HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/16/1995, 3 - ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION FOR ELKS LANE BRIDGE REPLACEMENT, CITY PLAN NO. L-10H. ' ��IVNI��I�IIIII�II� �I�I MEETING DATE:
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city of San WI S OBISPO
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT ITEM NUMBEPv
FROM: Michael D. McCluskey, Public Works Director�"�
Prepared by: Barbara Lynch, Engineering Assistatto�
SUBJECT: Environmental determination for Elks Lane Bridge replacement, City Plan No. L-10H.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution to Determine that there will be No Significant Environmental Impacts for the Elks
Lane Bridge Replacement Project and to Approve a Negative Declaration.
DISCUSSION
Elks Lane bridge was constructed in 1939 and is substandard under current guidelines. The City was able
to obtain Federal funding assistance to replace the bridge. In 1990 the City's Community.Development
Department reviewed the project and prepared an environmental document in the form of an "Initial Study
of Environmental Impact". At that time, mitigation for the project was specified (See Exhibit A). The
Community Development Director approved a negative declaration which was made available for public
review and comment on September 12, 1990 (ER 29-90). No comments have been received.
The environmental document prepared in 1990 was based on a design which widened the bridge and
eliminated the supports. The Federal Highway Administration reviewed the project and the environmental
assessment and determined the project met the conditions for a "Categorical Exclusion". On September
3, 1991, the Council reviewed the project concept and directed staff to proceed with the design and
necessary funding applications. At that time, the Council was presented with the Initial Study of
Environmental Impact and the required mitigation. No specific action was taken at that time regarding
the environmental study.
Because of the Federal funding,the construction documents and supporting information are being reviewed
by Caltrans. The first submittal to Caltrans occurred in September of 1994. At that time, Caltrans
requested the City revise the bridge to a different type of structure. This did not effect the originally
proposed width, but did modify the supports. The revised type of construction will require two sets of
supports in the channel. However, the supports do not require any excavation in the channel, but rather
are simply driven into the ground to the bed rock and extend up to the bridge. This should have minimal
impact on the channel.
In December of 1994, the City requested Caltrans review the environmental document to determine if the
findings were still valid because the document was nearly five years old. Caltrans environmental staff met
with City staff from both Community Development and Engineering to go over those areas needing
review. Field reviews of the site were made by Caltrans biologists and archaeologists. Some minor
additions were made to the specifications to cover changes in environmental protection laws. The
environmental document was then reaffirmed as valid by Caltrans in April of 1995 (Exhibit B).
Under normal circumstances the City would complete CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act)
compliance at the time City Council approved plans and specifications for advertising. On this project,
the California Regional Water Quality Control Board has refused to grant us Certification until the CEQAy
��� ►�hIIII�P ��ll city of San tins OBISpo
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
process is completed. Because we are being denied clearance to begin work, we are requesting Council
to take special action at this time to approve the negative declaration of environmental impact for this
project. This will allow staff to prepare a complete bidding package covering all permit requirements.
In addition to the CEQA compliance the City has obtained a Fish and Game Agreement, and is awaiting
only this resolution to receive an Army Corps of Engineers Permit and the California Regional Water
Quality Control Board Certification to proceed with the work. Requirements from these three agencies
include notification to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Office of Historic Preservation. The
project will still come to the Council for the approval of plans and specifications and the authorization
to advertise the project.
CONCURRANCFS:
The Community Development Department has worked very closely with Public Works throughout this
process and concurs with the recommendation.
TTACHMIIVTS:
xhibit A - Initial Environmental Study (ER 29-90)
Exhibit B - Memorandum from the Department of Transportation
Draft Resolution to Approve the Negative Declaration
RESOLUTION NO. (1995 SERIES)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
APPROVING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR
THE ELKS LANE BRIDGE REPLACEMENT (ER 29-90)
The Council of the City of San Luis Obispo resolves as follows:
Findings
1. On September 12, 1990 the City published and made available for public review a negative
declaration based on an initial study of environmental impact for the proposed replacement of the
Elks Lane Bridge, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act and the City's
Environmental Impact Procedures and Guidelines.
2. The Council has reviewed and considered the initial study, and has found that there will be no
significant environmental impacts. Potential impacts will be reduced to a level of insignificance
due to features incorporated into the project design and construction. These mitigation measures
and monitoring responsibilities are identified in the initial study, on file in the Community
Development Department.
3. Changes to the design details of the bridge proposed since the initial review do not result in
additional environmental issues.
Action
1. The Council hereby approves a negative declaration.
On motion of , seconded by
and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this day of 1995.
Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED as to form:
City Clerk14yllornx
3 - 3
I� city of sAn tuis OBISPO
990 Palm Street/Post Office Box 8100 • San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8100
September 18, 1990
Mr. John Hawley
Engineering Dept.
City of San Luis Obispo
PO Box 8100
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8100
SUBJECT: ER 29-90
Elks Lane at San Luis Obispo Creek
Dear John:
On September 12, 1990, I reviewed your project's potential effect on the
environment. My action was to file a mitigated negative declaration. That _
means that I determined the project will cause no significant harm to the
environment, and no further environmental study will be required because of
the changes you have agreed to make in your original proposal. The
declaration is issued for the amended project. The changes are listed on the
attached sheet. Please sign the original and return to my office as soon as
possible. Please contact me immediately if this doesn't coincide with your
understanding .of the changes.
A negative declaration could be reversed later, either on appeal or by
automatic review by a decision-making body. . Appeals may be filed by anyone,
either now or shortly before your project is reviewed by the Architectural
Review Commission, Planning commission, or City Council. With or without an
appeal, a negative declaration is automatically reviewed by the Planning
Commission and council -- and sometimes the ARC ---when they review the
project itself.
If you have any. questions, please contact Glen Matteson at 549-7165 as soon as
possible.
S(!Gere y, RR
Arnold B. Jonas, D rector
Community Develo nt
ATTACHMENT: Initial Study
EXHIBIT "A"
s
ER 29-90
Remove or replace the Elks Lane Bridge
Elks Lane at San Luis Obispo Creek
The following measures are included in the project to mitigate potential
adverse environmental impacts. Please sign the original and return to my
office as soon as possible. ,
1. If the bridge is removed, the city will provide adequate space for
turning. fire trucks, to the approval of the Fire Marshal.
Monitoring: Fire Department review of final bridge demolition proposal.
2. Any eucalyptus tree affected by root cutting during construction will be
pruned for structural safety and to balance foliage with root network,
under the supervision of a qualified arborist.
Monitoring: Community Development staff review of construction plans
and specifications; Public Works staff inspection during construction.
3. A qualified archaeologist will train the project's construction
contractors in how to recognize resources that maybe encountered. If
excavations encounter archaeological resources, construction activities
which may affect them shall cease. The Community. Development Director
shall be notified of the extent and location of discovered materials so
that they may be recorded by a qualified archaeologist. Disposition of
artifacts shall comply with state and federal laws. A note concerning
this requirement shall be included on the grading and construction plans
for the project.
Monitoring: Community Development staff will check construction plans,
review the archaeological-services contract, and visit the site during
construction.
r
APPROVED BY: �
Arnold B. Jonas, D ctor
Community Developme�n
City of San Luis Obispo
Applicant
city of san. luis OBISp0
INITIAL STUDY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
SITE LOCATION Elks Lane at San Luis Obispo Creek APPLICATION NO. 29-90
PROJECT DESCRIPTION Remove or reDlace the Elks Lane bridce
APPLICANT City Of San Luis Obispo (John Hawley)
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
X NEGATIVE DECLARATION _ X MITIGATION INCLUDED
EXPANDED INITIAL STUDY REOUIupe'7_ ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT REQUIRED
PREPARED BY G n M `T�' P[Ann=r DATE 9-7-90
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR'S ACTI N: 2 DATE
SUMMARY OF INITIAL STUDY FINDINGS
I.DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
IL POTENTIAL IMPACT REVIEW POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
A. COMMUNITY PLANS AND GOALS *
B. POPULATION DISTRIBUTION AND GROWTH.......................................... NO
C. LAND USE ....................................................................... NO
YES*
D. TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION ...............................................
iY.ES*
E. PUBLICSERVICES ................................................................ yO
F. UTILITIES...:.................................................................... NO*
G. NOISE LEVELS ...................................................................
NO
H. GEOLOGIC&SEISMIC HAZARDS S TOPOGRAPHIC MODIFICATIONS ....................
NO
L AIR QUALITYAND WIND CONDITIONS............................................... NO*
J. SURFACE WATER FLOW AND QUALITY ..............................................
KPLANT LIFE...................................................................... VFc*
L. ANIMALUFE..................................................................... it)
YES*
M. ARCHAEOLOGICALIHI$TORICAL....................................................
N. AESTHETIC ......................................................................
NO
0. ENERGWRESOURCEUSE ...........................................................
NO
P. OTHER ....Pub)j.C.sataty .....tox!CS........................................ NO
W.STAFF RECOMMENDATION
'SEEATTACHEO REPORT
LNITLAL ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY 29-90
Elks Lane Bridge Removal or Replacement
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT & SETTING
The City of San Luis Obispo in considering the removal or replacement of the Elks
Lane bridge over San Luis Obispo Creek The existing structure has four timber-pile
supporting sections and a paved timber deck carrying a two-lane road. The bridge is
24 feet wide and about 92 feet long, from abutment to abutment It crosses the
creek at a point where flow is seasonal.
If the bridge is replaced, the new bridge would have a clear span between abutments
of 70 feet It would be 40 feet wide, providing a five-foot walkway on one side, two
twelve-foot travel lanes, and two four-foot bicycle lanes. The replacement bridge
would be in the location of the existing bridge, with centerlines nearly coincident, and
located in the western part of the existing 65-foot-wide right-of-way. New abutments,.
wing walls, and approaches would be constructed.
POTENTIAL: IMPACT REVIEW
A. Community plans and goals
No policies of the general plan directly address the issue of removing or replacing this
bridge. Specific traffic circulation and emergency access issues are addressed under
item D below.
Removing the pilings, which obstruct flood flows, would be consistent with the city's
Flood Management Policy.
D. Transportation and circulation
Setting
Elks Lane is a local commercial street It provides access to adjoining properties, an
alternate route to properties on Prado Road, and access to the Highway 101 ramps at
Prado Road.
Existing land uses directly served by Elks Lane include the Elks Club and the
cemetery north of the creek, the 24-unit Valley Vista mobile home park adjacent to
and south of the creek, and a drive-in theater and a gas station near the comer of
Prado Road and Elks Lane. The mobile home park is a non-conforming residential
use in a conservation/open space zone, and is subject to flooding. The area south of
the creek is zoned conservation/open space, with rninirnum parcel sizes of five or 10
acres. The general plan designates the area south of the creek as "interim
T
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ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 2
conservation/open space," which means that the area should remain open until the
area's flood problems are eliminated.
Assumptions About the Future
For purposes of traffic modeling, the city's circulation studies assumed that the area
south of the creek would eventually be developed with commercial uses having a total
of about 500,000 square feet gross floor area. Future traffic levels on surrounding
streets and anticipated changes would be as shown in the following table. .
Existing Eutur, a (T0201 Change
South Higuera*Street 159000 ADT 219000 to + 6,000 to
312000 ADT + 16,000 ADT
Prado Road .. 41000 ADT 20,000.to + 16,000 to
31,000 ADT + 27,000 ADT
Elks Lane 300 to 500 ADT 6,200 ADT + 5,700 to
+ 59900 ADT
Traffic increases on Higuera and Prado would be caused.by development throughout
the city, but particularly in the airport area Traffic increases along Elks Lane would
be associated mostly with redevelopment of the drive-in theater and vacant land south
of the creek.
Consistent with the draft Circulation Element, the following changes would be made:
- Widen Prado Road to six lanes between Highway 101 and Higuera;
- Construct'a full interchange at Prado and Highway 101;
- Widen South Higuera Street uniformly to four lanes;
- Widen Highway 101 to six lanes;
Impacts
Removing the Elks Lane Bridge (no replacement)
Impacts Under Current Land Use, Circulation; and Emergency Response
Conditions
Removing the bridge would limit access to land uses adjoining
Elks Lane. Assuming mos traffic to and from the Elks Club is
from the north, removing the bridge would have little impact
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ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 3
The cemetery is a low traffic-generating use and elimination of
the bridge would have little effect
Traffic associated with the drive-in theater would'be limited to
the use of Prado road and Elks Lane south of the creek Peak
traffic periods for the drive-in theater are during evening hours
and on Sunday for the swap meet, so traffic diversion to Prado,
Highway 101 and Higuera Street caused by removal of the bridge
should not add significantly to peak travel on those roads, which
occurs on weekday mornings and afternoons.
Access to the mobile home park from the north would have to
use Prado Road, which would be less convenient Also, access to
the drive-in would be less convenient for people approaching from.
the north.
Traffic volume on Elks Lane at both ends would be reduced, to
the extent that the limited amount of through traffic would use
Prado and Higuera
A portion of the traffic now accessing South Higuera_ Street at
Elks Lane would use the Prado Road route, further loading Prado
Road, the Prado-South Higuera signalized intersection, and South
Higuera between Elks Lane and Prado Road.
Conclusion: Under current land use conditions, removing the
bridge would not significantly impact general vehicle access or
traffic levels on alternate routes.
The Elks Lane area is within the outer service limits of Fire
Station #1 at Garden and Pismo streets and Fire Station #4 at
Madonna Road and Los Osos Valley Road. The city's standard
for adequate fire-fighting response is for equipment to reach the
site within four minutes of receiving a call. According to 1988
response-time estimates for the airport area by the city Fire
Department:
Uses along Elks Lane are at the edge of; or slightly
beyond, four-minute response from Fire Station #1 and
beyond four-minute response from Station #4.
Elimination of the Elks Lane Bridge would increase the
response time to areas south of the creek from Station #1,
to exceed the four-minute standard; response times from
Station #4 would be unchanged.
Land uses which would have a longer response time from
3 -�
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 4
Station #1 include the mobile home park, the drive-in
theater, and the gas station.
Conclusion: Under current land-use and fire-response conditions,
removal of the bridge would reduce the level of fire protection
for the mobile home park, the drive-in theater, and the gas
station, but the impact would not be significant.
Potential mitigation:
Build a new Station #1 at the corner of Nipomo and
Pismo streets (the recommended new site for a
headquarters station). The new station would be closer to
Elks Lane and would improve response time slightly.
(However, areas south of the creek would continue to be
beyond four-minute response time).
Build an overpass and extend Prado Road westward to
Madonna. This would improve access to the area from
Fire Station #4 at Madonna and*Los Osos Valley roads.
The area south of the creek would probably be within four
minutes response.
Relocate the mobile home park within an adequate
response area.
Impacts Under Future Land Use, Circulation, and Emergency Response
Conditions
Assuming that the area south of the creek develops with
commercial uses, eliminating the Elks Lane bridge would not
adversely effect access so long as that the changes to the road
system listed above are carried out. The concern that the changes
may not be carried out for many years can be addressed by
conditioning any future development in the vicinity on completion
of the road changes.
With the substantial increase in traffic caused by new
development, the city would logically emphasize the use of a new,
full interchange at Prado Road. Eliminating the Elks Lane bridge
and requiring traffic to use either Highway 101 or South Higuera
via Prado Road would eliminate traffic loading of the Elks Lane
leg of the Elks-Higuera intersection. (This intersection would
have to be signalized under build-out conditions, if the bridge is
replaced.) In addition, the segment of Higuera Street north of
Madonna Road could become overloaded under future traffic
conditions. Emphasizing the use of Highway 101 (by removal of
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 5
the Elks Lane bridge) could have a beneficial effect on the level
of service on Higuera Street between Madonna Road and Marsh
Street, while having a negative impact on Highway 101, which will
be heavily used. On the other hand, emphasizing Highway 101 by
removing the bridge could have a negative impact on traffic flow
on Prado Road and at the Prado-Higuera intersection; the severity
of the impact would depend on the extent of improvements to
Prado Road. (North-bound traffic from areas south of the creek,
having destinations over about one mile away, would probably use
the freeway, while traffic with closer origins/destinations would
probably use South Higuera Street.)
Conclusion: Under future land use conditions, removal of the
Elks Lane bridge would not adversely impact general access to
the Elks Lane area; it may benefit Higuera Street by diverting
traffic to Highway 101. If flooding in the area is not alleviated
and the current low-intensity uses are retained, traffic impacts of
removing the bridge would be'insignificant.
Under future traffic conditions, emergency response to the area
from either Station #1 or Station #4 would be greater than four
minutes. Relocating Station #1 to the comer of Nipomo and
Pismo streets would improve response time to uses north of the
creek However, given the projected level of downtown traffic
congestion, response times from the new station location probably
would be greater than four minutes. The response time from
Station #1 to uses South of the creek would certainly be greater
than four minutes, since the route would be about one mile'
longer than with the bridge. If Prado Road is extended over
Highway 101 to connect with Madonna Road, response times from
Fire Station #4 would be improved; they would probably be
withinfour minutes. However, actual response time tests will be
needed under future conditions to determine actual times.
Conclusion: Given future circulation improvements, such as the
connection of Prado Road to Madonna Road, city response time
standards could be met. However, actual field testing under
future conditions shouldbe done at the time that any future
development within the area south of the creek is proposed.
If response times are judged to be substandard, other mitigation
measures may be available. Such mitigation would affect new
development, probably not existing uses. It could include alarm
and automatic fire-suppression systems that are not normally
required. Such mitigation would not eliminate all concerns for
medical or Iaw-enforcement emergency response. (Until the city
adopted a requirement for automatic fire sprinklers in nearly all
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ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 6
adopted a requirement for automatic fire sprinklers in nearly all
new buildings, sprinlders were often cited as mitigation for fire-
service impacts for projects beyond four-minute response time.
Now that sprinklers are required, the four-minute response
standard may bea less useful criterion.)
Replacing the Elks Lane Bridge and maintaining the Elks Lane connection
between South Higuera Street and Prado Road
Impacts Under Current Land Use, Circulation, and Emergency Response
Conditions
Circulation patterns in the area would not change. With current
traffic levels, intersection and road capacities would not be
exceeded. Although the Elks Lane-South Higuera Street
intersection would continue to be awkward, under current levels
of usage no substandard conditions would be created by replacing
the bridge.
Conclusion: Replacing the Elks Lane Bridge will not adversely
affect traffic under current land use and circulation conditions.
Response times from fire stations #1 and #4 would not be
affected. Uses along Elks Lane are at the edge of, or are slightly
beyond, four minutes response from Fire Station #1, and are
clearly beyond four minutes response from Station #4. .
Conclusion: Replacing the Elks Lane Bridge will not adversely
affect response times to the Elks Lane area.
Impacts Under Future Land Use, Circulation, and Emergency Response
Conditions
If the area south of the creek is allowed to develop with
commercial uses, then a significant increase in traffic on Prado
Road would result. By replacing the Elks Lane bridge, part of
that traffic would be encouraged to use Elks Lane to access South
Higuera Street and part of the traffic would use Prado Road and
Highway 101 (assuming a full freeway interchange has been
developed).
Increased use of the Elks Lane-South Higuera intersection (which
is now controlled with a stop sign) could warrant signalization. If
signalised, through traffic flow on South Higuera would be
impeded. In addition, the segment of South Higuera Street north
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 7
of Madonna Road could become overloaded under future traffic
conditions The level of service on Higuera Street between
Madonna Road and Marsh Street would approach 'T" during peak
traffic periods, meaning unacceptable delays with some vehicles
waiting through more than one signal cycle. This loading might
be reduced if traffic from the Elks Lane area was diverted to
Highway 101.
Conclusion: If the area south of the creek develops with
commercial uses, replacing the Elks Lane bridge could reduce the
level of service 'on South Higuera Street north of Elks Lane and
on the Elks Lane-South Higuera Street intersection. However,
these impacts would be reduced if a full interchange was
constructed at Prado Road and Highway 101.
Under future traffic conditions, emergency response to the area
from either Station #1 or Station #4 would be greater than four
minutes. Relocating Station #1 to the corner of Nipomo and
Pismo streets would improve response time to uses north of the -
creek. However, given the projected level of downtown traffic
congestion, response times from the new station location probably
would be greater than four minutes.
If Prado Road is extended over Highway 101 to connect with
Madonna Road, response time from Fire Station #4 would be
improved, and probably would be within four minutes. However,
actual response time tests will be needed under future.conditions
to determine actual times.
Conclusion: Fire response times under future land use and
circulation conditions probably would be substantially the same
with or without the`Elks Lane bridge.
Alternate routes to the scene of a crime or an emergency do help assure
timely response by police, fire, medical, and utility services, Therefore,
removing the bridge and not replacing it would reduce the options for
emergency access to properties along Elks Lane. The impacts would not
be significant.
If the bridge is removed, each end of Elks Lane would require some provision for
turning vehicles, including fire trucks. A turn-around of about 60 feet diameter could
be provided to the north in the existing right-of-way, with some filling of a low area.
A turn-around wider than 40 feet at the 'south end would require additional right-of-
way and, depending on location, removal of dwellings from the mobile home park.
Fire Department standards call for dead-end roads serving potential fire locations to
have, within 150 feet of the end, a turning circle with an outside diameter of 90 feet,
or a roadway "T' with 58-foot4ong legs. Tum-arounds have not been designed. "I"
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 8
arrangements may be accommodated on developed sites, such as the Elks Club, and
can be required of future development in the area. The following mitigation is
recommended.
- Mitigation: If the bridge is removed, the city will provide adequate space for turning
fire trucks, to the approval of the Fire Marshal.
Monitoring. Fire Department review of final bridge demolition proposal.
Removing the bridge would make travel to and from the mobile home park
particularly inconvenient for those walking, riding bicycles, or riding the city bus
system. The city has begun to identify and obtain right-of-way for a
-bicycle/pedestrian.trail along San Luis Obispo Creek, but a bicycle/pedestrian bridge
At this location has not been identified.
Overall conclusion: Either replacing or eliminating the Elks Lane bridge, under
existing or future conditions, would result in some beneficial and some adverse
impacts. No adverse impacts are significant to the point that an environmental
impact rdporr-(ETR) must be prepared.
E. Public service
Impacts on emergency service access are discussed under the preceding
'Transportation and circulation" section.
G. Noise levels
If the mobile home park remains, replacing'the bridge .and allowing commercial
development of.the drive-in site would result in additional traffic noise exposure to
residents. Noise levels could exceed city standards. Replacing the bridge would not
cause this impact, but would enable it This exposure would be avoided by any one
of the following- removal of the mobile home park; removal of the bridge;
continuation of the drive-in area as. open land or low-intensity recreational use.
J. Drainage. flooding and water gualiv
The vicinity is subject to flooding to a depth of about two feet during the intensity of
storm that is expected to occur about once in 100 years (a "100-year storm"). The
channel from just downstream of the Prado Road bridge; extending upstream past this
location and through most of the city, is not adequate to convey runoff from storms
more intense than a 30-year frequency. The Elks Lane Bridge itself can
accommodate an eight-year storm (about 3,000 cubic feet per second), with an:
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 9
allowance for debris trapped against the bridge structure.
The conceptually designed replacement bridge, without substantial channel
modifications, would allow 18-year storm flows to pass (about 5,000 cubic feet per
second). To accommodate a 50-year storm (9,500 cfs), the channel width would have
to be approximately doubled, to 160 to 180 feet, vertical walls would be required on
the west bank upstream and downstream from the bridge, and the replacement bridge
would have to be about twice as long as the conceptual design evaluated in this
report.
Removing or.replacing the existing.bridge would help avoid flooding from storms in
the 10- to 20-year range, but by itself would not reduce the depth or extent of
flooding from storms more intense than about 30-years frequency. In a listing of nine
projects to reduce flooding along major waterways in the city, removing the Elks Lane
bridge was ranked number 2 (City of San Luis Obispo Flood Management Policy.
June 1983). ,
Scheduling demolition and construction during the dry season of a year with average
or less rainfall would avoid impacts to water quality, since there would be no surface
flow at the location.
L Plant life
Castor bean, annis, grasses, and blackberries grow along the channel in the vicinity.
Significant trees close to the bridge are:
At 15 to 35 feet from the southwest corner, three eucalyptus, 80 to 100 feet
tall and with trunks of two to five feet in diameter,
At 30 to 65 feet from the southwest corner, five cypress, 30 to 60 feet tall, with
one- to three-foot trunks;
At 40 to 60 feet from the southeast comer, eucalyptus with three- and five-
foot trunks, and a black walnut;
At 35 and 60 feet from the northeast corner, a eucalyptus with a five-foot
trunk, a cypress with a three-foot trunk, and a multi-trunk eucalyptus
resprouted from a five-foot trunk;
At 50 to 80 feet from "the northwest comer, a large group of willows.
The conceptual design would not require any of these trees to be removed. However,
excavations for abutments and wing wall footings would probably sever major roots for
the two large eucalyptus trees, one on each side of the bridge on the south bank,
since the walls would be within four to eight feet of the trunks. Such root cutting
/S
i
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 10
would stress the trees and make them less stable. Therefore, the following mitigation
should be incorporated.
— Mitigation: Any eucalyptus tree affected by root cutting during construction will be
pruned for structural safety and to balance.foliage with root network, under the
supervision of a qualified arborist.
Monitoring. Community Development staff review of construction plans and
specifications; Public Works staff inspection during construction. `
M Archaeological and historical resources
The site probably hosted Chumash use before European settlement. However, natural
changes within:the flood plain and soil disturbance from construction after European
settlement have probably removed or damaged prehistoric cultural materials. In
conjunction with the wastewater treatment plant upgrade and sewer main replacement
(ER 46-89), this vicinity was surveyed by an archaeologist and a records search was
performed (Clay. Singer, December 12, 1989). No cultural resources or sites were
identified which would be affected by this project. A previous reconnaissance at this
site found no-resources (Archaeological Potential at Elks Lane Bridge Project, Charles
Dills, February 26, 1978).
However, excavation in conjunction with footings or abutments for a replacement
bridge could encounter archaeological resources. To ensure that any materials will be
properly dealt with, the following standard mitigation is recommended.
- Mitigation: A qualified archaeologist will train the projects construction contractors
in how to recognize resources that may be encountered. If excavations encounter
archaeological resources, construction activities which may affect them shall cease.
The'Community Development Director shall be-notified of the extent.and location of
discovered materials so that they may be recorded by a qualified archaeologist
Disposition of artifacts shall comply with state and federal laws. A note concerning
this requirement shall be included on the grading and construction plans for the
project..
Monitoring. Community Development staff will check construction plans,
review the archaeological-services contract, and visit the site during
construction.
The bridge, built in 1939, does not have any unique features or known association
with events that would make it historically significant No other structures would be
affected by the project
ER 29-90: Elks Lane Bridge 11
P. Public safety
While the bridge is not in imminent danger of collapse, it has been qualified for 8C'
percent federal funding for replacement of substandard bridges. An extreme flood
which undermined the pilings or caused lateral stress from pressure on trapped debris,
combined with crossing by a heavy vehicle, could be hazardous. Removing or
replacing the bridge would avoid this hazard.
Section D above discusses the emergency access impacts of removing and not
replacing the bridge.
A soils investigation found hydrocarbon contamination on the southwest side of.the
creek, at a depth of about 18 feet (petroleum odor in soil), 21 feet (trace of free
product), and 25 feet (oily sheen on ground water) fSoils Endneering�Report for the
Proposed Elks Lane Bridge Replacement Pacific Geoscience, August 19891.
Additional investigation has been performed (initial Site Characterization. Elks Lane
Bridge Project Earth Systems Environmental, Inc., August 1989, and Site Investigation
Report for Unocal Pipeline. GeoResearch, March 10, 1990). The full extent of the
contamination has not been determined, though it appears to be limited to the
southwestern. side of the creek. The material appears to be crude oiL Detectable -
amounts of acetone, phenanthrene, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane have been found. While
two petroleum-pipelines running along the east side of Elks Lane are probably the
source, a specific source has not been identified. These findings have been referred
to the city Fire Department and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board
for review and recommendation.
Additional monitoring will be performed, but the bridge project is not expected to
affect or be affected by the contamination. Bridge removal or replacement will be
coordinated with any soil and water decontamination that is planned for the area.
gmD: er29-90.wp
MEMORAND UM
TO: Dave Romero, Director of Public Works
FROM: Michael Dolder, Fire Chief
DATE: January 24, 1991
SUBJECT: Proposed Removal of Elks Lane Bridge
First, let me state that the Fire Department's position on the Elks Lane bridge has always bben that
the bridge is required for emergency access and that it should be replaced and not removed. Since
the bridge replacement project was first discussed as a capital protect (Budget pg. E-9 and E-22),
the Fire Department has stated that the bridge is critical to providing emergency services both to
existing occupancies and future developments.
The draft, January 2, 1991 agenda report redefines the Elks lane capital replacement project as a
bridge removal, while the budget project description is a replacement project. Unfortunately, the
Fire Department was left out of the loop and we cannot support the removal without immediate
replacement. Part of the problem is that a concurrence section was not included in the staff report
and the mitigated negative declaration QM9-90) and the initial study of environmental impact were
not routed through the Fire Department. Although the initial study of environmental impact is
correct in substance, the portion of the report dealing with public services (emergency response)
does not adequately stress Fire Department concerns regarding the reduction of levels of fire
protection, life safety and medical response for parcels south of the bridge.
The existing substandard mobile home park consists of a number of older, pre-1972, mobile homes
which have a particularly bad history of rapidly burning and posing a significant life hazard.
Additionally, tenants in mobile home parks tend to be older and utilize the Fire Department medical
services more frequently.
The significant open space remaining in this area will undoubtedly, in build out, be provided with
fire protection and early warning devices. However, approximately 75% of the emergency
response activity provided by the Fire Department involves medical response for which no built-in
prevention may be provided. The removal of the bridge will substantially increase travel times to
parcels south of the bridge and will jeopardize life safety to these citizens. No mitigation is
available for the public safety impacts of removing the bridge.
I have made a suggestion to Community Development Director for improving the environmental
review process based on the Orcutt I and II project by developing checklists to more accurately
reflect project impacts especially in the area of public services. This suggestion would also apply
to Elks Lane project. As to the fate of the Elks Lane Bridge, I think a coordinated meeting needs
to occur between Public Works, Fire, Police, Community Development and the Assistant CAO who
is responsible for capital projects. I can support the budgeted repair or replacement project, but not
the removal of the bridge.
MD:vrd
cc: Ken Hampian, Assistant CAO
Arnold Jonas, Community Development Director
Tim Gardiner, Police_ Chief
Bob Neumann, Fire Marshal
EXHIBIT "B"
citys tuts oBispo
990 Palm Street/Post Office Box 8100 • San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8100
MEMORANDUM
TO: Bob Neumann, Acting Fire Chief
FROM: Arnold Jonas, Community Development Director C
DATE: January 29, 1991
SUBJECT: Removal of the Elks Lane Bridge
I've just. had an opportunity to read Chief Dolder's memo to Dave
Romero concerning the Fire Department position on removal without
replacement 'of the Elks Lane Bridge. Community Development
Department staff also are of the opinion that the bridge should be
replaced to facilitate both emergency and general automobile and
pedestrian circulation in the area.
Mike's memo .unfortunately gives the impression that the Fire
Department was not consulted in preparation of the environmental
analysis and subsequent Negative Declaration for the project. In
fact, Glen Matteson did consult with the Fire Marshal (perhaps even
yourself) , and we feel that the report accurately addresses the
issues raised at that time. Our conclusion in issuing the Negative
Declaration was not that the bridge should not be replaced, but
that removal without replacement was an adverse impact but not
sufficiently significant to require preparation of an Environmental
Impact Report.
we will be happy to participate in a joint meeting on the subject
if that is determined appropriate.
cc: Dave Romero,. Public Works Director
Ken Hampian; Assistant CAO
Jim Gardiner, Police Chief
EXHIBIT "C"
MEMORANDUM
TO: Wayne Peterson, City Engineer
FROM: Bob Neumann, Interim Fire Chief
DATE: March 8, 1991
SUBJECT: Elks Lane Bridge
The Elks Lane Bridge is of vital importance to the City Fire Department and we are strongly
opposed to its removal. The removal of the bridge would reduce the levels of fire protection, life
safety and medical response for parcels south of the bridge. For example, the existing substandard
mobile home park consists of a number of older, pre-1972, mobile homes which have a particularly
bad history of rapidly burning and posing a significant life hazard. Additionally, tenants in mobile
home parks tend to be older and utilize the Fire Department medical services more frequently.
The significant open space remaining in this area will undoubtedly, in build out, be provided with
fire protection and early warning devices. However, approximately 75% of the emergency
response activity provided by the Fire Department involves medical response for which no built-in
prevention may be provided. No mitigation is available for the public safety impacts of removing
the bridge.
Response times are vital to the very basis of Fire Department operations. Any disruption of
existing response routes is always viewed with concern by Fire Department personnel as Fire
Station locations are set by travel distances. This particular disruption is compounded by the
potential loss of a creek crossing which in time of flooding could even further isolate an area of the
City.
Please note attached response time test performed by Fire Department. Please note that all stations
are not equipped with similar equipment which increases the importance of the bridge for the
immediate availability of the ladder truck and Advanced Life Support units coming from Fire
Station #1.
EXHIBIT
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Wayne Peterson, City Engineer
FROM: Robert F. Neumann, Interim Fire Chief
DATE: March 8, 1991
SUBJECT: Response Times - Elks Lane
Below are the response times that you requested.
January 30, 1991 Code 3 Simulation Responses
1. Sta. 1 to N. Elks Bridge: 2:36 ; 7
2. Sta. 1 to S. Elks Bridge:
Via Higuera & Prado
3. Sta. 4 to S. Elks Bridge: 3:53
Via Freeway & Prado Offramp
4. Sta. 4 to N. Elks Bridge: 5:21
Via Freeway & Madonna- Offramp
5. Sta. 4 to N. Ells Bridge: 3:00
Via Madonna Road
6. Sta. 1 to S. Elks Bridge
Via Prado Overpass Overpass Estimate: 3:45
* Sta. 1 to Elks & Higuera: 2:11
* Sta. 4 to Prado Offramp: 3:20
RFN:pjs
4;L
EXHIBIT
EXHIBIT "E"
�i'�I��11118flllllfllll��► �II�IIIinif
city of San WIS OBISpo
" POLICE DEPARTMENT
All, Post Off Ice Box 1328— San Luis Obispo,CA 93408.1328—8057549.7310
TO: Chief Gardiner R E C El V E
FROM: ' Sergeant La Hargoue MAR 6 1991
DATE: January 31, 1991 OTY OFEERINSAN LUIS oe S90
SUBJECT: Elks Lane Bridge Comments
I have reviewed the attached documentation submitted by Chief
Dolder regarding the proposals for the replacement/removal of the
Elks Lane Bridge. I hope that you will find the following comments
helpful.
Police Response Impact:
Response times to calls could be effected if the bridge was removed
and not replaced. It, however, is difficult to predict just how
often that time would be effected during a police response. Unlike
the Fire Department, the Police Department does not respond from
fixed locations within the city. If an incident occurs requiring
an emergency police response, officers may be just as likely to
respond from either the north or the south. It all just depends
where the officer is patrolling at the time of the. call. The Fire
Department has preset routes of response from fire stations and the
removal of the bridge will probable effect their response to the
south end of Elks Lane every time if their standard response routes
are followed.
The Police Department also is able to more easily traverse through
traffic if required to drive around on Higuera St. to get to the
correct side of the creek, once again minimizing the impact on
response time. I clocked the driving times using both routes in
a simulated non-emergency response from the intersection of'Higuera
and Elks to the. Mobile Station at Prado and Elks. Utilizing
Higuera St. s/b to Prado Rd and then Prado Rd. to Elks Ln. , I
clocked two different times. The first response was 1 minute, 16
seconds and the second was 1 minute and 14 seconds. I then clocked
the response time from Higuera and Elks to the same Mobile Station,
this time utilizing the direct Elks Ln. route. The first time was
43 seconds and the second time was 44 seconds. The net results
indicate a 32 second difference in response time using the two
different routes. My test was conducted at 1130 A.M. on a
Thursday with a top speed of 45 mph and no lights or siren
activated.
I next checked through CRIS for the number and type of incidents
that we have responded to during the last three years involving
Elks Ln. I located several incidents, most of which involved
EXHIBIT "F"
traffic stops at Elks and Higuera or Elks and Prado. Of the
incidents located, only one involved an emergency response (injury
collision' at 333 Elks) .
Conclusion:
Based on the information that I have discovered, the removal of the
Elks Lane bridge probably would not significantly impact the Police
. Department. Had the bridge been removed during the last three
years, police response time to only one incident may have been
effected. The degree to which the response may have been effected
would depend upon the location from which the officer responded
from. Even if the officer would have had to respond from the
"wrong side" of the creek, his response time would have likely been
increased by approximately 30 seconds.
Please bear in mind that my conclusions only address police issues.
The Fire Department makes up the other half of the public safety
picture and their concerns may be justified when examined from
their perspective. ,
STATE OF CALIFORNIA—BUSINESS,TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING AGENCY PETE WILSON, Govemor
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION �-
P.O. BOX 8114
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93403-8114
TELEPHONE. 09P 5493111
TDD (805) 5493259 J'J
June 171, 1991
05-SLO-O-SIA-
BROS-0079 (017)
Elks Lane @
SLO Creek
Br. No. 49C-081 `
(Yr. Nominated: 86-87)
Mr. Dave Romero
Director of Public Works
P. 0. Box 8100
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
Attention John Hawley, Supervising Engineer
Dear Mr. Romero:
Under the Highway Bridge Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (HBRR)
guidelines a project can be considered delinquent if the Plans,
Specifications and Estimates (PS&E) are not completed and
released. for advertisement within two years from the date of the
notification letter. Depending on extenuating circumstances,
this could result in the project being deleted or deobligated.
The project referenced above will be evaluated based on your
answers to the questions below. Your reply is requested by July
19, 1991.
1. Is it the intent of the agency to pursue this project?
2. What progress has been made on the project since the
field review?
3. When will the PS&E be completed and transmitted to
CALTRANS for review (or resubmitted if applicable) ?
4 . When is the project scheduled to be advertised for
construction?
5. What is the current estimated cost for the project?
6. Explain any extenuating circumstances that have delayed
progress on this project.
It is important that you fully understand the consequences of
your response: Projects will be deleted because of inactivity
and/or lack of commitment.
EXHIBIT nail
Mr. Romero
June 17, 1991
Page 2
If you wish to present any additional information about this
project, you are encouraged to do so. You are reminded that your
structure will be placed back on the Eligible Bridge List if
funds are rescinded. Eligibility for future funding will' be
determined by HBRR operating guidelines in effect .at the time.
Sincerely,
hnRitter
ssist. Local treets and Roads
s
t
�r ��� �►� {Illll '"'��r 111 city of sAn tuis oBispo
990 Palm Street/Post Office Box 8100 • San Luis Obispo, CA 93403.8100
To: John Rawles, Engineering
From: Paul J. Barker
Subject: Elks Lane Bridge DATE: May 30, 1991
I ran the MINUTP Traffic Model with the information that you provided me. The bottom line is that taking
the bridge out will not impact the road network in any demonstrative way.
I checked with the planners to verify that the amount of build-out in land use that you gave me was correct.
You had asked for a total of 500,000 gsf, but the planners feel that 400,000 gsf is probably more likely in that
traffic zone.
Two situations exist in this run of the minutp model:the bridge comes out or the bridge stays in. As shown
below,within those two situations are four more situations that could exist These situations are dependent
on the population growth and the circulation element improvements.
One assumptions common to all of the minutp runs, the city will grow to 55,000 people. As to population,
there is one other possibility. This is that the airport area will grow significantly more than envisioned by city
plans.
The other consideration is the circulation element. One possibility is that the road network would only see
Improvements that would be required for each new development. The other possibility is that all the
improvements proposed by the draft circulation element would be completed.
As you can see, this set of situations combine to yield 8 different Minutp runs. The following system was
used to label the different columns or minutp runs.
The follow results were obtained:
A = Only development related improvements are done to the road network.
B = The airport area grows significantly, but only development related improvements are done to the
road network.
C = The circulation element directed improvements are done according to the draft circulation element.
D - The airport area grows significantly, and the circulation element directed improvements are done.
Bridoe is out Averaoe Daily Totals (ADT1 and Level Of Service (LOS) at the peak hour
Situations A B C D
(ADT) (LOS) (ADT) (LOS) (ADT) (LOS) (ADT) (LOS)
101 on ramp at Prado 7,545 (E) - 8,806 (F) 8,046 (E) 8,581 (F)
101 off-ramp at Prado 5,887 (A) 7,352 (B) 1,502 (A) 2,122 (A)
Prado from 101-Higuera 9,970 (D)+ 12,615 (F- 26,382 (C) 32,132 (D) +
Higuera from Prado-Elks 22,134 (C) 24,227 (D) 17,317 (B) 18,498 (C) -
101 from Prado-Madonna 34,275 (D) 35,777 (D) 35,059 (B) 35,904 (B)
Elks Lane from Prado-Bridge 3,060 (A) 3,201 (A) 4,369 (A)+ 5,491 (B)
Bridge is in
101 on ramp at Prado 7,209 (D) 8,249 (F) 8,017 (E) 8,537 (F)
101 off-ramp at Prado 6,542 (A) 7,894 (B) 1,990 (A) 2,644 (A)
Prado from 101-Higuera 10,372 (F) 11,310 (F+) 26,754 (C) 32,875 (F)
Higuera from Prado-Elks 21,465 (C) 23,562 (D) 15,472 (8) 16,946 (B)
101 from Prado-Madonna 33,280 (D) 34,662 (D) 34,590 (B) 35,463 (B)
Elks Lane from Prado-Bridge 1,882 (A) 1,710 (A) 3,561 (B) 3,511 (B)
If you have any questions, please give me a call. EXRIBIT "H"
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San LUIS OBI SPO ELKS LANE BRIDGE
OVER SAN LUIS CREEK
EXHIBIT "I"
State of.Callfomla Business, Tfansportation and Housing Agency
Memorandum
RE CE IV
To File Date : April 5, 1995 APR 21 199
ENG;NEERirv.l:w:
CITV OF SAN LUIS
Fla No. : City of San Luis Obispo,
Local Streets & Roads,
Replace Bridge No. 49C-81,
Over San Luis Obispo
Creek at Elks Lane
05 -962053 (141)
From : DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Ray Scott
Environmental Planning
subject : Response to the City of San Luis Obispo's Letter of March 2, 1995 Regarding the
Adequacy of Their Old Environmental Assessment for the Bridge Replacement on
Elks Lane over San Luis Obispo Creek
I have reviewed the revised Plans and Special Provisions submitted with the above
referenced letter. They address the concerns we discussed at the field meeting held
on January 9, 1995 between District Environmental Planning Staff (Greg Smith, Zeke
DeLlamas and Ray Scott) and City Engineering Staff (Barbara Lynch).
Our District Archaeological and Biological Specialists have surveyed the project area.
The City's revised Special Provisions sections addressing archaeological monitoring,
ESA fencing, and irrigation (if planting is done between February and October), and
their revised Plans, which place the rock slope protection under three feet of creek
bottom material to ensure safe low flow passage of fish, should provide adequate
protection for any sensitive resources which may be encountered.
This area is not suitable habitat for the Red-legged frog. No wetland areas were
identified within the impact area.
We concur with the City that the previously prepared environmental assessment and
categorical exclusion determination are valid and do not need to be revised.
We understand that a preconstruction survey for the California pond turtle will be
made prior to the start of construction and any pond turtles found within the ESA
fencing will be moved to safety.
Lek:6: ,8
r
File
April 5, 1995
Page 2
We understand that, because of the redesign of the bridge, new agreements and
permits will have to be obtained from the CDFG, ACOE, RWOCB and whatever other
applicable agencies may be involved.
RMS:rms
cc-
AKL/GLR
JGH/GPS
JTGibbs/Bill Tyler
Barbara Lynch, SLO Engineering Dept.
file:strt&rds.10
rqr SAN
BISPO
it tegmm-'Mme,
3825 South 11iguera•Post Office Box 112 • San Luis Obispo, California 93406-0112 • (805) 781-7800
In The Superior Court of The State of California
In and for the County of San Luis Obispo
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
dv 79316-0-2 city of
City of SLO ��i san tuts owspo
CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC
HEARINGS.
On Tuesday, May 16,
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, 1995, the San Luis Obispo
City Council will hold public
ss hearings beginning at 7:00
P.m. in the Council Cham.
County of San Luis Obispo bars of City Hall, 990 Palm
Street, on the items listed
below. The reports will be
I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of available for review in the
the County aforesaid; I am over the age of eighteen City Clarks Department on
the Wednesday before the
and not interested in the above entitled matter, I am meeting.For more informa-
now, and at all times embraced in theublication tion,please call 761-7103.
P The Council may also
herein mentioned was, the principal clerk of the discuss other hearings or
rinters and ublishers of the SAN LUIS OBISPO business hems before or
P P after those listed. If you
COUNTY TELEGRAM TRIBUNE, a newspaper of challenge any one of the
proposed actions described
general circulation, printed and published daily, below in court,you may be
Sundays excepted, at the City of San Luis Obispo in limited to raising only those
issues you or someone else
the above named county and state; that notice at raised at the public hearing
which the annexed clippings is a true printed copy, described in this notice, or
in written correspondence
was published in the above-named newspaper and delivered to the City Council
at, or prior to, the public
not in any supplement thereof - on the following hearing.
dates,to-wit: May 6 NEIGHBORHOOD EN-
that said newspaper was dui and regularly HANCEMENT PROGRAM Y g y t0 review existing efforts
ascertained and established a newspaper of general and policies for neighbor-
hood action and additional
circulation by Decree entered in the Superior Court measures for in
in
of San Luis Obispo County, Sate of California, on Ithe 1995-97 Financial Plan.
(45 min.).
June 9, 1952, Case #19139 under the provisions of APPEAL - PARKING EX.
Chapter 1, Division 7, Title of the Government Code CEPTION - to consider an
appeal of a Planning Com-
of the State of California. mission action to deny a
request for app^d^s."ep-
tion at 193^rluasna Drive
I certify (or declare) under the penalty of perjury that that wr d allow an uncov.
•parking space and the
the foregoing is true and correct.
1 ,r
rking space to be a feet
wide.(30 min.).
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
Diane R.Gladwell,
City Clerk
•
IMSY6,1995 _ 679316
(Signature of Principal Clerk)
Date: May 6, 1995