HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-02-2017 Council Reading File - 2017_0303_Marsh Street Bridge Final EIR
Marsh Street Bridge
Replacement Project
Final Environmental Impact Report
Prepared for the City of San Luis Obispo
Public Works Department
March 2017
General Information about This Document
What’s in this document:
The City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Department has prepared this Environmental Impact
Report, which examines the potential environmental impacts for the proposed Marsh Street
Bridge Replacement Project located in the City of San Luis Obispo, California. The City of San
Luis Obispo is the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This
document describes why the project is being proposed, what alternatives have been considered
for the project, how the existing environment could be affected by the project, and any proposed
measures to avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate environmental impacts.
Background
Under CEQA, the Lead Agency must prepare and certify a Final EIR prior to approving a
proposed project. The contents of a Final EIR are specified in Section 15132 of the CEQA
Guidelines, which states that the Final EIR shall consist of:
1. The Draft EIR or a revision to the Draft;
2. Comments and recommendations on the Draft EIR either verbatim or in summary;
3. A list of persons, organizations, and public agencies commenting on the Draft EIR;
4. The responses of the Lead Agency to significant environmental points raised in the
review and consultation process; and
5. Any other information added by the Lead Agency.
The Final EIR allows the public and the City an opportunity to review revisions to the Draft EIR
and the Responses to Comment. The final EIR serves as the environmental document to
inform the City Council’s consideration of the proposed project, either in whole or in part, or one
of the alternatives to the project discussed in the Draft EIR.
As required by Section 15090 (a)(1)-(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, a Lead Agency, in certifying a
Final EIR, must make the following three determinations:
1. The Final EIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA;
2. The Final EIR was presented to the decision-making body of the Lead Agency, and the
decision-making body reviewed and considered the information of the Final EIR prior to
approving the project; and
3. The Final EIR reflects the Lead Agency’s independent judgement and analysis.
As required by Section 15091 of the CEQA Guidelines, no public agency shall approve or carry
out a project for which an EIR has been certified that identifies one or more significant
environmental effects of the project unless the public agency makes one or more written
findings (Findings of Fact) for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief
explanation of the rationale for each finding supported by substantial evidence in the record.
The possible findings are:
1. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final
EIR.
2. Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another
public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted
by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency; or
3. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including
provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the
mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the Final EIR.
Additionally, pursuant to Section 15093(b) of the CEQA Guidelines, when a Lead Agency
approves a project that would result in significant unavoidable impacts that are disclosed in the
Final EIR, the agency must state in writing the reasons supporting the action. The Statement of
Overriding Considerations shall be supported by substantial evidence in the Lead Agency’s
administrative record.
Text Changes to the Draft EIR
Minor corrections, additions, and revisions have been made to the Draft EIR to update the
document to a Final EIR and to make changes as needed to the discussion sections. These
changes are marked by a bar on the right side of the document.
The changes made to the Draft EIR represent minor clarifications/amplifications of the analysis
contained in the Draft EIR based on on-going review by City staff and/or consultant or applicant
review and do not constitute significant new information that, in accordance with CEQA
Guidelines Section 15088.5, would trigger the need to recirculate portions or all of the Draft EIR.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
SUMMARY
The City of San Luis Obispo, in cooperation with the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans), proposes to replace the Marsh Street Bridge (Bridge Number 49C-0298) over the
San Luis Obispo Creek. Marsh Street is a one-way major arterial connector from U.S. 101
through downtown San Luis Obispo serving local, commercial, commuter, pedestrian, and
bicycle traffic. Built in 1909, the bridge is a reinforced concrete structure with T-beam girders
and consists of a single span approximately 46 feet long by 69 feet wide. The bridge carries
three lanes of traffic over the creek along with a class II bike lane and sidewalks on both sides
of the road. The Marsh Street Bridge was evaluated by Caltrans in 1986 and found to be
eligible as a historic resource for the National Register of Historic Places.
The proposed project would replace the existing bridge with a single span post-tensioned slab
bridge. The new proposed Marsh Street Bridge would clear span the San Luis Obispo Creek
and no permanent impacts to the channel are anticipated. During construction, this section of
Marsh Street is expected to be fully closed. Staged construction is not feasible due to the
deteriorated state of the structure; it is not expected to remain safe after partial demolition.
This environmental document is prepared in conformance with the requirements the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Public Resources Code 21000-21178. Caltrans is preparing
a separate environmental document consistent with the requirements of the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 40 CFR 1500-1508. Compliance with the NEPA is required
since the project intends to use federal funding to implement the project. For this project, the
City of San Luis Obispo is the CEQA lead agency.
In order to provide decision makers, the public, and reviewing agencies a complete description
of the project and a description of how this project has the potential to impact the natural and
human environment, this Environmental Impact Report has been prepared. The document
provides an overview of the project in Chapter 1, evaluates each environmental resource for
potential impacts and measures to reduce those impacts in Chapter 2, and outlines the
environmental process and public involvement in Chapter 3.
Although several alternatives were evaluated early in the preliminary planning stage, based on
public response, environmental impacts, and cost, it has been determined that one alternative is
superior to the others. This environmental document evaluates the Build Alternative and
compares the effects it would have in relation to a No-Build Alternative. A summary of the
environmental impacts associated with the Build Alternative and No-Build Alternative are
included in the table below and are discussed fully in Chapter 2 of this document.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Summary of Major Potential Impacts from Alternatives
Potential Impact Build Alternative No-Build Alternative
Visual/Aesthetics
The Build Alternative would have potential
changes in visual quality through the removal
of the existing Marsh Street Bridge and
surrounding San Luis Obispo Creek habitat
(trees), but would not significantly impact the
visual character of the project area. Visual
impacts would be less than significant.
No impact.
Air Quality and
Climate Change
(Construction)
Construction impacts to air quality are short-
term in duration and, therefore, will not result
in adverse or long-term conditions. Air quality
impacts would be less than significant.
The Build Alternative would result in minor
increases in GHG emissions during
construction; however, these impacts are short
term and would not result in a significant
increase in regional GHG.
No impact.
Natural
Communities
The Build Alternative would result in removal
of 0.10 acre of riparian habitat to provide
adequate space for construction. Riparian
habitat impacts would be mitigated by
replanting on-site or off-site at a City approved
mitigation bank. Mitigation measures would
ensure impacts are not significant.
No impact.
Wetlands and other
Waters
The Build Alternative would result in temporary
impacts to the San Luis Obispo Creek. The
City of San Luis Obispo will coordinate with the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure
appropriate mitigation measures are
implemented which would reduce these
impacts to a less than significant level.
No impact.
Plant Communities
No special status plant species have been
identified within the project area. Impacts to
plant communities would be less than
significant.
No impact.
Animal
Communities
No special status animal species (other than
those listed on the Endangered Species Act)
have been identified within the project area.
Impacts to animal communities would be less
than significant.
No impact.
Threatened and
Endangered
Species
Build Alternative has the potential to impact
the Federally Threatened California red-legged
frog and South-central California Steelhead.
Formal Section 7 Consultation with the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine
Fisheries Service will ensure that minimization
and mitigation measures can reduce
potentially significant impacts to a less than
significant level.
Under the No-Build
Alternative, the bridge would
not be replaced and would
continue to deteriorate
resulting in regular
maintenance to reduce the
possibility of failure. Regular
maintenance would result in
potentially significant
impacts to the Threatened
Species and the associated
habitat of the San Luis
Obispo Creek.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Potential Impact Build Alternative No-Build Alternative
Historic Resources
The Build Alternative would result in the
removal of the historic Marsh Street Bridge,
which is eligible for inclusion in the National
Register of Historic Places and the California
Register of Historic Places. The City will
coordinate with the State Historic Preservation
Officer to identify measures which would
lessen this impact; however, the project is
expected to result in significant and
unavoidable impacts to historic resources.
Under the No-Build
Alternative, the bridge would
not be replaced and would
continue to deteriorate
resulting in regular
maintenance to reduce the
possibility of failure.
Continuing deterioration
would eventually result in a
loss of historic integrity and
would be a significant impact
to the historic bridge.
Archaeological
Resources
The Build Alternative is not expected to
encounter any archaeological resources during
project construction. If resources are
discovered, construction will stop until a
qualified cultural specialist can determine how
to protect the sensitive resources. Impacts to
archaeological resources are not expected to
be significant.
No impact.
Utilities/Public
Services
The Build Alternative would require utility
coordination and relocation of an existing City
sewer line, AT&T fiber optic and cable
facilities, and Charter Communication fiber
optic lines. Construction is expected to require
closure of Marsh Street for approximately 6
months resulting in temporary impacts to
emergency services. These impacts are not
expected to be significant.
No impacts would occur in
the near term; however, no
improvement to the Marsh
Street Bridge will eventually
result in a long term closure
of Marsh Street due to
further deterioration of the
structure.
Hazards &
Hazardous
Materials
Concerns including asbestos containing
materials, lead-based paints, contaminated
soils, and contaminated groundwater.
Additional surveys will be conducted prior to
construction to verify the presence/extent of
Recognized Environmental Conditions and
evaluate the appropriate remediation actions.
Mitigation measures would ensure impacts are
not significant.
No impact.
Hydrology and
Water Quality
The Build Alternative will be designed to have
negligible changes to the hydraulics in the
project area to ensure that these changes
would not cause flooding up or downstream.
Construction related temporary impacts to
water quality could occur but these impacts
would be less than significant through
implementation of best management practices
during construction.
No Impact.
Noise
(Construction)
The Build Alternative would cause construction
noise which could impact adjacent businesses
along Marsh Street. Mitigation measures
would ensure impacts are not significant.
No impact.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Potential Impact Build Alternative No-Build Alternative
Transportation and
Traffic
The Build Alternative would require closure of
Marsh Street for approximately 6 months
during construction resulting in temporary
impacts to transportation and traffic. A
comprehensive traffic management plan has
been developed by the City to ensure these
impacts are reduced to a less than significant
level.
No impacts would occur in
the near term; however, no
improvement to the Marsh
Street Bridge will eventually
result in a long term closure
of Marsh Street due to
further deterioration of the
structure.
Cumulative Impacts The Build Alternative is not expected to result
in any cumulative impacts.
No impact.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Table of Contents
SUMMARY .................................................................................................................................... i
CHAPTER 1 - PROPOSED PROJECT ................................................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Purpose of CEQA and the EIR ....................................................................................... 4
1.3 Need and Purpose .......................................................................................................... 4
1.3.1 Need ........................................................................................................................ 4
1.3.2 Purpose ................................................................................................................... 4
1.4 Project Description ......................................................................................................... 5
1.5 Alternatives ..................................................................................................................... 5
1.5.1 Proposed Build Alternative ...................................................................................... 5
1.5.2 No-Build Alternative ................................................................................................. 9
1.5.3 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated From Further Discussion ........................ 10
1.6 Permits and Approvals Needed .................................................................................... 11
CHAPTER 2 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES AND
MITIGATION MEASURES ......................................................................................................... 12
2.1 Aesthetics/Visual Resources ........................................................................................ 12
2.2 Air Quality ..................................................................................................................... 18
2.3 Biological Resources .................................................................................................... 20
2.3.1 Natural Communities ............................................................................................. 20
2.3.2 Wetlands and Other Waters .................................................................................. 24
2.3.3 Plant Species ........................................................................................................ 27
2.3.4 Animal Species ...................................................................................................... 29
2.3.5 Threatened and Endangered Species ................................................................... 35
2.4 Cultural Resources ....................................................................................................... 48
2.5 Geology and Soils ........................................................................................................ 51
2.6 Hazards and Hazardous Materials ............................................................................... 52
2.7 Hydrology and Water Quality ........................................................................................ 55
2.8 Noise ............................................................................................................................ 57
2.9 Public Services ............................................................................................................. 59
2.10 Transportation and Traffic ............................................................................................ 60
2.11 Utilities and Service Systems ....................................................................................... 64
2.12 Cumulative Impacts ...................................................................................................... 67
CHAPTER 3 - COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ............................................................ 68
3.1 Scoping Process ........................................................................................................... 68
3.2 Agency Consultation and Coordination ........................................................................ 68
3.2.1 Interagency Meetings ............................................................................................ 68
3.3 Public Participation ....................................................................................................... 70
CHAPTER 4 - LIST OF PREPARERS .................................................................................. 71
CHAPTER 5 - DISTRIBUTION LIST ..................................................................................... 72
CHAPTER 6 - REFERENCES ............................................................................................... 74
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Appendices
Appendix A California Environmental Quality Act Checklist
Appendix B Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Appendix C Section 7 Consultation
Appendix D Cultural Resources Coordination
Appendix E Traffic Management Plan
Appendix F List of Acronyms
Appendix G List of Technical Studies
Appendix H Public Notice of Availability
Appendix I Public Comments and City of San Luis Obispo Responses
List of Figures
Figure 1.1-1: Project Vicnity .......................................................................................................... 2
Figure 1.1-2: Project Location ....................................................................................................... 3
Figure 1.4.1-1: Build Alternative Project Features ....................................................................... 6
Figure 1.4.1-2: Bridge General Plan ............................................................................................ 7
Figure 2.1-1: Proposed Bridge Aesthetics ................................................................................. 17
Figure 2.3.1-1: Vegetation Communities ................................................................................... 21
Figure 2.3.2-1: Project Effects to Sensitive Habitats .................................................................. 25
Figure 2.3.5-1: Project Effects to CRLF Critical Habitat ............................................................. 40
Figure 2.3.5-2: Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat ...................................................... 42
List of Tables
Table 1.5-1: Permits and Approvals ............................................................................................ 11
Table 2.2-1: San Luis Obispo County Air Quality Attainment Status ......................................... 18
Table 2.2-1: San Luis Obispo County Air Quality Attainment Status ......................................... 26
Table 2.3.3-1: Plant Species Observed in the BSA ................................................................... 28
Table 2.3.4-1: Animal Species Observed in the BSA ................................................................ 30
Table 2.3.5-1: Project Effects to CRLF Critical Habitat .............................................................. 39
Table 2.3.5-1: Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat ....................................................... 43
Table 2.6-1: Recognized Environmental Conditions Evidence .................................................. 54
Table 2.8-1: Typical Noise Levels .............................................................................................. 57
Table 2.10-1: PM Peak Hour Intersection Level of Service Analysis ......................................... 61
Table 2.11-1: Existing Utility Facilities ....................................................................................... 64
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CHAPTER 1 - PROPOSED PROJECT
1.1 Introduction
The City of San Luis Obispo, in cooperation with the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans), proposes to replace the Marsh Street Bridge (Bridge Number 49C-0298) over the
San Luis Obispo Creek. Marsh Street is a one-way major arterial connector from U.S. 101
through downtown San Luis Obispo serving local, commercial, commuter, pedestrian, and
bicycle traffic (see Figures 1.1-1 and 1.1-2 for the project Vicinity and Location). Built in 1909,
the bridge is a reinforced concrete structure with T-beam girders and consists of a single span
approximately 46 feet long by 69 feet wide. The bridge carries three lanes of traffic over the
creek along with a class II bike lane and sidewalks on both sides of the road. The Marsh Street
Bridge was evaluated by Caltrans in 1986 and found to be eligible as a historic resource for the
National Register of Historic Places.
The proposed project would replace the existing bridge with a single span post-tensioned slab
bridge. The new proposed Marsh Street Bridge would clear span the San Luis Obispo Creek
and no permanent impacts to the channel are anticipated. During construction, this section of
Marsh Street is expected to be fully closed. Staged construction is not feasible due to the
deteriorated state of the structure; it is not expected to remain safe after partial demolition.
This environmental document is prepared in conformance with the requirements the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Public Resources Code 21000-21178. Caltrans is preparing
a separate environmental document consistent with the requirements of the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 40 CFR 1500-1508. Compliance with the NEPA is required
since the project intends to use federal funding to implement the project. For this project, the
City of San Luis Obispo is the CEQA lead agency.
In order to provide decision makers, the public, and reviewing agencies a complete description
of the project and a description of how this project has the potential to impact the natural and
human environment, this Environmental Impact Report has been prepared. The document
provides an overview of the project in Chapter 1, evaluates each environmental resource for
potential impacts and measures to reduce those impacts in Chapter 2, and outlines the
environmental process and public involvement in Chapter 3.
A Caltrans bridge inspection determined that the bridge is structurally deficient due to a
combination of issues. The bridge has experienced a history of concrete spalling, corrosion of
reinforcing steel within the girder (evidenced by efflorescence and staining), poor condition of
the bridge deck, cracks in the girders, insufficient bridge foundation depth from scouring and
damage to the southern guard rail caused by vehicle collision (repaired with a K-rail). As a
result, the bridge has been recommended for replacement. The project would replace the
existing bridge over the San Luis Obispo Creek in order to provide a safe and long lasting
improvement to the transportation network in downtown San Luis Obispo. A combination of
Local Agency and Federal (Highway Bridge Program) funds are anticipated for the Marsh Street
Bridge Replacement project.
I0 10 20 Miles
Source: ESRI 2008; Dokken Engineering2/26/2015; Created By: timc
S A N L UI S O B I S P O
V:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F1.1-1_Vicinity.mxdFIGURE 1.1-1Project Vicinity
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California
PACIFIC OCEAN
San Luis ObispoCounty
^
Project Vicinity
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Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 2/26/2015; Created By: timc
Project Location
V:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F1.1-2_Location.mxdFIGURE 1.1-2Project Location
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California00.25 0.5 0.75 1 Miles
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
1.2 Purpose of CEQA and the EIR
The basic purposes of CEQA, as identified in Section 15002(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines
are to:
Inform governmental decision makers and the public about the potential, significant
environmental effects of proposed activities;
Identify ways that environmental damage can be avoided or significantly reduced;
Prevent significant, avoidable damage to the environment by requiring changes in
projects through the use of alternatives or mitigation measures when the governmental
agency finds the changes to be feasible; and,
Disclose to the public the reasons why a governmental agency approved the project in
the manner the agency chose if significant environmental effects are involved.
This EIR is intended to provide the City, interested public agencies, and the public with
information that enables intelligent consideration of the environmental consequences of the
proposed project. This EIR not only identifies potentially significant environmental effects, but
also identifies ways in which those impacts can be avoided or substantially reduced, whether
through the imposition of mitigation measures or through the implementation of specific changes
to the design of the project. In a practical sense, an EIR functions as a technique for fact-finding,
allowing the project proponent, concerned citizens, and agency staff an opportunity to
collectively review and evaluate baseline conditions and project impacts through a process of
full disclosure.
1.3 Need and Purpose
As described in the introduction above, the project is being proposed to improve a deficient and
failing part of the City of San Luis Obispo’s downtown transportation network. The bridge is
rated structurally deficient due to general deterioration and foundation scour. The need and
purpose are discussed further below.
1.3.1 Need
The existing Marsh Street Bridge is rated structurally deficient by Caltrans under Federal
Highway Administration prescribed inspection criteria. Full replacement of the bridge is needed
because the current structure does not meet structural design standards and rehabilitation will
not solve the long term structural concerns.
1.3.2 Purpose
The purpose of the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is to replace a structurally
deficient and seismically inadequate bridge in order to:
Enhance safety on one of the major one-way arterial connections between U.S. 101 and
downtown San Luis Obispo by providing a safer vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle
crossing over the San Luis Obispo Creek;
Provide a transportation facility consistent with Caltrans Standards, as well as local,
regional, and statewide plans.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
1.4 Project Description
This section describes the proposed action and the selected design alternative that was
developed to meet the identified need through accomplishing the project purposes, while
avoiding or minimizing environmental impacts. The Build Alternative is discussed below and is
contrasted with a No-Build Alternative.
The proposed project would replace the structurally deficient Marsh Street Bridge with a new
bridge structure. During construction Marsh Street is expected to be fully closed and detours
would be established for vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The project is located in Downtown San
Luis Obispo on Marsh Street between Osos Street and Santa Rosa Street. The environmental
study area encompasses approximately 3 acres. The majority of permanent improvements
would occur on City owned right-of-way; however, some temporary construction easements are
expected to be needed for the duration of construction. The project has been designed to
enhance safety on one of the major one-way arterial downtown San Luis Obispo roadways by
replacing the structurally deficient Marsh Street Bridge.
1.5 Alternatives
Several alternatives were developed and considered by the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement
Project Development Team (PDT). The PDT includes the City of San Luis Obispo staff,
Caltrans District 5 staff, as well as engineering and environmental consultants (Dokken
Engineering, Central Coast Transportation Consulting). Although several build alternatives
were considered in the preliminary planning stage, only one build alternative was selected for
full analysis in this document. Other alternatives that were considered were eliminated from
further consideration due to engineering infeasibility, substantial environmental impacts, public
and agency comments, and cost. The Build Alternative is described below, while the other
alternatives that were eliminated from further consideration are outlined in Section 1.5.3.
1.5.1 Proposed Build Alternative
Built in 1909, the Marsh Street Bridge (bridge) is a reinforced concrete structure with T-beam
girders and consists of a single span approximately 46 feet long by 69 feet wide. The bridge
carries three lanes of traffic over the creek along with a class II bike lane and sidewalks on both
sides of the road. The Marsh Street Bridge was evaluated by Caltrans in 1986 and found to be
eligible as a historic resource for the National Register of Historic Places.
A Caltrans bridge inspection report dated December 9, 2008, concluded that the bridge is
structurally deficient due to a combination of issues. The bridge’s structural deficiency rating is
based on the bridge structure’s history of concrete spalling, corrosion of reinforcing steel within
the concrete girder (evidenced by efflorescence and staining), poor condition of the bridge deck,
girder cracks, insufficient bridge foundation depth caused by creekflow scouring, and damage to
the southern guard rail caused by vehicle collision (repaired with a concrete “K-rail” vehicle
barrier). As a result, the bridge is recommended for replacement by Caltrans. The proposed
project would replace the existing bridge over the San Luis Obispo Creek in order to provide a
safe, long lasting improvement to San Luis Obispo’s downtown transportation network in.
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 12/3/2015; Created By: timcV:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F1.4.1-1_Project Features.mxdS
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FIGURE 1.4.1-1Project Features
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California050100150200FeetI
Project Area
Proposed Bridge Replacement
Potential Staging Area
Proposed Construction Access
Marsh StreetPacific StreetHiguera Street
Source: Bing 2011; Dokken Engineering 2/26/2015; Created By: timc/V:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F1.4.1-2_Bridge_General_Plan.mxdFIGURE 1.4.1-2Bridge General Plan
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, CaliforniaINot to Scale
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
A combination of Local Agency and Federal (Highway Bridge Program) funds are anticipated for
the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement project.
The proposed project would replace the existing bridge with a single span post-tensioned slab
bridge. The proposed abutments would be located in approximately the same location as the
existing abutments. The new bridge would be 69 feet wide and 47 feet long. The abutments will
be skewed 21 degrees in parallel with the creek channel. Removal of the existing bridge
wingwalls would be needed. Abutment 1 (easterly side) would require new wing walls to tie into
the existing retaining walls along the creek channel. At the southerly corner the wing wall would
come straight back along the sidewalk and tie into the existing retaining wall. At Abutment 2
(westerly side), a new retaining wall would be needed at the north end. The wall would run
perpendicular to Marsh Street and is expected to be 40 feet long. The southerly wing wall
would run along the sidewalk at the south corner And tie into an existing retaining wall. The
abutments would be supported on a micro-pile foundation system. A 10-foot approach slab
would be constructed at both bridge abutments.
The proposed bridge would clear span San Luis Obispo Creek and no permanent impacts to the
channel are anticipated. In order to provide enough room for construction, a temporary clear
buffer of 25 feet from the edge of each side of the bridge may be needed. Therefore, the
existing riparian habitat may need to be trimmed or removed to accommodate construction. It is
anticipated that the maximum bridge abutment excavation depth would be 10 feet below the
surface level of San Luis Obispo Creek. The excavation is needed to prepare the location for fill
and placement of footings and piles that would support the new bridge abutments. However,
this work will be performed outside the creek channel.
There are active commercial properties adjacent to the bridge on the northeast, northwest, and
southwest corners. On the southwest corner is the driveway which serves a regional kidney
dialysis center and its adjacent parking lot, and on the northeast corner is an exit point for
parking for an office building. Construction activities may limit or eliminate these traditional
access points on Marsh Street for businesses; however, during the right-of-way phase, the City
will investigate alternative access routes with a goal of providing continuous alternative access
to all affected businesses throughout construction. Construction staging will occur on Marsh
Street or on adjacent commercial property parking lots within the project study area.
Minor utility relocation activities are expected on the bridge approach roadways. The new
bridge would contain conduits for bridge lighting, communications and future uses. The new
bridge would also support a water line. A new sewer siphon will be constructed under the new
bridge and creek to replace the existing siphon that is in conflict with the proposed bridge
abutments. All utility relocation activities would be performed within the project study area.
1.5.2 No-Build Alternative
The No-Build, or “Do Nothing,” Alternative would not replace the structurally deficient Marsh
Street Bridge over the San Luis Obispo Creek. If the No-Build Alternative is selected the
existing bridge would remain out of compliance with structural design standards and would be at
risk of closure as deterioration continues. The facility would not be consistent with local
transportation planning in the region and a permanent closure of Marsh Street would have
substantial negative impacts to traffic and businesses in the downtown area. Adjacent business
access would also suffer in such a condition. None of the environmental impacts associated
with construction of the proposed bridge would occur. However, the existing bridge would
continue to lose integrity due to deterioration.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
1.5.3 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated From Further Discussion
1.5.3.1 Bridge Rehabilitation
An alternative that would rehabilitate the existing Marsh Street Bridge was studied by the City of
San Luis Obispo in an Alternatives Study report in January 2013. The Rehabilitation Alternative
would improve superstructure condition, replace deficient railing, and correct drainage
deficiencies. Structural improvement would be made to the abutments and existing spalls in the
bridge concrete would be repaired. The existing bridge deck would be repaired by removing the
existing asphalt overlay and replacing it with a polyester concrete overlay.
The Bridge Rehabilitation Alternative would cost less than a replacement alternative, has the
shortest construction time, and the least environmental impacts, including retaining the historic
bridge structure. However, the Bridge Rehabilitation alternative does not replace the
deteriorating concrete superstructure that will continue to crack and spall as it ages. At best,
this alternative would simply delay the need to replace the bridge and would result in, at best, an
additional 20 years of service life before additional major rehabilitation or replacement would be
needed. Drainage issues would not be resolved and could further reduce the useful life of the
bridge. Because of these long-term structural deficiencies, the Bridge Rehabilitation Alternative
does not meet the project purpose and need, and the City has eliminated it from further
consideration.
1.5.3.2 Bridge Replacement with Staged Construction
A variation of the Build Alternative was considered which would involve a staged bridge
construction in order to keep one vehicle travel lane of Marsh Street open during construction.
This would have been accomplished by demolishing approximately half of the existing bridge
and constructing half of the new bridge in its place. This would allow the City to maintain one
lane of traffic. Traffic would be shifted to the new half bridge, while the second half would be
demolished and constructed during the second phase of construction. This alternative would
result in a substantially longer construction period, possibly spanning two construction seasons.
After further analysis of the structure, this alternative was eliminated because of existing
bridge’s age and advanced deterioration. The bridge’s condition may not allow for safe vehicle
transit after demolition of the first half, which would negate the benefit of this alternative and it
has been eliminated from further consideration.
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1.6 Permits and Approvals Needed
The following permits, reviews, and approvals would be required for project construction:
Table 1.6-1: Permits and Approvals
Agency Permit/Approval
California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans)
National Environmental Policy Act Lead Agency – The
federal nexus for this project is federal funding from
FHWA.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS)
Section 7 Consultation for Threatened and Endangered
Species (California Red-Legged Frog).
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA)
Section 7 Consultation for Threatened and Endangered
Species (South-central California Coast Steelhead).
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 Permit (Nationwide 14) for fill into Waters of
the U.S.
Central Coast Regional Water Quality
Control Board (RWQCB)
Section 401 Water Quality Certification for discharges to
a water body.
State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB)
Section 402 National Pollution Discharge Elimination
System General Construction Permit.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW)
Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement for
modifications of the bed, bank, or channel of a stream,
including impacts to vegetation.
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CHAPTER 2 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES AND MITIGATION MEASURES
This chapter explains the impacts that the proposed project could have on the human, physical,
and biological environments in the project area. It describes the existing environment that could
be affected by the project, potential impacts from the Build Alternative and No-Build Alternative,
and proposed avoidance, minimization, and/or mitigation measures pursuant to CEQA
requirements. A CEQA initial study checklist, which evaluates the level of impacts under each
environmental resource, is included under Appendix A.
As part of the project scoping and environmental analysis, the following environmental issues
were considered but no impacts were identified. Consequently, there is no further discussion
regarding these issues in this document:
Agriculture and Forest Resources – The project area does not contain farmlands or
timberlands. The project area is primarily made up of commercial, park, and open space
land uses.
Land Use and Planning – The proposed project would improve but not expand, existing
transportation facilities, consistent with local, regional, state, and federal planning
documents. No changes in adjacent land uses would occur.
Mineral Resources – No mineral resources are known to occur in the project area.
Population and Housing – No new roadway capacity is planned and the project would
have no impacts on growth or the availability and demand for housing.
Recreation – No impacts to recreation facilities or recreation opportunities would occur
as a result of the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement.
2.1 Aesthetics/Visual Resources
Affected Environment
The project area topography of downtown San Luis Obispo is predominately flat, and
encompasses the downtown grid comprised predominately of commercial uses and
transportation facilities. The project area is located on Marsh Street between Osos Street and
Santa Rosa Street. The key project area visual features include commercial buildings, the San
Luis Obispo Creek and associated riparian habitat, the Marsh Street Bridge, and Cheng Park.
San Luis Obispo Creek runs perpendicular to Marsh Street in the project area and flows
northwest under the bridge. San Luis Obispo Creek flows to the California coast and terminates
at the Pacific Ocean.
Viewer groups in the project vicinity are motorists, cyclists and pedestrians using Marsh Street
and commercial businesses in the project area. Motorists are the most numerous viewer group;
however, their sensitivity is relatively low due to the short time span spent along the proposed
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project area. Moreover, the views from the roadway and bridge are minimally exposed because
the topography and bridge obstruct the view. The majority of motorists pass over the Marsh
Street Bridge without realizing it is a bridge due to the consistent roadway width and relatively
narrow width of the San Luis Obispo Creek in the project area.
Commercial businesses potential view exposure is higher because of their long-term and
constant presence in the area. However, business’ viewer awareness is low, because of the
obscured views of the existing bridge and roadway, lack of scenery provided by surrounding
topography, and lack of memorable views. It is presumed that commercial businesses in the
project area were not likely drawn to this location because of the view shed, since there is a lack
of views.
Photo 1: View from Marsh Street near the intersection with Osos Street, looking northeast.
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Photo 2: View from the Merrill Lynch office building looking northeast.
Photo 3: View from the Davita Dialysis Center, looking north.
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Photo 4: View from the sidewalk adjacent to the Cheng Park looking southwest.
Photo 5: View of the Marsh Street Bridge railing (damaged) and San Luis Obispo Creek
riparian habitat
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Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
The proposed Build Alternative would demolish the existing Marsh Street Bridge and replace it
with a similar bridge on the same alignment. The replacement bridge will provide the same
three vehicular travel lanes as well as class II bicycle facilities and sidewalks on both sides of
the bridge. The replacement bridge will be designed to aesthetically replicate the original style
of the historic Marsh Street Bridge including aesthetic treatments to the bridge railings, and
replacement of the existing lighting with period appropriate luminaire style lighting (see figure
2.1-1).
Permanent changes to the overall viewshed in the project area will be minimal. The
replacement bridge, once completed, will appear very similar to the existing condition. The
most noticeable change will be an improvement to the existing damaged bridge railing which
has been temporarily repaired with type K railing (see photo 5). Views from the adjacent
businesses are expected to be substantially unchanged or improved, and vehicle and
pedestrian views will not change.
The most substantive project area change will be caused by the temporary removal of
vegetation to accommodate construction access and other construction activities. Several
mature trees and associated understory vegetation will be removed in the immediate area
surrounding the bridge. Changes to the viewshed as a result of vegetation removal will be
moderately noticeable; however, the riparian vegetation associated with San Luis Obispo Creek
continues beyond the construction area and project area and would minimize view impact of the
closer vegetation that is likely to be removed during construction. As such, while the details of
the views in the context of vegetation would change, the overall context of those views would
remain similar.
Temporary Impacts
Vegetation removal will cause temporary visual impacts until the vegetation regrows. In addition,
project construction activities would result in the short-term presence of construction vehicles
and equipment, grading and vegetation clearing throughout the project area. Storage of
equipment and materials would occur at a staging area on-site and outside of the creek. The
presence of construction vehicles and equipment and grading activities would result in a low to
moderate temporary change in the visual character of the project site. These activities would be
short term and disturbed areas would be revegetated and not permanently disturbed. The
temporary visual impact of construction activities is considered low to moderate and is not
expected to result in a substantial adverse response to the typical viewer.
Mitigation Measures
Project construction would introduce minor changes to views but would not alter the character of
the project area. Impacts to the natural and landscaped vegetation, within the project area and
along the riparian vegetation of the San Luis Obispo Creek, would be mitigated through
revegetation efforts as part of the process to ensure that biological resources are not
substantially affected (see Section 2.3). Although impacts to visual resources are less than
significant, these revegetation efforts would further reduce the long term changes to the visual
environment.
Source: Bing 2011; Dokken Engineering 4/6/2015; Created By: timc/V:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F2.1-1_Bridge_Aesthetics.mxdFIGURE 2.1-1Proposed Bridge Aesthetics
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, CaliforniaINot to Scale
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CEQA Determination
Because of the lack of visual sensitivity in the area, as well as a lack of sensitive viewer groups,
combined with the minimal expected permanent changes to the predominant views of the
project area, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to have a less than
significant impact on Aesthetics/Visual Resources.
2.2 Air Quality
Affected Environment
The proposed project is located with the City of San Luis Obispo and under the air quality
jurisdiction of the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB). As shown in the Table 2.2-1 below San Luis Obispo County is
designated as a non-attainment area for ozone and Particulate Matter (10 microns or less).
Table 2.2-1: San Luis Obispo County Air Quality Attainment Status
Emission AQ Status
Ozone (O3) Non-Attainment
Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) Attainment
Particulate Matter 10 (PM10) Non-Attainment
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Attainment
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) Attainment
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Attainment
Sulfates Attainment
Lead (pb) Attainment
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Attainment
Source: California Air Resources Board, 2013
Ambient air quality is affected by climate conditions, topography, and airflow patterns. The
climate of San Luis Obispo County consists of warm, dry summers and cooler, relatively damp
winters. Along the coast, mild temperatures are the rule throughout the year due to the
moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean. This moderation diminishes inland with distance from
the ocean or by major intervening terrain features, such as the coastal mountain ranges.
Airflow plays an important role in the movement and dispersion of pollutants in the region.
During much of the year, onshore winds from the northwest generally prevail during the day,
flushing out pollutants. At night, the sea breeze weakens, and airflows reverse with cooler air
draining from the mountains. Occasionally, this pattern breaks down and stagnant conditions
form, with pollutants building up and raking back and forth across the region with weak onshore
and offshore breezes.
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Environmental Consequences
Permanent Impacts
The proposed project would not result in any increase in vehicular capacity, nor would it result in
a worsening of traffic conditions. No increases in vehicle miles traveled or vehicles hours
traveled are expected. The project would remove the existing three-lane Marsh Street Bridge
and replace it with a new three lane bridge in its existing alignment. No permanent changes to
air quality or emissions generation is expected to occur as a result of this project.
Temporary Impacts
During construction, short-term degradation of air quality may occur due to the release of
particulate emissions (airborne dust) generated by excavation, grading, hauling, and other
activities related to construction. Emissions from construction equipment also are anticipated
and would include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), directly-emitted particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), and toxic air contaminants such as
diesel exhaust particulate matter. Ozone is a regional pollutant that is derived from NOx and
VOCs in the presence of sunlight and heat.
Heavy trucks and construction equipment powered by gasoline and diesel engines would
generate CO, SO2, NOx, VOCs and some particulate matter in exhaust emissions. Construction
activities are also expected to increase local traffic congestion, resulting in higher CO and other
emissions from traffic while those vehicles are delayed. These emissions would be temporary
and limited to the local downtown San Luis Obispo area surrounding the construction site.
Although emission increases are anticipated, due to the small size of the project and
construction area, as well as the limited duration of construction period (estimated at six
months), temporary air quality impacts are not expected to result in any significant impact to the
environment. Dust generated would result in a temporary, local impact, limited to areas of
construction. Dust control practices would be incorporated into the project to mitigate this
potential impact. The dust control practices would comply with the current Caltrans’ Standard
Specifications. The City of San Luis Obispo will also include air quality best management
practices (BMPs) into the project specifications which would include restrictions on construction
vehicle idling, use of appropriate catalytic converters on all construction equipment,
minimization of track out and other construction actions that would increase dust, as well as
other BMPs provided by the San Luis Obispo Air Pollution Control District.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change
Similar to other emissions, no permanent increases in greenhouse gas emissions are expected
as a result of this project. Construction and vehicle delay caused by the closure of Marsh Street
may cause a temporary increase on greenhouse gas emissions; however, it is unlikely that
these short term and relatively small increases will result in any measureable change in the
regional conditions. In the absence of further regulatory or scientific information related to
greenhouse gas emissions and CEQA significance, it is too speculative to make a significance
determination regarding the project’s direct and indirect impact with respect to climate change.
The City of San Luis Obispo does remain firmly committed to implementing measures to help
reduce the potential effects of the project. The BMPs identified for other emissions will help
reduce potential increases in greenhouse gas emissions from construction and the traffic
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
management plan (discussed in Section 2.10 Traffic and Transportation of this EIR) will reduce
potential increases in greenhouse gas emission due to temporary increases in congestion.
Mitigation Measures
No air quality mitigation measures are required. Construction related air quality impacts and
emissions will be minimized through BMPs required by the City of San Luis Obispo and the San
Luis Obispo Air Pollution Control District throughout construction.
CEQA Determination
No permanent impacts to air quality are expected to occur as a result of this project. Short-term
construction related air quality impacts have been identified, but due to the small size of the
project and short duration of construction, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is
expected to have a less than significant impact on Air Quality.
2.3 Biological Resources
The following sections summarize the Natural Environment Study (NES) and Biological
Assessment (BA) that were prepared for the proposed project in October of 2014. The
biological study area (BSA) was established as the area within which permanent and temporary
project impacts (e.g. cut slopes, fill areas, temporary access roads, construction staging areas,
etc.) could potentially occur. All potential impacts from the proposed build alternative are
included in this area. The biological environment section of this document is divided into the
following categories: natural communities, wetlands and other waters, plant species, animal
species, threatened and endangered species, and invasive species. Biological investigations
for the proposed project were guided by correspondence with the relevant resource agencies.
In addition to field work, literature research was reviewed to identify what types of sensitive plant
and animal wildlife would be likely to occur within or nearby the project area. This literature
research included review of United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Species List,
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) California Natural Diversity Database
(CNDDB) and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Electronic Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Plants.
2.3.1 Natural Communities
Affected Environment
The BSA was created with an approximate 100-foot buffer around all permanent and temporary
project impacts including proposed Right of Way (ROW), construction easements, and potential
staging areas. The BSA covers approximately 8.3 acres, including Marsh Street where it
crosses San Luis Obispo Creek between Osos Street and Santa Rosa Street in the City of San
Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California. Most of the BSA is comprised of heavily
developed urban hardscape but it also contains a small section of valley foothill riparian located
adjacent to San Luis Obispo Creek (CDFG 1988) (see Figure 2.3.1-1: Vegetation Communities).
Commercial and residential developments along the project consist of hardscape, compacted
soils, and disturbed native and non-native vegetation.
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 4/6/2015; Created By: timcV:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F2.3.1-1_Vegetation Communities.mxdS
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Valley Foothill Riparian
Urban/Landscape
San Luis Obispo Creek
FIGURE 2.3.1-1Vegetation Communities
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
The BSA is in the United States Geological Survey (USGS) San Luis Obispo 7½ minute
quadrangle. Topographical features in the project vicinity are characterized by creeks and
mountain features such as Cerro San Luis Obispo Mountain to the west, Reservoir Canyon to
the east and the Santa Lucia Range to the north. The project crosses the topographical feature,
San Luis Obispo Creek at approximately 215 feet above mean sea level.
The dominant soil types in the project area are composed of silty clay loams. Soils are
moderately well drained, with a very high runoff rate. The soil series within the BSA include:
Concepcion loam, 2 to 5 percent slope; and Salinas silty clay loam, 0 to 9 percent slope
(Ernstrom 1984 and California Soil Resource Lab [CSRL] 2013).
The BSA is located in the Central California Coast floristic region. Regional vegetation typically
includes mixed hardwood forest, coastal prairie-scrub, coastal sagebrush, mixed hardwood,
redwood forest, and coastal perennial grassland communities (USDA 1998). Vegetation
communities specific to the BSA are valley foothill riparian and urban/landscaped. Detailed
descriptions of these habitats are provided below.
Valley Foothill Riparian
Valley foothill riparian habitat typically is characterized by deciduous trees, shrubs, forbs, and
shade-tolerant grasses at elevations between sea level and 3,000 feet (CDFG 1988). Dominant
plant species specific to valley foothill riparian onsite include Fremont cottonwoods (Populus
fremontii), California sycamores (Platanus racemosa) white alder (Alnus rhombifolia), bluegum
eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) and arroyo willows (Salix lasiolepis). Understory consists of
dense elm leaf blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius), blue elderberry shrubs (Sambucus nigra),
California blackberry (Rubus ursinus), dense cape ivy (Delairea odorata) and English ivy
(Hedera helix). Human transient camps with debris are also apparent within the valley foothill
riparian vegetation as well as under the current Marsh Street Bridge. The vegetation and
habitat composition along the creek is greatly constricted due to urban development
immediately adjacent to the channel. Approximately 0.62 acres (0.45 acres of valley foothill
riparian and 0.17 acres of San Luis Obispo Creek) of waters of the state exist within the BSA.
Urban/Landscaped
Urban/landscaped lands consist of existing roadways, landscaping, and urban development.
Only the landscaped portion is vegetated, and the plants consist primarily of horticultural trees
and shrubs, with limited areas of herbaceous flowering plants. Within the BSA,
urban/landscaped lands comprise approximately 7.7 acres of the BSA.
Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
The project area lies within the Central California Coast, a biologically diverse ecosystem known
to support unique and endemic species. Biological surveys were conducted to assess natural
communities existing in the BSA. Surveys concluded that the San Luis Obispo Creek is a
jurisdictional waters of the U.S., State and CDFW (valley foothill riparian), which warrant special
concern within the BSA. Section 2.3.2 provides a more thorough evaluation of impacts to these
sensitive habitats and includes measures appropriate to reduce potential impacts to the habitat
within the project area. No other natural communities of special concern exist within the BSA.
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Direct and indirect impacts to plant communities would occur under the proposed Build
Alternative. A portion of urban habitat would be occupied and disturbed by construction, as well
as areas of valley foothill riparian. Impacted trees within these areas would need to be removed
during the demolition and construction processes. Damage to adjacent trees’ root systems may
occur due to soil compaction during fill activities or because of direct root damage during cut
activities. Trees and shrubs that may be indirectly impacted were considered to be directly
impacted for the purposes of this analysis.
San Luis Obispo Creek, a natural lined creek feature, likely acts as a migration corridor for
wildlife in the area, providing access between wildlife habitats free from vehicular and human
disturbance. As the project is replacing the existing facility, any impacts to wildlife migrations
associated with project construction will be temporary; therefore, impacts to the migration
corridor are not expected. At project completion, full usage of the channel as a migration
corridor would be restored.
No-Build Alternative
Under the No-Build Alternative, no impacts to natural communities are expected because no
construction would occur. No trees would be removed and no biological habitats would be
affected.
Mitigation Measures
Measure BIO-1: Vegetation clearing will only occur within the delineated project boundaries.
Trees located in areas along the edge of the construction zone should be trimmed instead of
removed, wherever possible. Trees and vegetation should be removed in the late fall through
winter months, to the greatest extent practicable.
Measure BIO-2: All riparian areas temporarily disturbed during project construction will be
restored onsite to pre-project conditions or better prior to project completion. The City will
prepare habitat restoration planting plans in coordination with arborist/landscape architect and
project biologist prior to construction. Prior to implementation, the project will receive approval
from water regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over San Luis Obispo Creek and adjacent
riparian habitat.
Measure BIO-3: To minimize permanent lighting within the San Luis Obispo Creek riparian
corridor, any lighting proposed to be established on the Marsh Street Bridge must be shielded
and directed away from the creek.
Measure BIO-4: Prior to arrival at the project site and prior to leaving the project site,
construction equipment that may contain invasive plants and/or seeds must be cleaned to
reduce the spreading of noxious weeds.
Measure BIO-5: To avoid the export of invasive plant species during construction, soil or plant
material will be disposed of at a certified landfill.
CEQA Determination
A small area of valley foothill riparian habitat will be impacted during project construction. The
City will mitigate the impact of this vegetation and habitat loss by proposing onsite replanting
through a habitat restoration plan. As such there is a potential for significant impacts to Natural
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Communities as a result of project construction; however, those impacts would be reduced to a
less than significant level through habitat mitigation.
2.3.2 Wetlands and Other Waters
Wetlands and other waters are protected under a number of laws and regulations. At the federal
level, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, more commonly referred to as the Clean Water
Act (CWA)(33 USC 1344), is the primary law regulating wetlands and surface waters. One
purpose of the CWA is to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the
U.S., including wetlands. Waters of the U.S. include navigable waters, interstate waters,
territorial seas and other waters that may be used in interstate or foreign commerce. To classify
wetlands for the purposes of the CWA, a three-parameter approach is used that includes the
presence of hydrophytic (water-loving) vegetation, wetland hydrology, and hydric soils (soils
formed during saturation/inundation). All three parameters must be present, under normal
circumstances, for an area to be designated as a jurisdictional wetland under the CWA.
Affected Environment
A jurisdictional survey assessment was conducted to identify potential waters of the U.S. and
waters of the State. Surveys identified the San Luis Obispo Creek, which drains into San Luis
Bay at the Pacific Ocean. The feature was provided preliminary jurisdictional status based on its
connectivity to known jurisdictional waters and direct connectivity to the Pacific Ocean. As
waters of the U.S. also fall under jurisdiction of the State and CDFW, regulatory permits will be
obtained from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Regional Water Quality
Control Board (RWQCB), and CDFW.
San Luis Obispo Creek
During field surveys, San Luis Obispo Creek was observed within project limits and flows west
through the project area with a natural cobble substrate streambed (USFWS 2014).
Approximately 0.17 acres of jurisdictional waters of the U.S occur within the BSA. Surrounding
these Waters of the U.S. are an additional 0.45 acres of valley foothill riparian vegetation in the
BSA which is regulated by CDFW. San Luis Obispo Creek has natural, varied streambeds
composed of cobbles and large rocks embedded with sediment (silt, clay or sand). The channel
is approximately three to eight feet wide with a mean depth of approximately two feet. A narrow
riparian corridor with marginal associated shaded riverine aquatic cover beside the San Luis
Obispo Creek is comprised of low overhanging, aquatic and dense invasive vegetation.
Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
Permanent Impacts
No permanent impacts to Waters of the U.S. are expected to occur and less than 0.01 acres of
permanent impacts to Waters of the State are anticipate (Figure 2.3.2-1: Project Effects to
Sensitive Habitats).
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 4/20/2015; Created By: timcV:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F2.3.2-1_Project_Effects_to_Sensitive_Habitats.mxdMarsh StreetS
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Waters of the U.S. (San Luis Obispo Creek)Waters of the State (Valley Foothill Riparian)
Permanent Effects
Waters of the State (<0.01 acres)Temporary Effects
Water of the U.S (0.05 acres)Water of the State (0.10 acres)
Water of the State-Un-Vegetated (0.04 acres)
Effects to TreesTrees to be Removed (2 trees)Trees to be Trimmed (3 trees)
Trees Protected by ESA Fencing (6 trees)
FIGURE 2.3.2-1Project Effects to Sensitive Habitats
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Temporary Impacts
The replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge will temporarily modify a small portion of San Luis
Obispo Creek and associated valley foothill riparian vegetation. The project will temporarily
impact approximately 0.05 acre of Waters of the U.S. and approximately 0.14 acre of Waters of
the State (CDFW vegetated valley foothill riparian and CDFW un-vegetated)
Figure 2.3.2-1 shows the limits of the Waters of the U.S. and Waters of the State within the
project area as well as the proposed impacts to waters and associated riparian habitat. Table
2.3.2-1 provides a record of the permanent and temporary impacts to each of the types of water
habitat in the BSA.
Table 2.2-1: San Luis Obispo County Air Quality Attainment Status
Jurisdictional Waters Permanent Impacts
(acres)
Temporary Impacts
(acres)
Effects to Waters of the U.S. N/A 0.05
Effects to Waters of the State
(unvegetated) N/A 0.04
Effects to Waters of the State
(Vegetated Valley Foothill Riparian) <0.01 0.10
Total Waters <0.01 0.19
Source: Marsh Street Bridge Natural Environment Study, 2014
No-Build Alternative
Under the No-Build Alternative, no impacts to Waters of the U.S. or State are expected because
no construction would occur. The existing condition of water features in the project study area
would remain unchanged.
Mitigation Measures
Prior to the start of construction within the jurisdictions of Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the
State, the City of San Luis Obispo will need to obtain all necessary regulatory permits. These
permits are expected to include a CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the
RWQCB, a CWA Section 404 Nationwide 14 Permit from the USACE, and a Fish and Game
Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement from the CDFW. Measures provided in
these permits will need to be implemented prior to, during, and after construction.
The project has been designed to minimize temporary and permanent impacts to San Luis
Obispo Creek, and associated riparian vegetation, as they have been identified as Waters of the
U.S. and State. Project measures and BMPs incorporated into the design would minimize the
effects of construction activities on the channel. The project would comply with the following
measures:
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Measures BIO-6: The project limits in proximity to San Luis Obispo Creek and valley foothill
riparian habitat will be delineated prior to any ground disturbing activities with high visibility
Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) fencing or staking to ensure construction will not further
encroach into channels.
Measure BIO-7: Erosion Control Measures will be implemented during construction. To
minimize the mobilization of sediment to adjacent water bodies, the following erosion-control
and sediment-control measures will be included in the construction specifications, based on
standard Caltrans measures and standard dust-reduction measures.
Soil exposure must be minimized through the use of temporary BMPs, groundcover, and
stabilization measures;
The contractor must conduct periodic maintenance of erosion- and sediment-control
measures.
Measure BIO-8: To conform to water quality requirements, the Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must include the following:
Vehicle maintenance, staging and storing equipment, materials, fuels, lubricants,
solvents, and other possible contaminants shall be a minimum of 60 feet from riparian or
aquatic habitats. Any necessary equipment washing shall occur where the water cannot
flow into San Luis Obispo Creek. The project proponent will prepare a spill prevention
and clean-up plan;
Construction equipment will not be operated in flowing water;
Construction work must be conducted according to site-specific construction plans that
minimize the potential for sediment input to San Luis Obispo Creek;
Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil
or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic
life shall be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering San Luis Obispo Creek;
Equipment used in and around San Luis Obispo Creek must be in good working order
and free of dripping or leaking engine fluids; and,
Any surplus concrete rubble, asphalt, or other debris from construction must be taken to
a City approved disposal site.
CEQA Determination
A small area of jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. and State will be impacted during project
construction. The City will coordinate with the USACE, RWQCB, and CDFW to obtain the
appropriate permits which would authorize construction activities within their jurisdiction. Permit
requirements and the above mitigation measures would ensure that impacts to jurisdictional
waters are minimized where possible. As such there is a potential for significant impacts to
Wetlands and other Waters as a result of project construction; however, those impacts would be
mitigated to a less than significant level.
2.3.3 Plant Species
The USFWS and CDFW share regulatory responsibility for the protection of special-status plant
species. “Special-status” species are selected for protection because they are rare and/or
subject to population and habitat declines. Special status is a general term for species that are
afforded varying levels of regulatory protection. The highest level of protection is given to
threatened and endangered species; these are species that are formally listed or proposed for
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listing as endangered or threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) and/or
the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). Please see the Threatened and Endangered
Species Section 2.3.5 in this document for detailed information regarding these species.
This section of the document discusses all of the other special-status plant species, including
CDFW fully protected species and species of special concern, USFWS candidate species, and
non-listed CNPS rare and endangered plants.
Affected Environment
Surveys conducted on May 24, 2013 by Dokken Engineering biologists included a habitat
assessment and focused surveys for special-status plant species. Habitat conditions within the
BSA were determined to not be potentially suitable for sensitive plant species.
Common native plant species that were observed within the BSA are listed under Table 2.3.3-1.
Table 2.3.3-1: Plant Species Observed in the BSA
Scientific Name Common Name Native (N) / Non-
Native (X)
Acanthus mollis Oyster plant X
Acer macrophyllum Bigleaf maple N
Aloe arborescens Tree aloe X
Alnus rhombifolia White alder N
Arbutus unedo Strawberry tree X
Bromus diantrus Ripgut X (invasive)
Buxus sempervirens Common boxwood X
Cedrus deodara Deodara cedar X
Corylus sp. Hazelnut sp. --
Cotoneaster sp. Cotoneaster sp. X
Cyperus squarrosus Umbrella sedge N
Delairea odorata Cape ivy X (invasive)
Deschampsia cespitosa California hairgrass N
Equisetum arvense Common horsetail N
Eucalyptus globulus Bluegum eucalyptus X
Foeniculum vulgare Fennel X (invasive)
Fraxinus dipetala California ash N
Hedera helix English ivy X (invasive)
Ilex aquifolium English holly X (invasive)
Ipomoea indica Oceanblue morning glory X
Jasminum sp. Jasmine X
Juglans californica California walnut N
Lantana camara Lantana X
Lavandula sp. Lavender X
Ligustrum lucidum Glossy privet X
Magnolia grandiflora Southern magnolia X
Mentha sp. Mint sp. --
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Scientific Name Common Name Native (N) / Non-
Native (X)
Nandina domestica Heavenly bamboo X
Nasturtium officinale Watercress N
Persea americana Avocado X
Phalaris arundinacea Ribbon grass X
Platanus racemosa California sycamore N
Populus fremontii Fremont cottonwood N
Rosa sp. Wild rose N
Rubus ameniacus Himalayan blackberry X (invasive)
Rubus ulmifolius Elm leaf blackberry X
Rubus ursinus California blackberry N
Salix lasiolepis Arroyo willow N
Sambucus nigra Blue elderberry N
Sequoia sempervirens Redwood N
Typha sp. Cattail sp. unknown
Ulmus sp. Elm sp. unknown
Verbascum thapsus Common mullein X
Vinca major Bigleaf periwinkle X (invasive)
Yucca aliofolia Spanish bayonet X
Source: Natural Environment Study, 2014
Environmental Consequences
During the focused botanical surveys on May 24, 2013 no sensitive plant species were
observed; therefore, all plant species are presumed absent. No impacts to special-status plant
species are anticipated as a result of this project.
Mitigation Measures
No measures are needed for special-status plant species.
CEQA Determination
The project will involve removal of riparian vegetation around the Marsh Street Bridge to
accommodate construction activities. No special-status plant species were identified in the
project area. Due to the minimal amount of plants that need to be removed and no presence of
special-status species in the BSA, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to
have a less than significant impact on Plant Species.
2.3.4 Animal Species
Many state and federal laws regulate impacts to wildlife. The USFWS, the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries and the CDFW are responsible for implementing
these laws. This section discusses potential impacts and permit requirements associated with
wildlife not listed or proposed for listing under the CESA or FESA.
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Affected Environment
On March 24, September 22, 2013 and July 25, 2014, Dokken Engineering biologists surveyed
the BSA. The surveys included a biological reconnaissance with focused attention for the
following ten special-status species: California red-legged frog (CRLF) (Rana draytonii), foothill
yellow-legged frog (FYLF) (Rana boylii), western pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata), South-
central California coast steelhead (steelhead) (Oncorhynchus mykiss), pallid bat (Antrozous
pallidus), western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis), least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus),
southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), western yellow billed cuckoo
(Coccycus americanus), and purple martin (Progne subis). None of the special status species
were observed during the biological survey, however potentially suitable habitat was determined
to be present for CRLF, FYLF, steelhead, western pond turtle, least Bell’s vireo, southwestern
willow flycatcher, western yellow billed cuckoo, and purple martin. A Sensitive Bird Habitat
Assessment was also conducted on May 3, 2013 for least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow
flycatcher, western yellow billed cuckoo and those surveys did not observe any sensitive
species within the BSA; however, potentially suitable migratory habitat was observed.
Threatened and/or endangered animal species such as CRLF, steelhead, least Bell’s vireo,
southwestern willow flycatcher, and western yellow billed cuckoo are discussed in Section 2.3.5
below). Common native animal species observed within the BSA can be found in Table 2.3.4-1.
Table 2.3.4-1: Animal Species Observed in the BSA
Scientific Name Common Name Native (N) / Non-
Native (X)
BIRDS
Anas platyrhynchos Domestic mallard N
Bombycilla cedrorum Cedar waxwing N
Carduelius psaltria Lesser goldfinch N
Columba livia Rock dove X
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow N
Corvus corax Common raven N
Empidonax difficilis Pacific-sloped flycatcher N
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch N
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow N
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher N
Oreothlypis ruficapilla Nashville warbler N
Passer domesticus House sparrow X
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall’s woodpecker N
Pipilo crissalis California towhee N
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe N
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow N
Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared dove X
Turdus migratorius American robin N
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove N
MAMMALS
Thomomys bottae Botta’s pocket gopher N
Source: Marsh Street Bridge Natural Environment Study, 2014
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The following listed special animal species have the potential to exist within the project area, or
suitable habitat has been identified within the BSA.
Foothill yellow-legged frog
The foothill yellow-legged frog (FYLF) is not a State or Federally listed species, but is a CDFW
Species of Special Concern. FYLFs can be found in partly-shaded shallow streams and rocky
riffles in a variety of habitats including valley-foothill hardwood, valley-foothill riparian, mixed
conifer, coastal scrub, and mixed chaparral. The species requires some cobble-sized substrate
for egg laying and a water source persisting for at least 15 weeks for larval metamorphosis.
The main predators for FYLF are garter snakes, bullfrogs, and centrarchid fish which were
introduced into foothill streams. The FYLF occurs from elevations near sea level to 6,370 feet
and within 33 feet of a breeding water source (Zeiner 1990, CNDDB 2013, California Herps
2013).
During the May 24, 2013 biological surveys, no sign of FYLF were observed. Stream flows
within portions of the San Luis Obispo Creek may be adequate FYLF habitat fulfilling both the
15 weeks water presence and substrate requirements; FLYF could potentially occur. The
nearest recorded occurrence of FYLF is approximately three miles east of the project area,
therefore, there is a low/moderate chance the species would occur within the project location.
Western Pond Turtle
The western pond turtle is not a State or Federally listed species, but is a CDFW Species of
Special Concern. The western pond turtle is a semi-aquatic turtle, inhabiting ponds, marshes,
rivers, streams, and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. The species requires suitable
basking sites such as logs, rocks, and exposed banks and associated upland habitat consisting
of sandy banks or grassy open fields for reproduction. The species is omnivorous, consuming
aquatic wildlife and vegetation for dietary requirements. The western pond turtle is known to
hibernate underwater beneath a muddy bottom or buried on land, and reproduce from March to
August (Zeiner 1990).
The May 24, 2013 biological surveys found no sign of western pond turtle within the BSA,
however San Luis Obispo Creek possess seasonal high flowing water with aquatic vegetation,
suitable migration habitat for the species. The nearest documented occurrence is approximately
two miles from the project area, therefore there is a low/moderate potential western pond turtle
would occur within the project area.
Pallid Bat
The pallid bat is a CDFW Species of Special Concern, which inhabits a variety of low elevation
habitats with preference to open, dry and rocky locations for roosting and foraging. The species
roosts in moderate sized groups of 20 plus individuals within crevices, caves, trees or human
made structures that provide adequate temperature protection. (Zeiner 1990 and CNDDB
2013). The species consumes primarily insects with the occasional lizard or other smaller bats.
Pallid bats breeding season occurs between October through December and occasionally into
February (Hermanson, O’Shea 1983).
During the May 24, 2013 biological surveys found no sign of pallid bat within the BSA. No
potential day roosting bat habitat exists within the Marsh Street Bridge; however, suitable
foraging habitat is present within the BSA. The nearest documented occurrence is
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
approximately 400 feet downstream from the project area in a under-city tunnel between Marsh
Street and Chorro Street, and considering the project’s proximity to available roosting habitat,
the pallid bat has a low/moderate potential to occur within the project area.
Western Mastiff Bat
The western mastiff bat is a CDFW Species of Special Concern, which inhabit a variety of low to
mid elevation habitats with preference to open, rugged, rocky areas where suitable crevices are
available for day roosts. The species roosts in small colonies, usually of fewer than 100 within
cliff face crevices, high buildings, trees and tunnels that provide adequate vertical clearance.
Young are born April through September and species undergoes winter torpor December
through February (Zeiner 1990, CNDDB 2013, CDFG 1986). Western mastiff bats are
insectivores, feeding on small to large low-flying insects (Best, Kiser, Freeman 1996).
The May 24, 2013 biological surveys found no sign of western mastiff bat within the BSA. No
potential day roosting bat habitat exists within the Marsh Street Bridge; however suitable
foraging habitat is present within the BSA. The nearest documented occurrence is
approximately 0.70 mile from the project area dated in 1991 without certainty of exact location,
and considering the availability of possible foraging habitat, the western mastiff bat has a
low/moderate potential to occur.
Purple Martin
The purple martin is a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Purple martin nest in community
types such as woodlands consisting of very large trees including sycamores and valley oaks
and bridge sites. This species prefers to nest in tree cavities, occasionally old woodpecker nests
or within bridge cavities in proximity to a water source (Shuford 2008) if birdhouses are not
available. Purple martins are insectivores and nesting sites depend on insect availability.
Breeding occurs April through August.
During the biological reconnaissance survey and the Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment no
purple martins were observed. No potential purple martin habitat within the existing Marsh
Street Bridge exists, however suitable trees for nesting are present within the BSA; therefore,
the purple martin has a low/moderate potential to occur.
Migratory Birds
Native birds, protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and similar provisions under
CDFW code, currently nest or have the potential to nest within the BSA and the project impact
area. During the May 24, 2013 biological surveys, habitat was determined to be favorable to
canopy, cavity and structural nesting birds.
Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
Foothill yellow-legged frog
Direct Impacts
Although no FYLF was observed during the biological surveys, the species has a low/moderate
potential to occur within the project area. Replacement of the bridge over the natural bottomed
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
San Luis Obispo Creek with associated riparian forest is anticipated to disturb potential FYLF
breeding and dispersal habitat. However with the implementation of applicable CRLF PBO
measures and minimization (located in the threatened and endangered species section) and
measures BIO-9 through BIO-12, the project will reduce potential effects to FYLF populations.
Indirect Impacts
Construction may result in a potential increase in noise, light, and other human activities.
However, the project occurs within an existing urban community which is regularly exposed to
noise, light and other disruptive human activities. Implementation of measures BIO-9 through
BIO-12 will reduce the potential for negative indirect impacts to FYLF.
Western Pond Turtle
Although no western pond turtles were observed during the biological surveys, the species
could occur within the project area. Replacement of the bridge over the natural bottomed San
Luis Obispo Creek with associated riparian forests is anticipated to temporarily impact
approximately 0.14 acres of potential western pond turtle habitat (Figure 2.3.2-1 Project Impacts
to Sensitive Habitat). No permanent impacts are anticipated. However with the implementation
of measures BIO-7, BIO-8, BIO-10 through BIO-12, and CRLF PBO measure BIO-20 (located
in Section 2.3.5) and the project will not impact the viability of the overall western pond turtle
population.
Pallid Bat
The project will be temporarily removing 0.10 acres of riparian habitat. This is considered a
temporary impact on potentially suitable foraging habitat. No permanent impacts to foraging
habitats are anticipated (Figure 2.3.2-1 Project Impacts to Sensitive Habitat). During the May
24, 2013 reconnaissance surveys, no pallid bat or pallid bat sign were observed. Considering
the scale of the project and implementation of BIO-1, BIO-7 through BIO-10, and CRLF PBO
measure BIO-24 the project will not impact the viability of the overall pallid bat population.
Western Mastiff Bat
The project will be temporarily removing 0.10 acres of riparian habitat. This is considered a
temporary impact on potentially suitable foraging habitat. No permanent impacts to foraging
habitats are anticipated (Figure 2.3.2-1 Project Impacts to Sensitive Habitat). During the May
24, 2013 reconnaissance surveys, no western mastiff bat or western mastiff bat sign were
observed. Considering the scale of the project and implementation of BIO-1, BIO-7 through
BIO-10, and CRLF PBO measure BIO-24 the project will not impact the viability of the overall
western mastiff bat.
Purple Martin
The project will have a total of approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impact to purple martin
potential nesting and foraging habitat (Figure 2.3.2-1 Project Impacts to Sensitive Habitat).
Implementation of avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1, BIO-2, BIO-10, BIO-11, BIO-
13 and CRLF PBO measure BIO-22 will be employed and maintained during construction.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Migratory Birds
Native birds, protected under the MBTA and similar provisions under the CDFW code, currently
nest or have the potential to nest within the BSA and the project impact area. During the May
24, 2013 biological surveys, habitat was determined to be favorable to canopy, cavity and
structural nesting birds. Measures BIO-13 and BIO-14 shall be utilized to ensure protection of
migratory nesting birds.
No-Build Alternative
Under the No-Build Alternative, no impacts to special status animal species are anticipated
because no construction would occur.
Mitigation Measures
Foothill yellow-legged frog
Implementation of applicable CRLF PBO measures BIO-15 through BIO-17 (located in Section
2.3.5 below), and the following measures will reduce potential impacts to Foothill yellow-legged
frog.
Measure BIO-9: The City will not use herbicides to control invasive, exotic plants during the
project.
Measure BIO-10: Before any activities begin on the project, the project biologist will conduct a
training session for all construction personnel. At a minimum, the training will include a
description of all sensitive species, including steelhead; their habitat, Critical Habitats, the
project specific measures being implemented to conserve these species, and the boundaries
within which the project may be accomplished.
Measure BIO-11: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife
will be allowed to leave the construction area unharmed.
Measure BIO-12: To allow subterranean wildlife enough time to escape initial clearing and
grubbing activities, equipment used during initial clearing and grubbing shall be operated at
speeds no greater than 3 miles per hour.
Migratory Birds
Measure BIO-13: If vegetation removal is to take place during the breeding season (February
15th –September 15th), a pre-construction nesting bird survey must be conducted within 7 days
prior to vegetation removal by a qualified biologist with experience conducting
presence/absence surveys. Should a nesting sensitive bird species be observed, work will
immediately stop in the vicinity and additional coordination with USFWS will be initiated. Within
2 weeks of the nesting bird survey, all vegetation cleared by the biologist must be removed by
the contractor. A minimum 100 foot no-disturbance buffer will be established around any active
nest to limit the impacts of construction activities. The contractor must immediately stop work in
the nesting area until the appropriate buffer is established and is prohibited from conducting
work that could disturb the birds (as determined by the project biologist and in coordination with
wildlife agencies) in the buffer area until the project biologist determines the young have
fledged.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Measure BIO-14: If demolition of the bridge or work immediately adjacent to the bridge is
planned to occur during the nesting season, measures shall be taken to avoid impacts to
migratory swallows. To protect migratory swallows, unoccupied nests will be removed from the
existing bridge structure prior to the nesting season (February 15th – September 15th). During
the nesting season, the bridge structure must be maintained either through use of exclusion
devices and/or the active removal of partially constructed nests. After a nest is completed, it can
no longer be removed until nesting season is over. If active and occupied nests are discovered,
disruptive work in proximity to the active nest will stop.
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge has the potential to affect wildlife in the
project area during construction. No special status animal species were identified in the project
area, but suitable habitat exists so the presence of species discussed above cannot be ruled
out. Impacts to animal species could be potentially significant; however, those impacts would
be reduced to a less than significant level by including appropriate mitigation measures to
protect wildlife during construction.
2.3.5 Threatened and Endangered Species
This section discusses potential impacts and permit requirements associated with wildlife listed
or proposed for listing under the CESA or FESA. Species listed or proposed for listing as
threatened or endangered are discussed below.
Affected Environment
The following listed (threatened or endangered) species have the potential to exist within the
project area, or suitable habitat has been identified within the BSA.
California red-legged frog
CRLF is a federally threatened species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Populations
are known to exist in isolated localities in the Sierra Nevada, north Coast, and northern
Transverse Ranges from sea level to elevations of 5,200 feet (USFWS 2002). Historically,
CRLF occurred from Point Reyes National Seashore on the coast, and inland from near
Redding, Shasta County, south to northern Baja California, but the population has sustained a
70 percent reduction in its geographic range (Jennings et al. 1992) due to habitat loss,
overexploitation, introduction of exotic predators, and a variety of other factors (USFWS 1996).
Based on the USFWS March 17, 2010 revised Critical Habitat (75 FR 12816), effective on April
16, 2010; the entire BSA, including San Luis Obispo Creek, lies within CRLF Critical Habitat in
the San Luis Obispo County map unit 3 (USFWS 2010).
CRLF located in San Benito, Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara
Counties are protected under the Programmatic Biological Opinion (PBO) enacted May 4, 2011
with collaboration between Caltrans and the USFWS. To be eligible under the PBO for a may
affect, not likely to adversely affect determination, the following criteria must be met by the
project:
CRLF are not known to occur at the proposed project site and were not found during
surveys following the Guidelines for surveys and habitat assessments; however, the
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
potential may exist for individuals to occur at the proposed project site because no
barriers exist to preclude dispersal of CRLF from nearby suitable habitat.
Any effects to critical habitat must be discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial
to the CRLF.
The measures to avoid adverse effects to the CRLF and its critical habitat, provided
herein, must be implemented; these measures may be modified on a project-specific
basis to achieve avoidance of adverse effects upon the agreement of Caltrans and the
USFWS.
This bridge replacement project meets the above specified criteria by incorporating measures to
reduce or avoid adverse effects to CRLF and its critical habitat; effects to critical habitat are
insignificant; and, CRLF are not known to occur at the project site. Therefore, this project meets
the requisite conditions to receive coverage under the PBO (USFWS 2011).
Review of available literature and data sources of the species occurrences indicate that CRLF
inhabit the San Luis Obispo Creek. This species is known to occur in the San Luis Obispo
Creek and its tributaries, upstream and downstream of the project area. Within the project area,
San Luis Obispo Creek supports a transient migration corridor and foraging habitat for CRLF.
During the May 24, 2013 reconnaissance biological surveys, no CRLF were observed in the
San Luis Obispo Creek or in the adjacent riparian vegetation. USFWS determined that protocol
surveys were not necessary as CRFL have been sighted within a mile of the project area in the
last five years and they are assumed present. The creek lacks slow moving water or backwaters
with dense emergent vegetation; therefore, no suitable breeding habitat exists. The San Luis
Obispo Creek has been documented to be inhabited by introduced CRLF predatory species
such as: speckled dace (Rhinichthys osculates) and bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) (Alley 2008).
However, since the creek carries water most of the year, it may serve as a foraging habitat,
summer habitat or as a dispersal corridor for CRLF.
South-Central California Coast Steelhead
South-central California coast steelhead was listed as threatened by NMFS on August 18, 1997
(62 FR 43937) (NMFS 1997) and is a California State species of special concern. The South-
central California coast steelhead distinct population segment (DPS) includes populations from
the Pajaro River south to, but not including, the Santa Maria River. San Luis Obispo Creek is
designated as Critical Habitat for steelhead by NMFS (70 FR 52574 September 2, 2005),
therefore Critical Habitat falls within the study area.
Review of available literature and occurrence data indicate that steelhead occur within the San
Luis Obispo Creek, both upstream (approximately 1.4 miles) and downstream (approximately
2.5 miles) of the project area (CNDDB 2013). The most recent occurrence documented by
CDFW in 2013, observed an adult steelhead approximately 1.4 miles upstream of the project
site (Otte 2014). In 2008, a survey concluded San Luis Obispo Creek to support a population of
steelhead, with the highest quality habitat and highest densities located in the lower San Luis
Obispo Creek (Becker 2010). Within the project area, San Luis Obispo Creek supports a
migration corridor for adult steelhead and emigrating juveniles.
Based on Critical Habitat maps, approximately 0.11 acres of steelhead Critical Habitat is
present within the action area (NMFS 2005). The Critical Habitat includes the creek channel
within designated reaches, and the lateral extent as defined by the ordinary high water mark,
and shaded riverine aquatic cover. With confirmed Critical Habitat and recent occurrences,
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
South-central California coast steelhead is inferred present within the San Luis Obispo Creek.
During the May 24, 2013 and July 26, 2014 biological surveys of the project area, no South-
central California coast steelhead was observed.
Least Bell’s Vireo
The least Bell’s vireo is a federal and state endangered listed species, and a CDFW Species of
Special Concern. Least Bell’s vireo nests in community types such as southern willow scrub,
mule fat scrub, sycamore alluvial woodland, coastal live oak riparian forests, arroyo willow
riparian forest, and cottonwood bottomland forests. The species prefers to nest in shrubby,
successional habitat without tall canopies. Breeding occurs between late March and mid-
August. The decline of the species is due to habitat loss and degradation along with brood
parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds (Padre Associates 2013).
A formal Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment was conducted by Padre Associates biologist Thea
Benson on May 3, 2013 to assess the site’s suitability for least Bell’s vireo within the BSA. The
research and survey methodologies implemented were conducted in accordance with USFWS
guidance. Based on desktop review and field surveys, the project area is structurally unsuitable
for least Bell’s vireo nesting. No least Bell’s vireo or calls were observed during the
reconnaissance surveys and Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment. The project site contains a
moderate amount of native and non-native species adapted to an edge environment that could
out compete the species. No Critical Habitat for least Bell’s vireo is found within the project area.
However riparian habitat onsite may provide suitable foraging habitat for migrating least Bell’s
vireo; therefore, the least Bell’s vireo has a low/moderate potential of occurrence within the
project area.
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher
The southwestern willow flycatcher is a federal and state endangered listed species.
Southwestern willow flycatchers nest in large blocks of dense riparian forests interspersed with
small openings of open water, or shorter/sparser vegetation and are associated with slow-
moving or still surface water and/or saturated soils. Breeding occurs between May 1 and August
31. The decline of the species is due to habitat destruction, fragmentation, modification of
riparian breeding habitat, overgrazing by livestock, damming, dredging, urban development,
water diversion and brood parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds (Padre Associates 2013).
A formal Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment was conducted by Padre Associates biologist Thea
Benson on May 3, 2013 to assess the site’s suitability for southwestern willow flycatcher within
the BSA. The research and survey methodologies implemented were conducted in accordance
with USFWS guidance. Based on desktop review and field surveys, the project area is
structurally unsuitable for southwestern willow flycatcher nesting. No southwestern willow
flycatcher or calls were observed during the reconnaissance surveys and Sensitive Bird Habitat
Assessment. The project site contains a moderate amount of native and non-native species
adapted to an edge environment that could out compete the species. No Critical Habitat for
southwestern willow flycatcher is found within the project area. However riparian habitat onsite
may provide suitable foraging habitat for migrating southwestern willow flycatcher; therefore, the
southwestern willow flycatcher has a low/moderate potential of occurrence within the project
area.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Western Yellow Billed Cuckoo
The western yellow-billed cuckoo is a federal threatened and state endangered listed species.
Yellow-billed cuckoo nest in large blocks of riparian habitats particularly riparian woodlands with
cottonwoods and willows. Suitable riparian habitat consists of multi-layered riparian vegetation
with riparian canopy trees and at least one layer of understory. Breeding occurs between late
June and late July. The decline of the species is due to loss of riparian habitat from inundations
by reservoirs, flood control activities, conversion to agriculture, urban development, and low
colonization rates (Padre Associates 2013).
A formal Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment was conducted by Padre Associates biologist Thea
Benson on May 3, 2013 to assess the site’s suitability for western yellow billed cuckoo within the
BSA. The research and survey methodologies implemented were conducted in accordance with
USFWS guidance. Based on desktop review and field surveys, the project area is structurally
unsuitable for western yellow billed cuckoo nesting. No western yellow billed cuckoo or calls
were observed during the reconnaissance surveys and Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment. The
project site contains a moderate amount of native and non-native species adapted to an edge
environment that could out compete with the species. No Critical Habitat for western yellow
billed cuckoo is found within the project area. No western yellow-billed cuckoo or calls were
observed during the surveys and Sensitive Bird Habitat Assessment. However riparian habitat
onsite may provide suitable foraging habitat for migrating western yellow billed cuckoo;
therefore, the western yellow billed cuckoo has a low/moderate potential of occurrence within
the project area.
Environmental Consequences
California red-legged frog
A Biological Assessment was prepared which documented the anticipated impacts to CRLF.
This document also included the determination that the proposed project may affect, but is not
likely to adversely affect CRLF and CRLF Critical Habitat.
Although no CRLF individuals were observed during the biological surveys, the species is
inferred to occur within the project area due to recent known occurrences. Potential construction
related direct effects to CRLF include accidental spills of hazardous chemicals and materials
into waters. Indirect effects include impacts associated with the removal of riparian habitat.
Replacement of the bridge over the natural bottomed San Luis Obispo Creek with associated
riparian forest is anticipated to disturb potential CRLF breeding and dispersal habitat.
Direct Impacts
Construction related activities could potentially impair water quality should hazardous chemicals
(e.g. fuels and petroleum-based lubricants) or other construction materials enter the San Luis
Obispo Creek. Construction-related chemical spills could potentially affect aquatic resources by
causing physiological stress, reducing biodiversity, altering primary and secondary production,
and causing direct mortality. However, implementation of measures described below would
minimize and avoid potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals.
The primary constituent elements (PCE’s) applicable for CRLF within the action area include
low-salinity and low-gradient freshwater (San Luis Obispo Creek), upland habitat providing
foraging and sheltering habitat (riparian habitat) with boulders, rocks and organic debris, and
dispersal habitat (riparian habitat).
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
The project will have less than 0.01 acres of permanent impact to riparian habitat.
Approximately 0.05 acres of Critical Habitat waters and approximately 0.10 acres of riparian
habitat will be temporarily affected (see Figure 2.3.5-1 and Table 2.3.5-1).
Table 2.3.5-1: Project Effects to CRLF Critical Habitat
CRLF Critical Habitat Permanent Impacts
(acres
Temporary
Impacts (acres)
Effects to San Luis Obispo Creek N/A 0.05
Effects to Valley Foothill Riparian <0.01 0.10
Source: Marsh Street Bridge Biological Assessment, 2014
The project may affect, but not likely to adversely affect CRLF; however with the implementation
of measures BIO-1 through BIO-7 and measures BIO-15 through BIO-30 documented in the
PBO the project will minimize potential effects to CRLF. In addition, the project may affect, but is
not likely to adversely affect CRLF Critical Habitat.
Indirect Impacts
Riparian vegetation is a PCE to CRLF. Riparian vegetation will be affected during the bridge
replacement activities, including demolition of the existing bridge, construction of the requisite
temporary access routes and installation of rock slope protection. The proposed project would
require the temporary removal of approximately 0.10 acres of riparian vegetation within the
project area and less than 0.01 acres require the permanent removal of riparian habitat (see
Figure 2.3.5-1).
With the implementation of measures included below, potential effects to CRLF would be
minimized to the greatest extent practicable and compensatory mitigation is not proposed.
However, compensatory mitigation provided for Waters of the U.S. and State will compensate
for construction-related removal of riparian trees at a 3:1 ratio within the BSA, by replanting
biologist approved local native species. This mitigation will also serve to minimize project effects
to CRLF. Additional plantings of native riparian vegetation will accompany the onsite mitigation
and included in the habitat restoration plan.
Construction may result in a potential increase in noise, light, and human disturbances.
Currently no lighting occurs on the bridge; however, there is artificial lighting around the bridge
due to the urbanization of the area. Additional bridge lighting is planned. Due to the project only
replacing an existing bridge, no change in noise is anticipated. Human disturbance is and will be
present due to the location of the project in the City of San Luis Obispo.
South-Central California Coast Steelhead
A Biological Assessment was prepared which documented the anticipated impacts to steelhead.
This document also included the determination that the proposed project may affect, but is not
likely to adversely affect steelhead and steelhead Critical Habitat.
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 4/6/2015; Created By: timcV:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F2.3.5-1_Project_Effects_to_CRLF_Habitats.mxdMarsh Street0 25 50 75 100FeetI
Project Area
Proposed ESA Fence
CRLF Critical Habitat (0.47 acres)
Project Effects to CRLF Critical Habitat
San Luis Obispo Creek, Temporary (0.05 acres)
Riparian Habitat, Permanent (<0.01 acres)
Riparian Habitat,Temporary (0.10 acres)
FIGURE 2.3.5-1Project Effects to CRLF Critical Habitat
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California
41
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Although no steelhead individuals were observed during the biological surveys, the species is
inferred to occur within the project area due to recent known occurrences. Potential construction
related direct effects to steelhead include the temporary increase in sedimentation and turbidity;
the temporary increase in underwater noise and vibrations from on land and near water pile
driving; and risks associated with accidental spills of hazardous chemicals and materials into
waters. Indirect effects include effects associated with the removal of riparian habitat and
associated shaded riverine aquatic cover. Based on the proposed seasonality constraints for in-
water work, it is unlikely that there will be direct effects to steelhead individuals.
Direct Impacts
Increased sedimentation and turbidity of the San Luis Obispo Creek resulting from project
construction disturbance to soils and vegetation would be temporary and limited to a small
portion of the creek during construction activities. Construction related activities could also
potentially impair water quality should hazardous chemicals (e.g. fuels and petroleum-based
lubricants) or other construction materials enter the San Luis Obispo Creek. Implementation of
the measures provided in Section 2.3 will further minimize turbidity effects and potential for
exposure to hazardous chemicals to steelhead. However, project activities are anticipated to
occur in June through November outside the adult (January-March) and juvenile (March-May)
migrations. The likelihood of steelhead to occur within the project is low.
Adult steelhead are known to use the project area as a migration corridor and are anticipated to
migrate upstream through the San Luis Obispo Creek from December through April (The
Habitat Restoration Group 1997). Juvenile steelhead are also known to use the project area as
a migration corridor between March-May. Therefore, the project has been designed to utilize
vibratory methods to the greatest extent practicable and will restrict all pile driving effects to
what is necessary during pile installation. Considering the migration of salmonids within San
Luis Obispo Creek primarily occurs from December through April (adults) and March-May
(juveniles) during the night, all pile driving within and near the creek bank would adhere to the
designated June 1 – November 1 work window, outside adult and juvenile migrations and would
occur during the day light hours. Use of vibratory construction methods, adherence to the
designated June 1 - November 1 work window, and implementation of measures BIO-31
through BIO-37; effects to steelhead and their migrations would be minimized to the greatest
extent practicable.
Construction of the bridge will require a temporary access road and temporary water diversions,
resulting in an approximate 0.05 acre temporary affect to steelhead Critical Habitat including
PCE’s (0.05 acre of San Luis Obispo Creek and less than 0.01 acres of shaded riverine aquatic
cover). Less than 0.01 acres of permanent effect to shaded riverine aquatic cover is anticipated
due to the installation of rock slope protection (see Figure 2.3.5-2 and Table 2.3.5-2).
Temporary water diversions would be necessary for bridge construction demolition. However,
the temporary diversion of water will occur during the dry season (June 1-November 1) and will
be constructed to provide unobstructed flow consistent with NMFS fish passage. The diversion
will allow bridge demolition and construction to occur in dry areas separate from the water.
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 4/6/2015; Created By: timcV:\1929_Marsh_Street\EIR\F2.3.5-2_Project_Effects_to_Steelhead_Habitats.mxdMarsh Street0 25 50 75 100FeetI
Project Area
Proposed ESA Fence
Steelhead Critical Habitat (0.11 acres)
Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat
San Luis Obispo Creek-Temporary (0.05 acres)
Shaded Rivering Aquatic Cover, Permanent(<0.01 acres)
Shaded Rivering Aquatic Cover, Temporary (<0.01 acres)
FIGURE 2.3.5-2Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Table 2.3.5-1: Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat
Steelhead Critical Habitat Permanent Impacts
(acres
Temporary
Impacts (acres)
Effects to San Luis Obispo Creek N/A 0.05
Effects to Shaded Riverine Aquatic Cover <0.01 <0.01
Source: Marsh Street Bridge Biological Assessment, 2014
The project may affect, but not likely to adversely affect steelhead; however with the
implementation of measures BIO-7, BIO-8 and measures BIO-31 through BIO-37 will minimize
potential effects to steelhead. In addition, the project may affect, but is not likely to adversely
affect steelhead Critical Habitat.
Indirect Impacts
Indirect effects include effects associated with the removal of riparian habitat and associated
shaded riverine aquatic cover.
Riparian vegetation is a critical element to salmonid habitat as it provides and maintains the
necessary cover, temperature conditions and food resources required by adult and juvenile
steelhead. The proposed project would require the temporary and permanent removal of less
than 0.01 acres of shaded riverine aquatic cover within the project area (Figure 11 Project
Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat).
With the implementation of measures BIO-31 through BIO-37, potential effects to steelhead
shaded riverine aquatic habitat would be minimized to the greatest extent practicable and
compensatory mitigation is not proposed. However, compensatory mitigation provided for
waters of the U.S. and State will compensate for construction-related removal of riparian
vegetation at a 3:1 ratio, by replanting temporary access areas with local native species with the
approval by the City’s arborist/landscape architect and project biologist. This mitigation will also
serve to minimize project effects to steelhead shaded riverine aquatic cover.
Least Bell’s Vireo
The project will have a total of approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impact to least Bell’s vireo
potential foraging habitat (see Figure 2.3.1-1). On May 28, 2013 the Habitat Assessment
prepared for the project was sent to the USFWS. USFWS concurred with a no effect
determination on August 6, 2013 and the concurrence letter is included under Appendix C.
Implementation of measures BIO-1, BIO-2, BIO-22, and BIO-31 through BIO-32 will be
employed and maintained during construction.
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher
The project will have a total of approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impact to southwestern
willow flycatcher potential foraging habitat (see Figure 2.3.1-1). On May 28, 2013 the Habitat
Assessment prepared for the project was sent to the USFWS. USFWS concurred with a no
effect determination on August 6, 2013 and the concurrence letter is included under Appendix
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
C. Implementation of measures BIO-1, BIO-2, BIO-22, and BIO-31 through BIO-32 will be
employed and maintained during construction.
Western Yellow Billed Cuckoo
The project will have a total of approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impact to western yellow
billed cuckoo potential foraging habitat (see Figure 2.3.1-1). On May 28, 2013 the Habitat
Assessment prepared for the project was sent to the USFWS. USFWS concurred with a no
effect determination on August 6, 2013 and the concurrence letter is included under Appendix
C. Implementation of measures BIO-1, BIO-2, BIO-31, and BIO-32 through BIO-24 will be
employed and maintained during construction.
Mitigation Measures
California Red-Legged Frog
To ensure compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, Caltrans has initiated
federal consultation with the USFWS. The Biological Assessment was submitted to USFWS
with the recommendation that the project “May Effect but is Not Likely to Affect” CRLF with the
inclusion of measures documented in the PBO and provided in the Assessment. Caltrans will
consult with USFWS to obtain their concurrence of this determination prior to approval of the
Final Environmental Document. A complete record of this consultation to date is provided in
Appendix C.
Measures BIO-15 through BIO-30 will ensure project impacts to CRLF are avoided and/or
minimized to the greatest extent feasible. Completion of Section 7 Consultation with USFWS
will confirm the adequacy of these measures and any additional measures deemed necessary
will be added to the Final EIR.
Measure BIO-15: A biologist with experience in the identification of all life stages of the CRLF,
and its Critical Habitat (75 FR 12816), will survey the project site no more than 48 hours before
the onset of work activities. If any life stage of the CRLF is detected the USFWS will be notified
prior to the start of construction. If Caltrans and the USFWS determine that adverse effects to
the CRLF or its Critical Habitat cannot be avoided, the proposed project will not commence until
Caltrans completes the appropriate level of consultation with the USFWS.
Measure BIO-16: Work activities will take place during the dry season, between April 1 and
November 1, when water levels are typically at their lowest, and CRLF are likely to be more
detectable. Should activities need to be conducted outside of this period, Caltrans may conduct
or authorize such activities after obtaining the USFWS written approval.
Measure BIO-17: Before work begins on any proposed project, a biologist with experience in
the ecology of the CRLF, as well as the identification of all its life stages, will conduct a training
session for all construction personnel, which will include a description of the CRLF, its Critical
Habitat, and specific measures that are being implemented to avoid adverse effects to the
subspecies during the proposed project.
Measure BIO-18: If any life stage of the CRLF is detected in the project area during
construction, work will cease immediately and the resident engineer, authorized biologist, or
biological monitor will notify the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office via telephone or electronic mail.
If Caltrans and the USFWS determine that adverse effects to California red-legged frogs cannot
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
be avoided, construction activities will remain suspended until Caltrans and the USFWS
complete the appropriate level of consultation.
Measure BIO-19: During project activities, all trash that may attract predators will be properly
contained, removed from the work site, and disposed of regularly. Following construction, all
trash and construction debris will be removed from work areas.
Measure BIO-20: Prior to the onset of work, the City will ensure that a plan is in place for
prompt and effective response to any accidental spills. All workers will be informed of the
importance of preventing spills and of the appropriate measures to implement should a spill
occur (See BIO-6).
Measure BIO-21: All refueling, maintenance; and staging of equipment and vehicles will
occur at least 60 feet from aquatic or riparian habitat and not in a location from where a spill
would drain directly toward aquatic habitat. The monitor will ensure contamination of aquatic or
riparian habitat does not occur during such operations implanting the spill response plan
described in BIO-20.
Measure BIO-22: Plants used in re-vegetation will consist of native riparian, wetland, and
upland vegetation suitable for the area. Locally collected plant material will be used to the extent
practicable. Invasive, exotic plants will be controlled to the maximum extent practicable. This
measure will be implemented in all areas disturbed by activities associated with the project,
unless Caltrans and the USFWS determine that it is not feasible or practical.
Measure BIO-23: Habitat contours will be returned to their original configuration at the end of
the project activities. This measure will be implemented in all areas disturbed by activities
associated with the project, unless the USFWS and Caltrans determine that it is not feasible or
that modification of original contours would benefit the CRLF.
Measure BIO-24: The number of access routes, size of staging areas, and the total area of
the activity will be limited to the minimum necessary to achieve the project goals. ESA fencing
will be delineated to confine access routes and construction areas to the minimum area
necessary to complete construction, and minimize the impact to habitat for the CRLF; this
goal includes locating access routes and construction areas outside of aquatic habitat and
riparian areas to the maximum extent practicable.
Measure BIO-25: To control sedimentation during and after project implementation, Caltrans
will implement BMPs outlined in any authorizations or permits, issued under the authorities of
the Clean Water Act that it receives for the specific project. If BMP’s are ineffective, Caltrans
will attempt to remedy the situation immediately, in coordination with the USFWS.
Measure BIO-26: If a work site is to be temporarily dewatered by pumping, the intake will be
screened with wire mesh not larger than 0.2 inch to prevent any CRLF not initially detected from
entering the pump system. If CRLF are detected during, and adverse effects to CRLF cannot be
avoided, construction activities will remain suspended until Caltrans and USFWS complete the
appropriate level of consultation.
Measure BIO-27: Upon completion of construction activities, any diversions or barriers to flow
will be removed in a manner that would allow flow to resume with the least disturbance to the
substrate. Alteration of the stream bed will be minimized to the maximum extent possible; any
imported material will be removed from the stream bed upon completion of the project.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Measure BIO-28: Unless approved by the USFWS, water will not be impounded in a manner
that may attract CRLF.
Measure BIO-29: A qualified biologist will permanently remove any individuals of non-native
species, such as bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana), crayfish (Pacifasticus leniusculus;
Procambarus clarkia), and centrarchid fishes from the project area, to the maximum extent
possible. The biologist will be responsible for ensuring his or her activities are in compliance
with the California Fish and Game Code.
Measure BIO-30: To ensure that diseases are not conveyed between work sites by the
USFWS- approved biologist, the fieldwork code of practice developed by the Declining
Amphibian Populations Task Force will be followed at all times.
Steelhead
The proposed project cannot avoid some construction effects to steelhead; as a result the City
will implement preventive actions to avoid and minimize potential adverse construction effects
on aquatic and riparian resources. Measures BIO-7 and BIO-8 and the following will be
implemented:
Measure BIO-31: The project biologist will be onsite to monitor installation of any stream
diversion dewatering process.
Measure BIO-32: Filter fabric must line the channel prior to the placement of diversion materials
into the channel. Substrate in channel, including gravel and rocks, that is removed during
project construction will be set aside, rinsed, and then returned to the channel following
completion of in-channel construction.
Measure BIO-33: All in-channel construction including creek diversions, creek crossings, or any
work in the channel bed must occur within the June 1 – November 1 work window.
Measure BIO-34: Project activities that may affect the flow of the creek through placement of
fill, bridge construction, or diversion of the channel must comply with the 2001 NMFS Guidelines
for Salmonid Passage at Stream Crossing, where applicable. The guidelines include but are not
limited to:
A minimum water depth (12 inch for adults and 6 inch for juveniles) at the low fish
passage;
A maximum hydraulic drop of 12 inch for adults and 6 inch for juveniles;
Avoidance of abrupt changes in water surface and velocities; and
Structures must be aligned with the stream, with no abrupt changes in flow direction
upstream or downstream of the crossing.
Measure BIO-35: In-channel construction will not be conducted at night to afford fish quiet
migratory hours.
Measure BIO-36: Pile driving activities must coincide with the least likely occurrence of
upstream migrating adults or downstream juvenile migration (June 1-November 1). The smallest
pile driver and minimum force necessary will be used to complete work within diverted areas.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Measure BIO-37: All water pumping or withdrawal from the creek must comply with 1997 NMFS
Fish Screening Criteria for Anadromous Salmonids, where applicable, to avoid entrainment of
fish. The criteria include but are not limited to the following:
Screen design must provide for uniform flow distribution over the surface of the screen;
Screen material openings must not exceed 3/32 inches for fry (fish capable of feeding
themselves) sized salmonids and must not exceed 1/4 inch for fingerling sized
salmonids;
Where physically practical, the screen must be constructed at the dewatering system
entrance. The screen face should be generally parallel to river flow and aligned with the
adjacent bankline; and
The design approach velocity must not exceed 0.33 feet per second for fry sized
salmonids or 0.8 feet per second for fingerling sized salmonids.
Least Bell’s Vireo, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher and Western Yellow Billed Cuckoo
In addition to Measures BIO-1, BIO-2 and BIO-22, the following measures will avoid or minimize
impacts to threatened and endangered birds.
Measure BIO-38: Before any activities begin on the project, the project biologist will conduct a
training session for all construction personnel. At a minimum, the training will include a
description of all sensitive species, including steelhead; their habitat, Critical Habitats, the
project specific measures being implemented to conserve these species, and the boundaries
within which the project may be accomplished.
Measure BIO-39: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife
will be allowed to leave the construction area unharmed.
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge has the potential to affect federal and
state listed threatened CRLF and South-central coast steelhead and their Critical Habitats.
Through coordination with USFWS and Caltrans as the NEPA lead agency, Section 7
consultation has been initiated. This consultation is expected to result in a “not likely to
adversely affect” determination for both species and their associated Critical Habitats through
the incorporation of appropriate mitigation measures identified in the Biological Assessment.
Project impacts to the federal and state threatened CRLF and South-central coast steelhead
could be potentially significant; however, those impacts would be reduced to a less than
significant level by including appropriate mitigation measures to protect those species and their
habitat during and after construction.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
2.4 Cultural Resources
“Cultural resources” as used in this document refers to all “built environment” resources
(structures, bridges, railroads, water conveyance systems, etc.), culturally important resources,
and archaeological resources (both prehistoric and historic), regardless of significance.
Historical resources are considered under the CEQA, as well as CA PRC Section 5024.1, which
established the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR). PRC Section 5024
requires state agencies to identify and protect state-owned resources that meet National
Register of Historic Places listing criteria.
Affected Environment
The project study area was established and archival research and field investigations were
undertaken in 2013. The field investigations of architectural and archaeological resources
within the proposed Marsh Street Bridge project study area were conducted on May 21 and July
25, 2013. A Historic Property Survey Report, Historical Resources Evaluation Report, and
Archaeological Survey Report were prepared in October 2014. A Finding of Effects Report
prepared in January 2015 documents a finding of Adverse Effect for the undertaking due to the
demolition of the historic Marsh Street Bridge. Coordination with Caltrans and the State Historic
Preservation Officer (SHPO) is ongoing in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Resources Preservation Act and with the California PRC Section 5024. Concurrence from
SHPO will be obtained prior to approval of the Final EIR.
The archival research effort was directed toward identifying potential and previously recorded
cultural resources within a one-quarter-mile radius of the project study limits and gathering
pertinent data regarding prehistoric, ethnographic and historic land use and development of the
project area. Several repositories were consulted during the effort including local historical
societies and the California State Library. Records at the Central Coast Information Center of
the California Historical Resources Information System were searched for information related to
the project site. The Native American Heritage Commission and tribes were contacted by letter
and telephone regarding ethnographic information, sacred sites and concerns. Refer to the
Historic Property Survey Report for a complete description of archival research methods,
including documents consulted and individual and organizations contacted.
The Historic Property Survey Report identified two built environment features within the Area of
Potential Effect (APE) that require evaluation and/or impact analysis. The first is the building
located a 1043 Marsh Street that houses the Davita Dialysis Center. This building was
determined to be not eligible for inclusion in the California Register of Historic Places because it
is not significant under any of the four established criteria for historic properties (context,
association, architecturally unique, or a principal source of historic information). The second
property is the Marsh Street Bridge which was previously determined eligible for the National
Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historic Places under Criterion C as an
important early example of a concrete-girder bridge and as the work of a master bridge designer
John B Leonard. This determination was made in 1986.
The survey and resource identification efforts did not identify any archaeological resources in
the project area. If cultural materials are discovered during construction, all earth-moving
activities within and around the immediate discovery area will be diverted until a qualified
archaeologist can assess the nature and significance of the find.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
If human remains are discovered, State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 states that
further disturbances and activities shall cease in any area or nearby area suspected to overlie
remains, and the County Coroner contacted. Pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98, if the remains
are thought to be Native American, the coroner will notify the Native American Heritage
Commission who will then notify the Most Likely Descendent. The Resident Engineer will
temporarily cover the remains using materials such as a piece of cloth or plywood and notify a
Caltrans archaeologist and/or District Native American Coordinator of the find. Further
provisions of PRC 5097.98 are to be followed as applicable.
Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
As discussed in Section 1.5 of the EIR, multiple alternatives were considered during the early
planning stages of this project. One of these alternatives was a rehabilitation/retrofit of the
bridge and would have avoided the need for complete replacement, but this alternative was
determined not feasible from an engineering standpoint. As such, the only feasible and prudent
alternative required demolition and full replacement of the historic Marsh Street Bridge.
Phil Dunsmore, the City’s Cultural Heritage Committee Liason, and Mike McGuire, City Civil
Engineer, presented the undertaking at a regularly scheduled public Cultural Heritage
Commission (CHC) meeting on September 24, 2012. They recommended that the CHC concur
on the proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge. The CHC members discussed the
design aspects of the new bridge in general and expressed a desire for the new bridge to reflect
the historical context of the original bridge and to keep the scale intact. Ultimately the CHC
granted concurrence for the replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge (see Appendix D for a
record of this coordination).
Based on the Finding of Adverse Effect Report prepared in June of 2014 by Galvin Preservation
and Associates, the demolition of the historic Marsh Street Bridge and replacement with a new
modern bridge would constitute an adverse effect to the historic bridge. The adverse effect is
applicable as the project would cause “physical destruction of, or damage to all or part of the
historic property.” The City of San Luis Obispo, as the CEQA lead agency has determined that
these adverse effects cannot be avoided and has considered the views of interested parties.
No-Build Alternative
Under the No-Build Alternative, no construction activities would occur and the Marsh Street
Bridge would not be demolished. However, the historic bridge would be expected to continue to
deteriorate and would be expected to either fail, or require closure due to safety concern in the
next 10-20 years. In such an instance, the continued deterioration would also constitute an
adverse effect to the historic structure due to a loss of historic integrity. Furthermore, this
alternative does not address the proposed project’s purpose and need of providing a safe and
reliable transportation network in downtown San Luis Obispo.
Mitigation Measures
As part of the coordination efforts with the SHPO consistent with Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act and California PRC Section 5024, the City has prepared a
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Caltrans, the SHPO, and the City of San Luis
Obispo regarding the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project. This MOA was executed by
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
the City on January 30, 2017 and is included under Appendix D. The MOA outlines measures
that the City has agreed to mitigate the loss of the historic Marsh Street Bridge. The following
measures will be incorporated into the final design for the project and will reduce the impacts
caused by demolition of the historic structure.
Measure CUL-1: Prior to the start of any work that could adversely affect any characteristics
that qualify the Marsh Street Bridge (Bridge No. 49C-0298) as a historic property, the City shall
ensure that the recordation measures specified below are completed.
1. The City shall take large-format (4” x 5” or larger negative size) photographs showing the
Bridge #49C-0298 in context, as well as details of its historic design and engineering
features. Photographs shall be processed for archival permanence in accordance with
the Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) photographic specifications. Views of
Bridge #49C-0298 shall include:
a. Contextual views showing Bridge No. 49C-0298;
b. Elevation views;
c. Views of the bridge’s approaches and abutments;
d. Detail views of significant engineering and design elements.
2. The City shall make a reasonable and good faith effort to locate historic construction
drawings for Bridge #49C-0298. If these drawings are located, the City shall
photographically reproduce plans, elevations, and selected details from these drawings
in accordance with HAER photographic specifications. If they are legible in this format,
reduced size (8-1/2” x 11”) copies of construction drawings may be included as pages of
the report cited in Subsection 3 of this stipulation, rather than photographed and
included as photographic documentation. The City shall promptly notify Caltrans if
historic construction drawings for Bridge #49C-0298 cannot be located. In that event, the
requirements of this paragraph shall not apply.
3. The City shall complete a written historical and descriptive data report for Bridge #49C-
0298. This report will provide a physical description of the bridge, discuss its
construction and its significance under applicable NRHP criteria, and address the
historical context for its construction following the format and instructions in the National
Park Service (NPS) HAER Guidelines for Preparing Written Historical and Descriptive
Data.
4. Upon review and approval by Caltrans Professionally Qualified Staff (PQS) in the
appropriate discipline, the City shall submit copies of the documentation prescribed in
Subsection 1, 2, and 3 of this stipulation to the Caltrans Transportation Library and
History Center in Sacramento and the Office of Historic Preservation in Sacramento. The
City shall also offer copies of the documentation prescribed in Subsections 1, 2, and 3 of
this stipulation to the San Luis Obispo County Library and the History Center of San Luis
Obispo County.
Measure CUL-2: The City shall install a new informative permanent metal plaque at one end of
the bridge in a publicly accessible location that provides a brief history of the original bridge, its
significance, the reasons for its replacement, and an explanation of how the new bridge differs
from the original bridge. Caltrans PQS and the SHPO shall have 30 days to review proposed
plaque information before they are produced and installed.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Measure CUL-3: The City shall develop and host a website in perpetuity dedicated to the
Marsh Street Bridge and related topics within six (6) months of completing construction. The
website shall provide content on the history and significance of the bridge, the career of
significant bridge designer John B. Leonard, and the development of the concrete girder bridge
typology. It shall also provide the HAER documentation stipulated in Measure CUL-1 in digital
format, as well as information on the bridge replacement project. The link for the website shall
be provided to the History Center of San Luis Obispo County and the San Luis Obispo County
Library, so each can add it to their own websites. Once the website is complete, the City shall
publicize it on its website and announce it in the local newspaper.
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge will result in a significant and unavoidable
impact to the historic bridge as a Cultural Resource. The City of San Luis Obispo has evaluated
other alternatives and found that they would either not be feasible and/or prudent, or would also
result in an adverse effect and significant impact to the historic structure. As such, the City has
coordinated with Caltrans and the SHPO to identify measures that would reduce the severity of
these significant impacts; however, these impacts are not able to be mitigated to a less than
significant level.
2.5 Geology and Soils
Affected Environment
The proposed project lies in the San Luis Range, in the Coast Ranges’ Physiographic Province
of California. The San Luis Range sits between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the
Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley to the east. The Coast Ranges trend northwesterly along the
California coast for about 600 miles between Santa Maria and the Oregon border.
Based on published geologic literature, the project site is mostly underlain by Holocene (less
than 11,000 years before present) alluvial deposits. These alluvial deposits typically consist of
sands, gravels, silts, and clays. In addition to the Holocene alluvium, Terrace Deposits and
Melange Franciscan Assemblage deposits may be present to the west approaching the Irish
Hills.
The project sits relatively close to the Los Osos fault zone, as defined in the Safety Element of
the General Plan. This fault zone is separated into four segments: the Estero Bay segment, Irish
Hills segment, Lopez Reservoir segment, and Newsom Ridge segment. Of the four segments,
both the Estero Bay segment and the Irish Hills segment are considered active by state
standards. The California Geological Survey and the State Geologist have established a Special
Studies Zone (Alquist-Priolo Act, as amended) along the portion of the Irish Hills segment
immediately west of San Luis Obispo city limits.
Data from the communities of Los Osos and Baywood Park, along the Irish Hills segment of this
fault, indicate that strands of the Los Osos fault in these communities may be active and that
Special Studies Zones may also be appropriate in these areas. The project site is near the
southeasterly end of the Irish Hills segment near where the Los Osos fault zone transitions from
active to inactive by state standards (established for fault rupture hazards under the Alquist-
Priolo Act, as amended).
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
The project lies within a “low liquefaction potential” area. Based on the nearly level topography
in the immediate and surrounding area, the potential for a landslide in or near the project area is
minimal. On moderately to steeply sloping areas within the Irish Hills southwest of the project
area, the landslide risk is moderate.
Environmental Consequences
There is some varying potential in the project location for rupture of known faults, strong seismic
ground shaking, seismic-related ground failure, and landslides. The underlying soils have low to
moderate erosion potential. Despite the low erosion characteristic, there is a potential for
erosion to occur during all site-disturbing phases of the project, resulting in sedimentation
entering the creek bed. In regard to “liquefaction potential,” the project is not located on a
geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project.
Portions of the project site are situated on soils with moderate expansion potential. If improperly
designed, the new bridge could be subject to damage related to shrink-swell movement.
Mitigation Measures
Design and construction of the proposed project would conform to all applicable stipulations of
the most recent City of San Luis Obispo and Caltrans standard specifications, the Caltrans
Bridge Design standards, and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials standards for bridge design. Project design and construction would also conform to all
applicable stipulations regarding the use of appropriate backfill materials in the most recent
Caltrans standard specifications.
Construction activity would include standard construction best management practices, a Storm
Water Pollution Prevention Plan, and applicable local erosion and sediment control plan which
are discussed in greater detail in Section 2.7 Hydrology and Water Quality of this EIR.
CEQA Determination
The project will be designed to ensure that a safe and enduring structure will be constructed
based on geotechnical data obtained from soil testing and borings obtained on site. The Marsh
Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to have a less than significant impact on
Geology and Soils.
2.6 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials and hazardous wastes are regulated by many state and federal laws.
These include not only specific statutes governing hazardous waste, but also a variety of laws
regulating air and water quality, human health, and land use.
Hazardous waste in California is regulated mainly under the authority of the federal Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 and the California Health and Safety Code. Other
California laws that affect hazardous waste are specific to handling, storage, transportation,
disposal, treatment, reduction, cleanup, and emergency planning.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Worker health and safety and public safety are key issues when dealing with hazardous
materials that may affect human health and the environment. Proper disposal of hazardous
material is vital if it is disturbed during project construction.
Affected Environment
A Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment was prepared by Geocon Consultants, Inc. in
December 2013 for the project area. The purpose of this assessment was to identify
Recognized Environmental Conditions (REC) and potential RECs within and adjacent to the
proposed improvement area which could affect the design, constructability, feasibility, and or/
the cost of the proposed project. A record search of federal, state and local databases and map
review was conducted and a field survey was completed on October 3, 2013. The field review
is conducted to visually confirm information gathered by aerial photos, database searches, and
to ensure interviews are accurate and complete.
The entire project area, including existing City ROW and many private parcels located adjacent
to the ROW (approximately 3 acres), was evaluated for RECs and/or Activity and Use
Limitations (AULs). RECs that have been identified in the project area are included in Table 2.6-
1 below. Based on the environmental assessment conducted for the proposed project, RECs
that could potentially be impacted by construction of this project are discussed in the
Environmental Consequences section below.
Several gasoline stations within or adjacent to the project area, as well as the Cheng Park which
was previously a gasoline station, have a history of leaking underground fuel tanks. While
records indicate that these sites have been cleaned up and the cases through the RWQCB
have been closed, there is potential that hydrocarbon contamination may still exist in soils that
would be disturbed by the proposed project. Furthermore there may still be lingering
groundwater contamination from contact with contaminated soils.
Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
Based on the results of the Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment, the Marsh Street Bridge
project has the potential to incur impacts as a result of encountering the hazardous waste
and/or materials identified in Table 2.6-1. To confirm if indeed hazardous materials are present,
additional actions are recommended to verify the presence/extent of RECs and evaluate the
potential for remediation during the Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E) phase of the
proposed project. These actions are listed in the Avoidance, Minimization and/or Mitigation
Measures Section.
No-Build Alternative
The No Build Alternative would not require any construction activities and would therefore have
no chance of encountering hazardous waste or hazardous materials.
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Table 2.6-1: Recognized Environmental Conditions Evidence
Location Description of REC Evidence Found
Description
of Associated
AUL
Marsh Street Bridge
Structure
Potential for Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM). New uses
of ACM were banned by the EPA in 1989. Revisions to
regulations issued by the Occupational Safety & Health
Administration (OSHA) on June 30, 1995, require that all
thermal systems insulation, surfacing materials, and resilient
flooring materials installed prior to 1981 be considered
presumed ACM and treated accordingly. In order to rebut the
designation as presumed ACM, OSHA requires that these
materials be surveyed, sampled, and assessed in accordance
with 40 CFR 763 (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response
Act). ACM have also been documented in the rail shim sheet
packing, bearing pads, support piers, and expansion joint
material of bridges.
None Found
Marsh Street Bridge
Structure
Potential lead-based paint on painted portions of the Marsh
Street Bridge. Also, structures constructed prior to 1978 are
presumed to contain lead-based paint unless proven
otherwise, although buildings constructed after 1978 may also
contain lead-based paints.
None Found
Former Young’s Mobil
(currently Cheng Park)
Potential for contamination from petroleum hydrocarbon
and/or methyl tertiary butyl ether leakage at the former
Young’s Mobil (currently Cheng Park) to the northeast of the
Marsh Street Bridge. This site had documented evidence of
leaking underground storage tanks though current reports
state the site has been cleaned up.
None Found
Underground Utility
Facilities
There is a potential for asbestos containing pipes used for
utilities to be located under Marsh Street. None Found
Mitigation Measures
Measure HAZ-1: An asbestos and lead-containing paint survey should be performed on the
existing bridge structure prior to demolition.
Measure HAZ-2: Based on the presence of elevated lead concentrations in sediment samples
collected from San Luis Obispo Creek in 2001 and 2002 (within the vicinity of the proposed
excavation area) and documented fuel releases at the former Young’s Mobil (currently Cheng
Park), soil generated during bridge replacement excavation activities should be properly
managed. Any excess soil (or soil exhibiting field indicators of apparent contamination) should
be characterized prior to offsite reuse or proper disposal where appropriate.
Measure HAZ-3: Groundwater extracted from construction excavations should be contained,
sampled, and properly discharged under permit or disposed of.
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Measure HAZ-4: Any undocumented underground storage tanks, wells, septic systems, or
other regulated unused subsurface structures should be properly removed or abandoned in
accordance with City or County permit requirements.
Measure HAZ-5: Any unused and removed asbestos containing pipe encountered during the
construction activities should be properly managed and disposed of at an appropriate disposal
facility.
Measure HAZ-6: The contractor should prepare a site-specific health and safety plan to
address potential contaminants of concern including lead and petroleum hydrocarbons.
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge has the potential to encounter hazards or
hazardous materials during construction which could present a health and human safety
concern for construction workers and adjacent property owners. Potential hazardous materials
have been identified through primary identification efforts and additional testing and/or
remediation will be required prior to or during construction. Impacts resulting from hazardous
waste could be potentially significant; however, those impacts would be reduced to a less than
significant level by including appropriate mitigation measures to protect the human environment
during and after construction.
2.7 Hydrology and Water Quality
Affected Environment
The proposed Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project lies in the San Luis Obispo Creek
watershed. The total watershed is about 84 square miles, with the area of watershed influencing
the project site equaling about 49 square miles. San Luis Obispo Creek begins about nine miles
upstream of the site. The San Luis Obispo Creek is a meandering water features through
downtown San Luis Obispo and flows generally east to west through the project site. The creek
in the project area has relatively steep, vegetated banks, and there has been history of erosion
problems both up and down stream of the bridge location. Just upstream, adjacent to the
Davita Dialysis Center, a sheet-pile retaining wall was installed as an emergency project when
the concrete wall along the dialysis center collapsed during a flood event.
Flooding within the San Luis Obispo Creek system is generally caused by intense Pacific storm
systems from December to March. The San Luis Obispo Creek system responds quickly to
short, high-intensity rainfall bursts, which tend to result in high-volume, brief floods. According to
the 2008 Federal Emergency Management Agency Flood Insurance Study, effective August 28,
2008, seven damaging floods have occurred in the San Luis Obispo Creek drainage area
between 1884 and 1973. The most serious of those floods were in January 1969 and February
1973, causing $1.5 million and $4.5 million damage, respectively.
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Environmental Consequences
Build Alternative
The proposed Marsh Street Bridge Replacement has been designed specifically to avoid
changes to the hydrology of the San Luis Obispo Creek. As the creek runs through downtown
San Luis Obispo, there are numerous choke points which can be overwhelmed during flood
events. Prior hydraulic analysis done by the City of San Luis Obispo determined that changes
in hydraulic capacity at one location can have substantial negative impacts on flooding and
hydraulics at other up- or down-stream locations. As a result, the new bridge will be designed to
provide a similar hydraulic capacity.
As the project does not involve increasing capacity or widening the Marsh Street Bridge, no
increases in impervious surfaces are anticipated after construction is completed. No
appreciable difference in long-term water quality impacts is expected to occur as no increases in
runoff are expected when comparing the existing condition with the completed project.
Anticipated increase in pollutant levels would occur temporarily during the construction phase of
the project. Construction activities would disturb soil. If the soil were not contained and were
directly exposed to rain, soil erosion and sediment could flow into the creeks, potentially
degrading water quality. Construction-related runoff could also contain other pollutants that
could contribute to reduced water quality in San Luis Obispo Creek. Construction equipment
would use toxic chemicals (such as gasoline, oils, grease, lubricants, and other petroleum-
based products) that could be released accidentally. Additionally, excavation activities could
reach shallow groundwater levels, potentially requiring dewatering. The proposed project would
not substantially deplete groundwater resources or interfere with groundwater recharge.
Avoidance Minimization and/or Mitigation Measures
Prior to the start of construction within the jurisdictions of Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the
State, the City of San Luis Obispo will need to obtain all necessary regulatory permits. These
permits are expected to include a CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the
RWQCB, a CWA Section 404 Nationwide 14 Permit from the USACE, and a Fish and Game
Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement from the CDFW. Measures provided in
these permits will need to be implemented prior to, during, and after construction. In addition a
Storm Water Pollutant Prevention Plan will be prepared prior to construction and implemented
during construction. This plan will provide a comprehensive list of best management practices
to minimize potential impacts to water quality, especially during rain events.
CEQA Determination
No permanent impacts to Hydrology and Water Quality are expected to occur as a result of this
project. Short term construction related water quality impacts have been identified, but with
incorporation of best management practices, these potential impacts are expected to be minor.
As a result, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to have a less than
significant impact on Hydrology and Water Quality.
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2.8 Noise
CEQA requires a strictly baseline versus build analysis to assess whether a proposed project
would have a noise impact. If a proposed project is determined to have a significant noise
impact under CEQA, then CEQA dictates that mitigation measures must be incorporated into
the project unless such measures are not feasible.
Affected Environment
The Marsh Street Bridge is surrounded by predominantly commercial office uses; however, the
Davita Dialysis Center, as a medical facility, qualifies as a sensitive receptor. Additionally, the
Cheng Park as an outdoor recreational facility and users of that facility could be affected by
changes to the noise environment.
The existing noise environment is dominated by traffic noise generated by vehicles using Marsh
Street; though some businesses such as the nearby car wash contribute to the ambient noise
environment. Table 2.8-1 shows the typical noise levels and identifies what types of uses would
generate those noise levels. The project area is likely in the 55-65 decibel range depending on
how heavy traffic levels are throughout the day.
Table 2.8-1: Typical Noise Levels
Source: Caltrans 2012
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
The San Luis Obispo Municipal Code Chapter 9.12.50B(6) prohibits activities including
“Operating or causing the operation of any tools or equipment used in construction, drilling,
repair, alteration or demolition work between weekday hours of seven p.m. and seven a.m. or
any time on Sundays and holidays, such that the sound therefrom creates a noise disturbance
across a residential or commercial real property line…” The code further states that where
technically and economically feasible, construction activities shall be conducted in such a
manner that the maximum noise levels at affected properties will not exceed 85 dBA for mobile
equipment and 75 dBA for stationary equipment near business properties.
Environmental Consequences
The proposed project would not change any of the long term conditions which contribute to
noise and the noise environment in the project area. The existing condition has three vehicle
travel lanes and the proposed condition would maintain those travel lanes in their existing
alignment. As such, this discussion only includes the potential for construction related noise
impacts.
Construction Noise
Construction activities would take place within the Marsh Street right-of-way, in the San Luis
Obispo Creek, and on select areas of adjacent private property. Generally, noise levels at
construction sites can vary from 55 dBA to a maximum of nearly 90 dBA when heavy equipment
is used. During construction of the project, noise from construction activities may intermittently
dominate the noise environment in the immediate area of construction.
Construction noise from this project would be intermittent, and noise levels would vary
depending on the type of construction activity. The loudest construction activities may include
engine noise from construction vehicles, jack hammering, and pile driving or drilling during
bridge construction. For this project, lowest construction equipment-related noise levels would
be 55 dBA at a distance of 50 feet for sound from a running pick-up truck. The highest noise
levels would be up to 90 dBA (at a distance of 50 feet) for pile driving or drilling necessary for
the construction of new bridge abutments and for equipment involved in general bridge
demolition activities. Vibratory pile driving will most likely be used wherever feasible to minimize
noise and vibration impacts to adjacent businesses and the Cheng Park; however drilling may
be an alternative. Although, 90 dBA is higher than the recommended City standard of 85 dBA, it
is not expected that there is a “technically and economically feasible” alternative which would
reduce construction noise below 85 dBA. Furthermore, the demolition and pile construction
activities are expected to be short term impacts, and therefore not a significant noise impact.
The following best management practices will be implemented during construction to reduce
noise to adjacent businesses and the public:
Consistent with City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code Chapter 9.12, construction
activities shall be restricted to Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. If
the project needs to continue construction outside these prescribed timeframes, an
exemption must be obtained from the Community Development Department.
Equip an internal combustion engine with the manufacturer-recommended muffler. Do
not operate an internal combustion engine on the job site without the appropriate muffler.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Mitigation Measures
No measures are needed for noise related impacts.
CEQA Determination
No permanent noise impacts are expected to occur as a result of this project. Short term
construction related noise impacts have been identified, but with incorporation of best
management practices, these potential impacts are expected to be moderate and short term.
As a result, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to have a less than
significant impact on Noise.
2.9 Public Services
Affected Environment
The project area includes Marsh Street, several commercial businesses and the San Luis
Obispo Creek. Cheng Park is located in the project area, just northeast of the Marsh Street
Bridge; however, no schools or other public facilities are located within the project area.
Environmental Consequences
No impacts are anticipated to the Cheng Park other than those discussed in Section 2.8 relating
to temporary construction noise. The project will not result in the need for additional public
services, nor will it reduce the benefit those services provide to local residents of San Luis
Obispo.
The proposed project will result in the temporary closure of Marsh Street for approximately 6
months while the existing bridge is demolished and the new bridge is constructed. This could
cause a temporary impact to accessibility for fire protection, police protection, and other
emergency services. Emergency access to all adjacent properties that could be affected by
construction will be maintained throughout construction. Construction activities will be
implemented to ensure businesses retain access and emergency services may also access
public or private areas where they are needed. The impacts on construction will be short term
and will be minimized through coordination with each emergency service that generally uses
Marsh Street for access through downtown San Luis Obispo. Furthermore, detour routes will be
established through the inclusion of a Traffic Management Plan during construction, and
emergency response dispatch will be aware of all closures to allow for proper emergency
response routing.
Mitigation Measures
No measures are needed for impacts to public services.
CEQA Determination
No permanent impacts to public services are expected to occur as a result of this project. Short
term construction related impacts to access for emergency services have been identified, but
with incorporation of a Traffic Management Plan (see Section 2.10) these potential impacts
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
would be minimized. As a result, the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is expected to
have a less than significant impact on Public Services.
2.10 Transportation and Traffic
This section summarizes the Traffic Impacts Memorandum for the Marsh Street Bridge
Replacement Project (Central Coast Transportation Consulting, 2014).
Affected Environment
The Traffic Impacts Memorandum was prepared to evaluate the effects on traffic and
transportation due to closure of Marsh Street in the project area during construction and was
developed in accordance with City of San Luis Obispo methodologies. For the following
intersections in the project area, traffic impacts were analyzed under existing conditions and
modeled construction conditions.
1. Mill Street/Santa Rosa Street
2. Palm Street/Chorro Street
3. Monterey Street/Osos Street
4. Monterey Street/Santa Rosa Street
5. Monterey Street/Johnson Avenue
6. Higuera Street/Chorro Street
7. Higuera Street/Osos Street
8. Higuera Street/Santa Rosa Street
9. Higuera Street Johnson Avenue
10. Marsh Street/Chorro Street
11. Marsh Street/Osos Street
12. Marsh Street/Santa Rosa Street
13. Marsh Street Johnson Avenue
14. Pacific Street/Osos Avenue
Existing Transportation Facilities
The Marsh Street Bridge is a three-lane bridge that spans the San Luis Obispo Creek. It is
located in downtown San Luis Obispo between Osos Street and Santa Rosa Street. The three
lanes of travel are all one-way through the project area traveling northeast and Marsh Street is a
major arterial for vehicle movement through downtown from U.S. 101 to the west. In addition to
the vehicle lanes of travel, Marsh Street also includes a class II bicycle lane and ADA compliant
sidewalk facilities on both sides of the street.
Environmental Consequences
The intersections were evaluated under the following scenarios, during the PM peak period:
1. Existing conditions using 2012 traffic counts
2. Worst case shift assuming no advance notice to drivers
3. Shift assuming advanced notice
4. Shift assuming advanced notice and signal timing changes
61 Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report Table 2.10-1: PM Peak Hour Intersection Level of Service Analysis Traffic Management Scenario > Existing No Advance Notice Advance Notice Advance Notice, Adjusted Signal Timing Intersection Control Type Delay (sec/veh) LOS Delay (sec/veh) LOS Delay (sec/veh) LOS Delay (sec/veh) LOS 1. Mill St/Santa Rosa St. Signal 5.8 A 5.7 A 12.9 B 12.0 B 2. Palm St/Chorro St Signal 10.2 B 10.2 B 10.6 B 10.6 B 3. Monterey St/Osos St Signal 10.7 B 96.9 F 15.8 B 14.4 B 4. Monterey St/Santa Rosa St Signal 17.6 B 87.3 F 19.4 B 19.9 B 5. Monterey St/Johnson Ave Signal 12.1 B 12.1 B 11.9 B 11.9 B 6. Higuera St/Chorro St Signal 22.7 C 22.5 C 23.2 C 23.0 C 7. Higuera St/Osos St Signal 11.4 B 90.2 F 15.4 C 13.0 B 8. Higuera St/Santa Rosa St Signal 7.4 A 9.7 A 9.7 A 9.7 A 9. Higuera St/Johnson Ave Side Street Stop 1.9 (15.7) A (C) 1.7 (18.0) A (C) 1.8 (16.0) A (C) 1.8 (16.0) A (C) 10. Marsh St/Chorro St Signal 11.6 B 8.6 A 9.6 A 9.6 A 11. Marsh St/Osos St Signal 11.9 B 16.8 B 12.6 B 11.9 B 12. Marsh St/Santa Rosa St Signal 8.4 A 13.7 B 16.5 B 16.6 B 13. Marsh St/Johnson Ave Signal 14.2 B 10.8 B 12.1 B 12.1 B 14. Pacific St/Osos St Side Street Stop 7.2 (24.9) A (C) 8.0 (27.6) A (D) 7.5 (20.7) A (C) 7.5 (20.7) A (C) Notes: HCM 2000 average control delay in seconds per vehicle. For side street stop controlled intersections, the delay and LOS for the worst movement is provided in parenthesis next to the overall intersection delay and LOS. Bold entries indicate unacceptable LOS. Source: Central Coast Transportation Consulting, Traffic Management Memorandum 2014
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
The results of the analysis are presented in Table 2.10-1 which represents and compares the
impacts to traffic flow and function at the fourteen intersections due to the temporary Marsh
Street road closure. Table 2.10-1 shows the PM Peak Hour Levels of Service (LOS), measured
by vehicle delay time while stopped at the intersection in seconds per vehicle.
The PM peak hour was chosen as it is the worst traffic time for eastbound movement on Marsh
Street and the surrounding area. The City of San Luis Obispo’s Circulation Element policy
defines the maximum acceptable delay in the downtown area as a LOS E, or 40 to 60 seconds
of delay, which may cause drivers to frequently wait through more than one cycle of a traffic
signal.
The first scenario considered, shown in Table 2-10-1 as “No Advance Notice” results in the
worst traffic congestion delays. All drivers who approach the Marsh Street and Osos Street
intersection are detoured around the road closure without advanced warning to take alternate
routes through downtown. The LOS at Intersections 3, 4, and 7 degrade to F with a delay time
ranging from 87 to 97 sec/veh during the PM Peak Hour. This represents an unacceptable
temporary impact to the traffic condition according to the City’s Circulation Element policy.
The second scenario considered, shown in Table 2-10.1 as “Advance Notice” would give drivers
an advanced warning on the major approaches to the Project Area and a planned detour route
using Chorro Street to guide eastbound traffic around the work area. With these traffic
management measures in place, an acceptable LOS at all study intersections was achieved.
However, even with advanced warning several key movements at the study intersections have
queue lengths that spill back into other movements causing potential delay at other intersections
and resulting in an unpredictable traffic environment.
While a LOS E is acceptable, the proposed Traffic Management Mitigation endeavors to
maintain close to existing levels of flow and function to minimize the construction impacts on
residents and businesses in the downtown. Therefore, in addition to advance warning signs and
a detour route, the fourth scenario, shown in Table 2-10.1 as “Advanced Notice, Adjusted Signal
Timing,” would include minor adjustments to signal timing, parking restrictions, and limited
restriping to mitigate the queues to acceptable levels. The LOS achieved by the efforts
proposed in the fourth scenario is consistent with existing LOS in many of the study
intersections.
Avoidance, Minimization and/or Mitigation Measures
To achieve the results of the traffic analysis study consistent with the “Advance Notice, Adjusted
Signal Timing” scenario, the following actions are proposed to mitigate congestion in downtown
San Luis Obispo caused by the closure of Marsh Street between Osos Street and Santa Rosa
Street for the construction of the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project. The Traffic
Management Plan has been included as Appendix E.
Measure TRAF-1: Prior to the start of construction, provide a portable changeable message
sign (PCMS) at the project area announcing the future closure of the road segment. At the start
of construction, move the PCMS several intersections west of the project area as advance
warning to the closure and detour.
Measure TRAF-2: Implement a media notice campaign and notify local businesses, City
services, and emergency response agencies of the closure and anticipated schedule of
construction.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Measure TRAF-3: At the US-101 freeway exit to Marsh Street, provide advanced warning of a
road closure and detour ahead. Additionally, install “Road Closed” signage within the adjacent
one to two intersections of the Project Area.
Measure TRAF-4: Provide a preferred detour route for eastbound/northbound traffic utilizing
Chorro Street and Mill Street. Use detour and construction signage for the entire length of the
route to guide drivers who are unfamiliar with the downtown network. Include detour signage on
Osos Street as well for drivers who have bypassed the preferred route.
Measure TRAF-5: Include notification that businesses remain open during construction and that
only business traffic can access Marsh Street just east of the Osos Street intersection (#11).
Measure TRAF-6: Adjust signal timing at the five intersections and approaches identified below.
Intersection Approach with
Additional Green Time
Approach with
Reduced Green Time
1. Mill Street/Santa Rosa Street Eastbound Northbound
3. Monterey Street/Osos Street Northbound Eastbound
4. Monterey Street/Santa Rosa Street Eastbound Northbound
7. Higuera Street/Osos Street Northbound Westbound
11. Marsh Street/ Osos Street Eastbound Northbound
Measure TRAF-7: Temporarily prohibit parking on eastbound Mill Street at Santa Rosa (#1),
within 160 feet of the intersection, and northbound Osos Street at Higuera Street (#7) and
Monterey Street (#3).
Measure TRAF-8: Modify pavement striping at northbound Osos Street at Monterey Street (#3),
as well as Marsh Street and Osos Street as provided in the Traffic Management Plan.
Measure TRAF-9: Monitor daily traffic volumes of Buchon Street consistent with the active
Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. As needed, implement additional detour signage
to direct traffic away from the neighborhood.
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge, and associated closure of Marsh Street
during construction, has the potential to cause significant traffic impacts in and around the
project area due to exceedances in the City of San Luis Obispo’s LOS standards. The Traffic
Impacts Memorandum prepared for this project evaluated the extent of those impacts and
provided mitigation measures which would reduce those impacts. Traffic impacts resulting from
the closure of Marsh Street during construction could be potentially significant; however, those
impacts would be reduced to a less than significant level by including appropriate mitigation
measures to ensure LOS in the study area is consistent with acceptable standards identified in
the City of San Luis Obispo’s General Plan, Circulation Element.
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2.11 Utilities and Service Systems
Affected Environment
Utilities
In the City of San Luis Obispo, potable water, wastewater, and storm drains are managed and
operated by the City of San Luis Obispo Public Works and Utilities departments.
The Pacific Gas and Electric Company provides electricity, which is in underground facilities
(and within conduit through the bridge) within the project area. Natural gas services are
provided by the Southern California Gas Company which is also underground and in conduits
through the Marsh Street Bridge. Various other cable, telephone, and fiber optic utility lines are
expected to be located underground within the Marsh Street right-of-way. Table 2.1.4-1 outlines
a preliminary list of utilities that are expected to be located within the project area.
Table 2.11-1: Existing Utility Facilities
Utility Company Description of Utility
Facility Utility Location
City of San Luis Obispo Water
Water is conveyed through an underground
pipe that runs along Marsh Street and
through the Bridge.
City of San Luis Obispo Wastewater
Wastewater is conveyed in a pipe and sewer
siphon system which is piped underneath the
San Luis Obispo Creek.
City of San Luis Obispo Storm Drain
The storm drain system runs along Marsh
Street and there are several storm drain
inlets along the curb and gutter in the project
area.
City of San Luis Obispo Communication
Underground along Marsh Street, and within
conduit in the Marsh Street Bridge crossing
the San Luis Obispo Creek.
Pacific Gas and Electric Underground Electrical Lines
Underground along Marsh Street, and within
conduit in the Marsh Street Bridge crossing
the San Luis Obispo Creek.
Southern California Gas
Company Gas Line Underground gas pipe located along Marsh
Street and within the Marsh Street Bridge.
AT&T Cable
Television/Communication
Underground along Marsh Street, and within
conduit in the Marsh Street Bridge crossing
the San Luis Obispo Creek.
AT&T Fiber Optic Communication
Underground along Marsh Street, and within
conduit in the Marsh Street Bridge crossing
the San Luis Obispo Creek.
Charter Communications Various Telecommunication
Lines
Underground along Marsh Street, and within
conduit in the Marsh Street Bridge crossing
the San Luis Obispo Creek.
Source: Dokken Engineering, 2015
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Emergency Services
The City of San Luis Obispo is served by the San Luis Obispo City Fire Department and the San
Luis Obispo Police Department for emergency services. San Luis Obispo receives paramedic
services from the Fire Department and local ambulance services. All of the above listed
emergency services use the Marsh Street Bridge as a corridor for accessing downtown in a
northeastern direction.
Environmental Consequences
Utilities
Build Alternative
Each of the facilities identified in Table 2.11-1 are expected to require relocation associated with
the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement. These include all of the telecommunication lines, the
water line, the gas line, and electric lines that run under Marsh Street. Relocation of these
facilities is expected to be relatively straightforward and would result in a similar facility within
the proposed replacement Marsh Street Bridge.
The existing wastewater (sewer) facility that runs through a siphon system under the Marsh
Street Bridge and the San Luis Obispo Creek would be removed and replaced with a new,
similar, but larger sewer facility. This sewer facility replacement is necessary because the
existing facility would conflict with the replacement bridge abutments. As part of the preliminary
engineering, this work is expected to be accomplished by excavating down below the existing
bridge abutments and performing horizontal directional drilling to install the new sewer facility
underneath the new Marsh Street Bridge and the San Luis Obispo Creek. The new siphon
would tie into existing sewer facilities on either side of the bridge and would not conflict with the
new bridge facility. It is expected that this new sewer facility would be constructed as one of the
first orders of work for the bridge replacement project.
Each of these utilities would be located during final project design. Full utility coordination,
consistent with the City of San Luis Obispo and Caltrans requirements, would be performed.
Impacts to the utilities themselves, as well as maintaining service throughout construction would
be accomplished by adequately coordinating how these facilities would be moved and at what
time during the construction process. Short term utility outages may be necessary but are not
expected to result in any potentially significant impacts to the physical or human environment.
Environmental impacts caused during the physical relocation of these utility lines would be
contained entirely within the environmental study area of this project and are accounted for in
each of the analysis sections of this EIR.
No-Build Alternative
Under the No-Build Alternative, there would be no bridge improvements or utility relocations
within the study area and no environmental impacts would be expected.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
Emergency Services
Build Alternative
The proposed project is not expected to have any adverse effects on emergency response
planning or risk exposure. The proposed project would provide a long term solution for this
structurally deficient bridge and would ensure emergency service access is maintained through
this section of downtown San Luis Obispo.
Closure of Marsh Street may result in some temporary impacts to emergency service access
through the project area. Marsh Street, as a major one-way arterial through downtown San Luis
Obispo is expected to be an access route for emergency service vehicles. These potential
impacts can be minimized through standard traffic management planning which may include
timely notification of the road closure and details of detour routes to police and fire departments,
the California Highway Patrol, and other emergency service providers, well before the start of
construction. With this advanced notice, emergency service providers can plan ahead and
avoid the Marsh Street corridor when possible which should limit any increases in emergency
response times during construction.
No-Build Alternative
Under the No Build Alternative the existing condition would not change and would therefore
have no effect on emergency services. Over the long term, closure of the Marsh Street Bridge
could occur due to advanced deterioration and as a safety risk which would result in a negative
impact to emergency response accessibility in and around the project area.
Avoidance, Minimization and/or Mitigation Measures
Construction of the Build Alternative would require the utility facilities within the project limits to
be relocated. A more detailed study would be conducted during the design phase of the project.
In addition, the following measures would apply prior to and during construction.
Measure UTL/ES-1: To minimize interruptions of service to utility customers, a series of
coordination letters shall be sent to all impacted utility companies to identify utilities within the
proposed project. Letters will indicate where utility relocations are to be performed and the
required time to relocate them. Design plans will be sent to involved utility owners during the
project development phase. Meetings will be arranged with utility companies as necessary to
discuss impacts and relocation plans.
Measure UTL/ES-2: A Transportation Management Plan shall be prepared. It will ensure that
there is appropriately designed detour routes for emergency services onto all roads involved in
the proposed project. The plan will be provided to emergency public services (including fire,
police, and hospital facilities).
Measure UTL/ES-3: Emergency public services, local law enforcement agencies, and local
businesses will be notified of the proposed project the planned closure of Marsh Street during
construction. This notice shall occur at least one month before construction begins.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CEQA Determination
The proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge, and associated closure of Marsh Street
during construction, has the potential to cause significant impacts traffic related impacts in and
around the project area which could negatively affect emergency services and their access
through downtown San Luis Obispo. No significant impacts to utility systems are expected.
Impacts to emergency services resulting from the closure of Marsh Street during construction
could be potentially significant; however, those impacts would be reduced to a less than
significant level by including appropriate mitigation measures to ensure emergency services are
notified well in advance of the project and can plan detour routes in coordination with the City of
San Luis Obispo’s Public Works Department.
2.12 Cumulative Impacts
Cumulative impacts are those that result from past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future
actions, combined with the potential impacts of this proposed project. A cumulative effect
assessment looks at the collective impacts posed by individual land use plans and projects.
Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor, but collectively substantial impacts taking
place over a period of time.
CEQA Guidelines, Section 15130, describes when a cumulative impact analysis is warranted
and what elements are necessary for an adequate discussion of cumulative impacts. The
definition of cumulative impacts, under CEQA, can be found in Section 15355 of the CEQA
Guidelines.
The Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project is not expected to have cumulative
environmental impacts for the following reasons:
1. Downtown San Luis Obispo and the area within one mile of the project location is
substantially developed and there is minimal new development projects which could
contribute to a cumulative environmental impact when considered in conjunction with the
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project.
2. Environmental impacts to all resources are either less than significant or less than
significant with mitigation incorporated, with the exception of destruction of the historic
Marsh Street Bridge structure. Mitigation measures have been identified by the City of
San Luis Obispo and through coordination with resource agencies to ensure project
specific impacts are mitigated on both an individual level, as well as a cumulative level.
Demolition of a historic structure is a significant and unavoidable impact; however, it
does not constitute a cumulative impact since the project would have no potential to
directly or indirectly impact other historic structures in the region.
3. The scope of this project is to replace a structurally deficient bridge and would result in
minimal impacts to natural habitat. No new development would occur and no significant
cumulative loss of habitat would occur with this project when considered along with other
development project in the region.
4. Replacement of the structure will prevent a future road closure due to bridge failure,
which would have long term impacts to traffic, emergency response, and utilities until
replacement was completed.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CHAPTER 3 - COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
Early and continuing coordination with the general public and appropriate public agencies is an
essential part of the environmental process. It helps planners determine the necessary scope of
environmental documentation, the level of analysis required, and identify potential impacts and
mitigation measures and related environmental requirements. Agency consultation and public
participation for this project have been accomplished through a variety of formal and informal
methods, including PDT meetings, interagency coordination meetings, and through the defined
CEQA process for an EIR. This chapter summarizes the results of the City of San Luis Obispo’s
efforts to fully identify, address and resolve project-related issues through early and continuing
coordination.
3.1 Scoping Process
Several alternatives were developed and considered by the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement
PDT that includes the City of San Luis Obispo, Caltrans District 5 staff, and engineering and
environmental planning consultants (Dokken Engineering, Central Coast Transportation
Consulting). Only one build alternative was both feasible and met the purpose and need of the
project and is discussed in Chapter 1 of the document.
The City of San Luis Obispo prepared a Notice of Preparation for this project which was
submitted to the California State Clearinghouse on March 10, 2015 for distribution to other
regulatory agencies that might like to comment on the project. The Notice of Preparation
provided a project overview, the purpose and need of the project, a project description, and a
summary of know environmental issues which would require impact analysis in this EIR. The 30
day comment period for the Notice of Preparation is between March 10, 2015 and April 8, 2015.
No comments were received from other agencies during the Notice of Preparation comment
period.
3.2 Agency Consultation and Coordination
During the preparation of the technical studies for the project, extensive contacts were made
with public agencies and local organization with interests in the project. Some of these
consultation efforts have been made in coordination with Caltrans District 5 Local Assistance as
part of the NEPA process, but serve as key elements to ensuring the CEQA process has been
completed thoroughly.
3.2.1 Interagency Meetings
San Luis Obispo Cultural Heritage Commission
Phil Dunsmore, the City’s Cultural Heritage Committee Liason, and Mike McGuire, City Civil
Engineer, presented the undertaking at a regularly scheduled public Cultural Heritage
Commission (CHC) meeting on September 24, 2012. They recommended that the CHC concur
on the proposed replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge. The CHC members discussed the
design aspects of the new bridge in general and expressed a desire for the new bridge to reflect
the historical context of the original bridge and to keep the scale intact. Ultimately the CHC
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
granted concurrence for the replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge (see Appendix D for a
record of this coordination).
San Luis Obispo City Council
San Luis Obispo City Council
On January 22, 2013, at a regularly scheduled public Council meeting the City Council reviewed
the proposed recommendation for replacement of the existing structure. Council approved the
replacement of the structure and endorsed the proposed provisions recommended by the CHC.
California State Historic Preservation Officer
In order to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act, Section 106 of the National
Preservation Act, and other federal requirements, Caltrans has been working with the City to
develop cultural documentation which will be used for Section 106 consultation with the
California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). The discussion of cultural resources and
determination of significant impacts to the historic Marsh Street Bridge in this EIR is based on
the Historic Property Survey Report and Finding of Adverse Effect Report prepared for this
project. Consultation with SHPO has not yet occurred but will be a requirement prior to
approval of the final EIR by the City of San Luis Obispo to ensure that the environmental impact
determinations have been made accurately and to ensure that the proposed mitigation
measures will reduce impacts to historic resources to the greatest extent feasible. A full record
of consultation efforts with SHPO will be included in the Final EIR under Appendix D once they
are completed.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
On December 12, 2014, Caltrans requested Formal Consultation with the United States Fish
and Wildlife Service pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Section 7
Consultation is occurring since the project will utilize federal funds and must comply with NEPA.
Caltrans, in coordination with the City of San Luis Obispo, will continue to coordinate with
USFWS to obtain a Biological Opinion for the project’s impacts to California red-legged frog and
its Critical Habitat. This consultation effort is ongoing and will be completed prior to approval of
the Final EIR.
National Marine Fisheries Service
On December 12, 2014, Caltrans requested Informal Consultation with the United States
National Marine Fisheries Service pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act.
Section 7 Consultation is occurring since the project will utilize federal funds and must comply
with NEPA. Caltrans, in coordination with the City of San Luis Obispo, will continue to
coordinate with USFWS to obtain a concurrence letter for the project’s impacts to South-central
coast steelhead and its Critical Habitat.
On January 7, 2015, the NMFS requested additional information regarding potential changes in
the stream morphology and fish passage conditions, as well as potential for bed erosion may
eventually propagate upstream after construction is completed in relation to the abandoned
concrete-sewer encasement currently under the bridge. Freddy Otte, a City of San Luis Obispo
Biologist, and Dokken Engineering environmental staff did additional field research and in
coordination with Caltrans, prepared a response letter to the NMFS on April 2, 2015. This letter
documented the benefits of leaving the existing streambed conditions as they are to the greatest
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
extent possible (including leaving the sewer encasement in place), and it included additional
minimization measures and best management practices to ensure erosion and other hazardous
materials do not enter the channel during construction. This consultation effort is ongoing and
will be completed prior to approval of the Final EIR.
3.3 Public Participation
Pursuant to CEQA requirements, this proposed Environmental Impact Report was circulated for
45 days from February 12, 2016 through March 28, 2016 and it solicited public review and
comment. A public meeting was held at the San Luis Obispo City/County Library Conference
Room located at 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. This meeting was held to
provide information to the public and other interested parties about the project and provide
written comments on the environmental document and the project in general. The Public
Notice of Availability is included in Appendix H and the Response to Public and Agency
Comments is included in Appendix I of this Final EIR.
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CHAPTER 4 - LIST OF PREPARERS
City of San Luis Obispo
Michael McGuire Project Engineer
Barbara Lynch Deputy Director of PW/City Engineer
Dokken Engineering
Nathan Donnelly Project Manager
Megan Carter Project Engineer
Tim Chamberlain Environmental Coordinator
Environmental Document (Primary Author)
Environmental Quality Control/Quality Assurance
Amy Dunay Historic Property Survey Report
Archaeological Survey Report
Angela Scudiere Natural Environment Study (co-author)
Biological Assessment (co-author)
Carolynn Daman Natural Environment Study (co-author)
Biological Assessment (co-author)
Carlene Grecco Geographical Information System Support
Central Coast Transportation Consulting
Joe Fernandez Traffic Impacts Memorandum
Galvin Preservation and Associates
Laura O’Neill Historic Resources Evaluation Report
Finding of No Adverse Effect Report
Andrea Galvin Historic Resource and Section 106 Support
Geocon Consultants, Inc.
Matthew Tidwell Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CHAPTER 5 - DISTRIBUTION LIST
State Clearinghouse
P.O.Box 3044
Sacramento, CA 95812
San Luis Obispo Public Works
Attn: Michael McGuire
919 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
California Department of Transportation
District 5
Attention: Kelso Vidal
50 Higuera Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
United State Fish and Wildlife Service
Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office
2493 Portola Road, Suite B
Ventura, CA 93003
National Marine Fisheries Service
West Coast Region
Attn: Jay Ogawa
501 West Ocean Boulevard, Suite 4200
Long Beach, CA 90802
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Los Angeles District, Regulatory Division
915 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 930
Los Angeles, CA 90017
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Central Region (#4)
1234 E. Shaw Avenue
Fresno, CA 93710
California Department of Water Resources
P.O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236
Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board
895 Aerovista Place, Suite 101
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
California State Historic Preservation Officer
P.O. Box 942896
Sacramento, CA 94296
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
AT&T
Re: Utility Relocation
5575 Reindeer Place
Paso Robles, CA 93446
AT&T
Re: Utility Relocation
196 Suburban Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
Charter Communications
Re: Utility Relocation
270 Bridge Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Pacific Gas and Electric
Re: Utility Relocation
4325 South Higuera Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Southern California Gas Company
Re: Utility Relocation
1171 More Ranch Road
Goleta, CA 93116
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Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project - Environmental Impact Report
CHAPTER 6 - REFERENCES
Alternatives Study Report
2013 Alternatives Study Report for the Marsh Street Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California.
Prepared by Dokken Engineering. January 2013
Biological Assessment for California Red-Legged Frog and Central Coast Steelhead
2014 Biological Assessment for California Red-Legged Frog and Central Coast Steelhead
for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project, San Luis Obispo, California.
Prepared by Dokken Engineering. October 2014
City of San Luis Obispo General Plan
2015 City of San Luis Obispo General Plan, Element Adoption 1996-2012
Finding of Adverse Effect Report
2014 Finding of Adverse Effect Report for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project,
San Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Galvin Preservation and Associates. June
2014.
Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment
2013 Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement
Project, San Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Geocon Consultants, Inc.
December 2013.
Historic Property Survey Report
2014 Historic Property Survey Report for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project,
San Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Dokken Engineering. October 2014
Natural Environment Study
2014 Natural Environment Study for the Marsh Street Replacement Project, San Luis
Obispo, California. San Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Dokken Engineering.
October 2014
Construction Noise Technical Memorandum
2013 Construction Noise Technical Memorandum for the Marsh Street Bridge
Replacement Project, San Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Dokken
Engineering. November 2013
Traffic Impact Memorandum
2014 Traffic Impact Memorandum for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project, San
Luis Obispo, California. Prepared by Central Coast Transportation Consulting.
November 2014.
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 1
Appendix A California Environmental Quality
Act Checklist
The following checklist identifies physical, biological, social, and economic factors that might be
affected by the proposed project. The California Environmental Quality Act impact levels include
“potentially significant impact,” “less than significant impact with mitigation,” “less than significant
impact,” and “no impact.”
Supporting documentation of all California Environmental Quality Act checklist determinations is
provided in Chapter 2 of this Environmental Impact Report. Discussion of all impacts and
mitigation measures is under the appropriate topic headings in Chapter 2.
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving
at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact” as indicated by the checklist on the
following pages.
The proposed project would have potentially significant impacts to:
Aesthetics Agriculture Resources Air Quality
Biological
Resources Cultural Resources Geology/Soils
Greenhouse Gas
Emissions Hazards & Hazardous
Materials Hydrology/Water
Quality
Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Noise
Population/Housing Public Services Recreation
Transportation/
Traffic Utilities/Service
Systems Mandatory Findings of
Significance
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 2
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
I. AESTHETICS: Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but
not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic
buildings within a state scenic highway
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or
quality of the site and its surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
II. AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES: In
determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are
significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer
to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site
Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept.
of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing
impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining
whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland,
are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may
refer to information compiled by the California Department
of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state’s
inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range
Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment
Project; and the forest carbon measurement methodology
provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air
Resources Board. Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland
of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the
maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency,
to non-agricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract?
c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of,
forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section
12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources
Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland
Production (as defined by Government Code section
51104(g))?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 3
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest
land to non-forest use?
e) Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or
conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
III. AIR QUALITY: Where available, the significance criteria
established by the applicable air quality management or air
pollution control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of
any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-
attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions which
exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)?
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial
number of people?
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or
through habitat modifications, on any species identified as
a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat
or other sensitive natural community identified in local or
regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife or US Fish and Wildlife
Service?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 4
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected
wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal,
etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological
interruption, or other means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native
resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with
established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors,
or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting
biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan,
or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance
of a historical resource as defined in §15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance
of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5?
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological
resource or site or unique geologic feature?
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of formal cemeteries?
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS: Would the project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death
involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated
on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault
Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area
or based on other substantial evidence of a known
fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 5
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or
that would become unstable as a result of the project, and
potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral
spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B
of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial
risks to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of
septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste
water?
VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS: Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or
indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the
environment?
An assessment of the greenhouse gas emissions and
climate change is included in the body of
environmental document. While the City of San Luis
Obispo has included this good faith effort in order to
provide the public and decision-makers as much
information as possible about the project, it is the
City of San Luis Obispo’s determination that in the
absence of further regulatory or scientific information
related to GHG emissions and CEQA significance, it is
too speculative to make a significance determination
regarding the project’s direct and indirect impact with
respect to climate change. The City of San Luis
Obispo does remain firmly committed to
implementing measures to help reduce the potential
effects of the project. These measures are out-lined in
the body of the environmental document.
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation
adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases?
VIII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: Would the
project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 6
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within
one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would
it create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles
of a public airport or public use airport, would the project
result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in
the project area?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an
adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,
injury or death involving wildland fires, including where
wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands?
IX. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY: Would the
project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere
substantially with groundwater recharge such that there
would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the
local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of
pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which
would not support existing land uses or planned uses for
which permits have been granted)?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 7
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the
site or area, including through the alteration of the course
of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in
substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the
site or area, including through the alteration of the course
of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or
amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in
flooding on- or off-site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed
the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage
systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff?
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as
mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood
Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map?
h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures
which would impede or redirect flood flows?
i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,
injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a
result of the failure of a levee or dam?
j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow
X. LAND USE AND PLANNING: Would the project:
a) Physically divide an established community?
b)Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or
regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project
(including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan,
local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for
the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental
effect?
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or
natural community conservation plan?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 8
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
XI. MINERAL RESOURCES: Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral
resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important
mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local
general plan, specific plan or other land use plan?
XII. NOISE: Would the project result in:
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in
excess of standards established in the local general plan
or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other
agencies?
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive
groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without
the project?
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient
noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles
of a public airport or public use airport, would the project
expose people residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would
the project expose people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING: Would the project:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either
directly (for example, by proposing new homes and
businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension
of roads or other infrastructure)?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 9
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES:
a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical
impacts associated with the provision of new or physically
altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically
altered governmental facilities, the construction of which
could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to
maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other
performance objectives for any of the public services:
Fire protection?
Police protection?
Schools?
Parks?
Other public facilities?
XV. RECREATION:
a) Would the project increase the use of existing
neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational
facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the
facility would occur or be accelerated?
b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require
the construction or expansion of recreational facilities
which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 10
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
XVI. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC: Would the project:
a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy
establishing measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system, taking into account
all modes of transportation including mass transit and non-
motorized travel and relevant components of the
circulation system, including but not limited to
intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian
and bicycle paths, and mass transit?
b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management
program, including, but not limited to level of service
standards and travel demand measures, or other standards
established by the county congestion management agency
for designated roads or highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either
an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that
results in substantial safety risks?
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access?
f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans or programs
regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or
otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such
facilities?
XVII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS: Would the
project:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
b) Require or result in the construction of new water or
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water
drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – CEQA Checklist Page 11
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the
project from existing entitlements and resources, or are
new or expanded entitlements needed?
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment
provider which serves or may serve the project that it has
adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand
in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity
to accommodate the project’s solid waste disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
XVIII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat
of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to
eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially
reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or
endangered plant or animal or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of California history or
prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually
limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively
considerable" means that the incremental effects of a
project are considerable when viewed in connection with
the effects of past projects, the effects of other current
projects, and the effects of probable future projects)?
c) Does the project have environmental effects which will
cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either
directly or indirectly?
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Appendix B Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Plan
The City of San Luis Obispo\, as the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), has developed a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan for the Marsh Street Bridge
Replacement Project. This list is designed to ensure that the mitigation measures identified in
the project’s Environmental Impact Report are implemented prior to, during, and after
completion of construction.
The following table contains a list of the mitigation measures that are proposed to reduce
potential environmental impacts for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project. For each
measure, the table identifies timing of implementation, the party responsible for implementation,
completion check box, and space for initials.
The City of San Luis Obispo is responsible for ensuring the implementation of all measures in
this Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan.
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 1 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Biological Environment Natural Communities Measure BIO-1: Vegetation clearing will only occur within the delineated project boundaries. Trees located in areas along the edge of the construction zone should be trimmed wherever possible. Trees and vegetation should be removed in the late fall through winter months, to the greatest extent practicable. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-2: All riparian areas temporarily disturbed during project construction will be restored onsite to pre-project conditions or better prior to project completion. The City will prepare habitat restoration planting plans in coordination with arborist/landscape architect and project biologist prior to construction. Prior to implementation, the project will receive approval from water regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over San Luis Obispo Creek and adjacent riparian habitat. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-3: To minimize permanent lighting within the San Luis Obispo Creek riparian corridor, any lighting proposed to be established on the Marsh Street Bridge must be shielded and directed away from the creek. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-4: Prior to arrival at the project site and prior to leaving the project site, construction equipment that may contain invasive plants and/or seeds must be cleaned to reduce the spreading of noxious weeds. During construction Resident Engineer Measure BIO-5: To avoid the export of invasive plant species during construction, no soil or plant material will be transported off site. In the event that soil or plant material must be exported, it must be disposed of at a certified landfill. During construction Resident Engineer Wetlands and Other Waters Measures BIO-6: The project limits in proximity to San Luis Obispo Creek and valley foothill riparian habitat will be marked prior to any ground disturbing activities with high visibility Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) fencing or staking to ensure construction will not further encroach into channels. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 2 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-7: Erosion Control Measures must be implemented during construction. To minimize the mobilization of sediment to adjacent water bodies, the following erosion-control and sediment-control measures will be included in the construction specifications, based on standard Caltrans measures and standard dust-reduction measures. Soil exposure must be minimized through the use of temporary BMPs, groundcover, and stabilization measures; The contractor must conduct periodic maintenance of erosion- and sediment-control measures. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-8: To conform to water quality requirements, the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must include the following: Vehicle maintenance, staging and storing equipment, materials, fuels, lubricants, solvents, and other possible contaminants shall be a minimum of 60 feet from riparian or aquatic habitats. Any necessary equipment washing shall occur where the water cannot flow into San Luis Obispo Creek. The project proponent will prepare a spill prevention and clean-up plan; Construction equipment will not be operated in flowing water; Construction work must be conducted according to site-specific construction plans that minimize the potential for sediment input to San Luis Obispo Creek; Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic life shall be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering San Luis Obispo Creek; Equipment used in and around San Luis Obispo Creek must be in good working order and free of dripping or leaking engine fluids; and, Any surplus concrete rubble, asphalt, or other debris from construction must be taken to a City approved disposal site. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer Animal Species Measure BIO-9: The City must not use herbicides to control invasive, exotic plants. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 3 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-10: Before any activities begin on the project, the project biologist will conduct a training session for all construction personnel. At a minimum, the training will include a description of all sensitive species, including steelhead; their habitat, Critical Habitats, the project specific measures being implemented to conserve these species, and the boundaries within which the project may be accomplished. Prior to Construction San Luis Obispo ______ Measure BIO-11: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife will be allowed to leave the construction area unharmed. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-12: To allow subterranean wildlife enough time to escape initial clearing and grubbing activities, equipment used during initial clearing and grubbing shall be operated at speeds no greater than 3 miles per hour. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-13: If vegetation removal is to take place during the breeding season (February 15th –September 15th), a pre-construction nesting bird survey must be conducted within 7 days prior to vegetation removal by a qualified biologist with experience conducting presence/absence surveys. Should a nesting sensitive bird species be observed, work will immediately stop in the vicinity and additional coordination with USFWS will be initiated. Within 2 weeks of the nesting bird survey, all vegetation cleared by the biologist must be removed by the contractor. A minimum 100 foot no-disturbance buffer will be established around any active nest to limit the impacts of construction activities. The contractor must immediately stop work in the nesting area until the appropriate buffer is established and is prohibited from conducting work that could disturb the birds (as determined by the project biologist and in coordination with wildlife agencies) in the buffer area until the project biologist determines the young have fledged. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 4 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-14: If demolition of the bridge or work immediately adjacent to the bridge is planned to occur during the nesting season, measures shall be taken to avoid impacts to migratory swallows. To protect migratory swallows, unoccupied nests will be removed from the existing bridge structure prior to the nesting season (February 15th – September 15th). During the nesting season, the bridge structure must be maintained either through use of exclusion devices and/or the active removal of partially constructed nests. After a nest is completed, it can no longer be removed until nesting season is over. If active and occupied nests are discovered, disruptive work in proximity to the active nest will stop. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Threatened or Endangered Species Measure BIO-15: A biologist with experience in the identification of all life stages of the CRLF, and its Critical Habitat (75 FR 12816), will survey the project site no more than 48 hours before the onset of work activities. If any life stage of the CRLF is detected the USFWS will be notified prior to the start of construction. If Caltrans and the USFWS determine that adverse effects to the CRLF or its Critical Habitat cannot be avoided, the proposed project will not commence until Caltrans completes the appropriate level of consultation with the USFWS. Prior to Construction San Luis Obispo ______ Measure BIO-16: Work activities will take place during the dry season, between April 1 and November 1, when water levels are typically at their lowest, and CRLF are likely to be more detectable. Should activities need to be conducted outside of this period, Caltrans may conduct or authorize such activities after obtaining the USFWS written approval. During construction San Luis Obispo ______ Measure BIO-17: Before work begins on any proposed project, a biologist with experience in the ecology of the CRLF, as well as the identification of all its life stages, will conduct a training session for all construction personnel, which will include a description of the CRLF, its Critical Habitat, and specific measures that are being implemented to avoid adverse effects to the subspecies during the proposed project. Prior to Construction San Luis Obispo ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 5 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-18: If any life stage of the CRLF is detected in the project area during construction, work will cease immediately and the resident engineer, authorized biologist, or biological monitor will notify the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office via telephone or electronic mail. If Caltrans and the USFWS determine that adverse effects to California red-legged frogs cannot be avoided, construction activities will remain suspended until Caltrans and the USFWS complete the appropriate level of consultation. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-19: During project activities, all trash that may attract predators will be properly contained, removed from the work site, and disposed of regularly. Following construction, all trash and construction debris will be removed from work areas. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-20: Prior to the onset of work, Caltrans will ensure that a plan is in place for prompt and effective response to any accidental spills. All workers will be informed of the importance of preventing spills and of the appropriate measures to implement should a spill occur (See BIO-6). Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-21: All refueling, maintenance; and staging of equipment and vehicles will occur at least 60 feet from aquatic or riparian habitat and not in a location from where a spill would drain directly toward aquatic habitat. The monitor will ensure contamination of aquatic or riparian habitat does not occur during such operations implanting the spill response plan described in BIO-20. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-22: Plants used in re-vegetation will consist of native riparian, wetland, and upland vegetation suitable for the area. Locally collected plant material will be used to the extent practicable. Invasive, exotic plants will be controlled to the maximum extent practicable. This measure will be implemented in all areas disturbed by activities associated with the project, unless Caltrans and the USFWS determine that it is not feasible or practical. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-23: Habitat contours will be returned to their original configuration at the end of the project activities. This measure will be implemented in all areas disturbed by activities associated with the project, unless the USFWS and Caltrans determine that it is not feasible or that modification of original contours would benefit the CRLF. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 6 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-24: The number of access routes, size of staging areas, and the total area of the activity will be limited to the minimum necessary to achieve the project goals. ESA fencing will be delineated to confine access routes and construction areas to the minimum area necessary to complete construction, and minimize the impact to habitat for the CRLF; this goal includes locating access routes and construction areas outside of aquatic habitat and riparian areas to the maximum extent practicable. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-25: To control sedimentation during and after project implementation, Caltrans will implement BMPs outlined in any authorizations or permits, issued under the authorities of the Clean Water Act that it receives for the specific project. If BMP’s are ineffective, Caltrans will attempt to remedy the situation immediately, in coordination with the USFWS. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-26: If a work site is to be temporarily dewatered by pumping, the intake will be screened with wire mesh not larger than 0.2 inch to prevent any CRLF not initially detected from entering the pump system. If CRLF are detected during, and adverse effects to CRLF cannot be avoided, construction activities will remain suspended until Caltrans and USFWS complete the appropriate level of consultation. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-27: Upon completion of construction activities, any diversions or barriers to flow will be removed in a manner that would allow flow to resume with the least disturbance to the substrate. Alteration of the stream bed will be minimized to the maximum extent possible; any imported material will be removed from the stream bed upon completion of the project. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-28: Unless approved by the USFWS, water will not be impounded in a manner that may attract CRLF. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-29: A qualified biologist will permanently remove any individuals of non-native species, such as bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana), crayfish (Pacifasticus leniusculus; Procambarus clarkia), and centrarchid fishes from the project area, to the maximum extent possible. The biologist will be responsible for ensuring his or her activities are in compliance with the California Fish and Game Code. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 7 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-30: To ensure that diseases are not conveyed between work sites by the USFWS- approved biologist, the enclosed fieldwork code of practice developed by the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force will be followed at all times. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-31: The project biologist will be onsite to monitor installation of any stream diversion dewatering process. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-32: Filter fabric must line the channel prior to the placement of diversion materials into the channel. Substrate in channel, including gravel and rocks, that is removed during project construction will be set aside, rinsed, and then returned to the channel following completion of in-channel construction. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-33: All in-channel construction including creek diversions, creek crossings, or any work in the channel bed must occur within the June 1 – November 1 work window. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-34: Project activities that may affect the flow of the creek through placement of fill, bridge construction, or diversion of the channel must comply with the 2001 NMFS Guidelines for Salmonid Passage at Stream Crossing, where applicable. The guidelines include but are not limited to: A minimum water depth (12 inch for adults and 6 inch for juveniles) at the low fish passage; A maximum hydraulic drop of 12 inch for adults and 6 inch for juveniles; Avoidance of abrupt changes in water surface and velocities; and Structures must be aligned with the stream, with no abrupt changes in flow direction upstream or downstream of the crossing. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-35: In-channel construction will not be conducted at night to afford fish quiet migratory hours. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 8 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure BIO-36: Pile driving activities must coincide with the least likely occurrence of upstream migrating adults or downstream juvenile migration (June 1-November 1). The smallest pile driver and minimum force necessary will be used to complete work within diverted areas. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-37: All water pumping or withdrawal from the creek must comply with 1997 NMFS Fish Screening Criteria for Anadromous Salmonids, where applicable, to avoid entrainment of fish. The criteria include but are not limited to the following: Screen design must provide for uniform flow distribution over the surface of the screen; Screen material openings must not exceed 3/32 inches for fry (fish capable of feeding themselves) sized salmonids and must not exceed 1/4 inch for fingerling sized salmonids; Where physically practical, the screen must be constructed at the dewatering system entrance. The screen face should be generally parallel to river flow and aligned with the adjacent bankline; and The design approach velocity must not exceed 0.33 feet per second for fry sized salmonids or 0.8 feet per second for fingerling sized salmonids. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure BIO-38: Before any activities begin on the project, the project biologist will conduct a training session for all construction personnel. At a minimum, the training will include a description of all sensitive species, including steelhead; their habitat, Critical Habitats, the project specific measures being implemented to conserve these species, and the boundaries within which the project may be accomplished. Prior to Construction San Luis Obispo ______ Measure BIO-39: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife will be allowed to leave the construction area unharmed. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 9 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Cultural Resources Measure CUL-1: Prior to the start of any work that could adversely affect any characteristics that qualify the Marsh Street Bridge (Bridge No. 49C-0298) as a historic property, the City shall ensure that the recordation measures specified below are completed. 1. The City shall take large-format (4” x 5” or larger negative size) photographs showing the Bridge #49C-0298 in context, as well as details of its historic design and engineering features. Photographs shall be processed for archival permanence in accordance with the Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) photographic specifications. Views of Bridge #49C-0298 shall include: a. Contextual views showing Bridge No. 49C-0298; b. Elevation views; c. Views of the bridge’s approaches and abutments; d. Detail views of significant engineering and design elements. 2. The City shall make a reasonable and good faith effort to locate historic construction drawings for Bridge #49C-0298. If these drawings are located, the City shall photographically reproduce plans, elevations, and selected details from these drawings in accordance with HAER photographic specifications. If they are legible in this format, reduced size (8-1/2” x 11”) copies of construction drawings may be included as pages of the report cited in Subsection 3 of this stipulation, rather than photographed and included as photographic documentation. The City shall promptly notify Caltrans if historic construction drawings for Bridge #49C-0298 cannot be located. In that event, the requirements of this paragraph shall not apply. Prior to Construction San Luis Obispo ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 10 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) 3. The City shall complete a written historical and descriptive data report for Bridge #49C-0298. This report will provide a physical description of the bridge, discuss its construction and its significance under applicable NRHP criteria, and address the historical context for its construction following the format and instructions in the National Park Service (NPS) HAER Guidelines for Preparing Written Historical and Descriptive Data. 4. Upon review and approval by Caltrans Professionally Qualified Staff (PQS) in the appropriate discipline, the City shall submit copies of the documentation prescribed in Subsection 1, 2, and 3 of this stipulation to the Caltrans Transportation Library and History Center in Sacramento and the Office of Historic Preservation in Sacramento. The City shall also offer copies of the documentation prescribed in Subsections 1, 2, and 3 of this stipulation to the San Luis Obispo County Library and the History Center of San Luis Obispo County. Measure CUL-2: The City shall install a new informative permanent metal plaque at one end of the bridge in a publicly accessible location that provides a brief history of the original bridge, its significance, the reasons for its replacement, and an explanation of how the new bridge differs from the original bridge. Caltrans PQS and the SHPO shall have 30 days to review proposed plaque information before they are produced and installed. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure CUL-3: The City shall develop and host a website in perpetuity dedicated to the Marsh Street Bridge and related topics within six (6) months of completing construction. The website shall provide content on the history and significance of the bridge, the career of significant bridge designer John B. Leonard, and the development of the concrete girder bridge typology. It shall also provide the HAER documentation stipulated in Measure CUL-1 in digital format, as well as information on the bridge replacement project. The link for the website shall be provided to the History Center of San Luis Obispo County and the San Luis Obispo County Library, so each can add it to their own websites. Once the website is complete, the City shall publicize it on its website and announce it in the local newspaper. After construction is completed San Luis Obispo ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 11 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Hazardous Waste or Materials Measure HAZ-1: An asbestos and lead-containing paint survey should be performed on the existing bridge structure prior to demolition. Prior to construction San Luis Obispo ______ Measure HAZ-2: Based on the presence of elevated lead concentrations in sediment samples collected from San Luis Obispo Creek in 2001 and 2002 (within the vicinity of the proposed excavation area) and documented fuel releases at the former Young’s Mobil (currently Cheng Park), soil generated during bridge replacement excavation activities should be properly managed. Any excess soil (or soil exhibiting field indicators of apparent contamination) should be characterized prior to offsite reuse or proper disposal where appropriate. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure HAZ-3: Groundwater extracted from construction excavations should be contained, sampled, and properly discharged under permit or disposed of. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure HAZ-4: Any undocumented underground storage tanks, wells, septic systems, or other regulated unused subsurface structures should be properly removed or abandoned in accordance with City or County permit requirements. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure HAZ-5: Any unused and removed asbestos containing pipe encountered during the construction activities should be properly managed and disposed of at an appropriate disposal facility. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure HAZ-6: The contractor should prepare a site-specific health and safety plan to address potential contaminants of concern including lead and petroleum hydrocarbons. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Traffic and Transportation/Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities Measure TRAF-1: Prior to the start of construction, provide a portable changeable message sign (PCMS) at the project area announcing the future closure of the road segment. At the start of construction, move the PCMS several intersections west of the project area as advance warning to the closure and detour. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 12 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure TRAF-2: Implement a media notice campaign and notify local businesses, City services, and emergency response agencies of the closure and anticipated schedule of construction. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-3: At the US-101 freeway exit to Marsh Street, provide advanced warning of a road closure and detour ahead. Additionally, install “Road Closed” signage within the adjacent one to two intersections of the Project Area. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-4: Provide a preferred detour route for eastbound/northbound traffic utilizing Chorro Street and Mill Street. Use detour and construction signage for the entire length of the route to guide drivers who are unfamiliar with the downtown network. Include detour signage on Osos Street as well for drivers who have bypassed the preferred route. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-5: Include notification that businesses remain open during construction and that only business traffic can access Marsh Street just east of the Osos Street intersection (#11). During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-6: Adjust signal timing at the five intersections and approaches identified below. Mill Street/Santa Rosa Street Monterey Street/Osos Street Monterey Street/Santa Rosa Street Higuera Stret/Osos Street Marsh Stret/Osos Street During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-7: Temporarily prohibit parking on eastbound Mill Street at Santa Rosa (#1), within 160 feet of the intersection, and northbound Osos Street at Higuera Street (#7) and Monterey Street (#3). During construction Resident Engineer ______ Measure TRAF-8: Modify pavement striping at northbound Osos Street at Monterey Street (#3), as well as Marsh Street and Osos Street as provided in the Traffic Management Plan. During construction Resident Engineer ______
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project – Environmental Commitment Record Page 13 Task and Brief Description Timing Responsible Party Completed Initials Notes (optional) Measure TRAF-9: Monitor daily traffic volumes of Buchon Street consistent with the active Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. As needed, implement additional detour signage to direct traffic away from the neighborhood. During construction Resident Engineer ______ Utilities/Emergency Services Measure UTL/ES-1: To minimize interruptions of service to utility customers, a series of coordination letters shall be sent to all impacted utility companies to identify utilities within the proposed project. Letters will indicate where utility relocations are to be performed and the required time to relocate them. Design plans will be sent to involved utility owners during the project development phase. Meetings will be arranged with utility companies as necessary to discuss impacts and relocation plans. Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure UTL/ES-2: A Transportation Management Plan shall be prepared. It will ensure that there is appropriately designed detour routes for emergency services onto all roads involved in the proposed project. The plan will be provided to emergency public services (including fire, police, and hospital facilities). Prior to construction (prepare) / During construction (implement) San Luis Obispo / Resident Engineer ______ Measure UTL/ES-3: Emergency public services, local law enforcement agencies, and local businesses will be notified of the proposed project the planned closure of Marsh Street during construction. This notice shall occur at least one month before construction begins. Prior to construction San Luis Obispo ______
Appendix C Section 7 Consultation
Source: ESRI 2013; Dokken Engineering 3/12/2015; Created By: carolynndV:\1929_Marsh_Street\Bio\NOAA_fishCH_Project_area.mxdMarsh StreetSan Luis Obispo Creek
FIGURE 1Project Effects to Steelhead Critical Habitat Federal Project No. BRLS-5016 (050)Marsh Street Bridge Replacement ProjectCity of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California0255075100FeetI
Project Are a
Propo sed ESA Fe nceSteelhead Critical Ha bitat (0.11 acres)Pr oject Effec ts to Stee lhead Cr itical Ha bitat
Sa n L uis Obisp o C re ek-Temporary (0 .05 acres)Sh aded Rive ring Aqu atic Co ver, Pe rman ent(<0.01 acres) Sh aded Rive ring Aqu atic Co ver, Temporary (<0.01 acres)
!
Yellow arrow is the cobble filled
concrete slug above the sewer
encasement. It is 29 feet upstream of
the orange arrow which is the bottom of
the riffle (and the next grade break).
There is a -8% grade drop from the
yellow arrow to the orange arrow.
The orange arrow is the bottom
of the riffle downstream of the
cobble filled concrete slug and
the sewer encasement. It is about
88 feet upstream of a bedrock
outcropping (green arrow) that
serves as the next grade control
structure downstream of the
bridge. There is a -2% grade
from the bottom of the riffle
(orange arrow) to the exposed
bedrock section (green arrow).
Green arrow is the
sewer encasement.
Yellow arrow is the cobble
filled concrete slug which is
102 ft downstream of the
rockweir mitigation
structure (red arrow). There
is a 1.5% grade increase
from the yellow arrow to
the red arrow.
Appendix D Cultural Resources Coordination
““Provide a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system
to enhance California’s economy and livability”
S T A T E O F C A L I F O R N I A ------- S TATE TRANSPORTATION AGENCY EDMUND G. BROWN Jr., Governor
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1120 N STREET P.O. BOX 942873, MS-27
SACRAMENTO, CA 94273-0001
PHONE (916) 653-6187
FAX (916) 653-7757
TTY 711
www.dot.ca.gov
Serious drought
Conserve Water!!
November 14, 2016
Julianne Polanco 05-SLO-LSR
State Historic Preservation Officer Marsh Street Bridge
Office of Historic Preservation Replacement Project
1725 23rd Street, Suite 100 BRLS-5016(050)
Sacramento, CA 95816 FHWA# 2015_0925_001
Attention: Natalie Lindquist
RE: Draft Memorandum of Agreement for the Proposed Marsh Street Bridge Replacement
Project, San Luis Obispo, California
Dear Ms. Polanco:
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is consulting with the State Historic
Preservation Officer (SHPO) regarding the Draft Memorandum of Agreement between the
California Department of Transportation and the California State Historic Preservation Officer
Regarding the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project (Bridge #49C-0298), City of San Luis
Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California (MOA) for the above referenced undertaking which is
being implemented by the City of San Luis Obispo. Caltrans is continuing consultation to resolve
adverse effects to historic properties as part of its NEPA assignment of federal responsibilities by
the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), effective October 1, 2012 and pursuant to 23 USC
327.
The City of San Luis Obispo, in cooperation with Caltrans, is proposing to replace the Marsh Street
Bridge (49C-0298) over San Luis Obispo Creek, a property previously determined eligible for the
National Register of Historic Places (National Register) under Criterion C in the area of
engineering. The bridge will be replaced with a single span post-tensioned slab bridge. The
abutments would be located at the same location as the existing abutments. The new bridge would
be 69 feet wide and 40 feet long. The skew at the abutments would be 24 degrees. Removal of the
existing wing-walls would be required.
In consultation with the SHPO, Caltrans determined that the proposed project would have an
adverse effect to the National Register eligible Marsh Street Bridge. Caltrans provided a Draft
MOA to the SHPO which determined that adverse effects to the bridge would be resolved through
Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) documentation and an informative metal plaque
detailing the history of the original bridge, its significance, reason for its replacement, and
explanation of the architectural differences between the original and replacement structure. Caltrans
received the SHPO’s September 1, 2016 dated letter which recommended that Caltrans consult with
Ms. Julianne Polanco
November 14, 2016
Page 2
“Provide a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system
to enhance California’s economy and livability”
local parties to consider other avenues of meaningful mitigation, beyond the proposed HAER
documentation and the informative plaque.
The purpose of this letter is to provide details on previous consultation with local parties, previously
proposed adverse effect resolutions, and proposed new adverse effect resolutions. During
identification and evaluation efforts conducted for the project between 2012 and 2013, the San Luis
Obispo Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC), History Center of San Luis Obispo County, San Luis
Obispo County Genealogical Society, City of San Luis Obispo County Library, Cal Poly San Luis
Obispo Robert E. Kennedy Library, and City of San Luis Obispo Community Development
Department were consulted in regards to the undertaking. With the exception of the CHC, none of
the above listed organizations expressed concern regarding replacement of the bridge. During a
September 24, 2012 public CHC meeting in which the undertaking was presented, the CHC
discussed the design aspects of the new bridge in general and expressed a desire for the new bridge
to reflect the historical context of the original bridge and to keep the scale intact. Ultimately, the
CHC granted concurrence for the replacement of the Marsh Street Bridge and recommended that
the historic bridge railing be replicated and a plaque be installed to commemorate the significance
of the original bridge.
As a result of this CHC meeting, the design for the new bridge was revised to accommodate the
CHC’s recommendation. The original railings cannot be replicated exactly due to their height not
meeting current design standards; however, the proposed railings would reference the historic
bridge railings without duplicating them exactly. The low, wide piers at the ends of each new
railing would be similar to those present on the historic railings: they would have protruding caps
and bases and recessed rectangular panels. The railings themselves would also have protruding caps
and bases, but they would be differentiated from the original railing through a different window
style. While the windows on the original bridge are ovals with punched openings, the windows on
the new bridge would be arches with chamfered openings. The new railings would also be taller
than the historic railings to meet current code requirements. This strategy of referencing, but not
mimicking the original design exactly, satisfies the CHC’s recommendation while meeting current
code and without creating a situation in which the new railings would be mistaken for the original
railings. While the design elements of the proposed bridge are not in themselves mitigation, these
elements were adopted, in consultation with local historic groups, so that the replacement bridge
could restore and convey the historic feel of the original 1909 bridge. This is particularly important
as a section of the historic railing, one of the most visible characteristics of the historic bridge, has
been replaced by modern k-rail after extensive deterioration and a vehicular collision.
Mitigation measures which would resolve the adverse effect of removing the historic property were
proposed in the Draft MOA. As previously mentioned, the Draft MOA stipulated that a HAER
would be completed to fully document all the characteristics that qualify the Marsh Street Bridge as
a historic property. In addition, the Draft MOA also stipulated that the City of San Luis Obispo
shall install a new informative permanent metal plaque at one end of the bridge in a publicly
accessible location that provides a brief history of the original bridge, its significance, the reasons
for its replacement, and an explanation of how the new bridge differs from the original bridge.
Ms. Julianne Polanco
November 14, 2016
Page 3
“Provide a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system
to enhance California’s economy and livability”
In response to the SHPO’s recommendation that other avenues of meaningful mitigation be
incorporated into the project, Caltrans has revised the Draft MOA to include Stipulation II.C. This
stipulation states that the City of San Luis Obispo will develop and host a website dedicated to the
Marsh Street Bridge and related topics within six (6) months of completing construction. The
website shall provide content on the history and significance of the bridge, the career of significant
bridge designer John B. Leonard, and the development of the concrete girder bridge typology. It
shall also include the HAER documentation stipulated in II.A.1 – II.A.4 in digital format, as well as
information on the bridge replacement project. The link for the website shall be provided to the
History Center of San Luis Obispo County and the San Luis Obispo County Library, so each can
add it to their own websites. Once the website is complete, the City of San Luis Obispo shall
publicize it on its website and announce it in the local newspaper. This will allow the website to
become more widely available as an informative, commemorative, and educational resource
dedicated to one of San Luis Obispo’s most important historic resources.
The enclosed MOA serves to supplant the previously provided MOA. Caltrans requests your
agreement with the revised stipulations to resolve adverse effects to the Marsh Street Bridge,
pursuant to the January 2014 First Amended Programmatic Agreement Among the Federal
Highway Administration, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the California State
Historic Preservation Officer, and the California Department of Transportation Regarding
Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act Stipulation XI.A.
Caltrans looks forward to the continued consultation on the drafting and execution of this MOA. If
you have any questions or comments regarding this notification, please contact me at (916) 653-
1029 or Jill.Hupp@dot.ca.gov, or Erin Dwyer at 530-741-4538 or Kelda.Wilson@dot.ca.gov.
Thank you for your continued assistance with this undertaking.
Sincerely,
Jill Hupp, Chief,
Built Environment Preservation Services Branch
Cultural Studies Office
Caltrans Division of Environmental Analysis
c: JHupp, KWilson– D5
Enclosure:
Draft MOA for the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project
STATE OF CALIFORNIA – THE NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY EDMUND G. BROWN, JR., Governor
OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 1725 23rd Street, Suite 100 SACRAMENTO, CA 95816-7100 (916) 445-7000 Fax: (916) 445-7053 calshpo@parks.ca.gov
www.ohp.parks.ca.gov
September 1, 2016 VIA EMAIL In reply refer to: FHWA_2015_0925_001 Kelly Hobbs, Chief Section 106 Coordination Branch Caltrans Division of Environmental Analysis 1120 N Street, PO Box 942873, MS-27 Sacramento, CA 94273-0001 Subject: Finding of Adverse Effect for the Proposed Marsh Street Bridge Project, San Luis Obispo, CA Dear Mr. Hobbs: Thank you for consulting with me about the subject undertaking in accordance with the January 1, 2014 First Amended Programmatic Agreement Among the Federal Highway
Administration, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the California State
Historic Preservation Officer, and the California Department of Transportation
Regarding Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as it
Pertains to the Administration of the Federal-Aid Highway Program in California (PA). The City of San Luis Obispo, in cooperation with Caltrans, is proposing to replace the Marsh Street Bridge (49C-0298) over San Luis Obispo Creek, a property previously determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge will be replaced with a single span post-tensioned slab bridge. The abutments would be located at the same locations as the existing abutments. The new bridge would be 69 feet wide and 40 feet long. The skew at the abutments would be 24 degrees. Removal of the existing wingwalls would be required. Further description of the project and are of potential effect can be found on pages 6-8 of the Finding of Adverse Effect. Caltrans has found pursuant to Stipulation X. of the PA that the proposed project will result in an adverse effect to historic properties. Based on my review of the submitted documentation, the SHPO has no objection to these findings. Based on my review of the draft Memorandum of Agreement for the project I recommend that Caltrans consult with local parties to consider other avenues of meaningful mitigation, beyond HAER documentation and an interpretive plaque, for the project. In addition, recently I have received a large number of bridge replacement projects. Does Caltrans have an overall plan that looks at bridges holistically from a preservation
Mr. Hobbs FHWA_2015_0925_001 September 1, 2016 Page 2 of 2 standpoint? Are there any plans for Caltrans to look at its inventory of bridges and consider how preservation plays into bridge replacements with respect to bridge category, rareness, etc. Under both the National Historic Preservation Act and 5024 the Federal Highway Administration and Caltrans have an obligation to manage historic resources, not just replace them. Thank you for considering historic properties during project planning. If you have any questions, please contact Natalie Lindquist of my staff at (916) 445-7014 with e-mail at natalie.lindquist@parks.ca.gov. Sincerely,
Julianne Polanco State Historic Preservation Officer
STATE OF CALIFORNIA – THE NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY EDMUND G. BROWN, JR., Governor
OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 1725 23rd Street, Suite 100 SACRAMENTO, CA 95816-7100 (916) 445-7000 Fax: (916) 445-7053 calshpo@parks.ca.gov
www.ohp.parks.ca.gov
October 29, 2015 Reply To: FHWA_2015_0925_001 Randy LaVack, Chief Environmental Stewardship Branch Caltrans District 5 50 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-5415 Re: Determination of Eligibility for the Proposed Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project, San Luis Obispo County, CA Dear Mr. LaVack: Thank you for consulting with me about the subject undertaking in accordance with the January 1, 2014 First Amended Programmatic Agreement Among the Federal Highway Administration,
the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the California State Historic Preservation Officer,
and the California Department of Transportation Regarding Compliance with Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act, as it Pertains to the Administration of the Federal-Aid
Highway Program in California (PA). In conjunction with Caltrans and FHWA, the City of San Luis Obispo proposes to replace the existing Marsh Street Bridge (49C-0298) over San Luis Obispo Creek. The existing bridge will be replaced with a single span post-tension slab bridge. A full description and depiction of the area of potential effect (APE) can be found on page 1-2 and Attachment 1 of the Historic Property Survey Report. Consultation and identification efforts for the project resulted in the identification of two properties within the APE. The Marsh Street Bridge (51-C0132) was previously determined to be not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Caltrans also determined that 1043 Marsh Street is not eligible for the NRHP. Based on my review of the submitted documentation I concur. Thank you for considering historic properties during project planning. If you have any questions, please contact Natalie Lindquist of my staff at (916) 445-7014 or email at natalie.lindquist@parks.ca.gov or Jessica Tudor of my staff at (916)445-7016 or jessica.tudor@parks.ca.gov. Sincerely,
Julianne Polanco State Historic Preservation Officer
Appendix E Traffic Management Plan
Page 1
110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200 Folsom, CA 95630 Tele: 916 858-0642 Fax: 916 858-0643
MEMORANDUM
Company: City of San Luis Obispo
Attention: Michael McGuire, Project Manager
From: Megan Carter, Project Engineer
Nathan Donnelly, Project Manager
Subject: Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Traffic Management Plan
Date: November 18, 2014
This memorandum presents the Traffic Management Plan for the closure of Marsh Street
between Osos Street and Santa Rosa Street in downtown San Luis Obispo for the construction
of the Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project. Construction includes the demolition of the
existing bridge, reconstruction of the replacement bridge, construction of a new retaining wall
at the northern corner, removal and replacement of a sewer siphon under San Luis Obispo
Creek, and reconstruction of a Mission Style sidewalk on both sides of the roadway. Closure of
this road segment will occur for the duration of demolition and reconstruction, which is
anticipated to take one year. Temporary impacts to San Luis Obispo Creek will also be isolated
to this time period.
Traffic Analysis Summary
A traffic analysis of the temporary impacts in downtown San Luis Obispo was prepared by
Central Coast Transportation Consulting and is detailed in the enclosed Technical
Memorandum and Appendix. The traffic analysis included evaluation of the following fourteen
intersections, as shown on the Traffic Management Plan Exhibit:
1. Mill Street/Santa Rosa Street 8. Higuera Street/Santa Rosa Street
2. Palm Street/Chorro Street 9. Higuera Street/Johnson Avenue
3. Monterey Street/ Osos Street 10. Marsh Street/Chorro Street
4. Monterey Street/Santa Rosa Street 11. Marsh Street/Osos Street
5. Monterey Street/Johnson Avenue 12. Marsh Street/Santa Rosa Street
6. Higuera Street/Chorro Street 13. Marsh Street/Johnson Avenue
7. Higuera Street/Osos Street 14. Pacific Street/Osos Street
The intersections were evaluated under the following scenarios, during the PM peak period:
1. Existing conditions using 2012 traffic counts
2. Worst case shift assuming no advance notice to drivers
3. Shift assuming advanced notice
4. Shift assuming advanced notice and signal timing changes
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110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200 Folsom, CA 95630 Tele: 916 858-0642 Fax: 916 858-0643
The results of the analysis are presented in two tables, which represent and compare the
impacts to traffic flow and function at the fourteen intersections due to the temporary Marsh
Street road closure. Table 1 shows the PM Peak Hour Levels of Service (LOS), measured by
vehicle delay time while stopped at the intersection in seconds per vehicle. The City of San
Luis Obispo’s Circulation Element policy defines the maximum acceptable delay in the
downtown area as a LOS E, or 40 to 60 seconds of delay, which may cause drivers to
frequently wait through more than one cycle of a traffic signal.
Scenario 2 results in the worst traffic congestion delays. All drivers who approach the Marsh
Street and Osos Street intersection are detoured around the road closure without advanced
warning to take alternate routes through downtown. The LOS at Intersections 3, 4, and 7
degrade to F with a delay time ranging from 87 to 97 sec/veh during the PM Peak Hour. This
represents an unacceptable temporary impact to the traffic condition according to the City’s
Circulation Element policy.
With advanced warning on the major approaches to the Project Area and a planned detour
route using Chorro Street to guide eastbound traffic around the work area, as proposed in
Scenario 3, an acceptable LOS at all study intersections was achieved. However, even with
advanced warning several key movements at the study intersections have queue lengths that
spill back into other movements. Table 2 shows the PM Peak Hour 95th Percentile Queue at the
key movements negatively affected by the closure. They include Intersections 1, 3, 4, 7, and
11, which are shown in detail on the Traffic Management Plan Exhibit.
While a LOS E is acceptable, the proposed Traffic Management Mitigation endeavors to
maintain close to existing levels of flow and function to minimize the construction impacts on
residents and businesses in the downtown. Therefore, in addition to advance warning signs and
a detour route, Scenario 4 includes minor adjustments to signal timing, parking restrictions,
and limited restriping to mitigate the queues to acceptable levels. The Traffic Management
Plan Exhibit shows where the signal changes and restriping would be most effective. The LOS
achieved by the efforts proposed in Scenario 4 is consistent with existing LOS in many of the
study intersections.
Traffic Management Mitigation
To achieve the results of the traffic analysis study consistent with Scenario 4, the following
actions are proposed to mitigate congestion in downtown San Luis Obispo caused by the
closure of Marsh Street between Osos Street and Santa Rosa Street for the construction of the
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project.
1. Prior to the start of construction, provide a portable changeable message sign (PCMS)
at the Project Area announcing the future closure of the road segment.
a. At the start of construction, move the PCMS several intersections west of the
Project Area as advance warning to the closure and detour.
2. Implement a media notice campaign and notify local businesses, City services, and
emergency response agencies of the closure and anticipated schedule of construction.
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110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200 Folsom, CA 95630 Tele: 916 858-0642 Fax: 916 858-0643
3. At the US-101 freeway exit to Marsh Street, provide advanced warning of a road
closure and detour ahead. Additionally, install “Road Closed” signage within the
adjacent one to two intersections of the Project Area.
4. Provide a preferred detour route for eastbound/northbound traffic utilizing Chorro
Street and Mill Street. Use detour and construction signage for the entire length of the
route to guide drivers who are unfamiliar with the downtown network. Include detour
signage on Osos Street as well for drivers who have bypassed the preferred route.
5. Include notification that businesses remain open during construction and that only
business traffic can access Marsh Street just east of the Osos Street intersection (#11).
6. Adjust signal timing at the five intersections and approaches identified below.
Intersection Approach With
Additional Green Time
Approach With
Reduced Green Time
1. Mill Street/Santa Rosa Street Eastbound Northbound
3. Monterey Street/Osos Street Northbound Eastbound
4. Monterey Street/Santa Rosa Street Eastbound Northbound
7. Higuera Street/Osos Street Northbound Westbound
11. Marsh Street/ Osos Street Eastbound Northbound
7. Temporarily prohibit parking on:
a. Eastbound Mill Street at Santa Rosa (#1), within 160 feet of the intersection,
and
b. Northbound Osos Street between Higuera Street (#7) and Monterey Street (#3).
8. Restripe northbound Osos Street at Monterey Street (#3) to use a combined left turn
and through lane with a dedicated right turn lane. Provide intersection striping to guide
northbound through traffic. An alternative striping detail is shown in the Intersection 3
inset on the Traffic Management Plan Exhibit
a. The detour will cause an increase in the right turn movement and the existing
storage of the through-right lane is insufficient for the queue.
9. Restripe and delineate the traffic handling at Marsh Street and Osos Street (#11) to
restrict access to Project Area. Limit access to the west side of the bridge for business
traffic only.
a. Since Marsh Street is currently a one-way street, convert the section of roadway
west of the bridge (approx. 160 ft from intersection to construction limits) to
two-way traffic for business access.
b. Install a temporary traffic signal for the westbound leg and modify the existing
signal timing to incorporate the new movements.
c. Provide perpendicular parking spaces along the north side of the road segment
for business parking.
d. Maintain access for the drive through carwash and bank parking lots.
10. Monitor daily traffic volumes on Buchon Street consistent with the active
Neighborhood Traffic Management program.
a. As needed, implement additional detour signage to direct traffic away from the
neighborhood.
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110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200 Folsom, CA 95630 Tele: 916 858-0642 Fax: 916 858-0643
11. Optional: temporarily prohibit pedestrian crossings on the north leg of Intersections 10
and 11 to improve signal timing.
a. These crossings conflict with eastbound left turn movements for the beginning
of the preferred and alternate detour routes.
In addition to the above measures, the daily traffic conditions should be continually monitored
for specific situations not predicted by the City’s Travel Demand Model and the Technical
Memorandum’s analysis results. The Traffic Management Plan should be amended, as
necessary, to address specific problem areas.
Enclosed:
Traffic Management Plan Exhibit
Technical Memorandum: Marsh Street Bridge Replacement-Traffic Impacts
Technical Memorandum: Appendix
cc: [File – 1929\480]
J:\1929_Marsh_St_BR\400\480_traffic\1929_TrafficMgmtPlanMemo.docx
Appendix F List of Acronyms
ACM Asbestos Containing Material
AUL Activity and Use Limitation
BMPs Best Management Practices
BSA Biological Study Area
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CARB California Air Resources Board
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CESA California Endangered Species Act
CHC Cultural Heritage Commission
CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database
CNPS California Native Plant Society
CO carbon monoxide
CRHR California Register of Historic Resources
CRLF California Red-Legged Frog
CWA Clean Water Act
DPS Distinct Population Segment
EIR Environmental Impact Report
ESA Environmentally Sensitive Areas
FESA Federal Endangered Species Act
FYLF Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog
H2S Hydrogen Sulfide
HAER Historic American Engineering Record
LOS level of service
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
MOA Memorandum of Agreement
MTBE Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NES Natural Environment Study
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NO2 nitrogen dioxide
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
O3 ozone
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Act
PBA Programmatic Biological Opinion
PCE Primary Constituent Element
PDT Project Development Team
PM particulate matter
PM2.5 particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter
PM10 particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter
PS&E Plans, Specifications, and Estimates
PQS Professionally Qualified Staff
REC Recognized Environmental Condition
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer
SO2 sulfur dioxide
SWPPP Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
USFWS United State Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS United States Geologic Survey
VOC Volatile Organic Compound
Appendix G List of Technical Studies
These reports are available at the City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Department Offices.
Technical Study
Biological Assessment for California Red-Legged Frog and Central
Coast Steelhead
Finding of Adverse Effect Report and Memorandum of Agreement
Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment
Historical Property Survey Report
Natural Environment Study
Construction Noise Technical Memorandum
Traffic Impact Memorandum
Appendix H Public Notice of Availability
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401-3218, 805.781.7200, slocity.org
February 12, 2016
Dear Property Owners and Stakeholders,
You are invited to attend a public information meeting about the Marsh Street Bridge
Replacement, hosted by the City on March 2, 2016 from 5pm to 6:30pm. The meeting
will be held at the City/County Library Conference Room located at 995 Palm Street, San
Luis Obispo, CA 93401. City staff will be available to discuss the project and answer any
questions. This meeting will be an open house format and no presentation is planned.
Enclosed is the Notice of Availability of the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project. We would like to notify you of the 45 day public
review period for this Draft Environmental Impact Report and would welcome you to
review the report and provide comments on the proposed project. Written comments can be
submitted anytime during the 45 day period which begins on February 12, 2016 and ends on
March 28, 2016.
The Draft Environmental Impact Report is available for review at the San Luis Obispo
Public Works Department (919 Palm Street) or at the San Luis Obispo Public Library (995
Palm Street). If you have any questions about the project or the public meeting, please feel
free to give me a call, at 805-783-7716.
Sincerely,
Mike McGuire, PE
City of San Luis Obispo
Project Manager/Engineer III
PUBLIC NOTICE
Marsh Street Bridge Replacement Project
Notice of Availability of Environmental Impact Report
Notice of Intent to Adopt a Final Environmental Impact Report
The City of San Luis Obispo, in cooperation with the California Department
of Transportation (Caltrans) proposes to replace the Marsh Street Bridge
between Osos St. and Santa Rosa St. over the San Luis Obispo Creek. Marsh
Street is a one-way major arterial connector from U.S. 101 through
downtown San Luis Obispo serving local, commercial, commuter,
pedestrian, and bicycle traffic. The proposed project would replace the
existing bridge with a single span post-tensioned slab bridge. The new
proposed bridge would clear span the San Luis Obispo Creek and no
permanent impacts to the channel are anticipated. This section of Marsh
Street is expected to be fully closed during construction.
WHAT IS BEING PLANNED?
WHY THIS PUBLIC NOTICE?
The City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Department has prepared an Environmental Impact Report, which examines
the potential environmental impacts for the proposed Marsh Street Bridge Replacement. This document describes the
proposed project, what alternatives have been considered, how the existing environment could be affected, and any
proposed measures to avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate environmental impacts.
WHAT’S AVAILABLE?
WHERE DO YOU COME IN?
CONTACT
Do you have any comments about the Environmental Impact Report? Do you disagree with the findings and
conclusions of the environmental document? If you would like to make comments, please submit your comments no
later than March 28, 2016 to the contact information provided below.
If you need more information or would like to submit comments, please contact Mike McGuire at the City of San Luis
Obispo Public Works Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, by phone at 805-781-7200 or by
email to mmguire@slocity.org
A draft Environmental Impact Report has been prepared and is available for public review beginning February 12,
2016, through March 28, 2016. During the public review period, a copy of the draft Environmental Impact Report
will be available at:
The City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Department located at 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA
93401; and
The City of San Luis Obispo Public Library, located at 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
WHEN IS THE PUBLIC MEETING?
The City of San Luis Obispo will be hosting a public meeting on March 2, 2016, where members of the public
interested in the project can learn more about the proposed bridge replacement and submit written comments which
will be included, with responses, in the Final Environmental Impact Report. After public review of the environmental
document has concluded, the City Council will consider adoption of the Environmental Impact Report at a public
hearing.
PUBLIC MEETING: WHERE AND WHEN
Date: March 2, 2016
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Place: San Luis Obispo City/County Library Conference Room
995 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Appendix I Public Comments and City of San
Luis Obispo Responses
Page 1
Comment 1.
Bart Devaney (received at the Public Meeting, 03/02/16)
Response 1.
Response A:
Thank you for your comments; they have been included in the final environmental document. The City of
San Luis Obispo is committed to ensuring that impacts to local businesses along Marsh Street are
minimized to the greatest extent feasible. Signage stating that businesses along Marsh Street will
continue to remain open to the public and in operation are already planned to be installed at key locations
along Marsh Street and adjacent intersections. Final decisions on the content of signage and the locations
those signs will be placed prior to and during construction will be made in coordination with local
business owners during Final Design of the project.
A
Page 2
Comment 2.
Rana Ghana (received at the Public Meeting, 03/02/16)
Response 2.
Note: The above sketch was provided by Ms. Ghana at the public meeting on March 3, 2016 and was
intended to provide the City with a possible aesthetic design for the new bridge structure.
Thank you for your comments; they have been included in the final environmental document. The City
of San Luis Obispo appreciates the time you spent coming up with aesthetic design concepts for the new
bridge structure. As part of the environmental process, the City of San Luis Obispo has been in
coordination with Caltrans and the State Historic Preservation Officer to document this project’s impacts
on the existing historic Marsh Street Bridge. As part of that coordination effort, the City has already
committed to providing a new bridge structure that will incorporate many of the aesthetic features from
the original historic bridge in order to reduce environmental impacts associated with removing a historic
bridge. These features include bridge railing, lighting features, and other aesthetic treatments (see figure
2.1-1 of the Final EIR). As a result the City cannot consider a different aesthetic design for the new
bridge such as the one provided in your sketch above.
Page 3
Comment 3.
State Clearinghouse (received via mail, 04/03/16)
Response 3.
Thank you for your comments; they have been included in the final environmental document.