HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 04252006 - C.25 TO:- BOARD OF.SUPERVISORS, AS GOVERNING Contra
BOARD OF THE FLOOD CONTROL&WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT ° Costa
FROM: MAURICE M. SHIU, CHIEF ENGINEER County
a coux+K
DATE: April 25, 2006 t* & 474
SUBJECT: ADOPT the previously adopted City of Brentwood Sand Creek Road Extension Mitigated Negative
Declaration to address necessary real property transactions with the City of Brentwood associated with
the Sand Creek Road Extension project in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act,
Brentwood area. (District III) [CDD-CP#06-28] Project No. 7589-6D8301 and 0651-6L083A(Flood
Control Permit 617-00) 1
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S)OR RECOMMENDATION(S)&BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
ADOPT the previously adopted City of Brentwood Sand Creek Road Extension Mitigated Negative Declaration to
address necessary real property transactions with the City of Brentwood associated with the Sand Creek Road
Extension project in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, (the custodian of which is the
Community Development Department located at 651 Pine Street, Martinez), and
DIRECT the Director of Community Development to file a Notice of Determination, and
AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer to arrange for payment of a$25 fee to Community Development for processing,
and a $25 fee to the County Clerk for filing the Notice of Determination.
Continued on Attachment: SIGNATURE:
[RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMII NISTRATOR ❑ RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
F.1--APPROVE OTHER
SIGNATURE(S): ^'
ACTION OF BOA ON &7*//
APPROVED ASR COMMENDED U' OTHER ❑
VOTT OF SUPERVISORS I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action
►/ UNANIMOUS(ABSENT taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on
AYES: NOES:
the date shown.
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: d E
TT:ms ATTESTED: iori� °�DG
G:\GrpData\EngSvc\ENVIRO\BO\2006\(04-25-06) JOHN CULLEN,Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County
CEQA-SandCrkRdExt-Adopt Btwd MND.doc Administrator
Orig.Div:Public Works(Environmental Section)
Contact: Leigh Chavez,(313-2366)
cc: Administrator—Attn.E.Kuevor
Auditor-Controller By ,Deputy
Community Development—H.Li
Public Works: Construction—J.Dowling
Environmental—T.Torres
Flood Control -T.Jensen
-J.La Rocque
-M.Consolation
Real Property -L.Owens
SUBJECT: ADOPT the previously adopted City of Brentwood Sand Creek Road Extension Mitigated Negative
Declaration to address necessary real property transactions with the City of Brentwood associated with
the Sand Creek Road Extension project in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act,
Brentwood area. (District III) [CDD-CP#06-28] Project No. 7589-6138301 and 0651-6L083A(Flood
Control Permit 617-00)
DATE: April 25, 2006
PAGE: 2 of 2
FISCAL IMPACT:
The processing of the necessary right-of-way transactions will not have an impact on the County General Funds.
Contra Costa Flood Control and Water Conservation District costs will be reimbursed by the City of Brentwood
(100%).
REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATIONS AND BACKGROUND:
In April 2000, the City of Brentwood published the Notice of Intent to Adopt the Sand Creek Road Extension
Mitigated Negative Declaration. On May 23, 2000, the City of Brentwood City Council adopted the Mitigated
Negative Declaration.
The adoption of the City's Mitigated Negative Declaration by the Board is needed in order to conduct real property
transactions between the District and City associated with the Sand Creek Road Extension project. The real property
transactions will allow the City to have roadway easements as well as access and utility easements as necessary to
allow for future maintenance of the new roadway and utilities by the City.
The real property transactions are locatedlin East Contra Costa County, in the City of Brentwood, near Fairview
Avenue and Old Sand Creek Road across Sand Creek Channel, as well as at Sand Creek Road and O'Hara Avenue
across Marsh Creek Channel.
CONSEQUENCES OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Delay in adopting the Mitigated Negative Declaration will prevent the processing of necessary real property
transactions for this City project.
NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
TO:_ Office of Planning and Research FROM: City of Brentwood
1400 Tenth Street Engineering Department
Sacramento, CA 95814 708 Third Street
Brentwood, CA 94513
X County Clerk
County of Contra Costa
725 Court Street, Courthouse
Martinez, CA 94553 I
SUBJECT: FILING OF NOTIICE OF DETERMINATION IN COMPLIANCE WITH
SECTION 21108 OR 21152 OF THE PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE.
Project Title: Sand Creek Road Exte I ion, CTP Project No. 336-3061
State Clearinghouse Number: N/A
Contact Person: Stephanie Gronlu Id, Associate Engineer
Area Code/Number/Extension: (92L
5) 516-5420
Project Location: Central portion Brentwood, Contra Costa County, State of California, between
Sand Creek/O'Hara loop roadway and Fairview Avenue
Project Description: Proposed construction of 4-lane arterial roadway with crossings of Marsh Creek,
Sand Creek and U.P.R.R. tracks.
This is to advise that the City of Brentwood approved the above-described project on May 23,
2000, and has made the following determinations regarding the above-described project:
I- The project will not have a significant effect on the environment.
2. A Negative Declaration prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of
CEQA.
3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project.
4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project.
S. Findings were made pursuant to the provisions of CEQA for this project.
This is to certify that the Negativtl Declaration with comments and responses and record of
project approval is available to the General Public at:
City Mall, Engineering Depart 08 Third Street, Brentwood, California 94513.
Ci ec
Sip, azure (Public Age cy) I t -
/Date: 1:�7
JUN 6 2000
S.L. WEIR, COUNTY CLERK
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
BY :Z DEPUTY
RESOLUTION NO. '2081
[ A RESOLUTION Or THE CITY COUNCIL OF TI-M, CITY OF
i311LNTWOOD kJ)OPTNG A MMTIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM FOR THE SAND CREEK ROADWAY PROJECT, CII' No.
33&3061
'A MEREAS, the Brcntwoad General Plan Circulation Policy Number 1.1 states that die
City should "implement the improvements in the Circulation System Map"-, and
WHEREAS, the B Intwood General Plan Conservation/Open Space Policy Number
7.2.1 states the City should "encourage new development to consider effects on the ecosystem in
their plan and propose mitigation to potential effects on the biological environment';and
WIIEIt1 AS, the Sand Creek Road Project is consistent with the Circulation Plan of the
Brentwood General Plan;and
W]`MF,REAS, the Initial Study relies on impact analysis and mitigation measures
contained in die environmiental Impact Report certified in 1993 (State Clearinghouse No.
92063113) which was prepared to assess impacts associated with the adoption of the Brentwood
General Plan;and
I
WHEREAS, a Mitigated Negative Declaration {"MND") has been prepared,publicized,
circulated and reviewed in accordance with die California Environmental Quality Act (Cal. Pub.
Res. Code sections 210001ef seq.,,"CEQA") and the State CEQA guidelines (Cal. Code Regs,
Title 17, sections 15000 of�seq., "CEQA Guidelines"),and
WHEREAS, the City Jias reviewed and considered the verbal and written information
provided by interested panics as well as the information provided in the Initial Study/Mitigated
Negative Declaration ("MND"). The MND reflects the Council's independent judgement;and
WHE,REAS, the mitigation measures listed in the MND shall be made conditions of
project approval to ensure that the project will not have significant effect on the environment. A
Mitigation Monitoring anid Reporting Program has also been prepared in accordance with CEQA
and Implementing Guidelines.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Brentwood that the
City hereby adopts the MND and associated Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program as
complete, adequate and in compliance with CEQA.
PASSED by th I City Council of the City of Brentwood at a regular meeting on the 23rd
day of May 2000 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Gomes, McPoland, Petrovich, Mayor Kidd
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembcr'Young
i
t
�artin L.Kidd
y47
ATTEST:
aren iaz,CMC
City Clerk
I
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
I
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
651 PINE STREET 4TH FLOOR NORTH WING MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA 94553-0095
Telephone: (925)313-2176 1 Contact Person: Trina Torres, Environmental Assistant
Project Description, Common Name (if any)and Location: Flood Control District Real Property Transactions associated
with the City of Brentwood Sand Creek Road Extension project, CP#06-28. In April of 2000, the City of Brentwood
published the Notice of Intent to Adopt the Sand Creek Road Extension Mitigated Negative Declaration. The Brentwood
City Council adopted the Mitigated Negative Declaration on May 23, 2000. The Contra Costa County Board of
Supervisors intends to adopt the City of Brentwood's Mitigated Negative Declaration to address the several necessary
Flood Control District real property transactions associated with the project.
Contra Costa County Flood Control and Watel Conservation District(District)plans to conduct real property transactions
with the City of Brentwood (City)in support of the Sand Creek Road Extension project. The real property transactions
include the exchange right-of-way between the District and the City near the Sand Creek Channel and granting
easements across Marsh Creek Channel. The District currently owns right-of-way on Sand Creek Road and intends to
exchange it with an equivalent area of right-of-way held by the City of Brentwood (City) in the Sand Creek Channel,as
part of the widening of Fairview Avenue. Thel areas are each approximately 0.3 acres in size and are located west of the
intersection of Sand Creek Road and Fairview Avenue. In addition, the District plans to provide land rights to the City of
Brentwood for portions of Sand Creek Channel at Fairview Avenue (approx. 0.5 acres). The District also plans to grant
easements (approx. 1 acre)for the Marsh Creek Channel to the City so that the City can construct and maintain O'Hara
Road and Sand Creek Road over Marsh Creek. Additionally, the City will convey right of way(approx. 0.7 acres)to the
District along both sides of Marsh Creek Channel. Location: The proposed activity is located in east Contra Costa
County, in the City of Brentwood, near the intersections of Fairview Avenue/Old Sand Creek Road and Sand Creek
Road / O'Hara Avenue, across Marsh Creeki Channel.
Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act:
{ ) An Environmental Impact Report was prepared and certified (SCH # )
( ) The Project was encompassed by an Environmental Impact Report previously prepared
for (SCH # ).
( X ) A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared. The Mitigated Neg Dec(adopted by the City of Brentwood) is being
adopted by the Board of Supervisor
Copies of the record of project approval and the(Negative Declaration or the final EIR may be examined at the office of the
Contra Costa County Community Development Department.
(X ) The City of Brentwood determined the project will not have a significant environmental effect with the incorporation of
mitigation into the project description. The Board of Supervisors is adopting the approved Mitigated Neg. Dec.
( ) The Project will have a significant environmental effect.
( X ) Mitigation measures were made a condition of approval of the project.
( ) A statement of overriding considerations was adopted.
( ) Findings were adopted pursuant to Section 15091 of the State CEQA Guidelines.
Date: By:
Community Development Department Representative
AFFIDAVIT OF FILING AND POSTING
I declare that on I I received and posted this notice as required by
California Public Resources Code Section 21152(c). Said notice will remain posted for 30 days from the filing
date.
Signature + Title
Applicant: Department of Fish and Game Fees Due
Contra Costa County Public Works Dept. EIR-$850 Total Due: $
255 Glacier Drive I Neg. Dec. - $1,250 Total Paid $
Martinez, CA 94553 1 DeMinimis Findings - $0
Attn: Trina Torres IX County Clerk- $50 Receipt#:
GAGrpData\EngSvc\ENVIRO\CEQA(2000-2003)\2001\Sand Crk.Rd-RP Trans\CEQA\NOD-Adopt.doc
CALIFORNIA,ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
651 PINE STREET 4TH FLOOR NORTH WING MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA 94553-0095
Telephone: (925)313-2176 Contact Person: Trina Torres, Environmental Assistant
Project Description, Common Name(if any)and Location: Flood Control District Real Property Transactions associated
with the City of Brentwood Sand Creek Road Extension project, CP#06-28. In April of 2000, the City of Brentwood
published the Notice of Intent to Adopt the Sand Creek Road Extension Mitigated Negative Declaration. The Brentwood
City Council adopted the Mitigated Negative Declaration on May 23, 2000. The Contra Costa County Board of
Supervisors intends to adopt the City of Brentwood's Mitigated Negative Declaration to address the several necessary
Flood Control District real property transactions associated with the project.
Contra Costa County Flood Control and Wate Conservation District(District)plans to conduct real property transactions
with the City of Brentwood (City) in support of the Sand Creek Road Extension project. The real property transactions
include the exchange right-of-way between the District and the City near the Sand Creek Channel and granting
easements across Marsh Creek Channel. The District currently owns right-of-way on Sand Creek Road and intends to
exchange it with an equivalent area of right-of-way held by the City of Brentwood (City) in the Sand Creek Channel, as
part of the widening of Fairview Avenue. The*eas are each approximately 0.3 acres in size and are located west of the
intersection of Sand Creek Road and Fairview Avenue. In addition,the District plans to provide land rights to the City of
Brentwood for portions of Sand Creek Channel at Fairview Avenue (approx. 0.5 acres). The District also plans to grant
easements (approx. 1 acre)for the Marsh Creek Channel to the City so that the City can construct and maintain O'Hara
Road and Sand Creek Road over Marsh Creek. Additionally, the City will convey right of way(approx. 0.7 acres)to the
District along both sides of Marsh Creek Channel. Location: The proposed activity is located in east Contra Costa
County, in the City of Brentwood, near the intersections of Fairview Avenue/Old Sand Creek Road and Sand Creek
Road /O'Hara Avenue, across Marsh Creek,Channel.
Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act:
( ) An Environmental Impact Report was prepared and certified (SCH# )
( } The Project was encompassed by an Environmental Impact Report previously prepared
for (SCH # ).
( X ) A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared. The Mitigated Neg Dec(adopted by the City of Brentwood) is being
adopted by the Board of Supervisors
Copies of the record of project approval and the,Negative Declaration or the final EIR may be examined at the office of the
Contra Costa County Community Development Department.
( X ) The City of Brentwood determined the project will not have a significant environmental effect with the incorporation of
mitigation into the project description. The Board of Supervisors is adopting the approved Mitigated Neg. Dec.
( ) The Project will have a significant environmental effect.
(X ) Mitigation measures were made a condition of approval of the project.
( ) A statement of overriding considerations was adopted.
( ) Findings were adopted pursuant to Section 15091 of the State CEQA Guidelines.
Date: By:
CommuIhity Development Department Representative
AFFIDAVIT OF FILING AND POSTING
I declare that on I I received and posted this notice as required by
California Public Resources Code Section 21152(c). Said notice will remain posted for 30 days from the filing
date.
Signature Title
Applicant: Department of Fish and Game Fees Due
Contra Costa County Public Works Dept. EIR -$850 Total Due: $
255 Glacier Drive Neg. Dec. -$1,250 Total Paid $
Martinez, CA 94553 I DeMinimis Findings- $0
Attn: Trina Torres IX County Clerk-$50 Receipt#:
G:1GrpData\EngSvcIENVIR0ICEQA(2000-2003)12001\Sand Crk.Rd-RP TransNCEQA\NOD-Adopt.doc
• I
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Initial Study/
Mitigated Negative Declaration
Project
City of Brentwood.
Sand Creek Road Extension
i
Lead Agency;
City of Brentwood
April, 2000
1
Table of Contents
Introduction........................................................................................ 2
Applicant/Contact Person..... .................................................................. 2
Project Location and Context .................................................................. 2
Project Description ............ .................................................................. 2
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected .................................................. 9
Determination ..................).................................................................. 9
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts.......................................................... 10
Earlier Analyses.... J ..
.................................................... ............•20
Attachment to Initial Study... .................................................................. 22
I. Aesthetics ..... .................................................................. 22
II. Agricultural Resources......................................................... 23
III. Air Quality.... .................................................................. 23
IV. Biological Resources ......................................... ................. 25
V. Cultural ReSOUfces.............................................................. 36
VI. Geology and Soils .............................................................. 37
VII. Hazards and Hazardous Materials............................................ 39
VIII. Hydrology andl Water Quality................................................. 40
IX. Land Use and Planning......................................................... 42
X. Mineral Resources..............................................................45
XI. Noise.............................................................................. 45
XII. Population and Housing........................................................ 50
XIII. Public Services .................................................................. 50
XIV. Recreation....i.......:........................................................... 51
XV. Transportation/Traffic.......................................................... 52
XVI. Utilities and Service Systems ................................................. 55
XV. Mandatory Findings of Significance ........................................ 56
Initial Study Preparers........I.................. ... 58
Agencies and Organizations Consulted........ ......... ... 58
References ..................... ................................................................... 58
I
I
i
j
City of Brentwood
Environmental Checklist/
Initial Study
Introduction
This Initial Study has been prepared in accord with the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and assesses the potential environmental impacts of
implementing the proposed project described below. The Initial Study consists of a completed
environmental checklist and a brief explanation of the environmental topics addressed in the
checklist.
Applicant/Contact Person
City of Brentwood Engineering Department
708 Third Street
Brentwood CA 94613
Attention: Stephanie Gronlund, RE, Associate Civil Engineer
Project Location and Context
The project site is located within central Brentwood, located in eastern Contra Costa County. A
portion of the project area presently lies in unincorporated Contra Costa County within the
sphere of influence of the City, of Brentwood.
The Sand Creek Road extension would be generally located between the State Route (SR) 4
Bypass (now under construction) on the west to Brentwood Boulevard on the east. More
specifically, the west end of tL road would begin at Linden Avenue west of Fairview Avenue
(currently a temporary roadway, to be demolished when final roadway improvements are built as.
part of this project) and extend in an east-west direction through central Brentwood. Sand Creek
Road would then terminate atIthe newly constructed Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Loop roadway
immediately west of Brentwood Boulevard.
The project would also consist of extending O'Hara Avenue to the intersection of Sand Creek
Road/O'Hara Avenue. This in would be built at its ultimate width and would be
designed as a one-way controlled intersection with four travel lanes and necessary turning lanes.
Exhibit 1 shows the regional setting of Brentwood and Exhibit 2 shows the local context of the
proposed project.
Project Description
The City of Brentwood proposes to construct a new portion of Sand Creek Road that would be
located as described in the previous section.
City of Brentwood Page 2
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
Proposed road improvements to be accomplished in the initial phase of construction would
consist of two travel lanes in an east-west direction within an approximate right-of-way width of
140 feet. Exhibit 3 shows the approximate location of the future road. Construction of the
roadway would require the acquisition of right-of-way from abutting properties, clearing of land,
grading for the creek and railroad crossings, excavation of the roadbed and construction of road
improvements. Road improvements in the initial phase are anticipated to consist of the two
inside travel lanes and a median in the middle of the road. New traffic signal systems would be
installed at the Fairview Avenue/Sand Creek Road intersection and at the O'Hara Avenue/Sand
Creek Road intersection, Underground utilities to be constructed within the right-of-way would
include sewer, water, non-potable water and storm drain lines as well as a conduit for a future
fiber optic line, Street lights would be installed approximately every 250 feet.
Two additional travel lanes would be added in each direction at some point in the future, based
I on future traffic volumes, although the segment from the SR 4 Bypass to Fairview Avenue is
planned to accommodate six travel lanes at ultimate build out. The second phase of construction
would also include construction of curbs, gutters, sidewalks and landscaping within the public
right-of-way.
Construction of the roadway would require the crossing of both Marsh Creek and Sand Creek. It
is anticipated that the crossing of Sand Creek would be via an extension of the existing box
culvert over the creek. Crossing of Marsh Creek would either be by installation of box culverts
or a bridge. An at-grade crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks west of Marsh Creek
would also be part of the projeIct.
The project would also include features to facilitate construction of pedestrian trails in the central
portion of Brentwood. Specifically, a pedestrian undercrossing would be constructed east of
Fairview Avenue to allow construction of a future north-south recreational trail as part of the
City's trail system. Immediately west of the proposed crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad
tracks a pedestrian undercrossing would be built as part of a future north-south trail. The
proposed crossing of Marsh Greek would be designed to accommodate the existing East Bay
Regional Parks District recreational trail on the south side of Marsh Creek.
The proposed roadway extension would include construction of new facilities to accommodate
anticipated increased levels of stormwater runoff. These improvements would consist of a new
storm drain inlet into Sand Creek near the existing box culvert located at the intersection of Sand
Creek Road and Fairview Avenue. A second new storm drain inlet would be constructed into
Marsh Creek at the proposed Marsh Creek crossing. Both facilities are anticipated to have a
diameter of 36 inches, although the final size would be determined based on further engineering
studies. The approximate location of the new storm drain inlets are shown on Exhibit 4.
The proposed crossing of the Union Pacific railroad tracks would also require the installation of
culverts or underground pipes to accommodate existing drainage swales at the base of either side
of the tracks.
This extension of Sand Creek Road is included as a major east-west arterial roadway in the
Transportation Element of the Brentwood General Plan.
Construction of the initial phase of improvements is anticipated in mid-2000.
City of Brentwood Page 3
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
Q
The project is also proposed to include minor improvements to existing roads in the vicinity of
the Sand Creek Road project, as follows:
• Minor widening of the west side of Minnesota Avenue from north of Spinnaker Ridge
subdivision to Sand Creek Road, eliminating ajog in the right-of-way line. A new curb
line would also be constructed along the west side of Minnesota Avenue.
• Minor widening of Fairview Avenue, north and south of the proposed Sand Creek Road
right-of-way to facilitate turning movements. Widenings would include approximately 10
feet on the east side of Fairview Avenue (north and south of the proposed intersection of
Fairview and proposed intersection with Sand Creek Road and approximately 25 feet
along the west side of Fairview north of the proposed intersection with Sand Creek Road.
City of Brentwood I Page 4
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Exhibit 1
REGIONAL LOCATION
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CITY OF BRENTWOOD o s io re zo m,es
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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LOCAL CONTEXT
--•—•—•— Brentwood City Limit
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CITY OF BRENTWOOD
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION ° z '` @
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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Exhibit 3
N
CITY OF BRENTWOOD PRELIMINARY
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION ROADWAY ALIGNMENT
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
1. Project description: Proposed construction of Sand Creek Road between the
existing eastern terminus east of Fairview Road to link with
existing Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Avenue Loop near
Brentwood Boulevard. The project involves one crossing
each of Marsh Creek and Sand Creek, a crossing of the
Union Pacific railroad tracks and two new storm water
outfalls: one into Marsh Creek and one into Sand Creek.
Minor road improvements to adjacent roads would also be
constructed.
2. Lead agency: City of Brentwood Engineering Department
708 Third Street
Brentwood CA 94613
3. Contact person: Stephanie Gronlund, Associate Civil Engineer
(925) 516 5420
4. Project location: Central portion of Brentwood
5. Project sponsor: City of Brentwood
6. General Plan designation: Varies, primarily Low Density Residential
7. Zoning: Varies, primarily R1 (Single Family Residential)
8. Other public agency required approvals:
• Permits from Contra.Costa County Flood Control District
• Encroachment Permit from East Bay Regional Parks District
• Streambed Alteration Permits from California Department of Fish and Game
• Approvals from California Public Utilities Commission for crossing of
Union Pacific Railroad tracks
• Approvals from Regional Water Quality Control Board
• Permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
City of Brentwood i Page 8
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i 1
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project,
involving at least one impact that is a "potentially significant impact" as indicated by the
checklist on the following pages.
X Aesthetics i Agricultural X Air Quality
J Resources
X Biological Resources X Cultural Resources X Geology/Soils
X Hazards and X Hydrology/Water - Land Use/ Planning
Hazardous Materials Quality
Mineral Resources X Noise - Population/Housing
X Public Services X Recreation X Transportation/
Circulation
X Utilities/Service Mandatory Findings
j Systems of Significance
I
Determination (to be completed by Lead Agency):
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
_ I find that the proposed project could not have a significant effect on the environment and a
Negative Declaration will be prepared.
X I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an
attached sheet have been added to the project. A Negative Declaration will be prepared.
_ I find that although the proposed project may have a significant effect on the environment,
but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to
applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on earlier
analysis as described on the attached sheets, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or
"potentially significant unless mitigated." An Environmental Impact Report is required, but
must only analyze the effects that remain to be addressed.
_I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
there will not be a significant,effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a)
have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have
been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation
measures that are imposed on the proposed project.
I Signature: Date: S w
Printed Name: l � For:
City of Brentwood Page 9
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "no impact" answers that are
adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parenthesis
following each question. A "no impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced
information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one
involved (e.g. the project(fails outside a fault rupture zone). A "no impact" answer should
be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general factors (e.g. the
project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific
screening analysis).
2) All answers must take account of the whole action, including off-site as well as on-site.
cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as
operational impacts.
3) "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect
is significant. If there are one or more "potentially significant impact" entries when the
determination is made, an EIR is required.
4) "Negative Declaration: less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" implies
elsewhere the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "potentially
significant effect" to a "less than significant impact." The lead agency must describe the
mitigation measures and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant
level.
I
I
City of Brentwood f Page 10
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
1
Environmental Impacts (Note: Source of determination listed in parenthesis. See listing
of sources used to determine each potential impact at the end of the checklist)
Note: A full discussion of each item is found Potentially Less Than Less than No
following the checklist. Significant Significant Significant Impact I
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
I. Aesthetics. Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse impact on a scenic X
vista? (Source: 3)
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including but not limited to trees, rock X
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway? (Source: 2, 3)
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual
character or quality of the site and its I X
surroundings? (Source: 2,3)
d) Create a new source of substantial light or
glare which would adversely affect day or X
nighttime views in the area? (Source: 3)
Il. Agricultural Resources
Would the project: J
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland or,
Farmland of Statewide Importance, as
showing on the maps prepared pursuant to X
the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring
Program of the California Resources
Agency, to a non-agricul+ural use? (Source:
1, 2)
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agriculture 1
use, or a Williamson Act contract? (Source: X —
1, 2, 3) II I
c) Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, dueto their location or X ,
nature, could result in conversion of I
farmland to a non-agriculturaluse? (Source:
2, 3)
III. Air Quality (Where available, the
significance criteria established by the
applicable air quality management district
may be relied on to make the following
determinations). Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of X
the applicable air qualilty plan? (Source: 2 )
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute X
substantially to an existing or projected air
I
quality violation? (Source: 2)
I
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No�
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitieation
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria,pollutant for which I
the project region is non-attainment under an X
applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing
emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors? (Source:2)
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial X
pollutant concentrations?(Source:3 )
e) Create objectionable odors? (Source:3 ) X
IV. Biological Resources. Would the project
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either
directly through habitat modifications, on X
any species identified as a candidate,
sensitive, or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies or regulations, or by
the California Department of Fish and Game
or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
(Source:4 ) II
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any
I riparian habitat or other sensitive natural i
community identified in local or regional X
plans, policies or regulations or by the
California Departmentlof Fish and Game or,
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? (Source: I
4)
c) Have a substantial adverse impact on
federally protected wetlands as defined by X
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including but not limited to marsh, vernal
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption or other
means?
(Source: 4)
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of
any native resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species or with established native X
resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or
impede the use of native wildlife nursery
sites? (Source: 4)
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances X
protecting biological resources, such as tree
protection ordinances? (Source: 4)
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation i
f) Conflict with the provision of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural l
Community Conservation Plan or other X
approved local, regional or state habitat
conservation plan? (Source: 4)
V. Cultural Resources. Would the project
a) Cause a substantial adverse impact in the
significance of a historical resource as X
defined in Sec. 15064.5? (Source: 2)
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archeological resource X
pursuant to Sec. 15064.5 (Source:2 ) j
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or unique geologic X
feature? (Source: 2)
d) Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of a fori al cemetery? X
(Source: 2)
VI. Geology and Soils. Would the project
a) Expose people or structures to potential
substantial adverse effects, including the risk
of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Fault Zoning Map issued by the State X
Geologist or based on other known evidence I
of a known fault (Source:2)
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking (2) X
iii) Seismic-related groundifailure, including
liquefaction? (Source: 2) X :::x
iv) Landslides? (Source: 2, 3) X
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of X
topsoil? (Source: 2, 3)
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is
unstable, or that wouldlbecome unstable as a
result of the project and potentially result in X
on- and off-site landslide, lateral spreading,
subsidence, liquefaction or collapse (Source: .
1, 2,)
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 13-1-B of the Uniform Building Code
(1994), creating substantial risks to life or X
property? (Source: 2)
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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c
Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
e) Have soils capable of adequately supporting X
the use of septic tanks dor alternative
wastewater disposal systems where sewers
are not available for the disposal of waste?
(Source: 2)
VII. Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Would
the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport,
use or disposal of hazardous materials X
(Source: 2)
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the X
release of hazardous into the environment?
(Source:2 )
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or X
proposed school? (Source: 2, 3)
d) Be located on a site which is included on a
list of hazardous materials sites complied
pursuant to Government Code Sec. 65962.5 X j
and, as a result, wouldit create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment?
(Source: 2)
e) For a project located within an airport land j
use plan or, where such plan has not been
adopted, would the project result in a safety X
hazard for people residing or working in the
project area? (Source: 2, 3)
f) For a project within the Ivicinity of private
airstrip, would the project result in a safety X
hazard for people residing or working in the
project area? (Source: 2, 3)
g) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with the adopted emergency X
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan?
(Source: 2, 3)
City of Brentwood Page 14
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April2000
Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
h) Expose people or structures to a significant
risk of loss, injury or death involving
wildland fires, including where wildlands X
are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands? I
(Source: 2, 3)
IX. Hydrology and Water Quality. Would the
project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements? (Source: 2, 7) X
_T
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater
recharge such that there)would be a net
deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the j
local groundwater table level (e.g. the X
production rate of existing nearby wells
would drop to a level which would not
support existing land uses or planned uses
for which permits have been granted?
(Source: 2)
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern of the site or area, including through j
the aeration of the course of a stream or X
river, in a manner which would result in
substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-
site? (Source: 2, 7) l _
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern of the site or areas, including through
the alteration of a course or stream or river, X
or substantially increase the rate or amount
of surface runoff in a manner which would
result in flooding on- or off-site? (Source: 2)
e) Create or contribute runoff water which
would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned stormwater drainage systems or X
provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff? (Source: 2, 3)
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water X
quality? (Source: 2, 8)
g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard I
area as mapped on a Flood Hazard Boundary X j
or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood
delineation map? (Source:7)
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact i
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area
structures which impede or redirect flood X
flows? (Source:7)
i) Expose people or structures to a significant
risk of loss,-injury, and death involving X
flooding, including flooding as a result of
the failure of a levee or dam? (Source:7)
j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflow? X
IX. Land Use and Planning. Would the project: �
a) Physically divide an established community? X i
(Source: 1, 2, 3)
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan,
policy, or regulation of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including but X
not limited to the general plan, specific plan, i
local coastal plan, or zoning ordinance) I
adopted for the purpose of avoiding or j
mitigating an environmental effect? (Source: !
1, 2)
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat
conservation plan or natural 1, 2) X
X. Mineral Resources. Would the project
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known
j mineral resource that would be of value to X
the region and the residents of the state?
(Source:2 )
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally
important mineral resource recovery site X
delineated on a local general Plan, specific
plan or other land use plan? (Source: 2) I
XI. Noise. Would the proposal result in
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise
levels in excess of stanldards established in
the general plan or noise ordinance, or X
applicable standards of other agencies?
(Source: 5)
b) Exposure of persons or Ito generation of X
excessive groundbome vibration or
groundborne noise levels? (Source: 5)
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient
noise levels in the project vicinity above X
existing levels without the project? (Source:
j 5)
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact '
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase
in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity X
above levels without thelproject? (Source: 5)
e) For a project located within an airport land
use plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport X i
or public use airport, would the project
expose people residing or working n the
project area to excessive
noise levels ?
(Source: 2)
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private I
airstrip, would the project expose people X
residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels? (Source: 2)
XII. Population and Housing. Would the project
a) Induce substantial population growth in an
area, either directly or indirectly (for X
example, through extension of roads or other I I
infrastructure)? (Source: 2)
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing
housing, necessitating the construction of X i
replacement housing elsewhere? (Source: 3)
c) Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the replacement of housing X
elsewhere? (Source: 2, 3)
XIII. Public Services. Would the proposal:
a) Would the project result in substantial adverse
physical impacts associated with the
provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities the construction of
which could cause significant environmental
impacts, in order to maintain acceptable
service rations, response times or other
performance objectives for any of the public
services? (Source: 2, 7)
Fire protection? X'
Police protection X
Schools X
Parks X
Other public facilities X
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitieation
_ I
XIV. Recreation:
a) Would the project increase the use of existing - '
neighborhood or regional facilities such that X
substantial physical deterioration of the
facility would occur or be accelerated
(Source: 3)
b) Does the project include recreational facilities
or require the construdIion or expansion of X
recreational facilities which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment?
(Source: 3, 7)
XV. Transportation and Traffic. Would the
project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is ~—
substantial in relation to the existing traffic
load and capacity of the street system (i.e. X
result in a substantial increase in either the
number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads or congestion at
intersections)? (Source:6)
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a
level of service standard established by the I X
County Congestion Management Agency for I
designated roads or highways? (Source:6) _ I
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns,
including either an increase in traffic levels
or a change in locationithat results in X
substantial safety risks+? (Source:2, 6 ) i
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design ~
feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous X
intersections) or incompatible uses, such as
farm equipment? (Source:7)
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? (2) X
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? (2) X
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans or
programs supporting alternative transportation X
(such as bus turnouts and bicycle facilities) (2)
I
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
XVI. Utilities and Service Systems. Would the
project
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of i
the applicable Regional Water Quality X
Control Board? (Source:7)
b) Require or result in the construction of new
water or wastewater treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the X j
construction of which could cause I
significant environmental effects? (7)
c) Require or result in the construction of new
storm water drainage facilities or expansion
of existing facilities, the icon struction of X
which could cause significant environmental i
effects? (Source:7)
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to I ,
serve the project from existing water j X
entitlements and resources, or are new or
expanded entitlements needed? (7) 1
e) Result in a determinationiby the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may
serve the project that it has adequate X
capacity to serve the project's projected
demand in addition to the providers existing
commitments? (Source:17)
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient
permitted capacity to accommodate the X
project's solid waste disposal need
s?(7)
g) Comply with federal, state and local statutes X
and regulations related to solid waste?(7)
XVI. Mandatory Findings of Significance.
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade
the quality of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife
species, cause a fish orwildlife population to X
drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to
eliminate a plant or animal community,
reduce the number of or restrict the range of
a rare or endangered plant or animal or
eliminate important examples of the major
periods of California history or prehistory?
is
City of Brentwood Page 19
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Potentially Less Than Less than No
Significant Significant Significant I Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable'
means that the incremental effects of a X
project are considerable when viewed in i
connection with the effects of past projects,
the effects of other current projects and the
effects of probable future projects).
c) Does the project have environmental effects
which will cause substantial adverse effects X i
on human beings, either directly or
indirectly?
Sources used to determine potential environmental impacts
1. General Plan
2. General Plan ETR
3. Site visit
4. Biological ResourcesAnalysis prepared by James Martin
5. Acoustic Impact Report prepared by Charles Salter Associates
6. Traffic analysis prepared by George Nickelson
7. Discussion with City of Brentwood staff
8 Other source
Earlier Analyses
Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA
process, one or more effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative
declaration. Reference Section 15063 (c)(3)(d).
a) Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review.
Portions of the environmental setting, project impacts and mitigation measures for
this Initial Study refer to environmental information contained in the 1993 General
Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Copies of this documents is available for
public review at the City of Brentwood Planning Department.
b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within
the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and state whetherlsuch effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on an
earlier analysis. These have been described in the above checklist and/or the accompanying
checklist description.
City of Brentwood Page 20
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are "less than significant with mitigation incorporated,"
describe the mitigation,measures which are incorporated or refined from the earlier document
and the extent to which they address site specific conditions for the project.
I
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City of Brentwood Page 21
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Attachment to Initial Study
Discussion of Checklist
Legend
PS: Potentially Significant
LPSIM: Less Than Significant After Mitigation
LS: Less Than Significant Impact
NL• No Impact
I. Aesthetics
Environmental Setting
Sand Creek Road Extension
Sand Creek Road extension site is generally flat and contains no significant geologic features,
such as rock outcroppings, stands of major trees or similar features. Two significant aesthetic
features include Marsh Creek which traverses the easterly portion of the study area and Sand
Creek, which is found on the westerly boundary of the proposed roadway extension. Properties
adjoining the proposed roadway alignment are planned for low density residential development
by the City of Brentwood and two subdivisions are currently under construction adjacent to the
proposed roadway right-of-way.
In general, the proposed roadway right-of-way is vacant with the properties used for grazing or
field crops for a number of years.
There are no local or state designated scenic highways near the project site.
Project Impacts and Mitigati In Measures
a,c) Have a substantial adverse on a scenic vista? LS. Construction of the project would
involve constructing at-grade roadway improvements along a majority of the right-of-way.
Portions of the proposed road would be elevated above the existing grade level and could
i be viewed by motorists using the new road, motorists on nearby roads, users of nearby
recreational trails and residents and visitors of nearby residences. The proposed pedestrian .
overcrossing near Fairview Road is anticipated to extend approximately 6 feet above
existing grade and the proposed bridge over Marsh Creek may extend as high as 10 feet
above existing grade to accommodate the proposed pedestrian undercrossing for the
existing Marsh Creek trail. In addiiton, the extension of Sand Creek Road would be
elevated in the vicinity of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to accommodate the at-grade
crossing of the tracks. Although these portions of the roadway would be visible from
adjacent sites, views of the proposed roadway is not anticipated to be adverse and a less-
than-significant impact would result regarding adverse impacts to scenic vistas.
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including state scenic highway? NI. No major
scenic resource is located on the sites, so no damage would be caused to such a resource.
No local or state designated scenic highways are located on or adjacent to the sites.
Therefore, no impact would result.
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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d),�. Create light or glare? LS/M. The Sand Creek Road extension could have a negative
aesthetic impact on residential dwellings, existing and future, through the "spill over" of
unwanted street lighting This could be a significant impact. The following mitigation is
therefore recommended to reduce spillover of lighting impacts to a level of less-than-
significant:
Mitigation Measure 1: Pole-mounted street lights shall be equipped with cut-off
lenses and oriented down toward interior streets to minimize unwanted light and
glare spill over.
II. Agricultural Resources
Environmental Setting
The soils underlying the proposed Sand Creek Road extension has been classed as a Class 2
Prime Agricultural Soils (General Plan EIR, Figure 10), Figure 1 1 of the General Plan EIR notes
that site soils are "prime farmland.''
Much of the land through which the road extension is proposed has been recently used for dry
land farming or cattle grazing.
According to the General Plan EIR, there are no Williamson Act Land Conservation agreements
on properties that would be affected by the road extension.
I
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a-c) Convert Prime Farmland, conflict with agricultural Zoning or convert prime farmland to a
non-agricultural use? LS. Construction of the proposed roadway would convert vacant,
prime agricultural lands to a public roadway. Although this would normally be a potentially
significant impact, a Statement of Overriding Considerations (City of Brentwood
Resolution No. 93-53) was adopted as part of the General Plan EIR certification, with loss
of prime agricultural soils specifically listed as an impact that cannot be feasibly mitigated.
Therefore, loss of agricultural soils and resources would be considered a less-than-
significant impact and no further analysis of this impact is required.
II1. Air Quality
Environmental Setting
The project area is located on the southern shore of the San Joaquin River delta, east of the
Carquinez Strait. This geographic portion of Contra Costa County is typified by winds flowing
through the Carquinez Strait and into the Delta. -
Air quality emissions within Contra Costa County is regulated on the federal level by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), on the state level by the California Air Resources
Board (CARE) and on a regional and local level by the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District (BAAQMD). Federal and state air emission standards have been established for the
following substances: carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter (PM-10), nitrogen dioxide,
sulfur dioxide and lead.
City of Brentwood Page 23
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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The BAAQMD maintains monitoring stations at Concord, Pittsburg and Bethel Island within
Contra Costa County. As indicated in the General Plan EIR, there were minimal exceedances of
State and federal air quality standards through 1990 for ozone and carbon monoxide.
Project Impacts and Mitigati In Measures
a) Would the project c'onfl'ict or obstruct implementation of an air quality plan? NI. The
proposed road extension would not conflict with the local Clean Air Plan adopted by the
Bay Area Air Quality Management District to improve air quality in the basin. Therefore,
no impacts would result'.
b) Would the project violate any air quality standards?LS/M. Short-term construction
impacts related to the proposed project, including grading, excavation and related
construction activities, could result in exceedances of air quality standards established by
the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. This would be a potentially significant
impact due to releases of wind-borne fugitive dust. Mitigation Measure 2, below, is
recommended to ensure.that short term grading and related construction activities comply
with air quality standards and will reduce any such impacts to a level of less-than-
significant.
Mitigation Measure 2: The following measures shall be adhered to during all
construction phases of the roadway construction project:
• As part of the grading plan and grading operations, the project contractor shall
ensure that the site is watered prior to commencement of grading and that
watering occur on a sufficiently frequent basis to control dust;
• Paving of roads should occur as soon as possible after grading of the site;
Revegetation of graded sites should occur as soon as possible after grading;
• Stockpiled earthen material shall be either covered with a tarp or watered
frequently;
• Trucks hauling earthen material shall be covered;
• A compliance officer, responsible for implementation and monitoring, shall be
identified ase part of the grading permit process.
c) Would the project result in cumulatively considerable air pollutants? LS. The proposed
Sand Creek Road extension would facilitate additional traffic within the Brentwood
Planning Area (See Section XV,Transportation ), however, the amount of traffic to be
added to the local roadway system and the associated amounts of air emissions have been
anticipated in the Brentwood General Plan and the impacts analyzed in the General Plan
EIR. The General Plan EIR found that long-term regional air pollutant emissions would be
significant and full mitigation of this impact are not considered feasible.A Statement of
Overriding Considerations (City of Brentwood Resolution No. 93-53) identified air quality
impact as a remaining significant impact. Therefore, based on this previous action,
cumulative air quality impacts would be less-than-significant and no further analysis is
required.
d,e) Expose sensitive receptors to significant pollutant concentrations or create objectionable
odors? NI. The proposed project would not include residential dwellings so.that no impacts
would occur.
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IV. Biological Resources
Environmental Setting
[Note: The following section has been prepared by James Martin, a field biologist, based on a
site investigation conducted on July 12, 1999.1
Biological resources along the proposed Sand Creek Road Extension project alignment were
identified through a review o I past background information and detailed surveys and a field
reconnaissance survey. Available documentation was reviewed to provide information on
general resource in the area, presence of sensitive natural communities, and the distribution and
habitat requirements of special-status species which have been recorded from or are suspected to
occur in the site vicinity. A field reconnaissance survey was conducted by James Martin,
principal of Environmental Collaborative, on 12 July 1999 to determine the vegetation and
wildlife resources, extent of sensitive natural communities, potential for jurisdictional wetlands.
and habitat suitability for special-status species. The following provides a summary of the
biological and wetland resources along the proposed alignment, and an assessment of the
significance of potential impacts of project implementation.
Vegetation and wildlife
The proposed alignment site consists of primarily open fields historically used for agriculture
and/or grazing. The area is transitioning to residential uses, and the fallow fields are being
replaced with residences, roadways, and landscaping. The proposed alignment would cross the
Marsh Creek and Sand Creek!channels, and both of these creeks support a narrow band of
freshwater marsh vegetation along the channel bottom. Riparian vegetation is absent along both
these creeks in the vicinity of the proposed alignment due to routine maintenance of the channels
j by the Contra Costa County Flood Control District.
Vegetative cover along the proposed alignment was either absent at the time of the July 1999
reconnaissance as a result of discing and grading, or consisted of a cover of non-native grasses
and ruderal (weedy) species.!The western half of the site, from the edge of the Sand Creek
channel to the berm along the Union Pacific railroad right-of-way was devoid of vegetation.
Non-native grassland occurs on the slopes of the railroad right-of-way and the pastureland to the
east. Irrigation runoff in an drainage ditches along either side of the railroad right-of-way
support a narrow band of emergent vegetation. On the west side of the right-of-way, this consists
of a one-foot wide band of nut sedge (Cyperus echinatus). On the east side of the right-of-way
the drainage is less defined, approximately five feet in width and composed of cattail (Typha
sp.), saltgrass (Disticlis spicata) curly dock (Rumex crispus), and tobacco tree (Nicotiaha
glauca).
The creek corridors support a cover of non-native grassland on the channel banks and freshwater
marsh species on the channel bottom. Non-native grasses and ruderal species on the channel
banks include: wild oat (Ave na fatua), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), bindweed
(Convolvulus arvensis), and yellow star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis). Both creek segments
along the proposed alignment have been recontoured as part of flood control improvements,
eliminating any riparian vegetation, shrubs, and trees along the banks. The channel bottoms
support rapidly colonizing species such as cattail, saltgrass and curly dock.
Wildlife observed along the proposed alignment are typical of agricultural and suburban habitats.
The absence of any vegetative cover over most of the site and on-going disturbance limits the
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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habitat suitability for wildlife. Common species in the vicinity include: black-tailed jackrabbit,
California ground squirrel, Bottae pocket gopher, scrub jay, mourning dove, American crow,
European starling, American kestrel, red-tailed hawk and turkey vulture. No important nesting or
denning activity was observed on or in the immediate vicinity of the proposed alignment.
The absence of well-developed freshwater marsh and riparian cover along the creek segments
limits their value to wildlife. No amphibians or aquatic species were observed during the July
1999 reconnaissance, although the creek channels most likely function as movement corridors
for a number of species. At least one species of swallow was observed nesting in the concrete
box culvert at the Fairview Road crossing over Sand Creek. More than 40 mud nests were found
attached to the vertical wall of the culvert, with numerous adults and evidence of young in the
nests. Due to the proximity of perennial flows from Sand Creek and the abundance of insect
prey, the box culvert provides ideal nesting habitat for barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), cliff
swallow (Hirundo pyrrhonota) and violet green swallow (Tachycineta thalassina):
Special-Status Species
Special-status species' are plants and animals that are legally protected under the state and/or
federal Endangered Species Acts'or other regulations, as well as other species that are
considered rare enough by the scientific community and trustee agencies to warrant special
consideration, particularly with regard to protection of isolated populations, nesting or denning
locations, communal roosts and other essential habitat. Species with legal protection under the
Endangered Species Acts often represent major constraints to development, particularly when
they are wide ranging or highly sensitive to habitat disturbance and where proposed development
would result in a "take"'of these species.
Past and on-going disturbance associated with flood control improvements along the creek
channels, and grading and disking of uplands has eliminated the potential for occurrence of any
Special-status species include: designated rare, threatened, or endangered and candidate
species for listing by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG); designated threatened
or endangered and ca4date species for listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS);
species considered rare or endangered under the conditions of Section 15380 of the California
Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, such as those plant species identified on lists 1A, 16 and 2
in the Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California by the California Native
Plant Society (CNPS); and possibly other species which are considered sensitive or of special
concern due to limited distribution or lack of adequate information to permit listing or rejection for
state or federal status, such as those included on list 3 in the CNPS Inventory or identified as
animal "Species of Special Concern" by the CDFG.
2 The federal Endangered' Species Act (FESA) of 1973 declares that all federal departments and
agencies shall utilize their authority to conserve endangered and threatened plant and animal
species. The California Endangered Species Act (CESA) of 1984 parallels the policies of FESA
and pertains to native California species.
s 'Take" as defined by the FESA means "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap,
1.
capture or collect' a threatened or endangered species. "Harm" is further defined by the USFWS
to include the killing or' harming of wildlife due to significant obstruction of essential behavior
patterns (i.e., breeding, feeding, or sheltering) through significant habitat modification or
degradation. The CDFG also considers the loss of listed species habitat as take, although this
policy lacks statutory authority and case law support under the CESA.
City of Brentwood Page 26
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
special-status plant species aloi?g the proposed alignment. All of the plant species encountered
during the July 1999 field reconnaissance were non-native, and much of the ground surface was
stripped of vegetation.
A number of special-status animal species are known from the Brentwood vicinity and northeast
Contra Costa County. These species are listed in Table 1, and include: California tiger
salamander, western pond turtle, California red-legged frog, tricolored blackbird, golden eagle,
burrowing owl, ferrugineous hawk, northern harrier, yellow warbler, white-tailed kite, California
horned lark, merlin, prairie falcon, peregrine falcon, loggerhead shrike, American badger, and
San Joaquin kit, among others!Information on each of these species is discussed below, together
with conclusions on their potential for occurrence along the proposed alignment.
California Red-Legged Frog. This frog is listed as a threatened species by the USFWS, and is
known from the Marsh Creek drainage upstream from Marsh Creek Reservoir, about five miles
to the southwest. This species requires still or slow-moving water during the breeding season,
where it deposits large egg masses, usually attached to submerged or emergent vegetation. Red-
legged frogs are capable of dispersing long distances from aquatic habitat, and may utilize
ephemeral water sources during the wet season. They may take refuge in small mammal
burrows, beneath leaf litter or in other moist areas during periods of inactivity or whenever
necessary to avoid desiccationl.
Habitat along the proposed alignment is largely unsuitable for California red-legged frog. The
channel segments lack riparian vegetation and well-developed freshwater marsh which are
important as protective cover, and the creeks most likely support populations of predatory
species such as bull frog, centrarchid fish species, and crayfish, which are all known to feed on
eggs and larvae of other amphibians such as red-legged frog. Peak flood flows in the creeks most
likely flush any amphibians from the channels during the winter months. Protocol surveys
conducted for the 114 acre Spa-L Project site which encompassed a large portion of the proposed
alignment on the west side of Ithe railroad right-of-way did not find any evidence of red-legged
frog (Monk & Associates, 1998), and the USFWS concluded that no take is likely to occur
(USFWS, 1998). The SPA L Project was to include a new outfall structure in the Marsh Creek
channel to drain surface runoff from future development, and the surveys extended along the
affected segment of Marsh Cr eek.
California Tioer Salamander. The distribution of California tiger salamander has declined due to
conversion of valley and foothill grassland habitat to agricultural and urban uses (Stebbins,
1985). Adult salamanders occupy burrows made by California ground squirrel and other rodents
for much of the year, and migrate to water sources to breed after the first hard rains in the fall.
This subspecies breeds in temporary pools and permanent water, usually associated with
grassland and open woodlands, where the water source lasts at least through late spring to permit
development of larval young. Suitable breeding pools are absent along the proposed alignment,
and the presence of predatory species in Sand and Marsh creeks most likely precludes use of the
channel segments in the project vicinity for breeding.
City of Brentwood Page 27
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
1, G
Table 1
Special-Status Animal Species
Potential Occurrence in Project Vicinity
Status Habitat Characteristics
Taxa Name Federal/State
AMPHIBIANS/REPTILES
Ambystonza tigrinum californiMse C/CSC Grassland and open woodlands with
temporary or permanent water
California tiger salamander
Clemmvs marmorata */CSC Ponds, marshes, rivers, and streams
Western pond turtle
Rana aurora draytoni FT/CSC Permanent ponds, pools, and streams
California red-legged frog
BIRDS
Agelaius tricolor */CSC Waterways and adjacent grassland and
agricultural fields Tricolored
blackbird
Aquila chn?saetos -/CSC, CP Open mountains, foothills, and canyons
Golden eagle
Athene cunicularia -/CSC Open grassland and fields, farms. and
ruderal areas
Burrowing owl
Buteo regalis */CSC Forages in variety of habitats, but not
known to breed in Ferruginous hawk California
Circus cuneus -/CSC Marshes, fields, and grassland
Northern harrier
Dendroica petechia brewsteri -1 Dense willow and riparian woodlands
Yellow warbler
Elanus caeruleus -/CP Open foothills, marshes, and grassland
White-tailed kite
Eremophila alpestris actia */CSC Open habitat with sparse cover
California horned lark
Falco colunibariaus -/CSC Forages in variety of habitats, but not
known to breed in Merlin California
Falco tnexicanus -/CSC Canyons, mountains, open grassland
Prairie falcon
Falco peregrinus FE/SE, CP Canyons, mountains, open grassland
Peregrine falcon
Lanius ludovicianus */CSC Open habitat with scattered trees, shrubs,
and other perches Loggerhead shrike
MAMMALS
Taxidea taxus -/CSC Grassland, oak savanna, and woodland
American badger
Vulpes macrotis mutica FE/ST Alkali sink, saltbrush scrub, grassland, and
oak savanna
San Joaquin kit fox
City of Brentwood Page 28
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
Status Designations
Federal:
FE =Listed as Endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FT =Listed as Threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act.
PE =Proposed for federal listing as "endangered"..
PT =Proposed for federal listing as "threatened".
C =A candidate species under review for federal listing. Candidates includes taxa for which the
USFWS has sufficient biological information to support a proposal to list as endangered
or threatened.
* =These species were considered to be category 2 candidate taxa for federal listing until 28
February 1996 when the USFWS revised their status classification system. These
species no longer Have any candidate designation, but are unofficially classified as
species of concern and could be added to the candidate list if information demonstrates
they warrant listing.
State:
SE =Listed as Endangered under the California Endangered Species Act.
ST =Listed as Threatened under the California Endangered Species Act.
CP =California fully protected species; individual may not be possessed or taken at any time.
CSC =Considered a species;of special concern by the California Department of Fish and Game:
taxa have no formal legal protection but nest sites and communal roosts are generally
recognized as significant biotic features.
I
City of Brentwood Page 29
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
I
Western Pond Turtle. This species occurs in permanent freshwater ponds, lakes, marshes and
creeks where basking and retreat habitat is present. The pond turtle is aquatic, but basks along
shorelines and partially submerged logs or rocks, and has been known to lay its eggs in grassland
habitat up to 0.5 miles from a permanent water source. Both Marsh and Sand creeks provide
suitable dispersal corridors for this species, although deep pools necessary for retreat are absent
along the segments where the proposed alignment would cross the channels.
San Joaquin Kit Fox. It appears that kit fox historically inhabited most of the alkali sink
community of the San Joaquin Valley and adjacent valley systems (Morrell, 1972, 1975). Kit
fox also occupied the lower reaches of many of the surrounding foothill grasslands, extending
into western San Joaquin and leastern Contra Costa and Alameda counties. However, intensive
agricultural development, livestock grazing and ground squirrel eradication through the use of
poison, have greatly reduced the extent of suitable habitat for this subspecies during the past half
century. Other factors that may affect kit fox populations include illegal shooting and trapping,
road kills, lack of adequate denning sites and interspecific competition with and predation by
coyote and red fox. Currently, kit fox occur in the remaining alkali scrub and grassland habitat,
with sporadic occurrences in savanna, woodland, and suitable agricultural habitat.
Eastern Contra Costa County'currently represents the northern-most extent of the known range
of the San Joaquin kit fox. The proposed alignment is just outside the range for kit fox according
to mapping by Morrell in 1975. The closest reported kit fox sightings are from the Black
Diamond Mines Regional Preserve about seven miles to the west, the Walnut Boulevard/Camino
Diablo intersection about six miles to the south, and south of Byron about eight miles to the
southeast. No recent sightings of kit fox have been made from the north Brentwood vicinity, and
the USFWS recently concluded that no take of kit fox was likely to occur for SPA-L Project site
encompassing a large portion of the proposed alignment (USFWS, 1998).
American Badeer. This large mammal occurs in grassland and savanna habitat with abundant
prey. Badgers excavate burrows for denning, and to extract ground squirrels, gophers and other
prey. This species has declined or been eliminated from large areas of the state due to
agricultural and urban development, and has been designated a Species of Special Concern by
the CDFG. Due to the extent of development in the project vicinity, the proposed alignment is
no longer believed to provide suitable habitat for this species. No evidence of any badger
diggings were observed during the July 1999 field reconnaissance.
Burrowing Owl. This owl has no legal status under the federal or state Endangered Species Acts,
but is protected under the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act' and is recognized as a
Species of Special Concern by the CDFG, like many of the raptors known to occur in the
Brentwood vicinity. Destruction of California ground squirrel colonies, conversion of
-- pastureland to agricultural and urban development, poisoning and human disturbance have been
the major reasons for the decline of this species. Suitable nesting habitat occurs in ground
squirrel colonies along the railroad right-of-way and along the creek channels, however no
evidence of any nesting activity was observed during the July 1999 field reconnaissance. There
is a possibility that owls could establish nests in the vicinity of proposed improvements in the
future.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act does not provide protection for habitat of migratory birds, but does
prohibit the destruction or possession of individual birds, eggs, or nests in active use without a
permit from the USFWS.
City of Brentwood Page 30
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Other Bird Species of Concern. Suitable foraging and possibly breeding habitat for several other
bird species of concern occurs in the Brentwood vicinity, including: golden eagle, northern
harrier, yellow warbler, white-tailed kite, ferruginous hawk, merlin, prairie falcon, loggerhead
shrike, horned lark, and tricolored blackbird. Most of these have been identified as Species of
Special Concern by the CDFG, but have no legal protective status under the state or federal
Endangered Species Acts. Active nests of raptors, including red-tailed hawk, are protected under
the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Section 3503.5 of the State Fish and Game Code.
Due to the extent of development and lack of cover over most of the proposed alignment, the site
is not considered essential habitat for any of the other bird species of concern. Other then the
swallow nests observed in the box culvert under Fairview Road, no evidence of any nesting
activity was observed during the July 1999 field reconnaissance. Suitable nesting habitat for
tricolored blackbird is absent along the segments of the creek channels where crossings are
proposed. Similarly, areas of dense riparian scrub required for nesting by yellow warble is also
absent. The remaining grasslands may provide occasional foraging habitat for loggerhead shrike,
horned lark, and raptor species of concern, but essential nesting habitat is absent due to the extent
of past development an on-going disturbance.
Several other special-status species are known from northeast Contra Costa, but are not
suspected to occur along the proposed alignment due to a complete absence of suitable habitat or
essential features such as potential roost and nest sites. These include invertebrate species of
concern and roost habitat for Townsend's western big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii
townsendii), pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus), western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis), and other bat
species of concern.
Wetlands
Although definitions vary to some degree, wetlands are generally considered to be areas that are
periodically or permanently inundated by surface or ground water, and support vegetation
adapted to life in saturated soil. Wetlands are recognized as important features on a regional and
national level due to their high inherent value to fish and wildlife, use as storage areas for storm
and flood waters, and water recharge, filtration and purification functions.
The CDFG, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and California Regional Water Quality
Control Board have jurisdiction over modifications to wetlands and other "waters of the United
States." Jurisdiction of the Corps is established through provisions of Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act, which prohibits the discharge of dredged or fill material without a permit. Regional
Water Quality Control Board jurisdiction is established through Section 401 of the Clean Water
Act, which requires certification or waiver to control discharges in water quality. Jurisdictional
authority of the CDFG over wetland areas is established under Sections 1601-1606 of the State
Fish and Game Code, whichlpertains to activities that would disrupt the natural flow or alter the
channel, bed or bank of any lake, river or stream.
A preliminary wetland assessment for the proposed alignment was conducted during the field
reconnaissance in July of 1999. Potential jurisdictional habitat was limited to the bed and bank
of the Marsh and Sand creeks. Indicator wetland species were also observed along man-made
drainage ditches on either side of the railroad right-of-way. However, vegetation in these
ditches are dependent on irrigation runoff and the drainages are man-made features constructed
City of Brentwood Page 31
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
I
i
in uplands. The Corps and CDFG typically do not exercise jurisdiction over man-made drainage
ditches, although this would have to be confirmed by representatives of both agencies.
Exhibit 4 shows riparian features near the project site
Significance Criteria
Criteria have been established in determining the significance of potential impacts on biological
resources. The CEQA Guidelines identify potentially significant environmental effects on
biological resources to include:
• a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any
special-status species;)
• a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFG or USFWS.
• a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means;
• interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or
impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites;
• conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a
creek preservation policy or ordinance.
• conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
aj Have a substantial adverse impact on a candidate, sensitive or special-status species? LS/M.
Although essential habitat for special-status species is generally absent along the proposed
alignment, there is a remote possibility that one or more species of concern could occur
within the construction zone and could be injured or killed. Construction within the Marsh
and Sand creek channels could adversely affect individuals and habitat for the western pond
turtle, California tiger salamander, and California red-legged frog in the remote instance that
they are present, unless protective measures are taken to ensure that no individuals are within
the construction zones and that any habitat is replaced or restored to pre-construction levels.
Measures to ensure avoidance of any individuals and minimization of any in-channel
disturbance should serve to mitigate any potential impacts on species of concern.
Disturbance within the creek channels would require authorization from the Corps, and at
minimum an informal consultation with the USFWS to ensure minimal impacts to any listed
City of Brentwood Page 32
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
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7
/ Proposed
Proposed Creek
Proposed ®� Piped / Inlet y ynd rE kRoaa
Creek Culverts
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Exhibit 4 — ^�
RIPARIAN FEATURES
N
CITY OF BRENTWOOD ■ Proposed Sand Creek Road
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
species. This may require preparation of detailed measures to ensure avoidance and
mitigation, if required, of any listed species believed to occur within the project area by the
USFWS. No mitigation has been required by the USFWS for past projects along the
proposed alignment for either California red-legged frog or San Joaquin kit fox (USFWS,
1998). Any mitigation requirements for the project would have to be determined during
consultation as part of the Corps permit process.
Destruction of any active swallow nests in the existing box culvert under Fairview Avenue
would be a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Possible take could be avoided by
jtiming any culvert replacement outside the nesting season, as confirmed by a qualified
biologist.
The following measures are recommended to mitigate potential impacts on special-status species
fi
to less-than-signicant levels:
Mitigation Measure 3: Proposed improvements shall be coordinated with
representatives of the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, and the Corps to ensure compliance with appropriate provisions of
state and federal Endangered Species Acts. As necessary to provide compliance
with applicable regulations, mitigation may be required to prevent inadvertent take
of listed species. Details of any required mitigation shall be refined as part of the
consultation process and shall ensure adequate protection of listed species and
prevent any inadvertent take.
Mitigation Measure 4: Preconstruction survey for burrowing owl shall be
conducted by alqualified biologist on and adjacent to the proposed alignment prior
to any grading to confirm the presence or absence of any new nesting activity along
the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way and creek banks. If a nesting pair of
burrowing owls is found, appropriate measures shall be taken to avoid destruction
of any active nests. An appropriate buffer shall be established around any active
nest based on consultation with CDFG representatives. Construction activities shall
be restricted within this zone until the qualified biologist has determined that
nesting is complete and the young have fledged. For non-nesting burrowing owls,
passive relocation methods shall be used by the qualified biologist to remove the
owls from impact areas.
Mitigation Measure 5: Replacement or modifications to the Fairview Road
crossing over Sand Creek shall be timed to avoid destruction of active swallow
nests on the underside of the structure. Proposed culvert improvements shall be
timed to avoid disturbance during the active nesting season (March 15-August 15).
A qualified biologist shall be retained to verify that young have fledged and nests
are no longer occupied prior to any disturbance during the nesting season.
Mitigation Measure 6: If construction activities are required within the Marsh or
Sand Creek channels, coffer dams shall be installed to direct perennial flows
through the construction zone(s). Each dam shall be designed to direct flows
through a temporary culvert during the construction period, and exclusionary .
City of Brentwood I Page 34
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
fencing provided within creek channels to direct the movement of amphibian and
reptile species of concern into the culvert and away from the construction zone.
The construction zone shall be isolated by the exclusionary fencing, and the area
surveyed to ensure no species of concern are present before construction is initiated,
with any individuals relocated outside the zone by a permitted biologist. All work
within the creek channel shall be supervised by the permitted biologist; and
exclusionary fencing shall remain in place during the entire construction phase.
b) Have a substantial adverse impact on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community? LS/M. Sensitive natural community types are generally absent along the
proposed alignment and no significant impacts are anticipated. Routine maintenance of the
creek channels segments where crossings are proposed has precluded establishment of
riparian habitat, and even the narrow band of freshwater marsh is of limited habitat value.
Measures required as part of Corps authorization for modifications to jurisdictional
wetlands would ensure that appropriate avoidance and replacement measures are
implemented to protect wetland habitat along the creek channels.
c) Have a substantial adverse impact on federally protected ti»etlands? LS/M. Wetland
indicators observed during the field reconnaissance were limited to the emergent freshwater
marsh vegetation along the beds of Marsh and Sand Creeks, and the narrow bands of sedge
and cattail in the ditches along the railroad right-of-way. Corps jurisdictional habitat along
creek channels extends to the estimated high water mark, somewhere below the top of bank
for both creeks. CDFG jurisdiction is limited to the bank and bed of both creeks. Any
modifications to creek dhannels will require coordination and approval from these
agencies.
The narrow bands of poorly developed freshwater marsh vegetation along the railroad
right-of-way has formed in man-made drainage ditches supported by irrigation runoff.
Although the Corps reserves the right to determine whether a particular waterbody falls
within their jurisdiction)on a case-by-case basis, ditches excavated in dry land are typically
not considered jurisdictional habitat. This would have to be confirmed through further
consultation with the Corps as part of the permit process for the project.
There is a possibility that replacement habitat would be required for the creek channel
segments affected by the project. This would require preparation of a detailed wetland
protection and replacement plan, identifying the location of any mitigation, performance
standards, and provisions for monitoring.
The following measure) are recommended to mitigate impacts on jurisdictional wetlands to
less-than-significance levels:
Mitigation Measure 7: Proposed culverts over Marsh and Sand Creeks shall be
designed with al natural creek bed below them to allow for re-establishment of
freshwater marsh habitat under the structures. Cement or rip-rapped channels, and
in-channel drop structures shall not be allowed as part of the design of
improvements. Revegetation of the creek beds will occur naturally within the
natural substrate and supplemental plantings are therefore not required.
City of Brentwood Page 35
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Mitigation Measure 8: Any construction on the bed or bank of Marsh Creek shall
be designed to minimize disturbance to areas of existing freshwater marsh
vegetation. The,conswction zone shall be clearly marked with silt fencing to
prevent accidental incursion into the creek channel outside the construction zone.
Mitigation Measure 9: Modifications to the bank and bed of Marsh and Sand
Creeks shall be coordinated with representatives of the Corps and CDFG and any
necessary permits or authorization shall be obtained as necessary. This may require
preparation of al wetland delineation and a wetland protection and replacement plan.
Project grading and construction shall not be initiated until any required
authorization is obtained from the Corps and CDFG, pursuant to Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act and Section 1601-1603 of the Fish and Game Code, respectively.
d) Interfere with movement)of native fish or wildlife species?LS/M. The proposed roadway
corridor is not expected to interfere substantially with the movement of wildlife or impede
use of any wildlife nurseries. Construction of bridge improvements would only temporarily
affect the Marsh Creek and Sand Creek corridors, and measures to protect possible dispersal
by California red-legged frog, western pond turtle and fish species would serve to minimize
potential impacts on other species associated with the creeks. Fish and wildlife would
continue to utilize the creek corridors once construction is completed.
I
e, f) Conflict with local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources or anv adopted
Habitat Conservation Plans or Natural Community Conservation Plans? NI. Proposed
roadway improvements would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting
biological resource, such as a tree preservation or creek protection ordinance, since none
have been adopted by the City of Brentwood. No impact is therefore anticipated.
Similarly, proposed improvements would not conflict with any adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan or other approved conservation
plan. No such conservation plans have been adopted encompassing the project vicinity, and
no impact is therefore)anticipated.
V. Cultural Resources
Environmental ScIdD
The General Plan EIR notes that the much of the Brentwood Planning Area has a low to
moderate sensitivity to the presence of prehistoric sites and a moderate to high sensitivity for
historic resources. The anticipated highest potential for discovering prehistoric resources is along
drainageways, including Marsh Creek and Sand Creek.
There is no record of previous archeological investigations on or adjacent to the Sand Creek
Road site.
ProJ P ect Impacts and Miti alion Measures
a) Cause substantial adverse change to significant historic resources? NI. No historic
resources have been identified on either portion of the site so no impact to historic
resources is anticipated.
City of Brentwood Page 36
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
b. c) Cause a substantial adverse impact or destruction to archeological or paleontological
resources? LS/M. There is a remote but potentially significant possibility that construction
activities near Marsh Creek and Sand Creek, including creek crossings, crossing of the
railroad tracks, construction of the roadway and/or utility trenching could disturb
subsurface archeological resources, such as lithic scatter, campsites, milling areas and
perhaps burial sites. This is based on Figure 15 of the General Plan EIR, which shows the
highest probability of encountering resources along major creek banks. Construction of
portions of the roadway extension away from-creek banks may also uncover archeological
resources.
In the event that such resources are encountered, the following mitigation is recommended
to reduce any potential impacts to archeological or paleontological impacts to a level of
insignificance.
Mitigation Measure 10. Should archeological or paleontological artifacts or
remains be discovered during construction of the project, work in the vicinity of the
find shall stop immediately until a qualified archeologist or paleontologist, as
appropriate, can evaluate the site and determine the significance of the find. Project
personnel shall not collect or alter cultural resources. Identified cultural resources
shall be recorded on forms DPR 422 (archeological sites) and/or DPR 523 (historic
resources). If human remains are found, the County Coroner shall be contacted
immediately.
d) Disturb any human resources? LS/M. A remote possibility exists that human resources
could be uncovered on the site during construction activities. Adherence to Mitigation
Measure I0 would reduce such impacts to a level of less-than-significant,.
VI. Geology and Soils
Environmental Setting
The Brentwood Planning Area is located along the northwestern margin of the San Joaquin
Valley, with Mount Diablo to the west and Suisun Bay and the Sacramento/San Joaquin River
Delta to the north. Brentwood lies on the border of two geomorphic provinces: the Coast Range
and the Great Valley Province.
Geologic conditions within the Brentwood Planning Area are dominated by consolidated
sediments along the western and southern sides of the area (low lying foothills) and by young
alluvial deposits throughout the central and eastern portions.
Surface soil conditions in the Brentwood area reflect the nature of the underlying sediments,
which are generally fine-grained in nature and comprised of clay, silt and fine-grained sand.
Granular soils are found in limited quantities along rock outcroppings in the western and
southern portions of Brentwood and in adjacent area to the north. Based on information
published by the United States Department of Agriculture (1977), most of the Brentwood area is
covered by soil described as texturally as clay and clay loam. Loamy sand and silty clay loam
exists in small quantities along stream channels and near sandstone beds in the western and
southern portions of the Brentwood Planning Area.
City of Brentwood Page 37
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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California, and the Bay area in particular, is subject to frequent seismic activity. Many of the
faults within the San Francisco Bay are north-south trending faults associated with tectonic plate
.movement, particularly the San Andreas and Hayward faults. Frequent fault activity is common
in the western portion of Contra Costa County, although less common in eastern Contra Costa
County. However, significant ground shaking and ground rupture is possible along faults within
and near Brentwood. Known regional faults include the San Andreas fault (45 miles west of
Brentwood), Hayward Fault (27 miles west), Calaveras Fault, Greenville Fault (25 miles
southeast), Concord-Green Valley Fault (15 miles west).
Three faults have been identified within the Brentwood community. The Antioch-Davis fault
traverses the western portion of the planning area, This fault extends for approximately 18 miles
in a north-south direction. This fault has been included within an Earthquake Zone under the
auspices of the Alquist-Priolo Act. The Brentwood-Sherman Island fault trends in a north-south
direction approximately 2 miles east of the Antioch-Davis fault. The Midland fault lies
approximately 2 miles east of the Brentwood Planning Area.
During a seismic event, rapid loading of saturated fine-grained soil may create excess pore
pressure which may not dissipate rapidly. This excess pressure may result in a loss of shear
strength, known as "liquefaction." Groundwater level in the Brentwood area is generally deeper
than 50 feet, which results in a low potential for liquefaction. However, locally high water tables
may exist where liquefaction could occur, typically alluvial soils and sand dune areas.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse impacts, including loss, injury
or death related to ground rupture, seismic ground shaking, ground failure, or landslides?
LS. The site is subject to ground shaking caused by a number of regional and local faults as
described above. Construction of the proposed roadway and storm drain line would subject
these new improvements to the potential for damage caused by seismic ground shaking. Of
special concern would be crossings over Sand Creek and Marsh Creek. Since there are no
local or regional faults in or near the project area, the risk of ground rupture is considered
low and considered less-than-significant. It is expected that the City of Brentwood would
incorporate the most recent and stringent seismic safety design features into both portions
of the project.
The project sites are generally flat and would not be subject to landsliding, however, unless
properly stabilized, slope failure could occur in the area of the two creek crossings. As part
of the design, appropriate slope stabilization efforts would incorporated into the project so
that potential impacts related to slope stability would be less-than-significant.
b) Is the site subject to substantial erosion the loss of topsoil? LS, The site would require
grading to construct the roadbed, underground utilities and creek crossings. The quantity of
material required for grading is unknown at this time. A potentially significant impact
would be erosion of graded material off of the project site, which could-be deposited into
Marsh Creek, Sand Creek, into nearby streets and onto nearby private properties. Potential
site erosion could alsohave a negative secondary effect of degrading surface water quality
by deposition of construction debris and other material into Marsh and Sand Creeks.
Adherence to Mitigation Measure 12 will reduce potential erosional impacts to a level of
less-than-significance.
City of Brentwood Page 38
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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C) Is the site located on soil that is unstable or result in potential lateral spreading,
liquefaction, landslide or collapse? LS. Based on information contained in the City of
Brentwood General Plan EIR, the possibility exists that liquefaction could occur within
local creeks during a seismic event. However, since the majority of project improvements
would constructed outside of creekbeds, less-than-significant impacts are anticipated with
regard to liquefaction. Since the project area is essentially flat, no impacts are anticipated
with regard to landslides
d) Is the site located on expansive soil? NI. Based on information contained in the General
Plan EIR, the possibility is remote that expansive soils exist near the project site, so no
impact would result.
e) Have soils incapable of supporting on-site septic tanks if sewers are not available? NI. The
proposed project involves construction of public works projects would not require sewer or
septic tank service.
VII. Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Environmental Setting
The General Plan EIR notes that the city has historically been surrounded by agriculture and oil
field operations. Development would encroach onto areas where hazardous materials and wastes
have been handled and dispoIsed.
Properties on and adjacent tO the proposed road extension have historically and continue to be
farmed. As such, there is a potential for residue in the soil from previous activities, such as
j pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers and similar chemicals.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a-c) Create a significant hazard through transport of hazardous materials or release or
emission of hazardous materials?LS. The proposed project would include construction of a
new roadway in the center portion of the community. Although the proposed Sand Creek
Road would not generate hazardous waste, it could be used as a transport route for
hazardous materials. Ti-ansport of hazardous materials is regulated by state and federal
agencies and is outside the jurisdiction of the City of Brentwood, Therefore, this impact
would be considered less-than-significant.
d) Is the site listed as a hazardous materials site? LS/M. Although not listed as a hazardous
materials site, portions of the project area have historically been used for agricultural
production, including fruit orchards and field crops. The possibility exists that residual
contaminants remain in the soil, which could be a potential hazard for construction workers
and others near the site. This is considered a potentially significant impact which can be
reduced to a less-than-(significant level through adherence to the following mitigation
measure:
Mitigation Measure 11: The City shall prepare a Phase I hazardous materials
report documenting the presence or absence of soil, water or building material
substances on the site. If recommended by the Phase I report, additional studies may
be required. Ail measures recommended by the report(s), regarding possible
City of Brentwood I Page 39
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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remediation of hazardous materials shall be followed, as may be specified by the
report(s).
e,f) Is the site located within an airport land use plan of a public airport or private airstrip?
NI. The project site is not located near a public or private airstrip so no impacts are
anticipated.
i
g) Interference with an emergency evacuation plan? NI. Construction of the proposed Sand
Creek Road extension would provide for an additional emergency evacuation route within
Brentwood, so no impact would result.
VIII. Hydrology and Water Quality
Environmental Settine
The project site lies in the central portion of Brentwood. Marsh Creek flows through the center
of the area. This creek is a regionally significant creek that originates in the foothills of Mt.
Diablo and flows north through the Brentwood planning area to the San Joaquin River. Several
smaller creeks flow into Marsh Creek, including Sand Creek, Dry Creek and Briones Valley
Creek.
Flooding in the Brentwood area has been primarily caused by overtopping of the banks of Marsh
Creek. J
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? LS/M. Construction
of the proposed roadway improvement would necessitate grading, excavation and
i overcovering of the soil. The amount of grading is not known at this time, however,
proposed grading is anticipated to increase the possibility of soil erosion into both Marsh
Creek and Sand Creek.�This could be a potentially significant impact. Mitigation Measure
12 will ensure that poteIntial water quality impacts are reduced to a less-than-significant
level.
Mitigation Measure 12: A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shall
be prepared in accord with City and RWQCB standards to control storm water
runoff and erosion into Marsh Creek, Sand Creek and adjacent streets and
properties. Specific measures to be included in the SWPP are listed below.
Applicable measures shall be included in contractor specifications for construction
of the proposed)project.
Leave existing vegetated areas undisturbed until construction of
improivements on each portion of the project are actually ready to
commence;
• Immediately revegetate or otherwise protect all disturbed areas from both
wind and water erosion upon completion of grading activities;
• Collect stormwater into stable drainage channels, from small drainage
basins, to prevent the buildup of large, potentially erosive stormwater
flows;
• Direct runoff away from areas disturbed by construction;
City of Brentwood Page 40
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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• Use sediment ponds or siltation basins to rap eroded soils before runoff is
discharged into on-site or off-site drainage culverts or basins;
• To the extent possible, schedule major site construction involving
excavation and earth moving during the dry season;
• Develop and implement a program for the handling, storage, use and
disposal of fuels, hazardous materials and construction debris. The
program should also include a contingency plan for accidental spills.
In addition, construction plans for the project shall be designed to ensure that permanent
bank stabilization and erosion control measures are included in final project design,
especially near proposed stormwater outfalls into adjacent creeks.
Should the project disturb 5 acres of land or more, a General Construction Permit is
required to be obtained by the City of Brentwood from the State Water Resources Control,
Board. Application for this permit must be accompanied by a SWPPP as outlined above.
In terms of long-term management to minimize water quality degradation, the City of
Brentwood would norm(ally and customarily sweep Sand Creek Road so that dust, debris
and other items could not be eroded into creeks. The City also stencils "No Dumping-
Drains to Delta" near all storm drain inlets as a part of an on-going public information
program.
b) Substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas or lowering of water table? LS.
Although currently vacant lands would be converted from pervious, agricultural land
grazing lands to paved roadway, the amount of paving would be insignificant and would
not substantially deplete groundwater recharge areas. Such impacts would therefore be
considered less-than-sign ificant.
c) Substantially alter drainage patterns, including streambed courses such that substantial
siltation or erosion would occur? LS/M. Construction of the proposed roadway would alter
local drainage pattems idue to recontouring and grading of the land within the project area.
The addition of stormwater runoff into Sand Creek and Marsh Creek would also increase
the potential for erosion into these bodies of water. Adherence to Mitigation Measure 9
would reduce potential erosion and siltation impacts to a less-than-significant level. Based
on discussions with the project civil engineer for recent land developments on adjacent
properties (SPA L in the City of Brentwood), the amount of future stormwater runoff that
could flow into nearby creeks have been included in hydrology calculations for the land
development projects, i o that less-than-significant impacts would be expected.
d) Substantially alter drainage patterns or result in flooding, either on or off the project site?
LS. Construction of the proposed Sand Creek Road extension would change local drainage
i patterns. Existing natural swales and other surface drainage flows would be altered due to
anticipated grading for,the roadway. Drainage would be routed through newly constructed
underground pipes, culverts and similar facilities for ultimate discharge into Sand Creek
and Marsh Creek. The amount of increased storm drain runoff from the proposed roadway
has been estimated as part of recent hydrologic studies for abutting subdivisions.
Construction of the proposed roadway is not anticipated to result in any type of flooding on
or near the site. This would be considered a less-than-significant impact.
City of Brentwood Page 41
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
I
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e) Create stormwater runoff that would exceed the capacity of drainage systems or add
substantial amounts of polluted runoff? LS. Construction of the proposed improvements,
would add paved, impervious surfaces to an area where none currently exist. A portion of
the amount of increased stormwater runoff from the site has been included in recent
hydrologic calculations for abutting subdivisions (Lyon Place and Ashton Grove).
According to County Flood Control District officials, the remaining amount of increased
stormwater runoff could be accommodated in both Sand Creek and Marsh Creek, so that
less-than-significant impacts would occur. Adherence to Mitigation Measure 9 would
reduce potential stormwater pollution to a less-than-significant level.
f) Substantially degrade water quality?LS/M. Refer to the analysis and mitigation measure
under "a," above.
i
g-i) Place housing within a 700-year flood hazard area as mapped by a Flood Insurance Rate
Map or redirect flood water flows, including darn failure? NI. The proposed project does
not involve housing, so there would be no impacts related to increasing flood hazard
potential for new housing.
j) Result in inundation by seiche, tsunami or mudflows? NI. The site is not located near a
major body of water that could result in a seiche. The risk of potential mudflow is
considered low based on the generally flat topography of the surrounding area. Therefore,
no impacts are anticipated with regard to seiche or mudflow incidents.
IX. Land Use and Planning
i
Environmental Setting
The Sand Creek Road portion of the project area is currently vacant and has historically been
iused for agriculture and/or cattle grazing. Two single family detached subdivisions have been
approved by the City of Brentwood east of Minnesota near the proposed roadway and are
currently under construction. Ashton Place, developed by Pulte Homes contains approximately
113 dwellings and is sited immediately north of the proposed roadway. Immediately south of the
proposed road extension, Lyon Grove contains approximately 122 dwellings at full build out.
Lyon Homes is the builder of this subdivision. Other land uses in the vicinity of the proposed
roadway includes an elevated Union Pacific railroad line that bisects the proposed roadway
alignment. A number of older single family dwellings have been constructed north of proposed
road alignment and east of the railroad tracks.
The majority of land adjacent to the project site lies within the incorporated boundary of the City
of Brentwood, with the remainder of the area within the unincorporated portion of Contra Costa
County, although within the sphere of influence of Brentwood. Annexation to the City of
Brentwood is anticipated in the near future, although annexation is not a part of this project.
I
Exhibits 5 and 6 show existing General Plan and zoning designations near the project.
City of Brentwood Page 42
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Exhibit 5
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATIONS
SPA Special Planning Areas
Residential
RE Ranchette Estate
- VL Very Law Density
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M Medium Density
H High Density
Industrial/Commercial/Office
LI Light Industrial
NC Neighborhood Commercial
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CITY OF BRENTWOOD
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION ■ ■ ■ ■ Proposed Sand Creek Road
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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SOURCECity of Brentwood Zoning Map(undated)
Contra Costa County Zoning Map(un idated)
NOTE: Shaded portions of Exhibit depict uninco+I rporated properties.
County Zoning:
A-2 General Agricultural
R-40 Residential Exhibit 6
R-100 Residential
ZONING DESIGNATIONS
COB Commercial
_ COR Commercial
C-2 Commercial
R-1 Residential
R-1.10 Residential
R-1-E Residential
R-2 Residential
RE Ranchette Estate
PD-2 Planned Development
PD4 Planned Development
PD-6 Planned Development
PD-9 Planned Development
N PD-10 Planned Development
PD-26 Planned Development
CITY OF BRENTWOOD
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION ■ ■ ■ ■ Proposed Sand Creek Road
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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1 ,
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures.
a) Physically divide an established community? NI. The proposed roadway would generally
parallel Marsh Creek, which presently serves as an east-west barrier in the Central portion of
Brentwood. Construction of the proposed road would serve to improve circulation and access
in this portion of Brentwood, so no impacts would result with regard to dividing the
community. Similarly, construction of the proposed storm drain facility would be in an
underground location,so that there would be no impact.
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation? NI. The proposed extension
of Sand Creek Road is included in the City's Circulation Element as an arterial roadway.
Public works projects, such as the proposed roadway extension and the storm drain facility,
are not regulated by.the City's zoning ordinance. Both projects are included, however, in the
City's Five-Year Capital Improvement Program: Therefore, no impacts are anticipated with
regard to land use plans.
c) Conflict with any habitat conservation plan? NI. The site is not located within a habitat
conservation plan area so no impact would occur.
X. Mineral Resources
Environmental Settine
The Brentwood General Plan identifies four major sources of minerals in the community: oil,
gas. sand and coal. None are believed to be found within the project area, based on Figure 9 of
the Brentwood General Plan EIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a, b) Result In the loss of availability of regionally or locally significant mineral resources?
NI. The Brentwood General Plan does not indicate that the project site is underlain by
mineral resources of local or regional significance.
XI. Noise
(Note: This section has been prepared based on a acoustical report for the proposed project
prepared by Charles Salter Associates in November 1999. A copy of this report is on file with the
Brentwood Engineering Department.)
Environmental Settine
Existing noise sources within and near the project site was measured in late summer, 1999 via
24-hour noise measurements conducted west of existing single family dwellings along
Minnesota Avenue. At this location, approximately 45 feet west of the roadway centerline, noise
was measured at 65 dB (decibels).
Existing land uses near the project site include scattered single family residences on the east side
of Fairview Avenue near Sand Creek, a single family residence on the east side of Minnesota
Avenue near the proposed road right-of-way, two single family residential subdivisions on both
the north and south side of the proposed right of way of Sand Creek Road and scattered single
City of Brentwood I Page 45
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
I
family residences north of the proposed road right-of-way and east of the Union Pacific railroad
tracks. J
Primary generators of noise include vehicular traffic from Minnesota Avenue and construction
noise from nearby single family subdivisions.
Another 24-hour noise measurement was taken approximately 250 east of Fairview Avenue. The
Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL) was 52 dB in this location, representative of the general
existing noise environment in [he vicinity of the project. The DNL measurement has been
established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to describe noise events over a 24-
hour period. Penalties are applied to noise occurring during nighttime hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.).
The penalty is intended to account for increased sensitivity of people during normal sleeping
hours.
The Noise Element of the Brentwood General Plan requires that noise sources generated by
transportation sources, such as roads, should be mitigated to a noise level of 60 decibels using
the DNL (Day-Night Noise Level) measurement system for outdoor activity areas. Typically
these are back yard areas. Where it is not possible to achieve a noise level of 60 dB, an exterior
noise limit of 65 dB DNL may be allowed so long as interior noise measurements are in
compliance with standards.
The applicable indoor noise standard for the project included in the Brentwood Noise Element
for transportation noise sources is 45 dB DNL.
The acoustic consultant also recommends another applicable noise guideline which is used by
i the California Department of Transportation to assess increases in noise level. A noise increase
would be considered substantial when the predicted noise level would exceed existing noise
levels by 12 dB.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a, c-d) Would the project expose persons or generation of noise levels in excess of standards
established by the General Plan or other applicable standard: LS/M. Two types of noise
have been identified which could be associated with the proposed roadway extension: short-
term temporary noise caused by construction of roadway improvements and the proposed
storm drain facility and long-term permanent noise associated with vehicles traveling on the
new roadway.
Short term noise
Short-term noise would be generated by grading and excavation activities for both projects,
including clearing and grubbing of the site, leveling and compaction of the soil. Backhoes
would likely be employed to trench for the storm drain line. Roadway construction would
include installation of concrete for curb and gutters and asphalt concrete for the roadbed.
Each of these portions of the construction phase of the project would require bulldozers,
concrete trucks, dump trucks and other types of heavy equipment normally and customarily
employed for this type if a project.
Use of heavy equipment would likely increase noise in the short term, during the
construction phase of the project. This would be considered a significant impact on existing
single family residences near the proposed roadway site. The following mitigation measure
is therefore proposed tolreduce short-term construction noise to a less-than-significant level.
City of Brentwood I Page 46
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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Mitigation Measure,13: Construction specifications for the Sand Creek Road
extension shall include language to limit construction activities (including maintenance
of equipment, equipment warm up and delivery of material) shall occur between the
hours of 7 a.m, to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, excluding state and federal
holidays. Exceptions may be granted in writing by the Brentwood City Engineer.
Long-term noise
Future noise levels for autos and trucks using the proposed Sand Creek Road extension were
estimated usinga version of the Federal Highway Administration's Traffic Noise Prediction
Model and incorporating,the California Vehicle Noise Emission Level curves.
Table 2, below, summarizes and compares existing noise levels and anticipated future noise
levels should the project be constructed. Noise projections are expressed.in DNL format.
Table 2. Existing and Future Noise Exposure Levels
Roadway ( Link DNL (dB), 50' from Centerline
Existing Future (2010)
Sand Creek Rd Fairview to Minnesota 52 71
j Minnesota to O'Hara 52 71
East�of O'Hara 52 68 _ J
Fairview Ave. North of Sand Creek 711 65
South of Sand Creek 71 68
i
Minnesota Ave. North of Sand Creek 59 60
South of Sand Creek j 59 64
Source: Salter Associates, 1999
The noise level for existing single family dwellings lying north of the Union Pacific
Railroad tracks and Marsh Creek would be expected to increase from 52 decibels to
approximately 64 decibels based on additional vehicular traffic. For the few homes located
near the southeast corner of Minnesota Avenue and the roadway extension, ambient noise
levels could be expected) t increase from approximately 59 dB to 69 dB in the future.
Two single family subdivisions (Ashton Place and Lyon Groves) are currently under
construction east of Minnesota Avenue. Some homes within these developments have been
completed. Homes within these developments would be located approximately 70 feet from
the centerline of the proposed roadway. In the year 2010, future noise from the roadway is
anticipated to reach DNL 69 dB. As part of the construction of each of the subdivisions, six-
foot masonry noise barrier walls have been constructed along both the north and south sides
of the proposed right-of way of Sand Creek Road. Construction of dwellings near the
proposed right-of-way have also been designed to meet the City's interior noise level. The
acoustic barrier constructed along the south side of the future roadway has been extended to
run along the northerly property line of the existing single family residence lying on the east
side of Minnesota Avenue and south of the proposed roadway.
A single family dwelling on the east side of Fairview Avenue south of the proposed
roadway right-of-way would also be exposed to future noise levels for the roadway in
excess of City standardls.
City of Brentwood Page 47
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
The above impacts would be considered significant long-term noise impacts based on future
traffic volumes on the proposed Sand Creek Road.
The following mitigation measure is recommended to reduce impacts of-term noise levels
for the Sand Creek Road extension to a level of less-than-significance:
Mitigation Measure 14. The following noise reduction measures shall be carried out by
the City of Brentwood.+
(i) For the single family dwelling located on the east side of Fairview Avenue
south of the proposed road right-of-way, a five to seven foot tall noise barrier
fence shall Ibe constructed between the primary use are and the proposed
roadway extension. If wood is used as the construction material, it should be
constructed free of cracks and gaps and boards should overlap to cover seams.
(ii) The outdoor activity areas for homes located on the north side of the proposed
road right-of-way and east of the railroad tracks shall be protected by noise
barriers oflat least six feet tall. If wood is used as the construction material,
the same conditions as (i) apply.
(iii) For the existing residences located at the intersection of Minnesota Avenue
and the proposed roadway extension, replacement sound-rated windows may
be required to achieve the City's indoor noise standard of DNL 45 dB. The
only windows that may require replacement would be those having direct line
of sight tolthe travel lanes of the proposed road.
(iv) Additional analysis for each of these areas is recommended by the acoustic
engineer during construction of the propose road, once final grades are
established. This will allow for final review of acoustic impacts and specific
construction to fully mitigate noise to City standards.
Exhibit 7 shows the location of required noise barriers.
b) Exposure of people to excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?
LS/M. Construction ofthe proposed roadway extension may expose nearby residents to
groundborne vibration relating to grading, excavation and construction activities. These
impacts could be considered significant, given that large equipment would be required for
the project, and would be significant. However, such impacts would also be short-term in
nature, lasting only as long as the construction phase of the project. Adherence to
Mitigation Measure 131, which would limit hours of construction, would also reduce
groundborne impacts to a level of less-than-significance.
e,f) Would the project expose residents to excessive noise generated by a public or private
airport? NI. The project site is not located near any a public or private airport so that the
proposed project would not be subject to excessive airport noise.
City of Brentwood Page 48
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
I
I Iy fes:
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_ Proposed
Noise —
1 7 i ��� � Barrier � � � . � and reek Aoaa
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Proposed -t Barriers
Noise
Barrier °7d
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Exhibit 7
NOISE BARRIER
LOCATIONS
•••••••••• Proposed Noise Barriers
N Existing Sound Barriers
CITY OF BRENTWOOD
SAND CREEK ROAD EXTENSION 1 ■ J• ■ Proposed Sand Creek Road
NEGATIVE DECLARATION j
XII. Population and Housing
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly or indirectly? LS.
Construction of the proposed project would not directly add new population to the central
portion of Brentwood, since the project does not involves residential development.
Construction of the proposed Sand Creek road extension could indirectly induce additional
population growth, however, residential development is presently occurring in this portion
of Brentwood in the absence of the proposed roadway. Completion of the road was
assumed as part of land use, transportation and population growth projections for the City
of Brentwood as part of the General Plan. Therefore, less-than-significant impacts are
anticipated with regard to potential growth inducement.
b,c) Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing housing units or people? NI.
The site is presently vacant. Implementation of the proposed project would therefore
displace neither housing units or people.
XIII. Public Services
Environmental Setting
• Fire Protection. Fire protection is provided to the area by the East Diablo Fire
Protection District, which provides structural fire suppression and rescue services
from four stations and an administrative headquarters facility located within or
immediately adjacent to the Planning Area. The District maintains mutual aid
! agreements with all other fire departments within the County.
• Police Protection.]Police protection is provided by the Brentwood Police Department
which is headquartered at 500 Chestnut Street near the Civic Center. The Department
maintains a staff 'of
f 27.5 sworn officers, support and reserve officers:
• Schools. Educational facilities are provided by the Brentwood Union School District
which operates kindergarten through eighth grade school services within the
community and the Liberty Union High School District.
• Maintenance. The City of Brentwood provides public facility maintenance, including
roads, parks, strelet trees and other public facilities.
Environmental Impacts andlMitigation Measures
a, b) Fir and police protection? LS. Construction of the proposed project would not directly
increase demand for fire and emergency services since residential construction is not
proposed as part of the project. Although extension of the proposed roadway could
indirectly induce population growth in the vicinity of the project, completion of the road
extension would also facilitate access to the area by emergency service and maintenance
vehicles. Therefore, less-than-significant impacts are anticipated.
c) Schools? LS. Construlction of the project would not directly increase demand for school
facilities since residential construction is not proposed. Although new residential
development could occur based on increased access to the central portion of Brentwood,
City of Brentwood I Page 50
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
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each new residential dwelling is required to pay mitigation fees to the school district to off-
set potential educational impacts. Such impacts would therefore be less-than-significant.
d) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? NI. The project, if approved, would
incrementally increase the long-term maintenance demand for public facilities. However,
the facility would be constructed to City standards and fully inspected during the
construction phase. Therefore, the need for increased maintenance would not occur in the
short- or mid-term, but would be a long-term issue with the City. No impacts are therefore
anticipated.
XIV. Recreation
Environmental Setting
The site currently vacant and generally contains no recreational facilities.A multi-purpose
recreational trail has been constructed along the south side of Marsh Creek in the eastem portion
of the project area by the East Bay Regional Parks District. The City of Brentwood has planned a
park and recreational trail system on the east side of Fairview Road.
Project Impacts and Mitieatio I Measures
a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks? NI. The
proposed development would not directly cause an increase in demand for regional park
facilities, since no residential development is proposed. Although indirect construction of
new residential development could occur, the potential for increased residential
development would be o'ff-set by park in-lieu fees charged by the City to new residential
development to acquire and develop new parks in Brentwood. No impacts are therefore
anticipated.
b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction of recreational
facilities? LSIM. The project does not include recreational facilities, however, short-term
and potentially significant impacts to the existing East Bay Regional Parks District
recreational trail on the south side of Marsh Creek are anticipated due to the proposed
construction of a storm drain outfall structure into Marsh Creek. Construction of the outfall
could result in removal of the existing asphalt trail for storm drain line trenching and
disruption of the right-of-way for trail users. The following mitigation measure is therefore
recommended to reduce this impact to a less-than-significant impact.
Mitigation Measure 15. The City of Brentwood shall ensure that:
(i) Following cl nstruction of drainage improvements, all East Bay Regional Parks
District trail facilities are replaced to match pre-construction conditions;
(ii) A detour around construction areas shall be provided for trail users; and
(iii) All necessaiy encroachment permits shall be obtained from the East Bay
Regional Parks District.
City of Brentwood Page 51
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
XV. Transportation/Traffic
Environmental Setting
(The following section represents a summary of a circulation analysis of the proposed project
completed by George Nickelson , traffic and transportation consultant. The full text of the
analysis is on file in the Brentwood Public Works Department.)
Streets that provide access in and around the study area include:
• Brentwood Boulevard (SR4), a north-south arterial roadway east of the site;
• Minnesota Avenue, a north-south arterial road through the central portion of the project
site;
• Fairview Avenue a north-south arterial which forms the westerly extent of the roadway
extension;
• O'Hara Avenue/Walnut Boulevard is a partially existing north/south roadway providing
access through the central portion of Brentwood. South of the proposed Sand Creek Road
extension, Walnut Boulevard contains a mix of two and four lanes. North of the proposed
Sand Creek Road extension O'Hara Avenue is a proposed roadway. The City has recently
completed the Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Avenue Loop east of the project area.
West of the project site, the new State Route 4 Bypass is currently under construction, slated for
completion from Lone Tree Way to Sand Creek Road in late 2000. This project includes
construction of Sand Creek Road from the Bypass east to approximately Fairview Avenue to link
with the roadway segment being analyzed as part of this project
Regional access to and from the site is provided by State Route 4, linking Brentwood with
Antioch, Pittsburg and Interstate 80 to the west. Vasco Road provides access to the south, to
Livermore and Interstate 5W
Should the proposed roadway extension not be undertaken, additional traffic would be diverted
to Central Boulevard and Dainty Avenue during the p.m. period. The combined volumes on both
1 roads are expected to be approximately 600 vehicles during the p.m. peak hour in the year 2010.
The 800 p.m. peak hour vehicles diverted from Sand Creek would significantly impact traffic
flows on both Central Boulevard and Dainty Avenue. Peak hour volumes on Central Avenue
would more than double, resulting in potential congestion problems along both roadways. The
intersections along both roads (particularly the stop sign controlled intersections of
Central/Dainty, Central Griffith, Central O'Hara and Second/Second) could be impacted. The
Central Avenue/O'Hara Avenue is planned to have a four-way stop sign in the future.
The extension of Sand Creek Road is shown as an integral part of the City's circulation system in
the Circulation Element of the General Plan and has also been included within the City's Capital
iImprovement Program. 1
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial to existing traffic load and street capacity?
LS/M. Future baselinelconditionswere determined for the project area, which includes
traffic demand that would be expected should the Sand Creek Road extension be completed
as proposed. It is assumed that in the absence of a final roadway link between Fairview
Avenue and Brentwood Boulevard,much of the traffic on Sand Creek Road would be
City of Brentwood Page 52
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
forced to divert to Central Boulevard and Dainty Avenue to access an alternative route to
Brentwood Boulevard. A portion of the Sand Creek Road traffic could also use Lone Tree,
Way to the north as an alternative east-west route.
The Sand Creek Road connection between the SR4 Bypass and Fairview Avenue is
expected to attract approximately 1,000 a.m. peak hour vehicles and 1,300 p.m. peak hour
vehicles. Of the 1,300 p.m. vehicles, 800 vehicles are expected to and from the east on the
extension of Sand Creek!Road east of Fairview Avenue. Because the projected p.m. peak
hour traffic is substantially higher than the morning peak hour traffic, the traffic analysis
has focused on the p.m. condition as a worst case condition.
The proposed extension Iof Sand Creek Road has been evaluated in terms of general traffic
flow conditions along the corridor and specific traffic flow conditions at the following
intersections:
• Sand Creek Road/Fairview Avenue
• Sand Creek Road/Minnesota Avenue
Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Avenue
• Sand Creek Road/Brentwood Boulevard
Projected p.m. peak ho Ir traffic flows in the year 2010 are expected to be between 1,000
and 1,100 on the proposed Sand Creek Road extension between Fairview Avenue and the
proposed extension of the O'Hara Road connector east of the Union Pacific railroad tracks.
Between the proposed O'Hara Avenue connection and Brentwood Boulevard the p.m. peak
hour traffic is anticipated to be approximately 450 vehicles. These volumes would be
within the capacity of a two-lane roadway as proposed by the City. It is assumed that Sand
Creek Road would be widened at intersections to accommodate turning movements.
The projected p.m. peak hour volumes at the four study intersections have been derived
from the Eastern Contra Costa County traffic model and are as follows.
At a signalized intersection, LOS is determined by calculating the volume of conflicting
turning movements the intersection during a one-hour period, and dividing that total by the
design capacity to accommodate those movements. This calculation yields a
volume/capacity (v/c) ratio. The resulting v/c ratio corresponds to LOS ratings, which
range from LOS "A" to "F". The range from "A" to "F" describes increasing levels of
traffic demand, and corresponding increases in vehicle delay and deterioration of service.
(Please see Appendices for LOS definitions and calculation sheets).
LOS "A" represents free-flaw conditions with little or no delay at intersections. LOS "E"
represents unstable flow conditions with volumes at or near design capacity. Vehicles are
likely to experience major delays (40 to 60 seconds) crossing an intersection. Under LOS
"E", minor incidents may lead to forced flow or jammed conditions. LOS "F" represents a
"jammed" condition where traffic flows exceed design capacity, resulting in long queues
backing up from all approaches to the intersection.
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Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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• Sand Creek Road/Fairview Avenue LOS "A," 0.50
• Sand Creek Road/Minnesota Avenue LOS "D," LOS "$"*
Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Avenue (future) LOS "F," LOS "A"*
Sand Creek Roa"rentwood Boulevard LOS "A"' 0.23
Note: LOS designations refer to outbound traffic for side streets, in-bound left turns
for major streets I
Based on the above projections, there would be generally free flowing traffic along the
proposed roadway extension with minimal delays. However, at the Sand Creek
Road/Minnesota Avenue and the Sand Creek Road/O'Hara Avenue intersections, there
would be substantial delays for traffic entering Sand Creek road from side streets. In
particular, the O'Hara Avenue approaches would experience long delays typical of LOS
"F." This would be a significant impact. With the installation of a traffic signal at both
intersections, the LOS would improve to level 'A," with minimal delays.
Consideration has also been given to potential impacts at the intersection of the O'Hara
Avenue connector with Central Boulevard, south of Sand Creek Road Although
intersection traffic impacts cannot readily be derived from the East County traffic model,
overall projections suggest that a portion of the eastbound Sand Creek Road traffic would
use the O'Hara connector to access downtown Brentwood. The expected volumes are such
that, with the planned four-way stop sign controls, this intersection would experience
congested operations. this could be a potentially significant impact, although traffic
projections for this intersection are tenuous based on the extrapolation from regional traffic
model information
Another potential traffic impact would be future intersection baseline conditions at the
Fairview Road/Sand Creek Road intersection. Although the future baseline intersection
LOS has been estimated as "A," the heavy eastbound right-turn movements and northbound
left-turn movements could result in queuing problems during peak hour conditions. This
j impact could be significant.
Indirect impacts of the Iproposed roadway extension would include additional traffic
diverted to Central Boulevard and Dainty Avenue during the p.m. period, The combined
volumes on both roads are expected to be approximately 600 vehicles during the p.m. peak
hour in the year 2010.+The 800 p.m. peak hour vehicles diverted from Sand Creek would
significantly impact traffic flows on both Central Boulevard and Dainty Avenue. Peak hour
volumes on Central Avenue would more than double, resulting in potential congestion
problems along both roadways. The intersections along both roads (particularly the stop
sign controlled intersections of Central/Dainty, Central Griffith, Central O'Hara and
Second/Second) could be impacted. The Central Avenue/O'Hara Avenue is planned to have
a four-way stop sign in the future.
The following mitigation measure is recommended to reduce future traffic impacts to a
less-than-significant level:
City of Brentwood Page 54
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
1
Mitigation Measure 16. The following traffic and transportation measures shall be
carried out by the City, of Brentwood.
(i) Provide two-way stop sign controls at the Sand Creek Road/Minnesota Avenue.
Monitor this intersection for warrants to install a traffic signal.
(ii) Consider adding a traffic signal at the O'Hara Avenue/Central Boulevard
intersection.
b) Exceed, either individ I ally or cumulatively, a LOS standard established by the County
CMA for designated roads)?NI. The proposed extension of Sand Creek Road is not
designated as a route of regional significance by the Contra Costa County Congestion
I Management Agency.
c) Change in traffic patterns? LS. The proposed extension of Sand Creek Road would change
local and sub-regionalJtraffic patterns by providing an new route through the central portion
of Brentwood. The extension of Sand Creek Road has been included in the Circulation
Element of the City's General Plan and is anticipated to have a less-than-significant impact
d) Substantially increase+hazards due to a design feature or incompatible use? LS. The
proposed extension ofISand Creek Road would be designed to comply with minimum City
engineering design crrtea, including gradients, turning radii, sight line criteria and other
requirements, so that anny potential hazards would be reduced to a less-than-significant
level.
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? NI. Construction of the proposed Sand Creek
Road extension would serve to improve local and sub-regional emergency access in the
central portion of Brentwood. No impacts are therefore anticipated.
f) Inadequate parking capacity?? NI. Since neither portion of the project would result in
constructing space that could be occupied by people, so that no parking would be required
and no impacts are an with regard to parking capacity.
g) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists?LS. Construction of the proposed Sand
Creek Road extension would provide additional routes in the community for both bicyclists
and pedestrians. For the initial stage of roadway construction, no sidewalks would be
constructed, however, traffic volumes are anticipated to be sufficiently low so that hazards
for pedestrians would not be created. For the ultimate design of Sand Creek Road,
sidewalks would be constructed along both sides of the road. In sum, less-than-significant
impacts are anticipat I led with regard to bicycle or pedestrian traffic..
No impacts are anticipated with regard to the proposed storm drain facility, since this will
be a below-grade facility.
XVI. Utilities and Servicl Systems
Environmental Settine
The project site is served Uy the following service providers:
City of Brentwood I Page 55
initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
i
Electrical and natural gas power: Pacific Gas and Electric Co.
Communicati Ins: Pacific Bell and TCI Cable
Water supply and sewage treatment: City of Brentwood
• Storm drainage: City of Brentwood and Contra Costa County Flood Control
District
Solid waste disposal: City of Brentwood
Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
j a, e) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the RWQCB? NI. The proposed project
would not generate any wastewater flows to the regional wastewater plant, so no impact
would result.
b, d) Require new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities?
LSI. The proposed project would not require new sources of water or cause the expansion
of the City's wastewater treatment plant since it involves a roadway extension and upgraded
storm drain facility. However, extension of City water and sewer lines would occur within
the Sand Creek Road right-of-way , however, these facilities are included within the City's
utility master plans and less-than-significant impacts are anticipated.
c) Require new storm drainage facilities?LS. The project includes construction of new storm
drain inlets into adjacent creeks-one into Sand Creek and one in Marsh Creek. The amount
of additional stormwater entering the creek system has been accounted for by the City of
Brentwood and Contra Costa County Flood Control District and is considered less-than-
signlficant..
f, g) Solid waste disposal? LS. The proposed project would incrementally increase generation of
solid waste, primarily!during the construction phase. This amount of solid waste is
unknown, but is anticipated to be less-than-significant. Over the long term, the project
should have no impact to the generation of solid waste, since the project itself would not be
occupied by people or have any aspect that would generate solid waste material.
I
XV. Mandatory Findings of Significance
a) Does the project have)the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop
below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the
number of or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? No. The
preceding analysis indicates that the proposed project will not have a significant adverse
impact on overall environmental quality, including biological resources, traffic,
recreational facilities noise or cultural resources with the implementation of mitigation
measures recommended in the Initial Study.
City of Brentwood + Page 56
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable?
("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are
considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects,the effects of
other current projects acid the effects of probable future projects). No; although incremental
increases in certain areas can be expected as a result of constructing this project, including
additional traffic, air emissions, light and glare, the project has been included as a pan of
the City's General PIan and the long-term cumulative impacts were previously addressed in
the City's General Plan EIR, certifies in 1993.
c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly? No. No such impacts have been discovered in
j the course of preparing this Initial Study.
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City of Brentwood Page
initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 200000
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Initial Study Preparers
Jerry Haag,project manager and principal author
George Nickelson, traffic impacts
Michael Toy, CharleslSalter Associates, acoustics
James Martin, biological resources
Andrew.Leahy, hydrology and water quality
Jane Maxwell, graphics
Agencies and Organizations Consulted
g
The following agencies and Organizations were contacted in the course of this Initial Study:
City of Brentwood
John Stevenson, P.E., City Engineer
Stephanie Gronlund� P.E., Project Manager (Sand Creek Road)
Lynne Filson, P.E. Assistant City Engineer/Traffic Engineer
Jeff Zilm, AssociatelPlanner
Contra Costa County Flood Control District
Neil Leary, Flood Control Engineer
Sacramento Regional Water Quality Control Board
Greg Vaughn
California Department of Fish and Game
John Waithman, Environmental Specialist
U.S. ArmY Corps of Engineers
Nancy Haley, EnviILrimental Specialist
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Sheila Larsen
References
City of Brentwood,, 1993, General Plan,
City of Brentwood! 1993, General Plan EIR.
California Burrowing Owl Consortium, 1993, Burrowing Owl Survey Protocol and
Mitigation Gui i elines.
City of Brentwood I Page 58
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
California Department of Fish and Game, 1990, Survey Methodologies for San Joaquin
Kit Fox and Other Species.
California Department of Fish and Game, 1999, Natural Diversity Data Base, Special
Animals.
California Department of Fish and Game, 1999, Natural Diversity Data Base, Special
Plants.
California Native Plant Society, 1994, Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular
Plants of California, Special Publication No. 1 (5th Edition).
California Native Plant Society, 1988, Terrestrial Vegetation of California.
Sawyer, John O. and Todd Keeler-Wolf, 1995, A Manual of California Vegetation,
California Native Plant Society.
Hall, E.R., 1981, The Mammals of North America, University of California Press,
Berkeley.
Holland, Robert, Natural Diversity Data Base, 1986, Preliminary Descriptions of the
Terrestrial Natural Communities of California.
Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc., 1990, Los Vaqueros, Draft Environmental Impact
Report, Vasco Road and Utility Relocation Project, prepared for Contra Costa Water
District, February.
Morrell, S.H., 1972, Life History of the San Joaquin Kit Fox, California Fish and Game
Journal 58(3): 1621-174.
Morrell, S.H., 1975, San Joaquin Kit Fox Distribution and Abundance in 1975,
Administrative Report 75-3, California Department of Fish and Game, Wildlife
Management Branch.
Munz, P. and D. Keck, 1973, A California Flora and Supplement, Combined Edition,
Berkeley: University of California Press.
Orloff, S., L. Spiegel and.F. Hall, 1986, Distribution and Habitat Requirements of the
San Joaquin kit fox in the Northern Extreme of its Range, Western Section Wildlife
Society (CAL-NEV) Conference Transactions 22:60-70,
Peterson, R.T., 1969, Field Guide to Western Birds.
Stebbins, R.C., 1985,A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1989, Standardized Recommendations for Protection of
the San Joaquin Kit Fox, April.
U.S. Fish and Wildlilfe Service, 1990, San Joaquin Kit Fox Range Map.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1997, San Joaquin Kit For Survey Protocol for the
Northern Range.
City of Brentwood Page 59
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension April 2000
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1998, Spa-L Project Site, Contra Costa County, Refer
#1-1-98-TA-1192, 1 I etter to Geoff Monk, dated 26 .Tune.
City of Brentwood ( Page 60
April 2000
Initial Study/Sand Creek Road Extension
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