or winter no
more than 1 year following habitat disturbance. Revegetation shall be
monitored monthly for 7 years with a goal of at least 70-percent
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type at the end of the 7-year period. Irrigation shall be provided during
this period or until otherwise determined necessary by the Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator.
f) Riparian vegetation along Froom Creek shall be maintained in
perpetuity to the satisfaction of the City by the Applicant or a City-
approved designee. Froom Creek conditions shall be monitored
annually following winter storm seasons to assess damage to riparian
vegetation and need for maintenance restoration. Monitoring and
maintenance of riparian vegetation conditions shall be conducted
consistent with the requirements of the Habitat Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan outlined in MM BIO-3.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-45
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring, inspection, and reporting of restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through receipt of monitoring
reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-6 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall detail
timing and implementation of required habitat restoration and shall be
submitted to the City’s Natural Resources Manager for review and approval,
including requirements for consultation with CDFW, NMFS, and USACE as
needed. A copy of the final plan shall be submitted to the City for review and
approval. The plan shall be implemented by the Project Applicant, under
supervision by the City and the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator, and
shall:
a) Describe replacement of sensitive natural community habitats
removed, lost, or adversely impacted by the Project, including a list of
the soil, plants, and other materials that will be necessary for successful
habitat restoration/ replacement, and a description of planting
methods, location, spacing, erosion protection, and irrigation
measures that will be needed. Restoration and habitat enhancement
shall be limited to use of appropriate native species. Habitat
restoration or enhancement areas shall be designed to facilitate
establishment of appropriate native plants such as willows,
cottonwoods, bunchgrass, and rushes.
b) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be established within
the Project boundaries, adjacent to and contiguous with existing
habitats to the maximum extent possible.
c) Habitat restoration or enhancement sites shall be placed within
existing or additional necessary deed-restricted area(s) and shall be
maintained and monitored for a minimum of 7 years. If sufficient onsite
mitigation area is not practicable, an offsite mitigation plan shall be
prepared as part of the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and
approved by permitting agencies.
d) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall identify
appropriate restoration and enhancement activities to compensate for
impacts to creek, wetland, native bunch grass and riparian habitat,
including a detailed planting plan and maintenance plans using locally
ES-46 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
obtained native species, and shall include habitat enhancement to
support native wildlife and plant species.
e) A weed management plan and weed identification list shall be included
in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.
f) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be maintained weekly
for the first three years after Project completion and quarterly
thereafter. Maintenance shall include replacement of unsuccessful
planted specimens and eradication of noxious weeds found on
California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Lists A and B.
Noxious weeds on CDFA List C may be eradicated or otherwise
managed.
g) Quarterly and annual reports documenting site inspections and site
recovery status shall be prepared and sent to the City and appropriate
agencies.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP through receipt of
monitoring reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-7 All utility lines proposed to be installed across the realigned
Froom Creek from LOVR to the Project site shall be installed via horizontal
directional drilling (HDD) to avoid impacts to sensitive habitats. Prior to
installation of utility lines, a site-specific geotechnical investigation and frac-
out clean-up plan shall be completed in areas proposed for HDD. The
geotechnical investigation shall provide recommendations for avoidance of
frac-outs and/or other HDD related impacts and to determine appropriate
HDD methods (i.e., appropriate drilling mud mixtures for specific types of
sediments). The investigation shall include results from at least three borings,
a geologic cross-section, a discussion of drilling conditions, and frac-out
clean-up plan. The frac-out clean-up plan shall identify methods for
minimizing potential for frac-outs and addressing any necessary clean-up or
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-47
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
remediation in case of a frac-out. The boring operation would be stopped
immediately if a frac-out occurs and steps would be taken to contain and
minimize the effects of any spill of drilling mud. The Applicant shall comply
with all recommendations of the geotechnical investigation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Geotechnical investigations shall be
conducted, and a report of findings submitted to the City for approval. The
findings shall be incorporated into the final Utilities Plan prior to issuance of
grading permits and recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review the findings of the geotechnical
investigations and final Utilities Plan and confirm compliance through review
of grading and improvement plans.
BIO-4. Project construction and operation would
have a substantial adverse impact on the movement
of resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or
resident and migratory wildlife corridors along
Froom Creek, Drainages 1, 2, and 3 and across open
grasslands on the Upper Terrace of the Project site.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-48 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-49
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
MM BIO-2 The Applicant shall retain a qualified Environmental
Coordinator/qualified biologist, subject to review and approval by the City to
oversee compliance with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all construction
activities, conduct a biological resources education program for all
construction workers prior to the initiation of any clearing or construction
ES-50 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
activities, and provide quarterly reports to the City regarding construction
activities, enforcement issues, and remedial measures. The Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator shall be responsible for conducting inspections
of the work area each work day to ensure that excavation areas and sensitive
or restored habitats do not exhibit construction-related impacts or hazards to
wildlife. If any exposure risk is identified, the Environmental Coordinator
shall implement measures that could include, but not be limited to, hazing,
fencing, and wildlife removals to eliminate the exposure risk.
In addition, the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor and
regulate all construction occurring within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, other existing or proposed drainage features, riparian
habitat, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4, and seasonal or permanent wetlands.
During appropriate flowering, nesting, breeding, migration, and dispersal
seasons, the Environmental Coordinator shall also conduct sensitive species
surveys immediately prior to construction activities and shall monitor
construction activities in the vicinity of habitats to be avoided.
The work area boundaries and other off-limit areas shall be identified by the
biologist and/or Environmental Coordinator on a daily basis. The biologist
and/or Environmental Coordinator shall inspect construction and sediment
control fencing each work day during construction activities. Any vegetation
clearing activities shall be monitored by the biologist and/or Environmental
Coordinator.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The City shall approve the Applicant’s
qualified Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist prior to issuance of
grading and building permits for each phase of construction. The
Environmental Coordinator shall be present onsite to monitor construction
activities pursuant to the approved Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan.
Monitoring. The Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all grading and
construction activities occurring within the vicinity of sensitive habitats or
known location of sensitive species, shall conduct regular site inspections
throughout the entire site, and shall be responsible for compliance of the
construction activities and the above BMPs within MM BIO-1 and MM BIO-
3 through MM BIO-8. During construction, the Environmental Coordinator
shall submit quarterly monitoring reports to the City to ensure compliance
with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and applicable laws,
regulations, and policies. The Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-51
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
shall be onsite during all construction activities which take place within 50
feet of sensitive creek, wetland, and riparian habitat areas.
MM BIO-4 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require
avoidance of sensitive natural communities outside approved development
footprints such as the Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance, Central Coast
Arroyo Willow Scrub Community, Coastal and Central Valley Freshwater
Marsh, and wetland areas to the maximum extent feasible. Mitigation for
impacted sensitive natural communities that cannot be avoided shall be
achieved through one or more of the following options, subject to City
approval:
a) Onsite restoration, enhancement, or creation of suitable replacement
habitat, if feasible onsite restoration opportunities exist and at ratios
consistent with those identified in MM BIO-5;
b) Offsite restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted
species at the minimum replacement ratio of 2:1 for sensitive natural
communities, native grasslands, and riparian habitat;
c) Financial contribution to an in-lieu fee program that results in
restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted natural
communities and/or species; and/or
d) Purchase of mitigation credits at a USFWS- and/or CDFW-approved
mitigation bank.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the BMMP and HMMP to
ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures have been included.
The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities pursuant to the approved
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP. The City shall ensure
compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP through receipt and review of monitoring reports, and site
inspections.
MM BIO-5 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require all
temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands, grasslands, and riparian
habitat be mitigated, as follows:
ES-52 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
a) Temporary wetland, native grassland, and riparian habitat impacts
shall be mitigated at a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio (area of restored
habitat to impacted habitat).
b) Permanent impacts to sensitive natural communities, native
grasslands, and riparian habitat shall be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio (area
of restored and enhanced habitat to impacted habitat).
c) Permanent direct impacts to wetlands shall be mitigated at a minimum
3:1 ratio unless otherwise directed by state and federal agencies,
including but not limited to the CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and USFWS.
d) Potential indirect impacts to the Calle Joaquin wetlands affected by the
Froom Creek realignment and changes to site hydrology shall be
mitigated at a minimum 2:1 ratio and require mitigation of at least
10.24 acres. For the purpose of this mitigation, the area of the Calle
Joaquin wetlands potentially affected by the Project include those
wetlands northwest of Calle Joaquin within the Specific Plan area and
southeast of the proposed Froom Creek low-flow channel.
e) Habitat revegetation or creation shall occur in the fall or winter no
more than 1 year following habitat disturbance. Revegetation shall be
monitored monthly for 7 years with a goal of at least 70-percent
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type at the end of the 7-year period. Irrigation shall be provided during
this period or until otherwise determined necessary by the Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator.
f) Riparian vegetation along Froom Creek shall be maintained in
perpetuity to the satisfaction of the City by the Applicant or a City-
approved designee. Froom Creek conditions shall be monitored
annually following winter storm seasons to assess damage to riparian
vegetation and need for maintenance restoration. Monitoring and
maintenance of riparian vegetation conditions shall be conducted
consistent with the requirements of the Habitat Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan outlined in MM BIO-3.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-53
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring, inspection, and reporting of restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through receipt of monitoring
reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-6 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall detail
timing and implementation of required habitat restoration and shall be
submitted to the City’s Natural Resources Manager for review and approval,
including requirements for consultation with CDFW, NMFS, and USACE as
needed. A copy of the final plan shall be submitted to the City for review and
approval. The plan shall be implemented by the Project Applicant, under
supervision by the City and the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator, and
shall:
a) Describe replacement of sensitive natural community habitats
removed, lost, or adversely impacted by the Project, including a list of
the soil, plants, and other materials that will be necessary for successful
habitat restoration/ replacement, and a description of planting
methods, location, spacing, erosion protection, and irrigation
measures that will be needed. Restoration and habitat enhancement
shall be limited to use of appropriate native species. Habitat
restoration or enhancement areas shall be designed to facilitate
establishment of appropriate native plants such as willows,
cottonwoods, bunchgrass, and rushes.
b) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be established within
the Project boundaries, adjacent to and contiguous with existing
habitats to the maximum extent possible.
c) Habitat restoration or enhancement sites shall be placed within
existing or additional necessary deed-restricted area(s) and shall be
maintained and monitored for a minimum of 7 years. If sufficient onsite
mitigation area is not practicable, an offsite mitigation plan shall be
prepared as part of the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and
approved by permitting agencies.
d) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall identify
appropriate restoration and enhancement activities to compensate for
impacts to creek, wetland, native bunch grass and riparian habitat,
including a detailed planting plan and maintenance plans using locally
ES-54 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
obtained native species, and shall include habitat enhancement to
support native wildlife and plant species.
e) A weed management plan and weed identification list shall be included
in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.
f) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be maintained weekly
for the first three years after Project completion and quarterly
thereafter. Maintenance shall include replacement of unsuccessful
planted specimens and eradication of noxious weeds found on
California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Lists A and B.
Noxious weeds on CDFA List C may be eradicated or otherwise
managed.
g) Quarterly and annual reports documenting site inspections and site
recovery status shall be prepared and sent to the City and appropriate
agencies.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP through receipt of
monitoring reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-9 Construction and grading of the realigned portion of Froom
Creek, including planting of riparian vegetation, watering, and bank
stabilization, shall be conducted prior to removal of the existing creek
segment to ensure a habitat for special-status species within the creek is
maintained through the Project site with no interruption during construction.
Project phasing shall be adjusted as needed to accommodate this sequence of
construction activities.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall demonstrate phasing
and creek restoration within the final VTM, and the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan. The Applicant shall submit the plan to the City for review
and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final
VTM.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-55
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The City shall review the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan, and final VTM for compliance. The Applicant’s Environmental
Coordinator shall monitor creek realignment activities to ensure compliance
with this mitigation measure.
MM BIO-11 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
special-status wildlife species management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the rainy season (typically October 15 to April 15) to the
extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, and other existing or proposed drainage features,
riparian or wetland habitat, and any suitable nesting sites as determined by
the City-approved biologist. Injury, mortality to, or significant disturbance of
onsite sensitive species, including the California red-legged frog, south-
central California coast steelhead, and white-tailed kite, shall be avoided. The
plan shall include the following measures: pre-construction surveys; worker
awareness; cessation of work in occupied areas if individuals are identified;
relocation (if necessary) of frogs and steelhead from the work area by a
professional biologist authorized by the USFWS and/or CDFW; and
monitoring of construction activities within the vicinity of sensitive habitats
by a qualified biologist during construction, consistent with MM BIO-2.
Necessary permits shall be obtained from the state (CDFW) and federal
(USACE and USFWS) regulatory agencies with jurisdiction and/or permitting
authority over a portion of the Project. Any other sensitive species observed
during the pre-construction surveys shall be relocated by the qualified
biologist into the nearest suitable habitat outside the disturbance area as
determined in consultation with the appropriate jurisdictional resource
agency.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
ES-56 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
MM BIO-12 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
the movement of special-status species, as follows:
1. Migratory and Nesting Bird Management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the breeding season (typically from February 15
to August 15) to the extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of
riparian or wetland habitat and mature trees. If Project activities must
be conducted during this period and within the vicinity of riparian or
wetland habitat and/or mature trees, pre-construction nesting bird
surveys shall take place no more than one week prior to habitat
disturbance associated with each phase; if active nests are located
during these surveys, the following measures shall be implemented:
a. Construction activities within 50 feet of active nests shall be
restricted until chicks have fledged, unless the nest belongs to a
raptor, in which case a 500-foot activity restriction buffer shall be
observed.
b. Construction shall be limited to daylight hours (7:00 AM to 7:00
PM or sunset, whichever is sooner).
c. A pre-construction survey report shall be submitted to the City
immediately upon completion of the survey. The report shall detail
appropriate fencing or flagging of the buffer zone and make
recommendations on additional monitoring requirements. A map
of the Project site and nest locations shall be included with the
report. If any sensitive species are observed during pre-
construction surveys, the Project biologist shall coordinate with
appropriate resource agencies to determine appropriate
procedure for handling or avoidance of the specimen.
d. The Project biologist conducting the nesting survey shall have the
authority to reduce or increase the recommended buffer
depending upon site conditions and the species involved. A report
of findings and recommendations for bird protection shall be
submitted to the City prior to vegetation removal. If sensitive
species are observed during pre-construction surveys, the Project
biologist shall coordinate with appropriate resource agencies to
determine appropriate procedures for handling or avoidance of
the specimen.
2. Bat Colony Management. Prior to removal of any trees over 20 inches
diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) or demolition/relocation of existing
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-57
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
onsite structures, a survey shall be conducted by a City and CDFW-
approved biologist to determine if any tree or structure proposed for
removal, trimming, demolition, or relocation harbors sensitive bat
species or maternal bat colonies. Maternal bat colonies shall not be
disturbed, and grading and construction activities shall avoid the bat
breeding season to the extent feasible. If disturbance of structures must
occur during the bat breeding season, buildings must be inspected and
deemed clear of bat colonies/roosts within 7 days of demolition and an
appropriately trained and approved biologist must conduct a daily site-
clearance during demolition. If bats are roosting in a structure or tree
in the Project site during the daytime but are not part of an active
maternity colony, then exclusion measures shall be utilized and must
include one-way valves that allow bats to leave but are designed so that
the bats may not re-enter the structure. For each occupied roost
removed, one bat box shall be installed in similar habitat as determined
by the Project biologist and shall have similar cavities or crevices to
those which are removed, including access, ventilation, dimensions,
height above ground, and thermal conditions. If a bat colony would be
eliminated from the Project site, appropriate alternate bat habitat shall
be installed within the Project site. To the extent practicable, alternate
bat house installation shall occur near onsite drainages.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall include a management plan for migrating and nesting birds and bat
colonies and shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to
issuance of grading and construction permits and recordation of the final
VTM. Construction shall be conducted between August 16 and February 14
unless pre-construction surveys are completed. Reports summarizing pre-
construction species surveys (i.e., nesting, bat surveys, etc.) shall be submitted
to the City within 10 days of survey completion. Construction work shall not
commence until after the completion of surveys and City review of
corresponding reports. Any required permits shall be obtained from
appropriate state and federal agencies prior to issuance of grading and
construction permits and recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that appropriate requirements have
been included to address potential impacts to bird and bat species. The City
shall ensure compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and
ES-58 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring Plan. The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also
ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM BIO-13 The Applicant shall amend the FRSP to establish a 300-foot
development buffer on the centerline of the confluence of Drainage 1, 2, and
3 and the realigned Froom Creek to maintain natural vegetation, ecological,
hydrologic, and wildlife connectivity between the Irish Hills Natural Reserve
and the Froom Creek corridor. The required buffer shall extend from the point
at which the proposed realigned Froom Creek exits the Specific Plan area,
upstream along the centerlines of Drainages 1, 2, and 3 for 600 linear feet.
The Applicant shall relocate residential uses to areas outside of this buffer
and should not exacerbate biological resource impacts in other areas of the
site.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The above requirements shall be integrated
into the Final FRSP and final VTM prior to recordation. City staff shall ensure
the above measures are incorporated into building plans prior to issuance.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
Final FRSP prior to Project approval.
MM BIO-14 Proposed roadway/pathway crossings over any drainage shall
be designed to ensure adequate passage for wildlife, consistent with the design
standards and guidelines of the Federal Highway Administration Wildlife
Crossing Structure Handbook.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The above requirements shall be integrated
into the Final FRSP. City staff shall ensure the above measures are
incorporated into the improvement plans prior to approval.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
Final FRSP prior to Project approval.
BIO-5. Project construction would result in the
potential disturbance, trimming, or removal of up to
75 mature trees.
MM BIO-15 Native Tree Protection. To ensure protection of native protected
trees with respect to the tree trunk, canopy, and root zone, the Applicant shall
hire a City-approved arborist or qualified biologist to conduct a daily, pre-
construction survey of all activities occurring within the protected root zones
of protected trees, and shall make recommendations for avoidance, and for
any necessary remedial work to ensure the health and safety of trees that are
encroached, and any measures necessary to reduce and/or remove potential
safety hazards posed by any of these trees. Following construction, the health
of affected trees shall be monitored by the arborist or qualified biologist for
up to 5 years if necessary and as determined at the discretion of the City.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-59
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Should Project activities result in the compromised health of native trees
resulting from encroachment, the Applicant shall submit a native tree
replacement planting program, prepared by a qualified biologist, arborist, or
other resource specialist, which specifies replacement tree locations, tree or
seedling size, planting specifications, and a monitoring program to ensure
that the replacement planting program is successful, including performance
standards for determining whether replacement trees are healthy and growing
normally, and procedures for periodic monitoring and implementation of
corrective measures in the event that the health of replacement trees declines.
Where the worsened health of a tree results in the loss of protected tree
species, mitigation measures in the native tree replacement program shall
include the planting of replacement trees on the Project site, if suitable area
exists. Riparian trees 4 inches or greater measured at DBH shall be replaced
in-kind at a minimum ratio of 3:1 (replaced: removed). Trees 24 inches or
greater inches DBH shall be replaced in-kind at a minimum ratio of 10:1.
Willows and cottonwoods may be planted from live stakes following
guidelines provided in the California Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration
Manual for planting dormant cuttings and container stock (CDFW 2010).
• Tree replacement shall be conducted in accordance with a Natural
Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Plan to be approved by the
City’s Natural Resources Manager.
• The Natural Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Plan shall
prioritize the planting of replacement trees on-site where feasible, but
shall allow that replacement trees may be planted off-site with approval
of the City’s Natural Resources Manager.
• Replacement trees may be planted in the fall or winter of the year in
which trees were removed. All replacement trees will be planted no
more than 1 year following the date upon which the native trees were
removed.
Where onsite mitigation through planting replacement trees is not feasible,
mitigation shall be provided by one of the following methods:
• Off-site mitigation shall be provided by planting no less than 10:1, at a
suitable site that is restricted from development or is public parkland.
The Applicant shall plant seedlings – less than 1-year old – in an area
providing suitable habitat. In the case of oak trees, the seedlings shall
be grown from acorns collected in the area; or
ES-60 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• An in-lieu fee shall be provided for the unavoidable impacts of the loss
of native tree habitat. The fee shall be based on the type, size and age
of the tree(s) removed.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on final
grading plans. The qualified biologist shall monitor for the health of trees
during and following construction activities, for a period of up to 5 years if
determined necessary by the City.
Monitoring. The qualified biologist shall monitor all construction activities,
and if necessary, periodically monitor the placement and planting program.
City staff shall monitor for the health of affected individuals to determine
compliance and potential need for further mitigation.
3.5 Cultural and Tribal Resources Impacts
CR-1. Project grading and construction would occur
within areas of prehistoric archaeological sensitivity
with the potential to impact subsurface cultural or
tribal cultural resources.
MM CR-1 A Phase 2 – Subsurface Archaeological Resource Evaluation
(SARE) investigation shall be conducted prior to any grading or development
proposed within 200 feet of the recorded P-40-000783 and P-40-001195 sites,
or the unrecorded site comprising three mapped stone isolates, to evaluate the
potential for unknown buried resources within these “archaeologically
sensitive” areas, including but not limited to stone, bone, glass, ceramics,
fossils, wood, or shell artifacts, or features including hearths, structural
remains, or historic dumpsites, consistent with City Archeological Resource
Preservation Program Guidelines. If discovery of unknown buried
archaeological resources occurs through the SARE, a City-approved
archaeologist shall evaluate the significance of the discovery pursuant to City
Archaeological Resource Preservation Program Guidelines and CEQA. If the
discovery is found to be a significant cultural resource, Project design shall
be modified to avoid modification, disturbance, or destruction of the
archeological resource. If the Phase 2 SARE investigations do not discover
unknown buried archaeological resources but conclude there is a possibility
that cultural resources exist within the archaeologically sensitive areas that
were evaluated, the Community Development Department Director shall
require that the Applicant retain a City-approved archaeologist and local
Native American observer to monitor construction activities to identify and
protect archaeological resources in accordance with the Archaeological
Monitoring Plan described in MM CR-3.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-61
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Any required Phase 2 SARE investigations
shall be conducted by a City-approved archaeologist prior to approval of the
VTM or Project entitlements.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the Phase 2 SARE investigations are
completed by a City-approved archaeologist and consistent with City
Archeological Resource Preservation Program Guidelines. Any potential
modifications to the Project design shall be reviewed and approved by the City
prior to approval of any subdivision map or other entitlement.
MM CR-2 If any ground disturbing activities are proposed within 100 feet of
the recorded sites P-40-000783, P-40-0011195, or the unrecorded site
comprising three mapped stone isolates, on preparation of construction plans,
the plans shall delineate a 50-foot buffer surrounding the boundaries of the
recorded sites. The area shall be labeled as an “Environmentally Sensitive
Area”. Highly visible temporary construction fencing shall be installed along
the boundary of the 50-foot buffer and shall remain in place until the
archaeological monitor recommends removal. If feasible, no ground
disturbance, construction worker foot traffic, storage of materials, or storage
or use of equipment shall occur within the “Environmentally Sensitive Area”.
Archaeological monitoring shall occur during all construction activities
occurring within 50 feet of the delineated boundary. Upon completion of
archaeological monitoring, an archaeological monitoring report shall be
prepared and submitted to the City Community Development Department and
the Central Coast Information Center at the University of California Santa
Barbara.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to recordation of the final VTM and
issuance of grading permits, plans shall incorporate the delineation of the
“Environmentally Sensitive Area” and associated protection measures.
Monitoring. The City shall verity that required elements are shown on the
final VTM and grading permits. Compliance shall be verified pursuant to the
approved Archaeological Monitoring Plan.
MM CR-3 Prior to issuance of grading or building permits, and recordation
of the final map, an Archaeological Monitoring Plan (AMP) shall be
prepared. The AMP should include, but not be limited to, the following:
• A list of personnel involved in the monitoring activities;
• Description of Native American involvement;
• Description of how the monitoring shall occur;
ES-62 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Description of location and frequency of monitoring (e.g., full time,
part time, spot checking);
• Description of what resources are expected to be encountered;
• Description of circumstances that would result in the halting of work
at the project site;
• Description of procedures for halting work on the site and notification
procedures;
• Description of monitoring reporting procedures; and
• Provide specific, detailed protocols for what to do in the event of the
discovery of human remains.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The AMP shall be prepared by a City-
approved archaeologist prior to issuance of grading or building permits and
recordation of the final map.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the AMP is prepared by a City-approved
archaeologist and consistent with City Archeological Resource Preservation
Program Guidelines.
MM CR-4 The Applicant shall retain a City-approved archaeologist and local
Native American observer to monitor Project-related ground-disturbing
activities that have the potential to encounter previously unidentified
archaeological resources, as outlined in the AMP prepared to satisfy MM CR-
1. Archaeological and tribal monitoring may cease only if the City-approved
archaeologist determines in coordination with the Applicant, Community
Development Director, and the Native American monitor that Project
activities do not have the potential to encounter and/or disturb unknown
resources.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The conditions for monitoring and
treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all building and grading plans.
Prior to issuance of building and grading permits for each phase of the Project,
the Applicant shall submit to the City a contract or Letter of Commitment with
a qualified archaeologist and Native American monitor. The City shall review
and approve the selected archaeologist to ensure they meet appropriate
professional qualification standards, consistent with the City’s Archeological
Resource Preservation Guidelines.
Monitoring. City permit compliance staff shall confirm monitoring by the
archaeologist and tribal representative and City grading inspectors shall spot
check fieldwork. The Native American monitor and Project archaeologist
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-63
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
shall ensure that actions consistent with this mitigation measure are
implemented in the event of any inadvertent discovery.
MM CR-5 In the event of any inadvertent discovery of prehistoric
archaeological resources, including but not limited to stone, bone, glass,
ceramics, fossils, wood, or shell artifacts, or historic-period archaeological
resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall immediately cease
(or greater or lesser distance as needed to protect the discovery and
determined in the field by the City-approved archaeologist). The Applicant
and/or contractor shall immediately notify the City Community Development
Department. The City-approved archaeologist shall evaluate the significance
of the discovery pursuant to City Archaeological Resource Preservation
Program Guidelines prior to resuming any activities that could impact the
site/discovery. If the City-approved archaeologist or Native American
monitor determine that the find may qualify for listing in the CRHR or as a
tribal cultural resource, the site shall be avoided or shall be subject to a Phase
II or III mitigation program consistent with City Archeological Resource
Preservation Program Guidelines and funded by the Applicant. Work shall
not resume until authorization is received from the City.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The conditions for monitoring and
treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all building and grading plans.
Prior to issuance of building and grading permits for each phase of the Project,
the Applicant shall submit to the City a contract or Letter of Commitment with
identified Project archaeologist and Native American monitor. The City shall
review and approve the selected archaeologist to ensure they meet appropriate
professional qualification standards, consistent with the Archeological
Resource Preservation Program Guidelines.
Monitoring. City permit compliance staff shall confirm monitoring by the
archaeologist and tribal representative and City grading inspectors shall spot
check fieldwork. The Native American monitor and Project archaeologist
shall ensure that actions consistent with this mitigation measure are
implemented in the event of any inadvertent discovery.
MM CR-6 Prior to construction of each phase, workers shall receive
education regarding the recognition of possible buried cultural remains and
protection of all cultural resources, including prehistoric and historic
resources, during construction. Such training shall provide construction
personnel with direction regarding the procedures to be followed in the
unlikely event that previously unidentified archaeological materials,
ES-64 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
including Native American burials, are discovered during construction.
Training shall also inform construction personnel that unauthorized
collection or disturbance of artifacts or other cultural materials is not
allowed. The training shall be prepared by a City-approved archaeologist and
shall provide a description of the cultural resources that may be encountered
in the Project site, specify areas of known sensitivity, outline steps to follow
in the event that a discovery is made, and provide contact information for the
City-approved archaeologist, Native American monitor, and appropriate City
personnel. The training shall be conducted concurrent with other
environmental or safety awareness and education programs for the Project,
provided that the program elements pertaining to archaeological resources is
provided by a qualified instructor meeting applicable professional standards.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to ground disturbance for each phase,
construction workers shall participate in an educational program that will
enable them to recognize and report possible buried cultural remains and
protect all cultural resources, including prehistoric and historic resources. The
educational program shall be outlined within the Archaeological Monitoring
Plan and submitted to the City for approval prior to issuance of grading
permits for each phase.
Monitoring. The City-approved archaeologist shall verify the training has
been completed by all construction workers and shall ensure construction
workers follow cultural resource discovery protocols.
MM CR-7 If human remains are exposed during construction, the City
Community Development Department shall be notified immediately. The
Applicant and City shall comply with State Health and Safety Code Section
7050.5, which states that no further disturbance shall occur until the County
Coroner has been notified and can make the necessary findings as to origin
and disposition of the remains pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98.
Construction shall halt around the discovery of human remains, the area shall
be protected, and consultation and treatment shall occur as prescribed by law.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The conditions for monitoring and
treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all building and grading plans and
reflected in the AMP.
Monitoring. City permit compliance staff shall confirm monitoring by the
City-approved archaeologist and tribal representative and City grading
inspectors shall spot check fieldwork. The Native American monitor and City-
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-65
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
approved archaeologist shall ensure that actions consistent with this
mitigation measure are implemented in the event of any inadvertent discovery.
CR-2. Future resident recreational activities could
impact archaeological resources located within
proposed open space.
MM CR-8 No designated recreational areas, facilities, pedestrian paths, or
roadways shall be located with 50 feet of a known prehistoric or tribal
cultural resource site. All archaeological site soils within 100 feet of a known
prehistoric or tribal cultural site shall be seeded with shallow rooted
vegetation unless existing natural vegetation (i.e., existing grasslands) can
screen the cultural resource from view.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Draft FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate these measures as they apply to P-40-000783 or P-40-001195 and
the unrecorded site, prior to adoption of the Final FRSP.
Monitoring. A City-qualified archaeologist shall review and approve the
established buffer between Project development and known cultural resource
sites and review vegetation seeding covering the archaeological site
boundaries prior to issuance of occupancy.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation.
CR-3. The Project would result in relocation,
demolition, disturbance, and/or removal of historic
resources onsite, including individually eligible
historic resources and a historic district.
MM CR-9 The Applicant shall retain a qualified professional historic
architect meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications
Standards (36 CFR Part 61) to review and comment on design and
construction drawings and monitor construction to ensure conformance with
the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. The role of the historic architect
shall include collaboration on a range of items relating to materials selection,
construction methods, design of exterior and interior alterations, and
monitoring of construction activities. The historic architect and Applicant
shall resolve any unforeseen circumstance in a manner that conforms with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
a) The qualified professional historic architect shall work with the
Applicant team to ensure:
b) Deteriorated historic features would be repaired to the greatest extent
feasible. Where features are deteriorated beyond repair, they would be
replaced to exactly match the old.
c) All character-defining features are retained.
d) Physical treatments to historic material would use the gentlest means
possible and would not damage material.
e) Reconstruction would be clearly identified as a contemporary re-
creation.
f) Interpretative signage would clearly provide information regarding the
history of the buildings and their reconstruction.
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-66 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Artifacts, features, and other materials recovered through this process shall
be described, illustrated, and analyzed fully in a technical report of findings;
the analysis shall include comparative research with other sites of similar age.
In addition to the technical report, the findings from this research shall be
published in an appropriate scientific journal. The Applicant shall fund all
technical reporting and subsequent publication.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The historic architect shall submit a report
documenting conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards to
the City for review and approval prior to issuance of any building permits for
the Project. Artifacts, features, and other materials recovered through this
process shall be described, illustrated, and analyzed fully in a technical report
of findings; the analysis shall include comparative research with other sites of
similar age. In addition to the technical report, the findings from this research
shall be published in an appropriate scientific journal. The Applicant shall
fund all technical reporting and subsequent publication. The historic architect
shall notify the Applicant if any unforeseen circumstance arises during
construction that could potentially result in nonconformance with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the report is reviewed and approved prior
to issuance of grading permits for Phase 3. The historic architect shall
participate in a pre-construction meeting with the general contractor and
subcontractors and periodically monitor construction to completion of
construction.
MM CR-10 The Applicant shall retain a qualified professional photographer
to prepare Historic American Building Survey (HABS) Level II
documentation. This documentation shall record the existing appearance of
all seven contributing buildings in large and medium format HABS
photographs. All documentation components shall be completed in
accordance with the Guidelines for Architectural and Engineering
Documentation (HABS standards). The photographs shall consist primarily
of large format, 4-inch by 5-inch, black and white negatives (one set), contact
prints (one set) and 8-inch by 10-inch prints (two sets), archivally processed
and printed on fiber-based paper. The set of original negatives shall be made
at the time the photographs are taken. The original, archivally-sound
negatives and prints shall be and distributed as follows: (1) the Library of
Congress in Washington, DC through the National Park Service (one set of
negatives and contact prints).
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-67
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. The draft documentation shall be
assembled and submitted to the qualified professional historic architect and
the City for review and approval prior to submittal to the repository. The
HABS documentation shall be completed prior to the issuance of grading
permits for Phase 1.
Monitoring. A digital copy of the HABS documentation shall be reviewed by
the City and approved prior to the issuance of grading permits.
MM CR-11 The Applicant shall work with the City to develop an interpretive
project that documents the potential historic district and its cultural and
architectural heritage by means of a pamphlet. This pamphlet will highlight
the former Froom Ranch Dairy, both primary and secondary contributors, in
a social (Froom family) and industrial (dairy industry) context, with an
emphasis on how these buildings were used on the dairy farm, and how this
property relates to the larger dairy farm context in San Luis Obispo, the
Central Coast, and California. Five hundred copies of the pamphlet shall be
published. These professionally researched, written and printed materials
shall be offered at no cost through the local museums and heritage
organizations, and at the trailhead park. After the initial distribution of
printed brochures, digital copies shall be available. Throughout the park,
interpretive signs that provide information on building history and function
(extant and demolished) shall also be incorporated.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft documentation to the City and Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) for
review and approval prior to the issuance of grading permits for Phase 3.
Monitoring. The pamphlet and interpretive signage shall be reviewed by the
CHC and approved by the Community Development Director. The Parks and
Recreation Commission shall review any interpretive signage proposed to be
located within the park. The City Community Development Department shall
ensure park designs incorporate interpretive signage consistent with approved
documentation.
MM CR-12 The Applicant shall reuse original material to the greatest extent
feasible in the proposed work on the contributing structures to be relocated
and/or reconstructed within the proposed public park (main residence, dairy
barn, creamery/house, and granary). The Applicant and historic architect
shall work with the City to prepare a marketing plan to offer to the public any
salvaged historic materials not used during rehabilitation and reconstruction
of the primary contributors, and demolition of the secondary contributors. As
ES-68 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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appropriate, unused or unretained historic materials will be offered to local
historical societies and museums, then offered to architectural recycling
before being disposed.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft documentation to the City for review and approval by the Community
Development Director prior to the issuance of grading permits for Phase 3.
Monitoring. The marketing plan shall be reviewed and approved by the
Community Development Director.
MM CR-13 The Applicant and historic architect shall prepare design
guidelines and a review process for new construction proximate to the main
residence. New construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that the
essential form and integrity of the main residence and its setting would be
unimpaired. The design guidelines and review by City Community
Development Director shall ensure new construction is compatible with main
residence in material, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft design guidelines to the City and CHC for review and approval prior to
approval of entitlements and the issuance of grading permits for Phase 1.
Monitoring. The design guidelines shall be reviewed by the CHC and
approved by the Community Development Director.
MM CR-14 Prior to commencement of Phase 1 construction, a City-approved
qualified structural engineer and historical architect shall survey the existing
foundations and other structural aspects of the main residence, creamery,
dairy barn, and granary, and develop a preservation plan to protect the
historic buildings from potential damage during construction activities.
The qualified structural engineer shall identify any necessary temporary
structural bracing for the historic structures to avoid damage to these
resources during the duration of construction. The qualified structural
engineer shall prepare a temporary historic structure stabilization plan
identifying these techniques as necessary.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit the
preservation plan and temporary historic structure stabilization plan to the
City for review and approval prior to recordation of the final map and issuance
of grading and building permits for Phase 1 of construction. Prior to the
issuance of Phase 4 building and grading permits, the Applicant shall submit
the final Historic Structures Plan and temporary historic structure stabilization
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Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
plan, with incorporation of any additional recommendations for repair, to the
City for review and approval.
Monitoring. The City engineer shall review and approve the preservation
plan prior to recordation of the final map and issuance of grading permits for
Phase 1. The City-approved structural engineer shall periodically monitor
vibration during vibration-causing construction activities to ensure excessive
vibration does not occur and that temporary historic structure stabilization
plan strategies are effective at avoiding vibration damage. The structural
engineer shall halt construction activity if he/she deems construction activity
may harm historical resources and shall modify or augment the temporary
historic structure stabilization plan strategies accordingly.
3.6 Geology and Soils
GEO-1. The Project would expose people or
structures to adverse effects from earthquakes and
seismically induced hazards.
None required Less than Significant
GEO-2. The Project has the potential to exacerbate
potential soils hazards, including expansive soils,
differential settlement, and subsidence.
None required Less than Significant
GEO-3. The Project would potentially cause erosion,
landslides, and rockfall.
None required Less than Significant
GEO-4. The Project would include subterranean
parking in Villaggio and may require groundwater
dewatering in areas with high groundwater.
None required Less than Significant
GEO-5. Project construction could uncover
paleontological resources in geologic deposits during
earthwork activities. If improperly handled, such
resources could be adversely impacted.
MM GEO-1 Prior to construction of each phase, workers shall receive
education regarding the recognition of possible paleontological resources,
during grading and excavation. Such training shall provide construction
personnel with direction regarding the procedures to be followed in the
unlikely event that previously unidentified paleontological materials are
discovered during construction. Training shall also inform construction
personnel that unauthorized collection or disturbance of paleontological
resources is not allowed. The training shall be prepared by a City-approved
paleontologist and shall provide a description of paleontological resources
that may be encountered in the Project site, outline steps to follow in the event
that a discovery is made, and provide contact information for the Project
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
paleontologist and appropriate City personnel. The training shall be
conducted concurrent with other environmental or safety awareness and
education programs for the Project, provided that the program elements
pertaining to paleontological resources is provided by a qualified instructor
meeting applicable professional qualifications standards. In order to prevent
inadvertent potential significant impacts to paleontological resources that
may be encountered during ground disturbance or construction activities, in
the event of any inadvertent discovery of paleontological resources during
construction, all work within the vicinity of the resource established by the
City-approved paleontologist shall temporarily cease. If a paleontological
resource is discovered, the City-approved paleontologist shall be notified to
assess the significance of the find and provide recommendations as necessary
for its proper disposition.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to ground disturbance for each phase,
construction workers shall participate in an educational program that will
enable them to recognize and report possible paleontological resources. The
conditions for treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all grading plans.
The City shall be notified immediately after the unanticipated discovery of a
paleontological resource. Paleontological reports shall be reviewed and
approved prior to issuance of occupancy. In the event that any potentially
significant paleontological resources are uncovered during ground
disturbance or construction activities:
a) Temporarily cease grading in the vicinity of the resource established by
the City-approved paleontologist and redirect activity elsewhere to
ensure the preservation of the resource in which the discovery was
made;
b) Immediately notify the City of San Luis Obispo Community
Development Department regarding the resource and redirected
grading activity;
c) Obtain the services of a City-approved professional paleontologist who
shall assess the significance of the find and provide recommendations
as necessary for its proper disposition for review and approval by City
of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department.
d) Complete all significance assessment and mitigation of impacts to the
paleontological resource and verification reviewed and approved by
City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department prior to
resuming grading in the area of the find.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-71
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. Paleontological reports prepared for the Project site in response
to an unanticipated discovery shall be maintained by the City of San Luis
Obispo Community Development Department.
3.7 Hazards, Hazardous Materials, and Wildfire
HAZ-1. The Project would exacerbate wildfire risks,
thereby exposing occupants to wildfire hazards, and
impair emergency response, and would require
wildfire fuel management in the Irish Hills Natural
Reserve.
MM HAZ-1 The Applicant shall prepare and submit a Construction Impact
Management Plan to the City of San Luis Obispo Fire Department (SLOFD)
prior to the issuance of grading permits. The Plan shall list measures taken
during construction to reduce the potential for brush or grass fires from use
of heavy equipment, welding, vehicles with catalytic converters, and other
potential activities. The Plan shall include SLOFD recommended measures
including, but not limited to the following:
• All equipment with the potential to work off-road shall be equipped with
appropriate mufflers and have extinguishers mounted on each vehicle;
• In coordination with SLOFD, personnel shall be briefed on the dangers
of wildfire and be able to respond accordingly should the need arise;
• Onsite supervisor(s) shall have a cell phone or other means of initiating
a 911 response time in a timely manner in the event of a medical
emergency and/or fire;
• All dead and decadent vegetation immediately surrounding the
development area shall be removed to a minimum perimeter of 30 feet;
• Smoking shall only occur in a designated area;
• A water tender will be available on each construction site during the
entire phase of construction; and
• A water tender operator shall be available onsite during all
construction and remain onsite a minimum of 30 minutes after all
construction has finished for the day.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare a Construction
Impact Management Plan in coordination with SLOFD, the San Luis Obispo
County Fire Department, and the City, and submit the Plan to the SLOFD for
approval prior to the issuance of grading permits. Provisions for fire protection
shall be restated on all grading and building plans. Fire protection measures
shall be implemented throughout construction and draw upon the CALFIRE
and San Luis Obispo County Fire Department Strategic Fire Plan. The name
and telephone number of an onsite supervisor shall be provided to SLOFD
prior to commencement of construction or grading activities.
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-72 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The SLOFD shall review the Construction Impact Management
Plan and provide recommended measures as necessary. The City permit
processing planner shall ensure measures are integrated into the final grading
and building plans prior to permit approval. City monitoring staff shall spot
check for compliance during construction for each phase of development.
MM HAZ-2 In accordance with PRC Section 4291, the Applicant shall hire
a City-qualified team that consists of appropriate specialists (i.e., fire
management professionals, biologists) to prepare a Community Fire
Protection Plan to design the creation and maintenance of required fire
buffers and fuel management zones around developable areas and detail
methods for achieving fire safety around new buildings while preserving the
integrity and function of affected native plant communities to the maximum
extent feasible, and that ensures that consistent fire fuel management
practices are applied throughout the City. The Plan shall incorporate
management strategies in coordination with adjacent property owners,
including Mountainbrook Church and the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. The
Plan shall outline the removal and control of invasive, non-native vegetation,
and conservation of sensitive habitats and rare species, while developing fire
fuel management practices that will discourage or prevent non-native grasses
and other non-native invasive species from dominating surrounding areas.
Landscaping shall be maintained by the Applicant and periodically inspected
by the SLOFD during fire inspections in each of the fuel management zones
to avoid the buildup of deadwood and leaf litter, which, if left to accumulate,
would reduce the mitigating effect of the Plan. Specifically, the Plan shall
include, but not be limited to, the following elements:
• Vegetation coverage and type;
• Setbacks between structures, sensitive wildlife species, and access
routes;
• Development plan landscaping and planting standards within the
setback areas;
• Native trees and shrubs, such as coast live oak, coastal scrub, and
grassland shall be thinned and limbed up but left in place;
• All allowable weed abatement techniques, qualifications, and
requirements for weed abatement contractors, as well as measures and
techniques that ensure the required fuel management and vegetation
clearance, shall be designed and implemented to provide adequate
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-73
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
structure protection and avoid degradation of sensitive biological
habitat; and
• Invasive species shall be removed and controlled.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to approval of the final development
plan, the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be prepared and submitted to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD for review and approval,
with coordination from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department. The
Plan shall be implemented consistent with the approved maintenance
schedule.
Monitoring. The City-qualified biologist shall submit a monitoring report to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD at the end of the first year
following Project occupancy documenting the fuel management activities that
took place. Conformance with the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be
demonstrated through the submittal of annual photo documentation by the
Applicant or site visits as necessary at the discretion of the Compliance
monitoring staff.
MM HAZ-3 The Froom Ranch Specific Plan (FRSP) shall designate smoking
areas, located away from onsite fire hazards areas and within acceptable
locations consistent with Chapter 8.16, Smoking Prohibition and Secondhand
Smoke Control, of the City Municipal Code. Otherwise, smoking shall be
prohibited onsite. The Applicant shall amend the FRSP to include policies to
requiring the allowed use of fire resistant landscaping and hardscaping in
areas to reduce mulch/gorilla hair, which is the receptive embers, if
determined appropriate by SLOFD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to adoption of the Final FRSP, the
Applicant shall amend the Final FRSP to include these policies. The Applicant
shall coordinate with SLOFD to identify appropriate locations for designated
smoking areas and appropriate fire resistant landscaping and hardscaping
features within the Project site.
Monitoring. The Final FRSP shall be reviewed by the SLOFD and City for
inclusion of the above measure.
MM HAZ-4 The Applicant shall prepare and implement an Evacuation Plan,
which shall address both Villaggio and Madonna Froom Ranch areas. The
Evacuation Plan shall be subject to review by the City and SLOFD, and shall
include, but not be limited to:
• Accommodation for assisted living and special care individuals;
• Shelter-in-place accommodations;
ES-74 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Specified quantity and capacity of vehicles required to accommodate
residents and employees of Villaggio, and maintenance of those
vehicles;
• Signage that clearly indicates evacuation routes and meeting areas;
• Specified egress points for transportation vehicles;
• A relocation plan from the Project site to a secondary facility, with
associated transportation;
• Contingency plans for changes to the construction schedule or phasing
plan that would affect the primary evacuation plan and routes;
• Periodic updates that would consider potential redevelopment
activities or other roadway alterations; and
• Regular practice drills (e.g., one per year) for implementation of the
Evacuation Plan.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The above Evacuation Plan shall be
prepared in coordination with the SLOFD and the San Luis Obispo County
Fire Department and submitted for approval to the City and SLOFD prior to
adoption of the Final VTTM. The Applicant shall resubmit the Plan to the City
and SLOFD prior to the construction of each phase of development. Prior to
occupancy of the first residential unit, the Applicant shall implement measures
within the Evacuation Plan.
Monitoring. The City and SLOFD shall review the Evacuation Plan and
ensure all recommendations are incorporated. The City Fire Marshall shall
inspect the Project site for compliance prior to the occupancy of the first
residential unit for each phase.
MM HAZ-5 The Froom Ranch Specific Plan (FRSP) shall designate fire
access routes in at least two locations from the Project site to the Irish Hills
Natural Reserve on at least 12-foot wide paths, one extending from Villaggio
and one from Madonna Froom Ranch. Fire access routes shall be designed
to allow emergency response to wildland area in the Irish Hills to support
direct access for firefighting personnel and equipment.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to adoption of the Final FRSP, the
Applicant shall amend the Final FRSP to include the required accessway, in
coordination with SLOFD to identify appropriate locations within the Project
site.
Monitoring. The Final FRSP shall be reviewed by the SLOFD and City for
inclusion of the above measure.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-75
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
HAZ-2. The Project would potentially expose
persons to toxic, hazardous, or otherwise harmful
chemicals through accidental conditions involving
the release of hazardous materials into the
environment.
None Required. Less than Significant
HAZ-3. The Project site is located within the ALUP
Safety Areas and would potentially result in an
airport-related safety hazard for people residing or
working in the Project site.
None Required. Less than Significant
3.8 Hydrology and Water Quality
HYD-1. Project construction activities would result
in impacts to water quality due to polluted runoff and
increased erosion or siltation.
MM HYD-1 Prior to the issuance of any construction/grading permit and/or
the commencement of any clearing, grading, or excavation, the Applicant
shall submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) for discharge from the Project site to the
California SWRCB Storm Water Permit Unit.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The NOI shall be submitted for review and
approval to the SWRCB. The City will verify that a Waste Discharge
Identification (WDID) number is assigned by the Board prior to the issuance
of grading permits for construction activities. The NOI shall address discharge
during all phases of development of the site until all disturbed areas are
permanently stabilized.
Monitoring. The City will confirm WDID number assignment prior to
approval of the grading permit(s). City monitoring staff will periodically
inspect the site during construction to ensure compliance.
MM HYD-2 For each phase of construction, the Applicant shall require the
building contractor to prepare and submit a Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to the City 45 days prior to the start of work for
approval. The contractor is responsible for understanding the State General
Permit and instituting the SWPPP during construction. A SWPPP for site
construction shall be developed prior to the initiation of grading and
implemented for all construction activity on the Project site in excess of 1
acre, or where the area of disturbance is less than 1 acre but is part of the
Project’s plan of development that in total disturbs 1 or more acres. The
SWPPP shall identify potential pollutant sources that may affect the quality
of discharges to stormwater and shall include specific BMPs to control the
discharge of material from the site, including, but not limited to:
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
ES-76 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Temporary detention basins, straw bales, sand bagging, mulching,
erosion control blankets, silt fencing, and soil stabilizers shall be used.
• Sufficient physical protection and pollution prevention measures to
prevent sedimentation, siltation, and/or debris from entering the Calle
Joaquin wetlands.
• Soil stockpiles and graded slopes shall be covered after 14 days of
inactivity and 24 hours prior to and during inclement weather
conditions.
• Fiber rolls shall be placed along the top of exposed slopes and at the
toes of graded areas to reduce surface soil movement, as necessary.
• A routine monitoring plan shall be implemented to ensure success of
all onsite erosion and sedimentation control measures.
• Dust control measures shall be implemented to ensure success of all
onsite activities to control fugitive dust.
• Streets surrounding the Project site shall be cleaned daily or as
necessary.
• BMPs shall be strictly followed to prevent spills and discharges of
pollutants onsite (material and container storage, proper trash
disposal, construction entrances, etc.).
• Sandbags, or other equivalent techniques, shall be utilized along
graded areas to prevent siltation transport to the surrounding areas.
• Additional BMPs shall be implemented for any fuel storage or fuel
handling that could occur onsite during construction. The SWPPP must
be prepared in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the SWRCB.
The SWPPP shall be submitted to the City along with
grading/development plans for review and approval. The Applicant
shall file a Notice of Completion for construction of the development,
identifying that pollution sources were controlled during the
construction of the Project and implementing a closure SWPPP for the
site.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare a SWPPP that
includes the above and any additional required BMPs addressing each phase
of construction and timing. The SWPPP and notices shall be submitted to the
SWRCB under their Stormwater Multi-Application, Reporting, and Tracking
System (SMARTS). The SWPPP shall be designed to address erosion and
sediment control during all phases of development of the site until all
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-77
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
disturbed areas are permanently stabilized. The development plans submitted
to the City shall include and reflect the erosion control plan and BMPs
submitted to the State.
Monitoring. City monitoring staff shall periodically inspect the site for
compliance with the SWPPP during grading to monitor runoff and after
conclusion of grading activities. A Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) will
be retained by the developer for overall management and reporting
responsibility regarding the SWPPP and documentation under SMARTS in
accordance with their permitting requirement. The Applicant will keep a copy
of the SWPPP on the Project site during grading and construction activities.
MM HYD-3 Installation of the stormwater management system shall occur
during the dry season (May through October), including realignment and
restoration of Froom Creek, installation of hydrological connections for the
stormwater detention basin, construction of onsite retention basins, and the
installation of the Home Depot and LOVR ditches. Stormwater management
system features shall be fully installed and restored to ensure soil stabilization
and adequate stormwater conveyance capacity prior to the storm season
(October through April).
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall demonstrate
compliance within grading and construction phasing plans subject to City
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits for each Project
phase.
Monitoring. The City shall review grading and construction plans for all
phases to ensure compliance. City grading monitors shall spot check for
compliance.
HYD-2. The Project would potentially exacerbate
flooding and erosion hazards onsite and in areas
downstream, particularly related to the proposed
realignment and design of Froom Creek and
developed areas of the site.
MM HYD-4 The Applicant shall submit final Froom Creek Realignment plans
and supporting technical studies that provide a refined bio-engineering
approach to ensure creek bank and channel bottom stability and avoidance
or reduction of further erosion. Final creek design plans and a supporting
engineering study shall address appropriate boulder sizes and bank
protection measures necessary to prevent dislodgement or remobilization of
in-channel or toe-slope protection rock. Natural methods (e.g., additional
rock) shall be employed as needed to maintain the proposed creek alignment
and downslope bank location between the channel and LOVR and the Calle
Joaquin wetlands, and to protect mid- to upper-bank areas and top-of-bank
from erosion from flood flows and aid in maintenance of riparian vegetation.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit revised plans
and additional supporting technical studies to the City for review and approval
prior to recordation of the final VTM. The final VTM shall depict all
necessary revisions or improvements identified in the revised Froom Creek
Realignment plans and supporting studies.
Monitoring. City staff shall inspect Froom Creek realignment improvements
and ensure compliance throughout all construction phases. Permit compliance
monitoring staff shall perform periodic site inspections to verify compliance
with planned improvements.
HYD-3. Operation of the Project would potentially
impact water quality of Froom Creek and San Luis
Obispo Creek due to polluted urban runoff and
sedimentation.
None Required. Less than Significant
HYD-4. The Project would involve development of
new impervious surfaces and potentially interfere
with groundwater recharge.
None Required. Less than Significant
3.9 Land Use
LU-1. The Project would allow urban development
above the 150-foot elevation and would relocate
portions of the Froom Ranch Dairy complex, which
would potentially conflict with City General Plan
policies adopted for the purpose of avoiding impacts
to visual, biological, and cultural resources and
wildfire hazards.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
Significant and
Unavoidable
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-79
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
ES-80 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
MM BIO-2 The Applicant shall retain a qualified Environmental
Coordinator/qualified biologist, subject to review and approval by the City to
oversee compliance with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all construction
activities, conduct a biological resources education program for all
construction workers prior to the initiation of any clearing or construction
activities, and provide quarterly reports to the City regarding construction
activities, enforcement issues, and remedial measures. The Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator shall be responsible for conducting inspections
of the work area each work day to ensure that excavation areas and sensitive
or restored habitats do not exhibit construction-related impacts or hazards to
wildlife. If any exposure risk is identified, the Environmental Coordinator
shall implement measures that could include, but not be limited to, hazing,
fencing, and wildlife removals to eliminate the exposure risk.
In addition, the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall monitor and
regulate all construction occurring within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, other existing or proposed drainage features, riparian
habitat, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4, and seasonal or permanent wetlands.
During appropriate flowering, nesting, breeding, migration, and dispersal
seasons, the Environmental Coordinator shall also conduct sensitive species
surveys immediately prior to construction activities and shall monitor
construction activities in the vicinity of habitats to be avoided.
The work area boundaries and other off-limit areas shall be identified by the
biologist and/or Environmental Coordinator on a daily basis. The biologist
and/or Environmental Coordinator shall inspect construction and sediment
control fencing each work day during construction activities. Any vegetation
clearing activities shall be monitored by the biologist and/or Environmental
Coordinator.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The City shall approve the Applicant’s
qualified Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist prior to issuance of
grading and building permits for each phase of construction. The
Environmental Coordinator shall be present onsite to monitor construction
activities pursuant to the approved Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan.
ES-82 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The Environmental Coordinator shall monitor all grading and
construction activities occurring within the vicinity of sensitive habitats or
known location of sensitive species, shall conduct regular site inspections
throughout the entire site, and shall be responsible for compliance of the
construction activities and the above BMPs within MM BIO-1 and MM BIO-
3 through MM BIO-8. During construction, the Environmental Coordinator
shall submit quarterly monitoring reports to the City to ensure compliance
with the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and applicable laws,
regulations, and policies. The Environmental Coordinator/qualified biologist
shall be onsite during all construction activities which take place within 50
feet of sensitive creek, wetland, and riparian habitat areas.
MM BIO-3 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include a
Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) with details on timing and
implementation of required habitat restoration, enhancement, or creation
measures. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP shall
be prepared under the direction of, and approved by, the City’s Natural
Resources Manager in conjunction with regulatory agencies with permitting
authority over the Project. The HMMP shall contain, at a minimum, the
following components (or as otherwise modified by regulatory agency
permitting conditions):
a) Pre-construction surveys and delineation of vegetation communities,
habitat, and wetland features, including clear maps and a summary of
onsite habitats to be protected and acreage, design, and locations of
required habitat mitigation sites.
b) A description of the location and boundaries of the mitigation site and
description of existing site conditions.
c) A description of measures to be undertaken to enhance the mitigation
site for the target species and to protect sensitive resources.
d) Record necessary replacement of disturbed, altered, and/or lost area
of habitat.
e) A binding long-term agreement with the Applicant to implement and
maintain protected and restored sensitive habitats, including native
bunch grassland, wetlands, springs, seeps, tributary drainages, and
other sensitive or restored native habitats. These measures shall
identify typical performance and success criteria deemed acceptable by
the City and CDFW based on measurable goals and objectives. Said
criteria for restored habitats shall be, at a minimum, at least 70-percent
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-83
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type.
f) A description of habitat and species restoration and monitoring
measures, including specific and objective performance criteria,
monitoring methods, data analysis, reporting requirements, and
monitoring schedule. (At a minimum, success criteria shall be at least
70-percent survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover
by vegetation type and will include a replacement ratio of 2:1 and
determination by a City-approved biologist that the mitigation site
provides ecological functions and values for the focal species equal to
or exceeding the impacted habitat.)
g) Plan requirements that ensure mitigation elements that do not meet
performance or final success criteria within 5 years are completed
through an extension of the plan for an additional 2 years or at the
discretion of the City Natural Resources Manager with the goal of
completing all mitigation requirements prior to the HMMP end date.
h) Monitoring of the mitigation and maintenance areas shall occur for the
period established in the HMMP, or until success criteria are met; an
endowment may be required in some cases as determined by the City.
If success criteria cannot be met through the HMMP, the City Natural
Resources Manager shall specify appropriate commensurate measures
(e.g., onsite or offsite restoration, endowment, or bond to the City for
completion of necessary mitigation).
i) A binding long-term agreement with the Villaggio Life Plan
Community to fund and retain a qualified biologist to train all
landscaping crew staff hired over the life of the development on
sensitive plant species and habitat within the vicinity of the
development, including the identification and avoidance of sensitive
plants and habitat. The qualified biologist shall conduct annual
monitoring of vegetation surrounding the development and prepare a
report summarizing the avoidance or disturbance of sensitive resources
from operational activities of the Villaggio development, and
identifying necessary replacement or restoration of affected resources.
Necessary mitigation shall be subject to the same standards for
performance, monitoring, and success identified in subitems b through
h, above. The report shall be submitted to the City annually for review
and approval.
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j) A plan for fencing and/or signage around the Upper Terrace of the
Villaggio development, prohibiting residents, guests, and employees
from accessing and disturbing the surrounding sensitive resources.
k) Requirements for payment of annual fees to the City to fund City review
and inspection of the site and Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP requirements.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through
frequent monitoring and inspection. The Environmental Coordinator shall
also ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring and inspection of restoration activities.
MM BIO-4 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require
avoidance of sensitive natural communities outside approved development
footprints such as the Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance, Central Coast
Arroyo Willow Scrub Community, Coastal and Central Valley Freshwater
Marsh, and wetland areas to the maximum extent feasible. Mitigation for
impacted sensitive natural communities that cannot be avoided shall be
achieved through one or more of the following options, subject to City
approval:
a) Onsite restoration, enhancement, or creation of suitable replacement
habitat, if feasible onsite restoration opportunities exist and at ratios
consistent with those identified in MM BIO-5;
b) Offsite restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted
species at the minimum replacement ratio of 2:1 for sensitive natural
communities, native grasslands, and riparian habitat;
c) Financial contribution to an in-lieu fee program that results in
restoration or creation of suitable habitat for the impacted natural
communities and/or species; and/or
d) Purchase of mitigation credits at a USFWS- and/or CDFW-approved
mitigation bank.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-85
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the BMMP and HMMP to
ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures have been included.
The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities pursuant to the approved
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP. The City shall ensure
compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan and HMMP through receipt and review of monitoring reports, and site
inspections.
MM BIO-5 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall require all
temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands, grasslands, and riparian
habitat be mitigated, as follows:
a) Temporary wetland, native grassland, and riparian habitat impacts
shall be mitigated at a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio (area of restored
habitat to impacted habitat).
b) Permanent impacts to sensitive natural communities, native
grasslands, and riparian habitat shall be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio (area
of restored and enhanced habitat to impacted habitat).
c) Permanent direct impacts to wetlands shall be mitigated at a minimum
3:1 ratio unless otherwise directed by state and federal agencies,
including but not limited to the CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and USFWS.
d) Potential indirect impacts to the Calle Joaquin wetlands affected by the
Froom Creek realignment and changes to site hydrology shall be
mitigated at a minimum 2:1 ratio and require mitigation of at least
10.24 acres. For the purpose of this mitigation, the area of the Calle
Joaquin wetlands potentially affected by the Project include those
wetlands northwest of Calle Joaquin within the Specific Plan area and
southeast of the proposed Froom Creek low-flow channel.
e) Habitat revegetation or creation shall occur in the fall or winter no
more than 1 year following habitat disturbance. Revegetation shall be
monitored monthly for 7 years with a goal of at least 70-percent
survival of container plants and 70-percent relative cover by vegetation
type at the end of the 7-year period. Irrigation shall be provided during
ES-86 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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this period or until otherwise determined necessary by the Applicant’s
Environmental Coordinator.
f) Riparian vegetation along Froom Creek shall be maintained in
perpetuity to the satisfaction of the City by the Applicant or a City-
approved designee. Froom Creek conditions shall be monitored
annually following winter storm seasons to assess damage to riparian
vegetation and need for maintenance restoration. Monitoring and
maintenance of riparian vegetation conditions shall be conducted
consistent with the requirements of the Habitat Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan outlined in MM BIO-3.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included in the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities through routine monitoring, inspection, and reporting of restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through receipt of monitoring
reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-6 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall detail
timing and implementation of required habitat restoration and shall be
submitted to the City’s Natural Resources Manager for review and approval,
including requirements for consultation with CDFW, NMFS, and USACE as
needed. A copy of the final plan shall be submitted to the City for review and
approval. The plan shall be implemented by the Project Applicant, under
supervision by the City and the Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator, and
shall:
a) Describe replacement of sensitive natural community habitats
removed, lost, or adversely impacted by the Project, including a list of
the soil, plants, and other materials that will be necessary for successful
habitat restoration/ replacement, and a description of planting
methods, location, spacing, erosion protection, and irrigation
measures that will be needed. Restoration and habitat enhancement
shall be limited to use of appropriate native species. Habitat
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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restoration or enhancement areas shall be designed to facilitate
establishment of appropriate native plants such as willows,
cottonwoods, bunchgrass, and rushes.
b) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be established within
the Project boundaries, adjacent to and contiguous with existing
habitats to the maximum extent possible.
c) Habitat restoration or enhancement sites shall be placed within
existing or additional necessary deed-restricted area(s) and shall be
maintained and monitored for a minimum of 7 years. If sufficient onsite
mitigation area is not practicable, an offsite mitigation plan shall be
prepared as part of the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and
approved by permitting agencies.
d) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall identify
appropriate restoration and enhancement activities to compensate for
impacts to creek, wetland, native bunch grass and riparian habitat,
including a detailed planting plan and maintenance plans using locally
obtained native species, and shall include habitat enhancement to
support native wildlife and plant species.
e) A weed management plan and weed identification list shall be included
in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.
f) Habitat restoration or enhancement areas shall be maintained weekly
for the first three years after Project completion and quarterly
thereafter. Maintenance shall include replacement of unsuccessful
planted specimens and eradication of noxious weeds found on
California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Lists A and B.
Noxious weeds on CDFA List C may be eradicated or otherwise
managed.
g) Quarterly and annual reports documenting site inspections and site
recovery status shall be prepared and sent to the City and appropriate
agencies.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to be submitted to the
City for review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and
recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The Environmental Coordinator
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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shall ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration
activities. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and HMMP through receipt of
monitoring reports and site inspections.
MM BIO-9 Construction and grading of the realigned portion of Froom
Creek, including planting of riparian vegetation, watering, and bank
stabilization, shall be conducted prior to removal of the existing creek
segment to ensure a habitat for special-status species within the creek is
maintained through the Project site with no interruption during construction.
Project phasing shall be adjusted as needed to accommodate this sequence of
construction activities.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall demonstrate phasing
and creek restoration within the final VTM, and the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan. The Applicant shall submit the plan to the City for review
and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final
VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan, and final VTM for compliance. The Applicant’s Environmental
Coordinator shall monitor creek realignment activities to ensure compliance
with this mitigation measure.
MM BIO-10 Chorro Creek Bog Thistle Management. Prior to issuance of
grading and building permits, the Applicant shall submit or fund a site survey
for Chorro Creek bog thistle, and:
1. All individual locations of Chorro Creek bog thistle shall be mapped
using GPS coordinates. No construction activities or disturbance shall
occur within 50 feet of mapped Chorro Creek bog thistle. This setback
shall be delineated and maintained with construction fencing and clear
signage for the duration of grading and construction. If the site survey
results identify Chorro Creek bog thistle that may be disturbed or lost
from Project construction, the Project shall be redesigned to ensure a
minimum 50 foot buffer from mapped Chorro Creek bog thistle
occurrences.
2. Development adjacent to Drainages 1, 2, and 3 shall be set back a
minimum of 50 feet from the top of the bank of these drainages and the
edge of delineated associated wetlands.
3. Drainages 1, 2, and 3 and associated wetlands shall be fenced a
minimum of 50 feet from the top of the bank or edge of delineated
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-89
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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wetland. The Applicant shall ensure and demonstrate to the City
through frequent reporting requirements approved by the City that
these areas are managed and maintained in perpetuity to maintain
wetland and Chorro Creek bog thistle habitat values.
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements for the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM BIO-11 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
special-status wildlife species management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the rainy season (typically October 15 to April 15) to the
extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of the existing and proposed
Froom Creek channel, and other existing or proposed drainage features,
riparian or wetland habitat, and any suitable nesting sites as determined by
the City-approved biologist. Injury, mortality to, or significant disturbance of
onsite sensitive species, including the California red-legged frog, south-
central California coast steelhead, and white-tailed kite, shall be avoided. The
plan shall include the following measures: pre-construction surveys; worker
awareness; cessation of work in occupied areas if individuals are identified;
relocation (if necessary) of frogs and steelhead from the work area by a
professional biologist authorized by the USFWS and/or CDFW; and
monitoring of construction activities within the vicinity of sensitive habitats
by a qualified biologist during construction, consistent with MM BIO-2.
Necessary permits shall be obtained from the state (CDFW) and federal
(USACE and USFWS) regulatory agencies with jurisdiction and/or permitting
authority over a portion of the Project. Any other sensitive species observed
during the pre-construction surveys shall be relocated by the qualified
biologist into the nearest suitable habitat outside the disturbance area as
determined in consultation with the appropriate jurisdictional resource
agency.
ES-90 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. All requirements shall be included on the
Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan to be submitted to the City for
review and approval prior to issuance of grading permits and recordation of
the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate
mitigation measures have been included. The City shall ensure compliance
with requirements in the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM BIO-12 The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall address
the movement of special-status species, as follows:
1. Migratory and Nesting Bird Management. Grading and construction
activities shall avoid the breeding season (typically from February 15
to August 15) to the extent practicable, particularly within 50 feet of
riparian or wetland habitat and mature trees. If Project activities must
be conducted during this period and within the vicinity of riparian or
wetland habitat and/or mature trees, pre-construction nesting bird
surveys shall take place no more than one week prior to habitat
disturbance associated with each phase; if active nests are located
during these surveys, the following measures shall be implemented:
a. Construction activities within 50 feet of active nests shall be
restricted until chicks have fledged, unless the nest belongs to a
raptor, in which case a 500-foot activity restriction buffer shall be
observed.
b. Construction shall be limited to daylight hours (7:00 AM to 7:00
PM or sunset, whichever is sooner).
c. A pre-construction survey report shall be submitted to the City
immediately upon completion of the survey. The report shall detail
appropriate fencing or flagging of the buffer zone and make
recommendations on additional monitoring requirements. A map
of the Project site and nest locations shall be included with the
report. If any sensitive species are observed during pre-
construction surveys, the Project biologist shall coordinate with
appropriate resource agencies to determine appropriate
procedure for handling or avoidance of the specimen.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-91
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
d. The Project biologist conducting the nesting survey shall have the
authority to reduce or increase the recommended buffer
depending upon site conditions and the species involved. A report
of findings and recommendations for bird protection shall be
submitted to the City prior to vegetation removal. If sensitive
species are observed during pre-construction surveys, the Project
biologist shall coordinate with appropriate resource agencies to
determine appropriate procedures for handling or avoidance of
the specimen.
2. Bat Colony Management. Prior to removal of any trees over 20 inches
diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) or demolition/relocation of existing
onsite structures, a survey shall be conducted by a City and CDFW-
approved biologist to determine if any tree or structure proposed for
removal, trimming, demolition, or relocation harbors sensitive bat
species or maternal bat colonies. Maternal bat colonies shall not be
disturbed, and grading and construction activities shall avoid the bat
breeding season to the extent feasible. If disturbance of structures must
occur during the bat breeding season, buildings must be inspected and
deemed clear of bat colonies/roosts within 7 days of demolition and an
appropriately trained and approved biologist must conduct a daily site-
clearance during demolition. If bats are roosting in a structure or tree
in the Project site during the daytime but are not part of an active
maternity colony, then exclusion measures shall be utilized and must
include one-way valves that allow bats to leave but are designed so that
the bats may not re-enter the structure. For each occupied roost
removed, one bat box shall be installed in similar habitat as determined
by the Project biologist and shall have similar cavities or crevices to
those which are removed, including access, ventilation, dimensions,
height above ground, and thermal conditions. If a bat colony would be
eliminated from the Project site, appropriate alternate bat habitat shall
be installed within the Project site. To the extent practicable, alternate
bat house installation shall occur near onsite drainages.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall include a management plan for migrating and nesting birds and bat
colonies and shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to
issuance of grading and construction permits and recordation of the final
VTM. Construction shall be conducted between August 16 and February 14
ES-92 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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unless pre-construction surveys are completed. Reports summarizing pre-
construction species surveys (i.e., nesting, bat surveys, etc.) shall be submitted
to the City within 10 days of survey completion. Construction work shall not
commence until after the completion of surveys and City review of
corresponding reports. Any required permits shall be obtained from
appropriate state and federal agencies prior to issuance of grading and
construction permits and recordation of the final VTM.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation
and Monitoring Plan and HMMP to ensure that appropriate requirements
have been included to address potential impacts to bird and bat species. The
City shall ensure compliance with requirements for the Biological Mitigation
and Monitoring Plan. The Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also
ensure compliance during habitat compensation and/or restoration activities.
MM CR-9 The Applicant shall retain a qualified professional historic
architect meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications
Standards (36 CFR Part 61) to review and comment on design and
construction drawings and monitor construction to ensure conformance with
the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. The role of the historic architect
shall include collaboration on a range of items relating to materials selection,
construction methods, design of exterior and interior alterations, and
monitoring of construction activities. The historic architect and Applicant
shall resolve any unforeseen circumstance in a manner that conforms with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
a) The qualified professional historic architect shall work with the
Applicant team to ensure:
b) Deteriorated historic features would be repaired to the greatest extent
feasible. Where features are deteriorated beyond repair, they would be
replaced to exactly match the old.
c) All character-defining features are retained.
d) Physical treatments to historic material would use the gentlest means
possible and would not damage material.
e) Reconstruction would be clearly identified as a contemporary re-
creation.
f) Interpretative signage would clearly provide information regarding the
history of the buildings and their reconstruction.
Artifacts, features, and other materials recovered through this process shall
be described, illustrated, and analyzed fully in a technical report of findings;
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the analysis shall include comparative research with other sites of similar age.
In addition to the technical report, the findings from this research shall be
published in an appropriate scientific journal. The Applicant shall fund all
technical reporting and subsequent publication.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The historic architect shall submit a report
documenting conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards to
the City for review and approval prior to issuance of any building permits for
the Project. Artifacts, features, and other materials recovered through this
process shall be described, illustrated, and analyzed fully in a technical report
of findings; the analysis shall include comparative research with other sites of
similar age. In addition to the technical report, the findings from this research
shall be published in an appropriate scientific journal. The Applicant shall
fund all technical reporting and subsequent publication. The historic architect
shall notify the Applicant if any unforeseen circumstance arises during
construction that could potentially result in nonconformance with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the report is reviewed and approved prior
to issuance of grading permits for Phase 3. The historic architect shall
participate in a pre-construction meeting with the general contractor and
subcontractors and periodically monitor construction to completion of
construction.
MM CR-10 The Applicant shall retain a qualified professional photographer
to prepare Historic American Building Survey (HABS) Level II
documentation. This documentation shall record the existing appearance of
all seven contributing buildings in large and medium format HABS
photographs. All documentation components shall be completed in
accordance with the Guidelines for Architectural and Engineering
Documentation (HABS standards). The photographs shall consist primarily
of large format, 4-inch by 5-inch, black and white negatives (one set), contact
prints (one set) and 8-inch by 10-inch prints (two sets), archivally processed
and printed on fiber-based paper. The set of original negatives shall be made
at the time the photographs are taken. The original, archivally-sound
negatives and prints shall be and distributed as follows: (1) the Library of
Congress in Washington, DC through the National Park Service (one set of
negatives and contact prints).
Plan Requirements and Timing. The draft documentation shall be
assembled and submitted to the qualified professional historic architect and
ES-94 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
the City for review and approval prior to submittal to the repository. The
HABS documentation shall be completed prior to the issuance of grading
permits for Phase 1.
Monitoring. A digital copy of the HABS documentation shall be reviewed by
the City and approved prior to the issuance of grading permits.
MM CR-11 The Applicant shall work with the City to develop an interpretive
project that documents the potential historic district and its cultural and
architectural heritage by means of a pamphlet. This pamphlet will highlight
the former Froom Ranch Dairy, both primary and secondary contributors, in
a social (Froom family) and industrial (dairy industry) context, with an
emphasis on how these buildings were used on the dairy farm, and how this
property relates to the larger dairy farm context in San Luis Obispo, the
Central Coast, and California. Five hundred copies of the pamphlet shall be
published. These professionally researched, written and printed materials
shall be offered at no cost through the local museums and heritage
organizations, and at the trailhead park. After the initial distribution of
printed brochures, digital copies shall be available. Throughout the park,
interpretive signs that provide information on building history and function
(extant and demolished) shall also be incorporated.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft documentation to the City and Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) for
review and approval prior to the issuance of grading permits for Phase 3.
Monitoring. The pamphlet and interpretive signage shall be reviewed by the
CHC and approved by the Community Development Director. The Parks and
Recreation Commission shall review any interpretive signage proposed to be
located within the park. The City Community Development Department shall
ensure park designs incorporate interpretive signage consistent with approved
documentation.
MM CR-12 The Applicant shall reuse original material to the greatest extent
feasible in the proposed work on the contributing structures to be relocated
and/or reconstructed within the proposed public park (main residence, dairy
barn, creamery/house, and granary). The Applicant and historic architect
shall work with the City to prepare a marketing plan to offer to the public any
salvaged historic materials not used during rehabilitation and reconstruction
of the primary contributors, and demolition of the secondary contributors. As
appropriate, unused or unretained historic materials will be offered to local
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-95
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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historical societies and museums, then offered to architectural recycling
before being disposed.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft documentation to the City for review and approval by the Community
Development Director prior to the issuance of grading permits for Phase 3.
Monitoring. The marketing plan shall be reviewed and approved by the
Community Development Director.
MM CR-13 The Applicant and historic architect shall prepare design
guidelines and a review process for new construction proximate to the main
residence. New construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that the
essential form and integrity of the main residence and its setting would be
unimpaired. The design guidelines and review by City Community
Development Director shall ensure new construction is compatible with main
residence in material, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare and submit
draft design guidelines to the City and CHC for review and approval prior to
approval of entitlements and the issuance of grading permits for Phase 1.
Monitoring. The design guidelines shall be reviewed by the CHC and
approved by the Community Development Director.
MM CR-14 Prior to commencement of Phase 1 construction, a City-approved
qualified structural engineer and historical architect shall survey the existing
foundations and other structural aspects of the main residence, creamery,
dairy barn, and granary, and develop a preservation plan to protect the
historic buildings from potential damage during construction activities.
The qualified structural engineer shall identify any necessary temporary
structural bracing for the historic structures to avoid damage to these
resources during the duration of construction. The qualified structural
engineer shall prepare a temporary historic structure stabilization plan
identifying these techniques as necessary.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit the
preservation plan and temporary historic structure stabilization plan to the
City for review and approval prior to recordation of the final map and issuance
of grading and building permits for Phase 1 of construction. Prior to the
issuance of Phase 4 building and grading permits, the Applicant shall submit
the final Historic Structures Plan and temporary historic structure stabilization
plan, with incorporation of any additional recommendations for repair, to the
City for review and approval.
ES-96 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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Monitoring. The City engineer shall review and approve the preservation
plan prior to recordation of the final map and issuance of grading permits for
Phase 1. The City-approved structural engineer shall periodically monitor
vibration during vibration-causing construction activities to ensure excessive
vibration does not occur and that temporary historic structure stabilization
plan strategies are effective at avoiding vibration damage. The structural
engineer shall halt construction activity if he/she deems construction activity
may harm historical resources and shall modify or augment the temporary
historic structure stabilization plan strategies accordingly.
MM HAZ-2 In accordance with PRC Section 4291, the Applicant shall hire
a City-qualified team that consists of appropriate specialists (i.e., fire
management professionals, biologists) to prepare a Community Fire
Protection Plan to design the creation and maintenance of required fire
buffers and fuel management zones around developable areas and detail
methods for achieving fire safety around new buildings while preserving the
integrity and function of affected native plant communities to the maximum
extent feasible, and that ensures that consistent fire fuel management
practices are applied throughout the City. The Plan shall incorporate
management strategies in coordination with adjacent property owners,
including Mountainbrook Church and the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. The
Plan shall outline the removal and control of invasive, non-native vegetation,
and conservation of sensitive habitats and rare species, while developing fire
fuel management practices that will discourage or prevent non-native grasses
and other non-native invasive species from dominating surrounding areas.
Landscaping shall be maintained by the Applicant and periodically inspected
by the SLOFD during fire inspections in each of the fuel management zones
to avoid the buildup of deadwood and leaf litter, which, if left to accumulate,
would reduce the mitigating effect of the Plan. Specifically, the Plan shall
include, but not be limited to, the following elements:
• Vegetation coverage and type;
• Setbacks between structures, sensitive wildlife species, and access
routes;
• Development plan landscaping and planting standards within the
setback areas;
• Native trees and shrubs, such as coast live oak, coastal scrub, and
grassland shall be thinned and limbed up but left in place;
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Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
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• All allowable weed abatement techniques, qualifications, and
requirements for weed abatement contractors, as well as measures and
techniques that ensure the required fuel management and vegetation
clearance, shall be designed and implemented to provide adequate
structure protection and avoid degradation of sensitive biological
habitat; and
• Invasive species shall be removed and controlled.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to approval of the final development
plan, the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be prepared and submitted to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD for review and approval,
with coordination from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department. The
Plan shall be implemented consistent with the approved maintenance
schedule.
Monitoring. The City-qualified biologist shall submit a monitoring report to
the City Natural Resources Manager and SLOFD at the end of the first year
following Project occupancy documenting the fuel management activities that
took place. Conformance with the Community Fire Protection Plan shall be
demonstrated through the submittal of annual photo documentation by the
Applicant or site visits as necessary at the discretion of the Compliance
monitoring staff.
MM HAZ-3 The Froom Ranch Specific Plan (FRSP) shall designate smoking
areas, located away from onsite fire hazards areas and within acceptable
locations consistent with Chapter 8.16, Smoking Prohibition and Secondhand
Smoke Control, of the City Municipal Code. Otherwise, smoking shall be
prohibited onsite. The Applicant shall amend the FRSP to include policies to
requiring the allowed use of fire resistant landscaping and hardscaping in
areas to reduce mulch/gorilla hair, which is the receptive embers, if
determined appropriate by SLOFD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to adoption of the Final FRSP, the
Applicant shall amend the Final FRSP to include these policies. The Applicant
shall coordinate with SLOFD to identify appropriate locations for designated
smoking areas and appropriate fire resistant landscaping and hardscaping
features within the Project site.
Monitoring. The Final FRSP shall be reviewed by the SLOFD and City for
inclusion of the above measure.
MM HAZ-4 The Applicant shall prepare and implement an Evacuation Plan,
which shall address both Villaggio and Madonna Froom Ranch areas. The
ES-98 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Evacuation Plan shall be subject to review by the City and SLOFD, and shall
include, but not be limited to:
• Accommodation for assisted living and special care individuals;
• Shelter-in-place accommodations;
• Specified quantity and capacity of vehicles required to accommodate
residents and employees of Villaggio, and maintenance of those
vehicles;
• Signage that clearly indicates evacuation routes and meeting areas;
• Specified egress points for transportation vehicles;
• A relocation plan from the Project site to a secondary facility, with
associated transportation;
• Contingency plans for changes to the construction schedule or phasing
plan that would affect the primary evacuation plan and routes;
• Periodic updates that would consider potential redevelopment
activities or other roadway alterations; and
• Regular practice drills (e.g., one per year) for implementation of the
Evacuation Plan.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The above Evacuation Plan shall be
prepared in coordination with the SLOFD and the San Luis Obispo County
Fire Department and submitted for approval to the City and SLOFD prior to
adoption of the Final VTTM. The Applicant shall resubmit the Plan to the City
and SLOFD prior to the construction of each phase of development. Prior to
occupancy of the first residential unit, the Applicant shall implement measures
within the Evacuation Plan.
Monitoring. The City and SLOFD shall review the Evacuation Plan and
ensure all recommendations are incorporated. The City Fire Marshall shall
inspect the Project site for compliance prior to the occupancy of the first
residential unit for each phase.
MM HAZ-5 The Froom Ranch Specific Plan (FRSP) shall designate fire
access routes in at least two locations from the Project site to the Irish Hills
Natural Reserve on at least 12-foot wide paths, one extending from Villaggio
and one from Madonna Froom Ranch. Fire access routes shall be designed
to allow emergency response to wildland area in the Irish Hills to support
direct access for firefighting personnel and equipment.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to adoption of the Final FRSP, the
Applicant shall amend the Final FRSP to include the required accessway, in
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-99
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
coordination with SLOFD to identify appropriate locations within the Project
site.
Monitoring. The Final FRSP shall be reviewed by the SLOFD and City for
inclusion of the above measure.
MM TRANS-21 The Project shall include a landscaped median along LOVR
from the terminus of the existing median at northern Project frontage to Calle
Joaquin. Project is responsible for construction of median improvements
prior to occupancy of the Lower Area of Villaggio, or fair-share contribution
if constructed by others sooner.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above median improvement prior to adoption and submitted
to the City for review and approval. The median shall be integrated to the final
VTM prior to approval of development plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
final FRSP prior to Project approval.
MM TRANS-22 The Project shall include an emergency access point from
Villaggio’s Lower Area to the Irish Hills Natural Reserve to provide access
to the existing dirt road network to fight fires in Irish Hills, specifically to Neil
Havlik Way which connects to the four utility power line structures at the top
of the ridgeline. This access point may be gated to ensure site security in
consultation with SLOFD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above emergency access connection prior to adoption and
submitted to the City and SLOFD for review and approval. The above access
road shall be integrated to the final VTM prior to approval of development
plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
final FRSP prior to Project approval.
MM TRANS-23 The Project shall integrate access to the Project site
perimeters for defending the Project site development. Specifically, these
measures should address access to the wildland area immediately abutting
the western boundary of Villaggio’s Lower Area. This measure shall include
access from the proposed Local Road “C” to the Irish Hills, which may
include use of space between proposed buildings for firefighting vehicle
access, ramps up proposed retaining walls, and similar vehicle infrastructure
to maintain access to the base of the Irish Hills.
ES-100 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above emergency access connection along the Irish Hills prior
to adoption, and submitted to the City and SLOFD for review and approval.
The above access road shall be integrated to the final VTM prior to approval
of development plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into
the final FRSP prior to Project approval.
LU-2. The Project would potentially be inconsistent
with existing easements and setback requirements
onsite.
None Required. Less than Significant
3.10 Noise
NO-1. Project construction, including site grading
and heavy truck trips, would generate noise levels
that exceed thresholds established in the City’s
General Plan Noise Element and Noise Guidebook
resulting in potentially significant impacts to
proximate sensitive receptors.
MM NO-1 Except for emergency repair of public service utilities, or where
an exception is issued by the Community Development Department, no
operation of tools or equipment used in construction, drilling, repair,
alteration, or demolition work shall occur between the hours of 7:00 PM and
7:00 AM, or any time on Sundays, holidays, or after sunset, such that the
sound creates a noise disturbance that exceeds 75 dBA for single-family
residential uses, 80 dBA for multi-family residential uses, and 85 dBA for
mixed residential/commercial land uses, as shown in Table 3.10-9 and Table
3.10-10, across a residential or commercial property line.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Plans submitted for grading and building
permits shall clearly indicate construction hours and shall be submitted to the
City for approval prior to grading and building permit issuance for each
Project phase. To ensure response to and resolution of potential public noise
nuisance complaints, plans submitted for grading and building permits shall
clearly identify the Project’s construction manager (or similar) and 24-hour
contact information. At the pre-construction meeting required for all phases
of grading and development, all construction workers shall be briefed on
restricted construction hour limitations. A workday schedule shall be adhered
to for the duration of construction for all phases.
Monitoring. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall
perform periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules
and respond to complaints.
MM NO-2 For all construction activity at the Project site, noise attenuation
techniques shall be employed to ensure that noise levels are maintained within
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-101
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
levels allowed by the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, Title 9,
Chapter 9.12 (Noise Control). Such techniques shall include:
• Sound blankets on noise-generating equipment.
• Stationary construction equipment that generates noise levels above 65
dBA at the Project boundaries shall be shielded with a barrier that
meets a sound transmission class (a rating of how well noise barriers
attenuate sound) of 25.
• All diesel equipment shall be operated with closed engine doors and
shall be equipped with factory-recommended mufflers.
• Temporary sound barriers shall be constructed between construction
sites and affected uses.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall designate the proposed
area of operation of stationary construction equipment and depict acoustic
shielding around these areas on building and grading plans. Equipment and
shielding shall be installed prior to construction and remain in the designated
location throughout construction activities. Construction plans shall identify
Best Management Practices (BMPs) to be implemented during construction.
All construction workers shall be briefed at a pre-construction meeting on
how, why, and where BMP measures are to be implemented. BMPs shall be
identified and described for submittal to the City for review and approval prior
to building or grading permit issuance. BMPs shall be adhered to for the
duration of the Project. Construction plans shall include truck routes and shall
be submitted to the City prior to grading and building permit issuance for each
Project phase.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance throughout all construction
phases. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall perform
periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules.
MM NO-3 The Applicant shall inform landowners and business operators at
properties within 300 feet of the Project site of proposed construction
timelines and noise complaint procedures to minimize potential annoyance or
nuisance complaints related to construction noise no less than 10 days prior
to initiation of any grading and construction activity for any Phase. The notice
shall include the name and contact information of the Project’s construction
manager and contact information for the City’s Community Development
Department.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall provide and post signs
stating these restrictions and the Project’s construction manager’s name and
ES-102 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
contact information at construction site entries. Signs shall be posted prior to
commencement of construction and maintained throughout construction of
any Phase. The construction schedule and mailing list shall be submitted to
the City Community Development Department 10 days prior to initiation of
any earth movement.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance throughout all construction
phases. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall perform
periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules and
respond to complaints.
NO-2. Project construction activities (e.g.,
excavation, transportation of heavy equipment) could
result in exposure of sensitive receptors and
buildings to excessive groundborne vibration.
None Required. Less than Significant
with Mitigation
NO-3. Long-term operational noise impacts would
include higher roadway noise levels from increased
vehicle traffic generated by the Project, Project
operational noise, and exposure of future residents to
high noise levels that could result in the exceedance
of thresholds in the City’s General Plan Noise
Element and Noise Guidelines.
None Required. Less than Significant
NO-4. Future residents and occupants of the Project
could be exposed to periodic high noise levels from
nearby commercial uses (e.g., delivery trucks,
forklifts, backup alarms) that would exceed City
thresholds for residential land uses.
MM NO-4 Prior to approval of park and residential development within the
Madonna Froom Ranch area of the Specific Plan, the Applicant shall submit
a project-specific noise study that evaluates the potential for noise exposure
from adjacent commercial uses and identifies project-specific design
measures to attenuate exterior and interior noise consistent with the City’s
Noise Element and Noise Ordinance. If necessary to reduce noise within
acceptable levels, noise reduction measures may include a planted earthen
berm, sound wall, or similar noise attenuating feature along the site boundary
with Irish Hills Plaza, consistent with Policy 1.8.2 of the Noise Element.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall incorporate the above
mitigation within the final FRSP prior to adoption.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance with required site design and
noise reduction measures within the final FRSP prior to adoption and shall
confirm any required noise attenuation measures are shown on construction
plans prior to issuance of building permits.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-103
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
3.11 Population and Housing
PH-1. Residential and commercial development
associated with the Project would induce population
growth.
None Required. Less than Significant
PH-2. The Project would provide additional housing
for the City, assisting the jobs-to-housing ratio.
None Required. Less than Significant
PH-3. The Project would provide additional
affordable housing for the City
None Required. Less than Significant
3.12 Public Services and Recreation
PS-1. The Project would increase demand on the
SLOPD for police protection services.
None Required. Less than Significant
PS-2. The Project would increase the demand on
SLOFD and CALFIRE for fire protection services
and create potential declines in firefighter-to-
population ratios; however, the Project would be
located within the accepted response time
performance area. Development of senior residential
uses, which are associated with higher than average
calls for emergency medical service, would increase
emergency calls for service
None Required. Less than Significant
PS-3. The Project would generate increases in
enrollment at public schools (especially C.L.
Elementary and Laguna Middle Schools).
None Required. Less than Significant
PS-4. The Project would increase the demand for
public parkland and neighborhood parks from
increased residential population.
MM PS-1 Public Parkland Requirements for Villaggio. Mitigation shall be
calculated based on actual buildout populations within Madonna Froom
Ranch. At the discretion of the Community Development Department and City
of San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation Department, and to ensure that
parkland would satisfy the needs of the proposed population of Villaggio, the
Applicant shall either:
a) Identify, purchase, and develop up to 7.32 acres of parkland, including
2.79 acres of neighborhood park, within the City’s Sphere of Influence,
consistent with City General Plan PRE Policies 3.13.1, 3.15.1, 5.0.1,
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
ES-104 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
and 5.0.2. If feasible, land for development of neighborhood park space
should be identified within interior areas of the City Sphere of Influence
to maximize use and access; or
b) Provide a contribution of fees in-lieu of dedication of parkland,
restricted solely for parkland acquisition and improvement.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The development of parkland and/or
dedication of fees shall be completed by the Applicant prior to issuance of
building permits. While coordinating with the City Parks and Recreation
Department, the Applicant shall modify the FRSP to demonstrate the
provision of recreational facilities to meet the demand of Villaggio residents
if an onsite option is selected.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure compliance with General Plan PRE
Policies 3.13.1, 3.15.1, 5.0.1, and 5.0.2, and shall ensure the above measure is
implemented prior issuance of building permits.
MM PS-2 Public Parkland Requirements for Madonna Froom Ranch. The
Applicant shall identify, designate, dedicate, and/or develop up to 1.16 acres
of public parkland into the Froom Ranch Specific Plan to be operational at
the time of buildout of the Project. Mitigation shall be calculated based on
actual buildout populations within Madonna Froom Ranch and may be
implemented using one of the following options, at the discretion of the
Community Development Department and City Parks and Recreation
Department:
a) The Applicant shall designate an additional area of up to 1.16 acres of
public facilities land use with the intention of providing parkland,
within the Specific Plan area, consistent with City General Plan PRE
Policies 3.13.1, 3.15.1, 5.0.1, and 5.0.2, or
b) The Applicant shall identify and purchase or dedicate up to 1.16 acres
of parkland within the City’s Sphere of Influence, or
c) The Applicant shall provide a contribution of fees in-lieu of dedication
of up to 1.16 acres of parkland, restricted solely for parkland
acquisition and improvement.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The development of parkland and/or
dedication of fees shall be completed by the Applicant prior to issuance of
building permits. While coordinating with the City Parks and Recreation
Department, the Applicant shall modify the FRSP to demonstrate the
provision of recreational facilities to meet the demand of Madonna Froom
Ranch residents if an onsite option is selected.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-105
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Monitoring. The City shall ensure compliance with General Plan PRE
Policies 3.13.1, 3.13.1, 5.0.1, and 5.0.2, and shall ensure the above measure is
implemented prior to issuance of building permits.
3.13 Transportation and Traffic
TRANS-1. Project construction activities would
potentially create traffic impacts due to congestion
from construction vehicles (e.g., construction trucks,
construction worker vehicles, equipment, etc.) as
well as temporary traffic lane and sidewalk closures.
MM TRANS-1 The Applicant shall prepare a Construction Transportation
Management Plan for all phases of the Project for review and approval by the
City prior to issuance of grading or building permits to address and manage
traffic during construction. The Plan shall be designed to:
• Prevent traffic impacts on the surrounding roadway network;
• Restrict construction staging to within the Project site;
• Minimize parking impacts both to public parking and access to private
parking to the greatest extent practicable;
• Ensure safety for both those construction vehicles and works and the
surrounding community; and
• Prevent substantial truck traffic through residential neighborhoods.
The Construction Transportation Management Plan shall be subject to review
and approval by the Public Works Director to ensure that the Plan has been
designed in accordance with this mitigation measure. This review shall occur
prior to issuance of grading or building permits. It shall, at a minimum,
include the following:
• Ongoing Requirements throughout the Duration of Construction:
• A detailed Construction Transportation Management Plan for work
zones shall be maintained. At a minimum, this shall include parking
and travel lane configurations; warning, regulatory, guide, and
directional signage; and area sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and parking
lanes. The Plan shall include specific information regarding the
Project’s construction activities that may disrupt normal pedestrian
and traffic flow and the measures to address these disruptions. Such
Plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development
Department and implemented in accordance with this approval.
• Heavy haul construction vehicles and cement trucks shall not pass
through Villaggio’s Lower Area access roads once any of the Lower
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
ES-106 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Area residences become occupied, and must utilize access from Calle
Joaquin to access the Upper Terrace after that time.
• Work within the public right-of-way shall be reviewed and approved by
the City on a case-by-case basis based on the magnitude and type of
construction activity. Work shall generally be performed between 8:30
AM and 4:00 PM. This work includes dirt hauling and construction
material delivery. Work within the public right-of-way outside of these
hours shall only be allowed after the issuance of an after-hours
construction permit administered by the Building and Safety Division.
Additional restrictions may be put in place by Public Works
Department depending on particular construction activities and
conditions.
• Streets and equipment shall be cleaned in accordance with established
Public Works requirements.
• Trucks shall only travel on a City-approved construction route. Limited
queuing may occur on the construction site itself.
• Materials and equipment shall be minimally visible to the public; the
preferred location for materials is to be onsite, with a minimum amount
of materials within a work area in the public right-of-way, subject to a
current Use of Public Property Permit.
• Provision of off-street parking for construction workers, which may
include the use of a remote location with shuttle transport to the site, if
determined necessary by the City.
Project Coordination Elements That Shall Be Implemented Prior to
Commencement of Construction:
• The traveling public shall be advised of impending construction
activities that may substantially affect key roadways or other facilities
(e.g., information signs, portable message signs, media
listing/notification, and implementation of an approved Construction
Impact Mitigation Plan).
• A Use of Public Property Permit, Excavation Permit, Sewer Permit, or
Oversize Load Permit, as well as any Caltrans permits required for any
construction work requiring encroachment into public rights-of-way,
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-107
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
detours, or any other work within the public right-of-way shall be
obtained.
• Timely notification of construction schedules shall be provided to all
affected agencies (e.g., Police Department, Fire Department, Public
Works Department, and Community Development Department) and to
all owners and residential and commercial tenants of property within
a radius of 0.25 mile.
• Construction work shall be coordinated with affected agencies in
advance of start of work. Approvals may take up to two weeks per each
submittal.
• Public Works Department approval of any haul routes for construction
materials and equipment deliveries shall be obtained.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit the
Construction Transportation Management Plan to the City for review and
approval prior to issuance of grading or building permits. The Construction
Transportation Management Plan shall be updated as needed to reflect
changing conditions over the Project’s five-year construction schedule. The
Applicant shall conduct necessary construction employee training prior to the
commencement of construction. The City Public Works Department,
Community Development Department, Police Department, and Fire
Department, and nearby residences and businesses shall be notified of the
construction schedule prior to initiation of construction. The Applicant shall
submit individual traffic control plans and part of encroachment permits for
work within the public right-of-way.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure compliance with the Construction
Transportation Management Plan with periodic inspections of the Project site
during construction. Complaints related to construction traffic at the site shall
be directed to the City Public Works Department.
TRANS-2. Under Existing plus Project conditions,
the addition of Project traffic would exacerbate
existing queuing and peak hour traffic for
automobiles, and poor levels of service for
pedestrians and bicycle modes of transportation,
causing transportation deficiencies in the Project
vicinity.
MM AQ-6 The Applicant shall revise the FRSP to include measures necessary
to reduce the Project’s operational, mobile-source emissions, and VMT to the
maximum extent feasible, including, but not limited to the following:
• Rideshare and Employee Ridership Programs: The FRSP shall be
amended to include measures for encouraging and incentivizing
residents and employees of the proposed development participate in the
San Luis Obispo Regional Rideshare program.
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-108 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Senior Shuttle Service: Villaggio shall provide clean fuel shuttle
services or coordinate with existing shuttle services such as Dial-A-
Ride and the Senior Go! Shuttle to provide curb-to-curb shuttle service
for residents of the Villaggio Life Community Plan.
• All Electric Small Vehicles: The FRSP shall require all personal small
vehicles (e.g., golf carts) be 100 percent electric powered.
• Car Share: Provide car-sharing opportunities within the Villaggio Life
Community Plan and Madonna Froom Ranch areas.
• Promote Carpools, Vanpools, and Electric Vehicle (EV) Vehicles:
Provide dedicated parking for carpools, vanpools, and high-efficiency
vehicles in exceedance of Cal Green Tier 2 standards.
• Offsite EV Improvements: Work with SLO County APCD to expand or
fund the expansion of EV charging stations throughout the City.
Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall include all feasible Best
Management Strategies as part of the final FRSP and final VTM. For the
selected Best Management Strategies, the Applicant shall work with City and
SLO County APCD staff to calculate estimated mobile-source emissions to
ensure emissions are reduced to the maximum extent feasible. City and SLO
County APCD staff shall ensure the above measures are incorporated into the
FRSP and final VTM prior to recordation.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are listed on the final VTM
submitted for review and approval by the City. City and SLO County APCD
staff shall work with the Applicant to ensure that these strategies are
implemented. The City shall verify compliance in consultation with the SLO
County APCD.
MM TRANS-2 The Project Applicant shall design and construct the extension
of the westbound left-turn pocket at the LOVR/U.S. 101 southbound ramps
intersection to provide a storage length of 320 feet, and design and construct
the extension of the southbound right-turn pocket at the LOVR/U.S. 101
southbound ramps intersection to provide a storage length of 140 feet. In
coordination with the Applicant, the City and Caltrans shall also optimize
traffic signal timings and coordination between LOVR/Calle Joaquin and
LOVR/U.S. 101 southbound ramps. If improvements are constructed sooner
by others, the Applicant may be responsible for a fair share contribution
towards improvement costs. This mitigation measure requires Caltrans
approval and coordination.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-109
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for roadway improvements and a Traffic
Engineering Study for signal timing recommendations for review and
approval by the City. Implementation of improvements shall be completed
prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or building permits for the
Madonna Froom Ranch development. If improvements are completed sooner
by others, the Applicant shall make a fair share contribution prior to issuance
of building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-3 The Project Applicant shall design and install measures to
restrict left turns at the South Higuera Street/Vachell Lane intersection,
extend Buckley Road from Vachell Lane to South Higuera Street, and install
a traffic signal at Buckley Road/South Higuera Street intersection. If
improvements are constructed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for a fair share contribution towards improvement costs. This
mitigation measure requires County approval and coordination.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
If improvements are completed sooner by others, the Applicant shall make a
fair share contribution prior to issuance of building permits for the Madonna
Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-4 The Project Applicant shall design and install the restriping
of the westbound approach of the South Higuera Street/Suburban Road
intersection to extend the left- and right-turn pocket storage to 250 feet. If
improvements are constructed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for a fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
ES-110 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Madonna Froom Ranch development. If
improvements are completed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for making a fair share contribution prior to issuance of building
permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-5 The Project Applicant shall extend the westbound bike lane
on Tank Farm Road approaching the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection to the intersection and install a bike box to facilitate bicycle left-
turn movements. If improvements are constructed sooner by others, the
Applicant may be responsible for a fair share contribution towards
improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development. If
improvements are completed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for a fair share contribution prior to issuance of building permits
for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-6 The Project Applicant shall design and install a second
southbound left-turn lane at the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection. The Project Applicant shall also pay fair share costs for
construction of the Prado Road Overpass/Interchange project. If intersection
improvements are constructed sooner by others, the Applicant will be
responsible for a fair share contribution towards improvement costs through
participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City for the
South Higuera/Tank Farm intersection improvements. Implementation of
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-111
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
intersection improvements shall be completed prior to the issuance of a
certificate of occupancy or building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch
development. Intersection improvement costs exceeding the Project’s
proportional share may be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill
the Project’s fair share financial obligation towards the Prado Road
Overpass/Interchange project and the South Higuera/Tank Farm Road
intersection improvements, if constructed sooner by others. Payment of City
Transportation Impact Fees shall be required prior to issuance of building
permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant pays fair share costs in
accordance to the approved phase and design plans.
MM TRANS-7 The Project Applicant shall design and install a second
northbound left-turn lane at the South Higuera Street/Prado Road
intersection, which requires the replacement of the Prado Road Bridge just
west of South Higuera. Project is responsible for implementation prior to
development of Madonna Froom Ranch, or fair share contribution through
participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program if
improvements are constructed sooner by others.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements. If improvements are completed sooner by
others, the Applicant shall make a fair share contribution through participation
in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program prior to issuance of
building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-8 The Project Applicant shall design and install Class IV
bikeways (protected bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer
between the sidewalk and vehicular traffic lanes. Improvement extents shall
occur in the northbound direction between Laguna Lane and Diablo Drive,
ES-112 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
and in the southbound direction between Diablo Drive and Madonna Road.
Project is responsible for fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-9 The Project Applicant shall design and install ADA-compliant
curb, gutter and sidewalk along the west side of LOVR to complete the
sidewalk connection between the Irish Hills Plaza and Calle Joaquin. The
Project Applicant shall also design and install Class IV bikeways (protected
bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer between the sidewalk and
vehicular traffic lanes in the northbound and southbound directions between
Madonna Road and South Higuera Street. The Project is responsible for all
costs related to construction of sidewalks, curb and gutter, and a fair share
contribution towards Class IV bikeway improvements. This mitigation
measure requires Caltrans approval and coordination for improvements near
LOVR/U.S. 101 interchange.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Bikeway improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may
be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-10 The Project Applicant shall design and install a Class I
Multi-Use Path parallel to Madonna Road between Oceanaire Drive and the
U.S. 101 southbound ramps intersection. The Project is responsible for a fair
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-113
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
share contribution towards improvements through payment of City Traffic
Impact Fees.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements. If improvements are completed sooner by
others, the Applicant shall make a fair share contribution through participation
in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program prior to issuance of
building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-11 The Project is responsible for incorporating traffic calming
measures (e.g., speed humps, bulb-outs, chicanes, etc.) into the design of
Local Road “A” prior to development of Villaggio’s Lower Area.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans.
TRANS-3. Under Near-Term plus Project (Scenario
2) conditions, the addition of Project traffic would
exacerbate existing queuing and peak hour traffic for
automobiles and poor levels of service for
pedestrians and bike modes of transportation,
causing transportation deficiencies in the Project
vicinity.
MM TRANS-2 The Project Applicant shall design and construct the extension
of the westbound left-turn pocket at the LOVR/U.S. 101 southbound ramps
intersection to provide a storage length of 320 feet, and design and construct
the extension of the southbound right-turn pocket at the LOVR/U.S. 101
southbound ramps intersection to provide a storage length of 140 feet. In
coordination with the Applicant, the City and Caltrans shall also optimize
traffic signal timings and coordination between LOVR/Calle Joaquin and
LOVR/U.S. 101 southbound ramps. If improvements are constructed sooner
by others, the Applicant may be responsible for a fair share contribution
towards improvement costs. This mitigation measure requires Caltrans
approval and coordination.
Significant and
Unavoidable
ES-114 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for roadway improvements and a Traffic
Engineering Study for signal timing recommendations for review and
approval by the City. Implementation of improvements shall be completed
prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or building permits for the
Madonna Froom Ranch development. If improvements are completed sooner
by others, the Applicant shall make a fair share contribution prior to issuance
of building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-5 The Project Applicant shall extend the westbound bike lane
on Tank Farm Road approaching the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection to the intersection and install a bike box to facilitate bicycle left-
turn movements. If improvements are constructed sooner by others, the
Applicant may be responsible for a fair share contribution towards
improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development. If
improvements are completed sooner by others, the Applicant may be
responsible for a fair share contribution prior to issuance of building permits
for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-6 The Project Applicant shall design and install a second
southbound left-turn lane at the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection. The Project Applicant shall also pay fair share costs for
construction of the Prado Road Overpass/Interchange project. If intersection
improvements are constructed sooner by others, the Applicant will be
responsible for a fair share contribution towards improvement costs through
participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-115
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City for the
South Higuera/Tank Farm intersection improvements. Implementation of
intersection improvements shall be completed prior to the issuance of a
certificate of occupancy or building permits for the Madonna Froom Ranch
development. Intersection improvement costs exceeding the Project’s
proportional share may be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill
the Project’s fair share financial obligation towards the Prado Road
Overpass/Interchange project and the South Higuera/Tank Farm Road
intersection improvements, if constructed sooner by others. Payment of City
Transportation Impact Fees shall be required prior to issuance of building
permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant pays fair share costs in
accordance to the approved phase and design plans.
MM TRANS-8 The Project Applicant shall design and install Class IV
bikeways (protected bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer
between the sidewalk and vehicular traffic lanes. Improvement extents shall
occur in the northbound direction between Laguna Lane and Diablo Drive,
and in the southbound direction between Diablo Drive and Madonna Road.
Project is responsible for fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-9 The Project Applicant shall design and install ADA-compliant
curb, gutter and sidewalk along the west side of LOVR to complete the
sidewalk connection between the Irish Hills Plaza and Calle Joaquin. The
Project Applicant shall also design and install Class IV bikeways (protected
bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer between the sidewalk and
ES-116 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
vehicular traffic lanes in the northbound and southbound directions between
Madonna Road and South Higuera Street. The Project is responsible for all
costs related to construction of sidewalks, curb and gutter, and a fair share
contribution towards Class IV bikeway improvements. This mitigation
measure requires Caltrans approval and coordination for improvements near
LOVR/U.S. 101 interchange.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Bikeway improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may
be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-12 In coordination with the County, the Project Applicant shall
coordinate and fund any costs required to optimize the traffic signal timing at
the County intersection of LOVR/Foothill Boulevard to reduce queues for the
southbound left-turn movement. This mitigation measure requires County
approval and coordination.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Traffic Engineering Study identifying recommended signal timing
modifications for review and approval by the County. Signal optimization
shall be completed to the satisfaction of the County prior to City issuance of
a certificate of occupancy or building permits for development of Villaggio’s
Lower Area.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant implements the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share to the satisfaction of the County.
MM TRANS-13 In coordination with the City, the Project Applicant shall
fund any costs required to implement Lead Pedestrian Intervals for each
pedestrian crossing phase at the LOVR/Madonna Road intersection.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Traffic Engineering Study identifying recommended signal timing
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-117
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
modifications for review and approval by the City. The proposed Lead
Pedestrian Intervals shall be installed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-14 The Project Applicant shall pay fair share costs for
construction of the Prado Road Overpass/Interchange project and
northbound U.S. 101 ramps through participation in the Citywide
Transportation Impact Fee program.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Participation in the Citywide
Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill the Project’s fair share
financial obligation towards the Prado Road Overpass/Interchange project.
Payment of City Transportation Impact Fees shall be required prior to
issuance of building permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant contributes an
appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-15 In coordination with the City, the Project Applicant shall
fund any costs required to implement Lead Pedestrian Intervals for each
pedestrian crossing phase at the South Higuera Street/Tank Farm Road
intersection.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Traffic Engineering Study identifying recommended signal timing
modifications for review and approval by the City. The proposed Lead
Pedestrian Intervals shall be installed prior to the issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-16 The Project Applicant shall design and install improvements
to extend the northbound right-turn pocket storage at the South Higuera
Street/Tank Farm Road intersection to 230 feet. If improvements are
constructed sooner by others, the Applicant may be responsible for a fair
share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
ES-118 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City. The
proposed improvements shall be completed prior to the issuance of an
occupancy or building permit for Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements. If constructed sooner by others,
participation in the Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill
the Project’s fair share financial obligation. Payment of City Transportation
Impact Fees shall be required prior to issuance of building permits for each
development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-17 The Project Applicant shall design and install restriping
modifications at the South Higuera Street/Prado Road intersection to
accommodate a second southbound left-turn lane and second eastbound
through lane. This requires striping modifications, potential street parking
removal on the eastern leg of the intersection, and potential traffic signal
modifications to accommodate the modified intersection configuration. If
intersection improvements are constructed sooner by others, the Applicant
will be responsible for a fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for the Madonna Froom Ranch development. Improvement
costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible for fee credits
or reimbursements. If constructed sooner by others, participation in the
Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill the Project’s fair
share financial obligation. Payment of City Transportation Impact Fees shall
be required prior to issuance of building permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-18 In coordination with the City and Caltrans, the Project
Applicant shall fund any costs required to optimize traffic signal timings at
three intersections along LOVR between Calle Joaquin and the U.S. 101
northbound ramps to improve traffic coordination and operations along this
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-119
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
roadway segment. These intersections include LOVR/Calle Joaquin,
LOVR/U.S. 101 southbound ramps, and LOVR/U.S. 101 northbound ramps.
This requires coordination with Caltrans.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Traffic Engineering Study identifying recommended signal timing
modifications for review and approval by the City and Caltrans. Signal
optimization shall be completed to the satisfaction of the City and Caltrans
prior to City issuance of a certificate of occupancy or building permits for
Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-19 The Project Applicant shall design and install restriping
modifications at the LOVR/Madonna Road intersection to increase turn
pocket storage to 365 feet and optimize signal timings to improve operations
and reduce queuing at the SB left-turn lane. If intersection improvements are
constructed sooner by others, the Applicant will be responsible for a fair share
contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for the Madonna Froom Ranch development. Improvement
costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible for fee credits
or reimbursements. If constructed sooner by others, participation in the
Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill the Project’s fair
share financial obligation. Payment of City Transportation Impact Fees shall
be required prior to issuance of building permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-20 The Project Applicant shall modify the traffic signal at the
Madonna Road/Dalidio Drive intersection to provide EB right-turn overlap
phase concurrent with NB left-turn phase. If intersection improvements are
constructed sooner by others, the Applicant will be responsible for a fair share
contribution towards improvement costs.
ES-120 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for the Madonna Froom Ranch development. Improvement
costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible for fee credits
or reimbursements. If constructed sooner by others, participation in the
Citywide Transportation Impact Fee program will fulfill the Project’s fair
share financial obligation. Payment of City Transportation Impact Fees shall
be required prior to issuance of building permits for each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
TRANS-4. The Project would result in traffic safety
impacts and inadequate emergency access and
evacuation options, resulting in potential for
structural damage, injuries, or loss of life due to
wildland fires or other emergency situations.
MM HAZ-4 The Applicant shall prepare and implement an Evacuation Plan,
which shall address both Villaggio and Madonna Froom Ranch areas. The
Evacuation Plan shall be subject to review by the City and SLOFD, and shall
include, but not be limited to:
• Accommodation for assisted living and special care individuals;
• Shelter-in-place accommodations;
• Specified quantity and capacity of vehicles required to accommodate
residents and employees of Villaggio, and maintenance of those
vehicles;
• Signage that clearly indicates evacuation routes and meeting areas;
• Specified egress points for transportation vehicles;
• A relocation plan from the Project site to a secondary facility, with
associated transportation;
• Contingency plans for changes to the construction schedule or phasing
plan that would affect the primary evacuation plan and routes;
• Periodic updates that would consider potential redevelopment
activities or other roadway alterations; and
• Regular practice drills (e.g., one per year) for implementation of the
Evacuation Plan.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The above Evacuation Plan shall be
prepared in coordination with the SLOFD and the San Luis Obispo County
Fire Department and submitted for approval to the City and SLOFD prior to
adoption of the Final VTTM. The Applicant shall resubmit the Plan to the City
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-121
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
and SLOFD prior to the construction of each phase of development. Prior to
occupancy of the first residential unit, the Applicant shall implement measures
within the Evacuation Plan.
Monitoring. The City and SLOFD shall review the Evacuation Plan and
ensure all recommendations are incorporated. The City Fire Marshall shall
inspect the Project site for compliance prior to the occupancy of the first
residential unit for each phase.
MM TRANS-21 The Project shall include a landscaped median along LOVR
from the terminus of the existing median at northern Project frontage to Calle
Joaquin. Project is responsible for construction of median improvements
prior to occupancy of the Lower Area of Villaggio, or fair-share contribution
if constructed by others sooner.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above median improvement prior to adoption and submitted
to the City for review and approval. The median shall be integrated to the final
VTM prior to approval of development plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
final FRSP prior to Project approval.
MM TRANS-22 The Project shall include an emergency access point from
Villaggio’s Lower Area to the Irish Hills Natural Reserve to provide access
to the existing dirt road network to fight fires in Irish Hills, specifically to Neil
Havlik Way which connects to the four utility power line structures at the top
of the ridgeline. This access point may be gated to ensure site security in
consultation with SLOFD.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above emergency access connection prior to adoption and
submitted to the City and SLOFD for review and approval. The above access
road shall be integrated to the final VTM prior to approval of development
plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
final FRSP prior to Project approval.
MM TRANS-23 The Project shall integrate access to the Project site
perimeters for defending the Project site development. Specifically, these
measures should address access to the wildland area immediately abutting
the western boundary of Villaggio’s Lower Area. This measure shall include
access from the proposed Local Road “C” to the Irish Hills, which may
include use of space between proposed buildings for firefighting vehicle
ES-122 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
access, ramps up proposed retaining walls, and similar vehicle infrastructure
to maintain access to the base of the Irish Hills.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above emergency access connection along the Irish Hills prior
to adoption, and submitted to the City and SLOFD for review and approval.
The above access road shall be integrated to the final VTM prior to approval
of development plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into
the final FRSP prior to Project approval.
TRANS-5. Onsite circulation would result in safety
impacts to pedestrian and bicycle access.
MM TRANS-24 To address pedestrian and bicycle circulation safety issues,
the following modifications to the preliminary Project concept designs
throughout the Project site are recommended based on design guidance
published by National Association of City Transportation Officials and the
Federal Highway Administration:
• Install pedestrian refuges within center medians at north and south legs
of the LOVR/Auto Park Way intersection;
• Install a single northbound left-turn lane at the LOVR/Auto Park Way
intersection in lieu of dual left-turn lanes, as currently proposed, to
shorten pedestrian crossing distance at the south leg of the intersection.
• Install a bulb-out at the southwest corner of the intersection to shorten
pedestrian crossing distance at the south leg of the LOVR/Auto Park
Way intersection;
• Install Lead Pedestrian Intervals at all pedestrian crossings at the
LOVR/Auto Park Way intersection;
• Install protected bicycle intersection features as part of signalization
and intersection improvements at the LOVR/Auto Park Way
intersection, consistent with planned improvements at the nearby
LOVR/Froom Ranch Way and Madonna Road/Dalidio Drive
intersections;
• Provide physically protected bicycle lanes (Class IV bikeway) along
LOVR approaching/departing the Auto Park Way intersection and
along Commercial Collector “A”. The Class IV bikeways shall be
installed on-street with a physical barrier between cyclists and
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-123
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
vehicular traffic or by constructing raised bicycle facilities at the
sidewalk level adjacent to pedestrian sidewalks;
• Sidewalks shall be provided within the Madonna Froom Ranch
development area of the Project site as per City standards; and
• Sidewalk design shall meet ADA requirements for a comfortable
walking environment.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The final FRSP shall be amended to
incorporate the above improvements prior to adoption and submitted to the
City and SLOFD for review and approval. The above improvements shall be
integrated to the final VTM prior to approval of development plans.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the above measure is incorporated into the
final FRSP prior to Project approval.
TRANS-6. Under long-term Cumulative plus Project
conditions, Project-generated traffic would result in a
cumulatively considerable contribution to traffic for
automobiles and poor levels of service for
pedestrians and bike modes of transportation,
causing transportation deficiencies in the Project
vicinity.
MM TRANS-8 The Project Applicant shall design and install Class IV
bikeways (protected bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer
between the sidewalk and vehicular traffic lanes. Improvement extents shall
occur in the northbound direction between Laguna Lane and Diablo Drive,
and in the southbound direction between Diablo Drive and Madonna Road.
Project is responsible for fair share contribution towards improvement costs.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may be eligible
for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-9 The Project Applicant shall design and install ADA-compliant
curb, gutter and sidewalk along the west side of LOVR to complete the
sidewalk connection between the Irish Hills Plaza and Calle Joaquin. The
Project Applicant shall also design and install Class IV bikeways (protected
bike lanes) along LOVR to provide a physical buffer between the sidewalk and
vehicular traffic lanes in the northbound and southbound directions between
Madonna Road and South Higuera Street. The Project is responsible for all
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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costs related to construction of sidewalks, curb and gutter, and a fair share
contribution towards Class IV bikeway improvements. This mitigation
measure requires Caltrans approval and coordination for improvements near
LOVR/U.S. 101 interchange.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City.
Implementation shall be completed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Bikeway improvement costs exceeding the Project’s proportional share may
be eligible for fee credits or reimbursements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-13 In coordination with the City, the Project Applicant shall
fund any costs required to implement Lead Pedestrian Intervals for each
pedestrian crossing phase at the LOVR/Madonna Road intersection.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Villaggio’s Lower Area, the Applicant shall submit
a Traffic Engineering Study identifying recommended signal timing
modifications for review and approval by the City. The proposed Lead
Pedestrian Intervals shall be installed prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or building permits for Villaggio’s Lower Area development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
MM TRANS-25 In coordination with the County, the Project Applicant shall
pay its fair share fees to fund modifications to the northbound approach at the
LOVR/Foothill Boulevard intersection to provide one left-turn, two through,
and one right-turn lane, or similar operational improvements to the
satisfaction of the County Public Works Director. Additional minor traffic
signal, striping, and signage modifications may be required for
implementation of these improvements. This mitigation measure requires
County approval and coordination.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan and Engineer’s Estimate of Probable Cost
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for review and approval by the County. The Applicant shall pay its fair share
fees to the County prior to the issuance of an occupancy or building permit
for Madonna Froom Ranch development to fund implementation of the future
intersection improvements.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant provides the required
design plans and contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the
County in accordance to the approved development phase.
MM TRANS-26 The Project Applicant shall pay its fair share fees to fund
striping modifications to extend the northbound left-turn pocket at the
LOVR/Royal Way intersection to 150 feet, and to optimize the traffic signal
timings along the LOVR corridor between Descanso Street and South Higuera
Street. This mitigation measure requires Caltrans approval and coordination.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall pay its fair
share fees to the City.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant contributes an
appropriate fair share as approved by the City and that adequate funding is
collected to implement these improvements.
MM TRANS-27 In coordination with the City, the Project Applicant shall pay
its fair share fees to fund the implementation of Lead Pedestrian Intervals for
each pedestrian crossing phase at the LOVR/Calle Joaquin intersection.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall pay its fair
share fees to the City.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant contributes an
appropriate fair share as approved by the City and that adequate funding is
collected to implement these improvements.
MM TRANS-28 The Project Applicant shall pay its fair share fees to fund the
extension of the southbound left-turn pocket storage at the South Higuera
Street/Tank Farm Road intersection to 300 feet.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall pay its fair
share fees to the City.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant contributes an
appropriate fair share as approved by the City and that adequate funding is
collected to implement these improvements.
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MM TRANS-29 The Project Applicant shall pay its fair share fee to the City
to fund the extension of the westbound right-turn pocket storage at the
Madonna Road/Oceanaire Drive intersection to 200 feet. This may require
replacement of the existing culvert on Madonna Road east of Oceanaire
Drive.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to issuance of an occupancy or
building permit for Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall pay its fair
share fees to the City.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant contributes an
appropriate fair share as approved by the City and that adequate funding is
collected to implement these improvements.
MM TRANS-30 The Project Applicant shall coordinate and fund the City to
modify the traffic signal phasing and timing plans at the Madonna
Road/Dalidio Drive intersection to provide an eastbound right-turn overlap
phase concurrent with the northbound left-turn phase. The Applicant shall be
responsible for implementation prior to development of Madonna Froom
Ranch or fair share contribution if constructed sooner by others.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Prior to grading and recordation of the final
VTM for development of Madonna Froom Ranch, the Applicant shall submit
a Public Street Improvement Plan for review and approval by the City. The
proposed improvements shall be completed prior to the issuance of an
occupancy permit for Madonna Froom Ranch development.
Monitoring. The City shall verify that the Applicant installs the
improvements in accordance to the approved phase and design plans or
contributes an appropriate fair share as approved by the City.
3.14 Utilities and Energy Conservation
UT-1. The Project would require the expansion of
utility infrastructure to serve new development,
including water, sewer, natural gas, and electricity
into the site; the construction of which could cause
environmental effects.
MM AQ-1 A Construction Activity Management Plan (CAMP) shall be
included as part of Project grading and building plans and shall be submitted
to SLO County APCD and to the City for review and approval prior to the
start of construction. The plan shall include but not be limited to the following
elements:
1. A Dust Control Management Plan that encompasses the following dust
control measures:
• Reduce the amount of disturbed area where possible;
• Water trucks or sprinkler trucks shall be used during construction
to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
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Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
from leaving the site and from exceeding the APCD’s limit of 20
percent opacity for greater than 3 minutes in any 60-minute
period. At a minimum, this would require twice-daily applications.
Increased watering frequency would be required when wind
speeds exceed 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water or the
onsite water well (non-potable) shall be used when possible. The
contractor or builder shall consider the use of a SLO County
APCD-approved dust suppressant where feasible to reduce the
amount of water used for dust control;
• All dirt stock-pile areas shall be sprayed daily as needed;
• Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved
Project revegetation and landscape plans of any development
within the Specific Plan area should be implemented as soon as
possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities;
• Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates
greater than one month after initial grading shall be sown with a
fast germinating native grass seed and watered until vegetation is
established;
• All disturbed soil areas not subject to revegetation shall be
stabilized using approved chemical soil binders, jute netting, or
other methods approved in advance by SLO County APCD;
• All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc. to be paved should be
completed as soon as possible. In addition, building pads should
be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil
binders are used;
• Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph
on any unpaved surface at the construction site;
• All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to
be covered or shall maintain at least 2 feet of freeboard in
accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 23114;
• Designate access points and require all employees,
subconsultants, and others to use them. Install and operate a
“track-out prevention device” where vehicles enter and exit
unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device
can be any device or combination of devices that are effective at
preventing track-out, located at the point of intersection of any
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unpaved area and a paved road. If utilized, rumble strips or steel
plate devices shall be cleaned periodically. If paved roadways
accumulate tracked-out soils, the track-out prevention device shall
be modified or replaced to prevent track-out;
• Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is
carried onto adjacent paved roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed
water should be used where feasible;
• All of these fugitive dust mitigation measures shall be shown on
grading and building plans; and
• The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to
monitor the fugitive dust control emissions and enhance the
implementation of the measures as necessary to minimize dust
complaints, reduce visible emissions below 20 percent opacity, and
to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include
holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress.
The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided
to SLO County APCD Compliance Division prior to the start of
any grading, earthwork or demolition.
2. Implementation of the following BACT for diesel-fueled construction
equipment. The BACT measures shall include:
• Use of at least Tier 3 off-road equipment and 2010 on-road
compliant engines;
• Repowering equipment with the cleanest engines available; and
• Installing California Verified Diesel Emission Control Strategies.
3. Implementation of the following standard air quality measures to
minimize diesel emissions:
• Maintain all construction equipment in proper tune according to
manufacturer’s specifications;
• Fuel all off-road and portable diesel-powered equipment with
CARB-certified motor vehicle diesel fuel (non-taxed version
suitable for use off-road).
• Use on-road heavy-duty trucks that meet the CARB’s 2007 or
cleaner certification standard for on-road heavy-duty diesel
engines and comply with the State On-Road Regulation;
• Construction or trucking companies with fleets that do not have
engines in their fleet that meet the engine standards identified in
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the above two measures (e.g. captive or NOx exempt area fleets)
may be eligible by proving alternative compliance;
• On- and off-road diesel equipment shall not be allowed to idle for
more than five minutes. Signs shall be posted in the designated
queuing areas to remind drivers and operators of the five-minute
idling limit;
• Diesel idling within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors is not
permitted;
• Staging and queing areas shall not be loated within 1,000 feet of
sensitive receptors;
• Electrify equipment when feasible;
• Substitute gasoline-powered in place of diesel-powered
equipment, where feasible; and,
• Use alternatively fueled construction equipment onsite where
feasible, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural
gas (LNG), propane or biodiesel.
4. Tabulation of on- and off-road construction equipment (age, horse-
power, and miles and/or hours of operation);
5. Schedule construction truck trips during non-peak hours (as
determined by the Public Works Director) to reduce peak hour
emissions; and
6. Limit the length of the construction work-day period to 8 hours max.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The CAMP shall be submitted to SLO
County APCD and to the City for review and approval prior to issuance of
grading and construction permits and recordation of the final VTM. All
required fugitive dust and emissions control measures shall be noted on all
grading and building plans and all construction activities shall adhere to
measures throughout all grading, hauling, and construction activities. The
contractor or builder shall provide the City Community Development Director
and SLO County APCD with the name and contact information for an
assigned onsite dust and emissions control monitor(s) who has the
responsibility to: a) assure all dust control requirements are complied with
including those covering weekends and holidays, b) order increased watering
as necessary to prevent transport of dust offsite, and c) attend the pre-
construction meeting. The dust monitor shall be designated prior to grading
permit issuance for each Project phase. The dust control components apply
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from the beginning of any grading or construction throughout all development
activities until occupancy is issued and landscaping is successfully installed.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are depicted on the CAMP and
all submitted grading and construction plans for each Project phase. The
Applicant shall be responsible for compliance during construction activities,
including holidays or weekends when work may not be in progress. City
grading and building inspectors shall spot check and ensure compliance
onsite.
MM BIO-1 The Applicant shall prepare and implement a Biological
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan that identifies both construction and
operational related avoidance, reduction, and mitigation measures for
impacts to sensitive natural communities. The Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to avoid
or minimize impacts to biological resources, and implementation of on and
offsite habitat replacement as follows:
1) The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the
following construction-related measures and BMPs:
a) Construction equipment and vehicles shall be stored at least 100
feet away from existing and proposed drainage features and
adjacent riparian habitat, and all construction vehicle
maintenance shall be performed in a designated offsite vehicle
storage and maintenance area approved by the City.
b) Prior to commencement of construction, Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4
and all associated springs, seeps, and wetlands shall be protected
with construction fencing located a minimum of 25 feet from the
edge of the stream channel or top of bank and signed to prohibit
entry of construction equipment and personnel unless authorized
by the City. Fencing shall be maintained throughout the
construction period for each phase of development. Fencing and
signage shall be removed following completion of construction.
c) During any construction activities within 50 feet of the existing
Froom Creek channel, realigned Froom Creek channel, LOVR
ditch, Drainages 1, 2, 3, or 4, or other existing or proposed
drainage features, a City-approved biological monitor shall be
present and have the authority to stop or redirect work as needed
to protect biological resources.
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d) All construction materials (e.g., fuels, chemicals, building
materials) shall be stored at designated construction staging
areas, which shall be located outside of designated sensitive areas.
Should spills occur, materials and/or contaminants shall be
cleaned immediately and recycled or disposed of to the satisfaction
of the RWQCB.
e) All trash and construction debris shall be properly disposed at the
end of each day and dumpsters shall be covered either with locking
lids or with plastic sheeting at the end of each workday and during
storm events. All sheeting shall be carefully secured to withstand
weather conditions.
f) The Applicant shall implement measures designed to minimize
construction-related erosion and retain sediment on the Project
site, including installation of silt fencing, straw waddles, or other
acceptable construction erosion control devices. Such measures
shall be installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas and along
the top of the bank of the existing and proposed Froom Creek
channel and other existing or proposed drainage features and 25
feet from the edge of Drainages 1, 2, 3, and 4. All drainage shall
be directed to sediment basins designed to retain all sediment
onsite.
g) Concrete truck and tool washout shall occur in a designated
location such that no runoff will reach the creek, onsite drainages,
or other sensitive areas.
h) All open trenches shall be constructed with appropriate exit ramps
to allow species that fall into a trench to escape. All open trenches
shall be inspected at the beginning of each work day to ensure that
no wildlife species is present. Any sensitive wildlife species found
during inspections shall be gently encouraged to leave the Project
site by a qualified biologist or otherwise trained and City-
approved personnel. Trenches will remain open for the shortest
period necessary to complete required work.
i) Existing disturbed areas shall be used for construction staging and
storage to the maximum extent possible to minimize disturbance of
undeveloped habitats. All construction access roads and staging
areas shall be located to avoid known/mapped habitat and
minimize habitat fragmentation.
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Plan Requirements and Timing. The Biological Mitigation and Monitoring
Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the City prior to issuance
of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM. The plan shall
incorporate any additional measures or requirements identified by state and
federal agencies, including but not limited to CDFW, RWQCB, NMFS, and
USFWS. The Applicant shall prepare a Biological Mitigation Plan that
identifies and incorporates all required measures identified in MM BIO-2
through MM BIO-12 below. The plan shall specify all mitigation site
locations, timing of surveys and activities, species composition, habitat
compensation, species avoidance measures, and other required information,
including identification of appropriate onsite construction staging locations.
The plan shall demonstrate compliance with all required measures and any
required permits shall be obtained from state and federal regulatory agencies
prior to the issuance of grading or building permits. A 7-year site mitigation
monitoring plan shall also be prepared by the City-approved biologist and
incorporated into the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan prior to
issuance of grading permits and recordation of the final VTM, with annual
reports submitted to the City Natural Resources Manager and Community
Development Department.
Monitoring. The City shall review and approve the Biological Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan to ensure that all BMPs and appropriate mitigation measures
have been included. The City shall ensure compliance with requirements of
the Biological Mitigation and Monitoring Plan through frequent monitoring
and inspection, and receipt of quarterly monitoring reports provided by the
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator required per MM BIO-2. The
Applicant’s Environmental Coordinator shall also ensure compliance during
habitat compensation and/or restoration activities through routine monitoring,
inspection, and reporting of restoration activities.
MM CR-3 Prior to issuance of grading or building permits, and recordation
of the final map, an Archaeological Monitoring Plan (AMP) shall be
prepared. The AMP should include, but not be limited to, the following:
• A list of personnel involved in the monitoring activities;
• Description of Native American involvement;
• Description of how the monitoring shall occur;
• Description of location and frequency of monitoring (e.g., full time,
part time, spot checking);
• Description of what resources are expected to be encountered;
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• Description of circumstances that would result in the halting of work
at the project site;
• Description of procedures for halting work on the site and notification
procedures;
• Description of monitoring reporting procedures; and
• Provide specific, detailed protocols for what to do in the event of the
discovery of human remains.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The AMP shall be prepared by a City-
approved archaeologist prior to issuance of grading or building permits and
recordation of the final map.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure the AMP is prepared by a City-approved
archaeologist and consistent with City Archeological Resource Preservation
Program Guidelines.
MM CR-4 The Applicant shall retain a City-approved archaeologist and local
Native American observer to monitor Project-related ground-disturbing
activities that have the potential to encounter previously unidentified
archaeological resources, as outlined in the AMP prepared to satisfy MM CR-
1. Archaeological and tribal monitoring may cease only if the City-approved
archaeologist determines in coordination with the Applicant, Community
Development Director, and the Native American monitor that Project
activities do not have the potential to encounter and/or disturb unknown
resources.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The conditions for monitoring and
treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all building and grading plans.
Prior to issuance of building and grading permits for each phase of the Project,
the Applicant shall submit to the City a contract or Letter of Commitment with
a qualified archaeologist and Native American monitor. The City shall review
and approve the selected archaeologist to ensure they meet appropriate
professional qualification standards, consistent with the City’s Archeological
Resource Preservation Guidelines.
Monitoring. City permit compliance staff shall confirm monitoring by the
archaeologist and tribal representative and City grading inspectors shall spot
check fieldwork. The Native American monitor and Project archaeologist
shall ensure that actions consistent with this mitigation measure are
implemented in the event of any inadvertent discovery.
MM CR-5 In the event of any inadvertent discovery of prehistoric
archaeological resources, including but not limited to stone, bone, glass,
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ceramics, fossils, wood, or shell artifacts, or historic-period archaeological
resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall immediately cease
(or greater or lesser distance as needed to protect the discovery and
determined in the field by the City-approved archaeologist). The Applicant
and/or contractor shall immediately notify the City Community Development
Department. The City-approved archaeologist shall evaluate the significance
of the discovery pursuant to City Archaeological Resource Preservation
Program Guidelines prior to resuming any activities that could impact the
site/discovery. If the City-approved archaeologist or Native American
monitor determine that the find may qualify for listing in the CRHR or as a
tribal cultural resource, the site shall be avoided or shall be subject to a Phase
II or III mitigation program consistent with City Archeological Resource
Preservation Program Guidelines and funded by the Applicant. Work shall
not resume until authorization is received from the City.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The conditions for monitoring and
treatment of discoveries shall be printed on all building and grading plans.
Prior to issuance of building and grading permits for each phase of the Project,
the Applicant shall submit to the City a contract or Letter of Commitment with
identified Project archaeologist and Native American monitor. The City shall
review and approve the selected archaeologist to ensure they meet appropriate
professional qualification standards, consistent with the Archeological
Resource Preservation Program Guidelines.
Monitoring. City permit compliance staff shall confirm monitoring by the
archaeologist and tribal representative and City grading inspectors shall spot
check fieldwork. The Native American monitor and Project archaeologist
shall ensure that actions consistent with this mitigation measure are
implemented in the event of any inadvertent discovery.
MM HAZ-1 The Applicant shall prepare and submit a Construction Impact
Management Plan to the City of San Luis Obispo Fire Department (SLOFD)
prior to the issuance of grading permits. The Plan shall list measures taken
during construction to reduce the potential for brush or grass fires from use
of heavy equipment, welding, vehicles with catalytic converters, and other
potential activities. The Plan shall include SLOFD recommended measures
including, but not limited to the following:
• All equipment with the potential to work off-road shall be equipped with
appropriate mufflers and have extinguishers mounted on each vehicle;
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• In coordination with SLOFD, personnel shall be briefed on the dangers
of wildfire and be able to respond accordingly should the need arise;
• Onsite supervisor(s) shall have a cell phone or other means of initiating
a 911 response time in a timely manner in the event of a medical
emergency and/or fire;
• All dead and decadent vegetation immediately surrounding the
development area shall be removed to a minimum perimeter of 30 feet;
• Smoking shall only occur in a designated area;
• A water tender will be available on each construction site during the
entire phase of construction; and
• A water tender operator shall be available onsite during all
construction and remain onsite a minimum of 30 minutes after all
construction has finished for the day.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare a Construction
Impact Management Plan in coordination with SLOFD, the San Luis Obispo
County Fire Department, and the City, and submit the Plan to the SLOFD for
approval prior to the issuance of grading permits. Provisions for fire protection
shall be restated on all grading and building plans. Fire protection measures
shall be implemented throughout construction and draw upon the CALFIRE
and San Luis Obispo County Fire Department Strategic Fire Plan. The name
and telephone number of an onsite supervisor shall be provided to SLOFD
prior to commencement of construction or grading activities.
Monitoring. The SLOFD shall review the Construction Impact Management
Plan and provide recommended measures as necessary. The City permit
processing planner shall ensure measures are integrated into the final
grading and building plans prior to permit approval. City monitoring staff
shall spot check for compliance during construction for each phase of
development.
MM HYD-1 Prior to the issuance of any construction/grading permit and/or
the commencement of any clearing, grading, or excavation, the Applicant
shall submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) for discharge from the Project site to the
California SWRCB Storm Water Permit Unit.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The NOI shall be submitted for review and
approval to the SWRCB. The City will verify that a Waste Discharge
Identification (WDID) number is assigned by the Board prior to the issuance
of grading permits for construction activities. The NOI shall address discharge
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during all phases of development of the site until all disturbed areas are
permanently stabilized.
Monitoring. The City will confirm WDID number assignment prior to
approval of the grading permit(s). City monitoring staff will periodically
inspect the site during construction to ensure compliance.
MM HYD-2 For each phase of construction, the Applicant shall require the
building contractor to prepare and submit a Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to the City 45 days prior to the start of work for
approval. The contractor is responsible for understanding the State General
Permit and instituting the SWPPP during construction. A SWPPP for site
construction shall be developed prior to the initiation of grading and
implemented for all construction activity on the Project site in excess of 1
acre, or where the area of disturbance is less than 1 acre but is part of the
Project’s plan of development that in total disturbs 1 or more acres. The
SWPPP shall identify potential pollutant sources that may affect the quality
of discharges to stormwater and shall include specific BMPs to control the
discharge of material from the site, including, but not limited to:
• Temporary detention basins, straw bales, sand bagging, mulching,
erosion control blankets, silt fencing, and soil stabilizers shall be used.
• Sufficient physical protection and pollution prevention measures to
prevent sedimentation, siltation, and/or debris from entering the Calle
Joaquin wetlands.
• Soil stockpiles and graded slopes shall be covered after 14 days of
inactivity and 24 hours prior to and during inclement weather
conditions.
• Fiber rolls shall be placed along the top of exposed slopes and at the
toes of graded areas to reduce surface soil movement, as necessary.
• A routine monitoring plan shall be implemented to ensure success of
all onsite erosion and sedimentation control measures.
• Dust control measures shall be implemented to ensure success of all
onsite activities to control fugitive dust.
• Streets surrounding the Project site shall be cleaned daily or as
necessary.
• BMPs shall be strictly followed to prevent spills and discharges of
pollutants onsite (material and container storage, proper trash
disposal, construction entrances, etc.).
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• Sandbags, or other equivalent techniques, shall be utilized along
graded areas to prevent siltation transport to the surrounding areas.
• Additional BMPs shall be implemented for any fuel storage or fuel
handling that could occur onsite during construction. The SWPPP must
be prepared in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the SWRCB.
The SWPPP shall be submitted to the City along with
grading/development plans for review and approval. The Applicant
shall file a Notice of Completion for construction of the development,
identifying that pollution sources were controlled during the
construction of the Project and implementing a closure SWPPP for the
site.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall prepare a SWPPP that
includes the above and any additional required BMPs addressing each phase
of construction and timing. The SWPPP and notices shall be submitted to the
SWRCB under their Stormwater Multi-Application, Reporting, and Tracking
System (SMARTS). The SWPPP shall be designed to address erosion and
sediment control during all phases of development of the site until all
disturbed areas are permanently stabilized. The development plans submitted
to the City shall include and reflect the erosion control plan and BMPs
submitted to the State.
Monitoring. City monitoring staff shall periodically inspect the site for
compliance with the SWPPP during grading to monitor runoff and after
conclusion of grading activities. A Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) will
be retained by the developer for overall management and reporting
responsibility regarding the SWPPP and documentation under SMARTS in
accordance with their permitting requirement. The Applicant will keep a copy
of the SWPPP on the Project site during grading and construction activities.
MM NO-1 Except for emergency repair of public service utilities, or where
an exception is issued by the Community Development Department, no
operation of tools or equipment used in construction, drilling, repair,
alteration, or demolition work shall occur between the hours of 7:00 PM and
7:00 AM, or any time on Sundays, holidays, or after sunset, such that the
sound creates a noise disturbance that exceeds 75 dBA for single-family
residential uses, 80 dBA for multi-family residential uses, and 85 dBA for
mixed residential/commercial land uses, as shown in Table 3.10-9 and Table
3.10-10, across a residential or commercial property line.
ES-138 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Plan Requirements and Timing. Plans submitted for grading and building
permits shall clearly indicate construction hours and shall be submitted to the
City for approval prior to grading and building permit issuance for each
Project phase. To ensure response to and resolution of potential public noise
nuisance complaints, plans submitted for grading and building permits shall
clearly identify the Project’s construction manager (or similar) and 24-hour
contact information. At the pre-construction meeting required for all phases
of grading and development, all construction workers shall be briefed on
restricted construction hour limitations. A workday schedule shall be adhered
to for the duration of construction for all phases.
Monitoring. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall
perform periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules
and respond to complaints.
MM NO-2 For all construction activity at the Project site, noise attenuation
techniques shall be employed to ensure that noise levels are maintained within
levels allowed by the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, Title 9,
Chapter 9.12 (Noise Control). Such techniques shall include:
• Sound blankets on noise-generating equipment.
• Stationary construction equipment that generates noise levels above 65
dBA at the Project boundaries shall be shielded with a barrier that
meets a sound transmission class (a rating of how well noise barriers
attenuate sound) of 25.
• All diesel equipment shall be operated with closed engine doors and
shall be equipped with factory-recommended mufflers.
• Temporary sound barriers shall be constructed between construction
sites and affected uses.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall designate the proposed
area of operation of stationary construction equipment and depict acoustic
shielding around these areas on building and grading plans. Equipment and
shielding shall be installed prior to construction and remain in the designated
location throughout construction activities. Construction plans shall identify
Best Management Practices (BMPs) to be implemented during construction.
All construction workers shall be briefed at a pre-construction meeting on
how, why, and where BMP measures are to be implemented. BMPs shall be
identified and described for submittal to the City for review and approval prior
to building or grading permit issuance. BMPs shall be adhered to for the
duration of the Project. Construction plans shall include truck routes and shall
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
be submitted to the City prior to grading and building permit issuance for each
Project phase.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance throughout all construction
phases. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall perform
periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules.
MM NO-3 The Applicant shall inform landowners and business operators at
properties within 300 feet of the Project site of proposed construction
timelines and noise complaint procedures to minimize potential annoyance or
nuisance complaints related to construction noise no less than 10 days prior
to initiation of any grading and construction activity for any Phase. The notice
shall include the name and contact information of the Project’s construction
manager and contact information for the City’s Community Development
Department.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall provide and post signs
stating these restrictions and the Project’s construction manager’s name and
contact information at construction site entries. Signs shall be posted prior to
commencement of construction and maintained throughout construction of
any Phase. The construction schedule and mailing list shall be submitted to
the City Community Development Department 10 days prior to initiation of
any earth movement.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance throughout all construction
phases. The Applicant’s permit compliance monitoring staff shall perform
periodic site inspections to verify compliance with activity schedules and
respond to complaints.
MM NO-4 Prior to approval of park and residential development within the
Madonna Froom Ranch area of the Specific Plan, the Applicant shall submit
a project-specific noise study that evaluates the potential for noise exposure
from adjacent commercial uses and identifies project-specific design
measures to attenuate exterior and interior noise consistent with the City’s
Noise Element and Noise Ordinance. If necessary to reduce noise within
acceptable levels, noise reduction measures may include a planted earthen
berm, sound wall, or similar noise attenuating feature along the site boundary
with Irish Hills Plaza, consistent with Policy 1.8.2 of the Noise Element.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall incorporate the above
mitigation within the final FRSP prior to adoption.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure compliance with required site design and
noise reduction measures within the final FRSP prior to adoption and shall
ES-140 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
confirm any required noise attenuation measures are shown on construction
plans prior to issuance of building permits.
MM TRANS-1 The Applicant shall prepare a Construction Transportation
Management Plan for all phases of the Project for review and approval by the
City prior to issuance of grading or building permits to address and manage
traffic during construction. The Plan shall be designed to:
• Prevent traffic impacts on the surrounding roadway network;
• Restrict construction staging to within the Project site;
• Minimize parking impacts both to public parking and access to private
parking to the greatest extent practicable;
• Ensure safety for both those construction vehicles and works and the
surrounding community; and
• Prevent substantial truck traffic through residential neighborhoods.
The Construction Transportation Management Plan shall be subject to review
and approval by the Public Works Director to ensure that the Plan has been
designed in accordance with this mitigation measure. This review shall occur
prior to issuance of grading or building permits. It shall, at a minimum,
include the following:
• Ongoing Requirements throughout the Duration of Construction:
• A detailed Construction Transportation Management Plan for work
zones shall be maintained. At a minimum, this shall include parking
and travel lane configurations; warning, regulatory, guide, and
directional signage; and area sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and parking
lanes. The Plan shall include specific information regarding the
Project’s construction activities that may disrupt normal pedestrian
and traffic flow and the measures to address these disruptions. Such
Plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development
Department and implemented in accordance with this approval.
• Heavy haul construction vehicles and cement trucks shall not pass
through Villaggio’s Lower Area access roads once any of the Lower
Area residences become occupied, and must utilize access from Calle
Joaquin to access the Upper Terrace after that time.
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-141
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Work within the public right-of-way shall be reviewed and approved by
the City on a case-by-case basis based on the magnitude and type of
construction activity. Work shall generally be performed between 8:30
AM and 4:00 PM. This work includes dirt hauling and construction
material delivery. Work within the public right-of-way outside of these
hours shall only be allowed after the issuance of an after-hours
construction permit administered by the Building and Safety Division.
Additional restrictions may be put in place by Public Works
Department depending on particular construction activities and
conditions.
• Streets and equipment shall be cleaned in accordance with established
Public Works requirements.
• Trucks shall only travel on a City-approved construction route. Limited
queuing may occur on the construction site itself.
• Materials and equipment shall be minimally visible to the public; the
preferred location for materials is to be onsite, with a minimum amount
of materials within a work area in the public right-of-way, subject to a
current Use of Public Property Permit.
• Provision of off-street parking for construction workers, which may
include the use of a remote location with shuttle transport to the site, if
determined necessary by the City.
Project Coordination Elements That Shall Be Implemented Prior to
Commencement of Construction:
• The traveling public shall be advised of impending construction
activities that may substantially affect key roadways or other facilities
(e.g., information signs, portable message signs, media
listing/notification, and implementation of an approved Construction
Impact Mitigation Plan).
• A Use of Public Property Permit, Excavation Permit, Sewer Permit, or
Oversize Load Permit, as well as any Caltrans permits required for any
construction work requiring encroachment into public rights-of-way,
detours, or any other work within the public right-of-way shall be
obtained.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
• Timely notification of construction schedules shall be provided to all
affected agencies (e.g., Police Department, Fire Department, Public
Works Department, and Community Development Department) and to
all owners and residential and commercial tenants of property within
a radius of 0.25 mile.
• Construction work shall be coordinated with affected agencies in
advance of start of work. Approvals may take up to two weeks per each
submittal.
• Public Works Department approval of any haul routes for construction
materials and equipment deliveries shall be obtained.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant shall submit the
Construction Transportation Management Plan to the City for review and
approval prior to issuance of grading or building permits. The Construction
Transportation Management Plan shall be updated as needed to reflect
changing conditions over the Project’s five-year construction schedule. The
Applicant shall conduct necessary construction employee training prior to the
commencement of construction. The City Public Works Department,
Community Development Department, Police Department, and Fire
Department, and nearby residences and businesses shall be notified of the
construction schedule prior to initiation of construction. The Applicant shall
submit individual traffic control plans and part of encroachment permits for
work within the public right-of-way.
Monitoring. The City shall ensure compliance with the Construction
Transportation Management Plan with periodic inspections of the Project site
during construction. Complaints related to construction traffic at the site shall
be directed to the City Public Works Department.
MM UT-1 The Applicant shall amend the FRSP to require that the size,
location, and alignment of all on- and offsite water supply, recycled water,
wastewater, and energy infrastructure shall be subject to review and approval
by the City’s Public Works and Utilities Departments. The Applicant shall be
responsible for constructing all required onsite and offsite utility
improvements, as well as for repaving of damaged roadways.
Plan Requirements and Timing. The Applicant is required to implement the
above standard mitigation measures prior to approval of grading and the final
VTM. City staff shall ensure the above measures are incorporated into the
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-143
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-1. Project Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impacts (Continued)
Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Significance
Final FRSP and building plans prior grading and recordation of the final
VTM.
Monitoring. City staff shall ensure measures are on all Project plans. City
staff shall work with the Applicant to ensure that these requirements are
implemented.
UT-2. Project-related increases in water use would
increase demand for the City’s potable water supply.
None Required. Less than Significant
UT-3. Project-generated wastewater would
contribute to demand for wastewater collection
facilities and remaining available and planned
capacity of the City’s WRRF.
MM UT-2 The Applicant shall pay fair share costs for replacement of the
Laguna lift station or construction of capacity improvements through
negotiation of a private reimbursement agreement with the City.
Plan Requirements and Timing. Negotiation of a private reimbursement
agreement with the City will fulfil the Project’s fair share financial obligation
towards construction of necessary capacity improvements or replacement of
the Laguna lift station. Appropriate fees shall be negotiated with the City.
Payment of fees shall be required prior to issuance of building permits for
each development phase.
Monitoring. The City shall approve the private reimbursement agreement and
verify that the Applicant contributes appropriate fair share fees as approved
by the City.
Less than Significant
with Mitigation
UT-4. The Project would generate additional solid
waste for disposal at the Cold Canyon Landfill.
None Required. Less than Significant
UT-5. The Project would result in an increase of
energy consumption and requirement for additional
energy resources.
None Required. Less than Significant
3.15 Mineral Resources
MN-1. Project implementation would result in the
loss of the existing onsite red rock quarry (Froom
Ranch Pit).
None Required. Less than Significant
ES-144 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ES-6 SUMMARY OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
The CEQA Guidelines state that an “EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives
to the Project, or to the location of the Project, which would feasibly attain most of the
basic objectives of the Project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant
effects of the Project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives” (Section
15126.6). Several alternatives to the proposed Project, including the No Project Alternative
and Minimum LUE-Compliant Project Alternative, were considered. Each alternative
considers the ability of a particular alternative to substantially reduce or eliminate the
Project’s significant environmental impacts, while still meeting basic Project objectives.
This EIR discusses alternatives to the proposed Project, including the No Project
Alternative, Alternative 1 – Clustered Development Below the 150-foot Elevation
Alternative (the Actionable Alternative), Alternative 2 – Residential Development Project
Alternative, Alternative 3 – Minimum LUE-Compliant Project Alternative, and
alternatives that were considered and discarded. Each of these considers the ability of a
particular alternative to substantially reduce or eliminate the Project’s significant
environmental impacts, while still meeting basic Project objectives. Consistent with CEQA
Guidelines Section 15126.6(c), a range of alternatives that do not provide any
environmental advantages compared to the proposed Project, meet key Project objectives,
nor achieve overall agency policy goals were eliminated from further consideration,
including retention of agricultural uses on site, increasing housing development, majorly
reducing the Project, and developing a business park.
The alternatives analyzed in the EIR include:
No Project Alternative:
Under the No Project Alternative, no development or annexation of the site to the
City would occur, and the site would remain designated for agricultural and
commercial uses by the County. The site would continue to be designated as SP-3
of the City General Plan and remain within the City’s Sphere of Influence, and all
General Plan LUE requirements for SP-3 for potential future development would
remain applicable. No new development or construction would occur under this
alternative and the site would continue to be used as grazing land and as a staging
and operations site for the existing construction company. Froom Creek would not
be realigned or enhanced and no changes to existing stormwater conveyance and
management systems would occur. The existing wetlands and onsite stormwater
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-145
Draft EIR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
detention basin would remain. All structures associated with the Froom Ranch
Dairy complex would remain in place, would not be rebuilt or restored, and would
continue to be utilized for construction business operations (offices, equipment
storage, etc.). Daily vehicle trips would remain low/negligible associated with
limited employee trips from the existing construction business onsite.
Alternative 1 – Clustered Development Below the 150-foot Elevation Line (the
Actionable Alterative):
Alternative 1 would include a major reconfiguration of the proposed land use plan
and redesign of key Project elements specifically to cluster proposed land uses into
a smaller development footprint, thereby reducing environmental impacts
identified in the EIR. Alternative 1 represents an alternative largely designed by the
Project Applicant (see Appendix C for a conceptual design plan that informed this
alternative analysis) with three key changes to respond to the EIR’s impact analysis
for the Project, as discussed further below. This alternative is analyzed at a high
level of detail to allow City adoption of this alternative (if selected). Alternative 1
would include three primary features that differ from the Project to substantially
reduce identified Project impacts: 1) consistency with the 2014 General Plan LUE
policies for restricting urban development below the 150-foot elevation line; 2)
clustered development within the Lower Area of Villaggio and Madonna Froom
Ranch with increases in building density and height; and 3) increased emergency
access.
Alternative 2 – Residential Development Project Alternative:
Alternative 2 would include a major reconfiguration of the proposed land use plan
and redesign of key Project elements similar to Alternative 1, including
substantially increased clustering of development within Madonna Froom Ranch
and the Lower Area of Villaggio to reduce environmental impacts identified in the
EIR. This alternative would continue to provide a Life Plan Community and new
multi-family neighborhood; however, unlike the Project and Alternative 1,
Alternative 2 would eliminate commercial uses on site. Instead, Alternative 2 would
support 178 multi-family residential units (four more than proposed under the
Project or Alternative 1), 404 senior independent living units, 51 beds in residential
health care facilities, and 3.3 acres of public parkland. Four primary features of this
alternative are intended to substantially reduce identified Project impacts: 1) no
commercial development within Madonna Froom Ranch; 2) consistency with the
ES-146 Froom Ranch Specific Plan
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
2014 General Plan LUE policies for restricting urban development below the 150-
foot elevation line; 3) clustered development within the Lower Area of Villaggio
and Madonna Froom Ranch with increases in building density and height; and 4)
increased emergency access.
Alternative 3 – Minimum LUE-Compliant Project Alternative:
Alternative 3 would be a low-build alternative with the most restricted area for
development and a major redesign of key Project elements. Alternative 3 would
substantially reduce the development capacity of the Project site to the minimum
development allowed by the General Plan LUE. This alternative would be most
closely aligned with the existing General Plan LUE performance standards and
minimum development policy framework for the Project site with regard to the land
use mix and allowable development levels. Alternative 3 would support 200
multiple family residential units, 50,000 sf of commercial uses and 3.0 acres of
public facilities, but would not support development of a Life Plan Community.
This development would be clustered in already-disturbed areas of the Project site
on the northern side and below the 150-foot elevation line, which would avoid or
minimize a range of environmental impacts identified in this EIR. Alternative 3
would reduce or change Project impacts through: 1) reducing residential
development to 200 units consistent with the minimum development performance
standards of the LUE SP-3, Madonna on LOVR Specific Plan Area; 2) reducing
commercial development to 50,000 sf consistent with the minimum development
performance standards of the LUE SP-3; 3) no development of the Villaggio Life
Plan Community; 4) retention of the existing Froom Creek channel; 5) consistency
with the 2014 General Plan LUE policies for restricting urban development below
the 150-foot elevation line; and 6) increased emergency access.
Impacts associated with each of these alternatives is summarized in Table ES-2.
ES-7 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE
Table ES-2 summarizes the environmental impacts associated with the proposed Project
and the analyzed alternatives. The No Project Alternative would involve no development
on site and, as a result, would have the fewest impacts and would be environmentally
superior to the Project. However, the No Project Alternative would not achieve the Project
objectives. Further, CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 states that if the environmentally
Froom Ranch Specific Plan ES-147
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
superior alternative is the No Project Alternative, the EIR shall also identify an
environmentally superior alternative from among the other alternatives.
Alternative 1 is considered to be the environmentally superior alternative since impacts
would be reduced for many issue areas and all Project objectives would be met, as
described below. Alternative 1 would substantially reduce impacts as compared to the
Project in the following resource areas: aesthetics and visual resources; biological
resources; cultural and tribal cultural resources; hazards, hazardous materials, and
wildfires; and land use and planning. For instance, avoidance of development within the
Upper Terrace area of Villaggio would greatly eliminate impacts to biological resources,
including serpentine native bunchgrass grassland habitats, and would minimize impacts to
springs, seeps, and wetland habitats along Drainages 1, 2, and 3, as well as associated
impacts to 12 special status plant species. Despite substantial reductions to many impacts
under Alternative 1 as compared to the Project, Alternative 1 would continue to result in
significant and unavoidable impacts to air quality and greenhouse gases; biological
resources; historic resources; hazards, hazardous materials, and wildfires; land use and
planning; noise; and transportation and traffic.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Table ES-2. Impact Comparison of Alternatives to the Proposed Project
Issue Area No Project
Alternative 1 –
Clustered
Development
Below the 150-
Foot Elevation
Alternative
(Actionable
Alternative)
Alternative 2 –
Residential
Development
Project
Alternative
Alternative 3 –
Minimum LUE-
Compliant Project
Alternative
Aesthetics and
Visual Resources Less Less Less Less
Agricultural
Resources Less Similar Similar Less
Air Quality and
GHG Emissions Less Similar Similar Less
Biological
Resources Less Less Less Less
Cultural and
Tribal Resources Greater Less Less Less
Geology and
Soils Less Similar Similar Similar
Hazards,
Hazardous
Materials, and
Wildfires
Less Less Less Less
Hydrology and
Water Quality Less Similar Similar Less
Land Use and
Planning Less Less Less Less
Noise Less Less Less Less
Population and
Housing Greater Similar Similar Less
Public Services Less Similar Similar Less
Transportation
and Traffic Less Similar Similar Less
Utilities and
Energy
Conservation
Less Similar Similar Less
Mineral
Resources Less Similar Similar Similar
Project
Objectives Met? No Yes Partially Partially
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