HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/02/1997, 3 - HEARING OF PUBLIC TESTIMONY AND POTENTIALLY TAKING ACTION REGARDING THE CAL POLY PARKING GARAGE council ° ;°= _9/,I"
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C I TY OF SAN LU 13 O B I S P o
FROM: John Dunn,City Administrative Offi�
SUBJECT: Hearing of Public Testimony and Potentially Taking Action Regarding the Cal Poly
Parking Garage
CAO RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council, after hearing testimony, decide whether it would be
appropriate to take a position.
DISCUSSION
At the November 4'b City Council meeting, the City Council heard a request from a representative
of the Alta Vista Neighborhood Association, who asked that the matter of the Cal Poly Parking
Garage be placed on the agenda of November 18th. However, due to the full schedule on that date,
the Council placed the matter on the December 2'City Council agenda.
The Council asked that this matter be placed on the agenda to hear comments of the neighbors and
others regarding this proposed project; the City Council did not ask for the preparation of a full staff
report. Therefore, this memo will not deal with the substantive aspects of the parking structure
project itself, as that subject has been dealt with in the Cal Poly Parking Structure EIR and other
Cal Poly documents.
The City's historical role in this project was participating in and approval of the Development and
subsequent Operating Agreements for the Performing Arts Center as follows: The three-party
Development Agreement was approved by the City Council and executed by former Mayor Ron
Dunin on December 5, 1989 and, in part, states in Section 6.01,"University shall develop a parking
management program providing the public access to campus parking facilities for events scheduled
at the Performing Arts Center."
The follow-up Operating Agreement was approved by the City Council and executed by former
Mayor Peg Pinard on July 22, 1993, and states in Section 7.01, " Parking Manuement Program.
University shall develop a parking management program providing public access to campus
parking facilities for events scheduled at the Center. The University agrees that providing
adequate, though nonexclusive parking is a part of its responsibility."
The City's position was essentially one of following upon the City-commissioned Halle, Goodhue,
Haisley & Barker Feasibility Study of 1985, which rejected a downtown location for the
Performing Arts Center, in part, because it would have been near impossible to build sufficient
adjacent parking to support the Center, and which recommended a three-party partnership in order
to have the combined capacity to build the Center. The City's interest has consistently been that the
Performing Arts Center was being built for the benefit of the community and its citizens and that
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Council Agenda Report-Cal Poly Parking Garage
Page 2
the Center should be accessible and convenient to its users. The City has never been asked to be a
partner in the parking garage, though adjacent parking is normally a part of Center development, as
Cal Poly had stated that they would assume responsibility for Center parking.
The City has never been asked by Cal Poly to take a position on this project, probably based on the
recognition that the project is a Cal Poly project and the California State University system does not
need any other approvals for this project. The City has no authority or jurisdiction in this area,
except as are available to all members of the public. The City recently received an invitation to
comment on the EIR, similar to other agencies and individuals, which was presented by staff
members of the Community Development Department at the "Community Forum" sponsored by
Cal Poly on October 15, 1997.
Essentially three questions have been raised by the Alta Vista Neighborhood Association : (1)
whether the garage is needed at all, (2)if the garage is to be built in an area generally nearby the
Performing Arts Center, shouldn't it be along Grand Avenue rather than on the down bill "tennis
court" site, and (3) shouldn't the parking garage be placed somewhere else on campus to handle
other Cal Poly parking needs.
In this issue there are at least several perspectives:
1. Neighborhood
2. Cal Poly'
3. City—(a)Determine City's long-term public good; (b)Political jurisdiction for and supporter of
City's neighborhoods; (c)Partner in and financial contributor to the Performing Arts Center
4. Performing Arts Center(operations staff
5. Foundation for the Performing Arts Center(past and future fundraising responsibility)
The proposed Cal Poly Parking Structure has been identified by some as the "Performing Arts
Center Parking Garage." From Cal Poly's perspective, it is a true multi-purpose parking structure
as it will serve these users:
Daytime
1. Students, faculty, staff and visiting public
2. Recreation Center(to a limited degree)
Nighttime
1. Recreation Center
2. Mott Gym
3. Performing Arts Center
(Above three are the major nighttime users-two below are lesser users)
4. Cal Poly Theater
5. Chumash Auditorium
Cal Poly has been asked to provide a listing of the proposed mitigation measures to reduce the
impact of the parking structure on the adjacent neighborhood. This will be provided to the City
Council and be made available to the public.
3.2
Council Agenda Report-Cal Poly Parking Garage
Page 3
It is important to emphasize the city's role in regard to this matter. It is one of appealing to a sister
public agency and of asking them for their consideration of our viewpoint. No inference should be
made that the City has had or will have any legal authority in relation to the ultimate decision to
proceed;that is the sole province of the California State University system(State of California). By
analogy,if we had received a letter from Cal Poly on the Marsh/Chorro garage project,we certainly
would have considered it, as we did all other letters and oral testimony,but the final decision would
still have to be that of the City Council.
There is a general perception by City staff of the following:
1. The successful operation of the Performing Arts Center is related to the availability of nearby
and convenient parking, and there have been complaints — particularly by the elderly,
handicapped and musicians with instruments to carry— about the distance they must park from
the Center.
2. There is growth pressure on most, if not all, campuses of the CSU system; Cal Poly is expected
to have an enrollment growth in the years ahead.
3. This particular part of the Cal Poly campus is in high demand and heavily impacted by parking
because of student-faculty-staff-public parking needs and the adjacency of student housing,
Recreation Center, Mott Gym, Performing Arts Center, Cal Poly Theater and Chumash
Auditorium.
4. The City, in the operation of SLO Transit, and Cal Poly, in underwriting Cal Poly transit fares,
have created a system with almost 60% Cal Poly ridership. The transit system is perhaps the
single largest factor in mitigating against an even greater traffic impact on SLO streets and
parking impact on the Cal Poly campus and nearby areas. Both the City and Cal Poly have
recently given a great deal of attention to the matter of retaining previous and mutually-
beneficial service levels.
5. The City has consistently taken the position over the years that Cal Poly should do what it can
to reduce single-occupant cars from arriving on campus, and to encourage "alternative
transportation" measures of improved transit service, bike paths, pedestrian routes, and
transportation-demand-management measures.
6. If a parking structure is to be built in this general area,it is to the City's and the neighborhood's
advantage to reduce the height as much as possible,to reduce visual,noise and lighting impacts
on surrounding areas.
Attached is a copy of the surnmary of the Cal Poly Parking Structure EIR and other documents that
relate to this issue.
3 -3
Council Agenda Report-Cal Poly Parldng Garage
Page 4
Outions Available to the Council
1. Take a position against the garage,or its proposed location.
2. Take a position for the garage,and its proposed location.
3. Take the position that this is a Cal Poly project, and that the City has appropriately offered
comments and input during the EIR process.
4. Continue the matter and(a)request additional analysis/information from Cal Poly or City staff;
and/or (b) instruct City staff to review the EIR for potential additional mitigation measures
which should be applied to the project (though, presumably, the two parties to the Settlement
Agreement — Cal Poly and the Alta Vista Neighborhood Association — have thoroughly
explored this area).
3-jL
2.0 SUMMARY
This section has been prepared in accordance with the State CEOA Guidelines, and is
divided into two components. The first summarizes the characteristics of the proposed project,
and summarizes any areas of controversy known-to the lead agency (California State University).
The second section identifies the environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and residual
impacts associated with the implementation of the project and cumulative development.
2.1 PROJECT SYNOPSIS
2.1.1 Project Proponent
The California State University
Office of the Chancellor
400 Golden Shore
Long Beach, California 90802-4275
2.1.2 Project Description
The project involves the construction of a parking structure for the California
Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) campus. The structure would be four
levels in height, with a capacity for 936 vehicles, and would be connected to the Performing Arts
Center by a pedestrian bridge. Construction of the parking structure would eliminate existing
surface parking areas and tennis courts. Up to 150 parking spaces may be lost due to the
construction of the parking structure, resulting in a potential net increase of 786 additional
parking spaces.
2.1.3 Location
The project site is located in the southerly portion of the campus, at the southwest
corner of the intersection of Tahoe Road and Pacheco Way. Primary access to the parking 1
structure would be provided from Grand Avenue to the east. A secondary egress to Pacheco
Way would also be provided. Emergency access to the structure would be available from the
intersection of Hathway Avenue and Longview Lane to the.southwest. The site is north of and
adjoining the City of San Luis Obispo, in San Luis Obispo County. Regional access is provided by
U.S. Highway 101, south of the campus, and State Route 1, west of the campus. The Grand
Avenue and California Street interchanges provide the primary access to the campus from U.S.
Highway 101.
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2-1
2.0 Summary
2.2 AREAS OF CONTROVERSY KNOWN TO THE LEAD AGENCY
Public controversy concerning the proposed parking structure has been in evidence since j
the public review period for the ISINM. The principal areas of controversy relate to the
proximity of the parking structure to residences to the south and southwest of the project site and
associated traffic, noise and visual effects; access to the parking structure; and the elimination of .
existing tennis courts.
2.3 ISSUES TO BE RESOLVED
Cal Poly must determine whether to approve the development of the parking structure
as currently designed and at the proposed on-campus location.
2.4 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES
AND ALTERNATIVES
The summary included in Table 2-1 identifies four types of potential project impacts that
are associated with the proposed project. They are described as follows:
• Significant, Unavoidable, Adverse Impacts (Class I). These are impacts for
which "specific economic, social or other considerations make infeasible the
mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the Final EIR." If Cal Poly t
decides to approve the project, a Statement of Overriding Considerations must be
adopted for any identified significant, unavoidable adverse impacts, as required by
the State CEOA Guidelines, Section 15093(b).
• Significant but Mitigable Impacts (Class II). These are significant impacts that
can be feasibly mitigated to less than significant levels. State CEOA Guidelines
Section 15091(a)(1) requires that "findings" be made indicating that changes or
alterations have been required in the project to avoid or substantially lessen these
impacts.
• Impacts Found Not to be Significant (Class Ell). These are impacts that have
been found to be adverse, but less than significant.
• Beneficial Impacts (Class IV). These impacts are considered environmentally
beneficial.
The table is organized in the order of level of impact, assuming implementation of
mitigation (i.e., significant, unavoidable, adverse impacts are discussed first, and so on).
2.0 Summary
Mitigation measures, residual impacts (impacts that remain after the recommended mitigation
measures have been implemented) and cumulative impacts are also described in the impact
summary.
2.5 ALTERNATIVES
This EIR examines the following three alternatives to the proposed project and
compares the impacts of each to those of the project.
• No Project;
• Grand Avenue Location Alternative, and
• Dormitory Location Alternative.
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3-7
2.0 Summary i
i
Table 2-1. Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
Cal Poly Parking Structure I EIR •
Residual .::
Impact Siemficince t
Mrtrgaion impact.
After
Mitigatio
n<
5.1 Land Use/Recreation
LII-1 (Parking Availability). The Class IV No mitigation measures are required. Class IV
proposed parking structure would
meet a portion of the existing and
fitture parking space demand in the
project area, and provide accessible
parking for existing recreational and
performing arts uses. Towards these
ends, such impacts would be
beneficial(Class IV).
LU-2 (Tennis Courts). Although the Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
parking structure would eliminate
approximately six tennis courts, four
tennis courts located to the west of
the structure would remain, and f
additional tennis courts are proposed Il
to be constructed in the future.
Recreational impacts are considered
less than significant(Class III). t
LU-3 (Campus Alaster Plan). The Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
proposed parking structure is
consistent with Cal Poly's Master I
Plan, the guiding instrument for
development on the Cal Poly campus.
Impacts are therefore considered less r
than significant(Class III). It
LU4 (Neighborhood Impacts). The Class II Please refer to the following Mitigation Measures,fully Class III
proposed parking structure may be discussed in the air quality, noise, and visual resources 1
disruptive to residents near the section of the EIR:
project site, including those in the Air Quality(AQ-1(a),AQ-1(b),AQ-2(a)) A
Alta Vista neighborhood and the 1
campus dormitories. Neighborhood- 0 Noise(N-t(a through g))
related noise and visual impacts are
potentially significant, but mitigable • Visual Resources(VR-2(a),VR-3(a),VR-3(b)) I
(Class II).
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_ . 2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. -(Continued)
Residual
Impact S.tenificance` ` Mitigation: Impact'
-..... After.
Mtngahod:
5.2 Geologic Hazards
GEO-1 (Seismicity). In a major Class 11 GEO-1(a). Regulatory Compliance. Compliance with Class III
earthquake on the Los Osos or San the Uniform Building Code,Health and Safety Code,the
Andreas, ground accelerations of County Seismic Safety Element, and other applicable
O.150a to 0.7g may occur, which ordinances would generally reduce geologic risks to less
would cause significant adverse than significant levels. These requirements include the
impacts at the site. Implementation of preparation of soils engineering and geological
state and local regulations discussed engineering investigations prior to development. The
above would reduce potential impacts to investigation will provide mitigation for development.
a less than significant level. This is
considered significant, but mitigable GEO-1(b). Geotechnical Recommendations.
(Class 11). Construction of the parking structure shall incorporate
the recommendations of the Geotechnical Investigation
Parking Structure I(October 1994),including provisions
regarding clearing and striping, general grading,
preparation of paved areas, structural fill, excavating
conditions, foundations, pier foundations, retaining
walls, pavement design, underground facilities
construction, slab-on-grade construction, and
surface/subsurface drainage.
GEO-2 (Ground Rapture). Mapped Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
faults are located more than 2,500
feet from the project site. This is
considered a less than significant
impact(Class III).
GEO-3 (Liquefaction). There is Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
currently no evidence of conditions
that would lead to significant
liquefaction. Implementation of
recommendations contained within
geologic investigations would reduce
potential impacts associated with
liquefaction to a less than significant
level. This is considered a
potentially significant, but mitigable,
impact(Class II).
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3-7
2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
ResuduaL;>
Impact
ImpactSignificance, Mtngatu° After
n
Mittgahon;
GE04 (Landslide Potential). The Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
proposed pig structure is located
to the west of landslide deposits that f
have been trapped to the east of the
building area; however,
improvements appurtenant to the
structure, such as site grading and
access roads, could encroach on the
mapped landslide area. This is
considered a less than significant
impact(Class III).
GEO-5(Slope Stability). The project Class III No mitigation measures are required. Cly III
is expected to involve appurtenant
construction of graded slopes for the
driveway and access to Grand
Avenue. This is considered to be a F
less than significant impact (Class 11
III).
GEO-6 (landslide Potential: Grad Class II GEO-6(a). Site-Specific Geotechnical Investigation. Class M
Avenue Site). As a result of the In addition to compliance with codes and regulations,
presence of an existing landslide at additional study is needed to evaluate the landslide
the alternative site, the potential for conditions at the Grand Avenue site, as discussed for
landsliding to impact the Grand Impact GEO-6. The studies are needed to estimate the r
Avenue site for the parking structure factor of safety of the existing landslide for existing 1
exists. This is considered a static and earthquake loading conditions,and to evaluate
significant impact to structures within what impacts the alternative site improvements may
the mapped boundaries of the have out the stability of the landslide. The study will 1
landslide(Class II). specify mitigation measures for any site improvements
that are needed to satisfy slope stability requirements for
the landslide.
5.3 Traffic and Circulation
TC-1 (Project-Generated Tragic). Class III No mitigation measures are required. Cly III
Project-generated traffic would not
result in the reduction of the existing
roadway levels of service to below LOS
D. Consequently, impacts are
considered less Bran significant (Class I
>U)•
TC-2 (Intersections). project- Class III No mitigation measures are required. Cly M
generated traffic would not degrade
the operation of any study area
intersection to below its current peak
hour level of service. Consequently,
impacts are considered less than
significant(Class III).
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2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
Residual
Impact Significance Mitivation Impact. .
After.
Mitigation:
TC-3 (Parking Structure Operation) Class.0 TC-3(a). Traffic Management Plan. In anticipation of Class III
Operation of the proposed parking event related congestion at the parking structure, the
structure would result in a matdmum University shall develop traffic management strategies
surge of 842 vehicles departing in the for the structure as part of their Event Parking Traffic
one hour following an evening event Management Plan. These strategies would include
on the Cal Poly campus. Based on assignment of traffic control personnel to the structure to
the design capacity at the structure's facilitate traffic flow in and out of the facility before and
exit (800 vehicles per hour), some after events are held. A parking fee collection plan will
short-term congestion within the also need to be developed for the structure for the
structure may be anticipated events. The plan should also consider the use of one or
following evening events. This is both inbound lanes as egress lanes following events at
considered a significant but mitigable the Performing Arts Center.
impact(Class 11).
TC4 (Additional Parking). The Class IV No mitigation measures are required. Class IV
proposed structure would add a net
786 parking spaces to the Cal Poly
campus (a 936-space facility, minus
150 spaces removed from Lot GI).
This would help replace some of the
parking (about 1,000 spaces) that
have been eliminated in the past ten
years due to on-campus development.
The addition of new parking is
considered a beneficial (Class IV)
impact to the campus-wide inventory,
and would help meet growing
demand.
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2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
Residual.' .
�Pa� Srenrfacance Mitigation Impact '.
..:After ..;
Mitigation'
TC-5 (Vehicle/Pedestrian Conflicts). Class II TC-5(a). Crosswalk Markings and Signage. Class III
The proposed project would increase Roadways surrounding the parking structure will have
the possibility of conflicts between appropriate cross%alk markings and signage to facilitate
pedestrians, bicycles, and the safe passage of pedestrians to and from the parking
automobiles. This would result in a structure and other on-campus destinations. Such
potentially significant but tnitigable cross%alk markings and signage will be approved by the
(Class 11)impact Director of Public Safety and Parking Administrator.
Where hazardous conditions exist (such as where sight
distances are shortened because of curves in the road or
high vegetation) earning signage indicating that a
crosswalk is ahead shall be installed at a safe before the
crosswalk. if necessary based upon final project design,
and as determined appropriate by the Director of Public
Safety, stop signs will be installed as appropriate to
ensure safe passage of pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular
traffic.
TC-5(b). Pedestrian Overpass. The parking structure
design will include provisions for pedestrian access
between the parking structure and surrounding uses.
The design would include an overpass to the Performing
Arts Center.
TC-5(c). Interior Signage and Safety Markings. The
parking structure will include clearly visible signage
directing vehicular traffic and pedestrian traffic to
appropriate travel lanes and exits. Pedestrian
accessways shall be designated in die parking structure
by striping or other method approved by the University
Parking Administrator.
TC-6 (Cunndative. Roadways). Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class M t
Cumulative traffic increases would
not result in the reduction of the I
existing roadway levels of service to
below LOS D. Consequently,
impacts are considered less than
significant(Class III).
TC-7 (Cumulative. Intersections). Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class M
Cumulative traffic would not degrade
the operation of any study area
intersection to below its current peak
hour level of service. Consequently,
impacts are considered less dims
significant(Class 111).
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2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
Residual.
Impact Srgmfcance
Impact
Mtttgation
After.:—
Mitigation
(E .. .:..
TC-8 lenrenta School Pedestrian Class lII No mitigation measures are required. Class III
Conflict). Increased traffic on Grand
Avenue could affect pedestrian safety
at the intersection of Grand Avenue
and Slack Stmt,which is adjacent to
an elementary school. Such impacts
would be less than significant(Class
M)-
5.4 Air Quality
AQ-1 (Construction). Construction of Class I AQ-1(a). Equipment Emission Control Measures. Class I
the proposed project would result in The applicant shall use heavy equipment certified to
the emission of air pollutants meet the 1996 Federal NO. standard of 6.9 grams per
exceeding the APCD significance brake horsepower hour. At a minimum, one tracked
thresholds for NO. and Mo. This tractor or one scraper used on the project site shall be
impact cannot be mitigated to a level certified to meet this Federal standard. Certified heavy
of less than significant;therefore,it is equipment shall be used as the primary equipment and
considered Class I, significant and noncertified equipment(such as a second scraper) shall
unavoidable. be used only to supplement certified equipment when
multiple units are required. These requirements are
equivalent to CBACT and shall be noted on the grading
plan and listed in the contractor and subcontractor
contracts.
2-9
3-�3
2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
jby
ual
Sngnnficance Mhhgatuon:' act
tionAQ-IM. Dust Control Measures. Dust gconstruction activities shall be kept to a minimimplementation of the following measures.
During clearing,grading. earth moving,or transportation of cut or fill materi
trucks or sprinkler systems are to be used to prevent
dust from leaving the site and to create a crust after
each days activities cease;
• During construction, umter trucks or sprinkler
systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle
movement damp enough to prevent dust from
leaving the site. At a minimum, this would include
wetting doh%n such areas in the morning and after
work is completed for tate day and whenever wind
exceeds IS miles per hour,
• Stockpiled earth material shall be sprayed as
needed to minimize dust generation.
• During construction, the amount of disturbed area
..-shall be minimized, and onsite vehicle speeds
should be reduced to IS mph or less;
• Exposed ground areas that are planned to be
reworked at dates more than one month after initial
grading should be sown with afast-gemtinating
native grass seed and watered until vegetation is
established;
• After clearing,grading,earth moving, or excavation
is completed, (lie entire area of disturbed soil shall
be treated inunediately by catering or revegetating
or spreading soil binders to minimize dust
generation until the area is paved or otherwise
developed so that dust generation will not occur,
• Grading and scraping operations shall be suspended
Mien wind speeds exceed 20 mph (one hour
averagey,,
All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks associated with [
construction activities should be paved as soon as
possible. In addition, building and other pads shall be
laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or
soil binders are used. 1
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2.0 Summary
Table 2-1.-(Continued)
Residual
Impact Significance Mitigation Impact
e
NLhgatioM
AQ-2 (Vehicle Emissions). The Class I AQ-2(a). Parking Payment Options. Prepayment of Class I
concentration of vehicle exhaust parking fees could be considered to prevent vehicle
emissions within the proposed queuing when leaving, which would reduce vehicle
parking structure would result in the startup emissions within the parking structure and
exceedance of the State ]-hour CO associated ambient CO concentrations. Parking fees
standard at adjacent athletic could be collected through long-term or special event
facilities. This impact cannot be passes.
mitigated to a level of less than
significant-,-,therefore, it is considered
Class I,significant and unavoidable.
AQ-3 (Cumulative). Emissions Class I All feasible mitigation measures have been Class I
associated with the cumulative recommended to reduce project impacts; no additional
projects would exceed the APCD measures are available to further mitigate cumulative
significance thresholds. This impact impacts.
cannot be mitigated to a level of less
than significant; therefore, it is
considered Class I, significant and
unavoidable.
1 _ .
1
1
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2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
.
RestduaL
Impact S.tgmfcante .: Mitigation: lmpai
A e
ft.:r
Mtttgation
.:
5.5 Noise
N-1 (Construction). Construction Class II N-1(a). Equipment Maintenance. All construction Class M
would create high noise levels that equipment should be in proper operating condition and
affect onsite campus land uses fitted with factory standard silencing features.
surrounding the project site, and
would significantly affect the N-1(b). Haul Routes. Dirt hauling routes should be
dormitories and private residential oriented a%say from property boundaries which abut
land uses along Grand Avenue, Slack existing sensitive land uses. The primary route onto the
Street,Longview Lane, and Hathway site shall be from Grand Avenue to Slack Street; not
Avenue. Because construction noise Longview Lane or Hathway Avenue.
would only occur over a short time N-I(c). Vehicle Staging Location. Stockpiling and
period, such impacts are considered
significant but mitigable(Class II). Vehicle staging areas should be located as far as
practical from occupied structures.
N-1(d). Minimize Noise Exposure Periods. When
reasonable, the noisiest construction operations should
be arranged to occur together in the construction
program to avoid continuing periods of greater
annoyance.
N-1(c). Temporary Noise Barriers. Temporary
portable noise barriers should be erected between
sensitive structures and construction areas during those
activities that utilize high noise generating equipment
during those time periods in which sensitive structures
would be affected. These temporary barriers could i
reduce noise levels by approximately 3 to 5 dBA
dependent upon the materials used for such a feature.
Non-noise generating construction activities, such as
interior painting,would not be subject to this restriction.
N-1(f). Construction Hours. Project construction
activities that generate noise in excess of 60 dB at the
project site boundary shall be limited to the hours of 7
a.m. to 6 p.m.
N-1(g). Pile Driver Use. if possible, the use of pile
drivers shall be minimized at the construction of the
parking structure. Alternative techniques that produce
less noise, such as drilled or bored piles, shall be
considered.
1
1
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t 2.0 Summary
I
Table 2-1. (Continued)
1 Residual
Impact: Significance. Mitigrtion Impact After
1 Mitigation. .
N-2 (Structure Operation). Noise Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
resulting from general operation of
the parking structure itself would not
be discernible to nearby residents.
Car alums and horns would be
audible,but would not produce noise
volumes substantially different than
what currently exists. Potential
impacts are considered to be less than
rr7esi�dents,
iicant(Class III).
(Traffic). Traffic noise resulting Class III No mitigation measures are required. Class III
use of the parking structure
not be discernible to local
and would incrementally
existing noise levels along
Grand Avenue, Slack Street,
Hathway Avenue and Longview
Lane. This is considered less than
significant(Class III)impact.
N-I (Cumulative). Cumulative noise Class 11 N4(a). Non-Squeal Paring Materials Paving Class III
impacts caused by traffic increases on finishes that reduce the potential for noise from fire
Grand Avenue and California squealing shall be used Mthin the structure and on
Boulevard would result in significatu external ingress and egress approaches. A slightly
but mitigable(Class II)impacts. rough finish that offers traction will reduce the potential
for fire squealing
5.6 Visual Resources
F,pr
(Cautructiwr). During site Class LIIFinclude
Good Housekeeping Plan. Prior to issuance Class III
ration and construction periods, or construction permits for the proposed
d land, construction equipment, 1 Poly shall prepare and submit a construction
ials, and the access road and od housekeeping plan." The plan shall
parking structure in various phases of ch information as designation of onsite
completion would be clearly visible or materials and equipment storage, schedule
from Grand Avenue, Slack Street, for debris removal,and proposed screening mechanisms.
Pacheco Road, Tahoe Road, the
Hathway Avenue/Longview Lane
intersection, surrounding exterior
areas, and nearby recreational and
residential Uses. Because
construction-related impacts would
be short term in nature, they are
considered adverse, but less than
significant(Class III).
CWVWA%VR PMECTSr-WM"ARKMORlFWE1NL}SEQ-0." 2-133
-3-17
2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Continued)
___...._ ... .........._ _ .... ......... ..... . .
Residual
Impact Sugriificance Mitigation ImpactAftcr
Mitigation.
VR-2 ((Light and Glare). The Class 11 VR-2(a). Interior Lighting. All interior lighting Class III
proposed development would associated %with the proposed parking structure shall be
introduce additional light and glare directed internally %%ith lamp "cutoff shields." No
within an already developed portion unobstructed beam of light shall be directed toward lot
of the Cal Poly campus,which would land uses outside the structure and shall not interfere
be visible to motorists on nearby with vehicular traffic out any portion of any street.
streets and surrounding land uses. Examples of specifications for minimizing light and
Light and glare impacts are glare include the following.
considered significa t but mitigable All lights mast be shielded to avoid glare and light
(Class II).
spill-over onto adjacent areas and onto public right-
of-way areas-,
• Landscape illumination should be done %ith low
level,unobtrusive fixtures;
• Parking structure lighting shall be designed to
provide the minimum safe lighting levels. Per IES
standards, this is 6 foot-candles (fc) maintained
throughout internal to the structure, and I fc
minimum on the roof-,
• The use of rellective materials on the exterior of all
structures shall be minimized;
• Internal lightwells %will be provided to maximize
the amount of natural light;
• No sheanvalls will be included on the interior or
exterior of the structure that could block natural
light;
• Light fixtures will include a vertical component to
create an even distribution of light;
• Solid mils shall be included around the perimeter
to block light spillage from headlights on cars
within the structure;and
• All roof light fixtures shall be located on the
interior columns to keep light from spilling out on
to adjacent areas, and will include "cut-oil"
shields.
VR-3 (Structure Aesthetics). The Class U VR-3(a). Architectural Design. The. structure's Class III
proposed parking structure would be design must be approved by the Cal Poly administration
highly visible to residents in the and CSU Chancellor's office, so as to ensure unity with
nearby dormitories and the Alta Vista the natural and architectural character of the
neighborhood. Potential impacts to surrounding area. The design of the structure must be
existing viewsheds are potentially such that ridgetop views are preserved from surrounding
signiJPcant but mitigable(Class II). residential areas.'
w oRiEPtOort%ssr_ca.han+ 2-14
2.0 Summary
Table 2-1. (Contin tied)
Reatdual
Impact $'igntficance Mitigation Impact After,
...
Mitigation :i
® VR-3(b). Landscape Design. The following principles
shall be followed in landscape design associated with
the proposed project:
• Existing healthy vegetation near or on the site shall
be incorporated into project design as feasible;
• Planting areas must be incorporated into the project
design to soften the effect of building and paving;
however, landscaping shall not encourage hiding
places adjacent to the structure that could pose a
security risk;
• Landscaping shall be included to minimize views of
the structure from nearby residential areas, but
should not be so high as to block ridgetop views;
• The types of plants used for screening purposes
shall be chosen based on their ability to achieve
this purpose within two years of planting;
otherwise, such plants shall be supplemented by
temporary architectural features such as screen
fences or an arbor,and
— 0 Landscape materials shall be chosen to minimize
maintenance and water use.
5.7 Public Safety
PS-1 (Criminal Activities). A Class Il PS-1(a). Interior Lighting Standards. Interior Class
pig structure, by its nature, can lighting within the structure shall meet the standards of
increase criminal activities in an the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America.
area This is considered significant Such standards emphasize the need for uniform lighting
but mitigable (Class II) impact throughout the structure, not just on the driving aisles.
Design and operational features can These standards may be found in the IES Lighting
reduce this to a less than significant Handbook,Reference Volume.
level.
PS-1(b). Interior Stairway Location. The two
stairways that would be located at the interior of the
parking structure must be open, with good visibility
from other areas of the facility. There should be no
enclosed areas that could be used as hiding places for
potential criminals.
PS-1(c). Interior Color Scheme. The concrete on the
interior shall be stained or painted a light color to
maximum the reflectivity of interior lighting.
PS-I(d). Design for Potential ]tooth Attendant. The
design of the structure should allow the possibility that a
ticket booth attendant could be added at the entrance to
the structure. However,construction of such a booth is
r
not required at this time.
e .•onowea,eers�xvo�w�nnw+�e�mooausea�s�. 2-15
2.0 Summary
Table 2-1.- (Continued)
Residual
Impact Stsniticance Mitigation Impact After.
Mitigation
PS-1(e). Interior Signage. Large, readable signs and
graphics shall be placed to help orient patrons and allow
[Item to move more quickly in and out of the facility.
Signs that state the facility is under surveillance shall
also be included in the structure.
PS-1(0 Active Security Measures. The structure shall
be patrolled by a security guard, particularly during the
evening viten campus events are occurring. Closed
circuit cameras are recommended. At a mittimutt, the
structure shall be designed to accommodate closed
circuit cameras for future installation.
PS-2 (Asbestos). The severity of Class II PS-2(a) Asbestos Removal Procedures. The Class III
asbestos hazards is a function of following procedures shall be implemented in
whether the materials used in the
tennis courts contain asbestos, conjunction with the removal of asbestos from the 6
proximity to nearby residents, and tennis courts slated for demolition:
prevailing wind direction. The
surface materials were found to 1) The County of San Luis Obispo Air Pollution
contain asbestos. Consequently, Control District shall be notified of findings
potential hazards are considered contained in the report, included in its entirety
significant, but mitigable(Class II). in Appendix 5.7 of this EIR. Notification
regarding the presence and location of ACMs
identified by this survey to be present shall be
made in conformance with California Health
and Safety Code Section 25915 et, seq.
(Asbestos Notification Act—Connelly Bill);
2) A licensed asbestos contractor shall properly
remove playing surface material before
demolition of the tennis courts,
3) Proper health and safety measures shall be
implemented to protect the campus population
and surrounding community (including air
monitoring) during asbestos abatement
activities,and
4) Proper disposal of the asbestos-containing
materials at a pre-approved landfill shall be
conducted.
ewm«waowawECTsxwuvavueo .o.sLU 2-16
3-�0
ONLY 0
1�4 4 o y o sAntMs oBis
co
I t OFFICE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
4l S 0 990 Palm Street■San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249■8051781.7119■ FAX 805/781-7109
October 3, 1997
Mr. Charles L. Senn, Chairman
Planning Commission
City of San Luis Obispo
Subject: Cal Poly Parking Structure-EIR Review
Dear Charley:
Thank you for your correspondence of October 1, 1997, relative to the Planning Commission's
suggestion regarding the City Council accepting public comments on the Cal Poly Parking
Struchrre EIR.
First, Cal Poly has established a Public Forum to discuss this matter,which.is scheduled for
October 14'b at 7:00 p.m. at the Monday. Club.
Secondly,the City staff has been previously asked to review the document and to speak to the
City's primary concerns at the Public Forum.
Thirdly, and most importantly, Cal Poly is the lead agency in both the Parking Garage project
and the preparation and the certification of the EIR. It is important that all comments on this
project, whether by-the City government or neighborhood organizations or interested individuals,
be delivered directly to Cal Poly,both in writing and at their scheduled Public Forum. While the
City has heard from representatives of several organizations and individuals,the real situation is
that Cal Poly has the sole legal authority in this area. The City's perspective is advisory only to
the University, and our creation of a second hearing might confuse citizens and could be
perceived as detracting from or diluting Cal Poly's authority and responsibility on these matters.
I urge the Commission,neighbors,RQN, and other citizens to express your views at the planned
Cal Poly Forum on the 14t°.
Thank you for writing and expressing your perspective to the Council.
Sincerely,
All S e
Mayor
Cc: City Council
City Administrative Officer
Community Development Director
® The City of San Luis Obispo is committed to Include the disabled in all of its services,programs and activities.
Telecommunications Device for the Deal(805)781-7410 lid ^.
Jy—JJ!
Editorials B4. Tuesday, September 10, 1996
San Luis Obispo Courly.Tel wrr Tr.bune
We re all
in. this. ��� - : •
together
Nearby residents'of C dRoly.have won
their case fair and square against the
university.'s p]an'to build an$8 million
parking structure.over tennis courts on the
campus.-
1~aced.with`a courtorder,the Cal Poly.
adininistratiori riow.must either push ahead
with a survey on traffic,a-
The issue:. . • Pollution and other factors,
Dispute.over or abandon the project and'• '
find'other areas on campus
Poly parking: . for increased parking
space. .
structure':.
We continue to believe:
location 'that the tennis court site:is
Preferable to building a
Our view. parking facility on the:
Opponents' `=: :..mam parking lot bordering .
Grand Avenue.
rhould setfle::. Also,we don't'see how
di erences increased tragic can be.
ff avoided regardless gardless of where
y new campus parking is
created.The simple fact.is
that students drive cars.Additional parking;
is needed.not only to accommodate Cal
Poly.'s:growing enrollment but to serve the
new Performing Arts Center,which is part .
and parcel of the-University..
It seems to us a larger issue is involved
here,and that is•the nature ofthe
relationship between the'university and its
neighbors.
This relationshiis strained:Both sides .
ought to admit as mu'-ch"-and get on with the,'
business of making peace. .
The;case.has..been.made.time`and agxiii.
as.to'the vital-importance of Cal Poly to the
economic aii
palsanbat
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` .19OJd-uoN V 1 1 tLJ
California Polytechnic State University Vol.52,No.8
Dateline San Luis Obispo,CA 93407 October 29, 1997
WEDNESDAY,OCTOBER 29
•Health-Wellness Fair. Immu-
nizations and health education, : ASI approves fees
UU 220, 11 am
THURSDAY,OCTOBER 30 for complex, UU a 1°
•Speaker: William Morris,"Co- The ASI Board of Directors has voted
�
lumbia University and the Bio- �� by a large majority to extend student sup-
sphere 2 Center: Biosphere and a port of the proposed sports complex and in-
Focus on Past,Present and Fu- p crease the quarterly fee for operation of the
ture,"Fisher Science 286, 11 am. UU and Rec Sports programs.
•Women's Soccer: BYU,Sta- O �' A$7-per-quarter fee for the sports com-
dium,7 pm. (S) Garage plex, which was approved in 1996,will be
FRIDAY,OCTOBER 31 g extended from 15 to 30 years,and increase
•Men's Soccer. BYU,Stadium, the students' stake in the complex to$4.9
7 pm. (S) million. Current plans for the project,
SATURDAY,NOVEMBER 1 y .� T� which is expected to break ground in the
•Artists' Reception: Multi-Cul- �� 04 spring, includes baseball and softball stadi-
tural Center,4 pm. ums along with six lighted multi-use fields
•Day of the Dead Celebration: for intramural sports.sports clubs,and open
Rec Center,6:30 pm. recreation for all students.
•Comedy: Carol Burnett,Cohan Garage Location — The diagram shows At the same meeting, student leaders
Center,8 pm.(S) where Cal Poly proposes to build the park- UU student
ar
to increase the quarterly voted u
SUNDAY,NOVEMBER 2 ing structure. The short street with the cir- feed $18, beginning terly Of that
•Women's Soccer: San Jose cular loop is the proposed connection front amount, $6(as required by CSU policies)
-Men's taSoccer: St.Mar 's,Sta- Grand Avenue. For e t answer to the "Why will go directly to financial aid programs.
Y there. question, see the Hot Topic of the The hi her fees will be used to cover in-
dium,5:30 pm. ($) Week on page 3 inside. g
•Music Polyphonic Concert, creasing operating costs for both the UU
Cohan Center Pavilion,3 pm. (S) and the Rec Sports programs, beginning in
MONDAY,NOVEMBER 3 1999.
*Speaker, Bruce Epler,"Geo- The last UU operational fee increase
graphic Imaging—Tools for Busi- Policies in place to deal was in January 1989.
ness and Science,"Staff Diningwithalleged misconduct The ASI board delayed voting on these
Room, noon. measures for three weeks to consult more
•Speaker:Christie Johnson Cof- In compliance with federal regulations, widely with student councils in each col-
fin,"Making Places for Scientists Cal Poly has policies and procedures in lege and to debate and analyze the issues
(and Other People),"Business place for addressing incidents of scientific fully.
Rotunda,7:30 pm. fraud and misconduct. For the past several years, the fees col-
TUESDAY,NOVEMBER 4 The policies are contained in the docu- lected for the UU and Rec Sports have not
•FIDO Brown-Bag Lunch Se- ment"Policies and Procedures for the Han- been sufficient to cover their operating
ries: Distinguished Teachers dling of Allegations of Scientific Fraud and costs,and reserve funds have had to be
Panel with Len Davidman, Serious Misconduct," which has been re- used to avoid deficits.Without the fee in-
UCIE;Al Landwehr,English; viewed and approved by the Office of Re- crease, it was predicted the reserve funds
Bob Thompson,Agribusiness; search Integrity of the U.S.Department of would be depleted in three ears.
moderated by Don Maas,UCTE, P Y
Health and Human Services. Some of the factors contributing to
Staff Dining Room,noon. g
•Leadership Program: "The The document defines scientific fraud higher operating costs include enrollment
Assertive Leader"by Jean and misconduct and lays out the procedures growth, higher minimum wages, inflation,
DeCosta,UU 216,noon. to be followed when an official allegation needed UU building repairs and upgrades.
•Play: London's Aquila Theatre of misconduct has been made. and higher technology expenses to in-
Company in'The Birds"by Copies of the policy are available from crease productivity.
Aristophanes.Cohan Center, the Research and Graduate Programs,
8 pm. (S) Grants Development, and the Foundation
Sponsored Programs offices, all in the
Mathematics and Home Economics Build-
ing. For a copy,call ext.6-1508 or e-mail
(Continued on page 4) cbrooksh(@calpoly.edu).
3-23
CAL POLY REPORT
October 29,1997 ftV 3
- HOT TOPIC Of THE WEEK Tickets on sale for
build the parking where the tennis carts are' `The Imaginary Invalid'
Why 1���6��s Tickets are on sale for Moliere's
Why is the parking garage proposed tion.Leaving aside the cost to engineer '"Che Imaginary Invalid," the Theatre
to be built on the tennis-court site?The a structure in those conditions, the cost and Dance Department's opening pro-
question came up at a recent public fo- of excavating the area, which includes duction for the 1997-98 theater season.
rum and in news accounts. Facilities both dirt and rock, would be immense. The play will have six performances
Planning Director Bob Kitamura gives So why not build up along Grand in the Theatre,Nov. 13-15 and 20-22.
these answers: Avenue,then? Is the view really that Directed by Department Chair Al
Wasn't the structure originally important? Schnupp,The Imaginary Invalid"is a
supposed to be built along Grand Av- Aside from the impact a tall structure farce about a man with a million imagi-
enue,across from Yosemite Hall? on Grand would have on students living nary ills who hopes to marry his daugh-
No.Original studies looked at many in the residence halls as well as Alta ter off to a doctor in order to save
factors and identified the large,general Vista residents, the university strives to money on medical bills.
area west of Grand as the area where create an attractive campus.An analysis Tickets are$8 for the public and$7
parking was needed and feasible.The done several years ago proposed a land- for students and senior citizens.
studies analyzed several specific sites, scaped corridor along Grand, leading up
including Grand Avenue,but there was to the Performing Arts Center and its
never a specific plan to build along plaza. A structure on Grand would for-
Grand itself.The fust specific architec- ever preclude that possibility and give P I E C E Of M I N D
tural plan located the garage on the ten- the campus a crowded,urban feeling the
nis-court site. administration would like to avoid. Dear Editor:
Why was the present site chosen? ' ' ' ' When I read the article about Kristy
Among many reasons,the three most We will address other campus questions Pena, it brought up for me something
important are the geology, the cost,and You might have about the garage. Send that has been bothering me since I came
the view.The geological conditions un- Your questions to the Cal Poly Report, on campus two years ago.It may also
der the Grand Avenue parking lots Communications Office, Heron Hall; bother others,so I thought I'd let you
would make it very difficult—thus very fax 6-6533;or e-mail polynews@ know.
expensive—to put the structure even polymail. If you'd like your questions or Often people's names here on cam-
one level underground there. comments to appear in the Report, tell pus that contain the Spanish letter"fi"
In reviewing the potential visual im- us and we'll print them in our "Piece of are spelled with an English"n."Al-
pact,the university had to consider the Mind"section. though it is usually accepted casually, it
effect on the residence halls,Vista Grande, is technically incorrect.In the Spanish
performing arts patrons,and visitors alphabet there is a letter"n' and a letter
coming into the campus's main entrance "a."People with the"t5"in their names
as well as the effect on the Alta Vista please rep lace prefer to have it spelled with the correct
neighborhood. Because high costs would Spanish letter.
require Cal Poly to build up,not down, old logos with new Thanks for listening to my little pet
along Grand,the university's position is A reminder:Cal Poly has modified gripe.You folks do an excellent job
that the current site has the least visual its logo,and the new form should re- with the weekly Cal Poly Report.
impact on almost everyone involved, in- place the old one as soon as practicable. Maybe my suggestion can help make it
cluding Alta Vista neighborhood residents. The new logo has a bar under the even better.
What are those costlygeologic con- words"Cal Poly"—as shown on the Gwen Chavarria
g back of this Cal Poly Report. The old Human Resources
next to Grand
built the Cohan Center loo had a thin line under the words and
neat to Grand without undue geologi- g (Editors' Note:We appreciate your
cal problems or cost Why not dig the an even thinner line above. bringing this to our attention and,when
garage into the ground,save the view, The new logo also has a version that possible,will strive to include tildes and
and make the neighbors happy? includes San Luis Obispo between the other symbols used with non-English
The Cohan Center didn't raise the 'Val Poly"and the bar for instances names and words. iMuchas gracias!)
same questions.It wasn't built under- when you need to avoid confusion with .Piece o Mind"is or our letters
ground.The problem alongGrand is the Pomona campus. f f Y
Supplies of material with the old in- about campus issues. Questions, ezpla-
that the area is the boron,or"toe,"of si is may be used u but should not be nations compliments, complaints—we
an ancient landslide.Building on top of reprinted.Please review your Web sites, want them all. Keep them brief, but keep
an old landslide isn't a hazard because forms and other material to be sure the them coming. Or we'll start nagging.
the material has stabilized over centu- old logo isn't surviving in some forgot- Include name, department,and phone
ries.But when you cut into it,especially ten comer of our often cluttered world. number. Mail to the Communications
at the toe,you're-compromising its sta- Office, Heron Hall;fax to 6-6533;
bility and creating a dangerous situa- Questions. Call the Communica- e-mail to of news@ 1 mail.
tions Office at ext.6-1511. P Y Po Y
3 2Y
CAL POLY REPORT
Page 6 November 12,1997
WOE Of MIND
Parking Structure even begun.In fact,the geological stud- Thank you for providing a forum for
Dear Editor: ies were not completed until March discussing issues that impact the lives
There are several issues raised in the 1997. Prior to the geological study, the of the students, staff and faculty of the
interview with Robert Kitamura,direr- assertion was that the soil on the G-1 lot university and the residents of the com-
tor of facilities planning, that appeared was hard bedrock and, therefore, expen- munity of San Luis Obispo.
in the Oct. 29 issue of Cal Poly Report sive and difficult to move. After the Marlin D. Vix,President
that cannot be left unchallenged. geological study was completed it was Alta Vista Neighborhood Association
Kitamura's response of"No"to the found that the soil is actually the"toe" Professor, Agribusiness Department
question, "Wasn't the (parking) struc- of an ancient landslide.On this land- (Editors'note:In the previous Re-
tutre originally supposed to be built slide area Cal Poly has built the dorms, port article, the full quote about visual
along Grand Avenue,across from Vista Grande restaurant, and the Per- impact was, "Because high costs would
Yosemite Hall?"is perplexing. One of forming Arts Center. Now, the soil is require Cal Poly to build up, not down,
the requirements of the California Envi- found in many places to be potentially along Grand, the university's position is
ronmental Quality Act is the identifica- unstable and too soft.This Goldilocks that the current site has the least visual
tion and examination of alternatives to approach to explaining the soil condi- impact on almost everyone involved in-
the proposed project.The Parking tion,('it's too hard—no, it's too soft)is cluding Alta Vista neighborhood resi-
Structure Draft Environmental Impact inconsistent with the actual geological dents.")
Report notes that, `"The site chosen for studies and chronology of events. Also,
the alternative location is the one oriel_ the statement that the Cohan Center did Kudos
pgly(my underlining)proposed by Cal not encounter problems that it Dear Editor:
Poly to be located entirely on a portion wasn't built underground is inaccurate. The new format of the Cal Poly Re-
of Lot G-1.The structure would have In fact, the Cohan Center did encounter port suits me just fine. The front page
three levels and extend from the former excavation problems and is built, in Dateline is so conveniently located and
location of Tahoe Road to the first en- Part, underground. easy to read. Also,I think the Wednes-
trance to lot G-1."A complete copy of Kitamura also failed to mention that day distribution will result in a more
the original Warnecke-DMJM design the proposed "landscaped corridor along timely readership.
for the parking structure is available in Grand, leading up to the Performing Jane Brechler
the Facilities Planning office of Arts Center and its plaza"calls for the Speech Communication
Kitamura.
elimination of all surface parking along
. • • •
Numerous additional sources attest Grand. If the university proceeds with
to the intention of Cal Poly to locate the this plan,there will be a loss of over Sports Complex
parking structure on the G-1 lot.Cal 1,400 existing surface parking spaces to Dear Editor:
P g be replaced by the 936-space parking I guess I have been naive,but I did
Poly consistently presented the idea of not realize that the Cal Poly Report was
P
the parking structure being located on garage. What is the justification of los-
that site,and the public accepted that ing 500 parking spaces for$8.032 mil- such a propaganda vehicle for the ad-
that was where it would be.The public lion? ministration. I refer to Dan Howard-
was not informed of the change to the The Alta Vista neighbors of Cal Poly Greene's"Special Report on the Sports
tennis court site until Aril, 1996. Inci- do not share Kitamura's opinion that Complex" in the Nov. 5 issue.
P "the current site has the least visual im- I believe that most of us in the Col-
triggeredlege Agriculture unpleasant
by a misleading legal notice in Part on almost everyone involved, in- g g � P
the Telegram Tribune,that ultimate) cluding Alta Vista neighborhood resi- memory of the"planning"for this facil-
g y dents,"and we question if the patrons of ity to quietly fade away,but the revisionist
led to the lawsuit brought the Alta the performing ACenter will share history of the planning for this project
Vista Neighborhood Association that re- Arts as put forward b the spokesperson for
suited in Cal Polyagreeing tb conduct this opinion either.The view from our P Y
g
an environmental impact review. neighborhood will be of a 311,000- the administration requires a response.
implication of the statement that
Furthermore,Kitamura stated that square-foot, three-level, utilitarian con- The im P
one of the reasons the tennis court site Rete box of arguable aesthetic and at- "When the College of Agriculture Land
was chosen was because, "Tile geologi- chitectural merit.The view from the Use Committee objected in the spring of
cal conditions under the Grand Avenue Plaza level of the Performing Arts Cen- 1995 ... is false.That committee had
parking lots would make it very difficult ter to the south and west to the morros been objecting,and.(had been) ignored,
—thus veryexpensive—to put the struc- and the city of San Luis Obispo will be since 1990 or 1991,and it was not until
turP P of the cars and light poles on the roof of we took the issue to the Academic Sen-
The even one level underground there.' ate in the spring of 1995 and of their
The decision to relocate the parking the parking structure. Is this what the P g g
structure to the tennis court site was Patrons of the Performing Arts Center support that the administration became
made before the geological study was are expecting? cooperative.
(Continued on page 7)
3�
RQN News
AM 111 Fm7-r
EIR Verifies PAC RQN Volunteers
Parking Garage Fears work with Police
by Doreen Case
by George Brand
An $8 million parking garage for Cal Poly's Performing Arts Center would be an envi- The RON board has requested an
ronmental disaster,according to a 250-page Environmental Impact Report. article about the police log work that
That was the message brought by Marlin Vix, president of the Alta Vista Neighborhood LaVene Storni, Geri Bedell, new volun-
Association when he spoke to the RON annual dinner meeting October 26. teer, and I engage in each week. This
He added that a consultant for the university has concluded,with the possible exception of began a couple of years ago when Chief
traffic,"the environment in our neighborhood would be worse off, in fact much worse off." Gardiner asked me to continue the noise
if the structure is allowed. disturbance research I had started in
Vix said that when residents neighboring Cal Poly first saw the plans for the parking regard to our Police Relations Committee
garage and its location 18 months ago,"fear and uncertainty"was the reaction. meetings.
"All those things we imagined and feared in the past have now been verified"by the EIR, Henry Case made up log forms to
he told his audience of about 70. record addresses,description of incidents,
"Mitigation measures offered by the university are basically Band-Aids and ultimately names of those at addresses receiving
ineffective in our view,"he said. a Disturbance Advisory Card (DAC)
Mx said the proposed structure would provide 936 parking spaces at a cost of about or Citation, whether a Patty Premise,
$10,000 each. He contended that a university master plan calls for the removal of the officers called, names of responding
parking lots on Grand Avenue from the entrance to Cal Poly to the Performing Arts Center party, etc. Each sheet has space for
and replacing them with a green belt. incidents and every week several sh.
This, he said, would result in a net loss of 500 parking spaces after the parking garage are filled out for mostly R-1 neighbor-
is built. hoods.This does not include the"unable
"The Alta Vista Neighborhood Association doesn't understand the logic of building a to locate" calls (UTL) or situations
parking structure resulting in the loss of 500 spaces at a cost of$8 million" without concrete information.
In the summer of 1996 AVNA successfully sued the university in an effort to have a A check is then made to see which of
complete EIR prepared. those addresses has had a DAC or citation
in the previous 60 days.Those are noted
continued on page 2 and turned into Lt.Joe Hazouri as backup
for his work and to get offenders put on
the Premise list. ldeally, the offending
residence should receive a citation on the
General Meeting Announcement
continued on page 3
Date: Thursday, December 4, 1997
Time: 7:30 p.m. IN THIS ISSUIE
Place: Wesley Fellowship Hall of United Methodist Church
EIR Verifies PAC
1515 Fredericks Street • San Luis Obispo Parking Garage Fears Pages 1-2
Drive to rear of property...Wesley Fellowship Hall is light RQN Volunteers Work with Police Page 1&3
yellow two story building next to parking lot.
General Meeting Announcement Page 1
Program: The City's Role in the Preservation of AU Neighborhoods Board of Directors Pa
A panel discussion.by Mayor Alan Settle, Councilwoman, New Members Page
Kathy Smith, CAO John Dunn. Janet Kourakis, Moderator.
MembershipApplicarion Page
LLAn excellent opportunity to air neighborhood problems and to
seek possible solutions from city administration. Thanks for die Dinner Meeting Page 4
„ PAGE 2 RQN NEWS :
EIR-continued from page I
_..e suit was filed after Cal Poly "We didn't think we had much of a Board of
refused an Alta Vista request for a chance in court,” Vix said, adding when Directors-Officers
complete EIR. the judge ruled in the neighbors'favor, it
"They said `no' because they had to was"one of the more memorable days of Larry Batcheldor Monterey Heights
press on or lose funding. The funding is my life."
still there - maybe the urgency of the Following the judge's decision Zimmer Doreen Case Alta Vista
project was overstated,"said Vix. told Vix that the "arrogance and lack of
Vit explained that the association first preparation" of the university's attorney Carol Winger Mont. Hts.
attempted to enlist the help of the worked in favor of the neighborhood
San Luis Obispo City Council in getting association. Beverly Green Alta Vista
the EIR. Vix said an issue still to be resolved is
He described the process as "disap- whether it is appropriate to use student,
pointing". staff and faculty funds to build the Members-at-Large
"I don't know why the city didn't $8 million garage to provide parking for
support us when it became necessary for patrons of the Performing Arts Center. Elinor Bonin Foothill/Ramona
us to file a lawsuit against the university, "We feel that students, staff and
said Vix,a Cal Poly agriculture professor. faculty at Poly should determine if this is Lee Burkett Laguna Lake
The city gave no explanation for its how they want their money spent on a
lack of support, he said parking structure being built without Dotty Conner Alta Vista
When AVNA decided to go to court, consideration of their needs and without John Enos Cuesta Highlands
the association tried unsuccessfully to their input. Do students, staff and faculty
hire a San Luis Obispo attorney. want a parking structure for someone Janet Kourakis Southwood
"Several in San Luis Obispo declined else's benefit or for their own benefit?"
to represent us either because they were Vix said he now hopes the City Ray Nordquist Ferrini Heights
ir••^tved with the Performing Arts Center Council will recognize the parking
/ were hoping to get business with structure is an environmental disaster for Carla Saunders Bishop Peak
the university either now or in the future," the neighborhood.
he said. "We won our lawsuit without them,but LaVeme Storni Johnson
The association engaged Jana Zimmer, we desperately need them now".
a Santa Barbara attorney, who "repre- "If there is one shred of commitment to Mendi Stubson Park View
sented us brilliantly," Vix said, adding neighborhood preservation, even a tiny
that she had valuable assistance from sense of responsibility to putting the lives If you have any questions or
neighborhood residents, some of whom and welfare of people first and foremost,
were"amazing sleuths". hopefully the council will come to our problems please call one of us.
The lawsuit was financed by residents defense,"he said.
donations ranging from $5 to$2,000.
--ter• . ,
to Dominic Perello (and Christine) in his continuing recovery after a
w fall from his roof while "overseeing" some work more than two
n
months ago.After some time in the hospital,he is home in a body cast
while vertabrae are mending.
Our 5uuer& C
D to Marianne Lefebvre in the passing of husband, Ray,on November 2.
Ray was an early supporter of RQN.
7
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DATE i� ITEM # 3
Tu: John Dunn
.N LUIS OBISPO RanRegier
From: Sandi sigttrtivan
SYMPHONY
rc: Council Meeting on Cal Poly/PAC Parking structure
Yesterday I received a memo from Myra Reslop asking for Symphony support of the
parking structure and encouraging attendance at the Council meeting. 1 foxed the memo
to all of our board members who have fames. The Board has not formulated an official
"Symphony position"on the parking structure, w whether you'd want my personal
opinion(colored by my position with the Symphony)is dubious and not necessarily
helpful to moving forward with the structure.
The saying goes"u little knowledge is a dangerous thing". well,I have a little
knowledge.
Last season I had one complaint from one patron who was unable to find handicapped
parking of a Symphony concert. Ron handled that complaint beautifully and it's done.
in this season the"problem"focuses on the parking charge of 12,announced late and
with no perceived improvements in parking.After our hisay fit and gracious meetings
with Cal Poly parking officials I haven't heard another word from patrons or musicians.
If I were to attend tonight's meeting I would say that the Symphony as a PAC client
would prefer covered walkways to the PAC for the weather protection of our mueicium
and patrons. We would also prefer improved lighting and increased sense of safety in the
parking lot. Finally,we want to maintain easy access and egress. I would want to
encourage environmentally sound,fiscally responsible and community responsive
decision making. If all that can be done without spending 18 million and tearing up
PO BOX 6S8 I Grand Avenue AGAIN.I'd be in favor of it.
But looking at alternatives is not what's before the Council tonight. A pasuionate cry for
SAN LUIS OBISPO the dire need of the parking structure(painfully colored by"the use or lose it"strings of
state spending)is what parking structure proponents need.and I'm not personally
prepared to do than.
CALIFORNIA 93406
K stowing my little bit of knowledge.if you want me to attend tonight,call and leave a
message and I'll be there. Work: 543 1533 Yonne: 544 2507. otherwise I plan to attend
PH 805.5433533 the vision Unida graduation at the Furum at 6:60PM.
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Tu: John Dunn
N LUIS OBISPO RonRegier
)YMPHONY From: Sandi sigurdson
re: Council Meeting on Cal Poly/PAC Parking structure
Yeatcrday I received a memo from Myra Heslop asking for Symphony support of the
parking suucture and encouraging attendance at the Council meeting. I faxed the memo
to all of our board members who have faxes. The Board has not formulated an official
"Symphony position"on the parking structure, sn whether ynu'd want my Personal
opinion(colored by my position with the Symphony)is dubious and not necers-krily
helpful to moving forward with the structure.
The saying goes"a little knowledge is a dangerous thing". Well,I have a little
knowledge.
Last season I had one complaint from one patron who was unable to find handicapped
parking at a Symphony concert. Ron handled that complaint beautifully and it's done.
in this season the"prnblcm"focaaes on the parking charge of$2.announced late and
with no perceived improvements in parldng.ARer our hisay fit and gracious meetings
with Cal Poly parking officials I haven't heard another word from patrons or musicians.
If I were to anend tonight's meeting I would may that the Symphony as a PAC client
would prefer covered walkways to the PAC for the weather protection of our musicium
and patrons. We would also prefer improved lighting and increased sense of safety in the
parking lot. Finally,we want to maintain easy access and egress. I would want to
encourage environmentally sound,fiscally responsible and community responsive
decision making, If all that can be done without spending S8 million and tearing up
PO BOX 6$8 Grund Avenue AGAIN.I'd be in favor of it.
But looking at alternatives is not what's before the Council tonight. A passionate cry for
SAN LUIS OBISPO the dire need of the parking structure(painfully colored by"the use or lose it"strings of
state spending)is what parking structure proponents need,and I'm not personally
prepared to do that.
CALIFORNIA 93406
Knowing my little bit of knowledge.if you want me to attend tonight,call and leave a
message and I'll be there. Work: 547 15.1.1 Iinme: 544 2SO7, Otherwise 1 plan to attend
PH 905.5133533 the vision Unida graduation at the Furum at 6:OOPM.
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Members of the City Council p- ❑PERS DIR
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Mayor Settle and Members of the City Council:
I write to urge your support of the new Garage proposed for the Performing Arts Center of San
Luis Obispo on the Cal Poly campus. Only the fact that I will be on a plane for England -- to see
my ailing 91 year-old mother-in-law— prevents me from being at the meeting in person.
I feel that, in my position as Executive Director of the Foundation for the Performing Arts
Center, I must speak out on behalf of our many supporters (over 2,000) whose generous gifts
made possible construction of the Center, and whose continuing support helps underwrite the
operations of the Center.
The expectation was always that, once the Center was completed, there would be adequate safe
parking near the Center. While parking lot on Grand Avenue meets the needs of staff and
students during the daytime, it is inadequate for our patrons at night, and presents many dangers.
Many of those attending performances at the Center are older citizens whose physical agility and
visual acuity are diminished. To walk several hundred yards in a dark parking lot, that is
unmarked, dimly lit, and lacks both a drop-off and pick-up area, presents many hazards.
Accidents have already occurred. More accidents may occur if the proposed structure is not built.
I urge you most strongly,therefore, to support the construction of the proposed parking garage
for the Performing Arts Center: it is critically needed.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
r
Myr,4 B. Heslop
Executive Director RECEIVED
DEC 0 2 1997
P.O. Box 1137
San Luis Obispo SLO CI';y COUNCIL
California,93406
805/541-5401
Fax 805/781-3484
MEETING AGENDA 3
DATE��q 71TEM #
C POLY
CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY
SAN Luis OBISPO, CA 93407
JOURNALISM DEPARTMENT
(805) 756.2508
December 2, 1997
Mayor Settle and Members of Council :
I want to lend my support to those public-spirited
citizens and officials of Cal Poly who have come out
in favor of the parking structure planned for Cal Poly
over the tennis courts.
It seems to me the time has come to bring this debate
to an end and allow the university to go ahead with a
much needed facility. The location has been amply
justified, especially in view of the fact that the
Cal Poly administration has taken all reasonable
steps possible to satisfy the demands of the opponents.
The parking structure will benefit the community as well
as the university, and I hope the dissidents, with all
due respect to their concerns, will come to that
conclusion.
The enclosed document should be of considerable help, I
trust, in helping the mayor and council decide to vote in
favor of the plan. .
Respectfully yours,
i r4*4�e
Herb Kamm
Lecturer
Journalism Department
D'.RDim
IR D E IFI.IRC MOUGE CHFnLDI RECEIVED
TIL DlR� ULL 02 1997
SLO CITY COUNCIL
THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY
CAL POLY REPORT
Page
October 29,1997
HOT T'DA(C' Of :THE:`WEEIC ` , : Tlcketson sale for
` 'The Imaginary Invalid'
Why build the parking garage where the tm&axwb are? Tickets are on sale for Moliere's
Why is the parking garage proposed tion.Leaving aside the cost to engineer "The Imaginary Invalid," the Theatre
to be built on the tennis-court site?The a structure in those conditions,the cost and Dance Department's opening pro-
question came up at a recent public fo- of excavating the area,which includes duction for the 1997-98 theater season.
rum and in news accounts. Facilities both dirt and rock,would be immense. The play will have six performances
Planning Director Bob Kitamura gives So why not build up along Grand in the Theatre,Nov. and 20-22.
these answers: Avenue,then?Is the view really that Directed " Departmeentnt C Chair Al
Schnu `"fhe Ima in Invalid"is a
Wasn't the structure originally important?Grand farce about a man with a million imagi-
supposed to be built along Gnd Av- Aside from the impact a tall structure nary ills who hopes to marry his daugh-
enue,across from Yosemite Hall? on Grand would have on students living ter off to a doctor in order to save
No. Original studies looked at many in the residence halls as well as Alta money on medical bills.
factors and identified the large,general Vista residents,the university strives to Thickets are$8 for the public and$7
area west of Grand as the area where create an attractive campus. An analysis for students and senior citizens.
parking was needed and feasible.The done several years ago proposed a land-
studies analyzed several specific sites, scaped corridor along Grand,leading up
including Grand Avenue,but there was to the Performing Arts Center and its
never a specific plan to build along plaza. A structure on Grand would for-
Grand itself.The First specific architec- ever preclude that possibility and give
tural plan located the garage on the ten- the campus a crowded,urban feeling the
nis-court site. administration would like to avoid. Dear Editor:
• . • • When I read the article about Kristy
Why was the present site chosen? We will address other campus questions Pena,it brought up for me something
Among many reasons,the three most you might have about the garage. Send that has been bothering me since I came
important are the geology, the cost,and your questions to the Cal Poly Report, on campus two years ago.It may also
the view.The geological conditions un- Communications Office, Heron Hall, bother others,so I thought I'd let you
der the Grand Avenue parking lots fax 6-6533;or e-mail polynews@ know.
would make to put it very difhe ficult —thus even ry polymail. If you'd like your questions or Often people's names here on cam-
comments to appear in the Report, tell pus that contain the Spanish letter"W'
one level underground there. us and we'll print them in our "Piece of are spelled with an English"n:'Al-
In reviewing the potential visual im- Mind„ section. though it is usually accepted casually, it
pact,the university had to consider the is technically incorrect.In the Spanish
effect on the residence halls,Vista Grande, alphabet there is a letter"n"and a letter
performing arts patrons,and visitors "11."People with the"N'in their names
coming into the campus's main entrance prefer to have it spelled with the correct
as well as the effect on the Alta Vista Please replace Spanish letter.
neighborhood.Because high costs would old logos with neW Thanks for listening to my little pet
require Cal Poly to build up,not down, You folks do an excellent job
along Grand,the university's position is lo reminder: Cal Poly has modified withgript
that the current site has the least visual its logo,and the new form should re- with the weekly Cal Poly Report.
impact c almost everyone involved, l place the old one as soon as practicable. Maybe my suggestion can help make it
eluding Alta Vista neighborhood residents The new logo has a bar under the even better.
words"Cal Poly"—as shown on the Gwen Chavarria
What are those costly geologic con- back of this Cal Poly Report. The old Human Resources
ditions?We built the Cohan Center logo had a thin line under the words and (Editors' Note: We appreciate your
next to Grand without undue geologi- an even thinner line above. bringing this to our attention and,when
cal problems or cost.Why not dig the The new logo also has a version that possible,will strive to include tildes and
garage into the ground,save the view, includes"San Luis Obispo"between the other symbols used with non-English
and make the neighbors happy'. "Cal Poly"and the bar for instances names and words. i Muchas gracias!)
The Cohan Center didn't raise the when you need to avoid confusion with
same questions.It wasn't built under- the Pomona campus. "Piece of Mind"is for your letters
ground.The problem along Grand is Supplies of material with the old in- about campus issues. Questions, expla-
that the area is the bottom,or"toe,"of signia may be used up but should not be nations compliments, complaints—we
-,an ancient landslide-Building on top of reprinted. Please review your Web sites; want them alL Keep them brief, but keep
an old landslide isn't a hazard because forms and other material to be sure the them coming. Or we'll start nagging.
the material has stabilized over centu- old logo isn't surviving in some forgot- Include name, department, and phone
ries.But when you cut into it,especially ten comer of our often cluttered world. number. Mail to the Communications
at the toe,you're compromising its sta- Questions? Call the Communica- Office, Heron Hall;fax to 6-6533;
bility and creating a dangerous situa- tions Office at ext.6-1511. e-mail to polynews@polymail.
'! e
MEETING AGENDA
'� ®`3
Alta Vista Neighborhood Association DATE ITEM !
P.O. Box 5412
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
L%�
o cbD DI3
December 1, 1997 ❑PIN D'1:i❑FIRE CFQ-PW DIR
❑POLICE CHF
City Council O REC DIR
City of San Luis Obispo p p�UTIL D R990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Council Members:
The Alta Vista Neighborhood Association (AVNA) requests the support and participation
of the City Council in preventing the construction of the Performing Arts Center parking
structure on the tennis court site at Cal Poly. Specifically, AVNA requests that the
Council of the City of San Luis Obispo, as a partner with Cal Poly State University in the
development and operation of the Performing Arts Center, write a letter to President
Warren Baker, with copies to the Board of Trustees of the California State University,
Chancellor Barry Munitz and Chancellor-elect Charles B. Reed supporting AVNA's
position of opposing building the garage on the tennis court site. Additionally, AVNA
requests that this letter be included in the Draft Environmental Impact Report(DEIR) and
be written in time to meet the December 8, 1997 deadline for public comment.
AVNA hopes that the City Council, operating within their jurisdiction as a partner in the
Performing Arts Center and in their capacity as representatives and protectors of city
neighborhoods, will choose to write a letter supporting AVNA's opposition to the site of
the parking structure for the following reasons:
1. The DEIR has determined that the parking structure will have significant detrimental
impacts on the environment. Table 7-1 from the DEIR(See Attached) confirms that
in every environmental category reviewed by the University's consultants, with the
exception of traffic circulation, the Alta Vista neighborhood will be significantly and
negatively impacted.
2. The parking structure, as it is presently envisaged, is vastly different from the structure
that was originally considered when the partnership agreement between the City of
San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly, and the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center was
created. Originally, the proposed parking garage was adjacent to the Performing Arts
Center and was architecturally consistent with the PAC. The plaza of the Performing
Arts Center presently provides a breathtaking view of the morros and the City of San
Luis Obispo, but if the parking garage were built, the view from the plaza would be of
a parking garage roof housing approximately 230 cars, stairwells and elevator towers
RECEIVED
DEC 0 1 1997
SLO CITY COUNCIL .
and numerous tall light poles. The original design was created with a sense of
aesthetic compatibility with the PAC and the surrounding vistas of San Luis Obispo.
What is now being considered for the tennis court site is an environmentally
insensitive, utilitarian, concrete box that violates the very essence of what the PAC
architect, Alberto Bertoldi, accomplished in his design of the PAC.
3. The parking garage on the tennis court site originally called for two entrances and
exits. One of the entrances and exits has now been eliminated. The remaining
entrance/exit will now have to service as many as 800 vehicles per event at the PAC.
The DEIR confirms that untimely delays and excessive amounts of CO (carbon
monoxide) inhalation upon entering and exiting the parking structure will occur. One
must question the advisability of subjecting patrons of the PAC to such inconveniences
and health risks when more than adequate surface parking already exists.
Furthermore, regular patrons of the PAC may choose to not attend subsequent
performances due to these risks and inconveniences, thus jeopardizing the City's
financial responsibility in the operation of the PAC.
4. The DEIR for the parking structure does not consider the impacts of other projects
proposed by Cal Poly along Grand Avenue from the entrance of the University at
Slack and Grand up to the Performing Arts Center. The California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) requires that projects should not be segmented and that
environmental considerations do not become submerged by chopping a large project
into many smaller ones. When more than one project in an area is being considered, in
this case the construction of a 936 car parking structure and the subsequent removal of
1400 surface parking spaces resulting in a reduction of approximately 500 spaces, an
obvious failure to comply with the"segmentation" rule has occurred. AVNA requests
that the City of San Luis Obispo, as a partner in the operation of the PAC, request
that Cal Poly expand the DEIR to consider the impacts of such a drastic change.
AVNA is grateful to you, the members of the City Council of San Luis Obispo, for
considering this request to oppose the location of the proposed parking struFlure for the
Performing Arts Center. We trust that the information presentahere for yopr
consideration accurately assesses the reasons for AVNA's deeply held concern that the
construction of the parking structure at Cal Poly would be an irreversible mistake.
Yours truly,
ffa4k- 1 4
Marlin D. Vix, President
Alta Vista Neighborhood Association
Table 7-1. Comparison of Alternatives to the Proposed Project
Pro os tl.:.,.,_ Grand A.
»:: Issue:''Arca:`r''.' ;z<; :;:';: ..,...�.::::.....::: •;. ..:, ..: :.:..:..::. _ q.` :.''.....
.........:.:.; ...
" :I.">:::' >>:':::>:Pro cct. ::3 : ''.r:Lo'catiori',':;'! ';';::`. 'I ocition: .. ::Alternative,.,.,.
Land Use/Recreation 3 3 2 1
Geologic Resources 2 4 5 1
Traffic and Circulation 3 3 4 4
Air Quality 4 4 4 1
Noise 2 2 2 1
Visual Resources 4 4 4 1
Public Safety 3 3 4 1
Overall 3.0 3.3 3.6 1.4
Ratings are shown on a scale of 1 to 5,midi 1 being minimal impacts,and 5 being substantial impacts.
MEETING AGENDA 0-COUNCIL Q_=DIR
CAL POLY REPORT DATA �97ITEM # -� MCI. 0 FFIRE CHIEF DIR
ar
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Page 2 CMERKFORIQ aUTMLm er ,1997
14 at J.a 13
NECE Of MIIV V
Parking Garage the Alta Vista neighborhood and the
Policies Dear Editor: campus.
Had we but world enough and The residents of the Alta Vista These environmental concerns may
time, verbosity, dear reader, were neighborhood to the south of the not move you to unconditionally sup-
no crime. university are painfully aware of the port the Alta Vista position,especially
But in the interests of space and exasperating parking problems that ex- if you are reading this after having just
fairness, we're setting policies for ist on the Cal Poly campus.They, too, spent 30 minutes looking for a parking
Cal Poly Report's letters-to-the- live with these problems every day. place and having parked in a remote
editor column, "Piece of Mind" Many Alta Vista residents are cur- area of campus because the ideal spot
starting next week: rent faculty,staff and students,just like you coveted was not available.
• First,tell us if you don't like you. Others have lived adjacent to the There are several other issues,how-
these policies. campus for more than 40 years, are ever, that may directly impact you:
• We usually won't publish letters now in their eighties, and have retired • Is the tennis court site for a parking
that repeat old information and from Cal Poly after decades of service structure where you want to park?The
opinions. to the university.These residents are money to build the parking structure is
• Unless we have good reasons, not uncaring, insensitive outsiders. your money: it came from parking fees
we won't print one writer's mis- They are your teachers, your col- paid by the students,staff and faculty
sives more than once every couple leagues,your neighbors and your of the CSU.These funds did not come
of months. We want to encourage a friends. from the state legislature, i.e., the tax-
wide range of correspondents. They want nothing more than to see payers of the state of California.
• Brevity is the soul of wit. Don't the parking shortage problem resolved, Shouldn't the site of a parking garage
be
Brevity
is Letters should be but they also fervently believe that be for your convenience and use and
be half0 words long unless we be- building a parking structure on the ten- not for the primary benefit of the pa-
come convinced they shouldn't. nis courts is an inappropriate and envi- trons of the Performing Arts Center.
ronmentally devastating solution to the After all,you paid for it; they did not.
• Letters should address campus problem. The reasons for their opposi- • Will the construction of a parking
.policies and practices; we won't tion to the parking structure are: garage on the south side of campus
publish personal attacks. • Air pollution will increase-at times magically make available that parking
• We'll edit letters to conform by up to 50 percent in excess of space you prize so dearly on the north
with journalistic style and;-when California's CO (carbon monoxide) end of campus?
needed,to make them shorter. standards. • If a parking structure were built, re-
We'll talk to writers before their • Traffic will increase significantly as gardless of its location, parking fees
letters appear if we plan to alter commuters attempt to avoid congestion would go up$6 per quarter.Wouldn't
them substantially. Alter the let- at the entrance to a garage on Grand you question the fairness of a practice
ters,that is. Avenue by seeking shortcuts through which uses your money to build a park-
* We'II tell writers when we refuse the Alta Vista neighborhood. ing structure and then raises your park-
to print their letters because they • Crime may increase. ing fees,even if you continue to use a
are in bad taste.The letters, that is. • Noise from various sources—car surface parking lot?
• When a letter cries out for an alarms, squealing tires,horns—will in- • Will an increase in parking spaces
official response, we'll find some- crease. send a signal to those who currently
one to reply and publish the two • Glare from the parking structure ride the bus, ride their bikes,car pool or
pieces side-by-side. lights and car lights cannot be walk, to start driving their cars to
• We want readers to get balanced mitigated adequately. school?Will the short-term benefit of
information.We'll solicit adminis- • Views will be impaired. increased parking spaces ultimately
tration answers to questions on • Already limited athletic facilities have only negligible impact as more
university policies and practices. will be eliminated. people begin driving to school believ-
We'll ask Academic Senate leaders • And yes,property values will more ing that it will now be easier to find a
to reply to questions about that or- than likely go down. parking space?
ganization, ASI leaders to tackle Their concerns are no longer merely To merely point out the problems
questions about that student group, unfounded fears; they are now substan- without offering potential remedies
deans to respond to questions tiated by data contained in the Parking would be inappropriate and irrespon-
about their colleges, etc. Structure Draft Environmental Impact sible. The following suggestions are
You may fire when you are Report issued on Oct. 20.The parking meant to be a starting point for discus-
ready,Gridley. structure, without any doubt, will create sion and not intended to be the deftni-
-The Editors enormous environmental problems for tive list of options.
(Continued on page 3)
CAL POLY REPORT
November 19.1997 Page 3
. . MORE PIECE Of MIND
(Cont.from page 2) Dear Editor: merit, who has been in charge of the
Cal Poly could: I have reviewed Dr. Vix's remarks Sheep Unit for many years,said studies
• Devote an appropriate amount of about the proposed parking structure showed that contaminants did not come
money to upgrade the G-1 lot to make written on behalf of some of the resi- from the sheep operation.
it more user-friendly and attractive for dents of the Alta Vista neighborhood, Cal Poly has not been cited for pol-
patrons of the Performing Arts Center. and I will make sure that the adminis- lution, which is considered "normal" in
Improving existing landscaping, light. tration also considers what he has said. a watershed containing farm and live-
Improving
and signage, constructing covered The proposed parking structure's de- stock enterprises, Kitamura said.
walkways, and providing a shuttle tram sign and landscaping plus thoughtful Nevertheless, the university will
traffic control will, I believe, mitigate continue to work with the College of
system may individually and collet- any negative impact this new building Agriculture and other groups to further
Lively be beneficial. would have on the campus and commu- mitigate ecological concerns. including
• Schedule events in the PAC, Mott nity. any that may be connected to the new
Gym,and the Recreation Center so that Also,while parking is often tight Sports Complex.
there is only an occassional overlap of throughout the entire core campus dur-
events, thus reducing evening parking Dan Howard-Greene
shortages. ing peak hours of operation, auniver- Executive Assistant to the President
space sity study has determined that additional
• Offersh prime parking locations to
spaces are critically needed in the
those with two or more riders per car.
• Offer discount parking fees to those southern half the campus.
with two or more riders per car. The new parking structure will alle-
viate some frustrating parking prob-
e Provide a tram system to take com- lems; however, the university will Exhibits
muters to the inner perimeter of campus continue to seek alternatives such as • University Art Gallery: Thai Vi-
from the outlying surface parking lots. ride sharing, subsidized busing,and sions I, through Dec.4.
• Continue the bus subsidy. new parking lot and roadway configu- • UU Galerie "The Shape of Things,"
• Construct a parking structure for rations to help us meet present and fu- two-dimensional mixed media by
dorm residents and leave surface park- ture parking needs. Charlene Vidito Knowlton and sculp-
ing for the commuters since many of ture b Ken Bortolazzo, through Dec.5.
the dorm residents do not use their cars Bob Kitamura y g
on a daily basis. Director of Facilities Planning
• Construct a parking structure on the
H-2 parking lot across from the library,
a site that is central to the greatest num-
ber of classrooms, labs and offices and
with access from both Grand and High- Sheep Unit Thanksgiving changes
land avenues. Dear Editor: Repot deadline
I stated in the Cal Pole Report two
The time for public review of the weeks ago that the Sheep Unit near the Because of the upcoming holiday
Draft Environmental Impact Report proposed Sports Complex will be reloand the approaching quarter break, we
ends Dec. 8. If you have concerns cated to make way for the new recre- are changing the deadline schedule for
about the parking structure,please con- the Cal Poly Report.The deadline to
"
ation fields,and the unit would have
tact Robert Kitamura,director of facili- submit articles for the Wednesday,
ties planning. been moved anyway because of polluDec. 3, edition of the Cal Poly Report
Solutions to Cal Poly's parking tion problems.' is noon,Tuesday, Nov.25.
The statement contains an inaccu-
problems,other than building a parking racy I would like to correct. The final fall quarter issue will be
structure on the tennis courts,can be The university will be better served out Wednesday, Dec. 10. Articles for
found in ways that are more advanta- as the campus core expands if the
that issue need to be submitted by 10 am
geous to the needs of the campus com- Thursday, Dec. 4.
munity and not detrimental to the envi- Sheep Unit is relocated, an action ap- The Cal Poly Report is not pub-
provcd by the College of Agriculture
ronment and the neighbors to the southlished during quarter break.
and the faculty assigned to the unit.
of campus.It is hoped that the univer- We will resume publishing on
As for pollution, Regional Water
sity will take a courageous and boldQuality Control Board studies found
Wednesday with the first winter quarter
first step in finding the correct solutioncontamination in Brizzolara Creek from
issue on Jan.7. Please submit items for
to the parking structure dilemma. that issue by 10 am Tuesday, Dec. 30.
agricultural and livestock operations,
Marlin D.Vix, professor according to Bob Kitamura,director of Items can be e-mailed to polynews@
Agribusiness Department facilities planning. However, Rob polymail, faxed to 6-6533,or mailed to
Rutherford, Animal Science Depart- the Communications Office,Heron Hall.
For more information call cxi.6-1511.
11/25/97 17:02 W805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VFA&F WIUU1
rEb3CJrERYJORIQ
mft DIR MEETING AGENDA
p FIN DIR DATE ITEM #
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SAN I-= Otslspo, CA 93407
ADm=Ta.&noN 6t FWANCE DIVISION
(805) 756.2171 Fax: (805) 756-7560
November 25, 1997
post-it°Fax Note 7671 Date I �°ga,► p
To /1 !1 From F
CoJDePL C R co L V
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San Luis Obispo City Council Fax R Faic
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Mayor Settle and Members of the City Council:
Prior business commitments preclude my attendance at the December 2, 1997 meeting
of the City Council at which time, I understand, the City Council will be considering
Alta Vista Neighborhood Association objections to the parking structure on the Cal
Poly campus. I would like to use this means to share with the City leadership both the
rationale for the University proceeding with the parking structure and the efforts taken
to date to address neighborhood and campus concerns.
It should be noted that the structure is one of several steps in the master planting
process of the University to address long term circulation and parking concerns. The
current land use diagram calls for structures at the primary entry points to the campus
in the vicinity of Grand Avenue, California Boulevard, and Highland Drive. Without
adequate parking, the campus has experienced frequent situations where individuals
seeking a parking space have had to circle the campus for at times up to 20 or 30
minutes, thereby only adding to parking problems and the potential for air pollution.
In fact, the campus has suffered a net loss of parking spaces-since 1990. The site near
Grand Avenue was given priority because of the disproportionate loss of spaces in the
southern half of campus and concentration of high density uses in the southeast
quadrant of the campus; these include the Cal Poly Theatre, Chumash Auditorium in
the University Union Building, Mott Gymnasium, the Performing Arts Center, and the
Recreational Sports complex.
The campus has followed a rigorous process in selecting a location for the proposed
parking structure. The specific site location and design were deemed the preferred one
for geological, financial, and aesthetic reasons. The alternative placement of the
facility on surface parking immediately south of the Performing Arts Center would
elevate the structure in such a manner that it would be visible as far away as some
17,/25/97 17:02 '2805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VP,1&F
points on Highway 101. In addition, the geology of that site would place the structure
at the toe of an ancient landslide which if disturbed could, in fact, trigger unpredictable
and potentially undesirable geological consequences. This site also presents financial
challenges, in that in order to minimize the aesthetic disadvantages that come with the
height of the facility, a substantial cut in earth would have to be made adding to the
cost.
Early in the process when the negative declaration was publicly noticed, the Alta Vista
Neighborhood Association pointed out their concern that the wording of public notice
lacked adequacy in description of the site. This prompted legal action by that body, as
well as a number of discussions with the University. Even prior to a legal settlement,
the University had acceded to nearly all of the provisions proposed in the legal
settlement including specific environmental mitigations involving traffic, landscaping,
and lighting.
Credit is due to the Alta Vista Neighborhood Association for expressing concerns that
helped define and refine these mitigations. As with most any project, not all issues can
be resolved to the satisfaction of all parties, but we feel that the University has clearly
and aggressively made modifications to the facility design and in the development of
traffic management that will result in traffic emptying onto Grand Avenue in much the
same volume and manner that is currently experienced at event dismissal time from
existing surface parking onto Grand Avenue_ Further, the University has agreed to
closure of Pacheco Way as an egress point, except for very limited and predefined
circumstances involving residence hall move-in and emergencies. The University also
has agreed to limiting egress from the parking structure onto Hathway Avenue only for
bona fide emergency purposes and the deletion of a planned surface parking lot in this
area. The landscape plan also takes into consideration efforts to soften the effects of
the building and paving in response to neighborhood aesthetic concerns.
In summary, it is important to recognize the extraordinary efforts to which the
University has gone in attempting to respond to a multiplicity of concerns from a
variety of sources. The structure as planned is 400 feet from the closest residence.
We have sought input from, responded to, and in many cases implemented measures
that are sensitive to the concerns of community members as well as on-campus
constituencies. We have gone far beyond legal requirements in conducting forums to
solicit and act upon input; and, as a consequence, we feel that we have acted most
responsibly. We understand that not all parties can or will be satisfied with any
solution to the challenges we face in addressing the parking needs of the campus. At
the same time, the University continues its commitment to being among the most
responsible entities in the county in encouraging alternative means of transportation,
thereby minimizing the need for on-campus parking.
11/25/87 17:03 $805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VPAB:F 10003
Enclosed with this letter is a partial listing of the mitigation measures taken to date, as
well as a previously published list of questions and answers related to the proposed
structure. We remain committed to our responsibility to the community and are
confident that the efforts taken to date relative to this construction project have been
consistent with that spirit of responsibility. In my absence, Vicki Stover, Associate
Vice President for Administration, will be available for further comment at your
meeting.
Sincerely,
Frank Lebens
Vice President for Administration & Finance
Enclosure
cc: W. Baker
R. Kitamura
V. Stover
1 /25/97 17:03 $805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VPA&F Wa00 A.�
ENCLOSURE 1
MITIGATION MEASURES - CAL POLY PARXING STRUCTURE
11/25/97
1. Trustees agree to prepare an "Environmental Impact Report"
2. Noise Control: Primary haul route onto construction site shall be from Grand Avenue to Slack
Street; not Longview Lane or Rathway Avenue. Stockpiling and vehicle staging areas to be as far as
practical from occupied structures. Minimize noise exposure periods. Construction Hours: Project
construction activities that generate noise in excess of 60 dB at the project site shall be limited
to the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Non-squeal paving materials will be used at the interior driving
surfaces of the parking structure to reduce the potential for tire squealing.
3. Air Quality, Equipment Emission Control Measures: Heavy construction equipment certified to meet
the 1996 Federal NO, standard. The primary tractor and scraper shall meet Federal standards.
4. Dust Control Measures: During grading, each day water truck or sprinkler system to wet down site,
whenever wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour wet down dust prone areas. Grading and scraping
operations shall be suspended when one hour average wind speed exceeds 20 mph_
5. Interior Signage and Safety Markings: Clear visible aignage.
6. Crosswalk Markings and Signage: Provisions for pedestrian access between parking structure and
surrounding uses. The design would include an overpass to the Performing Arce Center.
7. Visual Resources: Good mousekeeping Plan shall include the on-site locations for materials and
equipment storage, schedule for debris removal, and proposed screening mechanisms.
a. Interior Lighting: To be directed internally with lamp cut-off" shields.
9_ Exterior Lighting: Landscape illumination shall use low level, unobtrusive fixtures.
10. Landscape Design: Planting areas must be incorporated into the project design to soften the effect
of the building and paving, landscaping shall not encourage hiding places adjacent to the structure
that could pose a security risk.
11. Elimination of the planned 159 space parking lot addition at Lot G-2 in accordance with the Alta
Vista Neighborhood Association Agreement.
12 Non vehicular ingress/egress from the parking structure onto Rathway or Longview, except for
emergency use.
13. No through traffic from Pacheco way, except during fall quarter move-in and emergency use.
14. No additional parking (surface or structural) other than the Project resulting from the current EIR
process will be built in the immediate area bounded by Longview, Slack, and Pacheco Avenue for a
period of 5 years.
15. Traffic Management Plan: Reduce congestion as part of the Event Parking Traffic Management Plan.
Traffic control personnel to facilitate traffic flow before and after events. Establish a parking
fee collection plan.
16. See item 3.5.3 Alta Vista Neighborhood Association Agreement page 3-15 of the Draft Environmental
Impact Report revised October 1997 for additional agreements.
1
r •11/25/97 17:04 $805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VPA&F wiU05
ENCLOSURE 2
General Information - Cal Poly Parking Structure
What's happening with the parking garage?
The Draft Environmental Impact report is being reviewed by the public. After the public comments are
received the Engineers and Architects will update the Construction Documents.
Is the legal problem solved?
The Environmental Impact Report is being prepared as required and the agreement with the Alta vista
Neighborhood Association is included in the EIR.
Are the neighbors happy, and is it now full steam ahead?
There are people that support the project and others that disapprove. Cal Poly is proceeding with the
project one step at a time based on the information developed during the EIR process.
What's the next step?
The Environmental Impact Report is expected to be certified in January.
When will construction start?
Construction is scheduled to begin in April of 1998.
When will it be ready?
The Project is scheduled for completion in March of 1999.
will we lose parking during construction?
During construction up to 150 parking spaces may be temporarily lost.
How many spaces will we gain when it's done?
The parking structure's capacity is 936 vehicles, this would provide 786 additional parking spaces for
students, visitors, staff, fatuity and public events.
What will it look like?
The parking structure is a three-story facility with four levels of parking. The stzueture will be
reinforced concrete. The majority of the exterior walls will be open, this reduces the mass, improves
security, and saves money by reducing lighting and utility costs. Landscaping will be incorporated into
the project that compliments the building without blocking ridge top views.
Will it be safe in an earthquake?
The parking structure will be constructed in full compliance with the uniform Building Code, Health and
safety Code, and all seismic safety requirements.
where will cars enter and exit?
Car will enter and exit the parking structure from Grand Avenue.
Will it be just for the PAC?
The parking structure will be used by students, visitors, staff, faculty, and for special events at the
Performing Arts Center and other campus activities.
What's happening to the tennis courts?
Six tennis courts would be removed during construction.
will new courts be ready before we lose the existing ones?
The four existing tennis courts located on the west side of the parking structure would remain. Three
new tennis will be added adjacent to the existing tennis courts. Three of the new tennis courts are
scheduled to be built during the construction phase of the parking structure or when funds axe available.
Is the Alternate Site for the parking structure at Grand Avenue on lose fill or rock?
The Geotechnical Engineers report indicates that both loose fill and hard to very hard rock materials were
encountered at the landslide deposit located at the Alternate Site, requiring blasting and/or hammering to
assist in rock excavation.
11/25/97 17:04 V805 756 7560 CPSU-SLO: VPA&F WIE00=
Article from Cal Poly Report 10/29/97
why build the parking garage where the tennis courts are?
Why is the parking garage proposed to be built on the tennis-court site? The question came up at a recen�
public forum and in news accounts. Facilities Planning Director Bob Kitamura gives these answers:
Wasn't the structure originally supposed to be built along Grand Avenue, across from Yosemite Hall?
No. original studies looked at many factors and identified the large, general area west of Grand as the
area where parking was needed and feasible. The studies analyzed several specific sites, including Grand
Avenue, but there was never a specific plan to build along Grand itself. The first specific architectural
plan located the garage on the tennis-court site.
Why was the present site chosen?
Among many reasons, the three most important are the geology, the cost, and the view. The geological
conditions under the Grand Avenue parking lots would make it very difficult-thus very expensive-to put the
structure even one level underground there.
In reviewing the potential visual impact, the university had to consider the effect on the
residence halls, Vista Grande, performing arts patrons, and visitors coming into the campus's main
entrance as well as the effect on the Alta Vista neighborhood. Because high costs would require Cal Poly
to build up, not down, along Grand, the university's position is that the current site has the least
visual impact on almost everyone involved, including Alta Vista neighborhood residents_
What are those costly geologic conditions? We built the Cohan Center next to Grand without undue
geological problems or cost. Why not dig the garage into the ground, save the view, and make the
neighbors happy?
The Cohan Center didn't raise the same questions. It wasn't built underground. The problem along
Grand is that the area is the bottom, or "toe," of an ancient landslide. Building on top of an old
landslide isn't a hazard because the material has stabilized over centuries. But when you cut into it,
especially at the coe, you're compromising its stability and creating a dangerous situation. Leaving
aside the cost to engineer a structure in those conditions, the cost of excavating the area, which
includes both dirt and rock, would be immense.
So why not 'build up along Grand Avenue, then? Is the view really that important?
Aside from the impact a call structure on Grand would have on students living in the residence
halls as well as Alta Vista residents, the university strives to create an attractive campus. An analysis
done several years ago proposed a landscaped corridor along Grand, leading up to the Performing Arts
Center and its plaza. A structure on Grand would forever preclude that possibility and give the campus a
crowded, urban feeling the administration would like to avoid.
1
* _1,
CALPOLY r�EETlo�c AGENDA
DATEITEM #
CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY
SANLuis Omrc, CA 93407
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE DIVISION
(805) 756-2171 FAX: (805) 756-7560
November 25, 1997 9 -01 tD rna
p.P4�DIR
ORIG ❑POLICE CRF
❑REC DIR
❑UTIL DIR
13 PERS DIR
San Luis Obispo City Council
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Mayor Settle and Members of the City Council:
Prior business commitments preclude my attendance at the December 2, 1997 meeting
of the City Council at which time, I understand, the City Council will be considering
Alta Vista Neighborhood Association objections to the parking structure on the Cal
Poly campus. I would like to use this means to share with the City leadership both the
rationale for the University proceeding with the parking structure and the efforts taken
to date to address neighborhood and campus concerns.
It should be noted that the structure is one of several steps in the master planning
process of the University to address long term circulation and parking concerns. The
current land use diagram calls for structures at the primary entry points to the campus
in the vicinity of Grand Avenue, California Boulevard, and Highland Drive. Without
adequate parking, the campus has experienced frequent situations where individuals
seeking a parking space have had to circle the campus for at times up to 20 or 30
minutes, thereby only adding to parking problems and the potential for air pollution.
In fact, the campus has suffered a net loss of parking spaces since 1990. The site near
Grand Avenue was given priority because of the disproportionate loss of spaces in'the
southern half of campus and concentration of high density uses in the southeast
quadrant of the campus; these include the Cal Poly Theatre, Chumash Auditorium in
the University Union Building, Mott Gymnasium, the Performing Arts Center, and the
Recreational Sports complex.
The campus has followed a rigorous process in selecting a location for the proposed
parking structure. The specific site location and design were deemed the preferred one
for geological, financial, and aesthetic reasons. The alternative placement of the
facility on surface parking immediately south of the Performing Arts Center would
elevate the structure in such a manner that it would be visible as far away as some
RECEIVED
DEC 0 1 1997
THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SLO C711 nOUNCIL .
points on Highway 101. In addition, the geology of that site would place the structure
at the toe of an ancient landslide which if disturbed could, in fact, trigger unpredictable
and potentially undesirable geological consequences. This site also presents financial
challenges, in that in order to minimize the aesthetic disadvantages that come with the
height of the facility, a substantial cut in earth would have to be made adding to the
cost.
Early in the process when the negative declaration was publicly noticed, the Alta Vista
Neighborhood Association pointed out their concern that the wording of public notice
lacked adequacy in description of the site. This prompted legal action by that body, as
well as a number of discussions with the University. Even prior to a legal settlement,
the University had acceded to nearly all of the provisions proposed in the legal
settlement including specific environmental mitigations involving traffic, landscaping,
and lighting.
Credit is due to the Alta Vista Neighborhood Association for expressing concerns that
helped define and refine these mitigations. As with most any project, not all issues can
be resolved to the satisfaction of all parties, but we feel that the University has clearly
and aggressively made modifications to the facility design and in the development of
traffic management that will result in traffic emptying onto Grand Avenue in much the
same volume and manner that is currently experienced at event dismissal time from
existing surface parking onto Grand Avenue. Further, the University has agreed to
closure of Pacheco Way as an egress point, except for very limited and predefined
circumstances involving residence hall move-in and emergencies. The University also
has agreed to limiting egress from the parking structure onto Hathway Avenue only for
bona fide emergency purposes and the deletion of a planned surface parking lot in this
area. The landscape plan also takes into consideration efforts to soften the effects of
the building and paving in response to neighborhood aesthetic concerns.
In summary, it is important to recognize the extraordinary efforts to which the
University has gone in attempting to respond to a multiplicity of concerns from a
variety of sources. The structure as planned is 400 feet from the closest residence.
We have sought input from, responded to, and in many cases implemented measures
that are sensitive to the concerns of community members as well as on-campus
constituencies. We have gone far beyond legal requirements in conducting forums to
solicit and act upon input; and, as a consequence, we feel that we have acted most
responsibly. We understand that not all parties can or will be satisfied with any
solution to the challenges we face in addressing the parking needs of the campus. At
the same time, the University continues its commitment to being among the most
responsible entities in the county in encouraging alternative means of transportation,
thereby minimizing the need for on-campus parking.
Enclosed with this letter is a partial listing of the mitigation measures taken to date, as
well as a previously published list of questions and answers related to the proposed
structure. We remain committed to our responsibility to the community and are
confident that the efforts taken to date relative to this construction project have been
consistent with that spirit of responsibility. In my absence, Vicki Stover, Associate
Vice President for Administration, will be available for further comment at your
meeting.
Sincerely,
Frank Lebens
Vice President for Administration & Finance
Enclosure
cc: W. Baker
R. Kitamura
V. Stover
ENCLOSURE 1
MITIGATION MEASURES - CAL POLY PARKING STRUCTURE
11/25/97
1. Trustees agree to prepare an "Environmental Impact Report"
2. Noise Control: Primary haul route onto construction site shall be from Grand Avenue to Slack
Street; not Longview Lane or Hathway Avenue. Stockpiling and vehicle staging areas to be as far as
practical from occupied structures. Minimize noise exposure periods. Construction Hours: Project
construction activities that generate noise in excess of 60 dB at the project site shall be limited
to the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Non-squeal paving materials will be used at the interior driving
surfaces of the parking structure to reduce the potential for tire squealing.
3. Air Quality, Equipment Emission Control Measures: Heavy construction equipment certified to meet
the 1996 Federal NO, standard. The primary tractor and scraper shall meet Federal standards.
4. Dust Control Measures: During grading, each day water truck or sprinkler system to wet down site,
whenever wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour wet down dust prone areas. Grading and scraping
operations shall be suspended when one hour average wind speed exceeds 20 mph.
5. Interior Signage and Safety Markings: Clear visible signage.
6. Crosswalk Markings and Signage: Provisions for pedestrian access between parking structure and
surrounding uses. The design would include an overpass to the Performing Arts Center.
7. visual Resources': Good Housekeeping Plan shall include the on-site locations for materials and
equipment storage, schedule for debris removal, and proposed screening mechanisms.
s. Interior Lighting: To be directed internally with lamp "cut-off" shields.
9. Exterior Lighting: Landscape illumination shall use low level, unobtrusive fixtures.
10. Landscape Design; Planting areas must be incorporated into the project design to soften the effect
of the building and paving, landscaping shall not encourage hiding places adjacent to the structure
that could pose a security risk.
11. Elimination of the planned 159 space parking lot addition at Lot G-2 in accordance with the Alta
Vista Neighborhood Association Agreement.
12 Non vehicular ingress/egress from the parking structure onto Hathway or Longview, except for
emergency use.
13. No through traffic from Pacheco Way, except during fall quarter move-in and emergency use.
14. No additional parking (surface or structural) other than the Project resulting from the current EIR
process will be built in the immediate area bounded by Longview, Slack, and Pacheco Avenue for a
period of 5 years.
15. Traffic Management Plan: Reduce congestion as part of the Event Parking Traffic Management Plan.
Traffic control personnel to facilitate traffic flow before and after events. Establish a parking
fee collection plan.
16. See item 3.5.3 Alta Vista Neighborhood Association Agreement page 3-15 of the Draft Environmental
Impact Report revised October 1997 for additional agreements.
1
N�
ENCLOSURE Z
General Information - Cal Poly Parking Structure
What's happening with the parking garage?
The Draft Environmental Impact report is being reviewed by the public. After the public comments are
received the Engineers and Architects will update the Construction Documents.
Is the legal problem solved?
The Environmental Impact Report is being prepared as required and the agreement with the Alta vista
Neighborhood Association is included in the EIR.
Are the neighbors happy, and is it now full steam ahead?
There are people that support the project and others that disapprove. Cal Poly is proceeding with the
project one step at a time based on the information developed during the EIR process.
What's the next step?
The Environmental Impact Report is expected to be certified in January.
When will construction start?
Construction is scheduled to begin in April of 1998.
When will it be ready?
The Project is scheduled for completion in March of 1999.
Will we lose parking during construction?
During construction up to 150 parking spaces may be temporarily lost.
How many spaces will we gain when it's done?
The parking structure's capacity is 936 vehicles, this would provide 786 additional parking spaces for
students, visitors, staff, faculty and public events.
What will it look like?
The parking structure is a three-story facility with four levels of parking. The structure will be
reinforced concrete. The majority of the exterior walls will be open, this reduces the mass, improves
security, and saves money by reducing lighting and utility costs. Landscaping will be incorporated into
the project that compliments the building without blocking ridge top views.
Will it be safe in an earthquake?
The parking structure will be constructed in full compliance with the Uniform Building Code, Health and
Safety Code, and all seismic safety requirements.
Where will cars enter and exit?
Car will enter and exit the parking structure from Grand Avenue.
Will it be just for the PAC?
The parking structure will be used by students, visitors, staff, faculty, and for special events at the
Performing Arts Center and other campus activities.
What's happening to the tennis courts?
Six tennis courts would be removed during construction.
Will new courts be ready before we lose the existing ones?
The four existing tennis courts located on the west side of the parking structure would remain. Three
new tennis will be added adjacent to the existing tennis courts. Three of the new tennis courts are ,
scheduled to be built during the construction phase of the parking structure or when funds are available.
Is the Alternate Site for the parking structure at Grand Avenue on lose fill or rock?
The Geotechnical Engineers report indicates that both loose fill and hard to very hard rock materials were
encountered at the landslide deposit located at the Alternate Site, requiring blasting and/or hammering to
assist in rock excavation.
1
Article from Cal Poly Report 10/29/97
Why build the parking garage where the tennis courts are?
Why is the parking garage proposed to be built on the tennis-court site? The question came up at a recent
public forum and in news accounts. Facilities Planning Director Bob Kitamura gives these answers:
Wasn't the structure originally supposed to be built along Grand Avenue, across from Yosemite Hall?
No. Original studies looked at many factors and identified the large, general area west of Grand as the
area where parking was needed and feasible. The studies analyzed several specific sites, including Grand
Avenue, but there was never a specific plan to build along Grand itself. The first specific architectural
plan located the garage on the tennis-court site.
Why was the present site chosen?
Among many reasons, the three most important are the geology, the cost, and the view. The geological
conditions under the Grand Avenue parking lots would make it very difficult-thus very expensive-to put the
structure even one level underground there.
In reviewing the potential visual impact, the university had to consider the effect on the
residence halls, Vista Grande, performing arts patrons, and visitors coming into the campus's main
entrance as well as the effect on the Alta Vista neighborhood. Because high costs would require Cal Poly
to build up, not down, along Grand, the university's position is that the current site has the least
visual impact on almost everyone involved, including Alta Vista neighborhood residents.
What are those costly geologic conditions? We built the Cohan Center next to Grand without undue
geological problems or cost. Why not dig the garage into the ground, save the view, and make the
neighbors happy?
The Cohan Center didn't raise the same questions. It wasn't built underground. The problem along
Grand is that the area is the bottom, or "toe," of an ancient landslide. Building on top of an old
landslide isn't a hazard because the material has stabilized over centuries. But when you cut into it,
especially at the toe, you're compromising its stability and creating a dangerous situation. Leaving
aside the cost to engineer a structure in those conditions, the cost of excavating the area, which
includes both dirt and rock, would be immense.
So why not build up along Grand Avenue, then? Is the view really that important?
Aside from the impact a tall structure on Grand would have on students living in the residence
halls as well as Alta Vista residents, the university strives to create an attractive campus. An analysis
done several years ago proposed a landscaped corridor along Grand, leading up to the Performing Arts
Center and its plaza. A structure on Grand would forever preclude that possibility and give the campus a
crowded, urban feeling the administration would like to avoid.
1
MrglNG AN= 3 .
ITEM #
219 Albert Drive November 28, 1997
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 544-7004
Frol
❑tVD DIR
Allen Settle, Mayor o FIN D•R
❑FIRE CHI2;
Bill Roalman, Dave Romero, Kathy Smith &Dodie Williams ORNEY arpfDfR
Members of the San Luis Obispo City Council RK/ORfa ❑POLICE CHF
❑REC DIR
O UTIL D1R
Re: Support for Performing Arts Center Parking Structure ❑PERS DIR
Dear Mayor Settle and Members of the City Council:
We reside at 219 Albert Drive in the Alta Vista neighborhood near the Performing Arts Center-
close enough to easily walk to performances.
We favor the construction of a parking structure to serve the Performing Arts Center and other on-
campus functions. We perceive that the mitigation measures for the"tennis court" location offer
reasonable protection of our neighborhood. Our neighborhood is by far more adversely impacted
by the absence of adequate parking for the Performing Arts Center and other on-campus functions
than it will be impacted by the parking structure.
A group calling themselves"Alta Vista Neighborhood Association"claims to represent our
neighborhood. Their claims to represent us are illegitimate. Their opposition to the building of a
parking structure at the"tennis court" location -and in reality anywhere, certainly do not represent
our interests or priorities. We have spoken with our immediate neighbors, and have found not
even one of them in accord with the position advocated by"Alta Vista Neighborhood Association."
"Alta Vista Neighborhood Association" is a minority group formed to oppose the construction of a
parking structure which is required to serve the Performing Arts Centers, and which additionally will
serve other on-campus functions. Their opposition to the"tennis count" location is the immediate
tactic in their fundamental opposition to the construction of any parking structure to serve the
Performing Arts Center.
When "Alta Vista Neighborhood Association" advocates positions to the City Council, please
request evidence of its membership. Please evaluate the legitimacy of its claim to represent the
Alta Vista neighborhood. Ask their spokesperson(s) if residents in the neighborhood are opposed
to their positions and their claims to represent the neighborhood -we have expressed our
objections to Professor Vix, its President.
Sincerely yours,
Dougla§'R. & Betty Pierce
Novembes2e hand-delivered°Ala Vis a Neighboihoodgesocia ion"le es
RECEIVED
D t C 0 1 1997
SLO CITY COUNCIL
November 28, 1997
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
On Tuesday, December 2 at 7:00 p.m., the City Council is
meeting at the City Hall to consider supporting AVNA's
objections to the tennis court location of the parking structure for
the Performing Arts Center. AVNA has reason to believe that the
City Council may be willing to support AVNA's position that the
parking structure creates environmental conditions that cannot be
adequately mitigated.
It is important that there is a large turnout for this meeting in order
to show the depth of AVNA's commitment to stopping this
project. AVNA is third on the agenda so plan to arrive early.
If you need a ride to the meeting, please call Cindy Vix at 544-
7428 or Sherry Lewis at 544-8346.
Yours truly,
Alta Vista Neighborhood Association
Marlin D. Vix, President
Don Woollard, Vice President
Sherry Lewis, Secretary - Treasurer
MEETING / /,,,, AGENDA
DATE J= =�L ITEM # 3
DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Parking Structure I
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo
R
UEC 0 2 1991
SLO CITY COUNCIL
August 1997 �O'VCI` j
�AC�O
revised October 1997 E]Imwo NV
E�KlORIO
o�anlr
SCH Number 95051007 0 --
1
1 THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY
OFFICE OF THE CHANCELLOR
400 GOLDEN SHORE LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA 90802-4275
. • L
3.0 Project Description
3.5.3 Alta Vista Neighborhood Association Agreement
IM As part of the agreement with the Alta Vista Neiph'-orhood Association, Cal Poly (by
the Board of Trugtees) agreed to several measures that N\ill reduce impacts to the surrounding
area. These measures are set forth below and incorporated into the project description.
1) TRUSTEES will agree to implement the follov.in_ mitigation measures as outlined by
TRUSTEE Staff at a community meeting held on June 10. 1996, at the Albert B.
Smith Alumni and Conference Center as pan or the development of any parking
structure that may be built to serve the Performin., .Arts Center. The TRUSTEES
shall not be obligated to implement these mitiga7. on measures unless the parking
structure built at the conclusion of the EIR proce_s is located within 300 yards of
Hathway. Slack, or Longview Avenues.
a) Elimination of the planned 159-space parkir:g lot addition at Lot G-2.
b) No vehicular ingress/egress from the pa"'ing structure onto Hathway or
Longview, except for emergency use. "Emer_ency" in this section and section
(c) below, shall be defined to be "an occurrence involving a clear and
imminent danger demanding action to pre%ent or mitigate loss of. or damage
to, life, health. property. or essential public ser. ices." .
am
c) Into through traffic from Pacheco Way exceo: during fall quarter move-in for
the resident halls.. spring quarter Open House, and for emergency use (as
defined in section b) above).
d) During major events on campus, special signage and traffic control measures
will be in place. This includes directing traffic toward Grand Avenue,
Highland Avenue; and California Boulevard campus exits.
e) Landscaping is planned to enhance the aesthetics of the parking structure.
2) No additional parking (surface or structural) other than the Project resulting from the
current EIR process will be built in the immediate aria bounded by Longview, Slack,
and Pacheco Avenues for a period of 5 years. The university will provide advance
notice to the residents in the area of any parking project to be constructed after this 5-
year period. In order to ensure that such a notice is properly received, AVNA shall
provide the Cal Poly Office of Vice President for :administration and Finance with the
name and address of the person who shall receive notice of the University's intention
to construct a parking project in the location bn�.nided by Longview, Slack, and
Pacheco Avenues. The provisions. of this para�rach shall not apply to situations
where the University re-stripes a parking lot resultin_ in an increase or decrease in
parking spaces.
I3-SEC3-o.DES 3-15
December 1 , 1997
RECEIVED
City Council
990 Palm Street Ute 0 L 1997
San Luis Obispo , CA 93405
SLO CITY COUNCIL
Dear Council Members :
As a property Owner at 1R8 Hathway Street I am writing
In suprort of the proposed Cal Poly PAC parking structure as
recently revised with design and mitigation features.
I 'm sure you know there is a critical need for additional
parking spaces at the university especially in the southern
half of the campus. For many years residents of the Alta Vista
neighborhood have complained about students parking in their
streets instead of on campus due in part to a lack of adequate
parking spaces on campus. Now with environmental impacts
significantly reduced , it is time to move ahead with this
facility for the benefit of the campus community , the patrons
of the performing arts center and the Alta Vista neia.hborhood.
Placing the facility at the tennis court area makes much more
sense and would be more esthetically pleasing than the original
site which would have been in full view of patrons and custo-
mers of the PAC and Vista Grande Restaurant as well as a
greater portion of the adjoining neighborhood.
As a Floor Captain at the Performing Arts Center I have,
heard many complaints about parking problems encountered by
patrons who have attended concerts and other events this past
year. The most serious concerns are voiced by senior citizens
who have difficulty in walking many many blocks from their
cars to the center sometimes in inclement weather.
While the nronosed multi-story parking facility will
alleviate some of the frustrating parkinsg problems at. Cal Poly ,
I understand the university will continue to pursue other
alternatives such as ride sharing , subsidized busing , additional
parking lots , etc. to help meet present and future parking needs.
Please file this letter as part of the record in support
of the proposed Cal Poly PAC Parking Facility. I am also
sending a copy to the university for the record in support of
the Draft EIR. Thank you for your consideration.
0 CODOIR Sincerely ,
ew o FIN DM �4,,� U CT
AN= CHIEF Larry Voss
� EY �O�
LRI
O POLICE CHF 61.1 Al-H i l Tar i ve
p 8 .TEAM p REC DIR San Luis Obispo
O UTIL DIR
P itamura , Director of Facilities Planning
gal Poly State University