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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 10081991 - 1.4 TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS FROM: J. MICHAEL WALFORD, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR DATE: October 8, 1991 SUBJECT: Approving Bailey Road Interchange Project Project No. 0357-6X4156 SPECIFIC REQUEST(S) OR RECOMMENDATION(S) &BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION I. Recommended Action: APPROVE Project, and CERTIFY that the final EIR for the project was completed in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, that the final EIR was presented to the Board and the Board reviewed and considered the information contained in it, and FIND that the project will have significant effects on the environment, each of which is determined to be unavoidable, and as to each makes the following findings: See attached findings. DIRECT the Public Works Director to begin right-of-way acquisition and to prepare contract plans and specifications for construction. DIRECT the Director of Community Development to file a Notice of Determination with the County Clerk. DIRECT the Public Works Director to arrange for payment of the $25.00 handling fee to the County Clerk for filing of the Notice of Determination, and for the $850.00 Fish and Game filing fee to be transferred to the County Clerk. II. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The estimated project cost is$62.3 million,funded by Measure C Funds (40%), BART(50%), and State and local partnership (10%). Continued on Attachment: SIGNATURE: _ RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR _ RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE APPROVE OTHER SIGNATURE(S): ACTION OF BOARD ON J APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER VOTE OF SUPERVISORS UNANIMOUS (ABSENT AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: i hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors op the date sphown. BB:drBB:drg gB.t10 ATTESTED: f' - a � /g O�, PHIL BATCHELOR,Clerk 6t the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator Orig. Div: Public Works (Major Projects) cc: County Admin.: E. Kuevor By Deputy Community Development _. PW Accounting Road Engineering-H. Ballenger Approving Bailey Road Interchange Project October 8, 1991 Page Two III. REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATION/BACKGROUND: The project is needed to reduce congestion and provide a median width sufficient to accommodate the BART trackway and interim terminal station site just west of Bailey Road. This project has been determined to be in compliance with the General Plan. The Final Environmental Impact Report pertaining to this project was considered by the Zoning Authority on October 7, 1991, and found to be complete and prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act and State and County Guidelines. IV. CONSEQUENCES OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Delay in approving the project will result in a delay of design and construction and may. jeopardize funding. FINDINGS REQUIRED BY THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FOR THE STATE ROUTE 4/BAILEY ROAD INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY SEPTEMBER, 1991 , PREPARED FOR: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 651 PINE STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553-0095 PREPARED BY: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 255 GLACIER DRIVE MARTINEZ, CA 94553 AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS MANAGEMENT 101 THE EMBARCADERO, SUITE 210 SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 v FINDINGS REQUIRED BY THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FOR THE STATE ROUTE 4/BAILEY ROAD INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE I . INTRODUCTION I-1 1 . FINDINGS REGARDING EFFECTS WHICH CANNOT BE FEASIBLY MITIGATED TO A LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL 1 2 . FINDINGS REGARDING EFFECTS WHICH CAN BE MITIGATED TO A LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL 2 3. FINDINGS REGARDING ALTERNATIVES 23 STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS 28 I. INTRODUCTION. The following information constitutes the written findings required to comply with Section 15091 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines for the State Route 4/Bailey Road Interchange Improvement project: The purpose of the statutory requirement for findings is to ensure that the decision-making body actually considers alternatives and mitigation measures. The findings are intended to bridge the gap between raw evidence and the ultimate decision by summarizing information from the administrative record including the Draft and Final EIR for the project. Consequently, specific information provided in. these documents is cited, where appropriate, for individual impact discussions . For each significant effect identified in the EIR, the Lead Agency must make one or more of the following findings : (1) that changes or alternations have been required in , or incorporated into, the project that avoid or substantially =. lessen the effect; (2) that the Lead Agency lacks jurisdiction to make the change, but that another does have such authority; and/or (3) that specific economic, social; or other considerations make .infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the Final EIR. All of these findings must be supported by substantial evidence in the administrative record. The findings are based on information presented in the Draft and Final Environmental Impact Reports (Draft EIR and Final EIR) for the project . These documents have been subject to review and comment by the public and interested public agencies . In compliance with State Law, Assembly Bill 3180 (AB 3180) , a mitigation monitoring and reporting program for the project has been prepared. The program explains how the mitigation measures identified in the Draft and Final EIRs 'will be implemented. , _i 1. FINDINGS REGARDING EFFECTS WHICH CANNOT BE FEASIBLY MITIGATED TO A, LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL The Draft and Final EIRs identify the following unavoidable impacts caused by the. project that could not be mitigated: o The removal of older residences in the southeast and northwest quadrant's of the project area and along Hill Street in West Pittsburg would conflict with policies of the Contra Costa County General Plan to conserve neighborhoods and preserve housing. The removal of these houses can not be avoided due to the project design. The only alternative to the' project design which could avoid removal of homes is the No Project Alterr}ative. However, the No Project alternative is not considered "feasible" as defined by Section 15364 of the CEQA Guidelines . Chapter 3 contains the findings regarding the No Project Alternative. Removal of the residences will conflict with policies intended to conserve neighborhoods and preserve existing housing in Contra Costa County. The project requires Contra Costa County to balance various policy issues . o The four lane segment of State Route 4 east of Bailey Road is expected to operate at a level- of service (LOS) of F during the AM peak period in the westbound direction and PM peak period in. the eastbound direction in year 2005 with-or without the proposed project . This impact will result from cumulative, development and traffic which will occur within the region by 2005 . As indicated, this impact will occur with or without the project . Mitigation for this cumulative impact will require policy decisions by both Contra Costa County and Caltrans-to improve State Route- 4 east of Bailey Road. However, as indicated in the Draft EIR on page 3 .2- 20, no improvements to State Route 4 east of Bailey Road are expected to be in place by 2005 . Therefore this cumulative impact would be unavoidable within this time frame. The County of Costa has determined pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, that the benefits of the proposed State Route 4/Bailey Road interchange Improvement Project outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental effects and the project should be approved (see Statement of Overriding Considerations, page 27) 1 2. FINDINGS REGARDING EFFECTS WHICH CAN BE MITIGATED TO A LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL. 1 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project will displace 8 single family residences in the northwest quadrant, 38 single and multi-family residences in the southeast quadrant, and 5 single-family residences as a result of the expansion of the Hill Street Treatment Plant. Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid more substantial displacements and mitigate the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : An analysis of the land use impacts of the proposed project indicates that a total of 51 single and multi-family residences would be displaced by the project. This estimate is based on a worst-case scenario. Actual residential displacement will probably be less and will be further refined during the final design phase of the project . The land use analysis for the subject project is — contained in section 3 . 1 of the DEIR. Federal and State Laws (The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, Public Law 91-646, and California Government Code, Chapter 16, section 7260, et seq) require that relocation assistance be provided to any person, business or farm operation displaced because of the acquisition of real property by a public entity for public use. Contra Costa County being the Lead Agency fo.r the project will be responsible for complying with the relocation requirements . In addition to conforming with the federal and state relocation laws, the County will prepare a "Replacement Housing Study" and a "Relocation Assistance Program. These documents will be completed prior to right-of-way acquisition. Conformance with these mitigation requirements will reduce the adverse impact to a less-than-significant level. 2 . Adverse Environmental Effect.: The following State Route 4/Bailey Road interchange ramp junctions will operate at LOS E or F in year 2005 : Westbound off-ramp AM peak; Westbound on-ramp AM peak; Eastbound on-ramp PM peak. The LOS for the westbound off-ramp and eastbound on-ramp would be controlled by LOS F conditions on Route 4 east of Bailey Road. However, the westbound on-ramp junction is expected to operate at LOS E overriding the freeway segment LOS of D . 2 Findings: Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts . An analysis of traffic operations for existing and future peak hour traffic conditions at State Route 4' s junctions with the on and off-ramps to Bailey Road was performed using the Highway Capacity Manual (Transportation Research Board; 1985) methodology for ramp junctions . The measure of performance for freeway ramps is in terms of level of service (LOS) . The LOS for ramp junctions is a function of the number of lanes on the ramp and on the freeway, the freeway design speed, the ramp configuration, and other vehicle and roadway characteristics (truck percentages, grade, etc. ) . Section 3 .2 of the DEIR contains the analysis and results of the traffic analysis prepared for the subject project . According to the traffic analysis prepared for the subject project, congestion at the on-ramp' s merge with State Route' 4 can be alleviated by installing ramp metering- on both on- ramps . The ramp metering will be activated when Caltrans determines congestion warrants . This mitigation measure will reduce the adverse impact to a less-than-significant level . 3 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Year 2005 traffic volumes will warrant the installation of traffic signals at three locations : Canal Road (to the west) ; Canal Road (to the east) /Westbound on-ramp; and, Eastbound off-ramp/BART driveway/Eastbound on-ramp. Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in-, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects, thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts . Details regarding the traffic analysis conducted for the subject project are contained in Section 3 .2 of the DEIR. All of the project study intersections were evaluated as signalized intersections . The projected traffic volumes will warrant traffic signals at Canal Road (to the west) , Canal Road (to the east) , and the eastbound off-ramp/BART driveway/eastbound on-ramp . The required traffic signals will be installed as a component of the proposed project . Due to the proximity of the existing and proposed signalized intersections, traffic signals will be interconnected and geometric improvements. will also be provided. 3 �P The above mitigation measures will reduce the impact to a less-than-significant level by installing the appropriate signals and associated improvements . 4 . Adverse Environmental Effect: ' The proposed project will result in reducing the amount of proposed parking spaces at the future BART station from 1, 970 to 1, 785 . The loss of these proposed parking spaces would be considered substantial. Consequently, the loss would not be consistent with Contra Costa County' s, or the City of Pittsburg' s, Transportation Elements. The proposed parking spaces are not currently constructed. Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above . Statement of Facts : The State Route 4 diagonal eastbound off-ramp to Bailey Road will bisect the northern portion of the BART parking lot -and will cross under BART' s Bailey Road driveway. The ramp placement will decrease the surface parking potential on BART' s property. BART estimates 1, 970 parking spaces will be required in the year 2000 (Bay Area Transit Consultants, December, 1989) , Year 2005 parking demands were not determined by BART, but are expected to be close to year 2000 demands . However, with the off-ramp located on the northern portion of the property, only about 1, 785 surface parking space can be provided. This will create a deficit of 185 parking spaces . ' This deficit will be eliminated with the acquisition and use of adjoining vacant land to the east or west � for parking. The Bay Area Rapid Transit District and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority will select a final site for the additional narking. The mitigation measure identified above will reduce the impact to a less-than-significant level by replacing the parking deficit on the BART property. 5 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The existing pedestrian undercrossing of State Route 4 at Ambrose Park would be removed by the proposed project . However, pedestrian access to Bel Air School would continue along the school' s preferred route. Findinas : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above . 4 Statement of Facts : The existing pedestrian facilities within the project area are described in the Draft EIR on pages 3 . 2-17 through 3.2-19 . Impacts to these facilities are described on pages 3 .2-36 through 3 .2-39 . These impacts include the elimination of the 110-foot long undercrossing of State Route 4 between Bel Air Elementary School and Ambrose Park. The proposed project would include improvements for pedestrian access through the interchange area. Sidewalks would be provided along both sides of Bailey Road. Pedestrian crossings would be provided at on and off-ramp locations and the future entrance to BART. The mitigation measures identified above will reduce the impact to a less-than-significant level by replacing the parking deficit on the BART property. 6 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Noise levels at sensitive receptors in the project area will exceed Caltrans and local noise level standards under future traffic conditions . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : A detailed noise analysis was prepared for the subject project and is contained in Chapter 3 . 3 of the DEIR, and Responses. H-1 through H-19 of the FEIR. worst-case noise levels were calculated for the project area using Caltrans' Highway Operations Branch assumptions for worst-case noise levels . The results of the analysis indicated that the future noise levels at sensitive receptors located within the project area will exceed Caltrans and local noise level standards . To mitigate this adverse impact, noise barriers will be installed to reduce exterior noise levels as depicted in Figures 3 . 3-2A-D in the FEIR. In locations where barriers would impact access, alternative techniques will be available. Financial responsibility for noise mitigation should be determined by Caltrans, Contra Costa County, BART and the City of Pittsburg. Implementation of these mitigation measures will reduce the adverse noise impacts to a less-than-significant level . 7 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Construction of the proposed project will generate significant, but short-term noise imr)acts . 5 s Findings : Changes or alterations have been .required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : Construction noise will occur as a result of demolition, grading, heavy vehicles and reconstruction. work throughout the project area. Noise will be generated by diesel-powered heavy equipment such 'as dump trucks, cement trucks, graders, and bulldozers . Most diesel-powered heavy construction equipment produces noise levels of 80 to 90 dBA at a distance of 50 feet. Noise levels decrease by 6 dBA for every doubling of the distance of separation from a fixed source, so that at 100 feet, most of the construction noise would range from 74 dBA to ,84 dBA. Significant, but short-term construction period impacts are expected at certain sensitive receptors in the northwest, northeast, and southeast quadrants. The most significant temporary noise impact will occur during construction of the ramps that are in- close proximity to sensitive uses that will not be displaced by the project . Examples of these receptors include: the mobile homes in the northeast quadrant, residences on Mims Avenue, Amberson Avenue and those in the southeast and northwest quadrants . , Bel Air School will also be impacted by construction activities and heavy vehicle traffic on Canal road. To mitigate construction period noise, construction equipment will be required to conform to the provisions in Section 7-1 . 01I of the 1988 .Standard Specifications which includes prohibiting construction operations in residential areas between 7 : 00 pm - 7 : 00 am, on weekends, and on holidays . Compliance with this mitigation measure will reduce potential impacts from construction period noise to a less-than-significant level . 8 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project will - generate dust during the construction period that could cause soiling of surrounding areas and potential PM,, standard exceedances . Findincs : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : Clearing, excavation and grading operations, construction vehicle traffic on unpaved ground, * and wind blowing over exposed earth surfaces generate dust . Construction in the area of the proposed site, especially the deposition of between- 100, 000 and 150, 000 cubic yards of 6 material in the area proposed for the BART parking lot, will temporarily increase PMIo concentrations and may lead to violations of the federal and State 24-hour average PMIo standards . It is not possible to accurately estimate the PMIo concentrations that will occur at or adjacent to the construction sites because such concentrations are very sensitive to local meteorology and topography, to variations in soil silt and moisture content, and the level of equipment use. Much of this dust will be comprised of large particles which will settle out rapidly on nearby surfaces . This large diameter particulate matter is a concern more as a soiling nuisance rather than for its unhealthful impacts. However, the remaining fraction of PM,o may aggravate the respiratory problems of people living and working nearby. To minimize dust emissions, exposed soils in the construction area will be watered twice daily with complete, site coverage, and more often when wind speeds exceed 15 mph. To mitigate dust impacts, mud and dust carried onto street surfaces by construction vehicles will be cleaned up daily. Haul trucks will use protective covers. Revegetation or repaving will be completed as soon as possible to avoid . future impacts and soil erosion. These mitigation measures will reduce the adverse air quality impact to a less-than- significant level . 9 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Construction vehicles could cause spot violations of the CO standards . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : Several types of heavy duty construction vehicles will be used in the construction of the _^rop_ osed improvements . It is estimated that each piece of construction equipment emits over 0 . 1 pounds of pollutants for each cubic yard of earth moved. Large numbers of such vehicle/equipment operating or idling in a small area may cause spot (short term and localized) violations of the CO standards . To mitigate potential spot violations of the CO standards, all construction equipment will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce di-es'el combustion emissions . As 7 cleaner diesel fuels are developed, they, should be used. When equipment is not being used, it will not be left idling. These measures will reduce construction period emissions by up to 50 percent . Implementation of these mitigation measures would reduce potential' adverse impacts to a less-than-significant level. 10 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The reconfiguration of the western end- of ,the interchange will involve cut and fill within the Tehama formation, which is prone to landslides, and onlapping Quaternary alluvium. Findinas : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above Statement of Facts : A detailed analysis of the geology and soils within the project area was conducted for the subject project and is contained in Section 3 . 5 of the DEIR. The extreme western end of the interchange involves. cut and fill in order to widen the lane separation and meet the lowered grade of the State Route n project. This will occur entirely within- the Tehama formation, which is prone to landslides, and onlapping Quaternary alluvium. The rest of the interchange reconfiguration. will occur on gently sloping Quaternary alluvium with little or no potential for slope failure . To mitigate potential impacts, standard engineering- design and construction contract specifications development for highway projects will be utilized to mitigate the potential impacts of soil hazards . in addition, all cut slopes and fill areas will be designed, engineered and constructed to resist slope failure. 11 . Adverse Environmental Effect : During grading and . site preparations, soils that present a .slight to moderate potential for erosion will be disturbed increasing the potential for. wind and water erosion to occur. The potential for erosion damage would be greatest during the winter rainy season from October through April . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above Statement of Facts: Project area soils can generally be divided into upland soils, which dominate the hills of the Diablo Range south and west of the project area, and lowland 8 soils which dominate the bottoms of drainages within the northeastern margins of the hills and the alluvial slope from the base of the hills to the Suisun Bay margin. estuaries . Except for the extreme, western end �of the- interchange location, the project area overlies soil classified as Antioch Loam, on gentle to moderate slopes of. two to nine percent. This soil consists of moderately well drained soils ov.erlying , older mixed alluvial terrace and fan materials . Runoff is slow to medium and would present a slight to moderate. erosion hazard where tilled or exposed (USDA SCS, 1977) . During grading and .site preparations, soils that present a slight to ,moderate potential for erosion .will be disturbed increasing the potential for wind and water erosion. The potential for water erosion damage will be greatest during the winter rainy season from October through April. Wind erosion of uncovered soils can occur at any time of the year. To mitigate potential erosion impact, all plans and specifications will comply .with Caltrans' Standard specifications and best management practices for erosion- control and with the "Manual of Standards for Erosion and Sediment Control Measures" prepared by the Association of Bay Area Governments, Revised Edition, June 1987 . Specific measures to prevent soil erosion will be defined during the detailed design phase of the project and will be reviewed by Caltrans and Contra Costa prior to implementation. Examples of erosion control measures are provided in Section 3 . 5 of the DEIR. Implementation of erosion control measures will occur by October 15 . Erosion control structures will be checked, and cleaned if necessary, following storm events to ensure they are functioning properly. Implementation of these mitigation measure. will reduce potential erosion impacts to a less-than-significant level . 12 . Adverse Environmental Effect: The presence of Capay clay soils at the exzreme western end of the project area creates the potential for alternate shrinking and swelling of soils which present hazards to the proposed roadway facilities . Findings : Changes or .alterations have, been -required in, or. incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above 9 Statement of Facts : The geology, soils and. seismicity analysis for -the project contained in Section. 3 .5 of .the DEIR, identifies clay soils at the .extreme western end of the project area. The presence-of Capay clay soil has been identified in the extreme western end of the project site. Capay soil has been identified as one of high shrink-swell potential. However, the design engineering of the project will include soil testing. Appropriate mitigation will be incorporated into the design of the roadbed. Compliance with this mitigation will reduce the potential impact to a less-than- significant. level . 13 . Adverse Environmental Effect: Potential ground acceleration at the project site from seismic activity on nearby faults could be as high as 0 . 45g. This is sufficient to cause considerable damage to roadbeds and overpasses with potential damage to vehicles and ,loss of life of both motorists and pedestrians . Findincs : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as. identi`fied above. - Statement bove -Statement of Facts : The main trace of the San Andreas fault is located approximately 40 miles west of the. project site. In addition, two major active branches of the San Andreas fault system, are located approximately 20 miles west (Havward fault) and 10. miles southwest (Calaveras fault) of the project location. Several smaller active branch faults of the San Andreas fault system, each with similar lateral movement, are also located within the project vicinity (See Figure 3 . 5-1) . The Concord fault is located approximately 6. 5 miles' southwest, the Clayton/Greenville fault is located approximately 3 miles southwest, and the .Antioch fault is. located approximately 6 . 5 miles east of the project location. Each of these faults is capable of generating strong, potentially damaging groundshaking at the project location. To mitigate potential impacts as a result of strong ground shaking in the project area, roadbeds and overpasses will be engineered to meet all seismic design criteria for stability under maximum credible earthquake conditions . These measures will be incorporated into the design of the interchange- components during the detailed design phase . Compliance with this mitigation will reduce the potential impact to .-a less-than-sicrnificant level 10 14 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The project will result in two ,new crossings and the widening' of one existing crossing of the Contra Costa Canal. These additional crossings will not alter existing operation of the Canal. However, -. construction activities could accidentally damage water conveyance capabilities and/or water. quality. Find�inas: Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which. 'mitigate or avoid the significant environmental .effects thereof as , identified above. Statement of Facts : The Contra Costa Canal, which flows through the project area, is owned by the U. S . Bureau of Reclamation and operated by Contra. Costa .County. This canal carries water which serves both domestic and industrial. users . The new westbound on-ramp and' the new westbound loop off- ramp will cross the canals . The State Route 4 crossing of the canal east of Bailey Road will need' to be widened to accommodate the widening of State Route 4 and the ,new , eastbound on-ramp. , An Encroachment Permit will be obtained from the Contra Costa Water District before construction activities begin within the Canal right-of-way. To mitigate potential impacts to water conveyance and/or water quality, operation of heavy equipment will' be regulated near the Canal; and, debris and soil will be prevented from entering the canal during the construction process . Implementation of these mitigation fneas.ures will reduce potential impacts to a less-than-significant level. 15 . ' Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project will fill. approximately 0 . 87 acres of wetland area within the project area. - Consultation with the U. S . Army Corps of Engineers has been conducted to determine whether a Section 404 permit is" required. At this time, the Corps has not ruled on permitting requirements . The formal application and permitting process would take place during the detailed design phase of the project . j.ridinas : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above . Statement of Facts : A detailed analysis of the vegetation and wildlife habitat within the project area was conducted for the subject project. :. This analysis is contained in . T1 Section 3 . 7 of the DEIR. As, indicated, in, the analysis, the proposed project will fill approximately 0 . 87 acres of wetland habitat in five (5)> primary locations within the project area. To mitigate the project's potential impact on wetland areas, a conceptual wetland mitigation plan has been prepared for the project . The conceptual wetlands mitigation plan is presented in Section 3 .7 of- .the DEIR. The plan involves "in-kind" wetland replacement on-si°te in a ratio of. l: 1 (1 acre filled: l acre created) . This would be accomplished' by enlarging and improving the existing low wetland area in the northwest quadrant of the ,project area. hn addition to the mitigation plan, formal consultation with the COE will be conducted to determine permit- requirements and required mitigation for 'the. project . _ If'. required, an "Application for a Department of the Army Permit" (Form 4345) will be filed with the COE. If required, the application will include the wetlands mitigation plan. The formal application and permitting process will take place during the final design phase of .the proposed project . A "Notification of Removal of Materials and/or Alteration of Lake, River or Stream Bed, Bottom or Margin" (Form 2023) will also. be filled with. the Department of Fish .and Game (DFG) at the same, time as filling the COE Section 404 application. Compliance with these mitigation measures and permit requirements will reduce the project' s impact on wetland areas. to a less-than-significant level . 16 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Construction activities could result in restricted traffic flow along State Route 4 and Bailey Road resulting in a minor. and temporary adverse impact on police protection requirements and emergency access . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The proposed project will result in improved circulation in the vicinity of the State Route 4/Bailey Road interchange under future traffic conditions . Improved circulation will result. in improved fire and police protection by increasing access and reducing. response times to the project area. However, construction activities could result in restricted traffic flow along State Route 4 and Bailev Road. Traffic congestion during construction could - 12 result in. a minor and temporary',,adverse impact on police protection requirements and emergency access . Standard . . detour and construction period methods ,will be implemented to prevent significant impacts, To ensure that construction period traffic congestion does not- significantly affect police and emergency' access through the interchange area, a construction period detour plan will be developed during the detailed design phase of' the project and, implemented during the construction phase. The responsibility for implementing the detour plan will be specified in the construction contracts for the project. Consultation and coordination with the Contra Costa County Sheriff' s Department and the City of Pittsburg- Police Department will occur during the detailed design phase to ensure that circulation requirements for emergency vehicles . are met . Notification of detour routes and construction schedules will be provided= to emergency service providers and- residents in the area prior to construction. Responsibility for notification will be -specified in the construction contracts for the.project . Implementation of these mitigation' 'measures .will reduce potential construction period emergency access impacts 'to a less-than-significant level . 17 . Adverse Environmental Effect:- The proposed project will directly affect Ambrose Park by removing the existing access from Memorial Way, displacing one building, and removing a portion, of the parking facilities . Findings :- Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The construction of the eastbound State Route 4 through lanes, and diagonal on-ramp will directly. impact Ambrose Park by removing the existing access from Memorial Way, displacing the existing building east. of .the parking lot and north of the park access road and by removing a portion of the Ambrose Park parking lot. Details about circulation and parking impacts on Ambrose Park are provided in Section 3 . 2 of the DEIR.. Removal of a portion of the west parking lot will result in the need for additional parking during peak periods, such as the summer months . 13 The proposed ,project has been :designed to include replacement of the ekisting Memorial .Way access to Ambrose Park with a new road which will -parallel the diagonal. eastbound State Route' 4 on-ramp. To mitigate the loss of parking, financial compensation or in-kind replacement will be provided to the Ambrose Park District for the loss ' of parking spaces and/or the removal of buildings . Details will be: worked .out between Contra Costa County; City of Pittsburg, BART, Caltrans and the Ambrose Parks and Recreation District_ Compliance with this mitigation wi1S reduce the impact to .a . less-than-significant level . 1$ . Adverse Environmental Effect: Water and sewer line modifications will be necessary as a .result of residential' displacement, FindincTs : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts :. The Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) provides water to east Contra Costa County through the Contra Costa Canal which originates in the San Joaquin- Sacramento River Delta. The Contra Costa Canal is located within the project area and crosses under State Route 4 just east of the Bailey Road interchange. . The California Cities Water Company provides water service to West Pittsburg and portions of the project area within the West Pittsburg area. The California ,Cit.ies Water Company operates the Madison Water Treatment Plant located within the project area along the Contra Costa Canal and Memorial Way, east of Ambrose park. The City of Pittsburg operates its own water service district and supplies water to the portion of the project area within the City of Pittsburg. The proposed interchange improvements will not significantly impact local water service or sewage collection facilities in the project area. No service disruptions are expected to occur. However, some water and sewer line modifications will be necess,ary -as a result of residential relocation or roadway improvements . For example, the existing sanitary sewer located along Memorial Way in the southeast quadrant will be relocated' to accommodate the new Route 4 eastbound on-ramp and through lanes . 14 To accommodate the removal of the Madison Treatment Plant, certain local water distribution modifications will be needed. These modifications will include: plugging ,existing . . water mains to and from the Madison Treatment Plant;' removal of. water lines to homes which would be displaced by the proposed project; and, . rerouting water mains in the southeast quadrant. These modifications would be made in a manner that would avoid service disruptions . . To mitigate any potential impacts on water and sewer service, water service and sewage collection lines affected. by- the proposed project would be' relocated so that ,normal service can continue. Compliance with this mitigation measure will reduce the potential impact to a less-than- significant level. 19. Adverse Environmental Effect : The Madison Water Treatment Plant will be displaced by the proposed project . During the period between demolition of the Madison Treatment Plant and the expansion of the Hill Street Treatment Plant; water requirements may need to be met„ through an interim supply. - Findings: Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The California Cities Water District' s Madison Water Treatment Plant located along Memorial Way will be displaced by the State Route 4 eastbound through lanes and on-ramp. The project includes expanding. the California Cities Water. Company' s Hill Street. Treatment Plant to accommodate the water treatment and 'supply requirements currently being provided by ' the Madison Treatment Plant . - The ' environmental impacts associated with. expanding the Hill. Street Treatment plant are discussed in the Draft EIR under the appropriate sections ' (see Sections 3. 1, 3 . 8, 3 . 10, and 4 .5) . :During the period between the demolition of the Madison, Treatment -Plant and the expansion of the Hill Street Treatment Plant, local water requirements may need to be met . through an interim source . Interim` water requirements can be met by the California Cities Water Company, the City of . Pittsburg and/or the Contra Costa County Water District . Minimal infrastructure improvements will be required to provide water to customers in this area during this interim period. Details about the infrastructure and service arrangements will be defined in a cooperative agreement between the service providers . This agreement will be . 15 finalized before demolition of the Madison Treatment Plant begins . Compliance with this mitigation will reduce the potential impact to a less-than-significant level. 20 . Adverse Environmental Effect : During construction, hazardous materials, in the form of contaminated soil or asbestos containing building materials, may be encountered at several locations identified by the Initial Site Assessment (ISA) . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : A Initial Site Assessment (ISA) was prepared for the subject project. The findings of the ISA are presented in Section 3 . 9 of the DEIR. The ISA involved review of historical records and agency files as well as a site visit . The ISA concluded that there is a potential for contaminated soils and/or asbestos containing building materials being encountered during the course of construction of the project. To mitigate potential adverse impacts associated with contaminated soil or asbestos containing building materials, a Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) will be conducted at suspicious locations prior to right-of-way acquisition. The PSI will focus on the nature and extent of soil contamination present on properties identified by the ISA. The PSI will include sampling on properties where oil, grease, metals, - solvents, PAHs, and unknown contamination has been inferred or where asbestos containing building materials are suspected. Soil and groundwater sampling will be conducted on properties where gasoline and diesel have been identified as potential contaminants . Should contaminated soil, groundwater and/or asbestos containing building materials be identified at any site, remediation of the contaminated materials will occur before excavation or construction activities commence. Compliance with these mitigation measures will reduce potential adverse impacts to a less-than-significant level : 21 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Two exhumed tanks are located within the proposed right-of-way for the proposed project . Since the historical contents and circumstances of their removal are unknown, they must be considered a hazardous waste and could pose a threat to construction crews should the tanks be disrupted or damaged by construction activities . ly Findincs: Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The ISA conducted for the project, (see Section 3. 9 of the DEIR) identified two exhumed: tanks within the project right-of-way. One is located at the California Cities water treatment plant . The other is located between State- Route 4 and Canal Road east of Franklin (See Figure 3. 9-1 of the DEIR) . The original location of the tanks, their contents, and the . circumstances of their removal are unknown. These tanks may have to be disposed of as hazardous- depending upon potential documentation and/or testing. To mitigate the potential hazards created by these tanks, the contents of the tanks will be analyzed for fuel components using the EPA Method 8015 modified for gasoline and diesel . In addition, the property owners on whose property the tanks are now located, will be contacted to obtain additional information regarding their contents, age, and circumstances for removal . The tanks will be removed from the project before excavation or construction in the area commences . Removal will be handled by a certified hazardous materials transporter. - The tanks will be transported to a landfill, the type of which will be determined by the results of the tank analysis . Compliance with the above mitigation measures will reduce the potential impact to a less-than-significant level . 22 . Adverse Environmental Effect : Demolition of the Madison Treatment Plant which handles chlorine and other hazardous materials, will require removing and transporting all hazardous materials from the site prior to demolition. Findings : Changes or . alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The proposed project will result in the relocation of the California Cities water Company' s Madison treatment Plant located along Memorial way which handles Chlorine and other hazardous materials . As required by law, all hazardous materials present at the site prior to 17 demolition will be removed and transported to the Hill Street Treatment Plant by an approved hazardous materials transporter. To ensure proper handling of hazardous materials at the Madison treatment plant; California Cities Water Company will utilize an approved hazardous materials transporter for all hazardous materials that will be removed from the Madison Treatment Plant prior to demolition. Compliance with these mitigation measures will reduce potential adverse impacts to a less-than-significant level. 23 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project could result in visual impacts during the construction period. Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : A visual analysis was prepared for the subject project and is contained in Section 3 . 10 of the DEIR. Construction of the proposed project will involve visually disruptive activity during the construction period. Visual impacts during the construction period could be caused by unusual lighting techniques, outdoor storage of building materials, equipment and vehicles, highly visible signage, exposed cut and fill slopes, debris collection areas and damage to landscaping and other amenities . However, details. ab'out most construction period impacts have not been defined at this time . To mitigate potential construction period visual impacts to a less-than-significant level the following mitigation measures will be implemented: Lighting and signage will be consistent with the requirements of Caltrans, ' Contra Costa County, and the City of Pittsburg with particular attention to minimizing the impact on sensitive receptors; areas disturbed by construction activities will be revegetated according to the requirements of Contra Costa County Department of Public Works, the City of Pittsburg and Caltrans; revegetated areas will be monitored by a qualified landscape architect to ensure success of revegetation efforts; amenities, such as street lights, sidewalks etc . , will be replaced and/or returned to the conditions which existed prior to construction. The above measures will be implemented by the contractor and specified in the construction contracts for the project . 18 24 .. Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project will result in a significant change in the visual character of portions of the project area by removing as many as 51 residences for interchange improvements in the northwest. -and southeast quadrants and for the expansion of the Hill Street Treatment Plant . Findings : Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The visual analysis for the subject project describes the existing visual character and resources within the project area, the visual impacts of the. project and mitigation. measures to reduce the project' s visual impacts . This analysis is contained in Section 3 . 10 of the DEIR. To mitigate the project' s visual impacts, landscaping in right-of-way areas will be installed to reduce the visual scale of the proposed improvements and to help the interchange blend in with the surrounding suburban environment . A landscape plan will be prepared during the detailed design phase of the project and will meet all landscape requirements of Caltrans and Contra Costa County (See Section 3 . 10 of the DEIR) . To mitigate the visual impacts of expanding the Hill Street treatment plant, landscaping will be provided along the Hill Street frontage of the plant to soften and ultimately shield views of the plant from local residences . Landscape buffers will be provided between the plant and adjacent residences . Treatment plant buildings that will be visible from local residences will be designed with architectural treatments that minimize aesthetic conflicts between the buildings and surrounding residences and blend these structures with the surrounding residential character. Fences constructed around the plant wil"1 utilize architectural treatments such as color, pattern and textures to help avoid a "solid wall" appearance and soften local visual disruption . Implementation of the above mitigation measures will reduce potential visual impacts of the subject project to a less- than-significant level . 25 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The subject project will increase the visual scale or State Route 4 for Ambrose Park visitors . This impact could be significant From certain vantage points within the park. 19 Findinas: Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the .project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above. Statement of Facts : The proposed project will result in the construction of the eastbound State Route 4 on-ramp and a soundwall along the . on-ramp in close proximity to Ambrose park. This could impact certain views from Ambrose park for park users . To. mitigate potential visual impacts to Ambrose Park users, landscaping will be provided along the eastbound State Route 4 diagonal on-ramp (a soundwall will be installed in this urea) , This landscaping will provide a solid wall of year- round coverage so that a buffer between the freeway and the adjacent park is created. Compliance with this mitigation will reduce thepotential impact -to a less-than-significant level . 26 . Adverse, Environmental Effect : Construction activities, such as demolition and site clearing and grading for the proposed project, could result in the discovery of, or impacts to, buried archaeological resources . Findings : Changes. or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof as identified above . Statement of Facts : A detailed cultural resource analysis was prepared by Holman and Associates for the subjec project . The results of the analysis are contained in Section 3 . 11 of the DEIR. Although archival research and field surface reconnaissance of the project area did not reveal any archaeological resources, the possibility that such. resources may be. present cannot be precluded at this time because only 25% of the ground surface was examined. The remaining surface area within the project area could not be examined due to ground surface modifications including: grading; fill; and coverage by 20th Century construction which may have obscured or buried important archaeological resources . Because the area is in close proximity to the shores .of Suisun Bay, the presence of a water course (Lawlor' s Ravine) , and several minor drainages, 'previous unrecognized.:prehistoric occupation may have occurred within the project area. Therefore, construction activities, such as, demolition and site clearing 'and grading for the proposed project, could result in the discovery of, or impacts to, buried archaeological resources . 20 To mitigate possible impacts to cultural resources the . . . following mitigation measures will be followed: 1) if a buried cultural resource is identified, and evaluated as "unique", then a program of archaeological mitigation will be formulated; 2) a program of archaeological monitoring will be formulated and implemented during the construction period; 3). if a prehistoric site, burial, or historic resource is encountered, construction activities will be temporarily stop or relocated; 4). if human remains are discovered during construction, excavations will be halted; 5) any finds of human remains must be reported to the Contra Costa County Coroner' s Office; and, 6) a report of findings and, analyses of all archaeological data recovered during testing/excavation, monitoring and any mitigation procedures undertaken will be prepared by a qualified archaeologist. Compliance with the above mitigation measures will. reduce potential impacts on cultural resources. to a less-than- significant impact if encountered. 27 . Adverse Environmental Effect : The proposed project will , require the removal. of numerous structures that are over• 45 years old. Preliminary examination of these structures indicates that they are not associated with any known historical event and do not represent significant examples o,f the architectural style. of their period. Findinas : Changes or alterations have been required in, 'or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the. significant environmental effects thereof as identified above . Statement of Facts : A preliminary survey of standing structures within the project was conducted and contained in Section 3 . 11 of the DEIR. The survey revealed a total of seventy-three (73) residences within the project area (includes five residences which will be displaced by the expansion of the Hill Street. Treatment Plant) , many with associated garages or other secondary structures . In addition, one church, one shopping center, one school, and one trailer park are also located within the project area. Many structures appeared to predate World War II . However, none of the structures within the. project area .appear to represent significant architectural examples of the styles they embrace . 21 To mitigate any potential impacts to structures of historical significance, an architectural survey of all structures to be removed by the project will be undertaken by a qualified architectural historian during the detailed design phase of the project to confirm that the demolition of these buildings will not be significant. Compliance with this mitigation will reduce potential impacts to historic structures to a less-than-significant level. 22 3 . FINDINGS REGARDING ALTERNATIVES No Build/No Prosect Alternative. The "No Project/No Build" .alternative for the State Route 4/Bailey Road interchange project is slightly different from the conventional definition of the No Project Alternative. The No Project Alternative typically involves no construction activities in the project area and perpetuation of existing conditions. In this case, because of the approved extension of BART to the Bailey Road/West Pittsburg area, certain changes to the interchange are mandatory and should be considered a part of the "No Build" alternative even though the BART construction has not yet occurred. Thus, the No Project alternative- includes the extension of BART to the Bailey Road interchange as well as those modifications which would restore the existing traffic capacity . The No Project alternative would avoid many of the adverse land use effects of the proposed project because it would not include loop ramps which require substantial right-of-way acquisition and residential displacement . However, the No Project alternative =. would result in more severe circulation impacts as described in the DEIR on pages 4-6 through *4-10 . The No Build alternative is considered not "feasible" as defined in Section 15364 of the CEQA Guidelines, and was rejected for the reasons listed below. 1 . The No Project alternative would create forced flow conditions on Route 4 between and including Bailey Road' s westbound off-ramp and west-bound on-rampduring the A.M. peak hour. This condition could present safety concerns at both the diverge and merge points and would be considered a significant unavoidable adverse impact of the No Project Alternative . 2 . The No Project Alternative would create level of service F traffic conditions at the Bailey Road/Westbound off-ramp intersection during the A.M. peak hour, the Bailey Road' s northbound approach which would require substantial widening of Bailey Road and the westbound off-ramp. This widening would require extensive modification of the State Route 4 overpass and displace four (4) residences . 4 . The Bailey Road/Leland Road intersection would operate at an unacceptable level of. service ` (LOS E during the AM _peak and LOS F during the PM peak) . 5 . Adverse weaving turbulence would occur on southbound Bailey Road between the eastbound off--ramp and the BART driveway because of the short length (150 feet) of this section of roadway. 23 Reverse Partial-Cloverleaf: Northern Alignment Alternative. This alternative includes. the same basic interchange improvements as the proposed project, except that .the project improvements are moved to a more northern alignment. This alternative was evaluated because it presented the potential to avoid and/or minimize residential displacement south of Route 4 . However, based on further evaluation, this alternative was rejected for the following reasons : 1. This alternative would reduce some of the residential displacement of the project in the southeast and southwest quadrants, but would increase the land use impacts north of the interchange to a greater degree. The impacts north of the interchange would include displacement of the gas station located at the northwest corner of Bailey Road and Canal Road; removal of a significant .portion of the Bel Air Elementary School parking lot and playing fields; and displacement of approximately" 15 mobile homes which provide a unique source of affordable housing. The impact. on the school would be significant and could not.. be mitigated because there is no available land adjacent to the school to replace impacted areas . The displacement of the older mobile home units and the corresponding relocation impacts would be significant and much more difficult to address than the impacts associated with other residential relocation. This difficulty exists because vacancy rates in existing mobile home parks are extremely low and the development of new areas for mobile units are subject to design standards that preclude, in some cases, older mobile home units . Consequently, finding comparable relocation housing for displacement. of the mobile homes could be difficult or impossible to mitigate. 2 . This alternative would affect thirteen (13) properties (4 more than the project) which during field investigations and/or agency file review have been identified as having the potential for soil contamination. This ,impact would be more significant than under the preferred project because of the additional properties involved. 3 . This alternative would require the relocation of two businesses which handle hazardous materials . Relocation would involve exhuming several active underground tanks . The potential for release of 'hazardous substances to air and/or soil would be present . 24 Partial-Cloverleaf: Northern Alignment Alternative. This alternative is a standard partial-cloverleaf design for the State Route 4/Bailey Road interchange on a northerly alignment. The standard-cloverleaf design changes the location of the interchange loop structures to the northeast (Quadrant 2) and southwest (Quadrant 4) quadrants rather than the northwest (Quadrant 1) and southeast (Quadrant 3) with respect to the proposed project . This alternative was evaluated because it presented the potential to avoid and/or minimize residential displacement associated with the proposed project in the southeast quadrant. However, based on further evaluation, this alternative was rejected for the following reasons : 1. The placement of the loop westbound- on-ramp in the northeast quadrant would displace approximately 35 mobile homes, the Shell gas station at the corner of Canal Road and Bailey Road and play areas and the parking lot associated with Bel Air Elementary School. A minimum of eight (8) residences east of Bel Air elementary school would also be displaced by the realignment of Canal Road. Consequently, there is no benefit .to this alternative in terms of overall displacement and relocation. As stated previously with respect to the Reverse-Partial Cloverleaf: Northern Alignment Alternative, impacts to Bel Air School and the loss of mobile home units would be significant and difficult to mitigate. 2 . During the A.M. and P .M. peak hours, the intersection of Bailey Road and Leland Road would operate at a poor level of service (LOS E and LOSF respectively) . This inadequate level of service is not expected with the proposed project and would require . widening Bailey Road in a manner that is not necessary for the proposed project . This widening would result in the removal of 10 single-family residences . 25 Reverse Partial-Cloverleaf: Central Alignment Alternative. This alternative involves improvements that are similar to those of the proposed project and the Reverse Partial-Cloverleaf: Northern Alignment Alternative, but it is centrally located. This alternative was evaluated to determine the impacts of centering the project over the existing alignment of State Route 4. However, based on further evaluation, this alternative was rejected for the following reasons: 1 . This alternative would avoid some of the impacts 'of the project, but would increase other land use impacts to a greater degree. This alternative would result in the displacement of approximately 18 mobile homes, a portion. of the Bel Air elementary school parking area and playing fields, and at least eight (8) residences east, of Bel Air elementary school. As discussed under the Reverse Partial- Cloverleaf: Northern Alignment Alternative above, the impact on Bel Air School and the loss of mobile home units would be significant and difficult to mitigate. 2 . This alternative would impact thirteen (13) properties (4 more than the preferred project) which were identified as ' having some level of soil contamination. Mitigation would involve exhuming several active underground tanks . The potential for release of hazardous substances to air and/or soil would be more significant because of the additional properties that would be involved. 26 Madison Treatment Plant Relocation Alternative #2 : Pacific Avenue/Driftwood Drive. This alternative addresses an alternative site for the relocation of the Madison Treatment Plant which would be displaced by the Bailey Road/State Route 4 Interchange Project. This alternative involves the construction of a new treatment plant at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Driftwood Drive in the western portion of West Pittsburg. This alternative was evaluated because it would reduce residential displacement associated with the expansion of the Hill Street Treatment Plant . This alternative was evaluated and was rejected for the following reason: 1 . Construction of a treatment plant at this site would require additional utility improvements which would riot be needed to. expand the Hill Street Treatment Plant. These include: o New electrical service to the site; o Construction of. a new connection to the Contra Costa Canal; and o Construction of a clear well . The feasibil.ity. of constructing a new connection to the Contra Costa Canal is unknown from an engineering standpoint . Additional studies would need to be conducted to determine if this alternative is technically feasible. The uncertainty regarding a new- connection to the canal was considered a major constraint to this alternative. 27 STATE ROUTE 4/BAILEY ROAD INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Contra Costa County has determined, pursuant to California Code of Regulations, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Section 15093, that the benefits of the State Route 4/Bailey Road Interchange Improvement project outweigh the two unavoidable adverse environmental effects described in the Findings and the project should be approved. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors approves of the project for the following reasons based on the information provided in the Draft EIR and Final EIR for the project, information contained in the Findings, and other information in the administrative record: o Over the last decade Contra Costa County has experienced a significant increase in residential and commercial development . Continuing growth in the State Route 4 corridor will result in increased traffic volumes and congestion at the Bailey Road Interchange, particularly during the peak commute periods . o The City of Pittsburg has projected considerable residential and commercial growth in the vicinity of Bailey Road. As development occurs, the Bailey Road Interchange is expected to experience a significant increase in peak period traffic. o The improvements to the Bailey Road Interchange are essential to provide for the approved extension of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system to West Pittsburg. o The improvements allow BART to use the median of State Route 4 in the vicinity of the interchange and would provide capacity for increased automobile traffic associated with the future BART station and proposed parking lot . o The extension of BART to West Pittsburg is a fundamental transportation improvement project necessary for implementing federal, state and local air quality attainment goals . o The Bailey Road Interchange project and the extension of BART to West Pittsburg are fundamental local transportation improvement projects necessary for accommodating local growth and would implement important local and regional circulation policies . 28