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Resolutions 17-7094 to 17-7095
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 '7R RESOLUTION NO 17-7094 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT ("EIR"), ADOPTING A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM, AND ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS FOR PLAN HERMOSA, THE INTEGRATED GENERAL PLAN AND COASTAL LAND USE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. In July 2013, the City of Hermosa Beach initiated a comprehensive update to the General Plan, including integration of the City's Coastal Land Use Plan. This update includes comprehensive revisions to all previous elements of the General Plan, with the exception of the Housing Element, which was certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development on October 18, 2013. The three -and -a -half year update process has resulted in the preparation of PLAN Hermosa, which includes General Plan Elements on Governance, Land Use + Design, Mobility, Sustainability + Conservation, Parks + Open Space, Public Safety, and Infrastructure.. PLAN Hermosa also covers California Coastal Act topics of Public Access, Recreation + Visitor Serving Facilities, Water Quality Protection, Environmentally Sensitive Habitats + Natural Resources, Planning + Development, Archaeological + Cultural Resources, Scenic + Visual Resources, Coastal Hazards, Shoreline Erosion + Protective Devices, and Energy + Industrial Development. SECTION 2. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), the City, acting as Lead Agency, circulated a Notice of Preparation ("NOP") for the project on August 7, 2015, beginning a 30 -day review period. As part of the Environmental Impact Report (`BIR") scoping process, the City held a public scoping meeting at the Planning Commission meeting on August 18, 2015, in the Hermosa Beach City Council Chambers. The NOP and letters received in response to the NOP from both public agencies and members of the public are included in Appendix B of the Draft EIR. The Draft EIR was circulated for a 72 -day review period beginning October 26, Page 1 of 5 • 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 • 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 7R 2016 and ending on January • 5, 2017. As part of the Draft EIR review process, the Planning Commission held a special meeting on November 21, 2016 to take public comment on the Draft EIR. The Final EIR was made public on February 9, 2017. Revisions to the Final EIR have been made based on Planning Commission and City Council review and changes to PLAN Hermosa. All required notifications were provided pursuant to CEQA (Public Resources Code Section 21092.5) and all comment letters were incorporated into the Final EIR. SECTION 3. In accordance with Senate Bill 18 (SB 18) and Government Code 69352.3, and Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) and Government Code 21000, the City of Hermosa Beach requested a list of Tribal Organization contacts from the Native American Heritage Commission in April 2014. The City of Hermosa Beach sent notifications to the appropriate tribal organizations in January 2015 in compliance with SB 18, and again in August 2015 to comply with AB 52. The City has complied with the requirements for tribal consultation and the findings of consultation process can be found in Attachment D to this resolution. SECTION 4. The Planning Commission, Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission held public meetings to review the 2015 Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa between January 2016 and June 2016, and have recommended modifications to the document. The Planning Commission further held Public Hearings on February 22, 23, and 27; and March 13, 21, and 27, 2017 to review and identify additional recommended changes to PLAN Hermosa, based on previous input from the Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission, and public and commissioner testimony provided during the public hearings. The changes to PLAN Hermosa that the Planning Commission recommended to the City Council, were incorporated into the Planning Commission Recommended Draft prepared in March 2017 and reviewed by the City Council. Notice of the public hearing before the Planning Commission on the PLAN Hermosa and FEIR was advertised in The Easy Reader Newspaper on February 16, 2017, and re -advertised in the Easy Reader on March 16, 2017. Notifications of the Public Hearing was also shared with the local press and was also distributed via the City's eNotify, Nixle and Nextdoor communication systems to the Hermosa Beach community. Page 2 of 5 • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 • 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 ?R SECTION 5. The proposed changes to the project largely clarify and define policy language without changing the intent of the PLAN's goals and objectives. Pursuant to Section 15088.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the changes would not result in any new significant environmental impacts nor substantially increase the severity of significant impacts described in the EIR and a recirculation of the EIR is not necessary. The EIR is not changed in a way that deprives the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment upon a substantial adverse environmental effect of the project because the impact conclusions have not changed. The EIR is also not changed in a way that deprives the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment upon a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect that will not be implemented, as all feasible mitigation and a reasonable range of alternatives were discussed in the EIR and during the extensive public hearing process. There are no new or substantially increased impacts that were not previously identified in the EIR. As explained further in Attachment D, Hermosa Beach Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Recommending the adoption of PLAN Hermosa, none of the conditions set forth in CEQA requiring recirculation of a Draft EIR have been met. SECTION 6. The City of Hermosa Beach prepared the PLAN Hermosa Program EIR (State Clearinghouse #2015081009) in its capacity as lead agency under CEQA and in compliance with CEQA. The Final EIR, provided as Attachments A through E consists of the NOP, Notice of Availability, the Draft EIR including technical appendices, the Responses to Comments, Final Corrections and Additions, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and the Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Recommending the adoption of PLAN Hermosa. Hereafter, these documents will be referred to collectively as the "Final EIR." These Findings are based on the entire record before the City Council, including the Final EIR. SECTION 7. In accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21092.5, the City provided written proposed responses to public agencies that commented on the Draft EIR ten (10) days prior to certification of the Final EIR. SECTION 8. The Planning Commission of the City of Hermosa Beach held duly noticed Public Hearings on PLAN Hermosa and the Final EIR on February 22, 23, and 27; and March 13, 21, d 27, 2017 and made a formal recommendation to the City Council on March 27, 2017 with Page 3 of 5 • • s 1 2 3 4 the doption of Planning Commission Resolutions 17-09 and 17-10 recommending certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report and Adoption of PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 9. The City Council held Study Sessions to review PLAN Hermosa and the associated EIR on April 20, May 23, May 31, and June 13, 2017. Public hearings were held by the City Council on July 11, July 17, and August 22, 2017. Notice of the public hearings before the City Council on PLAN Hermosa and the FEIR was advertised in The Easy Reader Newspaper on June 29, /017 and August 17, 2017. Notification of the City Council Study Sessions and Public Hearings was also provided to all tenants and property owners of all addresses in Hermosa Beach via mail, shared with the local press, and distributed via the City's eNotify, Nixle and Nextdoor co unication systems to the Hermosa Beach community. SECTION 10. In accordance with CEQA Section 21082, the Planning Commission independently reviewed and analyzed the Final EIR, provided as Attachments A through E, and the administrative record relating to the proposed project. The Final EIR constitutes an accurate and complete statement of the environmental impacts of the proposed project. The Final EIR reflects the independent judgment of the Planning Commission and it hereby recommends the City Council adopt the facts and analysis in the Final EIR and in the Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Recommending the adoption of PLAN Hermosa and certify the Final EIR. The omi Sion of some detail or aspect of the Final EIR does not mean that it has been rejected by the Cit Council. SECTION 11. Pursuant to Section 15091 (a)(1) of the CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that changes or alterations have been required in the project that, to the extent feasible, substantially lessen the significant environmental effects identified in the EIR. These changes or alterations are included in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. In accordance with Section 15091 (d), and Section 15097 of the CEQA Guidelines, which require a public agency to adopt a program for reporting or monitoring required changes or conditions of approval to substantially lessen significant environmental effects, the City Council hereby adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program incorporated herein as Attachment C. Page 4 of 5 • 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 131 SECTION 12. In accordance with CEQA Section 21081, specific overriding economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits of the project have been identified that outweigh the significant effects on the environment, as described in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Attachment D). The City Council hereby makes the findings described in the Hermosa Beach Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for Adoption of PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 13. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution, shall cause the original of the same to be entered among the original resolutions of the City Council and shall make a minute of the passage and adoption thereof in the minutes of the City Council meeting at which the same is passed and adopted. PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 22nd day of August, 2017. PRESIDENT of the City Council an AYOR of the City of Hermosa Beach, California ATTEST: ROVED AS T I FORM: City Attorney Page 5 of 5 `04�' .41 14 se City Hall library Post Office Fire Dept, city o L hermosa beach N Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report Volume I: Final EIR SCH# 2015081009 • August 2017 Attachment 1A • • • • Attachment 1A CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH PLAN HERMOSA FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT SCH #2015081009 Prepared for:• CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH 1315 VALLEY DRIVE HERMOSA BEACH, CA 90254 Prepared by: MICHAEL BAKER INTERNATIONAL 1 KAISER PLAZA, SUITE 1150 OAKLAND, CA 94612 Revised August 2017 Attachment 1A • • • Attachment 1A TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background and Purpose of the EIR 2.0-1 1.2 Intended Uses of the EIR 2.0-1 1.3 Organization and Scope of the Final EIR 2.0-2 2.0 RESPONSES TO COMMENTS 2.1 Introduction 2.0-1 2.2 Commenter List 2.0-1 2.3 Comments and Responses 2.0-2 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR 3.1 Introduction 3.0-1 3.2 Revisions to the Draft EIR 3.0-1 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM 4.1 Mitigation Montoring Program 4.0-1 4.2 Monitoring Authority and Enforcement Responsibility 4.0-1 4.3 Mitigation Compliance Responsiblity 4.0-1 4.4 General Monitoring Procedures 4.0-1 4.5 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Table 4.0-2 APPENDICES ADDED TO APPENDIX C: TECHNICAL BACKGROUND REPORT (ON CD) Appendix Al - Hermosa Beach Market Analysis Appendix A2 - Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea Level Rise Appendix B1 - Natural Resources Appendix B2 - Special -Status Species Appendix B6 - Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment Appendix B7 - City of Hermosa Beach 2013-2021 Housing Element APPENDIX H (TRIBAL CONSULTATION) City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised March 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report • Attachment 1A LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ABBREVIATIONS AB Assembly Bill ADA Americans with Disabilities Act Caltrans California Department of Transportation CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CHR California Historical Resource EIR environmental impact report GHG greenhouse gas HCM Highway Capacity Manual kW kilowatt kWh kilowatt-hour JWPCP Joint Water Pollution Control Plant LACSD Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County LID Low Impact Development LOS level of service mgd million gallons per day MMRP mitigation monitoring and reporting program MW megawatt NAHC Native American Heritage Commission NOP Notice of Preparation NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System OPR California Governor's Office of Planning and Research PCH Pacific Coast Highway REC renewable energy certificate SB Senate Bill SCAG Southern California Association of Governments SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District SCCIC South Central Coastal Information Center SCE Southern California Edison TIS Traffic Impact Study VMT vehicle miles traveled PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report ii City of Hermosa Beach Revised March 2017 • • • Attachment 1A 1.0 INTRODUCTION This Final Environmental Impact Report (Final EIR) was prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines (Section 15132). The City of Hermosa Beach (City) is the lead agency for the environmental review of the proposed PLAN Hermosa (SCH No. 2015081009), which includes the implementation of a citywide General Plan and Local Coastal Program (proposed project). The City has the principal responsibility for approving the proposed project. 1.1 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF THE EIR The following is an overview of the environmental review process for the proposed project that led to the preparation of this Final EIR. NOTICE OF PREPARATION A Notice of Preparation (NOP) for the Draft EIR was issued August 7, 2015. The NOP was circulated to the public, local, state, and federal agencies, and other interested parties to solicit comments. These comment letters are included in Appendix B of the Draft EIR. A scoping meeting was held on August 18, 2015. The review period for the NOP ended on September 8, 2015. DRAFT EIR A Notice of Availability for the Draft EIR was posted on the City's website and distributed to interested parties on October 26, 2016. The Draft EIR was released for public and agency review for a 72 -day review period ending on January 5, 2017. The Planning Commission held a hearing on November 21, 2016, to receive comments on the Draft EIR. Comments received during the public review period are addressed in this Final EIR. The Draft EIR contains a description of the project, description of the environmental setting, identification of project impacts, and mitigation measures for impacts found to be significant, as well as an analysis of project alternatives. The Draft EIR was provided to interested public agencies and the public and was made available for review at City offices and on the City's website. FINAL EIR The City received comment letters from public agencies and the public regarding the Draft EIR. This document responds to the comments received, as required by CEQA. As prescribed by CEQA Guidelines Sections 15088 and 15132, the lead agency (in this case, the City of Hermosa Beach) is required to evaluate comments on environmental issues received from persons who have reviewed the Draft EIR and to prepare written responses to those comments. This Final EIR contains individual responses to each comment received during the public review period for the Draft EIR. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15088(c), the written responses describe the disposition of significant environmental issues raised. The City and its consultants have provided a good faith effort to respond in detail to all significant environmental issues raised by the comments. This document also contains minor edits to the Draft EIR, which are included in Section 3.0, Revisions to the Draft EIR. This document constitutes the Final EIR. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised March 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 1.0-1 • • • Attachment 1A 1.0 INTRODUCTION CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL EIR/PROJECT CONSIDERATION This document, together with the Draft EIR (incorporated by reference in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15150), will comprise the Final EIR for this project. The City will review and consider the Final EIR. If the City finds that the Final EIR is "adequate and complete," the City may certify the Final EIR. The rule of adequacy generally holds that the EIR can be certified if it: (1) shows a good faith effort at full disclosure of environmental information; and (2) provides sufficient analysis to allow decisions to be made regarding the project in contemplation of its environmental consequences. Upon review and consideration of the Final EIR, the City may take action to adopt, revise, or reject the proposed project. A decision to approve the project would be accompanied by written findings in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15091 and 15093. Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 also requires lead agencies to adopt a mitigation monitoring and reporting program to describe measures that have been adopted or made a condition of project approval in order to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment. 1.2 INTENDED USES OF THE EIR The EIR is intended to evaluate the environmental impacts of PLAN Hermosa to the greatest extent possible. This EIR, in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126, should be used as the primary environmental document to evaluate all planning and permitting actions associated with the project. Please refer to Chapter 3.0, Project Description, of the Draft EIR for a detailed discussion of PLAN Hermosa. 1.3 ORGANIZATION AND SCOPE OF THE FINAL EIR This document is organized in the following manner: SECTION 1.0 — INTRODUCTION Section 1.0 provides an overview of the EIR process to date and describes the required contents of the Final EIR. SECTION 2.0 — RESPONSES TO COMMENTS Section 2.0 includes a list of commenters, copies of written comments (coded for reference), and the responses to those written and oral comments made on the Draft EIR. SECTION 3.0 — REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR Section 3.0 lists the revisions made to the Draft EIR as a result of comments received and other staff -initiated changes. SECTION 4.0 — MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Section 4.0 provides a program for reporting or monitoring regarding the implementation of mitigation measures for PLAN Hermosa, if it is approved, to ensure that the adopted mitigation measures are implemented as defined in this EIR. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised March 2017 1.0-2 • • • Attachment 1A 2.1 INTRODUCTION This Final Environmental Impact Report (Final EIR) for PLAN Hermosa (proposed project) was prepared in accordance with CEQA (California Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) and the CEQA Guidelines (California Code Regulations Section 15000 et seq.). The City of Hermosa Beach is the lead agency for the environmental review of the proposed project and has the principal responsibility for approving the project. REQUIREMENTS FOR RESPONDING TO COMMENTS ON A DRAFT EIR CEQA Guidelines Section 15204 recommends that commenters provide detailed comments that focus on the sufficiency of the Draft EIR in identifying and analyzing the possible impacts on the environment and ways in which the project's significant effects might be avoided or mitigated. This section also notes that commenters should include an explanation and evidence supporting their comments. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15064, an effect is not considered significant in the absence of substantial evidence supporting such a conclusion. CEQA Guidelines Section 15088 requires that lead agencies evaluate all comments on environmental issues received on the Draft EIR and prepare a written response. The written response must address the significant environmental issue raised and must be detailed, especially when specific comments or suggestions (e.g., additional mitigation measures) are not accepted. In addition, there must be a good faith and reasoned analysis in the written response. However, lead agencies need only respond to significant environmental issues associated with the project and do not need to provide all the information requested by commenters, as long as a good faith effort at full disclosure is made in the EIR (CEQA Guidelines Section 15204). CEQA Guidelines Section 15088 recommends that where a response to comments results in revisions to the Draft EIR, those revisions be incorporated as a revision to the Draft EIR or as a separate section of the Final EIR. Revisions to the Draft EIR are incorporated as Section 3.0 of this Final EIR. There were numerous comments from individuals concerning PLAN Hermosa itself, with particular emphasis on carbon neutrality. Comments on PLAN Hermosa that are not germane to the analysis of environmental impacts do not require detailed responses in this Final EIR, as provided under CEQA. However, general responses are included for completeness and to inform the decision- making process. Comments that provide suggestions or questions regarding goals and policies in PLAN Hermosa are presented for consideration in a separate document and will be included in staff reports to the Planning Commission and City Council. 2.2 COMMENTER LIST The following commenters submitted written comments on the Draft EIR. The comment period for the Draft EIR began October 27, 2016, and ended January 5, 2017. Confirmation of lead agency compliance with CEQA for public review of the Draft EIR was received from the Governor's Office of Planning and Research on October 26, 2016. • • • Attachment 1A Letter Code Commenter Date Agencies CALTRANS California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), District 7 December 20, 2016 CSDLAC County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County January 5, 2017 NAHC California Native American Heritage Commission December 21, 2016 CLAFD County of Los Angeles Fire Department November 16, 2016 Tribes GBMI Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians October 30, 2016 Individuals ADLS Steve Adler November 24, 2016 BARP Peggy Barr November 17, 2016 BERC Claudia Berman January 2, 2017 FORR Robert Fortunato November 21, 2016 GRED David Grethen November 21, 2016 KRUA Arthur Krugler December4, 2016 MORG G & J Moriyama November 19, 2016 MOWB Bette Mower November 18, 2016 PAU Jens Palsberg November 20, 2016 SARK Ken Sarno November 2, 2016 SCHH Heather Schneider December 2, 2016 TATP1 Pam Tatreau December 5, 2016 TATP2 Pam Tatreau December 31, 2016 TUTC Coco Larson -Tuttle December 12, 2016 Planning Commission Meeting PUBM Transcript from Planning Commission Public Hearing on Draft EIR November 21, 2016 2.3 COMMENTS AND RESPONSES Written comments on the Draft EIR are reproduced on the following pages, along with responses to those comments in table form at the end of this section. Attachment 1A • AGENCIES • Attachment 1A • • • FATE OF CALIFORNIA—CALIFORNIA STATE TRANSPORTATION AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT 7 -OFFICE OF REGIONAL PLANNING 100 S. MAIN STREET, MS 16 LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 PHONE (213) 897-8391 FAX (213) 897-1337 www.dot.ca.gov December 20, 2016 Mr. Ken Robertson City of Hermosa Beach 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Dear Mr. Robertson: EDMUND G. DROWN Jr.. Governor Attachment 1A RE: PLAN Hermosa, General Plan & Local Coastal Program Vic. LA-01/PM 20.60 to 21.88 SCH # 2015081009 Ref. IGR /CEQA No. 150812EA-NOP GTS # LA-2016-00256AL-DEIR Serious Drought. Help save water! Thank you for including the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in the environmental review process for the above referenced project. The City is updating the City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program, locally referred to as PLAN Hermosa. The City plans to accommodate an additional 300 dwelling units and 630,400 square feet of non- residential development between 2015 and 2040. On page 4.14-32, when using Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) analysis, The City should refer the project's traffic consultant to OPR's website, guidelines on evaluating transportation impacts in CEQA where significant threshold is identified. https://www.opr.ca.gov/docs/Revised VMT CEQA Guidelines Proposal January 20 2016.pdf On page 4.14-33 of the Draft Environmental Impact Report, the impact criteria for signalized intersection under Caltrans jurisdiction are shown in Table 4.14-19 (Caltrans Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria). The threshold in the Table is incorrect. Please consult with Caltrans for further assistance. On page 4.14-39, "...Caltrans' plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway, as well as a major change in roadway characteristics, east to west, from Artesia Boulevard to Gould Avenue." On the same page, "Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by Caltrans' plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway and improvement plans for the intersection included in the Aviation Boulevard Master Plan, including enhanced crosswalks and repurposing of public right-of-way for parkettes, pedestrian space, or a crossing refuge." Both statements need to provide reference for Caltrans verification. Any proposed mitigation on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) must be submitted to Caltrans for approval. "Provide a safe, sustainable, Integrated and efficient transportation system to enhance California's economy and livability" CALTRANS-1 CALTRANS-2 CALTRANS-3 • Mr. Ken Robertson December 20, 2016 Page 2 Attachment 1A Caltrans suggests the following new policies to the PLAN Hermosa General Plan & Local Coastal Program. • The City will involve Caltrans in the update of the existing Transportation Impact Fee program that would include the State transportation systems and facilities. (if any) • The City will work with Caltrans to identify cumulative impact locations on State facilities and traffic improvements to alleviate traffic congestion within the Specific Plan area. • The City will work with neighboring Cities to address cumulative significant traffic impact on I-405 and SR -01. • The City will work with Caltrans to evaluate access management needs and strategies to better manage traffic operations on arterial streets located within close proximity of freeway on/off-ramps in an effort to reduce traffic backups and frictions at Caltrans transportation systems. Caltrans encourages the City to work with neighboring developing cities to resolve any cumulative significant traffic impacts on the State facilities from other cities' development. Please be reminded that any work performed within the State Right-of-way will require an Encroachment Permit from Caltrans. Any modifications to State facilities must meet all mandatory design standard and specifications. Storm water run-off is a sensitive issue for Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Please be mindful that projects should be designed to discharge clean run-off water. Additionally, discharge of storm water run-off is not permitted onto State highway facilities without any storm water management plan. Transportation of heavy construction equipment and/or materials, which requires the use of oversized -transport vehicles on State highways, will require a transportation permit from Caltrans. It is recommended that large size truck trips be limited to off-peak commute periods. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mr. Alan Lin the project coordinator at (213) 897-8391 and refer to GTS # LA-2016-00256AL-DEIR. DIANNA WATSON IGR/CEQA Branch Chief cc: email to Scott Morgan, State Clearinghouse "Provide a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system to enhance California's economy and livability" CALTRANS-4 CALTRANS-5 Attachment IA COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY 1955 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601-1400 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 4998, Whittier, CA 90607-4998 Telephone: (562) 699-7411, FAX: (562) 699-5422 www.lacsd.org • • GRACE ROBINSON HYDE Chief Engineer and General Manager January 5, 2017 Ref. Doc. No.: 3923874 Mr. Ken Robertson, Director Community Development Department City of Hermosa Beach 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa. Beach, CA 90254 Dear Mr. Robertson: Response to DEIR for the PLAN Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update The County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Districts) received a Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the subject project on October 31, 2016. The City of Hermosa Beach is located within the jurisdictional boundary of the South Bay Cities Sanitation District. We offer the following comments regarding sewerage service: 1. The Districts own, operate, and maintain the large trunk sewers that form the backbone of the regional wastewater conveyance system. Local collector and/or lateral sewer lines are the responsibility of the jurisdiction in which they are located. As such, the Districts cannot comment on any deficiencies in the sewerage system in the City of Hermosa Beach (City) except to state that presently no deficiencies exist in Districts' facilities that serve the City. For information on deficiencies in the City sewerage system, please contact the City Department of Public Works and/or the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. 2. The Districts should review individual developments within the City in order to determine whether or not sufficient trunk sewer capacity exists to serve each project and if Districts' facilities will be affected by the project. 3. The wastewater generated by the City is treated at the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant located in the City of Carson, which has a capacity of 400 million gallons per day (mgd) and currently processes an average flow of 254.1 mgd. 4. In order to estimate the volume of wastewater a project will generate, go to www.lacsd.org, Wastewater & Sewer Systems, click on Will Serve Program, and click on the Table 1, Loadings for Each Class of Land Use link for a copy of the Districts' average wastewater generation factors. 5. The Districts are empowered by the California Health and Safety Code to charge a fee for the privilege of connecting (directly or indirectly) to the Districts' Sewerage System or for increasing CSDLAC-2 the strength or quantity of wastewater discharged from connected facilities. This connection fee is CSDLAC-1 DOC: #4003157.SBCD If Recycled Paper 1.4 Attachment 1A • Mr. Ken Robertson -2- January 5, 2017 a capital facilities fee that is imposed in an amount sufficient to construct an incremental expansion of the Sewerage System to accommodate proposed projects. Payment of a connection fee will be required before a permit to connect to the sewer is issued. For more information and a copy of the Connection Fee Information Sheet, go to www.lacsd.org, Wastewater & Sewer Systems, click on Will Serve Program, and search for the appropriate link. In determining the impact to the Sewerage System and applicable connection fees, the Districts' Chief Engineer will determine the user category (e.g. Condominium, Single Family home, etc.) that best represents the actual or anticipated use of the parcel or facilities on the parcel. For more specific information regarding the connection fee application procedure and fees, please contact the Connection Fee Counter at (562) 908-4288, extension 2727. 6. In order for the Districts to conform to the requirements of the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA), the capacities of the Districts' wastewater treatment facilities are based on the regional growth forecast adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). Specific policies included in the development of the SCAG regional growth forecast are incorporated into clean air plans, which are prepared by the South Coast and Antelope Valley Air Quality Management Districts in order to improve air quality in the South Coast and Mojave Desert Air Basins as mandated by the CAA. All expansions of Districts' facilities must be sized and service phased in a manner that will be consistent with the SCAG regional growth forecast for the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and Imperial. The available capacity of the Districts' treatment facilities will, therefore, be limited to levels associated with the approved growth identified by SCAG. As such, this letter does not constitute a guarantee of wastewater service, but is to advise you that the Districts intend to provide this service up to the levels that are legally permitted and to inform you of the currently existing capacity and any proposed expansion of the Districts' facilities. If you have any questions, please contact the undersigned at (562) 908-4288, extension 2717. Verb truly yours, .014-et42--4 driana Raza Customer Service Specialist Facilities Planning Department AR:ar DOC: #4003 I57.SBCD CSDLAC-2 cont. CS DLAC-3 STATEDF CALIFORNIA NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION 1550 Harbor Blvd., Suite 100 West Sacramento, CA 95691 Phone (916) 373-3710 Fax (916) 373-5471 Email: nahc@nahc.ca.gov Website: (tttp://www.nahc.ca.gov Twitter: @CA_NAHC Ken Robertson City of Hermosa Beach 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 •u a December 21, 2016 sent via e-mail: krobertson@hermosabch.org Attachment 1A • G -.Brown J..Governor Re: SCH#2015081009, PLAN Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update Project, City of Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles County, California Dear Mr. Robertson: The Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) has reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Report prepared for the project referenced above. The review included the Project Description and Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures, prepared by the City of Hermosa Beach. We have the following concerns: • There is no Tribal Cultural Resources section or subsection in the Executive Summary as per California Natural Resources Agency (2016) "Final Text for tribal cultural resources update to Appendix G: Environmental Checklist Form," hifp://resources.ca.gov/cega/docs/ab52/Clean-final-AB-52-App-G-text-Submitted.pdf • There are no mitigation measures specifically addressing Tribal Cultural Resources separately. Mitigation measures must take Tribal Cultural Resources into consideration as required under AB -52, with or without consultation occurring. • There is no documentation of government -to -government consultation by the lead agency under SB -18 or AB -52 with Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated to the project area as required by statute, or that mitigation measures were developed in consultation with the tribes. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)1, specifically Public Resources Code section 21084.1, states that a project that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment.2 If there is substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before a lead agency, that a project may have a significant effect on the environment, an environmental Impact report (EIR) shall be prepared.3 In order to determine whether a project will cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource, a lead agency will need to determine whether there are historical resources with the area of project effect (APE). CEQA was amended in 2014 by Assembly Bill 52. (AB 52).4 AB 52 applies to any project for which a notice of preparation or a notice of negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration Is flied on or after July 1, 2015. AB 52 created a separate category for "tribal cultural resources"5, that now includes "a project with an effect that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment.6 Public agencies shall, when feasible, avoid damaging effects to any tribal cultural resource.' Your project may also be subject to Senate Bill 18 (SB 18) (Burton, Chapter 905, Statutes of 2004), Government Code 65352.3, if it also involves the adoption of or amendment to a general plan or a specific plan, or the designation or proposed designation of open space. Both SB 18 and AB 52 have tribal consultation requirements. Additionally, if your project is also subject to the federal National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. § 4321 et seq.) (NEPA), the tribal consultation requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 19668 may also apply. Consult your legal counsel about compliance with AB 52 and SB 18 as well as compliance with any other applicable laws. Pub. Resources Code § 21000 et seq. 2 Pub. Resources Code § 21084.1; Cal. Code Regs., tit.14, § 15064.5 (b); CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 (b) Pub. Resources Code § 21080 (d); Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15064 subd.(a)(1); CEQA Guidelines § 15064 (a)(1) Government Code 65352.3 ° Pub. Resources Code § 21074 ° Pub. Resources Code § 21084.2 Pub. Resources Code § 21084.3 (a) ° 154 U.S.C. 300101, 36 C.F.R. § 800 et seq. NAHC-1 • • Attachment 1A Agencies should be aware that AB 52 does not preclude agencies from initiating tribal consultation with tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with their jurisdictions before the timeframes provided in AB 52. For that reason, we urge you to continue to request Native American Tribal Consultation Lists and Sacred Lands File searches from the NAHC. The request forms can be found online at: http://nahc.ca.gov/resources/forms/. Additional information regarding AB 52 can be found online at http://nahc.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/AB52TribalConsultation CaIEPAPDF.pdf, entitled "Tribal Consultation Under AB 52: Requirements and Best Practices". The NAHC recommends lead agencies consult with all California Native American tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of your proposed project as early as possible in order to avoid inadvertent discoveries of Native American human remains and best protect tribal cultural resources. A brief summary of portions of AB 52 and SB 18 as well as the NAHC's recommendations for conducting cultural resources assessments is also attached. Please contact me at gayle.totton@nahc.ca.gov or call (916) 373-3710 if you have any questions. Sincerely, yl:fotton, B.S., M.A., Ph.D sociate Governmental Project Analyst Attachment cc: State Clearinghouse 2 NAH C-1 cont. • Attachment 1A Pertinent Statutory information: Under AB 52: AB 52 has added to CEQA the additional requirements listed below, along with many other requirements: Within fourteen (14) days of determining that an application tor a project Is complete or of a decision by a public agency to undertake a project, a lead agency shall provide formal notification to a designated contact of, or tribal representative of, traditionally and culturally affiliated California Native Amerlcan tribes that have requested notice. A lead agency shall begin the consultation process within 30 days of receiving a request for consultation from a California Native American tribe that is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of the proposed project.9 and prior to the release of a negative declaration, mitigated negative declaration or environmental Impact report. For purposes of AB 52, °consultation shall have the same meaning as provided in Gov. Code § 65352.4 (SB 18).10 The following topics of consultation, if a tribe requests to discuss them, are mandatory topics of consultation: a. Alternatives to the protect. b. Recommended mitifgation measures. c. Significant effects.t 1. The following topics are discretionary topics of consultation: a. Type of environmental review necessary. b. Significance of the tribal cultural resources. c. Significance of the project's Impacts on tribal cultural resources. If necessary, project alternatives or appropriate measures for preservation or mitigation that the tribe may recommend to the lead agency. With some exceptions, any information, Including but not limited to, the location, description, and use of tribal cultural resources submitted by a California Native American tribe during the environmental review process shall not be Included In the environmental document or otherwise disclosed by the lead agency or any other public agency to the public, consistent with Government Code sections 6254 (r) and 6254.10. Any information submitted by a California Native American tribe during the consultation or environmental review process shall be published in a confidential appendix to the environmental document unless the tribe that provided the Information consents, in writing, to the disclosure of some or all of the information to the public.13 If a project may have a significant impact on a tribal cultural resource, the lead agency's environmental document shall discuss both of the following: a. Whether the proposed protect has a significant impact on an identified tribal cultural resource. b. Whether feasible alternatives or mitigation measures, including those measures that may be agreed to pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21082.3, subdivision (a), avoid or substantially lessen the impact on the identified tribal cultural resource.14 Consultation with a tribe shall be considered concluded when either of the following occurs: a. The parties agree to measures to mitigate or avoid a significant effect, if a significant effect exists, on a tribal cultural resource; or b. A party, acting in good faith and after reasonable effort, concludes that mutual agreement cannot be reached.15 Any mitigation measures agreed upon In the consultation conducted pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.2 shall be recommended for inclusion in the environmental document and In an adopted mitigation monitoring and reporting program, if determined to avoid or lessen the impact pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21082.3, subdivision (b), paragraph 2, and shall be fully enforceable.16 If mitigation measures recommended by the staff of the lead agency as a result of the consultation process are not included in the environmental document or If there are no agreed upon mitigation measures at the conclusion of consultation, or if consultation does not occur, and If substantial evidence demonstrates that a project will cause a significant effect to a tribal cu 7ral resource, the lead agency shall consider feasible mltigatlon pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21084.3 (b). An environmental impact report may not be certified, nor may a mitigated negative declaration or a negative declaration be adopted unless one of the following occurs: a. The consultation process between the tribes and the lead agency has occurred as provided in Public Resources Code sections 21080.3.1 and 21080.3.2 and concluded pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.2. b. The tribe that requested consultation failed to provide comments to the lead agency or otherwise failed to engage in the consultation process. ° Pub. Resources Code § 21080.3.1, subds. (d) and (e) 10 Pub. Resources Code § 21080.3.1 (b) " Pub. Resources Code § 21080.3.2 (a) 12 Pub. Resources Code§ 21080.3.2 (a) 13 Pub. Resources Code § 21082.3 (c)(1) 14 Pub. Resources Code § 21082.3 (b) 16 Pub. Resources Code § 21080.3.2 (b) 16 Pub. Resources Code § 21082.3 (a) " Pub. Resources Code § 21082.3 (e) 3 • • Attachment 1A c. The lead agency provided notice of the project to the tribe in compliance with Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1 (d) and the tribe failed to request consultation within 30 days.78 This process should be documented In the Tribal Cultural Resources section of your environmental document. Under SB 18: Government Code § 65352.3 (a) (1) requires consultation with Native Americans on general plan proposals for the purposes of "preserving or mitigating impacts to places, features, and objects described § 5097.9 and § 5091.993 of the Public Resources Code that are located within the city or county's jurisdiction. Government Code § 65560 (a), (b), and (c) provides for consultation with Native American tribes on the open -space element of a county or city general plan for the purposes of protecting places, features, and objects described in Sections 5097.9 and 5097.993 of the Public Resources Code. • SB 18 applies to local governments and requires them to contact, provide notice to, refer plans to, and consult with tribes prior to the adoption or amendment of a general plan or a specific plan, or the designation of open space. Local governments should consult the Governor's Office of Planning and Research's "Tribal Consultation Guidelines," which can be found online at: flaps://www,opr.ca.gov/docs/09 14 05 Updated Guidelines 922.pdf • Tribal Consultation: If a local government considers a proposal to adopt or amend a general plan or a specific plan, or to designate open space it is required to contact the appropriate tribes Identified by the NAHC by requesting a "Tribal Consultation List." If a tribe, once contacted, requests consultation the local government must consult with the tribe on the plan proposal. A tribe has 90 days from the date of receipt of notification to request consultation unless a shorter timeframe has been agreed to by the tribe.19 • There is no Statutory Time Limit on Tribal Consultation under the law. • Confidentiality: Consistent with the guidelines developed and adopted by the Office of Planning and Research 20 the city or county shall protect the confidentiality of the information concerning the specific identity, location, character, and use of places, features and objects described In Public Resources Code sections 5097.9 and 5097.993 that are within the city's or county's jurisdiction.21 • Conclusion Tribal Consultation: Consultation should be concluded at the point in which: o The parties to the consultation come to a mutual agreement concerning the appropriate measures for preservation or mitigation; or o Either the local government or the tribe, acting in good faith and after reasonable effort, concludes that mutual agreement cannot be reached concerning the appropriate measures of preservation or mitigation.22 NAHC Recommendations for Cultural Resources Assessments: • Contact the NAHC for: o A Sacred Lands File search. Remember that tribes do not always record their sacred sites in the Sacred Lands File, nor are they required to do so. A Sacred Lands File search is not a substitute for consultation with tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of the project's APE. o A Native American Tribal Contact List of appropriate tribes for consultation concerning the project site and to assist in planning for avoidance, preservation in place, or, failing both, mitigation measures. • The request form can be found at hflp://nahc.ca.gov/resources/forms/. • Contact the appropriate regional California Historical Research Information System (CHRIS) Center (http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page Id=1068) for an archaeological records search. The records search will determine: o If part or the entire APE has been previously surveyed for cultural resources. o If any known cultural resources have been already been recorded on or adjacent to the APE. o If the probability is low, moderate, or high that cultural resources are located in the APE. o If a survey is required to determine whether previously unrecorded cultural resources are present. • If an archaeological inventory survey is required, the final stage is the preparation of a professional report detailing the findings and recommendations of the records search and field survey. o The final report containing site forms, site significance, and mitigation measures should be submitted immediately to the planning department. All information regarding site locations, Native American human remains, and associated funerary objects should be in a separate confidential addendum and not be made available for public disclosure. o The final written report should be submitted within 3 months after work has been completed to the appropriate regional CHRIS center. 1° Pub. Resources Code § 21082.3 (d) 1e (Gov. Code § 65352.3 (a)(2)). 20 pursuant to Gov. Code section 65040.2, 2' (Gov. Code § 65352.3 (b)). a (Tribal Consultation Guidelines, Governor's Office of Planning and Research (2005) at p. 18). 4 • Attachment 1A Examples of Mitigation Measures That May Se Considered to Avoid or Minimize Significant Adverse Impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources: o Avoidance and preservation of the resources in place, including, but not limited to: • Planning and construction to avoid the resources and protect the cultural and natural context. • Planning greenspace, parks, or other open space, to Incorporate the resources with culturally appropriate • protection and management criteria. o Treating the resource with culturally appropriate dignity, taking into account the tribal cultural values and meaning of the resource, Including, but not limited to, the following: • Protecting the cultural character and Integrity of the resource. • Protecting the traditional use of the resource. • Protecting the confidentiality of the resource. o Permanent conservation easements or other interests in real property, with culturally appropriate management criteria for the purposes of preserving or utilizing the resources or places. o Please note that a federally recognized California Native American tribe or a non -federally recognized California Native American tribe that is on the contact list maintained by the NAHC to protect a California prehistoric, archaeological, cultural, spiritual, or ceremonial$lace may acquire and hold conservation easements if the conservation easement is voluntarily conveyed: o Please note that It is the policy of the state that Native American remains and associated grave artifacts shall be repatriated.24 The lack of surface evidence of archaeological resources (including tribal cultural resources) does not preclude their subsurface existence. o Lead agencies should include in their mitigation and monitoring reporting program?lan provisions for the identification and evaluation of inadvertently discovered archaeological resources. s In areas of Identified archaeological sensitivity, a certified archaeologist and a culturally affiliated Native American with knowledge of cultural resources should monitor all ground -disturbing activities. o Lead agencies should include In their mitigation and monitoring reporting program plans provisions for the disposition of recovered cultural items that are not burial associated in consultation with culturally affiliated Native Americans. o Lead agencies should Include In their mitigation and monitoring reporting program plans provisions for the treatment and disposition of inadvertently discovered Native American human remains. Health and Safety Code section 7050.5, Public Resources Code section 5097.98, and Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, section 15064.5, subdivisions (d) and (e) (CEQA Guidelines section 15064.5, subds, (d) and (e)) address the processes to be followed In the event of an inadvertent discovery of any Native American human remains and associated grave goods in a location other than a dedicated cemetery. 25 (Civ. Code § 815.3 (c)). a (Pub. Resources Code § 5097.991). 25 per Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, section 15064.5(f) (CEQA Guidelines section 15064.5(f)). 5 DARYL L. OSBY FIRE CHIEF FORESTER & FIRE WARDEN November 16, 2016 COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT 1320 NORTH EASTERN AVENUE LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90063-3294 Ken Robertson, Director City of Hermosa Beach Community Development Department 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Dear Mr. Ken Robertson: Attachment IVECEIVED Nov 2 12016 COMMUNITY DEV. NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF A DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT, PUBLIC REVIEW PERIOD AND PUBLIC MEETING, "PLAN HERMOSA: CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH GENERAL PLAN AND LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM UPDATE", IT HAS INITIATED A COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM TO UPDATE ITS GENERAL PLAN AND LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM, IT REQUIRES EACH CITY TO ADOPT A COMPREHENSIVE, LONG TERM GENERAL PLAN FOR ITS PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT, CITYWIDE-HERMOSA BEACH FFER 201600178 The notice of availability of a draft environmental impact report has been reviewed by the Planning Division, Land Development Unit, Forestry Division, and Health Hazardous Materials Division of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department. The following are their comments: PLANNING DIVISION: The subject property is entirely within the City of Hermosa Beach, which is not a part of the emergency response area of the Los Angeles County Fire Department (also known as the Consolidated Fire Protection District of Los Angeles County). Therefore, this project does not appear to have any impact on the emergency responsibilities of this Department. SERVING THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY AND THE CITIES OF: AGOURA HILLS BRADBURY ARTESIA CALABASAS AZUSA CARSON BALDWIN PARK CERRITOS BELL CLAREMONT BELL GARDENS COMMERCE BELLFLOWER COVINA CUDAHY DIAMOND BAR DUARTE EL MONTE GARDENA GLENDORA HAWAIIAN GARDENS HAWTHORNE HIDDEN HILLS HUNTINGTON PARK INDUSTRY INGLEWOOD IRWINDALE LA CANADA•FLINTRIDGE LA HABRA LA MIRADA LA PUENTE LAKEWOOD LANCASTER LAWNDALE LOMITA LYNWOOD MALIBU MAYWOOD NORWALK PALMDALE PALOS VERDES ESTATES PARAMOUNT PICO RIVERA POMONA RANCHO PALOS VERDES ROLLING HILLS ROLLING HILLS ESTATES ROSEMEAD SAN DIMAS SANTA CLARITA CLAFD-1 SIGNAL HILL SOUTH EL MONTE SOUTH GATE TEMPLE CITY WALNUT WEST HOLLYWOOI WESTLAKE VILLAG WHITTIER • • Attachment IA Ken Robertson, Director November 16, 2016 Page 2 LAND DEVELOPMENT UNIT: This project is located entirely in the City of Hermosa Beach. Therefore the City of Hermosa Beach Fire Department has jurisdiction concerning this project and will be setting conditions. This project is located in close proximity to the jurisdictional area of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. However this project is unlikely to have an impact that necessitates a comment concerning general requirements from the Land Development Unit of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Should any questions arise regarding subdivision, water systems, or access, please contact the County of Los Angeles Fire Department - Land Development Unit's, Inspector Nancy Rodeheffer at (323) 890-4243. The County of Los Angeles Fire Department, Land Development Unit appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. FORESTRY DIVISION — OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS: The statutory responsibilities of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department, Forestry Division include erosion control, watershed management, rare and endangered species, vegetation, fuel modification for Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or Fire Zone 4, archeological and cultural resources, and the County Oak Tree Ordinance. HEALTH HAZARDOUS MATERIALS DIVISION: The Health Hazardous Materials Division of the Los Angeles County Fire Department has I no comment regarding the project at this time. If you have any additional questions, please contact this office at (323) 890-4330. Very truly yours, A/4A,15(‘-- . /14 KEVIN T. JOHNSON, ACTING CHIEF, FORESTRY DIVISION PREVENTION SERVICES BUREAU KTJ:ac CLAFD-1 cont. CLAFD-2 CLAFD-3 • • • This page intentionally left blank. Attachment 1A • • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # Response California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) CALTRANS-1 The commenter recommends that the City refer to the California Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) Guidelines for vehicle miles traveled analysis in CEQA. The OPR website and guidelines regarding vehicle miles traveled (VMT) analysis in CEQA documents were reviewed in conjunction with the preparation of the project's Traffic Impact Study (TIS). The Draft EIR (pp. 4.14-19 through 4.14-20) summarizes how Senate Bill (SB) 743 will change the way in which transportation impacts may be evaluated by jurisdictions. While the VMT analysis in the EIR is consistent with draft guidelines being prepared by OPR in response to SB 743, its implementation is still evolving and has not yet been incorporated into the CEQA Guidelines. As such, the City of Hermosa Beach does not have adopted thresholds for evaluating a project's VMT. Because the recommendations for new analysis metrics and thresholds of significance are still under development by OPR, the VMT metrics presented in the City's Draft EIR are for informational purposes, as noted on page 4.14-32 in the Draft EIR, and the City has relied on adopted level of service (LOS) standards to determine potential impacts. CALTRANS-2 This comment references Table 4.14-19 (Caltrans Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria), which is on page 4.14-34 in the Draft EIR. The table identifies three impact thresholds. The comment states that the threshold in the table is incorrect, but does not indicate which threshold is incorrect. Per Caltrans' TIS guidelines, Caltrans intersections along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in the study area were analyzed using the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) methodology. While Caltrans' TIS guidelines provide screening criteria to determine whether a TIS is needed, its guidance does not include criteria to determine whether the project's trip generation should be considered "significant" under CEQA. For purposes of the Draft EIR analysis, PLAN Hermosa would create a significant impact at a signalized intersection if it causes the intersection to degrade to LOS D, E, or F from LOS C or above. The City, as the CEQA lead agency, worked with its traffic consultant to establish the thresholds used in the Draft EIR, which are consistent with standards used in other recent environmental documents in the city, including the TIS for the E&B Oil Development Project EIR. CALTRANS-3 The City and its project consultants selected a project evaluation scenario for the Caltrans intersections along the PCH that included lane repurposing consistent with the policies and objectives in PLAN Hermosa and that would document the potential impacts of substantial modifications to the intersections' operating capacity. Specific information for each intersection is included in Appendix G in the Draft EIR, based on the master planning documents available at the time of the analysis. The plans referred to are still under development. Caltrans has not yet completed its Project Study Report for improvements to the PCH, so no formal reference is available for that plan. However, the Request for Programming is available at: http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5706. • • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # . Response The Aviation Boulevard Master Plan is also under development. Documentation of a public meeting for the project's early conceptualization is available at: http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=4&clip_id=2462& meta id=126846. As noted on page 4.14-39 in the Draft EIR, PLAN Hermosa would contribute to significant impacts at the intersections of the PCH with Artesia Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard. Opportunities for physical mitigations (by the City) are limited by alignment issues, Caltrans' plans for the PCH intersections noted in planning documents, and inconsistency with local adopted plans. For those reasons, there is no feasible mitigation available to the City to mitigate PLAN Hermosa impacts, and the City is not proposing any specific mitigation for PCH intersections at this time. However, the City will continue to work with Caltrans in the context of the PSR and future engineering studies when specific projects are advanced. CALTRANS-4 The commenter suggests four additional policies be added to PLAN Hermosa. The suggested policies address coordination between the City and Caltrans concerning state facilities, as well as the City's transportation impact fee program. The suggested policies do not propose specific measures that, if implemented, would further reduce transportation network impacts identified in the Draft EIR. PLAN Hermosa actions include substantial implementation of Transportation Demand Management measures that are expected to reduce the expected growth in traffic compared with the 2040 without PLAN Hermosa scenario. Therefore, cumulative impacts on both local and state facilities will be reduced. It is not clear from the comment how the suggested policies would further reduce these impacts. However, the commenter's suggested changes are provided in a separate document and will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council to consider their incorporation into PLAN Hermosa. CALTRANS-5 PLAN Hermosa does not propose any specific projects that would directly affect state roadways or drainage systems, nor would it result in the movement of goods requiring a Caltrans transportation permit. This comment is not directed to the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. City staff acknowledges Caltrans requirements, and the City would be responsible for ensuring private or public projects that may be developed in the city comply with applicable design standards and permitting. Additionally, the City's Low Impact Development (LID) Ordinance, green streets policy, Enhanced Watershed Management Plan, and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit ensure stormwater is controlled, which is explained in greater detail in Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, in the Draft EIR, beginning on page 4.8-8. County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County CSDLAC-1 This is an informational comment about the County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County wastewater collection and treatment system. It is not specifically directed to the analysis in the Draft EIR, but does include information about capacity and flows. City staff reviewed the description of facilities in the Draft EIR (pp. 4.13-32 and 4.13-39) relative to the information presented in the comment • • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # Response and did not find any discrepancies, with one minor exception. The Draft EIR (p. 4.13-32) reported an average flow of 263.1 million gallons per day (mgd) to the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant (based on information provided by the district in its Notice of Preparation (NOP) comment letter [Draft EIR Appendix B)), while this comment indicates an average flow of 254.1 mgd, presumably reflecting more current information. This discrepancy does not affect the conclusion in the Draft EIR about impacts on wastewater facilities, because the capacity of the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant remains at 400 mgd, and the more current. information reflects a decrease in average flow, meaning the plant is further away from reaching capacity than was previously presented. However, the Draft EIR has been revised with this information (see Chapter 3.0, Revisions to the Draft EIR). With regard to comment 4 in the letter, the flows presented in the Draft EIR (p. 4.13-39) were calculated by district staff and provided in its NOP comment letter. CSDLAC-2 This is an informational comment about the district's sewerage fee program. It does not address the analysis in the Draft EIR. CSDLAC-3 This comment notes that the future capacity of the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant is based on the regional growth forecast prepared and adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and therefore capacity of the plant is limited to the approved growth identified by SCAG. As described in Draft EIR Section 4.12, Population, Housing, and Employment, the City of Hermosa Beach provided input to SCAG in the preparation of the Regional Growth Forecast adopted as part of the 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan on the population, household, and employment buildout proposed under PLAN Hermosa, and SCAG accepted that input in full, making the local and regional growth forecasts identical for growth by the year 2040. Based on the flow estimates provided by the district in its NOP comment letter, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the wastewater system would represent less than an additional 0.1 percent contribution to flows to the system. This increase would have a negligible impact on system capacity (Draft EIR p. 4.13-39). Native American Heritage Commission NAHC-1 The Draft EIR fully evaluated potential impacts on tribal cultural resources in Section 4.4, Cultural Resources. The City of Hermosa Beach has also complied with Senate Bill (SB) 18 and Assembly Bill (AB) 52 consultation requirements. The Executive Summary document provided to the NAHC by the State Clearinghouse included a CD containing the Draft EIR, which contains the specific information the commenter asserts was missing from the EIR. As stated in the Draft EIR (p. 4.4-1), information for the analysis in the Cultural Resources section of the Draft EIR was based on a technical report titled Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment and Historic Resources Existing Conditions Report to support PLAN Hermosa, prepared by PCR Services Corporation and included in the Draft EIR as Appendix C-7. The assessment included an archaeological resources records search through the California Historical Resources Information System, South Central Coastal Information Center (CHRIS-SCCIC), and a Sacred Lands File search through the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), among other items (Draft EIR p. 4.4-1). • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # Response The Draft EIR (p. 4.4-5) described the requirements for SB 18 and AB 52 tribal consultation requirements and how the City has complied with those requirements. In August 2014, the City received information from the NAHC pursuant to SB 18 indicating a search of the results of a Sacred Lands File search and the names of tribal representatives. As stated on page 4.4-5, the City requested consultation with Native American tribes in compliance with SB 18 in January 2015, and again under AB 52 in August 2015. In addition to the tribal consultation process, the City has sent notifications to each of the listed tribal organizations offering opportunities to comment on the NOP and the Draft EIR. Copies of all communications with the NAHC and the tribal organizations listed by the NAHC in accordance with SB 18 and AB 52 requirements have been provided in a new Appendix H added to the Final EIR. The documents in Appendix H are confidential to comply with AB 52 and protect the confidential information provided by California Native American Tribes. They are included in the administrative record for the EIR and are on file with the City of Hermosa Beach. The Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians- Kizh Nation have requested that an experienced, trained, and certified Native American monitor be on-site during any ground -disturbing activities related to subsequent projects. It should be noted that PLAN Hermosa is a program level document that will not directly result in physical changes to the environment since there is no evidence of a substantial impact and we cannot speculate what types of projects will be proposed under the General Plan, revisions to the implementation actions are appropriate to respond to tribe's concerns. The Draft EIR (Impacts 4.1-1 and 4.1-2 on pp. 4.4-10 through 4.4-12) evaluated the potential for implementation of PLAN Hermosa to adversely affect Native American resources and human remains. As stated on page 4.4-11, no known archaeological resources (historic or prehistoric) have been recorded within the city. The Draft EIR noted that these findings, however, do not preclude the possibility of encountering undiscovered archaeological resources during construction, given the proven prehistoric and historic occupation of the region, the identification of surface and subsurface archaeological resources near the PLAN Hermosa planning area (e.g., Old Salt Lake and CA -LAN -1872), and the favorable natural conditions (e.g., Pacific Ocean) that would have attracted prehistoric and historic inhabitants to the area. The archaeological monitoring of numerous construction projects throughout the region in recent decades has demonstrated the existence of deeply buried archaeological deposits, especially in locations of rapid Holocene deposition such as alluvial fans. The Draft EIR (p. 4.4-12) also noted that the discovery of Native American human remains, including cases of multiple burials, is not uncommon in the region (e.g., Malaga Cove). The City concluded impacts would be less than significant and would not require mitigation measures because PLAN Hermosa includes a comprehensive policy - based approach for determining whether tribal resources or remains may be present in an area in which ground disturbance could occur and how potential impacts would be mitigated. For example, implementation action LAND USE -23 (Draft EIR p. 4.4-10) directs that the City require archaeological investigations for all applicable discretionary projects, in accordance with CEQA regulations, for areas not previously surveyed and/or that are determined sensitive for cultural • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # Response resources. As part of the implementation action, the City will require the preservation of discovered archaeologically significant resources (as determined based on city, state, and federal standards by a qualified professional) in place if feasible or provide mitigation (avoidance, excavation, documentation, curation, data recovery, or other appropriate measures) prior to further disturbance. The Draft EIR (pp. 4.4-11 through 4.4-12) explained how this process would work: an initial archaeological study (Phase I Assessment), at a minimum, would consist of the following tasks to identify known archaeological resources in a given project site: a cultural resources records search through the South Central Coastal Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System, a pedestrian survey of the project site, a review of the land use history, and coordination with knowledgeable organizations or individuals (e.g., Hermosa Beach Historical Society, Native American tribes). If warranted, additional analyses such as archaeological test excavations and/or remote sensing methods would be implemented to identify resources. To more explicitly address tribal requests for a Native American monitor to be present during ground -disturbing activities, the City proposes amending implementation action LAND USE -21 as follows (new text underlined): LAND USE -21. All discretionary projects that include around disturbance or excavation activities on previously undisturbed land shall be required to conduct archaeological investigations in accordance with CEQA regulations to determine if the project is sensitive for cultural resources. Additionally, as the Lead Agency for future discretionary projects, the City is required under AB 52 to notify tribal organizations of proposed projects and offer to consult with those tribal organizations that indicate interest. Following any tribal consultation or archaeological investigation, the City shall weigh and consider available evidence to determine whether there is a potential risk for disturbing or damaaina any cultural or tribal resources and whether any precautionary measures can be required to reduce or eliminate that risk. Those precautions may include reauirina construction workers to complete training on archaeoloaical and tribal resources before any ground disturbance activity and/or requiring a Qualified archaeologist or tribal representative to monitor some or all of the ground disturbance activities. The City shall require the preservation of discovered archaeologically significant resources (as determined based on city, state, and federal standards by a qualified professional) in place if feasible or provide mitigation (avoidance, excavation, documentation, curation, data recovery, or other appropriate measures) prior to further disturbance. County of Los Angeles Fire Department CLAFD-1 The commenter states PLAN Hermosa does not appear to have any impact on the emergency responsibilities of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department. The comment does not affect the conclusions in the Draft EIR concerning fire protection impacts (Impact 4.13.2-1 [pp. 4.13-7 through 4.13-8) in Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities). • • Attachment 1A AGENCIES Comment # Response CLAFD-2 This commenter states the statutory responsibilities of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department Forestry Division. The comment does not address the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. CLAFD-3 The commenter states that the Health Hazardous Materials Division of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department has no comments at this time. • • Attachment 1A TRIBES Attachment 1A • • Attachment 1A Subject: Plan Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach Beach General Plan and *Local Coastal Program Update Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians Sun 10/30/2016 1:59 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Cc:Matt Teutimez.Kizh Gabrieleno ; Gary Stickel ; Christina Swindall ; Henrypedregon g 2 attachments (737 KB) IMG_4746 jpg; Subject- Plan Hermosa- City of Hermosa Beach Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update .docx; please see atatchment Sincerely, Andrew Salas, Chairman Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation 4,abrieleno 0 Box 393 Covina, CA 91723 cell: (626)926-4131 email: gabrielenoindians@yahoo.com website: www.gabrielenoindians.org On October 30, 2016 the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians-Kizh Nation submitted a letter on the City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update regarding their ancestral and traditional territories that overlap with the City of Hermosa Beach Boundaries and requested that a tribal monitor is present during any ground disturbance activities associated with the project. The letter provided by the tribe may be found in Appendix H, which is on record with the City of Hermosa Beach, but kept confidential to comply with AB 52 and protect the confidential information provided by California Native American Tribes. • • • • This page intentionally left blank. Attachment 1A • • Attachment 1A TRIBES Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians—Kizh Nation Comment # Response GBMI-1 The commenter summarizes information about the ancestral and traditional territories of the Kizh villages such as Engnovangan, and has included an excerpt from a 1978 publication about the Gabrieleno. The Draft EIR (p. 4.4-2) notes the significance of this village in Hermosa Beach. The Draft EIR (Impacts 4.1-1 and 4.1-2 on pp. 4.4-10 through 4.4-12) evaluated the potential for implementation of PLAN Hermosa to adversely affect Native American resources and human remains. As stated on page 4.4-11, no known archaeological resources (historic or prehistoric) have been recorded within the city. The Draft EIR noted that these findings, however, do not preclude the possibility of encountering undiscovered archaeological resources during construction, given the proven prehistoric and historic occupation of the region, the identification of surface and subsurface archaeological resources near the PLAN Hermosa planning area (e.g., Old Salt Lake and CA -LAN -1872), and the favorable natural conditions (e.g., Pacific Ocean) that would have attracted prehistoric and historic inhabitants to the area. In addition to the specific examples cited by the commenter for a project in Los Angeles and Hawaiian Gardens, the archaeological monitoring of numerous construction projects throughout the region in recent decades has demonstrated the existence of deeply buried archaeological deposits, especially in locations of rapid Holocene deposition such as alluvial fans. The Draft EIR (p. 4.4-12) also noted that the discovery of Native American human remains, including cases of multiple burials, is not uncommon in the region (e.g., Malaga Cove). As noted in response NAHC-1, the City is proposing to amend implementation action LAND USE -21 to more explicitly detail the tribal consultation process and include direction as to when a Native American monitor would be required to be present on-site during ground disturbance activities. This implementation action, as amended, would ensure the consultation requirements of AB 52 are followed by the City as the lead agency and that requirements are clear related to the presence of Native American monitors during ground -disturbing activities in which a tribe or archaeological investigation indicate the potential for tribal resources to be found. GBMI-2 As described on page 4.4-5 in Section 4.4, Cultural Resources, in the Draft EIR, the City requested consultation with Native American tribes in compliance with SB 18 in January 2015 and again under AB 52 in August 2015. The City notified all of the relevant tribal organizations identified by the Native American Heritage Commission for the City of Hermosa Beach. In a letter dated May 19, 2014, the NAHC provided a list of the tribes that claim traditional or cultural affiliation with the area surrounding Hermosa Beach, including the Gabrieleno/Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe, Gabrielino Band of Mission Indians, and Gabrielino/Tongva Nation. All of the groups identified by the NAHC will continue to be notified of projects in Hermosa Beach and offered an opportunity to consult with the City in accordance with AB 52. • • This page intentionally left blank. Attachment 1A Attachment 1A INDIVIDUALS Attachment 1A • • Carbon Neutral • steve adler� Thu 11/24/2016 12:17 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A Dear Council -members Upon reviewing the general plan towards the goal of becoming "carbon neutral" I am pleased that you have taken a thoughtful approach to this endeavor. However, after my review I find this far beyond the scope of your elected positions to ratify any part of this proposal without asking the community for permission. Additionally, I would like to know what benefit the City of Hermosa would have for being the "1st" to be carbon neutral? 1. Do we receive tax benefits for implementing this plan? 2. Do the savings offset the expense of implementing this plan? If so, how many years will it take? 3. If there are no financial benefits to going carbon neutral why purchase carbon offsets? 4. If we have the money for carbon offsets wouldn't that money be more beneficial to the environment if we promoted worthy environmental causes? For example: we could promote the need thatwe as consumers actually consume less. Clearly it is better for the environment over all to use a gasoline powered car until it no longer can be used... rather than turning the car in and purchasing an electric car. If you wish I can provide many studies that speak to over consumption with regards to autos, computers, phones etc. As stated before, I applaud all of you for undertaking this lofty goal, however, I believe many of your suggestions should be open to a vote and not dictated by our City Council. Thank you jer • ADLS -1 comments on carbon neutrality Peggy Barr Thu 11/17/2016 3:44 PM Attachment 1A To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Marie Rice <marierice@gmail.com>; Mike Flaherty <mikeflaherty2010@gmail.com>; Peter Hoffman <phoffman@Imu.edu>; Rob Saemann <rsgcl@aol.com>; David Pedersen <dpedersen@hermosabch.org>; Councilmember Carolyn Petty <cpetty@hermosabch.org>; Councilmember Jeff Duclos <jduclos@hermosabch.org>; Mayor Hany Fangary <hfangary@hermosabch.org>; Mayor Pro Tern Justin Massey <jmassey@hermosabch.org>; Councilmember Stacey Armato <sarmato@hermosabch.org>; City Clerk <cityclerk@hermosabch.org>; John Jalili <jjalili@hermosabch.org>; 11/17/2016 RE: Carbon Neutrality/EIR Enough is Enough! There have been 4 "studies" on the feasibility of Hermosa Beach becoming Carbon Neutral. And in •October the council approved yet another $7500 for an additional study...when all of the 4 previous ones came to a similar conclusion: The only way to be Carbon Neutral is to either purchase carbon offset credits or produce renewable energy in order to offset emissions. Neither of these options is a sound management or fiscal decision. First of all, purchasing carbon offset credits (RECs) is NOT being carbon neutral {EIR 4.6-15): Just by merely purchasing RECs you can't create CLEANER energy or CLEANER air. RECs do nothing to actually lower greenhouse gases (GHG) but merely shift money from the city to the pockets of the brokers representing Carbon Neutrality or CCAs, who are usually the consultants pushing this agenda on cities. RECs are merely deals on paper that cost Hermosa Beach taxpayers more money. Secondly, producing renewable energy on our own (thru a CCA) is not sound judgement. There is no guarantee that the energy we will generate/receive will be any more renewable or CLEANER than what we already receive from SCE. SCE is currently regulated by the state and federal governments to have CLEANER/RENEWABLE energy. The most recent statistics I was able to find for SCE were from 2014 and it is required to increase yearly -in 2014 we received 27% CLEAN energy and 24% RENEWABLE. [source: 2014 Power Content Label - Southern California Edison] 5The actual break down looked like this: 27% is CLEAN 33% is moderately CLEAN BARP -1 BARP -2 12/5/2016 comments on carbon neutrality - Leeann Singleton 40% is unspecified***** And 24% of this power is RENEWABLE • BARP -2 ***** My understanding of the definition of unspecified, includes things they can't really measure, like th Cony input onto the grid of the CLEAN solar power that our household and many others generate. Attachment 1A So far I have only been addressing the Hermosa Beach City as its own entity. But if the EIR is passed to include "community wide carbon neutrality" {EIR 6.0-9, 6.0-10} Hermosa Beach residents and taxpayers are due to see huge increases in costs with instituting : - the establishment of greenhouse gas impact fees {EIR 4.6-16} which will drive up the cost of development -ultimately passed on to us as consumers. -the requirement to install renewable energy projects on homes and businesses, mandating retrofits to existing buildings to improve energy efficiency {EIR 4.6-13} -costing the homeowners money and again ultimately the business passing the cost onto consumers. -the elimination of the use of natural gas within the city -new modified parking standards to disincentive gasoline powered cars, making it more onerous and/or expensive to park — ultimately driving down our tax base from businesses. We cannot have these provisions hard coded as part of our General Plan, providing the foundation ffuture policies. If we do we are just setting ourselves up for misery, bankruptcy, a decrease in our Amoruality of life and worst of all an infringement on personal property rights. I reiterate... Enough is Enough! Please consider your decision thoroughly; it affects everyone for generations to come! Peggy Barr • BARP -3 PLAN Hermosa DEIR Comments • Claudia Berman Mon 1/2/2017 3:41 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A Here are a few comments for the PLAN Hermosa DIER related to the Carbon Neutrality topic: • Are the assumptions made on today's technology or do you factor in technological changes that may occur over the next 20+ years? It's my understanding that they are based on today's technology. Therefore, please specify that clearly upfront. • 1 found the comparisons between the PLAN and State requirements confusing. It would be good to have some type of table so that people can compare the PLAN options to State requirements. I did a quick table of an example. The EIR should have something like this and have a clearer statement of how we line up to the State requirements. It took me many hours to realize that PLAN Hermosa end date of 2040 is in line with California's current requirements. BERC-1 Thank you, Claudia Berman Carbon Reduction % 2005 Level 2020 2030 2040 2050 California -15 -49 -80 Hermosa Sustainabity Project 2011 -15 PLAN Hermosa Carbon Neutrality PLAN end date 2040 -66 PLAN Hermosa Carbon Neutrality Goal 2 @ 2030 -66 PLAN Hermosa Project Alternative 2020 -66 Thank you, Claudia Berman Attachment 1A Plan Hermosa Meeting tonight and Palo Alto to get $1 million Robert Fortunato Mon 11/21/2016 12:32 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Peter Hoffman <phoffman@hermosabch.org>; Michael Flaherty <MFlaherty@hermosabch.org>; Rob Saemann <rsaemann@hermosabch.org>; Marie Rice <mrice@hermosabch.org>; David Pedersen <dpedersen@hermosabch.org>; Cc:City Council <citycouncil@hermosabch.org>; Elaine Doerfling <edoerfling@hermosabch.org>; City Clerk - Would you please forward this email to the Planning commission and I ask that this email be included as a supplemental Dear Honorable Planning Commissioners and Staff, Thank you for all the good work you are doing on Plan Hermosa. I know you are aware of the importance of this plan in setting the course for the city in the coming decades. While reviewing Plan Hermosa you will inevitably get questions as to why we are pursuing a carbon neutrality goal. If health of our residents, sustainability of our environment and disaster preparedness are not compelling enough reasons, than the economics should be. Plan Hermosa was partially funded by $410K from the Strategic Growth Council because we are pursuing the goal of Carbon Neutrality. 1103 Many other initiative have been and will be funded because we differentiate ourselves from competing cities by aspiring to this Carbon Neutral oal. A recent example is the UCLA -MBA study where a group of local residents who are working toward their MBA heard about our Carbon neutral goal and are doing a business plan for our city that is conservatively valued at $160,000 for $7,500. By keeping this ambitious goal at the forefront of our consciousness, we can help the city be more efficient in its operations and better for our residents - while getting funding to help our local economy. As you can see in the email below, Palo Alto, who has a similar Carbon Neutral goal, just recently got $1 million to study how to reduce traffic. Please support an aggressive Carbon Neutral 2030 goal for our city and let me know let me know if you have any question or concerns. Respectfully, Robert Fortunato Forwarded message From: City of Palo Alto<citvofpaloaltoPservice.govdelivery,com> Date: Thu, Nov 17, 2016 at 4:39 PM Subject: Climate Action: Taking Our Next Big Step -- 80 x 30! To: FORR -1 • • • N °MASeirB1061A Climate Action: Taking our Next Big Step Palo Alto: Designing Our Path to 2030 Palo Alto has long been ahead of the pack in sustainability, adopting one of the first municipal climate action plans in the U.S. in 2007, delivering carbon neutral electricity, and partnering with our community to develop a vision for an innovative, carbon neutral city of the future. Poised to take the next step as a climate and sustainability leader - with one of the boldest municipal climate goals in the country...[Read More...] B RT Regional Consortium Wins $1 Million Federal Grant for Technology-based Commute Alternatives One of the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan's (S/CAP) key focus areas is to rethink mobility. Road transportation represents about 61% of Palo Alto's carbon footprint. Last month, the City of Palo Alto, as part of a regional consortium of stakeholders, won a $1 million federal grant for a demonstration project to reduce single - occupant vehicle driving from 75 percent to 50 percent in the Bay area. [Read Morel Palo Alto and Sustainability News of interest • Governor Brown signs major climate bill. requiring the state to reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 • City of Palo Alto received the 2016 California Energy Efficiency Industry Council Energy Champion Award, in recognition for adopting a new Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Ready "Reach Code", which goes into effect January 1. 2017 • The second phase of the Cool Block pilot program is about to get underway and additional neighborhood blocks are invited to participate • Palo Alto and leading U.S. cities partner on guidelines for smart cities to ensure the responsible and equitable deployment of smart city technologies • City of Palo Alto Utilities ranks in the national top 10 for most solar watts per customer Council Adopts 80 x 30 Goal and Framework for Climate Action Plan The City Council adopted the general framework of the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) at its meeting on Monday, April 18, which identifies a Greenhouse Gas Emissions reduction goal of 80 percent by 2030. [Read More] Get Involved. S/CAP at the next City Council Meeting on November 28th. On Monday, November 28th, the City Council will meet to review the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) and decide upon formal adoption of the plan. The agenda for the meeting will be posted here. As always, you're invited and welcome to share your perspectives (just be sure to fill out a comment card). Share Your Priorities for 2017 with Palo Alto City Council What are the priorities you would like to see the Palo Alto City Council adopt in 2017? You are invited to share your thoughts on Open City Hall. [Read more] • Considering Solar? Sign UD now to take advantage of Palo Alto's Current Net Metering program. Attachment 1A For more timely sustainability news and updates... ...follow Chief Sustainability Officer Gil Friend on Twitter @PaloAltoCSO The City has a variety of e -news topics that may be of interest to you. Join other e -news topics, update your subscriptions, modify your password or e- mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Parte. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact subscriberhelp.govdeliverv.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by the City of Palo Alto. This email was sent to using GovDelivery, on behalf of: City of Palo Alto • 250 Hamilton Ave • Palo Alto, CA 94301 • 650 - Robert Fortunato President www.ForStrategv.com Our commitment to leadership, innovation and sustainability is reflected in our Green Idea House "Don't be put off by people who know what Is not possible. Do what needs to be done, and check to see if it was impossible only after you are done" - Paul Hawken Powered by GovDelivery HB Planning Commission - PLAN EIR -11/21/2016 - D. Grethen • (Comments in bold italics. Introductory/background info in plain text) • Attachment 1A Figure 4.6-3 is a useful way to depict state -driven carbon reduction goals and measures as related to local neutrality goals, as well as potential offsets. But the following accompanying description of may need to be even more precisely explained to be more clear to describe how the numbers add up. Per report: "As depicted in Figure 4.6-3 (Emissions Reductions Needed to Meet State and Local Targets), the impact of state legislation on local emissions in 2040 would leave a remaining gap of 48,800 MTCO2e to be reduced by local policy to achieve state goals and a remaining gap of 95,420 MTCO2e to achieve a carbon neutral goal by 2040 as proposed in the draft of PLAN Hermosa." More significantly, the following questions associated with Figure 4.6-3 should be addressed: • Why does state legislation need to be augmented by local policy to meet state goals? • Why is state legislation insufficient to meet state goals? • Is there something specific about Hermosa Beach that results in state legislation not being sufficient for Hermosa Beach to not meet state goals? These insights might help the city better understand its challenges, regulatory role, and degree of local initiative necessary to achieve carbon reduction goals. Figure 4.6-3 and its accompanying discussion also indicate the following conclusions, which could imply large environmental impacts: • The city will already be significantly challenged to meet state goals through local measures beyond what will be driven by state legislation (this is indicated by the size of the blue shaded region of the figure compared to the size of the pink shaded region) • The city will be greatly additionally challenged in order to achieve full carbon neutrality beyond what it must do to meet the state goals, with neutrality approximately doubling the size of the total challenge (this is apparent since the size of the green shaded region is roughly the size of the blue shaded region) The subsection underlined as "Renewable Energy Generation" on Page 4.6-21 highlights how renewable energy may be generated for local use in the following ways, some local and some remote: • Installations on homes and businesses (local) • Carbon neutral municipal facilities (local) • Locations appropriate for additional renewable energy technologies and to GRED1-1 GRED1-2 Attachment 1A "allow by right" (local) • • Community choice aggregation (CCA - remote) The decision to use remotely- versus locally -generated renewable energy to achieve carbon reductions will be a large determinant of impacts to the local environment, residents, and businesses. Rough order of magnitude estimates for potential land use impacts should be provided for scenarios where municipal (and entire community) carbon reduction/neutrality goals are met by use of local solar energy to fully supply the total kW -hr energy needs every day, plus any additional renewable energy generation needed in lieu of purchasing carbon offsets (e.g. Alternative 2). The estimates should specify the following for both the municipality and entire community: • Total land/mounting area to achieve municipal (and community) carbon neutrality with all electricity generated locally for solar. • Total available rooftop mounting area on municipal (and community residential/business) buildings • Amount of additional land/mounting area that would be needed to be provided in municipal (and community) open spaces This would provide an initial feasibility assessment for local solar and help determine whether most of the city's renewable energy is likely to be locally generated, or whether we would heavily rely on remotely located sources (e.g. via CCA). This could also provide further insight about potential local impacts such as glare and ability to preserve local city character. Additionally, it should also be identified what specific locations in the city might be "appropriate for additional renewable energy technologies" and where they might be "allowed by right" as stated on Page 4.6-21. The availability of locations would determine feasibility or whether land use modification impacts occur. The city is already well developed and rather dense. Fuel consumption Table 4.13-7 includes electric vehicle electricity use in kW -hr, as well as assumed fuel efficiencies. The basis for the electric vehicle use estimate should be supported clarified including the following: • Which corresponding level of carbon reduction this usage supports (full neutrality vs. 66% of 2005 levels • Fraction and amount of increase in the fraction of citywide vehicles that are GRED1-2 cont. GRED1-3 Attachment 1A electric (extent of gasoline vehicle replacement assumed or needed) • • Anything else that might better relate this table to the GHG Section 4.6 of EIR • These estimates would help to better understand the amount of supporting infrastructure needed (e.g. charging stations and parking area) and potential resident impacts (e.g. home electricity and vehicle replacement) The basis for the 77 mpg fuel efficiency estimate should be described and supported. The accuracy of fuel efficiency forecasts directly affects carbon emissions predictions. Fuel efficiency could also determine the extent of conversion to electric vehicles driven based on how it motivates vehicle owners. GHG mitigation measures MM4.6-1 a, b, and c call an active/adaptive management approach for tracking progress towards state carbon reductions goals, potentially including regulatory corrective measures. Mitigation measures potentially resulting in regulation to meet state -driven carbon reduction goals may be appropriate if necessary to assure legal compliance, but would not be appropriate to meet local voluntary goals for complete carbon neutrality. The proposed mitigations listed above seem to be consistent with state goals and measures (legislation and orders). Section 6.0.5 entitled "Environmentally Superior Alternative" identifies the Character Retention alternative as environmentally superior to the other alternatives presented, including 2030 Carbon Neutrality. Among the alternatives presented, I would not object to Character Retention Alternative 3. I do not support the 2030 Carbon Neutrality Alternative 2. Alternative 2 in Section 6 is defined by two simultaneous changes to the baseline (acceleration to 2030 and no carbon offset purchases) whose respective impacts are not at all readily distinguishable in the report. The lack of distinction also hinders public discourse in this area. The report needs to better distinguish between the impacts of acceleration to 2030, versus the effects of not allowing carbon offset purchases, perhaps by adding a column to an existing table, or with a new table. • Table 6.0-4 compares carbon reductions for the 2040 versus 2030 (with offsets) scenarios. The most glaring difference between the scenarios is seen by GRED1-3 cont. GRED1-4 GRED1-5 GRED1-6 • Attachment 1A comparing the `Community Solar' and `Purchase Offsets' line items in the table. The main difference in HOW the carbon goals are met between the two scenarios is that the offsets in 2040 are roughly exchanged for a large increase in local energy generation. This is a large impact to land use, with other impacts such as glare and aesthetics also identified in the report. Note: This also relates to other comments provided about land and solar area. Section 6 includes impacts for each environmental area including Land Use Planning on Page 6.0-22. Why is there no discussion under Land Use Planning for Alternative 2 given that elsewhere in the report it is shown that the amount of local energy generation needed would increase by a factor of about 5x? Please include in Land Use section or elsewhere in the report if more appropriate. Additionally, Page 6-35 states as follows (underline added here): "Alternative 2 could pose greater impacts to aesthetics and biological resources due to increased use of renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, or ocean -based renewable energy sources, and greater impacts to cultural resources due to greater alteration or demolition of designated or potentially eligible historic resources to construct high energy performance buildings. While the impacts to aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources may be greater than with PLAN Hermosa, it is unknown whether they would rise to the level of being considered a significant impact, because the specific design and location of additional renewable energy projects cannot be determined at this time" The above underlined excerpt seems to limit the depth of certain impact assessments in a way that is not very satisfying. That is why the solar scenario calculations are requested per other comments provided here. I can see how ocean wave/tidal technology may not yet be so well understood, but solar is. Section 6 includes Alternative 2 for 2030 Carbon Neutrality, which means the community has 14 years, not 24 years to reach neutrality after 2016. The rate of carbon reductions, based on the amount of reduction and reduced length of time to achieve, would be additionally challenging and likely especially impacting since the amount of time to meet goals is reduced by a factor of about 1.7x. Given the amount of reduction to achieve carbon neutrality is about 2x what is needed by city initiatives beyond state goals and measures (Fig. 4.6-3), this means carbon reduction must occur at a rate of nearly 4x what might normally be needed based on state measures. GRED1-6 cont. GRED1-7 GRED1-8 Attachment 1A Alternative 2 in Sec 6 identifies impacts including the following effects on residences. • Replacement of gas heating systems, water heaters, and stoves • Expense and delays to retrofit their homes for energy purposes prior to sale (unless onus for upgrades could be placed on homebuyer after sale) • Home electrical system impacts for electric vehicle charging. If homeowners lose discretion in the way they manage their property, this could have adverse environmental impacts. For example, if replacements or changes to home appliances, utility infrastructure, or building conversions are mandated to occur before these resources have exhausted their naturally useful lifetimes, there would be environmental impacts associated with the prematurely generated wastes. • • GRED1-9 • PLAN EIR - Additional Grethen Comments HB PLAN EIR Comments (Transportation/General) - Dec 2016 - D. Grethen (Comments/Recommendations in bold italics. Introductory/background info in plain text) Attachment 1A Transportation: Tabulated data along with Figs 4.14-8 and -9 indicate worsening traffic levels or service (LOS) for 2040 including PCH, Artesia, Aviation, Prospect, and Manhattan Avenue. Accompanying discussion indicates reasons why the impacts are expected to be significant and unavoidable, emphasizing limitations of potential mitigation measures. But it was not clearly certain just what is the root cause of the LOS degradation impacts. Is it mostly driven by the identified planned elimination of a lane of traffic in each direction of PCH in Hermosa Beach? Or is it more driven by other factors, such as increased regional traffic through Hermosa Beach, (e.g. more Redondo residents using Prospect)? Please provide an enhanced analytical explanation of reasons for degraded LOS in Hermosa Beach, espedallyfor those roadways where LOS is as low as D or E (or even C), including on Prospect General: As a general EIR comment, it would be good if more explanations could be provided about what are the driving causes for environmental differences due to the PLAN (or between now and 2040). The comment above about LOS is a specific example that spurred this general comment. Throughout the EIR as a goal and to the extent practical, please attempt include more insight about reasons for results, notjust stating the results and showing the supporting data. Such insights and identification of root causes might be useful to guide additional future analyses and efforts to seek mitigation. If this info is in certain appendices, perhaps add references to those. • • GRED 2-1 Comments; EIR / City Planning Commission Art Krugler Sun 12/4/2016 8:28 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; From; Arthur H Krugler, Professional Chemical and Mechanical Engineer. Forty years of experience in power generation and fuels; 26 years in process plant engineering. Attendee and speaker @ Nov. 21 hearing - invited by Tracy Hopkins. Provided copies of my booklet; POLAR BEARS IN THE HOT SEAT; CO2 and Global Warming You commission members impressed me with your attention to the EIR and the speakers; And also your understanding of the magnitude of the EIR proposals. My comments as an observer: 1 The elephant in the room is the State Mandate on Carbon Neutrality; the Clean Power Plan. This could force major and expensive changes on the city and residents. I do not see enough information of how self -generation of power could save so much money. "A pessimist is someone who has financed an optimist". Ozone and Methane rules are also significant. •My handout, "POLAR BEARS IN THE HOT SEAT; .. " is a condensation of years of study. es, NOAA data shows a sudden warming of the small North Pole area which started in 1980. see pages 1 and 20. I am neither denier, nor acceptor, nor challenger of modelers but a careful analyzer of data. Attachment 1A 3 Ice core data shows our planet had started the cool down portion of the 110,000 year cycle ( see pages 1 and 19) some 10,000 years ago. Magma activity, ( volcanoes and undersea vents) has caused a 35 year long 10 degree rise at the North Pole temperature, which is very likely ending. Earthquake activity near the North Pole, responding to Magma movement, increased in 1970 and has abruptly stopped. The North Pole ice could return very quickly. 4 CO2 levels will continue to rise along with the increased use of natural gas fuel but temperatures will cool. 5 I expect to see many news reports thisyear and next like those in the LA Times today, Sunday Dec 4; Page A-20 'Aloha, Old Man Winter; Hawaii peaks get 2 feet of snow"-lastyear had none' Page B-5; "Water year is off to a.good start"; Northern Sierra Nevada sees wettest fall since 1984', 200% above average. Expect snow storms and floods in Central and Eastern US. Cold arctic air meets warm humid Caribbean air with predictable results. An 'ice age' requires heavy snowfall for many years to create the thick ice layer. However, LA Times front page news continues; Page A-19 - Opinion; "OUR REPUBLIC OF CLIMATE"; 'California is a role model leading the nation - and even the world'. Actually, we need to develop and install a new generation of nuclear plants to provide the power for desalination and heating in this cold world as well as the ever increasing energy uses. Energy efficiency and alternate sources where economical are excellent also. Leaving fossil fuel in the ground will also leave the asphalt we need to replace roads and roofs. Arthur H Krugler Should any of you commissioners be interested in further discussion, I am available 24/7. Ilkurther bio information is available @ IKRUA -1 KRUA -2 Untitled • G &J Moriyama Sat 11/19/2016 1:46 AM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A This carbon neutrality business is a bunch of bologna. I MORG-1 • City owned building Prospect and 6th St. • Fri 11/18/2016 1:52 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A I have read the PLAN Hermosa draft and the General Plan and see references to maintenance and upgrades to City facilities, parks, etc. The structures in the City yard are referenced and I agree, they are in dire need of renovation. There is a building being used for storage next to Ft. Lots of Fun at 6th and Prospect. It has been allowed to deteriorate and is now an eyesore and a blight in our neighborhood. It is not in an industrial area - it is in a residential neighborhood with children, homes, dogs, parks, etc. and as such, is a HIGHLY VISIBLE structure. I do not see this building referenced in any of the documents under review. I invite you to do a driveby, take a look and tell me if you agree or disagree that this structure Speeling, cracked stucco, mold and mildew growing up the sides.) should be a HIGH PRIORITY item. I guarantee you that no one in City government would want this structure in its condition in their neighborhood. I am asking that language be included in the planning documents that specifically references this building just as Clark Stadium, 8th Street, Plaza, fire station, library and other sites are referenced. Since this building has some historical significance (it was originally a school), perhaps it could be painted with one of the lovely murals I see in the downtown area, showing children playing and arriving for school as they would have back in 1925 when it was constructed. If there is another channel I should use to bring this to the attention of those who could bring about this request, please give me that information and I will pursue the issue further. "Vette Mower • MOWB -1 • • • From: Jens Palsberg Attachment 1A Date: November 20, 2016 at 4:41:54 PM PST To: Peter Hoffman <phoffman@hermosabch.org>, Michael Flaherty <mflaherty@hermosabch.org>, Rob Saemann <rsaemann@hermosabch.org>, Marie Rice <mrice@hermosabch.org>, David Pedersen <dpedersen@hermosabch.org> Subject a carbon neutral community Dear Members of the Hermosa Beach Planning Commission, Peter Hoffman, Michael Flaherty, Rob Saemann, Marie Rice, and David Pedersen, Thank you for all you do for Hermosa Beach. I like PLAN Hermosa, which spells out worthwhile opportunities and has a forward-looking approach. I am particularly excited about the vision of a carbon neutral community. This vision attracted me and my UCLA Executive MBA team to do our final project on aspects of the vision, as detailed in the attached plan. The Hermosa Beach City Council voted in favor of the project on September 28, 2016. The project will run from January to June 2017. I believe that PLAN Hermosa's vision of a carbon neutral community will continue to garner interest and excitement in the future. Sincerely, Jens Palsberg Professor, UCLA Computer Science Department General Plan Air Quality Section • Ken Sarno Wed 11/2/2016 3:06 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A The refineries surrounding us should not be omitted from the air quality section of the plan. The particulates and gasses emitted during surprise flares and other unanticipated refinery events in Torrance and El Segundo definitely lower the air quality in surrounding cities. To what extent and for how long our city's air quality is affected would vary depending on the nature and duration of the event. The problem is, we never know what the effects are because the refineries certainly won't tell us and we don't measure or analyze the air ourselves. In addition, low -probability but very deadly refinery emergencies related to the use of acid catalysts could require a rapid response by the city to minimize injury and loss of life. While this could be classified more as an emergency -preparedness issue than a matter of air quality, it underscores the need to continuously monitor our own air for sudden changes, using city - controlled and calibrated equipment. It also reinforces the dual threats posed by regional tefrneries. The general plan should affirmatively recognize these threats (as should the planning of all nearby cities) and not just rest on regional trends and averages. Therefore the plan should incorporate: -- City -owned and observed air monitoring equipment -- Enhanced city relationship with AQMD and other regulatory agencies -- Involvement by the city in efforts to mitigate or remove refinery risks by both community groups and other neighbor city governments. Ken Sarno Sent from AOL Mobile Mail SARK -1 SARK -2 Carbon neutrality • Heather Schneider Fri 12/2/2016 3:01 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A It is very very rare that I send comments to the city council, but I feel so strongly that I had to send this email. While we all need to do our part for the environment, I am strongly against Hemosa's proposed plan for Carbon Neutrality. I am against Hermosa buying carbon offsets. I am against the elimination of the use of natural gas. What is the proposed alternative? I am against establishing a CCA. Putting requirements on new building is one thing, but to mandate retrofits to existing buildings is not ok. We have all lived in Hermosa for many many years and now you want to change the rules. All of these things will increase costs to home owners, prohibitively for many. How about going with a more positive approach of passing on savings and benefits to people who voluntarily make the proposed changes to their home, not penalizing others who don't. Sincerely, Heather Schneider Hermosa resident • • SCHH- 1 Attachment 1A NO 100% Carbon Neutrality 110 Pam T Mon 12/5/2016 8:25 AM This is my letter to the Beach Reporter: Unless the HB Council can be convinced otherwise, it is about to adopt PLAN HERMOSA's general plan which includes making Hermosa Beach 100% Carbon Neutral. I feel the City Council is over stepping its authority and infringing on my Constitutional and Property Rights. While "Going Green" should be encouraged, it should not be mandatory. A big step to that plan is changing to Community Choice Aggregation for our energy source. It is an expensive undertaking and not without risks. The PLAN would mandate expensive retrofits on new construction, rebuilds and selling a home. It even effects what kind of car you drive. If compliance is not met, one must pay a penalty (yet to be determined) in the form of credits to offset emissions. Residents have no vote in the matter. I feel that it is irresponsible of the Council to agree on such an extreme PLAN which will likely have negative impact on our property values. Kudos to HB Planning Commissioner Rob Saemann, for his common sense presentation at the last Council Meeting. Here is the link: httos://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5Jr eiKQUY&t=26s PLAN HERMOSA seems determined on being "the first" to be Carbon Neutral. Our 1.4 sq. miles won't be a speck in the Global Carbon Footprint. Unless, you are competing in the Olympics or sports event, I don't see the need to be "first". You can learn a lot by others mistakes. It is time for PLAN HERMOSA to re-evaluate its PLAN. I LOVE Hermosa Beach, but dislike the radical direction it is headed. As the old saying goes, "If it isn't broken, don't fix it". • Pam Tatreau Hermosa Beach • TATP 1-1 Carbon Neutrality S Pam T Sat 12/31/2016 9:01 AM Attachment 1A PLAN HERMOSA is a group of individuals faced with determining and planning the future of H.B. I applaud their efforts to improve the health and environment of our city. However, I do NOT feel the "Carbon Neutrality" should be a part of that plan. Mandating expensive retrofits to new construction, rebuilds and selling a home is too extreme. "Carbon Neutrality" is better suited to a newly planned community where homes are built with solar panels and electrical appliances. People moving into that community are aware that there may be restrictions placed on the vehicles they drive. A BIG step in the "Carbon Neutrality Plan" is changing to Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) for our energy source. Itis an expensive undertaking and not without risks. Even our City Planners raised some valid concerns. "Carbon Neutrality" is too extreme for our little beach community and should be revised or deleted from the Plan. I feel that"Carbon Neutrality" is the goal of a few people and NOT the goal of the residents. Changes of this magnitude should NOT be decided by a few people. Why must residents try to convince the City Council not to support these changes? Many residents are still unaware of these changes which are about to affect their daily lives. If you really wanted to know how residents felt, you would not be afraid to put the measures on a ballot for a vote. I am beginning to lose faith in our community. I thought that I still lived in a democracy or is my beloved Hermosa Beach turning into a dictatorship? Thank you for your time. Pam Tatreau Hermosa Beach • • TATP 2-2 Feedback on PLAN Hermosa • Coco Tuttle Mon 12/12/2016 5:32 PM To:Leeanne Singleton <generalplan@hermosabch.org>; Attachment 1A Hello. My name is Coco Larson -Tuttle and my husband is Bruce Tuttle. We live at 1139 7th Place, Hermosa Beach. My husband is handicapped (visually impaired and in a wheelchair). I wanted to be sure that handicapped access is addressed in the general plan. Currently there are limited access streets that are safe for wheel chair travel and only a few streets (PCH) that have audible alarms for crossing at lights. I would implore the city to consider handicapped people when decisions regarding the general plan are being made. Thank you, Coco Larson -Tuttle Sent from my iPad • TUTC -1 • • • Attachment 1A INDIVIDUALS Comment # Response Steve Adler ADLS-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. It is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. The specific questions raised by the commenter do not require further consideration for purposes of the EIR's evaluation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions impacts but are addressed in a separate document that will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council to consider incorporating into PLAN Hermosa. Peggy Barr BARP-1 This comment addresses PLAN Hermosa Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 1.4 (carbon offsets as needed), which appears on page 4.6-15 in the Draft EIR. The commenter suggests "purchasing carbon offset credits (RECs) is not carbon neutral." It should be noted that "RECs" are not the same as carbon offsets; an REC is a renewable energy certificate. Neither PLAN Hermosa nor the Draft EIR refer to RECs. Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, evaluates the ability of PLAN Hermosa to reduce community GHG emissions to meet statewide GHG reduction goals, equivalent to 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040, the threshold of significance used in the analysis. While this section of the Draft EIR identifies carbon offsets as a strategy to meet a local carbon neutral goal by 2040, carbon offsets are not necessary, nor are they included in the analysis showing how the City will meet the long-term state goals. BARP-2 In addition to general policy comments on carbon neutrality, the commenter expresses an opinion about the production of renewable energy or participation in a Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), stating there is no guarantee that the energy the City will generate or receive will be any more renewable or cleaner than what is already received from Southern California Edison (SCE). The commenter also provides a summary of SCE's power content mix in 2014, stating that 27 percent is dean, 33 percent is moderately clean, 40 percent is unspecified, and 24 percent of the power is renewable. The Draft EIR's GHG emissions analysis considered the emissions generated by SCE's current electricity mix, the effect of state legislation such as the Renewables Portfolio Standard (requiring 50 percent renewables by 2030), and the potential GHG reductions that would be achieved through implementation of a future CCA program, increased local renewable energy generation, and improved energy efficiency. Because the exact effect of each strategy on reducing GHG emissions cannot be determined until specific details of each program and policy are determined by the City Council and programs are implemented, the Draft EIR recommends three GHG-related mitigation measures: re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress every five years at a minimum • • • Attachment 1A (mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b) and revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan should the City determine that Hermosa Beach is not on track to achieve the applicable state GHG reduction goals. BARP-3 The commenter expresses an opinion about the effects that a carbon neutrality goal will have on residents and taxpayers with regard to specific policies contained in PLAN Hermosa. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. The specific comments do not require further consideration for purposes of the EIR's evaluation of GHG emissions impacts, but are provided for consideration by the City Council and Planning Commission in their review and adoption of PLAN Hermosa. Claudia Berman BERC-1 The commenter suggested more detailed information regarding the technology assumptions used in the GHG emissions analysis should be provided to enhance the utility/readability of the Draft EIR, along with a table that compares PLAN Hermosa to the various GHG reduction goals set by local plans and state legislation. The Draft EIR has been revised to incorporate this information into Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions (see Chapter 3.0, Revisions to the Draft EIR). Robert Fortunato FORR-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. An attachment to the comment letter outlined the City of Palo Alto's Sustainability and Climate Action Plan efforts, which are informational but are not relevant to PLAN Hermosa or the adequacy of the analysis and conclusions in the Draft EIR. No further response is required, but the information will be provided to the Planning Commission and City Council for consideration. David Grethen GRED1-1 The commenter notes the usefulness of Figure 4.6-3 (Emissions Reductions Needed to Meet State and Local Targets) on page 4.6-20 in Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, in the Draft EIR, but suggests that the following questions should be addressed associated with the emissions reduction data presented in the figure: why does state legislation need to be augmented by local policy to meet state goals; why is state legislation insufficient to meet state goals; and Is there something specific about Hermosa Beach that results in state legislation not being sufficient to meet state goals? The commenter's questions are not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. However, the questions are relevant to the policy and decision-making process for local GHG reduction goals. These issues are addressed in a separate document and will be presented to the Planning Commission and City Council to consider their incorporation into PLAN Hermosa. GRED1-2 The commenter suggests that the decision to use remotely generated versus locally generated renewable energy to achieve carbon reductions will be a large determinant of impacts, and suggests that rough order -of -magnitude estimates to supply the total kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy needed, and any • • • Attachment 1A additional renewable energy generation needed to avoid purchasing offsets, should be provided to support the impact analysis. Draft EIR Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities, identifies the current and projected electricity use in Hermosa Beach, under a business -as -usual scenario and with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies. The table below illustrates the rough order of magnitude of renewable energy needed to offset electricity use (including electric vehicle charging). Electricity Use Only 2040 Business -as -Usual Scenario With Implementation of PLAN Hermosa Policies Residential (kWh) 54,696,400 33,363,500 Nonresidential (kWh) 55,142,800 40,102,000 Electric vehicle (kWh) — 9,959,700 Total electricity use (kWh) 109,839,200 83,425,200 Average kWh generated annually per kW of solar 1,488 1,488 kW solar needed 73,817 56,065 MW solar needed 73.82 56.07 kWh — kilowatt-hour; kW— kilowatt; MW — megawatt -- The business -as -usual scenario does not anticipate energy use by electric vehicles to be tracked separately or represent a significant portion of the electricity consumption. As indicated by the data, to offset all Hermosa Beach electricity use in 2040, with the implementation of other PLAN Hermosa policies to reduce electricity use (e.g., building codes and energy conservation programs), approximately 56 megawatts (MW) of solar electricity would need to be installed. The feasibility of solar energy to provide more than 50 MW of electricity can be roughly estimated using Google's Project Sunroof, an interactive web -based tool that estimates the technical solar potential of all buildings in a region or community. For Los Angeles County, as a whole, a rooftop is considered viable if it receives 75 percent or more of the maximum annual sun. In Hermosa Beach, approximately 77 percent of rooftops in the city are considered viable (Project Sunroof data explorer (October 2016) [https://www.google.com/get/ sunroof/data-explorer/). It should be noted that the Project Sunroof data only consider rooftops and do not consider parking lots or the potential use of roadways for solar energy generation. Additionally, Project Solar focuses only on solar and does not consider the potential of wind, tidal, or wave energy technologies to meet local electricity demand. If the City were to offset all emissions sources through the generation of renewable energy, it would take the equivalent of 390 million kWh annually or approximately 262 MW of solar capacity. Given the limited land area in • • • Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach, there is a higher likelihood that some of the energy would have to be generated outside of the city's boundaries to achieve this scenario. This analysis does not change the conclusions of the Draft EIR related to the feasibility of achieving GHG emissions reductions through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies because the capacity to generate energy locally was already considered in the analysis presented in the Draft EIR. Additionally, this analysis does not change the conclusions of the potential effects of Alternative 2 (2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative), included in Draft EIR Section 6.0, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, which indicates there could be potentially greater impacts associated with aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources due to increased renewable energy generation (locally or elsewhere). GRED1-3 The commenter suggests that additional context or information should be provided associated with Table 4.13-7 (Fuel Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential Under PLAN Hermosa), which is on page 4.13-62 in Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities, in the Draft EIR, specifically which corresponding level of carbon reduction this usage supports (full neutrality versus 66 percent of 2005 levels); fraction and amount of increase in the fraction of citywide vehicles that are electric; and anything else that might better relate this table to Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, in the Draft EIR. Table 4.13-7 was developed using the same assumptions used for the GHG emissions analysis in Section 4.6 in the Draft EIR, which shows that PLAN Hermosa will reduce emissions locally by at least 66 percent by 2040 and that achievement of carbon neutrality may occur through the purchase of offsets. By 2040 it is estimated that in Hermosa Beach approximately 75 percent of new vehicles will be electric or carbon -free vehicles, compared to approximately 5 percent in 2015. This information, along with all other assumptions associated with the calculation of energy or fuel use and GHG reductions, is also detailed in Appendix E-1 in the Draft EIR. As indicated in Table 4.13-7, the average fleet fuel efficiency is projected to be 55 miles per gallon by 2040; the projection is based on state and federal fuel efficiency standards. The reduction of transportation fuel consumed (77 percent) is a result of greater fuel efficiency from conventionally fueled vehicles, a reduction in overall vehicle miles traveled through land use changes, and a greater shift to electric vehicles. This information has been added to Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities (see Chapter 3.0, Revisions to the Draft EIR). GRED1-4 As noted in the commenter's letter, mitigation measures MM 4.6-1a, 1 b, and 1 c are intended to ensure consistency with the state's GHG reduction goals, which are based on the scientific consensus of the emissions reductions needed to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius. As articulated on page 4.6-17 in the Draft EIR, the City of Hermosa Beach has identified that the impact of PLAN Hermosa would be significant if it would generate GHG emissions that exceed long-term state targets, roughly equivalent to emissions that are 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040. The mitigation measures are focused on ensuring compliance with long-term GHG reduction goals that exceed state goals. If the City sets GHG reduction goals that exceed state goals, the City could establish additional monitoring mechanisms separate from the EIR. The comment does • • • Attachment 1A not change the analysis or conclusions of the EIR; therefore, no additional response is required. GRED1-5 This comment references Subsection 6.0.5, Environmentally Superior Alternative, of the Draft EIR, which identifies Alternative 3 (Character Retention Alternative) as the environmentally superior alternative. The commenter's preference for Alternative 3 is noted. The comment does not address the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. GRED1-6 The commenter suggests that a better distinction between the impacts of accelerating a carbon neutral goal to 2030 versus the effect of not allowing carbon offset purchases should be made in Alternative 2 (2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative). The commenter also suggests that an increase in local renewable energy generation would have impacts on land use that should be discussed in the environmental analysis of Alternative 2. Table 6.0-4 (Comparison of Emissions Reduction Scenarios 2030 vs. 2040), referenced by the commenter, illustrates the major changes in annual carbon reduction between the two scenarios presented under the Community Solar, Land Use and Transportation Alternatives, Additional Transportation Strategies, and Purchase Offsets categories. While it would be up to the City's decision -makers to determine exactly what policy direction should be explored in alternative scenarios, a scenario which accelerates carbon neutrality to 2030, but still includes the use of carbon offsets, would appear to be similar to the 2040 scenario already presented. A 2040 scenario that forgoes the use of carbon offsets would appear similar to the 2030 scenario, perhaps with slightly smaller reductions needed from the community solar strategy due to greater reductions from energy efficiency strategies. A rough order -of -magnitude analysis was presented in Response GRED1-2 to demonstrate the amount of renewable energy generation needed to meet various GHG reduction scenarios. The 2030 scenario presented as Alternative 2 in the Draft EIR assumes that 134 MW of solar, or other renewable energy production (wind, tidal, wave) equivalent to 200 million kWh annually, would be needed to achieve the resulting emissions reductions presented in Table 6.0-4. A large portion of this renewable energy has the potential to be generated locally, although the analysis indicates that some of this energy may be developed elsewhere, which may have potentially greater impacts on aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources, as noted in Responses GRED1-2 and GRED1-7. GRED1-7 This comment references the Land Use and Planning analysis for Alternative 2, which is on page 6.0-22 in the Draft EIR. The commenter notes that there is no discussion related to additional area needed for renewable energy generation and suggests that the analysis should be able to determine the potential impact of solar on certain resource areas, such as aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources. For the purposes of the EIR analysis, and in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Appendix G, the evaluation of land use impacts is limited to whether or not the action would physically divide an established community, or whether it would conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation. Because renewable energy resources such as solar and wind can already be accommodated on • • • Attachment 1A rooftops or parking lots, or can serve as shade structures as an accessory to the primary use of a property (described in Section 17.46.220 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code), there is limited potential for the development of these generally small-scale resources to prevent the primary function or use of a property that would alter established land use patterns. With regard to potential impacts from larger -scale solar development on aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources, these impacts are difficult to determine without having specific details on location (local or elsewhere), size (utility scale or distributed), or technology (ground- or roof - mounted, static or sun -tracking). In general, renewable energy projects vary in their impacts and mitigations with respect to biological resources and aesthetics. Some of the impacts identified in large renewable energy projects in the state have included loss of sensitive habitat, alteration of migration and wildlife movement, aesthetic impacts along scenic highways, and creation of new sources of light and glare. A detailed impact analysis for these topics for Alternative 2 would be speculative and is not required under CEQA (CEQA Guidelines Section 15145), and this level of detail is also not required for the alternatives analysis (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6). The Draft EIR (p. 6.0-35) does, however, conservatively conclude that impacts on aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources may be greater with Alternative 2 than with PLAN Hermosa. The level of detail for the impact assessments for Alternative 2 is sufficient for informed decision-making. For the reasons stated above, no additional analysis is possible or warranted at this time. GRED1-8 The commenter notes that the rate of carbon reductions needed to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 is nearly four times the rate of reductions needed to achieve state goals. This is a correct statement, but it is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. GRED1-9 The commenter suggests that Alternative 2 (2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative), and specifically the implementation of potential measures to replace gas heating appliances, retrofits to homes prior to sale, or addition of electric vehicle infrastructure, could have adverse environmental effects associated with waste generated due to equipment or building materials being replaced before these resources have exhausted their naturally useful lifetimes. Implementation of any policies related to GHG emissions reduction in the form of a legislative act or ordinance will require City Council approval and will include specific program details regarding the naturally useful lifetime of equipment, phased -in implementation, and other mechanisms to prevent the unnecessary disposal of materials or equipment. Additionally, the City of Hermosa Beach has several programs and requirements to ensure the proper disposal and handling of building materials and equipment to minimize environmental impacts. This includes a requirement that at least 50 percent of a building's demolition waste be recycled, and programs/events such as the Household Hazardous Waste collection. GRED2-1 The projected increase in regional population and employment from Hermosa Beach and other nearby cities by 2040 would lead to increased numbers of vehicle trips in Hermosa Beach unless changes to the land use and transportation system are implemented. When combined with the fact that • Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach has little or no capacity within the right-of-way to expand vehicular facilities, the result is a degradation in the level of service at Artesia and Aviation boulevards and Prospect and Manhattan avenues. At most of the study intersections, PLAN Hermosa actually leads to improved LOS when compared to 2040 conditions without the project. For those locations where capacity is insufficient, widening roadways to increase capacity would, in most cases, be inconsistent with other goals of PLAN Hermosa. More information for specific locations is available in Appendix G in the Draft EIR. PLAN Hermosa actions include substantial implementation of Transportation Demand Management measures, which are expected to reduce the expected growth in traffic compared with the 2040 without PLAN Hermosa scenario. Therefore, cumulative impacts on both local and state facilities would be reduced. Art Krugler KRUA-1 The City appreciates the commenter's positive feedback regarding the Planning Commission's review of the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. KRUA-2 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. The handout referenced in the comment concerns climate change, in general, and does not address climate change and GHG emissions in Hermosa Beach. Comments related to proposed policy will be presented to the City's decision -makers for consideration. It is also important to note that regardless of whether the City's decision -makers agree with the potential threats of climate change, the State of California has adopted long-term GHG reduction goals and requires jurisdictions to address GHG emissions under the California Environmental Quality Act and to demonstrate whether or not the project would generate GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on the environment. G&JMoriyama MORG-1 The commenters express an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. Bette Mower MOWB-1 The commenter addresses a specific building in Hermosa Beach (Prospect Avenue School on 6th Street) and its condition and potential historic significance. The property (Assessor's Parcel No. 4160-026-900) was omitted from the initial screening of properties greater than 45 years old due to incomplete information provided through Los Angeles County Assessor's tax rolls and parcel data, which did not include a built date or indicate the structure on the property. The City's cultural resources consultant has conducted a records search and site evaluation for the property and determined, based on the structure's age and architecture, that it may be eligible for local listing. The property has been assigned a California Historical Resource Code of 5S3, meaning it appears to be individually eligible for local listing or designation through survey evaluation, and has been added to Table 4.4-1 in the Final EIR. • • • Attachment 1A Jens Palsberg PALJ-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. Ken Sarno SARK -1 The commenter suggests that the presence of refineries in nearby cities should be considered in the air quality section of the plan and that the City should measure and analyze air quality impacts independently. The presence of refineries in surrounding cities is clearly stated on page 136 in PLAN Hermosa and in Appendix C-4 of the Draft EIR, which notes that the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) regulates air emissions from refinery emissions through its permitting process. The City of Hermosa Beach does not have any regulatory authority over the refineries or air quality emissions outside of the City's jurisdiction. Further, the purpose of the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR is to evaluate and analyze the potential physical impacts that the implementation of PLAN Hermosa might have on the environment, rather than evaluating the environmental effects that existing uses may have in Hermosa Beach. SARK -2 The commenter suggests that the City should incorporate additional air quality and monitoring policies. The specific suggestions do not address the adequacy of the EIR and do not require further response for purposes of the EIR's evaluation of air quality impacts. However, these suggestions are provided in a separate document for consideration by the City Council and Planning Commission in their review and adoption of PLAN Hermosa. Heather Schneider SCHH-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. Pam Tatreau TATP1-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. TATP2-1 The commenter expresses an opinion about the City's carbon neutral goal. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. Coco Tuttle TUTC-1 This comment is directed to the policies of PLAN Hermosa and not the Draft EIR. Accessibility is addressed in PLAN Hermosa. For example, Policy 3.10 (page 125) requires that all public rights-of-way be designed per Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards by incorporating crosswalks, curb ramps, pedestrian signals, and other components to provide ease of access for disabled persons. Policy 2.4 (page 205) directs the City to consider innovative funding strategies, such as cost-sharing, ADA accessibility grants, or sidewalk dedications, to improve the overall condition, safety, and accessibility of sidewalks. As future public or private projects are proposed, the City will be responsible for ensuring projects are constructed in compliance with ADA standards. Attachment 1A o • PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING • Attachment 1A • • Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach 11.21.16 Planning Commission Study Session Public Comments on the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR Planning Commission Agenda Item 3: Public Hearing - PLAN Hermosa Draft Environmental Impact Report Speaker: David Grethen, Hermosa Beach Summary: Most comments are in the area of carbon neutrality. • In regards to local energy projects, it would be helpful to have a scenario which looks at how much solar would be needed to meet the entire energy usage of the city, both for the municipal and community scale, and how much area that might take up, and to compare that with available rooftop area we have for businesses and residences and whether we'd have to take up open space to satisfy that goal. • Would like to know more about the stated amount of electric vehicle usage and the amount of kWh used for electric vehicles. Would also like to know the rate of vehicle conversion and how much room we would need in town for charging station infrastructure. • The character retention alternative looks potentially appealing, the carbon neutral by 2030 less so. On the carbon neutrality alternative, it is a little bit unfortunate that we are lumping together the acceleration to 2030 and the lack of offsets because then it makes it hard to distinguish the effects of the two factors. that I gather that the bulk of the impact is due to the offsets and not the 2030 goal. It would be really nice if there was a better way to sort out the difference between 2030 and 2040. • Why does state legislation need to be augmented by local policy in order to meet state goals. And is there something unique about Hermosa that does not get us to the state goals. Transcription: I will be submitting written comments, and most of them are in the area of carbon neutrality. So you'll be getting those and you'll look forward to getting those I hope. So I'll try to touch on some of the highlights just while I have the verbal opportunity to do so. One area where I'm looking for more information is where it talks about local energy projects and a statement about certain unknowns where it's hard to really tell if there's an impact. Something I've always been curious about is if we did a scenario where we looked at all solar to meet the entire energy usage of the city, both for the municipal and the community wide goals and to do some rough order of magnitude calculation to see the solar panel area and equipment area would be needed just to get a feel of the order of magnitude we are talking about. I'd also be interested then in comparing hat with how much available rooftop area we have for businesses and residences and if we'd have to go to the point of starting to take up open space to satisfy that goal. Another area is talk about a stated amount of electric vehicle usage and a stated amount of kWh used. Would like to know more about the assumed amount of vehicle conversion of what 1 PUBM-1 • • • Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach 11.21.16 Planning Commission Study Session Public Comments on the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR assumed amount we would go to among all the residents around town. And it would be interesting to see how that would affect how much room we would need in town for the charging station infrastructure. A quick comment in looking at the alternatives that the character retention alternative looks potentially appealing, the carbon neutral by 2030 alternative does not look so appealing to me. On the carbon neutrality alternative, it is a little bit unfortunate that we are lumping together the acceleration to 2030 and the lack of offsets because then it makes it hard to distinguish the effects of the two factors. I will point out there's a table that shows where we are receiving about 30% of the reduction from community solar, and then the other scenario where we are receiving about 30% from offsets and from that I gather that the bulk of the impact is due to the offsets and not the 2030 goal. It would be really nice if there was a better way to sort out the difference between 2030 and 2040. I also noticed something really interesting about the bar graph that helps explain, I'd like to see more discussion about that graph, and there's something that stuck out to me. My question is, why does state legislation need to be augmented by local policy in order to meet state goals. And is there something unique about Hermosa that does not get us to the state goals. I think the better we understood that, we might be able to better meet the goals. In general, when we talk about local energy, what really sticks out is what we do locally vs what we do remotely. And I think that aspect should really be emphasized. Speaker: Tracy Hopkins, Hermosa Beach Summary: • A resolution from the Republican National Committee was read that discusses the UN Sustainable Development Agenda. • Suggested that our local communities are in peril because of a small group that seeks to convince us that unless we surrender our property and freedoms, and unless we subsume our individual rights to the good of the community that the planet will not survive. • For over 200 years, Americans have protected our planet and our nation and our liberties and as communities we can pull together to create our own plans to improve the environment without the control of international groups and the seductive lure of easy federal grants. Transcription: I just want to read this statement about a resolution exposing the UN Sustainable Development Agenda since this document is full with sustainable development policies. Whereas the United Nations Sustainable Development is a comprehensive plan of extreme environmentalism, social engineering, and global political control that was initiated at the United Nations Conference on Environmental Development held in Rio de Janiero, Brazil in 1992, and whereas the United Nations Sustainable Development is being covertly pushed into local communities throughout the United States of America through the International Council of Local Environmental Initiatives 2 PUBM-1 cont. PUBM-2 PUBM-3 • • Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach 11.21.16 Planning Commission Study Session Public Comments on the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR (ICLEI) through local sustainable development policies such as smart growth, resilient cities, regional visioning projects through green or alternative development projects, and whereas the United States through radical sustainable development goals, so called sustainable development, views American private property ownership, single-family homes, private care ownership, and individual travel choices, and privately owned farms, all as destructive to the environment, and whereas according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Policy social justice is described as the right and opportunity of all people to benefit equally from resources afforded us by society and the environment which would be accomplished by socialist/communist redistribution of wealth, whereas according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Policy where national sovereignty is deemed a social injustice, now therefore be resolved the Republic National Committee recognizes the destructive and insidious nature of the United Nations Sustainable Development and hereby exposes to the public and public policy makers the dangerous intent of the plan, and therefore be it further resolved that the US Government and no state or local government is legally bound by the UN Sustainable Development Treaty and that it has never been endorsed by the US Government, and therefore be it further resolved that the Federal and State and local governments across the country be well-informed of the underlying harmful implications of implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development destructive strategies for sustainable development and we hereby endorse rejection of its radical policies and rejection of any grant monies attached to it. I would like to finish by suggesting that our local communities are in peril because of a small group that seeks to convince us that unless we surrender our property and freedoms, and unless we subsume our individual rights to the good of the community that the planet will not survive, yet this is a false choice. For over 200 years, Americans have protected our planet and our nation and our liberties and as communities we can pull together to create our own plans to improve the environment without the control of international groups and the seductive lure of easy federal grants. Together we can respect our environment and keep our rights and freedoms working together. That is the real choice. Speaker: Mark Hopkins, Hermosa Beach Summary: • The January 5ti, date seems like it's not really far out enough as we are starting Thanksgiving right now and going through the holidays and I just don't think people are going to get enough time. • Made reference to a survey of the American Meteorological Society Survey that was done this year. • The survey received responses from 3,761 members and the question was asked, "Which of the following best describes the local effects of climate change over the next 50 years?" Among the responses, 47% said that the impacts will be primarily harmful, and another 3% said that they will be exclusively harmful which is just 50%. 3 PUBM-3 cont. Attachment 1A Hermosa Beach 1 1.21.16 Planning Commission Study Session Public Comments on the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR Transcription: The January 5th date seems like it's not really far out enough as we are starting Thanksgiving right now and going through the holidays and I just don't think people are going to get enough time to address that. Just wanted to point out, and I pulled this up online is a survey of the American Meteorological Society Survey that was done this year. Basically it was given to thousands of members and this particular portion was 3,761 members who responded where the question was asked, "Which of the following best describes the local effects of climate change over the next 50 years?" And there are some bar graphs here and 47% said that the impacts will be primarily harmful, and another 3% said that they will be exclusively harmful so that's 50%. My point here is that we keep talking about the carbon neutrality here and in reality only half of the American Meteorological Society says that it's going to be harmful in the next 50 years. Anybody can look this up, it's not my survey, it's theirs. So I'm concerned that we keep working on the policies in this city, when yet the science is far from being solid. http://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2016/03/24/96-of-american-meteorological- society-members-think-climate-change-is-happening-says-new-report/#2b3975803935 • 4 PUBM-4 P U BM -5 • • Attachment 1A PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING (NOVEMBER 21, 2016) Comment # Response PUBM-1 See responses GRED1-1 and GRED1-2, which address the written comments submitted by the commenter concerning solar energy and electric vehicle usage, respectively. PUBM-2 See responses GRED1-4 and GRED1-5, which address the written comments submitted by the commenter concerning Character Retention Alternative 3 evaluated in the Draft EIR and the need for augmenting state legislation by local policy to meet state goals, respectively. PUBM-3 The commenter expresses an opinion about sustainable development, in general. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. PUBM-4 The commenter's opinion about the close of the comment period ending on January 5, 2017, for the Draft EIR is noted. CEQA Guidelines Section 15105 requires a minimum 45 -day review period for public review of a Draft EIR. The comment period for the PLAN Hermosa Draft EIR began October 26, 2016. The City has provided a review period of 72 days, which exceeds the 45 -day requirement. No additional response is required. PUBM-5 The commenter expresses an opinion about carbon neutrality, in general. The comment is not directed to the adequacy of the technical analysis or conclusions in the Draft EIR. No additional response is required. Attachment 1A • This page intentionally left blank. • • • • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR 3.1 INTRODUCTION This section includes minor revisions to the Draft EIR. These modifications resulted from responses to comments received during the Draft EIR public review period as well as staff -initiated changes. Changes are provided in revision marks (underline for new text and strikeout for deleted text). Revisions herein do not result in new significant environmental impacts, do not constitute significant new information, and do not alter the conclusions of the environmental analysis. 3.2 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR TABLE OF CONTENTS Pages iv -vi, list of appendices, revised as follows to include additional documents: Appendix C: Technical Background Report C-1. Introduction C-2. Aesthetics C-3. Agricultural Resources C-4. Air Quality C-5. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation C-6. Biological Resources C-7. Cultural Resources C-8. Energy C-9. Geology and Soils C-10. Hazards and Hazardous Material C-11. Hydrology and Water Quality C-12. Land Use and Planning C-13. Mineral Resources C-14. Population and Housing C-15. Noise C-16. Public Services and Utilities, and Recreation C-17. Transportation C-18. References Appendix Al Hermosa Beach Market Analysis Appendix A2 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea Level Rise Appendix B1 Natural Resources Appendix B2 Special Status Species Appendix B6 Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment Appendix B7 City of Hermosa Beach 2013-2021 Housing Element Appendix D: Air Quality Assessment Appendix E: Greenhouse Gas Assessment E-1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Assumptions E-2. City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecast, and Target Setting Report E-3. Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool and User Guide Appendix F: Noise Assessment F-1. Noise Measurements City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-1 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR F-2. Traffic Model Appendix G: Transportation Assessment G-1. Lane Configurations G-2. Traffic Counts G-3. Peak Hour Turning Movement Traffic Volumes G-4. LOS Worksheets G-5. Traffic Methodology G-6. VMT Reduction Methods and TDM+ Tool Outputs Appendix H: Tribal Consultation Pages v and vi, list of tables (excerpt), revised as follows: Table 4.3-1 Acreages of Vegetative Communities within the Coastal and Inland Zones 4.3-2 Table 4.3-2 Special -Status Plant Species with Potential to Occur Within and Surrounding the Planning Area 4.3-6 Table 4.3-3 Special -Status Wildlife Species with Potential to Occur Within and Surrounding the Planning Area 4.3-8 Table 4.6-1 Potential Statewide Impacts from Climate Change 4.6-2 Table 4.6-2 Hermosa Beach Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Sector, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2012 4.6-6 Table 4.6-3 Hermosa Beach Baseline (2005), Forecast (2040) Emissions, and Target Level (2040) 4.6-18 Table 4.6-4 California Policies Reducing Emissions Locally 4.6-19 Table 4.6-5 Comparison of BAU and Adjusted BAU Emissions (2040) 4.6-20 Table 4.6-6 Summary of Annual Emissions Reductions by Sector in 2040 4.6-23 Table 4.6-7 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals and Achievements 4.6-28 Page viii, list of figures (excerpt), revised as follows: Figure 3.0-10 Proposed Safe Routes to School Network 3.0-20 Figure 3.0-11 Parks and Public Facilities 3.0-24 Figure 4.3-1 Vegetative Communities 4.3-4 Figure 4.3-2 Previously Recorded Occurrences of Special -Status Species 4.3-5 Figure '1.1 1 Potentially Eligible Historic Resources (Windshield Survey) 1.4 4 Figure 4.5-1 Regional Faults 4.5-4 SECTION 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Project Description has been updated based on changes to PLAN Hermosa recommended by the Planning Commission and a clean version is provided at the end of this attachment. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-2 • • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR SECTION 4.1 (AESTHETIC AND VISUAL RESOURCES) Update Figure 4.1-1 Character Areas with modified map from PLAN Hermosa. Update Figure 4.1-2 Prominent Public Viewpoints with modified map from PLAN Hermosa. Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Page 4.1-14, Impact 4.1-1 has been revised as follows: IMPACT 4.1-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Adverse Effects on Scenic Vistas and Vlewsheds? Future actions under PLAN Hermosa have the potential to encroach on views from prominent public viewpoints. Future actions also have the potential to degrade the visual quality of scenic vistas, through the introduction of incongruous features to the viewshed. However, PLAN Hermosa also includes policies and implementation actions that direct future discretionary projects to identify, evaluate, and to the extent reasonable avoid the substantial obstruction, interference or decaradation of scenic vistas through the offering of exceptions to development standards that will allow for siting the project in a manner that avoids impacting scenic vistas. This impact would be less than slcinificant because development under PLAN Hermosa would comply with the evaluation and design process to avoid adverse effects on scenic vistas. Page 4.1-14, paragraph 2 under Impact 4.1-1 discussion has been revised as follows: PLAN Hermosa outlines the community's vision for proposed development in each of the city's distinctive zones and identifies policies and actions to reduce impacts to these public view corridors. For example, implementation actions PARKS -10 and 11, and 12 require discretionary design review for new development and public works projects based on specific criteria to be established in the Zoning Ordinance to evaluate protect scenic vistas. As such, utilities would be located underground when possible, and fences and walls would not block views from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, or other public viewing areas. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.1 states the intent to identify protect scenic vistas. Public vistas would also be protected through proposed implementation actions, as listed above. Page 4.1-14, paragraph 4 under Impact 4.1-1 discussion has been revised as follows: Howover, neither current City standards nor PLAN Hermosa policies or actions includo specific provisions to protect public view corridors. Therefore adverse effects on scenic would be required. Due to the built out naturo of Hormosa Boach, tho limitod roach of tho tho protection of public views. This metric is based on similar project experience and conversations with the City about its goals for protecting scenic vistas. The policies and actions as revised related to public views are desianed to provide more specificity on the expectation and process for identifying, evaluating, and addressing potential impacts to scenic vistas in a manner that is consistent with the Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. The greater level of specificity contained within the policies and implementation actions further helps to appropriately guide City staff and decision makers in the future to objectively and consistently and reasonably evaluate and mitigate City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 3.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR impacts to scenic vistas, and provide the opportunity for setback, open space, landscaping or other relief to properties that may otherwise substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from a scenic vista. This allows the property owner to minimize the impact to a Public view while providing the owner the same development privileges enioved by other similar properties in the vicinity (similar to a variance). The specific exception to be applied to each project will be evaluated on a project level to determine its appropriateness and compatibility with the neighborhood and the list of available exceptions will be specified in the zoning ordinance. Through the public hearing process, the community and commissioners have had an opportunity to synthesize PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, which shows the proposed Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Based on community and commissioner input, the Figure has been revised to remove two sites that do not meet the criteria for Prominent Public Views. The two views deleted include 8th Street at Loma Drive and El Oeste Drive. The 8th/Loma location can be deleted because the view is already surrounded by properties that have been developed close to or at the maximum extent allowed and therefore, future development during the life of the plan will not further impact the view beyond the existing development. The El Oeste viewpoint can be deleted because, while it presents a highly intact uninterrupted view, it does not meet the Prominent viewpoint criteria of having a large number of public viewers. This location is at the end of a dead end residential street where the General public does not typically access, pass or congregate. Therefore, it would be unlikely to have a large number of public viewers. The language incorporated into the policies and actions has been changed such that properties adjacent to, rather than within 50 feet of, the Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas will be required to evaluate and reasonably mitigate any substantial impact to a public view. Additionally, portions of Implementation Action PARKS - 12 have been removed because of their specificity to appropriate colors and textures and the portions of the actions pertaining to public works Proiects have been incorporated into PARKS -11. To specify appropriate colors or textures to private property owners would go against a Iona -standing community policy against judging or dictating design. These language changes are also appropriate because the 50 foot requirement, as well as the requirements for specific screening methods or use of certain materials may not be appropriate in all situations and do not allow for any site specific flexibility. Additionally, the language was too precise for policy language and implementation actions (and for the originally proposed mitigation measure). These types of details are better worked out through the implementation process and development of the ordinance. In some cases 50 feet may be too far, and in others it may not be far enough. There are site specific conditions like width of the road, setback requirements, and building height limits (vary from 25-35 feet) that may require variation in the distance needed to analyze impacts to views. It is further noted that the changes to the policies and implementation actions related to public views achieve the same purpose as proposed Mitigation Measure MM 4.1-1, that the potential impact to scenic vistas is adequately mitigated to a level that is less than significant, and that no new significant impacts to Aesthetics have been identified based on these chances. Page 4.1-15, Mitigation Measures has been revised as follows: None Required. MM 4.1 1 Projects located within 50 feet and within the directional arrow of o prominent public viewpoint, or within the uninterrupted viewing areas, PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-4 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR of scenic resources along the view corridors idontified in Draft EIR Figure no features are added in the viewshed that substantially obstruct or detract from the public views of the Pacific Ocean, the Palos Verdes the San Gabriel Mountains. This requirement shall be incorporated into of the Zoning Ordinance. Mountains, and the Los Angeles Basin and the San Cabriel Mountains are maintained. Thorofare, this impact would be reduced to Tess than significant. Page 4.1-15, Impact 4.1-2 has been revised as follows: IMPACT 4.1-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Have Adverse Effects on Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway? There are no designated state scenic highways in or near Hermosa Beach. However, PLAN Hermosa directs the City to pFe#ec-t beautifv and enhance Pacific Coast Highway as a potentially scenic y and would guide development and reuse projects in a manner that is consistent with the existing visual character of Pacific Coast Highway so that it may be designated as a scenic highway at somc point in the future. Therefore PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact. Scenic resources can include man-made or natural features, viewpoints, or viewsheds. They can include visually significant features such as rocks, trees, and historic buildings, particularly if those features are within a state scenic highway. There are no designated state scenic highways in or near Hermosa Beach. However, proposed Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.5 directs the City to protect Pacific Coast Highway as a locally designated scenic highway and important view corridor. This policy is the basis for future planning decisions that enhance the local stretch of PCH as a scenic resource. In its current state, Pacific Coast Highway's only significance as a scenic resource is its public views to the Pacific Ocean and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. As noted in the discussion above, significant public vistas from Pacific Coast Highway would be protected through proposed Policy 5.1 and implementation actions PARKS -10 and 11. in combination with mitigation moasure MM 4.1 1. Page 4.1-17, Table 4.1-1, City of Hermosa Beach Existing Visual Character and Future Vision, has been updated to reflect the changes to the Future Vision of Character Areas from PLAN Hermosa. Page 4.1-20, fourth paragraph has been revised as follows: As outlined above, PLAN Hermosa's intent is to maintain and enhance the city's visual character through appropriate building massing, scale, and size. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not substantially alter any of the residential neighborhoods or areas of the city, but may alter certain areas near Downtown and The Strand, through new development and streetscape. PLAN Hermosa policies are meant to preserve the city's character, including those resources that are designated landmarks or architecturally distinctive. For example, Goal 5 is intended to specifically retain the city's City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-5 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR character as a small beach town. Further, Land Use +Design Element Policy 1.6 would require the City to consider new development's compatibility with the existing scale and context, and Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.2 accommodates new buildings in a way that reflects the visual character of the community. None of the provisions of PLAN Hermosa would alter current land use patterns, height restrictions, or compatibility and buffering requirements currently established in the Zoning Ordinance (e.g., Sections 17.22.130, 17.26.050, and 17.28.030). PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions identified in this section implement and expand current General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan policy provisions for the protection of the city's visual character identified above in subsection 4.1.3, Regulatory Setting. Page 4.1-21, third paragraph has been revised as follows: Land Use + Design Element Policies 1.6, 1.8, and 2.7 would also require new developments to be compatible with surrounding development, as well as enhance existing character and be sensitive to context. Similarly, Land Use + Design Element Policy 10.6 requires attention to preservation of dosignated.andmarks, potentially historic resources, and older buildings. Implementation action LAND USE -2 directs the City to develop building design guidelines update the development standards within the Zoning Code to illustrate and articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area in accordance with those key features and characteristics to ensure that the overall visual character of the neighborhoods, centers, and districts is preserved. This action would apply to individual neighborhoods and character areas as identified in Figure 4.1-1 and in Table 4.1-1, as it would apply citywide. The proposed implementation action establishes the appropriate mechanism for developing zoning standards design guidelines that would prevent significant degradation of the built environment's visual character. As such, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and programs would reduce the impacts associated with visual character and visual sensitivity to a less than significant level because the City would implement design review development standards that require attention to and consistency with the surrounding area neighboring structures in form, line, massing, and color and existing visual character and identity. Therefore, the impact would be Tess than significant. SECTION 4.2 (AIR QUALITY) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Page 4.2-11, second paragraph has been modified as follows: By focusing planning and improvement efforts toward designing complete streets, promoting economic diversity, and enhancing communitywide mobility, PLAN Hermosa is anticipated to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within the city. Mobility Element Goal 3 would encourage multimodal and people -oriented transportation, which could minimize or eliminate certain mobile vehicle trips (see Section 4.14, Transportation, of this EIR for an analysis of anticipated vehicle miles traveled under PLAN Hermosa). Land Use + Design Element Goal 1 would promote a diverse mix of uses, which would reduce vehicle trips between residential uses and retail or employment uses. Land Use + Design Element Goal 4 would increase the accessibility of public transit to nearby residential uses, thus reducing vehicle miles traveled. Mobility Element Policy 5.5 encourages smart growth in land use policies to ensure more compact, mixed, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-6 • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR modes. Implementing these policies and programs would strengthen Hermosa Beach's efforts to reduce air quality emissions from VMT, area sources, construction, and other miscellaneous sources beyond that of the existing General Plan, which is the basis for the existing regional air quality plan (i.e., 2012 Air Quality Management Plan [AQMP]). Page 4.2-12, last paragraph has been modified as follows: PLAN Hermosa policies include numerous measures that support transportation demand and accessibility management. Specifically, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.2 directs the City to support land use and transportation strategies to reduce vchiclo miles traveloel-Gndcmissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. Policy 3.7 directs the City to consult with other agencies to improve air quality through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources and other larae polluters. PLAN Hermosa would promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. Page 4.2-13, third paragraph has been modified as follows: A number of PLAN Hermosa policies, along with required SCAQMD rules and regulations, would help reduce short-term construction emissions. All construction projects in the city would be subject to SCAQMD Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust) to minimize fugitive particulate matter (PM) dust emissions during construction. In addition, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 7.2 would require future projects to minimize PMio and PM2.5 emissions by promoting best practices for controlling fugitive dust. Implementation actions SUSTAINABILITY -16 and 17, and 18 aim to control soil erosion during grading and other construction activities. Furthermore, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 2.76 would require all discretionary projects to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, which would also affect the emissions of ozone precursors, PMio, and PM2.5 in the city. SECTION 4.3 (BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. SECTION 4.4 (CULTURAL RESOURCES) Page 4.4-2, first paragraph, has been revised as follows: Hermosa Beach has not been surveyed previously; therefore, a citywide windshield survey was conducted by certified architectural historians to examine existing conditions and identify examples of potontially cligiblo property types, styles, and methods of construction that represent key periods of development in Hermosa Beach. which included locating potential individual historical resources and concentrations or groups of intact resources that appoar to be eligible as potential historic districts based on their age, architecture, and intogrity. There are approximately 3,600 parcels with improvements over 45 years old in Hermosa Beach. A total of 218 improved parcels wore idontifiod as potcntially cligiblo for local listing and were assigned California Historical Resource (CHR) status codes of 5S3, °valuation." In addition, tho survey identified two groupings of single family residences City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 3.0-7 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR that appear potentially eligible as beach cottage districts and were assigned CHR status codes of 5D3, "appears to be a contributor to a district that appears eligible for local listing or designation through survey evaluation." • Resources [Windshield Survey]) identifies the 218 parcels that have been identified as potentially eligible for local listing. An architectural overview, complete inventory list, and Apfx7 Page 4.4-4, Figure 4.4-1, Potentially Eligible Historic Resources Map, has been removed and is replaced with a narrative describing the general history and time periods of development in Hermosa Beach as provided in the Existing Conditions Report. Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Page 4.4-11, last paragraph is modified as follows: Implementation action LAND USE 2321 would require archaeological investigations, as necessary, by a qualified archaeologist for projects subject to CEQA involving ground - disturbing activities for areas not previously surveyed and/or that are determined sensitive for cultural resources and would require preparation and implementation of a treatment plan if buried resources would be affected by a proposed project. For example, an initial archaeological study (Phase I Assessment), at a minimum, would consist of the following tasks to identify known archaeological resources in a given project site: a cultural resources records search through the South Central Coastal Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System, a pedestrian survey of the project site, a review of the land use history, and coordination with knowledgeable organizations or individuals (e.g., Hermosa Beach Historical Society, Native American tribes). If warranted, additional analyses such as archaeological test excavations and/or remote sensing methods would be implemented to identify resources. Page 4.4-12, first paragraph is modified as follows: To identify if a project requires archaeological investigations, the City would review available geotechnical studies to determine whether excavation activities would impact native soils. If a geotechnical study is not available for review, then the City would need to make a determination based on a review of recent aerial photography of the project location, available data from adjacent or nearby sites, and professional judgement. Thus, with implementation action LAND USE -2321, future development and reuse projects under PLAN Hermosa would implement the appropriate treatment and/or preservation of resources if encountered. Therefore, potentially significant impacts on archaeological resources would be less than significant. Page 4.4-14, last paragraph, and 4.14-15 first paragraph are modified as follows: The City does not have a comprehensive list of potentially eligible historic properties over 45 years old. During the preparation of the City's General Plan Land Use Element in 1994, 28 historical resources and two historic districts were identified as potentially eligible; however, some of these potential resources have been demolished or substantially altered. Furthermore, this list is now over 20 years old and many additional properties now meet the age threshold for consideration that would have not been considered in 1994. A new windshield survey was conducted to examine existing conditions and identify PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-8 • • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR examples of property types, styles, and methods of construction that represent key periods of development in Hermosa Beach. As described in Appendix C-7, PCR conducted a windshield survey to identify potentially eligible individual historic resources and concentrations or groups of historic resources that appeared to be eligible as potential eee e. parcels aro potentially eligible for local listing (5S3) and two potentially eligible groupings of single family residences that appear to be eligible as beach cottage districts (5D3). The evaluation of historic resources during tho windshield survey was based on architecture, and a more intensive survey could be conducted in the future to consider patterns of history, events, and significant persons. Approximately 60 percent of the potentially eligible resources are single family, one story residential properties constructed between 1906 and 1930 located in the Walk Street, Sand percent of potentially eligible properties include a variety of property types and styles, .such as commercial and industrial buildings, institutional buildings, landscape architectural features, churches, parkettes, and greenbelts. These potential historical resources are Highway corridor. Page 4.4-15, paragraph five and six, and Page 4.14-16, first paragraph are modified as follows: Provisions of the City's current preservation ordinance (Municipal Code Section 17.53) would not prevent the demolition or impairment of a historic building or structures that are not formally designated as a landmark under the City's preservation ordinance or listed on the City's potential historical resources list, but that meet the definition of historical resource for the purpose of CEQA. Demolition of such a historical resource would be a significant impact under CEQA. Furthermore, it is possible that some structures that have not yet been surveyed could be eligible historical resources. implementation actions LAND USE 3 and LAND USE 15 attempt to lessen impacts due to infill development adjacent to historical resources by recommending tho preparation of design guidelines to onsuro new development would not sharply contrast with nearby historic resources and the use of the to historical resources. Policies 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, and 10.6 would encourage the voluntary designation of potentially eligible historic resources as landmarks or historic districts, mad discourage the inappropriate alteration or demolition of designated landmarks, require the evaluation of potentially oligiblo historic resources associated with discretionary projects prior to demolition, and provide incentives for preservation of historic resources. The implementation actions set forth in PLAN Hermosa recommend a number of programs to support the goals and policies described above. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions requiring the identification and protection of historic resources, along with adherence to existing federal, state, and City regulations, would provide greater protections to locally designated and potential historical resources. Other implementation actions address amending CEQA documentation and the initial study program to ensure historic resources are adequately addressed (LAND USE -13) and tho establishment of design review procedures and guidelines (LAND USE 18). However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not prevent the demolition of or substantial adverse change to potentially eligible historic buildings and City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-9 PLAN Hermosa 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR structures that qualify as historical resources pursuant to CEQA, but have not been formally designated under the City's preservation ordinance or listed on the City's potential landmark list. Therefore, this impact would be potentially significant. Page 4.4-16, Mitigation Measures have been revised as follows: Mitigation Measures MM 4.4 4a The City shall establish as updated list of potential historic resources to be maintained by the Community Development Diroctor. Tho list shall bo updated every 10 years, at a minimum, to identify as yet unknown historical resources (as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15061.5) as potential resources are identified through citywide surveys and on a preject by project basis. MM 4.4-4ba MM 4.4-4cb MM 4.4-4dc MM 4.4-4ed The City shall require project applicants of discretionary proiects to conduct historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports on a project -by -project basis, when a project proposes to alter, demolish, or degrade a designated landmark or a potential historic resource- landmark esourcelandmark as defined by Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 17.53. The City shall maintain the "Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach" guide, and shall update the guide so that it is informed by current resource data and its goals and policies are consistent with the Land Use + Design Element. The City shall develop procedures and nomination applications to facilitate and streamline the designation of local historic sites and historic districts. Historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports shall be performed by persons who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation (48 CFR 44716). MM 4A 4f For historical resources that may be adversely impacted, conformance with Properties and application of tho State Historical Building Code shall bo required to protect significant character defining features and protect the eligibility of potential historical resources. Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-4fd would reduce impacts on historical resources to the extent feasible. However, impacts on potentially eligible historic structures could occur depending on the proposed uses, the cost of rehabilitation, and safety considerations. Thus, it may not be feasible in all circumstances to rehabilitate a structure and retain its historic significance. If a project applicant proposes to demolish an eligible structure, the City would consider the project's impacts prior to approval. Given this uncertainty, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-10 • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR Discussions under Impacts 4.4-5, 4.4-6 have been updated to reference LAND USE -21 implementation action. Discussions under Impact 4.4-8 has been updated to reflect new mitigation measures identified in 4.4-4 to reference MM4.4-4a — MM4.4-4d. SECTION 4.5 (GEOLOGY AND SOILS) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. SECTION 4.6 (GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft Page 4.6-9, second paragraph, last sentence, is revised as follows: The Carbon Planning Tool includes the links and sources used for each data point and assumptions used to calculate cmissions reductions. Appendix E-1 (PLAN Hermosa Greenhouse Gas Reduction Assumptions) details the sources and assumptions used in the Carbon Planning Tool to estimate the potential emissions reductions from each strategy. The analysis relies on assumptions based on current technology (e.g., the average electrical output of 1 kilowatt (kW1 of solar in Hermosa Beach is currently 1,488 kilowatt hours (kWh] annually) unless regulation or peer-reviewed research can reasonably project the effect that future technology would have on reducing GHG emissions (e.g., state and federal fuel efficiency standards for light-duty passenger vehicles mandate that the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle fleet will increase from 34 miles per gallon in 2016 to 55 miles per gallon by 2025). Page 4.6-22, third through fifth paragraphs are modified as follows: Finally, PLAN Hermosa also includes several policies to support the reduction of GHG emissions that are not specific to a certain activity or sector. For instance, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 2.1 states that Hermosa Beach will reduce its GHG emissions in alignment with state targets and goals and will also achieve carbon neutrality no later than 2010. Implementation action SUSTAINABILITY -1 will establish a GHG impact fee for all future discretionary development projects to offset their fair share of GHG contribution above established thresholds, and SUSTAINABILITY -5 requires the City to regularly monitor and evaluate Hermosa Beach's progress toward community -wide carbon neutrality greenhouse gas reductions. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 2.5 directs the City to purchase carbon offsets eee reductions achieved from the purchase of carbon offsets or implementation of projects reductions calculations to demonstrate achievement toward carbon neutrality, but they aro ee reduction targets by 2010 consistent with long term state goals. While offsets are included to demonstrate consistency with state goals is limited at this time. While the California Air Resources Board has developed guidance for organizations or operators subject to cap and trade regulation on how to select, verify, and register offset projects counted toward City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 3.0-11 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR demonstrate compliance by organizations or jurisdictions that are excluded from cap and trade regulation. As noted in the Thresholds of Significance discussion above, PLAN Hermosa needs to demonstrate an ability to achieve long-term statewide goals by reducing community GHG emissions by approximately 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 to be considered a less than significant impact. Full implementation of the policies and actions in PLAN Hermosa has the potential to reduce emissions through local projects by at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 and up to 100 percent by 2010 through the purchase of additional contained in the Sustainability + Conservation Element would come from emissions reduction projects outside of Hermosa Beach or through the purchase of carbon offsets or credits. Table 4.6-6, on Page 4.6-23, is modified as follows: TABLE 4.6-6 SUMMARY OF ANNUAL EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS BY SECTOR IN 2040 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-12 City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 Share of Carbon Reductions (%) Annual Carbon Reduction (MTCO2e) Baseline 2005 Emissions 137,160 2012 Emissions -7.7% 126,610 BAU Emissions (2040) +5.0% 133,430 State Programs (2040) -27.7% 38,010 Local Remaining Emissions to Be Reduced 95,420 Building Efficiency New Construction Residential Efficiency -1.3% 1,810 Existing Buildings Residential Efficiency -4.4% 6,100 New Construction Nonresidential Efficiency -2.0% 2,810 Existing Buildings Nonresidential Efficiency -2.0% 2,770 Subtotal -9.8% 13,490 Renewable Energy Generation Rooftop Solar -5.9% 8,100 Community Solar -0.4% 550 Renewable Energy Procurement -7.3% 10,010 Purchased Renewables (Green Rate) -0.0% 0 Subtotal -13.6% 18,660 Transportation + Land Use Land Use & Transportation Alternatives -4.0% 5,500 Additional Transportation Strategies -1.9% 2,560 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-12 City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 Page 4.6-24 Mitigation Measures updated as follows: MM 4.6 -la MM 4.6 -lb MM 4.6-1c The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, GF and other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify and take specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b. The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with long-term state goals include: • 2020:15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030: 49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan, and other appropriate tools when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the Climate Action Plan, or other City policies and programs will include additional regulatory measures or incentives that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met. Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. Page 4.6-28, under Impact 4.6-2, a new paragraph and table are inserted as follows: A numeric summary of the relevant GHG emissions reduction goals articulated through state legislation or executive orders and locally adopted planning documents, along with City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 3.0-13 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report Share of Carbon Reductions (%) Annual Carbon Reduction (MTCO2e) Electric Vehicles -7.4% 10,100 Subtotal -13.0% 18,160 Other Sectors + Offsets Waste + Recycling -2.5% 3,480 Water + Wastewater -0.2% 330 Purchase Offsots 30.1% 11,310 Subtotal -2.7% 3.810 TOTAL -69.9% 54,110 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 Page 4.6-24 Mitigation Measures updated as follows: MM 4.6 -la MM 4.6 -lb MM 4.6-1c The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, GF and other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify and take specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b. The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with long-term state goals include: • 2020:15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030: 49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan, and other appropriate tools when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the Climate Action Plan, or other City policies and programs will include additional regulatory measures or incentives that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met. Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. Page 4.6-28, under Impact 4.6-2, a new paragraph and table are inserted as follows: A numeric summary of the relevant GHG emissions reduction goals articulated through state legislation or executive orders and locally adopted planning documents, along with City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 3.0-13 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR the level of GHG reductions that are anticipated to be achieved through the implementation of policies in PLAN Hermosa, is presented in Table 4.6-7. TABLE 4.6-7 (NEW TABLE ADDED TO EIR) GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION GOALS AND ACHIEVEMENTS • Percent Emissions Reduction Below 2005 Levels GHG Emissions Reduction Goals Goal Origination 2020 2030 2040 2050 State Legislation (adopted) 15% (AB 32) 49% (SB 32) State Executive Order 83% (E.O. S-3-05) Local Plans (Adopted) 15% (Sustainability Plan) Trajectory Needed to Meet Goals 15% 49% 66% 83% PLAN Hermosa PLAN Hermosa 66% PLAN Hermosa EIR Alternative 2 (without offsets) 100% Source: City of Hermosa Beach, 2016. Page 4.6-29, paragraph two is modified to read as follows: In 2015, the City of Hermosa Beach adopted a local goal to become a carbon neutral municipal organization no later than 2020 through adoption of the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. This plan set the City up to demonstrate environmental leadership at the municipal level and identified carbon reduction programs and initiatives to achieve the carbon neutral goal. The Hermosa Beach Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan was funded by a Grant from the Southern California Association of Governments to identify and explore emissions reduction opportunities for municipal facilities and operations. The Municipal CN Plan also identifies the elements of setting a greenhouse gas reduction Goal including the time frame, magnitude, and scope of emissions/activities included. The Municipal CN Plan explored a ranee of greenhouse gas reduction goals and ultimately adopted a goal to reach carbon neutrality for municipal facilities and operations by the end of 2020. Examples of implementation measures in the Municipal CN Plan included pursuing Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), accelerating implementation of the Clean Fleet Policy, upgrading street lighting to LED lighting, installing solar photovoltaic systems on municipal property, and dedicating staff to implement employee commute reduction programs. Implementation of these measures was projected to reduce direct municipal emissions by at least 40% by 2020. To reach a Goal of carbon neutrality, the Municipal CN Plan identified that the remaining emissions would need to be offset by either generating additional local renewable energy or purchasing offsets, though in 2016 Council provided direction to staff not to pursue the latter option to purchase offsets. Given the progress between 2005 and 2015, the projects recently completed or anticipated to be completed in the next few years, and the previous direction from City Council not to pursue the use of carbon credits or offsets, the City is on course to reduce municipal emissions by PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-14 • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR approximately 58% by 2020 from 2005 levels, which exceeds the direct emissions reductions identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, but does not reach the carbon neutral goal for municipal facilities by 2020. PLAN Hermosa includes Sustainability + Conservation Element Goal 1 to meet or exceed an 80% reduction in municipal greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels by 2030 through projects that will directly reduce emissions from municipal facilities and operations (rather than through offsets). While the goal does not commit to carbon neutrality for the municipality as previously indicated in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, Goal 1 and the associated policies will lead to a areater level of direct, measureable reductions in Greenhouse gas emissions than identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan(carbon neutral municipal facilities and operations by 2020 and sustained into the future), which is consistent with the goal adopted in 2015 to be a carbon-R+31.14fGl municipal organization by 2020. To further support the goal, Policies 1.1 through 1.10 speak to prioritizing projects that provide the highest return on investment, aligning projects to reduce emissions with the current sources of emissions, and using pilot or demonstration projects. The policies included in PLAN Hermosa mirror the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan recommendations to pursue a diverse mixture of emissions reduction projects, to utilize offsets, and to evaluate the costs and savings/benefits of various projects prior to implementing. SECTION 4.7 (HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS) Page 4.7-4 description of City of Hermosa Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is updated as follows: • City of Hermosa Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan: The City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan last updated in 2005, has been updated in 2017 to meets the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The act requires local governments to prepare plans that identify hazards and risks within a community, and create appropriate mitigation. The purpose of the plan is to integrate hazard mitigation strategies into the City's daily activities and programs. Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. References updated as follows: City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. E&B Oil Drilling & Production Project Final Environmental Impact Report.http://www.hermosabch.org/ftp/oil_docs/FEIR%20Hermosa%20beach%20011%20Pr oject_All%20Sections.pdf. . 2016. City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan. Accessed January 2014. htto://www.hermosabch.ora/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=7802 . 2017. City of Hermosa Beach 2017 Draft Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=9252 . 2017. PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 4.8 (HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. References updated as follows: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-15 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR . 2017. City of Hermosa Beach 2017 Draft Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. http://www.hermosabch.orcilmodules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=9252 2017. PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 4.9 (LAND USE AND PLANNING) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Replace Figure 4.9-1 with updated Land Use Designation Maps from PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 4.10 (MINERAL RESOURCES) No changes. SECTION 4.11 (NOISE AND VIBRATION) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. SECTION 4.12 (POPULATION AND HOUSING) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. SECTION 4.13 (PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Update Figure 4.13-1 Parks and Public Facilities with modified map from PLAN Hermosa. Update Table 4.13-2 Parks and Community Facilities in Hermosa Beach with modified table form PLAN Hermosa. Page 4.13-35, second to last sentence in the second paragraph under the Wastewater subheading is revised as follows: The LACSD trunk lines flow to the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant (JWPCP), located in Carson. The JWPCP is one of the largest wastewater plants in the world and is the largest of the LACSD wastewater treatment plants. The facility provides both primary and secondary treatment and has a total permitted capacity of 400 million gallons per day (mgd).3 The plant serves a population of approximately 3.5 million people throughout Los Angeles County. Treated discharge from the plant is transported to the Pacific Ocean through a network of outfalls, which extend 1.5 miles off the Palos Verdes Peninsula, to a depth of 200 feet (LACSD 2013). The JWPCP currently processes an average flow of 263.1 254.1 mgd (LACSD 2015; LACSD 2017). The projected flow to the JWPCP in its service area for 2050 is 359 mgd.4 Page 4.13-43, first paragraph in the discussion of Impact 4.13.7-1 is revised as follows: The increased population resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa could generate additional wastewater flows that would be treated by the Joint Water Pollution Control PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-16 • • • 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR Plant located in Carson. The LACSD has estimated wastewater flows generated by the additional 300 residential units and 630,400 square feet of nonresidential development to be approximately 251,680 gallons per day (or 0.252 mgd) of wastewater (LACSD 2015).6 Currently, the JWPCP treats an average of 263.1 254.1 mgd, which includes flows from Hermosa Beach. The addition of flows from PLAN Hermosa (0.252 mgd) would increase treated flows to approximately 263.4 254.4 mgd, which would not exceed the current 280- mgd primary and secondary treatment capacity or the 400-mgd permitted capacity of the JWPCP. PLAN Hermosa's additional flows would represent less than an approximately 0.1 percent contribution to flows. Page 4.13-62, two new sentences have been added to the end of the second paragraph under the "Automotive Fuel Consumption" subheading as follows: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's proposed policies and implementation actions that are designed to promote pedestrian, bicycle, and transit forms of transportation would further reduce dependency on fossil fuels. As shown in Table 4.13-7, under PLAN Hermosa, the amount of transportation fuels consumed would be reduced to approximately 1.4 million gallons or almost 77 percent when compared to existing (2015) conditions, but would also increase electricity consumption due to the increase in use of electric vehicles. The reduction of transportation fuel consumed by 2040 compared to 2015 (77 percent) is a result of greater fuel efficiency from conventionally fueled vehicles, a reduction in overall vehicle miles traveled through land use changes, and a greater shift to electric vehicles or fossil -free vehicles. By 2040 it is estimated that approximately 75 percent of new vehicles in Hermosa Beach will be electric or fossil -free vehicles, compared to approximately 5 percent in 2015. This information, along with all other assumptions associated with the calculation of energy or fuel use and greenhouse gas reductions, is presented in Appendix E_1. Page 4.13-62, a new paragraph has been added immediately following Table 4.13-7 as follows: The data in Table 4.13-7 have been developed using the same assumptions used for the greenhouse gas emissions analysis in Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which concludes that PLAN Hermosa will reduce emissions locally by at least 66 percent by 2040. Page 4.13-67, a new reference is added as follows: LACSD (Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County). 2012. Clearwater Program Final Master Facilities Plan. . 2013. Wastewater Facilities. http://www.lacsd.org/wastewater/wwfacilities/default.asp#map. 2015. Plan Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update [comment letter on Notice of Preparation dated September 8, 2015, included in Appendix B] 2017. Response to DEIR for the PLAN Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update [comment letter on Draft EIR dated January 5, 2017, included in Section 2.0, Responses to Comments, in the Final EIR1. SECTION 4.14 (TRANSPORTATION) Replace Policies and Implementation Actions from PLAN Hermosa with modified policies from City Council Final Draft. Update Table 4.14-14 to match proposed bicycle facilities map. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3.0-17 3.0 REVISIONS TO THE DRAFT EIR TABLE 4.14-14 PLANNED HERMOSA BEACH BICYCLE FACILITIES Class Street/Path From To Proposed Class I and IV Facilities I Marvin Braude Bike Trail ( The Strand) North City Limits South City Limits IV Prospect Avenue Artesia Boulevard South City Limits IV Hermosa Avenue North City Limits 26th Street Proposed Class II and Class III Facilities II Aviation Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway Harper Avenue II Artesia Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway Harper Avenue II/III Hermosa Avenue North City Limits South City Limits II/III 27th Street/Gould Avenue Hermosa Avenue Pacific Coast Highway III Pier Avenue Hermosa Avenue Pacific Coast Highway III 16th Street Hermosa Avenue Prospect Avenue III Longfellow Avenue Hermosa Avenue Valley Drive III Valley Drive Longfellow Avenue Herondo Street III Morningside Drive 35th Street 26th Street III 5th Street/6th Street Hermosa Avenue Prospect Avenue III 10th Street The Strand Prospect Avenue III 22nd Street/Monterey Boulevard The Strand Herondo Street III 21st Street Ardmore Avenue Prospect Avenue Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 APPENDIX C Appendix C-7 is modified to delete Figure 7.2: Potential Historic Resources Appendix C is modified to include the following appendices prepared as part of the Technical Background Report (appendices numbered as they appear in the Technical Background Report). These appendices are included on CD at the back of this Final EIR. • Appendix Al Hermosa Beach Market Analysis • Appendix A2 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea Level Rise • Appendix B1 Natural Resources • Appendix B2 Special Status Species • Appendix B6 Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment • Appendix B7 City of Hermosa Beach 2013-2021 Housing Element APPENDIX H (NEW) A new Appendix H (Tribal Consultation) has been added to document the Tribal Consultation process completed by the City for this project in compliance with AB 52 and SB 18. The documents in Appendix H are confidential to comply with AB 52 and protect the confidential information provided by California Native American Tribes. They are included in the administrative record for the EIR and are on file with the City of Hermosa Beach. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 3.0-18 • • 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM 4.1 MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM As the Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of Hermosa Beach (City) is required to adopt a program for reporting or monitoring regarding the implementation of mitigation measures for PLAN Hermosa, if it is approved, to ensure that the adopted mitigation measures are implemented as defined in this environmental impact report (EIR). This Lead Agency responsibility originates in Public Resources Code Section 21081.6(a) (Findings) and the CEQA Guidelines Sections 15091(d) (Findings) and 15097 (Mitigation Monitoring or Reporting). 4.2 MONITORING AUTHORITY AND ENFORCEMENT RESPONSIBILITY The purpose of a Mitigation Monitoring, and Reporting Program (MMRP) is to ensure that the measures adopted to mitigate or avoid significant impacts are implemented. An MMRP can be a working guide to facilitate not only the implementation of mitigation measures by the City and/or future project applicants (as appropriate), but also the monitoring, compliance, and reporting activities of the City and any monitors it may designate. The City may delegate duties and responsibilities for monitoring to other environmental monitors or consultants as deemed necessary. The City or its designee(s), however, will ensure that each person delegated any duties or responsibilities is qualified to monitor compliance. Any mitigation measure study or plan that requires the approval of the City must allow at least 60 days for adequate review time. When a mitigation measure requires that a mitigation program be developed during the design phase of a specific project, the applicant must submit the final program to City for review and approval for at least 60 days before any construction activity begins. Other agencies and jurisdictions may require additional review time. It is the responsibility of the environmental monitor to ensure that appropriate agency reviews and approvals are obtained. The City or its designee will also ensure that any deviation from the procedures identified under the monitoring program is approved by the City. Any deviation and its correction shall be reported immediately to the City or its designee by the environmental monitor. The City is responsible for enforcing the procedures adopted for monitoring through the environmental monitor. Any assigned environmental monitor shall note problems with monitoring, notify appropriate agencies or individuals about any problems, and report the problems to the City or its designee. 4.3 MITIGATION COMPLIANCE RESPONSIBILITY The City and/or future project applicant, as applicable, is responsible for successfully implementing the mitigation measures in the MMRP, and is responsible for assuring that these requirements are met by all of its contractors and field personnel. Standards for successful mitigation also are implicit in many mitigation measures that include such requirements as coordination with a resource agency or avoiding a specific impact entirely. Other mitigation measures include performance standards. Additional mitigation success thresholds will be established by applicable agencies with jurisdiction through the permit process and through the review and approval of plans for the implementation of mitigation measures. 4.4 GENERAL MONITORING PROCEDURES Environmental Monitors. The City and the environmental monitor(s) are responsible for integrating the mitigation monitoring procedures into the construction or operation process in coordination with project applicants. To oversee the monitoring procedures and to ensure success, the environmental monitor assigned to a project must be on-site during that portion of the construction or operation that has the potential to create a significant environmental impact or City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0-1 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM other impact for which mitigation is required. The environmental monitor is responsible for ensuring that all procedures specified in the monitoring program are followed. General Reporting Procedures. Site visits and specified monitoring procedures performed by other individuals will be reported to the environmental monitor. A monitoring record form will be submitted to the environmental monitor by the individual conducting the visit or procedure so that details of the visit can be recorded and progress tracked by the environmental monitor. A checklist will be developed and maintained by the environmental monitor to track all procedures required for each mitigation measure and to ensure that the timing specified for the procedures is adhered to. The environmental monitor will note any problems that may occur and take appropriate action to rectify the problems. Public Access to Records. The public is allowed access to records and reports used to track the monitoring program. Monitoring records and reports will be made available for public inspection by the City or its designee on request. 4.5 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING TABLE Table 4.0-1 lists the monitoring and reporting plan requirements for the mitigation measures identified in Section 4.1 through Section 4.14 of the Draft EIR for PLAN Hermosa. Table 4.0-1 provides the following information, by column: • Mitigation Measure (description of the mitigation measure, listed in the order they appear in the Draft EIR); • Compliance Verification (monitoring or plan requirements necessary to verify compliance with the mitigation measure); • Responsible Party (this is the entity responsible for implementing the mitigation measure) • Timing (this identifies when the action needs to be taken on the mitigation measure) • Verification Method (this is how the agency responsible for ensuring the mitigation measure has been implemented); and • Verification Responsibility (this is the agency that is responsible for assuring compliance with the mitigation measure). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 4.0-2 • • • 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements gResponsibility Compliance Verification Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility 4.2 Air Quart), MM 4.2-2a . Construction projects within the city shall demonstrate compliance with all applicable standards of the Southern California Air Quality Management District, including the following provisions of District Rule 403: • All unpaved demolition and construction areas shall be wetted at least twice daily during excavation and construction, and temporary dust covers shall be used to reduce dust emissions and meet SCAQMD Rule 403. Wetting could reduce fugitive dust by as much as 50 percent. • The construction area shall be kept sufficiently dampened to control dust caused by grading and hauling, and at all times provide reasonable control of dust caused by wind. • All clearing, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be discontinued during periods of high winds (i.e., greater than 15 mph), so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • All dirt/soil loads shall be secured by trimming, watering, or other appropriate means to prevent spillage and dust. • All dirt/soil materials transported off-site shall be required to cover their loads as required by California Vehicle Code Section 23114 to prevent excessive amount of dust. • General contractors shall maintain and operate construction equipment so as to minimize exhaust emissions. • Trucks having no current hauling activity shall not idle but shall be turned off. Project applicant During construction Verification through site inspection City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.2-2b In accordance with Section 2485 in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, the idling of all diesel -fueled commercial vehicles (weighing over 10,000 pounds) during construction shall be limited to 5 minutes at any location. Project applicant During construction Verification through site inspection City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.2-2c Construction projects within the city shall comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113 limiting the volatile organic compound content of architectural coatings. Project applicant During construction Verification through site inspection City of Hermosa Beach City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 4.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements 9 q Compliance Verification Responsibility Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility MM 4.2-2d Construction projects within the city shall install odor -reducing equipment in accordance with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1138. Project applicant During construction Verification through site inspection City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.2-2e Project applicants shall identify all measures to reduce air pollutant emissions below SCAQMD thresholds prior to the issuance of building permits. Should attainment of SCAQMD thresholds be determined to be infeasible, construction contractors shall provide evidence of this to the City and will be encouraged to apply for SCAQMD SOON funds. Project applicant At least 60 days prior to issuance of construction permits Verification during plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach 4.3 Biological Resources MM 4.3-1 Construction of facilities on the beach that must occur between the months of April and August (roosting season for snowy plovers) will require preconstruction surveys to determine the presence of western snowy plovers or California least terns. If these species are present no construction may occur until the species leave the roost based on review by a qualified biologist and consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). If the project is within a Special Protection Zone, construction activities will not be allowed until western snowy plovers are no longer present. If the area is not within a Special Protection Zone, a qualified biologist will survey the area for western snowy plovers using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if plovers are present If they are present, no work will occur until after snowy plovers leave the roost site for the season. The qualified biologist will also survey the area for California least tems using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if California least terns are present If surveys are negative for western snowy plovers or California least terns, work may proceed during the roosting period and the biologist will be present to monitor the establishment of the beach landing sites to ensure that no western snowy plovers or California least terns are injured or killed, should they arrive in the area subsequent to work commencing. The project will include fencing/walls that will prevent western snowy plovers or California least terns from entering the work areas. The biologist will conduct weekly site visits to ensure that fencing/walls are intact until construction activities Project applicant Prior to construction Verify preconstruction surveys, agency consultation, and reporting completed City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0-4 • City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 • • A • 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements gResponsibility Compliance Verification Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility are finished at the sites and all equipment is removed from the beach. The results of the preconstruction survey will be submitted to the City prior to the establishment of beach landing sites. All biological monitoring efforts will be documented in monthly compliance reports to the City. 4.4 Cultural Resources MM 4.4-3 As a standard condition of approval for future development projects implemented under PLAN Hermosa that involve ground disturbance or excavation: • For any project where earthmoving or ground disturbance activities are proposed at depths that encounter older Quaternary terrace deposits, a qualified paleontologist shall be present during excavation or earthmoving activities. • If paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the construction crew shall immediately cease work in the vicinity of the find and notify the City. The project applicant(s) shall retain a qualified paleontologist to evaluate the resource and prepare a recovery plan in accordance with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology guidelines (1996). The recovery plan may include, but is not limited to, a field survey, construction monitoring, sampling and data recovery procedures, museum storage coordination for any specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the recovery plan that are determined by the lead agency to be necessary and feasible shall be implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the paleontological resources were discovered. Project applicant During construction Verification during plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.4-4a The City shall require project applicants of discretionary projects to conduct historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports on a project -by -project basis, when a project proposes to alter, demolish, or degrade a designated landmark or a potential historic landmark as defined by Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 17.53. Project applicant At least 60 days prior to issuance of construction permits Verification during plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.4-4b The City shall maintain the "Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach" guide, and shall update the guide so that it is informed by current resource data and its goals and policies are consistent with the Land Use + Design Element City of Hermosa Beach Ongoing, and reviewed every five years at a minimum Self -reporting City of Hermosa Beach City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 4.0-5 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements 9 4 Compliance Verification Responsibility Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility MM 4.4-4c The City shall develop procedures and nomination applications to facilitate and streamline the designation of local historic sites and historic districts. City of Hermosa Beach By 2020 and revisited as the potential historic resources list is updated Self -reporting City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.4-4d Historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports shall be performed by persons who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation (48 CFR 44716). Project applicant At least 60 days prior to issuance of construction permits Verification during'plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach 4.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions MM 4.6 -la The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify and take specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6 - ib. City of Hermosa Beach Ongoing Self -reporting City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.6-1b The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with Tong -term state goals include: • 2020: 15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030: 49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels City of Hermosa Beach Beginning in 2020 and every five years thereafter until 2040 Self -reporting City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.6-1c The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan, and other appropriate tools when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the Climate Action City of Hermosa Beach Beginning in 2020 and every five years thereafter until 2040 Self -reporting City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0-6 • City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 • • 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements gResponsibility Compliance Verification Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility Plan, or other City policies and programs will include additional regulatory measures or incentives that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. 4.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials MM 4.7-2a For any development activities that would encroach upon or take place at the City's Maintenance Yard, the City shall require the preparation and implementation of a Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) and a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to be approved by the appropriate agencies. Project applicant Prior to issuance of construction permits Verification during plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach MM 4.7-2b Future discretionary projects involving the use of hazardous materials that may be accidentally released or encountered during construction shall be required to implement the following procedures: • Stop all work in the vicinity of any discovered contamination or release. • Identify the scope and immediacy of the problem. • Coordinate with responsible agencies (Department of Toxic Substances Control, Regional Water Quality Control Board, or US Environmental Protection Agency). • Conduct the necessary investigation and remediation activities to resolve the situation before continuing construction work as required by state and local regulations. Project applicant During construction Reporting to City and verification by City City of Hermosa Beach 4.11 Noise and Vibration MM 4.11-2 For development located at a distance within which acceptable vibration standards would be exceeded, the City shall require the applicant to have a structural engineer prepare a report demonstrating the following: • Vibration level limits based on building conditions, soil conditions, and planned demolition and construction methods to ensure vibration levels Project applicant At least 60 days prior to issuance of construction permits Verification during plan review of project City of Hermosa Beach City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 4.0-7 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM TABLE 4.0-1 PLAN HERMOSA - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Mitigation Measure Mitigation Requirements Compliance Verification Responsibility Party Timing Verification Method Verification Responsibility would not exceed acceptable levels where damage to structures using vibration levels in Draft EIR Table 4.11-4 as standards. • Specific measures to be taken during construction to ensure the specified vibration level limits are not exceeded. • A monitoring plan to be implemented during demolition and construction that includes post -construction and post -demolition surveys of existing structures that would be impacted. Examples of measures that may be specified for implementation during demolition or construction include but are not limited to: • Prohibition of certain types of impact equipment • Requirement for lighter tracked or wheeled equipment • Specifying demolition by non -impact methods, such as sawing concrete. • Phasing operations to avoid simultaneous vibration sources. • Installation of vibration measuring devices to guide decision-making for subsequent activities. PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.0-8 • City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Hermosa Beach City Council Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations For Adoption of PLAN Hermosa The Hermosa Beach City Council makes the following PLAN Hermosa Project findings. 1.0 CEQA FINDINGS Findings pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081 and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Sections 15090, 15091, 15092, 15162 and 15163. 1.1 CONSIDERATION OF THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT The Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) was presented to the Hermosa Beach City Council and all voting members of the City Council have reviewed and considered the FEIR and associated appendices prior to making a recommendation on the PLAN Hermosa. In addition, all voting members of the City Council have reviewed and considered testimony and additional information presented at or prior to the public hearings on July 11, 2017 and July 17, 2017. The FEIR reflects the independent judgment of the City Council and the City of Hermosa Beach and is adequate for this proposal. 1.2 FULL DISCLOSURE The City Council finds and certifies that the FEIR constitutes a complete, accurate, adequate and good faith effort at full disclosure under CEQA. The City Council further finds and certifies the FEIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA and Tribal Consultation requirements implemented under Assembly Bill 52 (2014). The omission of some detail or aspect of the Final EIR does not mean that it has been rejected by the City. 1.3 LOCATION OF RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS The documents and other materials that constitute the record of proceedings upon which this decision is based are in the custody of the City Clerk, City of Hermosa Beach, 1315 Valley Drive, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254. 1.4 FINDINGS REGARDING THE DRAFT PLAN HERMOSA AND THE FINAL EIR In response to comments from the public and other public agencies, the project has incorporated changes subsequent to publication of the Draft EIR. All of the changes to the Draft EIR are described in Chapter 3 of the Final EIR. Pursuant to CEQA, on the basis of the review and consideration of the Final EIR, the City finds: 1. Factual corrections and minor changes have been set forth as clarifications and modifications to the Draft EIR; 2. The factual corrections and minor changes to the Draft EIR are not substantial changes in the Draft EIR that would deprive the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment on a substantial adverse environmental effect of the Proposed Project, a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect, or a feasible project alternative; 3. The factual corrections and minor changes to the Draft EIR will not result in new significant environmental effects or substantially increase the severity of the previously identified significant effects disclosed in the Draft EIR; City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 1 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS 4. The factual corrections and minor changes in the Draft EIR will not involve mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the Draft EIR that would substantially reduce one or more significant effect on the environment; and 5. The factual corrections and minor changes to the Draft EIR do not render the Draft EIR so fundamentally inadequate and conclusory in nature that meaningful public review and comment would be precluded. Thus, none of the conditions set forth in CEQA requiring recirculation of a Draft EIR have been met. Incorporation of the factual corrections and minor changes to the Draft EIR into the Final EIR does not require the EIR be circulated again for public comment. Since the release of the Public Review Draft PLAN Hermosa (December 2015), the Planning Commission, Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission held public meetings to review the 2015 Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa between January 2016 and June 2016, and have recommended modifications to the document. The Planning Commission held a study session in November 2016 to review and take input on the Draft EIR. The Planning Commission then held public hearings in February and March 2017, continued over six meetings to hear from the community and go through the proposed plan line by line. Through that process the Commission further refined the proposed policies and implementation actions to reflect the community's long-term vision for the City. The changes to PLAN Hermosa that the Planning Commission recommended to the City Council were incorporated into the Planning Commission Recommended Draft of PLAN Hermosa. These changes included input from the Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission, and the public and were included as part of the Planning Commission's recommendation for City Council consideration. The City Council held four Study Sessions to review the Planning Commission recommendations and identify additional changes to PLAN Hermosa. The proposed changes to the project largely clarify and refine policy language without changing the intent of the PLAN's goals and objectives. A summary of the changes to PLAN Hermosa and associated implementation actions are provided below by area of environmental analysis: • Aesthetics and Visual Resources - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to policies and implementation actions that add greater specificity and certainty to the process of evaluating future impacts to scenic vistas and methods to avoid significant impacts by including a new map that establishes prominent public viewpoints and uninterrupted scenic viewing areas to PLAN Hermosa. The Planning Commission also recommended deletion of a policy that would direct the City to explore designation of Pacific Coast Highway as a State Scenic Highway. Since it is not currently designated as such, it would not create a new significant impact. Additionally, while changes have been made to policies and implementation actions used in the analysis of visual character and shade/shadow impacts, the changes do not substantially alter the intent or direction provided in the implementation action. The intent was to maintain the public scenic vistas, and through the CEQA process the policies and implementation actions have been improved to provide more certainty as to PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 2 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS how public scenic vistas will be maintained and considered when adjacent development is proposed. Further discussion of the changes to Aesthetics Mitigation Measures is provided in Section 1.5. • Air Quality - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to policies that are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policies used in the analysis of impacts to air quality or create new significant impacts because the policies and actions still address short-term construction emissions. The Planning Commission also recommended deletion of an implementation action related to grading and landform, however, the extent to which significant amounts of grading may occur on already undisturbed land in Hermosa Beach, because the community is largely built out, is limited and would still be subject to rules and regulations enforced by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Therefore the removal of this implementation action would not create a new or increased significant air quality impact. • Biological Resources - The Planning Commission did not recommend any significant modifications to policies or implementation actions that are used in the analysis of biological resources. • Cultural Resources - The Planning Commission recommended modification to one of the implementation actions associated with the analysis of archaeological and paleontological resources in response to comments from the Native American Heritage Commission and the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians. The change to the implementation action associated with archaeological and paleontological resources was made to add greater specificity and certainty to the process of avoiding resources during ground disturbance activities and would not create a new significant impact. The Planning Commission has recommended the modification and removal of policies and implementation actions related to historical resources to be clear that the designation of historic landmarks is a voluntary program, however the EIR already identified that the PLAN policies could result in a significant and avoidable impact related to historic resources. Further discussion of the changes to mitigation measures related to historic resources and findings that they are infeasible is provided in Section 1.5. • Geology and Soils - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to policies that are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policies used in the analysis of impacts to geology and soils that would create new significant impacts. The Planning Commission also recommended deletion of an implementation action related to grading and landform, however, the extent to which significant amounts of grading may occur on already undisturbed land in Hermosa Beach, because the community is largely built out, is limited and would still be subject to development standards and application requirements that address potential geology and soils hazards, therefore the removal of this implementation action would not create a new or increased significant geology and soils impact. • Greenhouse Gas Emissions - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to several policies associated with the analysis of impacts to greenhouse gas emissions that are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policy. The Planning Commission also recommended the removal of policies associated with the purchase of carbon City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 3 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS offsets and to not pursue carbon neutrality, however the analysis presented in Table 4.6-6 of the Draft EIR demonstrates that the "Purchase Offsets" line item, representing 30.1% of the emissions reductions, could be eliminated and the greenhouse gas thresholds to reduce emissions consistent with long-term State greenhouse gas reduction goals (66% below 2005 levels by 2040) would still be met or exceeded with a reduction of approximately 69.9%. The analysis in the Draft EIR related to greenhouse gas emissions specifically did not rely upon offsets to determine whether or not State goals would be met through the implementation of policies and therefore, the removal of policies related to offsets would not create a new significant impact related to greenhouse gas emissions. The City Council has also recommended modifications to the municipal greenhouse gas reduction goal based on further evaluation and deliberation. Rather than setting a goal to reach municipal carbon neutrality by 2020, Council has recommended a goal to meet or exceed an 80% reduction in municipal greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in comparison to 2005 levels. Given the progress between 2005 and 2015, the projects recently completed or anticipated to be completed in the next few years, and the previous direction from City Council not to pursue the use of carbon credits or offsets, the City is on course to reduce municipal emissions by approximately 58% by 2020 from 2005 levels, which exceeds the direct emissions reductions identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, but does not reach the previously adopted carbon neutral goal for municipal facilities by 2020. PLAN Hermosa includes Sustainability + Conservation Element Goal 1 to meet or exceed an 80% reduction in municipal greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels by 2030 through projects that will directly reduce emissions from municipal facilities and operations (rather than through offsets). While the goal does not commit to carbon neutrality for the municipality as previously indicated in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, Goal 1 and the associated policies will lead to a greater level of direct, measureable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions than identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. Given that the revised goal would result in a greater level or direct and measurable reductions in municipal greenhouse gas emissions, this change to the municipal greenhouse gas reduction goal would not create a new significant impact related to greenhouse gas emissions. • Hydrology and Water Quality - The Planning Commission did not recommend any significant modifications to policies or implementation actions that are used in the analysis of hydrology and water quality. The Planning Commission recommended the inclusion of new maps within PLAN Hermosa that more clearly depict the range of potential scenarios associated with sea level rise, however these updated maps do not present any greater flooding extent than was previously identified by the maps included in the Draft EIR and therefore would not create a new significant impact related to hydrology and water quality. • Land Use and Planning - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to several policies and implementation actions associated with the analysis of impacts to land use and planning. These changes are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policies but add PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 4 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS greater specificity and certainty to how the City will achieve consistency between the General Plan, Coastal Land Use Plan, and future updates to the Zoning Code. The Planning Commission has also recommended minor refinements to the Land Use Designations Map that covers less than a dozen parcels along PCH that had a Land Use Designation in the adopted General Plan of commercial uses, but zoning that allowed for residential development and over the course of the General Plan update have been redeveloped for residential use. These changes represent less than a fraction of a percent of the land area in Hermosa Beach and therefore would not create a new significant impact to land use and planning. • Mineral Resources - The Planning Commission did not recommend any modifications to policies or implementation actions that are used in the analysis of mineral resources. • Noise and Vibration - The Planning Commission did not recommend any significant modifications to policies or implementation actions that are used in the analysis of noise and vibration. • Population and Housing - The Planning Commission did not recommend any significant modifications to policies or implementation actions that are used in the analysis of population and housing. • Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities The Planning Commission recommended modifications to several policies and implementation actions associated with the analysis of public services, community facilities, and utilities. The Planning Commission did not propose changes to the policies or implementation actions used in the analysis that would increase demand for: fire protection and emergency medical services; law enforcement services; public schools; library facilities; or water supply and service, wastewater service, storm drainage. The Planning Commission has recommended changes to policies and implementation actions associated with the analysis of impacts to parks and recreation, solid waste disposal, and energy resources, but these changes are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policies that would create new significant impacts. The Planning Commission has also recommended modifications to the map of parks, open space and public facilities in Hermosa Beach to highlight some of the City's existing facilities such as the skate park that is located at the community center and to add smaller parkettes that were not previously identified. These changes to the map do not increase demand for parks and recreation, rather they highlight additional facilities that are already available to meet current and future demand and therefore would not create a new significant impact. • Transportation - The Planning Commission recommended modifications to several policies and implementation actions associated with the analysis of impacts to transportation. These changes are considered minor clarifications that do not alter the intent or objective of the policies but adds greater specificity and certainty to how the City will achieve consistency between the General Plan, Coastal Land Use Plan, and future updates to the Zoning Code. The Planning Commission also recommended minor refinements to the street classifications, pedestrian network, and bicycle and multi -use network maps and the addition of a proposed safe routes to school network to be incorporated into PLAN Hermosa. These changes to the map do not increase demand for such City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 5 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS facilities, rather they highlight certain routes that may be ideal for various bike and pedestrian improvements that would not affect level of service capacity, but could - help to improve safety and therefore would not create a new significant impact. Pursuant to Section 15088.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the changes would not result in any new significant environmental impacts nor substantially increase the severity of significant impacts described in the EIR. In reviewing the Implementation Actions, the Commission reviewed which implementation actions were specifically used in the EIR impact analysis to make sure that the changes would not alter the ultimate conclusions or analysis in the EIR. These changes to the implementation action are provided in the revised project description in Attachment 1 B. The minor revisions/clarifications to the policy language would not change any of the conclusions in the EIR. Substantial revisions to the EIR are not necessary and, recirculation of the EIR is not required. 1.5 FINDINGS ADDRESSING THE ISSUES ANALYZED IN THE FEIR 1.5.1 FINDINGS THAT NATIVE AMERICAN CONSULTATION WAS CONDUCTED In accordance with Senate Bill 18 (SB 18) and Government Code 69352.3, and Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) and Government Code 21000, the City of Hermosa Beach requested a list of Tribal Organization contacts from the Native American Heritage Commission in April 2014. The City of Hermosa Beach sent notifications to the appropriate tribal organizations in January 2015 in compliance with SB 18, and again in August 2015 to comply with AB 52. In response to these letters, the City received requests from the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation to conduct formal consultation with the tribes. Both tribes requested that an experienced, trained, and certified Native American monitor be present during ground disturbing activities related to the project. Following the initial request for consultation from the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians, the City pursued consultation. However, the Band has failed to provide comments to the City, or otherwise failed to engage, in the consultation process. Therefore, consultation with the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians has concluded under Cal. Pub. Res. Code § 21082.3(d)(2). The City has engaged in lengthy consultation with the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation, as noted in the Responses to Comment in the Final EIR NAHC 1 and GMBI-1-2. Since PLAN Hermosa is a program -level document that will not directly result in physical changes to the environment, the City proposed policies and implementation actions that take into consideration the tribal organization requests for subsequent projects with ground disturbance activities that may occur through implementation of PLAN Hermosa. To more explicitly address the Band's request for a Native American monitor to be present during ground disturbing activities, the City proposes amending implementation action LAND USE -23 to explicitly require the City to weigh and consider available evidence to determine whether there is a potential risk for disturbing or damaging any cultural or tribal resources and whether any precautionary measures can be required to reduce or eliminate that risk. Those precautions may include requiring construction workers to complete a training on PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 6 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS archaeological and tribal resources before any ground disturbance activity and/or requiring a qualified archaeologist or tribal representative to monitor some or all of the ground disturbance activities. This is an appropriate response for a Program -level analysis, since site specific impacts cannot be detailed at this time and would be speculative. This implementation action, as amended, would ensure the consultation requirements of AB 52 are followed by the City as a Lead Agency, and that requirements for Native American monitors to be present during ground -disturbing activities in which a tribe or archaeological investigation indicate the potential for tribal resources to be found are clear. Following multiple requests for feedback on the City's proposed response, the Band has not provided a formal response. The City has acted in good faith and has provided a reasonable effort to respond to the Band's request for monitors, but without a timely response, the City is unable to reach a mutual agreement. Consultation is hereby concluded. 1.5.2 FINDINGS THAT CERTAIN UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS ARE MITIGATED TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT FEASIBLE The FEIR for PLAN Hermosa identifies impacts in three resource areas — air quality, cultural resources, and transportation-- that cannot be fully mitigated and are therefore considered significant and unavoidable. The impact areas pertain to short- term impacts to air quality; potential changes to the significance of historical resources; and reductions to transportation and circulation Level of Service (LOS) performance standards at three intersections and one roadway segment. To the extent that the impacts remain significant and unavoidable such impacts are acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, legal, technical, and other considerations, including the beneficial effects of the project to the existing circulation and infrastructure, described in the Statement of Overriding Considerations included herein. For each of these significant and unavoidable impacts identified by the FEIR, feasible changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project to avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect, as discussed below: a. 4.2-2 Violate Air Quality Standards — Short -Term Impacts Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could generate air pollutant emissions from short-term construction. Although PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce short-term emissions, construction emissions would result in a significant impact. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 7 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Mitigation Measures: MM 4.2-2a Construction projects within the city shall demonstrate compliance with all applicable standards of the Southern California Air Quality Management District, including the following provisions of District Rule 403: • All unpaved demolition and construction areas shall be wetted at least twice daily during excavation and construction, and temporary dust covers shall be used to reduce dust emissions and meet SCAQMD Rule 403. Wetting could reduce fugitive dust by as much as 50 percent. • The construction area shall be kept sufficiently dampened to control dust caused by grading and hauling, and at all times provide reasonable control of dust caused by wind. • All clearing, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be discontinued during periods of high winds (Le., greater than 15 mph), so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • All dirt/soil loads shall be secured by trimming, watering, or other appropriate means to prevent spillage and dust. • All dirt/soil materials transported off-site shall be required to cover their Toads as required by California Vehicle Code Section 23114 to prevent excessive amount of dust. • General contractors shall maintain and operate construction equipment so as to minimize exhaust emissions. • Trucks having no current hauling activity shall not idle but shall be turned off. MM 4.2-2b In accordance with Section 2485 in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, the idling of all diesel -fueled commercial vehicles (weighing over 10,000 pounds) during construction shall be limited to 5 minutes at any location. MM 4.2-2c Construction projects within the city shall comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113 limiting the volatile organic compound content of architectural coatings. MM 4.2-2d Construction projects within the city shall install odor -reducing equipment in accordance with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1138. MM 4.2-2e Project applicants shall identify all measures to reduce air pollutant emissions below SCAQMD thresholds prior to the issuance of building permits. Should attainment of SCAQMD thresholds be determined to be infeasible, construction contractors shall provide evidence of this to the City and will be encouraged to apply for SCAQMD SOON funds. Finding: Even with the implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.2-2a through 4.2- 2e, SCAQMD Rule 403 and PLAN Hermosa policies, it is still anticipated that some projects would have the potential to generate daily construction emissions that exceed the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. Because the intensity and schedule of construction activities cannot be determined at the time of this program -level analysis, it would be speculative to conclude that any level of mitigation would reduce daily construction emissions below the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. Incentives could be provided for those construction contractors who apply for SCAQMD "SOON" funds. The "SOON" program provides funds to accelerate clean-up of off-road diesel vehicles, such as heavy duty construction equipment. In many cases, because of the amount of construction required for a project, even if all feasible mitigation is implemented, daily emissions could still exceed the significance thresholds. The City Council finds that the impact as stated above is substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures and that all feasible mitigation measures that are PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 8 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS appropriate at the Program -level have been incorporated. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). b. 4.2-7 Cumulative Air Quality Impacts Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of air quality emissions occurring within the basin and could affect the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. This would result in a cumulatively considerable impact. Mitigation Measures: Implement mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e. Finding: Even with the implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.2-2a through 4.2-2e, SCAQMD Rule 403 and PLAN Hermosa policies, it is still anticipated that future construction projects, in combination with other construction in the SCAQMD area, could have the potential to generate construction emissions that exceed the SCAQMD thresholds of significance on a cumulative basis. While the City of Hermosa Beach has the ability to reduce air quality impacts through the implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e, when combined with potential exceedances of SCAQMD thresholds of significance by other projects in the SCAQMD region, the contribution of projects in Hermosa Beach may be cumulatively considerable. The City Council finds that the impact as stated above is substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures and that no other feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project are available, and the City of Hermosa Beach jurisdiction to implement mitigation measures is limited to projects within Hermosa Beach. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). c. 4.4-4 Historical Resources Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Although implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and actions would protect historical resources, this would be a significant and unavoidable impact. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 9 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Mitigation Measures: MM 4.4-4a The City shall require project applicants of discretionary projects to conduct historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports on a project -by -project basis, when a project proposes to alter, demolish, or degrade a designated landmark or a potential landmark as defined by Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 17.53. MM 4.4-4b The City shall maintain the "Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach" guide, and shall update the guide so that it is informed by current resource data and its goals and policies are consistent with the Land Use + Design Element. MM 4.4-4c The City shall develop procedures and nomination applications to facilitate and streamline the designation of local historic sites and historic districts. MM 4.4-4d Historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports shall be performed by persons who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation (48 CFR 44716). Finding: • The Final EIR included a Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-4a that upon further review has been determined to be infeasible and the Planning Commission recommended this mitigation measure be removed in its entirety. First, it is unclear how this measure applies in Hermosa Beach, because the Municipal Code definitions for resources and landmarks are not the same as under CEQA, creating confusion as to what properties must be on a potential resource list. Second, CEQA already requires that environmental analysis be completed for any discretionary project that may impact an historic resource. CEQA applies to discretionary projects regardless of whether the City maintains a list of potential resources and by preparing a list of potential resources that identifies specific properties, the list could be misconstrued as a list of designated landmarks, which carry a different level of review and procedures established in the Historic Preservation Ordinance of the Municipal Code. For this reason, the proposed mitigation in infeasible. • MM4.4-4a is amended to clarify that discretionary projects are required under CEQA to conduct an historical assessment. The City does not have authority to require studies for ministerial projects and those projects only require ministerial building permits and do not receive any discretionary planning review. The measure is also amended to reflect the definition of landmark, as that term is used in the Hermosa Beach Historic Resource Preservation Ordinance. • The Final EIR included a Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-4f that upon further review has been determined to be infeasible and the Planning Commission recommended this mitigation measure be removed in its entirety. While the intent of MM 4.4-4f was to apply to designated historical landmarks, the wording could be interpreted more broadly and would effectively prohibit any changes to buildings considered to be potential historic resources and when modified to only apply to designated historical landmarks, it becomes duplicative with requirements under State Law regarding the treatment of designated historical resources, and interpreted more broadly could impede the City's greenhouse gas reduction and sustainability goals by (for example) preventing upgrades to structures to be more energy efficient. Implementation of the remaining mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4- 4d would reduce impacts on historical resources to the extent feasible. However, PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 10 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS impacts on potentially eligible historic structures could occur depending on the proposed uses, the cost of rehabilitation, and safety and other considerations. Thus, it may not be feasible in all circumstances to rehabilitate a structure and retain its historic significance. If a project applicant proposes to demolish an eligible structure, the City would consider the project's impacts prior to approval. The City Council finds that the impact as stated above is substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures, that all feasible mitigation measures that are appropriate at the Program -level have been incorporated, and that no other feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project are available. The Final EIR included a Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-4f that upon further review has been determined to be infeasible and that the City Council recommends this mitigation measure be removed in its entirety. While the intent of MM 4.4-4f was to apply to designated historical landmarks, the wording could be interpreted more broadly and would effectively prohibit any changes to buildings considered to be potential historic resources and when modified to only apply to designated historical landmarks, it becomes duplicative with requirements under State Law regarding the treatment of designated historical resources, and interpreted more broadly could impede the City's greenhouse gas reduction and sustainability goals. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). d. 4.4-8 Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. The loss of some historical resources may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. However, this would not ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures: Implement mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-d. Finding: Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-4d would not ensure that all historical resources would be protected and preserved within the South Bay Cities COG planning area. As described in the analysis presented in Impact 4.4-4, impacts on historic resources could still occur and the impact cannot be reduced to less than significant. The City Council finds that the impact as stated above is substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures, that no other feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project are available, and the City of Hermosa Beach jurisdiction to implement mitigation measures is limited to projects within Hermosa Beach. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 11 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). e. 4.14-1 a Intersections • Pacific Coast Hwy and Artesia Blvd Impact: The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard would be significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in both the morning and evening peak periods. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by Caltrans's plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway and alignment issues, as well as major change in roadway characteristics, east to west from Artesia Boulevard to Gould Avenue. Additionally, physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class Ill bicycle facility planned for Gould Avenue, as well as PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations and PLAN Hermosa and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts on traffic operations at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway & Artesia Boulevard cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level; therefore this would be a significant and unavoidable Impact. Mitigation Measures: No feasible mitigation measures are available to address the significant transportation and circulation impact. Finding: Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The emphasis was to identify physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations at which a vehicular -capacity based mitigation without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. The City Council finds that there are no feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project available to address or lessen the impact without conflicting with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies or decreasing the performance or safety of the facility. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 12 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS • Pacific Coast Hwv and Aviation Blvd Impact: The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by Caltrans's plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway and improvement plans for the intersection included in the Aviation Boulevard Master Pian, including enhanced crosswalks and repurposing of public right of way for parkettes, pedestrian space, or a crossing refuge. Additionally, physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class II bicycle facility planned for Aviation Boulevard, as well as PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations to improve level of service and PLAN Hermosa and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts to traffic operations at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway & Aviation Boulevard cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level; therefore this would be a significant and unavoidable impact. Mitigation Measures: No feasible mitigation measures are available to address the significant transportation and circulation impact. Finding: Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The emphasis was to identify physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations at which a vehicular -capacity based mitigation without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. The City Council finds that there are no feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project available to address or lessen the impact without conflicting with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies or decreasing the performance or safety of the facility. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). • Manhattan Ave and 27th St Impact: The intersection at Manhattan Avenue & 27th Street is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by existing narrow roadway widths. Additionally, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 13 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class III bicycle facility planned for 27th Street, and PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations to improve level of service and PLAN Hermosa policies and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts to traffic operations at the intersection of Manhattan Avenue & 27th Street cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level; therefore this would be a significant and unavoidable impact. Mitigation Measures: No feasible mitigation measures are available to address the significant transportation and circulation impact. Finding: Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The emphasis was to identify physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations at which a vehicular -capacity based mitigation without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. The City Council finds that there are no feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project available to address or lessen the impact without conflicting with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies or decreasing the performance or safety of the facility. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). f. 4.14-1 b Roadway Segments • Prospect Ave (Aviation Blvd to 2nd St) Impact: Through implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the roadway segment on Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street would be degraded from its current operation at an LOS C to an LOS D by 2040. While this is improved from the projected LOS E that would be experienced under the 2040 scenario without PLAN Hermosa, it still represents a significant impact. In other words, even though the PLAN Hermosa policies will reduce the degree of impact from the scenario where the PLAN is not adopted, the change in traffic still exceeds the threshold of significance. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 14 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS In order to reduce the projected LOS impacts along Prospect Avenue, the City would need to consider expanding the roadway to accommodate additional vehicles or consider policies that reduce the number of vehicles traveling along the corridor. However, the opportunities for expanding Prospect Avenue to reduce the impacts to LOS are limited by the narrow roadway widths and presence of on -street parking. Additionally, physical mitigations to expand roadway capacity along Prospect Avenue would conflict with the intent of SB 743 and many of the proposed PLAN Hermosa policies. Under SB 743 Section 21099(b) (2), vehicular capacity and traffic congestion would no longer be eligible as considerations of significant impact under CEQA. Guidelines established for the implementation of SB 743 further state that roadway capacity expansions in a congested corridor are presumed to cause a significant impact under CEQA due to their effects on induced travel. Physical mitigations would also conflict with the SBBMP bicycle friendly street bicycle facility planned for Prospect Avenue, and PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between capacity expansion mitigations and SB 743, the SBBMP, and PLAN Hermosa policies, the significant transportation impact to traffic operations along the segment of Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level; therefore this would be a significant and unavoidable impact. Mitigation Measures: No feasible mitigation measures are available to address the significant transportation and circulation impact. Finding: Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The removal of on -street parking along this roadway segment to accommodate an additional lane of travel would create untenable conditions in Hermosa Beach where parking supply is limited. Therefore it is not feasible. The emphasis was to identify physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations at which a vehicular -capacity based mitigation without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. The City Council finds that there are no feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project available to address or lessen the impact without conflicting with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies or decreasing the performance or safety of the facility. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 15 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS g. 4.14-7 Cumulative Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards Impact: PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the City in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within the city. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Nonetheless, three intersections and one segment would experience a cumulatively considerable impact. Mitigation Measures: No feasible mitigation measures are available to address the significant transportation and circulation impact. Finding: Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The emphasis was to identify physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations at which a vehicular -capacity based mitigation without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. The City Council finds that there are no feasible mitigation measures within the scope of the project available to address or lessen the impact without conflicting with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies or decreasing the performance or safety of the facility. The City Council further finds that although this impact would be significant and unavoidable, the impact is acceptable when weighed against the overriding social, economic, and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 1.6 of these Findings). 1.5.3 FINDINGS THAT CERTAIN IMPACTS ARE MITIGATED TO INSIGNIFICANCE The FEIR identifies subject areas for which the project is considered to cause or contribute to potentially significant environmental impacts. For each of these impacts identified by the FEIR, feasible mitigation measures have been incorporated into the project to reduce the environmental effect to a level that is less than significant, as discussed below: a. 4.1-1 Scenic Vistas and Viewsheds Impact: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts are substantially reduced by changes to the PLAN Hermosa Policies and Implementation Actions to a level that is considered to be less than significant. The PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, as revised, would ensure that existing view corridors that provide views of the Pacific Ocean, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Santa Monica PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 16 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Mountains, and the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains are maintained by identifying prominent and uninterrupted public views, specifying an evaluation process and offering development standard exceptions to projects that may substantially impede one of the identified public scenic vistas. Finding: The EIR reached the original impact conclusion (that mitigation was required) for Impact 4.1-1 because the policies and implementation actions did not include "specific provisions to protect public view corridors." Thus, mitigation was required. The proposed changes to the policies and actions related to public views are designed to provide more specificity on the expectation and process for identifying, evaluating, and addressing potential impacts to scenic vistas in a manner that is consistent with the Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. The greater level of specificity contained within the policies and implementation actions further helps to appropriately guide City staff and decision makers in the future to objectively and consistently and reasonably evaluate and mitigate impacts to scenic vistas, and provide the opportunity for setback, open space, landscaping or other relief to properties that may otherwise substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from a scenic vista. This allows the property owner to minimize the impact to a public view while providing the owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity (similar to a variance). The specific exception to be applied to each project will be evaluated on a project level to determine its appropriateness and compatibility with the neighborhood and the list of available exceptions will be specified in the zoning ordinance. Through the public hearing process, the community and commissioners have had an opportunity to synthesize PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, which shows the proposed Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Based on community and commissioner input, the Figure has been revised to remove two sites that do not meet the criteria for Prominent Public Views. The two views deleted include 8th Street at Loma Drive and El Oeste Drive. The 8th/Loma location can be deleted because the view is already surrounded by properties that have been developed close to or at the maximum extent allowed and therefore, future development during the life of the plan will not further impact the view beyond the existing development. The El Oeste viewpoint can be deleted because, while it presents a highly intact uninterrupted view, it does not meet the prominent viewpoint criteria of having a large number of public viewers. This location is at the end of a dead end residential street where the general public does not typically access, pass or congregate. Therefore, it would be unlikely to have a large number of public viewers. The language incorporated into the policies and actions has been changed such that properties adjacent to, rather than within 50 feet of, the Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas will be required to evaluate and reasonably mitigate any substantial impact to a public view. Additionally, portions of Implementation Action PARKS -12 have been removed because of their City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 17 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS specificity to appropriate colors and textures and the portions of the actions pertaining to public works projects have been incorporated into PARKS -11. To specify appropriate colors or textures to private property owners would go against a long-standing community policy against judging or dictating design. These language changes are also appropriate because the 50 foot requirement, as well as the requirements for specific screening methods or use of certain materials may not be appropriate in all situations and does not allow for any site specific flexibility. Additionally, the language was too precise for policy language and implementation actions (and for the originally proposed mitigation measure). These types of details are better worked out through the implementation process and development of the ordinance. In some cases 50 feet may be too far, and in others it may not be far enough. There are site specific conditions like width of the road, setback requirements, and building height limits (vary from 25-35 feet) that may require variation in the distance needed to analyze impacts to views. It is further noted that the changes to the policies and implementation actions related to public views achieve the same purpose as proposed Mitigation Measure MM 4.1-1, that the potential impact to scenic vistas is adequately mitigated to a level that is less than significant, and that no new significant impacts to Aesthetics have been identified based on these changes. b. 4.3-1 Special -Status Species Impact: PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in the development or expansion of beach -supporting uses that could adversely affect western snowy plover and California least tern. This would be a potentially significant impact. Mitigation Measures: MM 4.3-1 Construction of facilities on the beach that must occur between the months of April and August (roosting season for snowy plovers) will require preconstruction surveys to determine the presence of western snowy plovers or California least terns. If these species are present, no construction may occur until the species leave the roost based on review by a qualified biologist and consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). If the project is within a Special Protection Zone, construction activities will not be allowed until western snowy plovers are no longer present. If the area is not within a Special Protection Zone, a qualified biologist will survey the area for western snowy plovers using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if plovers are present. If they are present, no work will occur until after snowy plovers leave the roost site for the season. The qualified biologist will also survey the area for California least terns using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if California least terns are present. If surveys are negative for western snowy plovers or California least terns, work may proceed during the roosting period and the biologist will be present to monitor the establishment of the beach landing sites to ensure that no western snowy plovers or California least terns are injured or killed, should they arrive in the area subsequent to work commencing. The project will include fencing/walls that will prevent western snowy plovers or California least terns from entering the work areas. The biologist will conduct weekly site visits to ensure that fencing/walls are intact until construction activities are finished at the sites and all equipment is removed from the beach. The results of the preconstruction survey will be submitted to the City prior to the establishment of beach landing sites. All biological monitoring efforts will be documented in monthly compliance reports to the City. PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 18 City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be less than significant. Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.3-1 would specifically require that western snowy plovers or California least terns that roost on the beach are protected if they occur in an area proposed for beach -supporting facilities. c. 4.4-3 Paleontological Resources, Site, or Geologic Feature Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources, sites, or unique geologic features. This impact would be potentially significant. Mitigation Measures: MM 4.4-3 As a standard condition of approval for future development projects implemented under PLAN Hermosa that involve ground disturbance or excavation: • For any project where earthmoving or ground disturbance activities are proposed at depths that encounter older Quaternary terrace deposits, a qualified paleontologist shall be present during excavation or earthmoving activities. • If paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the construction crew shall immediately cease work in the vicinity of the find and notify the City. The project applicant(s) shall retain a qualified paleontologist to evaluate the resource and prepare a recovery plan in accordance with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology guidelines (1996). The recovery plan may include, but is not limited to, a field survey, construction monitoring, sampling and data recovery procedures, museum storage coordination for any specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the recovery plan that are determined by the lead agency to be necessary and feasible shall be implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the paleontological resources were discovered. Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be less than significant. Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.4-3 would provide for the appropriate treatment and/or preservation of paleontological resources, if encountered. For instance, a paleontological resource evaluation would consist of a paleontological resources records search through the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, a pedestrian survey of the project site (if applicable), a review of the land use history, and a review of geologic mapping and/or geotechnical reports. At that point, appropriate project - specific mitigation would be developed and implemented to mitigate impacts on the paleontological resource before construction activities can resume. d. 4.4-7 Cumulative Effects on Paleontological Resources Impact: Ground disturbance, earthmoving, and excavation activities associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa combined with construction activities in the City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 19 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS South Bay Cities COG planning area could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures: Implement mitigation measure MM 4.4-3. Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be Tess than significant. Ground disturbance, earthmoving, and excavation activities would occur under PLAN Hermosa and in the South Bay Cities COG planning area. Implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-3 would reduce impacts on paleontological resources by requiring that fossil specimens be recovered and recorded and undergo appropriate curation, in the event that resources are encountered during construction activities in Hermosa Beach. Thus, the city will not be contributing to any cumulative impact in the South Bay planning area. e. 4.6-1 Generate GHG Emissions Impact: PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional greenhouse gas emissions generated. However, the plan also includes numerous policies and actions to reduce or eliminate GHG emissions from both new and existing development through incentives and voluntary actions that will meet or exceed the long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals to reduce emissions at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 (see discussion on page 4.6-22) through direct and local programs. However, since the City is relying on incentive -based or voluntary actions to achieve GHG reduction goals, there is a lower degree of certainty that the emissions reductions thresholds would be met compared to regulatory or mandatory actions. This impact would be potentially significant. Mitigation Measures: MM 4.6 -la The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, or other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b. MM 4.6-1b The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with long-term state goals include: • 2020: 15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030: 49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels MM 4.6-1c The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the Climate Action Plan, or other City policies and programs will include PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 20 City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS additional regulatory measures that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met. Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be less than significant. Implementation of Mitigation Measures 4.6- 1 a through c, commits the City of Hermosa Beach to achieving specific emissions reduction targets within every five-year time period and modifying policies and programs, including the addition of new policies or modification of existing policies to become mandatory, to achieve greater levels of emissions reductions if the City falls short of meeting the established targets in MM 4.6-1 b. The implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in conjunction with mitigation measures MM 4.6 -la through MM 4.6-1c, will add the degree of certainty needed to determine that PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions and would not be cumulatively considerable. f. 4.7-2 Accidental Release of Hazardous Materials Impact: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could lead to accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce risks associated with the accidental release of hazardous materials. However, development of the City's Maintenance Yard or other sites in the city could release known or unknown hazardous materials which would be potentially significant. Mitigation Measures: MM 4.7-2a For any development activities that would encroach upon or take place at the City's Maintenance Yard, the City shall require the preparation and implementation of a Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) and a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to be approved by the appropriate agencies. MM 4.7-2b Future discretionary projects involving the use of hazardous materials that may be accidentally released or encountered during construction shall be required to implement the following procedures: • Stop all work in the vicinity of any discovered contamination or release. Identify the scope and immediacy of the problem. • Coordinate with responsible agencies (Department of Toxic Substances Control, Regional Water Quality Control Board, or US Environmental Protection Agency). • Conduct the necessary investigation and remediation activities to resolve the situation before continuing construction work as required by state and local regulations. Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be less than significant. Implementation of Mitigation Measures MM City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 21 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS g. 4.7-2a and MM 4.7-2b would ensure that accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment, either from redevelopment at the City Yard of from unknown contamination, would be remediated in accordance with state and local regulations in a manner that would protect public health during construction activities and later use of the site. 4.11-2 Groundborne Vibrations or Groundborne Noise Levels Impact: PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that may expose persons to or generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels. This is a potentially significant impact. Mitigation Measures: MM 4.11-2 For development located at a distance within which acceptable vibration standards would be exceeded, the City shall require the applicant to have a structural engineer prepare a report demonstrating the following: ▪ Vibration level limits based on building conditions, soil conditions, and planned demolition and construction methods to ensure vibration levels would not exceed acceptable levels where damage to structures using vibration levels in Draft EIR Table 4.114 as standards. ▪ Specific measures to be taken during construction to ensure the specified vibration level limits are not exceeded. • A monitoring plan to be implemented during demolition and construction that includes post -construction and post -demolition surveys of existing structures that would be impacted. Examples of measures that may be specified for implementation during demolition or construction include but are not limited to: • Prohibition of certain types of impact equipment. • Requirement for lighter tracked or wheeled equipment. • Specifying demolition by non -impact methods, such as sawing concrete. • Phasing operations to avoid simultaneous vibration sources. • Installation of vibration measuring devices to guide decision-making for subsequent activities. Finding: The City Council finds that the potentially significant impacts, as stated above, are substantially reduced by the identified mitigation measures to a level that is considered to be Tess than significant. Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.11-2 would minimize impacts on sensitive structures from groundborne vibration to acceptable levels. 1.5.4 FINDING THAT MITIGATION OF CERTAIN IMPACTS IS WITHIN THE RESPONSIBILITY AND JURISDICTION OF ANOTHER PUBLIC AGENCY No mitigation measures identified in the FEIR are within the responsibility or jurisdiction of another public agency. 1.5.5 FINDINGS THAT IDENTIFIED PROJECT ALTERNATIVES OR MITIGATION MEASURES ARE NOT FEASIBLE All mitigation measures discussed herein are feasible. Where potential mitigation has been deemed infeasible, it is discussed in the DEIR and above sections. All feasible PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 22 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS mitigation has been recommended and incorporated into the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for this project. The FEIR examines three alternatives: • Alternative 1 - Retain Existing General Plan/ Coastal Land Use Plan • Alternative 2 - Achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030 • Alternative 3 - Stronger Retention of Visual and Cultural Resources a. Alternative 1: Retain Existing General Plan/ Coastal Land Use Plan Alternative: This alternative assumes that PLAN Hermosa would not be implemented and that future development would proceed as indicated in the existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan. Hermosa Beach would continue to grow and develop consistent with currently allowable land uses according to the existing 1980 Land Use Element (Figure 33); however, redevelopment patterns would be expected to be similar to PLAN Hermosa because the same infill properties would be vacant or available for redevelopment, resulting in increased intensity of development within an identical development footprint as PLAN Hermosa. Table 6.0-2 provides an estimate of what density or intensity of development is estimated to be allowed under the adopted General Plan, compared to the proposed densities and intensities of PLAN Hermosa. Note that the existing General Plan does not include Floor Area Ratios (FAR) but has setback and height requirements which can be used to calculate an estimate of FAR allowed based on recent approved or constructed projects. Table 6.0-2 Comparison of Allowed/Estimated Density and Intensity Source: City of Hermosa Beach, 2015. Italicized lines indicate new or altered land use designations introduced through PLAN Hermosa. This alternative is analyzed in this EIR, as it is required under CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e). According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) (2), the "no project" analysis shall discuss "what is reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 23 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report No Project Alternative Proposed under PLAN Hermosa Allowed Density/Intensity Comparison of No Project to PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designation Max Min Max Low Density (du/ac) 13.0 2.0 13.0 Similar Medium Density (du/ac) 25.0 13.1 25.0 Similar High Density (du/ac) 33.0 25.1 33.0 Similar Mobile Home (du/ac) 13.0 2.0 13.0 Similar Neighborhood Commercial (FAR) 1.0 0.5 1.0 Similar Community Commercial (FAR) 1.75 0.5 1.25 Greater Recreational Commercial (FAR) 2.5 1.0 1.75 Greater Gateway Commercial(FAR) 1.5 1.0 2.0 Lesser Service Commercial(FAR) 1.0 0.25 0.5 Greater Light Industrial Creative (FAR) 0.75 0.25 1.0 Lesser Public Facilities(FAR) n/a 0.1 1.0 Similar Open Space (FAR) n/a 0.0 0.1 Similar City Beach(FAR) n/a 0.0 0.05 Similar Source: City of Hermosa Beach, 2015. Italicized lines indicate new or altered land use designations introduced through PLAN Hermosa. This alternative is analyzed in this EIR, as it is required under CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e). According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) (2), the "no project" analysis shall discuss "what is reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 23 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS the project were not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services." As shown in Table 6.0-2, the No Project Alternative would allow for similar levels of residential development as PLAN Hermosa. For nonresidential development, the No Project Alternative would allow for greater levels of development in the Community Commercial, Recreational Commercial, Service Commercial designations, and lesser levels of development in the Gateway Commercial and Light Industrial Creative designation than is proposed under PLAN Hermosa. All other nonresidential or institutional categories propose similar levels of allowed development intensity for both PLAN Hermosa and the No Project Alternative. Additionally, as shown in Table 6.0-3 (No Project/Existing General Plan Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips Generated), Alternative 1 would result in 30,000 more VMT per day and 2,600 more daily vehicle trips compared to PLAN Hermosa. Table 6.0-3 No Project/Existing General Plan Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips Generated Scenario Daily Vehicle Miles Traveled Daily Vehicle Trips 2040No Project Alternative 356,000 37,200 2040 PLAN Hermosa 326,000 34,600 Source: City of Hermosa Beach Traffic Study 2015 Finding: The City Council finds that: Protect Objectives The No Project Alternative would only partially meet the project objectives established for PLAN Hermosa. The existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan can reasonably achieve project objectives to enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy (Objective 2) and provide a safe and clean natural environment (Objective 4) by relying on the existing policies and programs related to economic development and resource conservation. Additionally, the existing General Plan contains an element on Urban Design, however it fails to establish various character areas and identify the unique characteristics of each area, making it difficult to effectively achieve project Objective 1, to preserve the city's small beach town character. Finally, while the existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan contain policies and programs to reduce vehicle miles traveled and expand alternative modes of transportation, these documents do not identify promoting healthy and active lifestyles (Objective 3) and achieving a low -carbon future (Objective 5) as the primary motivation for including such policies, nor do the mobility policies and programs contained within the existing General Plan advance the reduction in VMT enough to claim that they can effectively achieve Objectives 3 and 5. Comparison of Environmental Impacts The No Project Alternative would not lessen any environmental impacts compared to the proposed project, and instead would have greater impacts to aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, noise and vibration, public services, community facilities, and utilities, and transportation. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 24 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS • Feasibility Alternative 1 is infeasible as it would not meet the updated goals and policies clearly expressed by the City of Hermosa Beach and set forth in the PLAN Hermosa such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating a vibrant local economy and a fostering a healthy and safe environment. The City is committed to providing the community with a current, long-range planning document that is reflective of the changing conditions and new state requirements (i.e., AB 32 and SB 375), as well as consistent with current planning trends, as proposed in the PLAN Hermosa. The existing General Plan does not address current planning trends or new state requirements. Because of these factors, the existing General Plan would not adequately address the economic, environmental, and social needs of the community. Given that this alternative would not achieve the project objectives and also would not lessen any environmental impacts compared to the proposed project, the City Council finds that this alternative is infeasible. b. Alternative 2: Achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030 Alternative: This alternative would be focused on achieving a community -wide goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. Carbon neutrality is the state of achieving net zero carbon emissions, generally by balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset by the community. There are two primary differences between this alternative and the Public Review draft of PLAN Hermosa which included a goal to achieve carbon neutrality no later than the year 2040: 1. expediting achievement of a carbon neutral goal by ten years from 2040 to 2030 and 2. bypassing the use of carbon credits to offset carbon emissions that could not be eliminated. Changing these two parameters would have a number of effects on the proposed project. While the total level of local reductions needed to achieve a carbon neutral goal by 2030 or 2040 are virtually identical, the number of years to achieve the goal would be reduced from 24 years to just 14. A 2030 goal would necessitate the implementation of new policies and programs each year to reduce emissions at a rate of 6,750 MTCO2e/yr, compared to annual reductions of 3,975 MTCO2e/yr for a 2040 goal. To do this, the following steps would be taken to modify PLAN Hermosa to increase and accelerate the rate of carbon emissions reductions from the energy, waste and transportation sectors: • Require onsite renewable energy generation and Zero Net Energy as part of all new construction and major building renovations. • Mandate retrofits to existing buildings to improve energy efficiency at time of sale, through rental inspections, and prior to issuance of building permits. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 25 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS • Eliminate the use of natural gas within the city through the installation of biogas technologies and electrification of heating and cooking appliances and fixtures within the building stock. • Participate in a Community Choice Aggregation program or other similar program and procure or generate renewable energy to account for 100% of the energy portfolio by increasing the rate of installation for local renewable energy generation sources or procuring long-term renewable energy contracts for sources outside of the city. • Modify Land Use Designations to facilitate mixed-use development and increase commercial and residential densities within the Community Commercial and Gateway Commercial designations to facilitate shorter trips lengths and increase the number of trips captured internally. • Mandate public and private clean fuel and electric vehicle infrastructure to facilitate deployment of electric vehicles, neighborhood electric vehicles and/or clean fuel vehicles. • Modify parking standards and programs to disincentivize conventionally fueled automobile use, and incentivize alternative modes of transportation and zero - emission vehicle use through programs that include, but are not limited to: increases in the cost of public -parking, elimination of parking minimums and establishment of maximums for new development, elimination of practices to assign parking spaces to particular uses, and changes to the preferential parking permit program. • Pursue regional transportation projects and infrastructure to facilitate carbon -free regional travel options. • Mandate Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs for institutions and businesses. • Accelerate the implementation of pedestrian and bicycle network investments, electric vehicle and alternative fuel infrastructure, programs to achieve zero waste, and net zero energy requirements. This Carbon Neutral by 2030 Alternative with the added or modified policies would result in greater levels of emissions reductions compared to the policies and programs proposed in PLAN Hermosa, as noted in Table 6.0-4. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 26 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Table 6.0-4 Comparison of Emissions Reduction Scenarios 2030 vs 2040 City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 27 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 2.3:i),.1.:',.1,'.1 • t t, cz6L) 7e ' (j i6,A t"V�- y \ ,l 4gL.. A7:y' yjA il Baseline 2005 Emissions 137,160 137,160 2012 Emissions -7.7% 126,610 -7.7% 126,610 BAU Emissions (2040) +1.2% 128,290 +5.0% 133,430 State Programs (2040) -24.6% 33,750 -27.7% 38,010 Local Remaining Emissions to be Reduced 94,540 95,420 I 1 Buildin • Efficien New Construction Residential Efficiency -0.8% 1,090 -1.3% 1,810 Existing Buildings Residential Efficiency -4.4% 6,100 -4.4% 6,100 New Construction Non -Residential Efficiency -1.2% 1,690 -2.0% 2,810 Existing Buildings Non -Residential Efficiency -2.0% 2,770 -2.0% 2,770 Sub Total -8.5% 11,650 9.8%.,... 13,490..:.. R. so•' n -r. J T i Rooftop Solar -5.8% 8,020 -5.9% 8,100 Community Solar -27.0% 36,990 -0.4% 550 Renewable Energy Procurement -7.5% 10,290 -7.3% 10,010 Purchased Renewables (Green Rate) ' -0.0% 0 -0.0% 0 Sub Total -40.3% 55,300 -13.6% 18,660 rans • ortation + Land Use Land Use & Transportation Alternatives -8.1% 11,130 -4.0% 5,500 Additional Transportation Strategies -3.2% 4,450 -1.9% 2,560 Electric Vehicles -5.7% 7,750 -7.4% 10,100 Sub Total : ... ._,........_ .,.-17.0% _ .: 23,330... -13.0%....... 18,160 .... Waste + Recycling -2.5% 3,430 -2.5% 3,480 Water + Wastewater -0.6% 840 -0.2% 330 Purchase Offsets -0.0% 0 -30.1% 41,310 Sub Total -3.1% 4,270 -32.9% 45,120 OTAL -100.0% 94,540 -100.0% 95,420 Source: City of Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool 2015. City of Hermosa Beach Revised August 2017 27 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Finding: The City Council finds that: • Proiect Obiectives The Carbon Neutral by 2030 Alternative has the ability to substantially support each of the project objectives identified. Implementation of this alternative would prioritize the achievement of a low or no carbon future (Objective 5), while also providing a safe and clean natural environment (Objective 4) and promoting healthy and active lifestyles through land use and transportation investments (Objective 3) by reducing air quality and transportation impacts compared to the proposed project. This alternative would also meet Objective 2, enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy, as many of the land use and transportation policies that reduce vehicle miles traveled do so by providing a greater range of daily services and employment opportunities within closer proximity so that residents may reasonably choose to utilize alternative modes of transportation. ▪ Comparison of Environmental Impacts This alternative could pose greater impacts to aesthetics and biological resources due to increased use of renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, or ocean -based renewable energy sources, and greater impacts to cultural resources due to greater alteration or demolition of designated or potentially eligible historic resources to construct high energy performance buildings. While the impacts to aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources may be greater than the proposed project, it is unknown whether they would rise to the level of being considered a significant impact, because the specific design and location of additional renewable energy projects cannot be determined at this time. This alternative would also have far reaching environmental benefits for Hermosa Beach by decreasing impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, noise and vibration, and transportation. Air pollutants associated with the burning of fuel for building energy and transportation uses would be reduced. Noise levels would likely be somewhat better as the primary source of noise in Hermosa Beach is automobile use. Reduced automobile use and an increase in electric vehicles, which are quieter than gasoline and diesel powered vehicles, would reduce noise levels. Transportation impacts would also likely be decreased as this alternative would result in a reduction in vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled. • Feasibility Alternative 2 is infeasible because this alternative could pose greater environmental impacts compared to the proposed project to aesthetics and visual resources, biological resources, and cultural resources. Additionally, it could be cost prohibitive, with mandates that are overly -burdensome on residents if they are carried out to require upgrades prior to the end of useful life of vehicles, equipment or other building materials. It is also burdensome to limit natural gas from homes, restaurants and hotels. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 28 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS c. Alternative 3: Stronger Retention of Visual and Cultural Resources Alternative: This alternative would focus on implementing additional policies or implementation actions that would facilitate greater retention of visual and cultural resources in Hermosa Beach. While PLAN Hermosa includes several goals and policies to address community character, historic buildings, and scenic views, they largely do so in a manner that encourages rather than mandates the protection of these resources. To facilitate greater retention of the existing visual and cultural resources in Hermosa Beach the steps taken to modify PLAN Hermosa would include: • Reduction in density or establishment of Floor Area Ratios (FAR) for Medium and High Density Residential (reduce capacity to encourage retention of existing buildings that contribute to the character of residential neighborhoods). • Establishment of an overall cap or reduction in development intensity for the Community Commercial and Recreational Commercial land use designations to limit the scale and amount of additional development or increased redevelopment within those areas. • Addition of mixed use designation to allow limited residential development, in conjunction with commercial uses, accommodating the projected population growth reduced through changes to medium and high-density designations. • Development of design standards (as opposed to guidelines) to address the compatibility of building scale, design aesthetics, and community character for residential and commercial neighborhoods. • Addition of historic resource protection policies, including City initiation of historic landmark designation of potentially eligible historic resources. • Achievement as a Certified Local Government (CLG) by the California Office of Historic Preservation, including establishment of an historic preservation commission. • Development of a historic preservation plan, historic context statement, and/or historic preservation element of the General Plan. • Establishment of view protection ordinances and development standards to physically depict building form/massing in the evaluation of a project's impact on views. • Change the issuance of a demolition permit from a ministerial action to a discretionary action for those properties that have been identified as a potentially eligible historic resource. This Character Retention Alternative, with the added or modified policies, would result in greater levels of certainty that cultural and visual resources would be retained, compared to the policies and programs proposed in PLAN Hermosa. However, the policies in this alternative may also discourage the redevelopment, reuse, or renovation of existing buildings and structures which will be necessary to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Finding: The City Council finds that: ▪ Project Objectives The Character Retention Alternative prioritizes achievement of Objective 1, preserve the city's small beach town character, and Objective 2, to enhance and support a strong, diverse and vibrant local economy through safe and City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 29 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS beautiful commercial corridors, but would not conflict or prevent the achievement of the other project objectives. This alternative would provide similar policies and implementation actions to PLAN Hermosa related to the mobility network, transportation enhancements, and resource conservation, meaning it would equally achieve project Objective 3 to promote healthy and active lifestyles and project Objective 4 to provide a safe and clean environment including clean air and water. While this alternative may have a slightly greater impact on greenhouse gas emissions, it would carry forward similar policies to PLAN Hermosa related to reducing emissions from transportation sources, water conservation, and diverting solid waste from landfills to support a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions partially consistent with Project Objective 5, to achieve a low or no carbon future. However, reductions in the amount of new development allowed could mean limited opportunities to realize certain sustainability programs. Comparison of Environmental Impacts This Character Retention Alternative would pose greater impacts to greenhouse gas emissions compared to PLAN Hermosa. The challenge of renovating or constructing high energy performance buildings in a manner that does not diminish the significance of a historical resource or cause potentially eligible historic resources to become ineligible due to alterations that are inconsistent with standards for the treatment of historical resources is presented in this alternative. This alternative would also reduce impacts associated with aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, and cultural resources, where both construction related air quality impacts and significance of a historical resource are both considered significant and unavoidable impacts under implementation of PLAN Hermosa. However, it is unknown whether this alternative would lessen these impacts to levels that are considered less than significant. • Feasibility The Final EIR included an Alternative focused on Greater Retention of Character (Alternative 3). Alternative 3 is not feasible because it would potentially cause greater impacts to one category, greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the City does not have the staff or expertise to establish a historic preservation commission. Throughout the years, the community has opposed design restrictions (often referred to as art juries) in favor of allowing individual property owners to design as they please within the confines of development standards. To do otherwise would go against a long-standing community policy. The community has also consistently rejected the idea of a private view protection ordinance, because a view protection ordinance favors the views of those who have already built to the height limit over those properties that have not yet built up. Rather, the community values a more fair system, whereby each property can build to a set height limit that applies universally to the entire zone. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 30 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Environmentally Superior Alternative: CEQA requires a lead agency to identify the "environmentally superior alternative". Based on the alternative analysis, both the Carbon Neutral by 2030 and Character Retention Alternatives would reduce several of the categories listed as Potentially Significant or Significant and Unavoidable under the proposed project. The No Project Alternative would have potentially greater impacts to several categories, including: aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, cultural resources, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, noise and vibration, public services, and transportation. The Carbon Neutrality by 2030 Alternative would also have potentially greater impacts to aesthetics and visual resources, biological resources, and cultural resources, while the Character Retention Alternative would only cause potentially greater impacts to one category, greenhouse gas emissions. 1.6 STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS Pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(b) and the CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, the City has balanced the benefits of the proposed PLAN Hermosa against the unavoidable adverse impacts associated with the proposed project and has adopted all feasible mitigation measures. The City has also examined alternatives to the proposed project, and has determined that adoption and implementation of the proposed project is the most desirable, feasible, and appropriate action. 1.6.1 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS The proposed project would result in the following unavoidable significant adverse impacts after mitigation: 1. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could generate air pollutant emissions from short-term construction. Although PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce short-term emissions, construction emissions would result in a significant impact. 2. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of air quality emissions occurring within the basin and affect the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. This would result in a cumulatively considerable impact. 3. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Although implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and actions would protect historical resources, this would be a potentially significant impact. 4. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. The loss of some historical resources may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. However, this would not ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 31 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS 5. The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard would be significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in both the morning and evening peak periods. 6. The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. 7. The intersection at Manhattan Avenue & 27th Street is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. 8. Through implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the roadway segment on Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street would be degraded from its current operation at an LOS C to an LOS D by 2040. While this is improved from the projected LOS E that would be experienced under the 2040 scenario without PLAN Hermosa, it still represents a significant impact. 9. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the City in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within the city. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Nonetheless, three intersections and one segment would experience a cumulatively considerable impact. 1.6.2 PROJECT BENEFITS The City has balanced the proposed project's benefits against its significant and unavoidable impacts. The City finds that the proposed project's benefits outweigh the significant and unavoidable impacts and, therefore, that those impacts are acceptable in light of the proposed project's benefits. The City finds that each of the following benefits is an overriding consideration, independent of the other benefits, that warrants approval of the proposed project notwithstanding the proposed project's significant and unavoidable impacts related to air quality, cultural resources, and transportation. The proposed project would provide several public benefits as described below: 1. Provides a comprehensive update to the City's General Plan, last adopted in 1979, and the City's Coastal Land Use Plan, certified by the Coastal Commission in 1982, to reflect the community's values and vision for the City, provides updated policy directives to guide development in the City over the next 25 years, and addresses topics that have emerged as important priorities since the last update including greenhouse gas emissions, sea level rise, complete streets, infrastructure. 2. The proposed PLAN is more focused and user-friendly, comprehensively addresses recent changing conditions in the City, and would implement smart growth principles, concepts of sustainable development and resource management, and environmental protection. 3. Preserves the city's small beach town character through policies and design standards that maintain buildings at an appropriate scale and size with existing ones and recognizes the unique features of the city's eclectic residential neighborhoods. 4. Enhances and supports a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy through policies that stimulate sustainable businesses and jobs, enhance safe and PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report Revised August 2017 32 PROJECT FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS beautiful commercial corridors, articulate clear and consistent standards for new businesses, and provide convenient services to residents, employees, and visitors. 5. Promotes healthy and active lifestyles through land use and transportation improvements that enhance pedestrian, transit, and bike safety and access to a variety of destinations in the city. 6. Provide a safe and clean natural environment - including clean air and water - and stewardship of our ocean resources, open space, and other natural resources. 7. Will help the City achieve a low -carbon future through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by reducing fuel consumption, diverting solid waste from landfills, conserving water and improving the efficiency of energy use and utilizing renewable energy sources, benefitting the local and global environment. 8. The transportation system in the PLAN strategically links land use and transportation to make efficient use of the existing roadway capacity through the promotion of a multi -modal circulation system, including improvements to the pedestrian, transit, and bicycling environment in the City of Hermosa Beach. 9. Through its sustainability policies, the PLAN would help promote energy efficiency, the conservation of water resources, and encourage the reduction of waste through recycling, providing a local, statewide, national and ultimately global benefit. Finding: The proposed project represents a balance between several competing objectives in the City of Hermosa Beach. After balancing the specific economic, legal, social, and technological, and other benefits of the proposed project, the Planning Commission has determined that the unavoidable adverse environmental impacts identified may be considered acceptable due to the specific considerations listed above which offset the unavoidable, adverse environmental impacts that will be caused by implementation of the project. Based on the foregoing findings and the information contained in the record it is hereby determined that: • All significant Aesthetics, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Noise and Vibration, and Transportation effects on the environment due to approval of the project have been eliminated or substantially lessened where feasible; and • Any remaining significant Air Quality, Cultural Resources, and Transportation effects on the environment found to be unavoidable are acceptable due to the factors described in the Statement of Overriding Considerations above. 1.7 ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING AND MONITORING PROGRAM Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(d) require the City to adopt a reporting or monitoring program for the changes to the project that it has adopted or made a condition of approval in order to avoid or substantially lessen significant effects on the environment. The monitoring program is hereby adopted for the project. The monitoring program is designed to ensure compliance with required mitigation measures. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa Revised August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 33 City Hallt�i Library Post Otr ce Fire Dept. city of hermosa beach PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report Volume II: Revised Draft EIR SCH# 2015081009 • August 2017 • • CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH PLAN HERMOSA REVISED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT SCH #2015081009 Prepared for: CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH 1315 VALLEY DRNE HERMOSA BEACH, CA 90254 Prepared by: MICHAEL BAKER INTERNATIONAL 1 KAISER PLAZA, SUITE 1150 OAKLAND, CA 94612 AUGUST 2017 • TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0.1 Project Under Review 1.0-1 1.0.2 Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures 1.0-1 1.0.3 Alternatives to the Project 1.0-2 1.0.4 Potential Areas of Controversy 1.0-3 1.0.5 Summary Table 1.0-3 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.0.1 Project Background 2.0-1 2.0.2 Legislative Background 2.0-1 2.0.3 Environmental Setting/Definition of the Baseline and EIR Assumptions 2.0-2 2.0.4 Purpose of the Program Environmental Impact Report 2.0-4 2.0.5 Public Review of Draft EIR and Lead Agency Contact 2.0-6 2.0.6 Scope of This Draft EIR 2.0-6 2.0.7 How to Use This Report 2.0-7 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0.1 Regional Setting 3.0-1 3.0.2 Hermosa Beach 3.0-1 3.0.3 Project Objectives 3.0-5 410 3.0.4 Project Characteristics 3.0-5 3.0.5 Project Approvals 3.0-37 3.0.6 Lead, Responsible, and Trustee Agencies 3.0-38 3.0.7 References 3.0-39 • 4.0 INTRODUCTION TO THE ANALYSIS 4.0.1 Baseline Existing Conditions Assumed in the Analysis 4.0-1 4.0.2 Document Structure 4.0-1 4.0.3 Format of Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.0-2 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES 4.1.1 Introduction 4.1-1 4.1.2 Environmental Setting 4.1-1 4.1.3 Regulatory Setting 4.1-9 4.1.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.1-10 4.1.5 References 4.1-24 4.2 AIR QUALITY 4.2.1 Introduction 4.2-1 4.2.2 Environmental Setting 4.2-1 4.2.3 Regulatory Setting 4.2-2 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report TABLE OF CONTENTS 4.2.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.2-3 4.2.5 References 4.2-24 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.3.1 Introduction 4.3-1 4.3.2 Environmental Setting 4.3-1 4.3.3 Regulatory Setting 4.3-10 4.3.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.3-11 4.3.5 References 4.3-19 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 4.4.1 Introduction 4.4-1 4.4.2 Environmental Setting 4.4-2 4.4.3 Regulatory Framework 4.4-10 4.4.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.4-12 4.4.5 References 4.4-24 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 4.5.1 Introduction 4.5-1 4.5.2 Environmental Setting 4.5-1 4.5.3 Regulatory Setting 4.5-7 4.5.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.5-8 4.5.5 References 4.5-14 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 4.6.1 Introduction 4.6-1 4.6.2 Environmental Setting 4.6-1 4.6.3 Regulatory Setting 4.6-6 4.6.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.6-9 4.6.5 References 4.6-31 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 4.7.1 Introduction 4.7-1 4.7.2 Environmental Setting 4.7-1 4.7.3 Regulatory Setting 4.7-2 4.7.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.7-4 4.7.5 References 4.7-11 4.8. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 4.8.1 Introduction 4.8-1 4.8.2 Environmental Setting 4.8-1 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 ii • TABLE OF CONTENTS 4.8.3 Regulatory Setting 4.8-8 4.8.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.8-14 4.8.5 References 4.8-33 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 4.9.1 Introduction 4.9-1 4.9.2 Environmental Setting 4.9-1 4.9.3 Regulatory Framework 4.9-4 4.9.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.9-5 4.9.5 References 4.9-26 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES 4.10.1 Introduction 4.10-1 4.10.2 Environmental Setting 4.10-1 4.10.3 Regulatory Setting 4.10-1 4.10.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.10-3 4.10.5 References 4.10-4 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION 4.11.1 Introduction 4.11-1 • 4.11.2 Environmental Setting 4.11-1 4.11.3 Regulatory Setting 4.11-10 4.11.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.11-11 4.11.5 References 4.11-26 4.12 POPULATION AND HOUSING 4.12.1 Introduction 4.12-1 4.12.2 Environmental Setting 4.12-1 4.12.3 Regulatory Setting 4.12-4 4.12.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.12-5 4.12.5 References 4.12-10 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.1 Introduction 4.13-1 4.13.2 Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services 4.13-4 4.13.3 Law Enforcement Services 4.13-9 4.13.4 Public Schools 4.13-13 4.13.5 Parks and Recreation 4.13-18 4.13.6 Library Facilities 4.13-27 4.13.7 Water Supply and Service; Wastewater Service; Storm Drainage 4.13-29 4.13.8 Solid Waste 4.13-43 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report iii TABLE OF CONTENTS 4.13.9 Energy 4.13-49 4.13.10 References 4.13-62 4.14 TRANSPORTATION 4.14.1 Introduction 4.14-1 4.14.2 Environmental Setting 4.14-1 4.14.3 Regulatory Setting 4.14-18 4.14.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.14-27 4.14.5 References 4.14-46 5.0 OTHER CEQA-REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS 5.0.1 Introduction 5.0-1 5.0.2 Significant and Unavoidable Impacts 5.0-1 5.0.3 Significant Irreversible Environmental Effects 5.0-2 5.0.4 Growth -Inducing Impacts 5.0-3 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 6.0.1 Introduction 6.0-1 6.0.2 Alternatives Evaluated 6.0-2 6.0.3 Impacts of Each Alternative 6.0-10 6.0.4 Summary of Impacts of Each Alternative Compared to PLAN Hermosa 6.0-24 6.0.5 Environmentally Superior Alternative 6.0-31 6.0.6 References 6.0-32 7.0 REPORT PREPARERS APPENDICES Appendix A: PLAN Hermosa Public Review Draft December 2015 Appendix B: Notice of Preparation and Comment Letters B-1. Notice of Preparation B-2. Comment Letters Appendix C: Technical Background Report C-1. Introduction C-2. Aesthetics C-3. Agricultural Resources C-4. Air Quality C-5. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation C-6. Biological Resources C-7. Cultural Resources C-8. Energy C-9. Geology and Soils C-10. Hazards and Hazardous Material PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 iv • • TABLE OF CONTENTS C-11. Hydrology and Water Quality C-12. Land Use and Planning C-13. Mineral Resources C-14. Population and Housing C-15. Noise C-16. Public Services and Utilities, and Recreation C-17. Transportation C-18. References Appendix A1 Hermosa Beach Market Analysis Appendix A2 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea Level Rise Appendix B1 Natural Resources Appendix B2 Special Status Species Appendix B6 Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment Appendix B7 City of Hermosa Beach 2013-2021 Housing Element Appendix D: Air Quality Assessment Appendix E: Greenhouse Gas Assessment E-1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Assumptions E-2. City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecast, and Target Setting Report E-3. Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool and User Guide Appendix F: Noise Assessment F-1. Noise Measurements F-2. Traffic Model Appendix G: Transportation Assessment G-1. Lane Configurations G-2. Traffic Counts G-3. Peak Hour Turning Movement Traffic Volumes G-4. LOS Worksheets G-5. Traffic Methodology G-6. VMT Reduction Methods and TDM+ Tool Outputs Appendix H: Tribal Consultation LIST OF TABLES Table 1.0-1 Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures 1.0-4 Table 2.0-1 Summary of NOP Comments 2.0-2 Table 3.0-1 Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses 3.0-5 Table 3.0-2 PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations 3.0-8 Table 3.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Residential Development Projections 3.0-10 Table 3.0-4 PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Development Projections 3.0-10 Table 3.0-5 Character Areas and Future Visions 3.0-12 Table 3.0-6 Proposed Transportation Network Descriptions 3.0-16 Table 3.0-7 Implementation Actions with Direct Physical Changes 3.0-26 Table 3.0-8 Implementation Actions Used in this EIR 3.0-28 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report v TABLE OF CONTENTS Table 3.0-9 Table 4.2-1 Table 4.2-2 Table 4.3-1 Table 4.3-2 Table 4.3-3 Table 4.5-1 Table 4.6-1 Table 4.6-2 Table 4.6-3 Table 4.6-4 Table 4.6-5 Table 4.6-6 Table 4.6-7 Table 4.9-1 Table 4.9-2 Table 4.9-3 Table 4.9-4 Table 4.9-5 Table 4.11-1 Table 4.11-2 Table 4.11-3 Table 4.11-4 Table 4-11-5 Table 4.11-6 Table 4.11-7 Table 4.11-8 Table 4.11-9 Table 4.11-10 Table 4.11-11 Table 4.11-12 Table 4.12-1 Table 4.12-2 Table 4.12-3 Table 4.12-4 Table 4.12-5 Table 4.12-6 Actions Related to the Coastal Implementation Plan 3.0-39 Mass Daily Thresholds 4.2-4 Summary of Modeled Operational Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants and Precursors 4.2-16 Acreages of Vegetative Communities within the Coastal and Inland Zones 4.3-2 Special -Status Plant Species with Potential to Occur Within and Surrounding the Planning Area 4.3-6 Special -Status Wildlife Species with Potential to Occur Within and Surrounding the Planning Area 4.3-8 Effects of Richter Magnitude and Modified Mercalli Intensity 4.5-2 Potential Statewide Impacts from Climate Change 4.6-2 Hermosa Beach Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Sector, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2012 4.6-6 Hermosa Beach Baseline (2005), Forecast (2040) Emissions, and Target Level (2040) 4.6-19 California Policies Reducing Emissions Locally 4.6-19 Comparison of BAU and Adjusted BAU Emissions (2040) 4.6-20 Summary of Annual Emissions Reductions by Sector in 2040 4.6-23 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals and Achievements 4.6-29 Hermosa Beach General Plan Land Use Designations 4.9-2 Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses 4.9-3 Comparison of Land Use Densities and Floor Area Ratios 4.9-11 Coastal Act Consistency 4.9-13 Compatibility of PLAN Hermosa with the 2012-2035 RTP/SCS 4.9-21 Summary of Noise Measurement Results 4.11-4 Comparison of Noise Measurement Results with City's Policies 4.11-5 Distance to Existing Unmitigated CNEL Contour Lines 4.11-6 Damage to Buildings for Continuous or Frequent Intermittent Vibration Levels 4.11-10 Hermosa Beach Maximum Ambient Noise Levels 4.11-10 Interior and Exterior Noise Standards [Table 6.3 in PLAN Hermosa] 4.11-14 Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix [Table 6.4 in PLAN Hermosa] 4.11-14 Existing and Future Traffic Noise Levels at the Nearest Sensitive Receptors 4.11-17 Future Noise Impact Zones Adjacent to Roadways 4.11-18 Typical Vibration Source Levels for Construction Equipment 4.11-20 Estimated Changes in Traffic Noise Levels Compared to Existing Conditions4.11-22 Estimated Changes in Traffic Noise Levels Compared to Future Without Project Conditions 4.11-23 Existing Population and Housing Conditions 4.12-1 Hermosa Beach Resident Employment by Industry, 2011 4.12-2 Jobs by Industry, 2002-2011 4.12-3 Percentage of Jobs by Sector, 2007-2013 4.12-3 SCAG 2016 Draft RTP Forecasts for 2040 4.12-4 PLAN Hermosa Residential Development Capacity 4.12-7 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 vi TABLE OF CONTENTS Table 4.12-7 PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Development Capacity 4.12-7 Table 4.12-8 PLAN Hermosa Forecast for 2040 4.12-7 Table 4.13-1 Hermosa Beach City School District Enrollment, 2014-2015 4.13-13 Table 4.13-2 Parks and Community Facilities in Hermosa Beach 4.13-19 Table 4.13-3 Hermosa -Redondo District Supply and Demand, 2010 through 2040 (Acre -Feet Per year) 4.13-30 Table 4.13-4 Energy Use by Sector and Fuel Type - 2015 4.13-50 Table 4.13-5 Historic Energy Consumption 4.13-59 Table 4.13-6 Energy Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential under Plan Hermosa 4.13-60 Table 4.13-7 Fuel Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential under Plan Hermosa 4.13-61 Table 4.13-8 Plan Hermosa Energy Consumption Plus Cumulative Conditions 4.13-62 Table 4.14-1 Hermosa Beach Roadway Functional Classifications 4.14-2 Table 4.14-2 Hermosa Beach Roadways 4.14-4 Table 4.14-3 Beach Cities Transit Routes 4.14-4 Table 4.14-4 Los Angeles County Metro Transit Services 4.14-6 Table 4.14-5 Los Angeles Department of Transportation Transit Services 4.14-6 Table 4.14-6 Hermosa Beach Bicycle Facilities 4.14-7 Table 4.14-7 Level of Service Definitions 4.14-9 Table 4.14-8 Study Intersections 4.14-9 • Table 4.14-9 Study Roadway Segments 4.14-11 Table 4.14-10 Level of Service Thresholds 4.14-13 Table 4.14-11 Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service: City of Hermosa Beach 4.14-14 Table 4.14-12 Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service: Caltrans 4.14-16 Table 4.14-13 Existing (2015) Roadway Segment Level of Service 4.14-17 Table 4.14-14 Planned Hermosa Beach Bicycle Facilities 4.14-30 Table 4.14-15 Daily Citywide Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips (VT) Generated 4.14-32 Table 4.14-16 Hermosa Beach Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria 4.14-33 Table 4.14-17 Hermosa Beach Unsignalized Intersection Impact Criteria 4.14-33 Table 4.14-18 Hermosa Beach Roadway Segment Impact Criteria 4.14-33 Table 4.14-19 Caltrans Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria 4.14-34 Table 4.14-20 Congestion Management Program Impact Criteria 4.14-34 Table 4.14-21 Future (2040) Intersection Level of Service: City of Hermosa Beach 4.14-35 Table 4.14-22 Future (2040) Intersection Level of Service: Caltrans 4.14-37 Table 4.14-23 Future (2040) Roadway Segment Level of Service 4.14-38 Table 6.0-1 Potentially Significant Adverse Effects of PLAN Hermosa 6.0-2 Table 6.0-2 Comparison of Allowed/Estimated Density and Intensity 6.0-8 Table 6.0-3 No Project/Existing General Plan Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips Generated 6.0-9 Table 6.0-4 Comparison of Emissions Reduction Scenarios 2030 vs. 2040 6.0-10 Table 6.0-5 Comparison of Environmental Impacts of Alternatives to PLAN Hermosa 6.0-27 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report vii TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF FIGURES Figure 3.0-1 Regional Location Map 3.0-1 Figure 3.0-2 Hermosa Beach Corporate Boundary 3.0-3 Figure 3.0-3 Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses 3.0-4 Figure 3.0-4 PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations Diagram 3.0-9 Figure 3.0-5 Character Areas 3.0-13 Figure 3.0-6 Proposed Street Classifications 3.0-17 Figure 3.0-7 Proposed Pedestrian Network 3.0-18 Figure 3.0-8 Proposed Bicycle and Multi -Use Network 3.0-19 Figure 3.0-9 Proposed Transportation Amenities 3.0-20 Figure 3.0-10 Proposed Safe Routes to School Network... 3.0-21 Figure 3.0-11 Parks and Public Facilities 3.0-24 Figure 4.3-1 Vegetative Communities 4.3-4 Figure 4.3-2 Previously Recorded Occurrences of Special -Status Species 4.3-5 Figure 4.5-1 Regional Faults 4.5-4 Figure 4.5-2 Landslide and Liquefaction Zones 4.5-6 Figure 4.6-1 California Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Sector, 2014 4.6-4 Figure 4.6-2 California Greenhouse Gas Emissions, 2000-2014 4.6-5 Figure 4.6-3 Emissions Reductions Needed to Meet State and Local Targets 4.6-21 Figure 4.8-1 Stormwater Drainage Map 4.8-5 Figure 4.8-2 FEMA Flood Zone Map 4.8-6 Figure 4.8-3 Tsunami Inundation Zone 4.8-7 Figure 4.9-1 PLAN Hermosa Proposed Changes to Land Use Designations 4.9-10 Figure 4.11-1 Existing Noise Contours in Hermosa Beach 4.11-7 Figure 4.11-2 Future (2040) Noise Contours with Implementation of PLAN Hermosa 4.11-19 Figure 4.13-1 Parks and Public Facilities 4.13-20 Figure 4.14-1 Hermosa Beach Street Classification 4.14-3 Figure 4.14-2 Existing Transit Network 4.14-5 Figure 4.14-3 Existing Bicycle Network 4.14-8 Figure 4.14-4 Study Intersections 4.14-11 Figure 4.14-5 Study Roadway Segments 4.14-12 Figure 4.14-6 Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service 4.14-15 Figure 4.14-7 Existing (2015) Roadway Segment Level of Service 4.14-18 Figure 4.14-8 PLAN Hermosa (2040) Intersection Level of Service 4.14-36 Figure 4.14-9 PLAN Hermosa (2040) Roadway Segment Level of Service 4.14-41 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 viii • LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ABBREVIATIONS AB Assembly Bill ADA Americans with Disabilities Act ADT average daily traffic afy acre-feet per year AQMP Air Quality Management Plan BAU business as usual CAAQS California ambient air quality standards CalEEMod California Emissions Estimator Model Cal/EPA California Environmental Protection Agency Cal Fire California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Cal/OSHA California Department of Occupational Safety and Health CalRecycle California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery Caltrans California Department of Transportation Cal Water California Water Service Company CAPCOA California Air Pollution Control Officers Association CARB California Air Resources Board CBC California Building Code CCR California Code of Regulations CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CEC California Energy Commission CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CESA California Endangered Species Act CFR Code of Federal Regulations CGS California Geological Survey CH4 methane CHR California Historical Resource CIP Capital Improvement Program CLUP Coastal Land Use Plan CMP Congestion Management Program CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database CNPS California Native Plant Society CO carbon monoxide COG Council of Governments CO2 carbon dioxide CO2e carbon dioxide equivalent CPUC California Public Utilities Commission CUPA Certified Unified Program Agency CWA Clean Water Act dB decibel dBA A -weighted decibel DOC California Department of Conservation City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 ix PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS DOF California Department of Finance DTSC California Department of Toxic Substances Control DU/AC dwelling units per acre EIR environmental impact report EMS emergency medical services EO Executive Order EPA US Environmental Protection Agency ESA Endangered Species Act ESHA Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area EWMP Enhanced Watershed Management Program FAR floor area ratio FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FHWA Federal Highway Administration FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map FTA Federal Transit Administration GHG greenhouse gas GWh gigawatt -hour HBCSD Hermosa Beach City School District HBFD Hermosa Beach Fire Department HBPD Hermosa Beach Police Department HCM Highway Capacity Manual HVAC heating, ventilating, and air conditioning ICU Intersection Capacity Utilization IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change JWPCP Joint Water Pollution Control Plant kV kilovolt kWh kilowatt-hour LACDPW Los Angeles County Department of Public Works LACFCD Los Angeles County Flood Control District LACFD Los Angeles County Fire Department LACSD Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County LADOT Los Angeles Department of Transportation LARA Los Angeles Regional Agency lbs/day pounds per day LCFS Low Carbon Fuel Standard LCP Local Coastal Program LID low impact development LOS level of service LST localized significance threshold LUST leaking underground storage tank MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act MBUSD Manhattan Beach Unified School District PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report x City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS MCL maximum contaminant level MEP maximum extent practicable Metro Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority mgd million gallons per day MMTCO2e million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents MRZ mineral resource zone MS4 municipal separate storm sewer system MTCO2e metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents MW megawatt MWD Metropolitan Water District of Southern California MWh megawatt -hour NAAQS national ambient air quality standards NAHC Native American Heritage Commission NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHMLAC Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOP Notice of Preparation NO2 nitrogen dioxide NOx oxides of nitrogen NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System N2O nitrous oxide OPR Governor's Office of Planning and Research PCB polychlorinated biphenyl PCH Pacific Coast Highway PM particulate matter ppm parts per million PRC Public Resources Code PV photovoltaic RBUSD Redondo Beach Unified School District RCC Regional Call Center RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act RHNA Regional Housing Needs Allocation ROG reactive organic gas RPS Renewables Portfolio Standard RTP/SCS Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SB Senate Bill SBBMP South Bay Bicycle Master Plan SCAG Southern California Association of Governments SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District SCCIC South Central Coastal Information Center SCE Southern California Edison City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 xi PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS SCH State Clearinghouse SMARA Surface Mining and Reclamation Act SMBRP Santa Monica Bay Restoration Project SMGB State Mining and Geology Board SoCalGas Southern California Gas Company SO2 sulfur dioxide SR State Route SSMP sewer system management plan STIP State Transportation Improvement Program SWMP stormwater management plan SWPPP stormwater pollution prevention plan SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board TAC toxic air contaminant T-BACT Toxic Best Available Control Technology TBR Technical Background Report TDM transportation demand management TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load TPH total petroleum hydrocarbon USACE US Army Corps of Engineers USC United States Code USDOT US Department of Transportation USFWS US Fish and Wildlife Services USGS US Geological Survey UWMP urban water management plan V/C volume -to -capacity [ratio] VMT vehicle miles traveled VTD vehicle trips per day WBMWD West Basin Municipal Water District WDR waste discharge requirement WMG Watershed Management Group PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 xii • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0.1 PROJECT UNDER REVIEW This Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) considers the environmental impacts likely to occur with adoption and implementation of the City of Hermosa Beach's General Plan and Local Coastal Program (PLAN Hermosa). Together, these planning documents constitute the proposed project. This EIR is designed to inform decision -makers in Hermosa Beach, other responsible and trustee agencies, and the general public of the potential environmental effects of approval and implementation of the proposed project. A detailed description of the proposed project is provided in Chapter 3.0, Project Description. The City of Hermosa Beach (City) is the lead agency for environmental review of the proposed project. PLAN Hermosa defines long-term community goals, decision-making policies, and implementation actions. The plan establishes several land use designations that include residential, commercial, creative, institutional, and public facilities uses. PLAN Hermosa establishes policies to accommodate a total of 10,409 dwelling units and 2,736,800 square feet of nonresidential uses in 2040. The environmental impact analysis in this Draft EIR is defined primarily by the change between existing conditions and those associated with future land uses proposed in PLAN Hermosa. To ensure maximum public access to the coast and public recreation areas, the Coastal Act directs each local government in the Coastal Zone to prepare a Local Coastal Program (LCP) consistent with Section 30501 of the California Coastal Act, in consultation with the Coastal Commission and with public participation. The Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) 2003 General Plan Guidelines suggest integration of the general plan and local coastal program into a "coherent and internally consistent local general plan." As such, the City has decided to update both the General Plan and the LCP together as an integrated document. The General Plan and LCP update addresses land use; mobility; parks, recreation, and open space; coastal access; coastal hazards; water quality; air quality and climate change; noise; and other issues that are important to the community. In order to achieve certification from the Coastal Commission and receive local control over the issuance of Coastal Development Permits, Hermosa Beach must update the Coastal Land Use Plan and prepare and adopt a Local Implementation Program that collectively consider and address emerging coastal issues such as beach management, parking, water quality, sea level rise, and climate change. 1.0.2 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES As shown in Table 1.0-1 (Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures), a number of project impacts identified in the EIR were found to be less than significant, requiring no mitigation measures. These impacts are found in the following sections: Aesthetics and Visual Resources; Air Quality; Biological Resources; Cultural Resources; Geology and Soils; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Hazards and Hazardous Materials; Hydrology and Water Quality; Land Use and Planning; Mineral Resources; Noise; Population, Housing, and Employment; Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities; and Transportation. In addition, it was determined that numerous other identified impacts could be reduced to a less than significant level with implementation of the proposed mitigation measures described in Chapter 4.0 of this EIR. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION Under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a significant effect on the environment is defined as a substantial or potentially substantial adverse change in any of the physical conditions in the area affected by the project, including land, air, water, minerals, flora, fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance (CEQA Guidelines Section 15382). Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in significant impacts on some of these resources, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0-1 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY which are analyzed in Sections 4.1 through 4.14 of this document and summarized in Table 1.0-1 (provided at the end of this chapter). SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS Air Quality Impact 4.2-2 Short -Term Construction Emissions. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would generate air pollutant emissions from short- term construction. Impact 4.2-7 Cumulative Construction and Operational Emissions. PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of construction - related air pollutant emissions occurring within the basin, thereby affecting the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. Cultural Resources Impact 4.4-4 Substantial Change in the Significance of a Historical Resource. PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Impact 4.4-8 Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources. PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. Transportation Impact 4.14-1 Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed, except at three intersections and on one roadway segment. Impact 4.14-7 Cumulative Contribution to Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed, with the exception of three intersections and one roadway segment. 1.0.3 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROJECT Chapter 6.0, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, contains a full description and analysis of three alternatives to the proposed project that were analyzed in the Draft EIR. The alternatives are: • Alternative 1 - Retain Existing General Plan/Local Coastal Land Use Plan (No Project Alternative): This alternative assumes that PLAN Hermosa is not implemented and that future development in the city would proceed as indicated in the existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan. • Alternative 2 - Achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030: This alternative focused on achieving a community -wide goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. Carbon neutrality is the state of achieving net zero carbon emissions, generally by balancing a measured amount of PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 1.0-2 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset by the community. There are two primary differences between this alternative and the 2015 draft of PLAN Hermosa, which previously included a goal to achieve carbon neutrality no later than the year2040: 1) Expediting achievement of a carbon neutral goal by 10 years from 2040 to 2030. 2) Bypassing the use of carbon credits to offset carbon emissions that could not be eliminated. • Alternative 3 - Stronger Retention of Visual and Cultural Resources: This alternative focused on implementing additional policies or implementation actions that would facilitate greater retention of visual and cultural resources in Hermosa Beach. While the 2015 draft of PLAN Hermosa included several goals and policies to address community character, historic buildings, and scenic views, they largely do so in a manner that encourages rather than mandates the protection of these resources. This alternative, with the added or modified policies, would result in greater levels of certainty that cultural and visual resources would be retained, compared to the policies and programs proposed in PLAN Hermosa. 1.0.4 POTENTIAL AREAS OF CONTROVERSY This EIR is a comprehensive document that evaluates each environmental topic that could be applicable to PLAN Hermosa. The environmental topics covered, as potential areas of controversy, include impacts on public services, potential air quality effects, and sea level rise. The City published and circulated a Notice of Preparation (NOP) from August 7, 2015, through September 8, 2015, which was distributed to local, regional, and state agencies and posted on the City's website at http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=767. The NOP and written comments received on the NOP are included in Appendix B. 1.0.5 SUMMARY TABLE Information in Table 1.0-1 has been organized to correspond with the environmental issues discussed in Chapter 4.0. The table is arranged in four columns: • Environmental Impacts • Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation • Mitigation Measure(s) • Level of Significance After Mitigation If an impact is determined to be significant or potentially significant after implementation of proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, mitigation measures are identified, where appropriate and feasible. More than one mitigation measure may be required to reduce the impact to a less than significant level. This EIR assumes that all applicable plans, policies, and regulations would be implemented, including but not necessarily limited to proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, as well as the laws and requirements or recommendations of the City of Hermosa Beach. Applicable plans, policies, and regulations are identified and described in the Regulatory Setting subsection of each resource section and in the relevant impact analysis. Further description of both the existing environmental setting and the existing regulatory setting in 2015 can be found in the Technical Background Report (TBR) prepared for PLAN Hermosa, which is provided as Appendix C to the EIR. A description of the organization of the environmental analysis, as well as key foundational assumptions regarding the approach to the analysis, is included in Chapter 4.0, Introduction to the Analysis. For a complete description of potential impacts and recommended mitigation measures, please refer to the specific resource sections in Chapter 4.0. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0-3 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY TABLE 1.0-1 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources 4.1-1 Effects on Scenic Vistas. Future actions under PLAN Hermosa have the potential to encroach on views from prominent public viewpoints. Future actions also have the potential to degrade the visual quality of scenic vistas, through the introduction of incongruous features to the viewshed. LTS None required. N/A 4.1-2 Effects on Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway. There are no designated state scenic highways in or near Hermosa Beach. However, PLAN Hermosa directs the City to protect Pacific Coast Highway as a potentially scenic highway and would guide development and reuse projects in a manner that is consistent with the existing visual character of Pacific Coast Highway so that it may be designated as a scenic highway at some point in the future. LTS None required. N/A 4.1-3 Degradation of Existing Visual Character. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not adversely alter the existing land use pattern or visual character of the city. LTS None required. N/A 4.1-4 New Shade or Shadow That Substantially Affects Outdoor Recreation. PLAN Hermosa would allow development or reuse projects in a manner where new sources of shade or shadow may reach outdoor recreation facilities or public gathering areas. However, the voter - approved height limits effectively restrict the number of areas in which shade or shadow may have an adverse effect but do not eliminate all potential sources. LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-4 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.1-5 New Sources of Light or Glare. PLAN Hermosa would guide development and reuse projects in a manner that could create new sources of glare, skyglow, and spillover lighting. However, PLAN Hermosa also includes specific policies and implementation actions that minimize adverse effects related to new sources of light and glare. LTS None required. N/A 4.1-6 Cumulative Adverse Effects Related to Visual Resources. Of the categories of potential visual impacts addressed, only the impact of artificial lighting to the night sky (skyglow impact) is potentially cumulative in nature. All other impacts (to scenic vistas, scenic resources, visual character, shade and shadow effects, and lighting impacts of glare and spillover) are localized and confined within the city limits of Hermosa Beach. LCC None required. N/A 4.2 Air Quality 4.2-1 Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of the Applicable Air Quality Plan. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could result in air pollution emissions. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce conflicts with air quality plans. LTS None required. N/A 4.2-2 Short -Term Construction Emissions. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could generate air pollutant emissions from short-term construction. Although PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce short-term emissions, construction emissions would result in a potentially significant impact PS MM 4.2-2a Construction projects within the city shall demonstrate compliance with all applicable standards of the Southern California Air Quality Management District, including the following provisions of District Rule 403: • All unpaved demolition and construction areas shall be wetted at least twice daily during excavation and construction, and temporary dust covers shall be used to reduce dust emissions SU NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-5 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation and meet SCAQMD Rule 403. Wetting could reduce fugitive dust by as much as 50 percent. • The construction area shall be kept sufficiently dampened to control dust caused by grading and hauling, and at all times provide reasonable control of dust caused by wind. • All clearing, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be discontinued during periods of high winds (i.e., greater than 15 mph), so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust • All dirt/soil loads shall be secured by trimming, watering, or other appropriate means to prevent spillage and dust • All dirt/soil materials transported off-site shall be required to cover their loads as required by California Vehicle Code Section 23114 to prevent excessive amount of dust. • General contractors shall maintain and operate construction equipment so as to minimize exhaust emissions. • Trucks having no current hauling activity shall not idle but shall be turned off. MM 4.2-2b In accordance with Section 2485 in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, the idling of all diesel -fueled commercial vehicles (weighing over 10,000 pounds) during construction shall be limited to 5 minutes at any location. MM 4.2-2c Construction projects within the city shall comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113 limiting the volatile organic compound content of architectural coatings. NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0-6 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation MM 4.2-2d Construction projects within the city shall install odor -reducing equipment in accordance with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1138. MM 4.2-2e Project applicants shall identify all measures to reduce air pollutant emissions below SCAQMD thresholds prior to the issuance of building permits. Should attainment of SCAQMD thresholds be determined to be infeasible, construction contractors shall provide evidence of this to the City and will be encouraged to apply for SCAQMD SOON funds. 4.2-3 Long -Term Operational Emissions. Subsequent development associated with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa could generate air pollutant emissions from long- term operation. PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce long-term emissions. LTS None required. N/A 4.2-4 CO Hot Spots. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would reduce vehicle traffic to existing roadways, which could reduce the potential for CO hot spots. Traffic volumes anticipated at intersections throughout the city with implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not be large enough to cause a CO hot spot. LTS None required. N/A 4.2-5 Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant Concentrations. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in Hermosa Beach in a manner that would potentially generate additional diesel vehicle traffic and diesel stationary sources within the city. LTS None required. N/A 4.2-6 Odors. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-7 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation manner that could generate odors or expose existing receptors to odors. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and compliance with SCAQMD rules and regulations would result in a Tess than significant impact. 4.2-7 Cumulative Air Quality Impacts. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of air quality emissions occurring within the basin and affect the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. CC Implement mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e. CC/SU 4.3 Biological Resources 4.3-1 Impacts to Special -Status Species. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in the development or expansion of beach -supporting uses that could adversely affect western snowy plover and California least tern. . PS MM 4.3-1 Construction of facilities on the beach that must occur between the months of April and August (roosting season for snowy plovers) will require preconstruction surveys to determine the presence of western snowy plovers or California least terns. If these species are present, no construction may occur until the species leave the roost based on review by a qualified biologist and consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). If the project is within a Special Protection Zone, construction activities will not be allowed until western snowy plovers are no longer present. If the area is not within a Special Protection Zone, a qualified biologist will survey the area for western snowy plovers using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if plovers are present. If they are present, no work will occur until after snowy plovers leave the roost site for the season. The qualified biologist will also survey the area for California least terns using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to LTS NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0-8 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation determine if California least terns are present. If surveys are negative for western snowy plovers or California least terns, work may proceed during the roosting period and the biologist will be present to monitor the establishment of the beach landing sites to ensure that no western snowy plovers or California least terns are injured or killed, should they arrive in the area subsequent to work commencing. The project will include fencing/walls that will prevent western snowy plovers or California least terns from entering the work areas. The biologist will conduct weekly site visits to ensure that fencing/walls are intact until construction activities are finished at the sites and all equipment is removed from the beach. The results of the preconstruction survey will be submitted to the City prior to the establishment of beach landing sites. All biological monitoring efforts will be documented in monthly compliance reports to the City. 4.3-2 Impacts to Sensitive Biological Communities or Riparian Habitat. Hermosa Beach does not contain any sensitive biological communities or riparian habitat that could be impacted by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. NI None required. N/A 4.3-3 Impacts to Federally Protected Wetlands. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could indirectly impact jurisdictional waters of the United States, particularly Santa Monica Bay. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations would result in a less than significant impact LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 7017 1.0-9 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.3-4 Impacts to the Movement of Native Resident or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or Within an Established Migratory Corridor. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could impede wildlife movement in the planning area. LTS None required. N/A 4.3-5 Conflict with Any Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources, Such as a Tree Preservation Policy or Ordinance. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not result in a conflict with a local policy or ordinance protecting biological resources, including but not limited to Chapter 12.36 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code protecting certain trees. LTS None required. N/A 4.3-6 Cumulative Impacts to Biological Resources. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with existing, approved, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cites COG planning area, could result in the conversion of habitat and impact biological resources. Biological impacts from PLAN Hermosa would be limited due to the small size of potential projects and the focus on urban infill sites, and PLAN Hermosa would not contribute to any cumulative impacts. LCC None required. N/A 4.4 Cultural Resources 4.4-1 Impact on Archaeological Resources. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa could provide for future development and reuse projects on previously undisturbed land throughout the city, which could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. However, PLAN Hermosa includes implementation actions that require archaeological LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-10 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation investigations for discretionary projects on previously undisturbed lands determined sensitive for cultural resources, and require the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. 4.4-2 Disturb Human Remains. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could disturb human remains. LTS None required. N/A 4.4-3 Direct or Indirect Destruction of a Unique Paleontological Resource, Site, or Geologic Feature Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources, sites, or unique geologic features. PS MM 4.4-3 As a standard condition of approval for future development projects implemented under PLAN Hermosa that involve ground disturbance or excavation: • For any project where earthmoving or ground disturbance activities are proposed at depths that encounter older Quaternary terrace deposits, a qualified paleontologist shall be present during excavation or earthmoving activities. • If paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the construction crew shall immediately cease work in the vicinity of the find and notify the City. The project applicant(s) shall retain a qualified paleontologist to evaluate the resource and prepare a recovery plan in accordance with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology guidelines (1996). The recovery plan may include, but is not limited to, a field survey, construction monitoring, sampling and data recovery procedures, museum storage coordination for any specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the recovery plan that are determined by the lead agency to be necessary and feasible shall be LTS NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-11 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the paleontological resources were discovered. 4.4-4 Substantially Change a Historic Resource. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. PS MM 4.4-4a The City shall require project applicants of discretionary projects to conduct historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports on a project -by - project basis, when a project proposes to alter, demolish, or degrade a designated landmark or a potential historic landmark as defined by Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 17.53. MM 4.4-4b The City shall maintain the "Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach" guide, and shall update the guide so that it is informed by current resource data and its goals and policies are consistent with the Land Use + Design Element. MM 4.4-4c The City shall develop procedures and nomination applications to facilitate and streamline the designation of local historic sites and historic districts. MM 4.4-4d Historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports shall be performed by persons who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation (48 CFR 44716). SU 4.4-5 Cumulative Impact on Archaeological Resources. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of an archaeological resource. The loss of some archaeological resources may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. PLAN Hermosa also includes implementation LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-12 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation actions to minimize impacts by requiring archaeological investigations on previously undisturbed lands, and requiring the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. These implementation actions would ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. 4.4-6 Cumulative Impact on Human Remains. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could disturb human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries. The Toss of some human remains may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa includes implementation actions to minimize impacts by requiring archaeological investigations on previously undisturbed lands, and requiring the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. These implementation actions would ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. LCC None required. N/A 4.4-7 Cumulative Impact on Paleontological Resources. Ground disturbance, earthmoving, and excavation activities associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa combined with construction activities in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources. CC Implement mitigation measure MM 4.4-3. LS 4.4-8 Cumulative Impact on Historical Resources. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. The loss of some historical resources CC Implement mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-d. CC/SU NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-13 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. However, this would not ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. 4.5 Geology and Soils 4.5-1 Impacts Associated with Fault Rupture and Seismic Hazards. PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city, including buildings and structures that would potentially expose people and structures to seismic hazards. Implementation of existing laws, regulations, and policies, as outlined in the Regulatory Setting subsection, and PLAN Hermosa policies would minimize seismic hazards impacts to people and structures. LTS None required. N/A 4.5-2 Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil. PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city, which would entail ground -disturbing activities that could lead to soil loss. Compliance with existing policies regarding soil erosion and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would minimize impacts associated with erosion and loss of topsoil. LTS None required. N/A 4.5-3 Unstable and Expansive Soils. PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city. Because Hermosa Beach has a low potential for expansive soils and PLAN Hermosa contains policies to minimize development in areas with unstable or expansive soils, this impact would be less than significant. LTS None required. N/A 4.5-4 Cumulative Geologic and Soil Hazards. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in addition to other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development projects in the South Bay Cities COG planning LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0-14 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation area, may result in cumulative soil erosion impacts. However, compliance with existing regulations intended to reduce soil erosion during construction would reduce this impact. 4.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions 4.6-1 Generate Greenhouse Gas Emissions That May Have a Significant Impact on the Environment and Inhibit the Goals of Assembly Bill 32. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional greenhouse gas emissions generated. However, the plan also includes numerous policies and actions to reduce or eliminate GHG emissions from both new and existing development through incentives and voluntary actions that will meet or exceed the long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals to reduce emissions at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 (excluding offsets) through direct and local programs. However, since the City is relying on incentive -based or voluntary actions to achieve GHG reduction goals, there is a lower degree of certainty that the emissions reductions thresholds would be met compared to regulatory or mandatory actions. PS MM 4.6 -la The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b. MM 4.6 -lb The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with long-term state goals include: • 2020: 15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030:49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels MM 4.6-1c The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan, and other appropriate tools when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the LCC NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-15 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation Climate Action Plan, or other City policies and programs will include additional regulatory measures or incentives that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met. Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. 4.6-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation Adopted for the Purpose of Reducing the Emissions of Greenhouse Gases. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that is consistent with state and local plans, policies, or regulations adopted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The applicable plans, policies, and regulations include the AB 32 Scoping Plan, the City of Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan, and the City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. PLAN Hermosa includes goals, policies, and actions that would meet or exceed the goals established within each of these applicable plans. LTS None required. N/A 4.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 4.7-1 Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could result in the public's exposure to hazardous materials from increased transport, use, or accidental release of hazardous materials. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-16 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • w 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation risks of accidents associated with the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. 4.7-2 Release of Hazardous Materials Into the Environment. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could lead to accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce risks associated with the accidental release of hazardous materials. However, development of the City's Maintenance Yard or other sites in the city could release known or unknown hazardous materials. PS MM 4.7-2a For any development activities that would encroach upon or take place at the City's Maintenance Yard, the City shall require the preparation and implementation of a Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) and a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to be approved by the appropriate agencies. MM 4.7-2b Future discretionary projects involving the use of hazardous materials that may be accidentally released or encountered during construction shall be required to implement the following procedures: • Stop all work in the vicinity of any discovered contamination or release. • Identify the scope and immediacy of the problem. • Coordinate with responsible agencies (Department of Toxic Substances Control, Regional Water Quality Control Board, or US Environmental Protection Agency). • Conduct the necessary investigation and remediation activities to resolve the situation before continuing construction work as required by state and local regulations. LTS 4.7-3 Emission or Handling of Hazardous or Acutely Hazardous Materials, Substances, or Waste within One - Quarter Mile of an Existing or Proposed School. PLAN Hermosa implementation would guide future development in the city. Such development, which could emit or handle hazardous waste, could occur in the proximity of new or existing schools. Compliance with existing regulations would LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant PS = Potentially Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-17 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation reduce the risk of emissions or the handling of hazardous materials near schools. 4.7-4 Interference with an Adopted Emergency Response Plan. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would ensure conformance with countywide emergency response programs and continued cooperation with emergency response service providers. LTS None required. N/A 4.7-5 Cumulative Effect on Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, along with increased urban development in Los Angeles County, would not result in cumulative hazards impacts. LCC None required. N/A 4.8 Hydrology and Water Quality 4.8-1 Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that could alter existing stormwater runoff and associated pollutants. However, the potential for stormwater flows to affect water quality would be controlled through implementation of Municipal Code Chapter 8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), which includes the City's Low -Impact Development (LID) Ordinance (Municipal Code Section 8.44.095), and the City's Green Street Policy. Construction activities resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would also temporarily increase the amount of sediments and pollutants in stormwater runoff. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations (Municipal Code Section LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-18 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) ' Level of Significance After Mitigation 8.44.090 and NPDES Construction General Permit SWPPP requirements) would result in a Tess than significant impact. 4.8-2 Depletion of Groundwater Supplies or Substantial Interference with Groundwater Recharge. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally affect groundwater recharge because existing areas of open space would be preserved, and implementation of the City's UD Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require permeable area in new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure improvements. LTS None required. N/A 4.8-3 Alteration of the Existing Drainage Pattern of the Site or Area so as to Result in Substantial On- or Off -Site Erosion or Siltation. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally alter drainage patterns and the amount of stormwater runoff, which would minimize the potential for erosion or siltation. Continued implementation and enforcement of existing grading, erosion, and flood control regulations, in combination with the City's UD Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a Tess than significant impact LTS None required. N/A 4.8-4 Substantial Alteration of the Existing Drainage Pattern of the Site or Area so as to Result in On- or Off -Site Flooding. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally alter drainage patterns and the amount of stormwater runoff, which would minimize the potential for on- and off-site flooding. Continued implementation and LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 20I7 1.0-19 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation enforcement of existing grading, erosion, and flood control regulations, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a less than significant impact 4.8-5 Create or Contribute Runoff Water Exceeding the Capacity of Existing or Planned Stormwater Drainage Systems or Providing Substantial Additional Sources of Polluted Runoff. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would generate stormwater runoff that would be discharged to the storm drain system and would contain urban pollutants. Continued implementation and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, the Beach Cities EWMP, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a less than significant impact LTS None required. N/A 4.8-6 Substantial Degradation of Water Quality. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would not result in substantial degradation of water quality with continued implementation of Municipal Code Chapter 8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), which includes the City's Low -Impact Design (LID) Ordinance (Municipal Code Section 8.44.095), the City's Green Street Policy, existing grading and erosion regulations (Municipal Code Section 8.44.090 and NPDES Construction General Permit SWPPP requirements), participation in the Beach Cities EWMP, and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions. LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant S = Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report A 1.0-20 s City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.8-7 Placement of Housing Within a 100 -Year Flood Hazard Area. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa includes policies and implementation actions to decrease exposure to and impacts from flood hazards throughout the city. LTS None required. N/A 4.8-8 Placement Within a 100 -Year Flood Hazard Area Structures That Would Impede or Redirect Flood Flows. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would allow development or expansion of facilities to support coastal access in the 100 -year flood hazard area. However, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and adherence to development regulations specific to flood hazard areas would result in a less than significant impact LTS None required. N/A 4.8-9 Exposure of People or Structures to a Significant Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not allow habitable development in locations currently designated as 100 -year flood hazard areas, which generally precludes loss, injury, or death from flooding, including flooding from the failure of a dam or levee. However, sea level rise is more likely than not to expand the area exposed to flooding conditions in the future. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that prepare the city for sea level rise and adherence to development regulations specific to flood hazard areas would result in a less than significant impact LTS None required. N/A 4.8-10 Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would be in locations LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-21 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation that may be subject to inundation by tsunami or mudflow. However, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would result in a less than significant impact. 4.8-11 Cumulative Effects on Water Quality Standards or Waste Discharge Requirements. Anticipated regional growth in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed could increase the amount of impervious surface in the watershed, thereby potentially increasing the total volume, peak discharge rate of stormwater runoff, and associated pollutants. Additionally, construction activities resulting from regional growth could increase the amount of sediments and pollutants in stormwater runoff and could lead to water quality degradation. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because it would result in minimal changes in stormwater flows and pollutants with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations. LCC None required. N/A 4.8-12 Cumulative Effects on Groundwater Supply and Recharge. Anticipated regional growth overlying the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain, Los Angeles Basin, could increase the amount of impervious surface, thereby potentially decreasing the area available for groundwater recharge. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because new areas of impervious surface as a result of implementing PLAN Hermosa would be minimal, and new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure improvements would be required to include LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report i 1.0-22 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation more permeable surfaces than under baseline conditions. With implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's UD Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations, this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. 4.8-13 Cumulative Alteration of Stormwater Drainage Systems and Patterns Resulting in Erosion. Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed could increase the amount of impervious surface in the watershed, thereby potentially increasing the total volume and peak discharge rate of stormwater runoff and the potential for erosion and sedimentation. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because the planning area is generally built out, which would result in minimal changes in drainage patterns and therefore erosion potential with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's UD Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations. LCC None required. N/A 4.8-14 Cumulative Exposure of People or Structures to a Significant Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding. Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, in combination with PLAN Hermosa, could result in development in locations designated as 100 -year flood hazard areas, which could result in loss, injury, or death from flooding, including flooding from the failure of a dam or levee. Impacts would be site-specific and would generally not combine to create a LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-23 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation cumulative impact However, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and compliance with existing regulations, PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. 4.8-15 Cumulative Impacts Related to Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow. Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, in combination with PLAN Hermosa, could result in development in locations that may be subject to inundation by tsunami or mudflow. Impacts would be site-specific. PLAN Hermosa would not place new land uses in locations that could be subject to inundation by a tsunami, but existing uses could be at risk of tsunami. However, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and compliance with existing regulations, PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. LCC None required. N/A 4.9 Land Use and Planning 4.9-1 Physically Divide an Established Community. PLAN Hermosa includes limited land use changes and other improvements in the city that would allow for an increase in residential and nonresidential square footage. However, because the proposed changes follow established land use patterns, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in a less than significant impact LTS None required. N/A 4.9-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation. PLAN Hermosa proposes limited land use changes and other improvements in the city and numerous land use policies to guide future development in Hermosa Beach. These changes would be consistent with existing local and regional planning documents. LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-24 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.9-3 Cumulative Impact on Dividing a Community of Conflicting with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation. PLAN Hermosa, in addition to anticipated regional growth within the South Bay Cities Council of Governments planning area, would not contribute to cumulative land use impacts associated with the division of an established community or conflicts with land use plans and regulations that provide environmental protection. LCC None required. N/A 4.10 Mineral Resources 4.10-1 Loss of Availability of Mineral Resources. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource or of a locally important mineral resource recovery site. NI None required. N/A 4.11 Noise and Vibration 4.11-1 Exposure of Persons to or Generation of Noise Levels in Excess of Standards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that may expose persons to or generate noise levels in excess of the standards established in the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, or Noise Ordinance or in applicable standards of other agencies. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce this impact to less than significant. LTS None required. N/A 4.11-2 Exposure of Persons to or Generation of Excessive Groundborne Vibration or Groundborne Noise Levels. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that may expose persons to or generate excessive groundbome vibration or groundborne noise levels. PS MM 4.11-2 For development located at a distance within which acceptable vibration standards would be exceeded, the City shall require the applicant to have a structural engineer prepare a report demonstrating the following: • Vibration level limits based on building conditions, soil conditions, and planned demolition and LTS NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-25 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation construction methods to ensure vibration levels would not exceed acceptable levels where damage to structures using vibration levels in Draft EIR Table 4.11-4 as standards. • Specific measures to be taken during construction to ensure the specified vibration level limits are not exceeded. • A monitoring plan to be implemented during demolition and construction that includes post - construction and post -demolition surveys of existing structures that would be impacted. Examples of measures that may be specified for implementation during demolition or construction include but are not limited to: • Prohibition of certain types of impact equipment. • Requirement for lighter tracked or wheeled equipment. • Specifying demolition by non -impact methods, such as sawing concrete. • Phasing operations to avoid simultaneous vibration sources. • Installation of vibration measuring devices to guide decision-making for subsequent activities. 4.11-3 Substantial Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not create a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels above existing levels. LTS None required. N/A 4.11-4 Substantial Temporary or Periodic Increase in Ambient Noise Levels. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects, as well as temporary LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-26 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation events on public property, in a manner that could create a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels above levels existing without the project However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce this impact to less than significant. 4.11-5 Cumulative Effects of Noise Sources. PLAN Hermosa implementation, in addition to anticipated growth in the region, would result in additional construction activity, as well as stationary and mobile noise sources throughout the city and in adjacent jurisdictions, thereby increasing overall ambient noise levels. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce the effects of increased noise levels on nearby sensitive receptors. LCC None required. N/A 4.12 Population, Housing, and Employment 4.12-1 Induce Substantial Population Growth. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not substantially increase population in Hermosa Beach. Since land use designations and allowable residential densities are only altered to bring consistency between the zoning and land use maps, the total allowable development potential in the city would not be changed with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Providing for the orderly growth of Hermosa Beach is a basic purpose of PLAN Hermosa, which would direct expected growth. LTS None required. N/A 4.12-2 Displace People or Housing. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would allow the construction of new residential, commercial, and industrial LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-27 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation uses, as well as infrastructure, public service, and recreation improvements. However, there would be no substantial changes to the residential designated land use areas in the city that would result in a Targe displacement of existing residences or housing. 4.12-3 Cumulative Inducement of Population Growth. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies, in addition to anticipated land use changes throughout the South Bay Cities COG planning area, would increase population, both directly and indirectly (through increased employment). LCC None required. N/A 4.12-4 Cumulative Effects Displacing People or Housing. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in addition to anticipated changes throughout the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could directly or indirectly displace people or housing. LCC None required. N/A 4.13 Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities 4.13.2-1 Increased Demand on Fire Protection Services. Subsequent development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa could increase demand for fire protection services. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require that the City regularly update fire protection standards and new development to provide adequate fire flow and emergency access. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.2-2 Cumulative Demand on Fire Protection Services. PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could increase the demand for fire protection and emergency medical services and could require additional staffing, equipment, and related facilities under cumulative conditions. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-28 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation expanded fire protection and emergency medical services, the construction and operation of which could result in significant environmental impacts, would be less than cumulatively considerable. 4.13.3-1 Increased Demand for Law Enforcement Services. Subsequent development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would result in an increase in population in the planning area, but it would not result in the need for additional and/or expanded police protection facilities. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the City to continue to provide adequate staffing, facilities, equipment, and technology to meet existing and projected service demands and response times. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.3-2 Cumulative Demand for Law Enforcement Services. PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG service area, could increase the demand for law enforcement services and could require additional staffing, equipment, and facilities under cumulative conditions. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded law enforcement services facilities, the construction and operation of which could result in significant environmental impacts, would be less than cumulatively considerable. LCC None required. N/A 4.13.4-1 Increased Demand for Additional School Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in an increase in student enrollment in public schools. New or expanded school high school facilities would not be LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-29 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation required, but the addition of K-8 students in the Hermosa Beach City School District would contribute to existing and future overcrowding in the district's two schools. The HBCSD has identified options for providing additional capacity to address existing and future enrollment, which would be required regardless of whether PLAN Hermosa is adopted and implemented. Payment of applicable fees in accordance with SB 50 would fully mitigate the impacts associated with the development of additional school facilities. 4.13.4-2 Cumulative Increased Demand for Schools. Population growth associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Hermosa Beach City Unified School District, Manhattan Beach Unified School District, and Redondo Beach Unified School District, could result in a cumulative increase in student enrollment, which could result in the need for new or expanded public school facilities. LCC None required. N/A 4.13.5-1 Increased Demand for Additional Park Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase demand for parks and recreation services. Existing park acreage would continue to meet the Quimby Act standard of 3 acres per 1,000 residents. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the provision of new parks and recreation facilities and ongoing parkland maintenance to prevent deterioration of existing facilities. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.5-2 Cumulative Increased Demand for Parks and Recreation Facilities. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, along with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-30 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could increase the use of existing parks and require additional park and recreation facilities in the cumulative setting, the provision of which could have an adverse physical effect on the environment However, PLAN Hermosa would continue to provide adequate parks and recreation facilities within the city to accommodate existing and future demand and would not result in the need to construct new or expanded facilities. 4.13.6-1 Increased Demand for Additional Library Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for library services. However, the City would not need to expand or construct library facilities to meet recommended standards. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.6-2 Cumulative Increased Demand for Library Facilities. Population growth associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the cumulative setting, would not result in a cumulative increase in demand for library services. LCC None required. N/A 4.13.7-1 Demand for Wastewater Treatment. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the amount of wastewater conveyed to and treated by the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant However, the volume of flows would not cause the plant's permitted capacity to be exceeded, and the influent flows would continue to be domestic sewage, which would not change the quality of the influent compared to existing conditions. LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-31 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation 4.13.7-2 Demand for New or Expanded Water or Wastewater Treatment Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for potable water and would generate wastewater. However, the demand would not result in the need for the construction or expansion of water or wastewater treatment facilities that would result in significant environmental effects because the demand is within existing planned capacity projections of the utility providers. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.7-3 Demand for Stormwater Drainage Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in redevelopment in the planning area but would generally not increase the amount of impervious surface. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would direct construction of development projects to include on-site drainage improvements, which would reduce the impact on existing stormwater drainage facilities. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.7-4 Demand for Water Supplies. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for potable water. However, the demand is within the 2010 Urban Water Management Plan supply -demand projections adopted by the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District, and no new entitlements would be needed. LTS None required. . N/A 4.13.7-5 Capacity to Serve Wastewater Treatment. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in the need for additional wastewater treatment from increased flows. However, the anticipated increase in wastewater generated LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-32 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation would not exceed the capacity of the JWPCP or result in the need for the construction or expansion of wastewater treatment facilities. 4.13.7-6 Cumulative Water Supply Impacts. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District service area, would increase the demand for water supply. However, PLAN Hermosa water demand is within the district's population -based supply/demand assumptions, and additional supplies would not be required. LCC None required. . N/A 4.13.7-7 Cumulative Wastewater Impacts. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the service area of the JWPCP, would increase the demand for wastewater treatment. There is sufficient capacity at the JWPCP for projected future demand, which includes flows from Hermosa Beach, and new or expanded facilities would not be required. LCC None required. N/A 4.13.8-1 Demand for Solid Waste Disposal. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional solid waste disposal needs. Adequate capacity exists in the landfills receiving waste generated in Hermosa Beach to accommodate these additional needs. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.8-2 Compliance with Solid Waste Disposal Regulations. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional solid waste disposal needs. The City would LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-33 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation continue current programs and policies that result in a per capita disposal rate is better than target amounts. 4.13.8-3 Cumulative Solid Waste Impacts. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Los Angeles Integrated Solid Waste Management Authority planning area, would increase the demand for solid waste facilities. LCC None required. N/A 4.13.9-1 Increased Demand for Additional Energy Resources. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city that would not result in the use of fuel or energy in a wasteful manner. LTS None required. N/A 4.13.9-2 Cumulative Energy Consumption Impacts. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in Los Angeles County, would increase the demand for energy resources. LCC None required. N/A 4.14 Transportation 4.14-1 Exceedance of LOS Performance Standard. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Three intersections and one segment would experience a significant impact. PS None available. SU 4.14-2 Conflict with Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would maintain the level of service standard LTS None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-34 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation for the intersection located at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard and comply with the CMP. 4.14-3 Air Traffic Patterns. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not modify the planning or operations of Los Angeles International Airport or introduce land use patterns that may cause substantial safety risks to or from air operations. LTS None required. N/A 4.14-4 Roadway Design Hazards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase hazards due to design or incompatible uses. LTS None required. N/A 4.14-5 Result in Inadequate Emergency Access. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city that could result in inadequate emergency access. However, PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce emergency access program -level impacts to a less than significant level. LTS None required. N/A 4.14-6 Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that supports the maintenance and expansion of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities consistent with adopted local and regional plans. LTS None required. N/A 4.14-7 Cumulative Contribution to Exceedance of Level of Service Performance Standard. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Nonetheless, three CC None feasible. SU NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 1.0-35 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Impacts Level of Significance Prior to Mitigation Mitigation Measure(s) Level of Significance After Mitigation intersections and one segment would experience a cumulatively considerable impact. 4.14-8 Contribution to Cumulatively Considerable Conflict with Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would maintain the level of service standard for the intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard and would comply with the CMP. LCC None required. N/A 4.14-9 Cumulative Effect on Air Traffic Patterns. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated cumulative growth in the region would not modify the planning or operations of Los Angeles International Airport or introduce land use patterns that may cause substantial safety risks to or from air operations. LCC None required. N/A 4.14-10 Cumulative Roadway Design Hazards. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated regional growth would not increase hazards due to design or incompatible uses. LCC None required. N/A 4.16-11 Cumulative Contribution to Inadequate Emergency Access. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies in addition to anticipated regional growth would not result in inadequate emergency access. LCC None required. N/A 4.14-12 Cumulative Contribution to Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities. PLAN Hermosa supports the maintenance and expansion of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities consistent with adopted local and regional plans. LCC None required. N/A NI = No Impact LTS = Less Than Significant LCC = Less Than Cumulatively Considerable PS = Potentially Significant CC = Cumulatively Considerable S = Significant N/A = Not Applicable SU = Significant and Unavoidable PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 1.0-36 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • 2.0 INTRODUCTION • 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.0.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND This Program Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) examines the potential effects of PLAN Hermosa (proposed project). The term "proposed project," as used in this EIR, refers to PLAN Hermosa (SCH No. 2015081009), which includes the implementation of a citywide General Plan and Local Coastal Program. The proposed project is described in detail in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, and included as Appendix A. The project background and the legal basis for preparing a program EIR are described below. 2.0.2 LEGISLATIVE BACKGROUND This EIR considers the environmental impacts that could result from implementation of the City of Hermosa Beach's General Plan and Local Coastal Program (PLAN Hermosa; proposed project). GENERAL PLAN State law (California Government Code Section 65300) requires that each California city and county adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan to guide the physical development of the county or city. The following elements are required to be addressed as part of the general plan: • Land Use • Circulation • Housing • Conservation • Open Space • Noise • Safety The City's current General Plan was last comprehensively updated in 1979, and the accompanying Coastal Land Use Plan was certified in 1980. The City's Housing Element, which is also part of the General Plan, was last updated in 2013 and has been certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development through 2021; therefore, it is not part of the proposed project. LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM To ensure maximum public access to the coast and public recreation areas, the Coastal Act directs each local government in the Coastal Zone to prepare a Local Coastal Program (LCP) consistent with Section 30501 of the California Coastal Act, in consultation with the Coastal Commission and with public participation. The Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) 2003 General Plan Guidelines suggest integration of the general plan and the local coastal program into a "coherent and internally consistent local general plan." As such, the City of Hermosa Beach has decided to update both the General Plan and the LCP together as an integrated document. The General Plan and LCP update addresses land use; mobility; parks, recreation, and open space; coastal access; coastal hazards; water quality; air quality and climate change; noise; and other issues that are important to the community. The LCP addresses portions of Hermosa Beach located in the Coastal Zone and consists of two parts: • A Coastal Land Use Plan, which is presented as a component of the General Plan; and • A Local Implementation Plan, which is presented as a component of the Municipal Code. The Coastal Zone boundary is defined by the California Coastal Act as "extending seaward to the state's outer limit of jurisdiction, including all offshore islands, and extending inland generally 1,000 yards from the mean high tide line of the sea" (Public Resources Code Section 30103). The Coastal Zone in the city spans the entire length of the city from north to south and extends from the mean high tide line inland to roughly Ardmore Avenue with two exclusions—the area from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive between Longfellow Avenue and 31st Place, and the area east City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2.0-1 2.0 INTRODUCTION of Park Avenue or Loma Drive between 25th Street and 16th Street. Figure 3.0-2 (Hermosa Beach Corporate Boundary) shows the extent of the Coastal Zone in the city. In order to achieve certification from the Coastal Commission and attain local control over the issuance of Coastal Development Permits, Hermosa Beach must update the Coastal Land Use Plan and prepare and adopt a Local Implementation Plan that collectively consider and address emerging coastal issues such as beach management, parking, water quality, sea level rise, and climate change. 2.0.3 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING/DEFINITION OF THE BASELINE AND EIR ASSUMPTIONS According to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15125, an EIR must include a description of the existing physical environmental conditions in the project vicinity to provide the "baseline condition" against which project -related impacts are compared. Normally the baseline condition is the physical condition that exists when the Notice of Preparation (NOP) is published. The NOP for the PLAN Hermosa EIR was published on August 7, 2015, and a public scoping meeting was held on August 18, 2015 (see Appendix B-1). Table 2.0-1 (Summary of NOP Comments) summarizes the NOP comment letters received (see Appendix B-2 for full comment letters). TABLE 2.0-1 SUMMARY OF NOP COMMENTS Commenter Date of Comment Summary of Comments Scott Morgan, Acting Director Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) August 6, 2015 The letter was sent to responsible agencies and requested their comment on the NOP. Jim Lissner, Hermosa Beach Resident September 8, 2015 The commenter includes statistics for various crimes and states that they are increasing in Hermosa Beach and that crime rates are higher than in Manhattan Beach. Additionally, the commenter states that neighborhoods with more alcohol outlets tend to experience more violence and injury. Further, the commenter is concerned that Hermosa Beach's move toward requiring fewer on-site parking spaces for downtown restaurants will permit greater outlet density and bring increased crime. Adriana Raza, Customer Service Specialist, Facilities Planning Department Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County September 8, 2015 Will -serve letter stating that the County will be able to accommodate the increase in population associated with the General Plan update. The commenter discusses the wastewater conveyance system (i.e., how much waste the conveyance system can accommodate). The commenter states that no known deficiencies exist in the districts' facilities that serve the city. The commenter further states that the district will provide wastewater service up to the levels that are legally permitted; however, the letter does not serve as a guarantee of wastewater service. Kevin Johnson, Acting Chief, Forestry Division Prevention Services Bureau Los Angeles County Fire Department August 25, 2015 The commenter states that statutory responsibilities of the Los Angeles County Fire Department include erosion control, watershed management, rare and endangered species, vegetation, fuel modification for Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or Fire Zone 4, archaeological and cultural resources, and the County Oak Tree Ordinance. The commenter states that potential impacts to these issue areas should be addressed. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2.0-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 2.0 INTRODUCTION Commenter Date of Comment Summary of Comments Ping Chang, Program Manager II, Land Use and Environmental Planning Southern California Association of Governments September 8, 2015 The commenting agency states that they review environmental documents for consistency with the adopted Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) (2012). The commenter also states that the goals in the RTP/SCS may be pertinent to the project and should be reviewed. Strategies to achieve those goals are included in the SCS chapter. Dianna Watson, IGR/CEQA Branch Chief California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), District 7 September 3, 2015 The commenter states that modifications made to Pacific Coast Highway will require a permit from Caltrans. The commenter also states that the traffic impact analysis (TIA) associated with the project should evaluate existing and long-term impacts of future development plans on the roadway system as well as active transportation facilities in the planning area and adjacent jurisdictions. The TIA should also include an evaluation of potential traffic impacts to the regional transportation system including Interstate 405, as it provides access to the city via the Artesia interchange. Ken Chiang, Utilities Engineer, Safety and Enforcement Division California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) August 10, 2015 The project site includes active railroad tracks over which the CPUC has jurisdiction. The commenter recommends mitigation measures to reduce potential impacts associated with new development. Alan Benson, Resident August 18, 2015 The commenter requests that the City address an increase in alcohol outlet density and the correlation with the increase in the rate of violent crime and what changes to the General Plan could address these in the future. The commenter includes a report that examines the relationship between alcohol outlet density by community and alcohol-related harms. Ian MacMillan, Planning and Rules Manager - South Coast Air Quality Management District August 13, 2015 The commenter suggests that any potential adverse air quality impacts that could occur from all phases of the project and all air pollutant sources related to the project be analyzed. Jeff Duclos, Resident August 18, 2015 The commenter discusses concerns over lack of discussion of carbon neutrality and potential changes to land use/livable streets in the EIR. Also would like to look to the future, for a 20 -year model instead of focusing on existing standards—as future residents will have different ideals from current residents. The commenter identified concerns over the planned residential development new units projected between 2015 and 2040. The commenter thinks that such projected growth is impossible to accommodate, "the housing stock does not exist." Dency Nelson, Resident August 18, 2015 The commenter wants the City to review reports about sea level rise and its effects on Hermosa Beach. George Schmeltzer, Resident August 18, 2015 The commenter asks if this EIR will prevent the need to do future EIRs in the future. The commenter expresses concern about other large development projects being covered under the EIR. The commenter asks what the term "alternative" means, and why the project is a project under CEQA. The commenter then asks if the EIR would allow a 300 net housing unit increase, and where that would take place. Further, the commenter discusses the importance of livable streets in Hermosa Beach and regulating building height. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 2.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2.0 INTRODUCTION Commenter Date of Comment Summary of Comments Justin Massey, Resident August 18, 2015 The commenter is glad that a programmatic EIR was chosen so that the City can tier off it in the future. The commenter thinks that the alternatives are very important to discuss and analyze. The commenter then says he is worried about the viewshed from various parts of the city, air and water pollution, how the plan will contribute to climate change, and mobility and transportation. The commenter says he doesn't just want to see raw numbers on walkability/mobility but is concerned with how it will affect the average community member walking down the street. The commenter says that the City must think about the quality of life of residents as well as the environment. Finally, the commenter wants to extend the period of comment beyond 45 days. Source: Data compiled by Michael Ba er International, 2015 For analytical purposes, i pacts associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa are derived from the existing environ ental setting in 2015. This baseline year (2015) is used throughout this EIR to determine impacts. Evaluations in this EIR are to occur over the next boundaries. To determi commercial, and populati capacity of the PLAN Her the region, specific policy includes forecasts of the n in population anticipated This EIR presents a consery 2040. As a practical matte any city or county is typi market forces, as well as often results in the constru This EIR also evaluates t Hermosa policy provisions. ased on reasonable assumptions of development activity anticipated 5 years in the planning area, which consists of the existing city e reasonable assumptions for the amount of new residential, n growth, the City assumed a range of factors, including the physical osa Land Use Map, the projected growth assumed in the city and direction in PLAN Hermosa, and socioeconomic trends. This analysis mber of new residences, amount of new employment, and increase o occur under PLAN Hermosa. tive scenario based on the potential development from 2015 through , as illustrated under the current General Plan, actual development in ally less than the theoretical limit of development. This is a result of uilding and zoning standards when applied to specific sites, which tion of less than the maximum allowable development. e physical environmental impacts of the implementation of PLAN 2.0.4 PURPOSE OF THE P • OGRAM ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT This EIR evaluates the impacts of PLAN Hermosa. It is a program EIR, as described in CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines (Cal fornia Code of Regulations, Title 14, Sections 15000 et seq. [14 CCR 15000 et seq.). According to State CEQA uidelines Section 15168(a), a state or local agency should prepare a program EIR, rather than a project EIR, when the lead agency proposes the following: • A series of related • ctions that are linked geographically; • Logical parts of a the conduct of a c hain of contemplated events, rules, regulations, or plans that govern ntinuing program; or • Individual activitie carried out under the same authorizing statutory or regulatory authority and havi g generally similar environmental effects that can be mitigated in similar ways. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental I pact Report August 2017 2.0-4 • • 2.0 INTRODUCTION A program EIR "may be prepared on a series of actions that can be characterized as one large project and are related...in connection with the issuance of rules, regulations, plans, or other general criteria to govern the conduct of a continuing program" (CEQA Guidelines Section 15168[a] [3]). This program EIR considers a series of actions related to implementation of PLAN Hermosa. As a program EIR, this document focuses on the overall effect of PLAN Hermosa. The analyses in this EIR do not examine the effects of site-specific projects that may occur under this plan in the future. The nature of general plans is such that many proposed policies are intended to be general, with details to be worked out during implementation. This EIR does, however, quantify impacts related to transportation, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, noise, and other topics, making reasonable assumptions as to the amount, type, and character of land use change anticipated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. TIERING AND STREAMLINING The City will make use of existing streamlining provided by CEQA, emerging streamlining techniques, such as those related to implementation of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Sustainable Communities Strategy (Public Resources Code [PRC] Section 21155), and other streamlining techniques that may become available in the future. The City has invested substantial resources in PLAN Hermosa and its EIR, and wishes to promote fiscally prudent use of this EIR, once it is certified, to accommodate development consistent with PLAN Hermosa. Tiering refers to a multilevel approach to preparing environmental documents set forth in PRC Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15152. This program EIR's analysis is considered the first tier of environmental review upon which future, project -specific CEQA documents can build, as necessary. Environmental analysis for future projects consistent with PLAN Hermosa can be streamlined to allow subsequent documents to focus on new or site-specific impacts (CEQA Guidelines Sections 15168[d] and 15183). These provisions of CEQA allow a lead agency to narrow the focus of project -level analysis to effects upon the environment that are peculiar to the parcel or project. The Public Resources Code also limits the effects that can be considered peculiar in project -level analysis under the program EIR. Section 15152 of the CEQA Guidelines provides that where a first-tier EIR has "adequately addressed" the subject of cumulative impacts, such impacts need not be revisited in second - and/or third -tier documents. According to Section 15152(f)(3), significant effects identified in a first-tier EIR are adequately addressed, for purposes of later approvals, if the lead agency determines that such effects have been either: • Mitigated or avoided as a result of the prior [EIR] and findings adopted in connection with that prior [EIR]; or • Examined at a sufficient level of detail in the prior [EIR] to enable those effects to be mitigated or avoided by site-specific revisions, the imposition of conditions, or by other means in connection with the approval of the later project. The Public Resources Code provides streamlining coverage to the City of Hermosa Beach and other public agencies that have authority to implement PLAN Hermosa. Public agencies can use uniformly applied policies or standards to mitigate effects of future projects, avoiding the need to analyze these effects, unless new information arises that changes the impact analysis (PRC Section 21083.3[d]). For this reason, this EIR includes references to PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, where appropriate, to address environmental impacts. Future CEQA City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2.0-5 2.0 INTRODUCTION documents can referenc demonstrate less than si corridor plans, downtown smaller geographic area The City acknowledges a approach to environmen Section 15168(b): Use of a program EIR c 1) Provide an occasi than would be pra 2) Ensure considerati analysis; 3) Avoid duplicative 4) Allow the Lead A mitigation measur with basic problem 5) Allow reduction in 2.0.5 PUBUC REVIEW OF Comm The public review and c 2017. Written public corn January 5, 2017. Written c City of Hermosa B Following the public rev] written comments receiv consider the Final EIR prior 2.0.6 SCOPE OF THIS D As lead agency, the City areas: the same PLAN Hermosa policies and actions, where appropriate, to nificant impacts. The City may consider specific plans, area plans, ore area plans, or other documents to implement PLAN Hermosa in a f the city. d intends to make best use of the advantages to the programmatic Ital analysis and reporting in this EIR. As noted in CEQA Guidelines n provide the following advantages. The program EIR can: n for a more exhaustive consideration of effects and alternatives tical in an EIR on an individual action; n of cumulative impacts that might be slighted in a case-by-case consideration of basic policy considerations; ency to consider broad policy alternatives and program wide s at an early time when the agency has greater flexibility to deal or cumulative impacts; and aperwork. RAFT EIR AND LEAD AGENCY CONTACT City of Hermosa Beach nity Development Department (Planning Division) 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 92054 mment period is 70 days from October 26, 2016 through January 5, ents on the Draft EIR must be received no later than 6:00 PM on mments or questions regarding the Draft EIR should be addressed to: Ken Robertson ach Community Development Department (Planning Division) 1315 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 92054 generalplan@hermosabch.ora period, a Final EIR will be prepared. The Final EIR will respond to d during the public review period. The City Council will review and o their decision to approve, revise, or reject the proposed project. FT EIR etermined that this Draft EIR will address the following technical issue • Aesthetics and Vis al Resources • Air Quality • Biological Resourc=s • Cultural Resources • Geology and Soils • Greenhouse Gas E fissions • Hazards and Hazar ous Materials • Hydrology and Water Quality • Land Use and Planning • Mineral Resources • Noise and Vibration • Population and Housing • Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities • Transportation PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental I pact Report August 2017 2.0-6 • 2.0 INTRODUCTION The specific topics evaluated are described in each of the resource sections presented in Chapter 4.0. 2.0.7 HOW TO USE THIS REPORT This report includes the following principal parts: Executive Summary, Project Description, Environmental Analysis (Impacts and Mitigation Measures), Other CEQA-Required Considerations, Alternatives, Abbreviations, Report Preparers, and Appendices. • Executive Summary (Chapter 1.0) presents an overview of the results and conclusions of the environmental evaluation. This chapter identifies impacts of the proposed project and available mitigation measures. • Project Description (Chapter 3.0) describes the location of the project, existing conditions in the planning area, and the nature and location of specific elements of the proposed project. • Environmental Analysis (Chapter 4.0) includes a topic -by -topic analysis of impacts that would or may result from implementation of the proposed project or alternatives. The analysis is organized into 14 resource sections, each of which is organized into two major subsections: Environmental Setting and Regulatory Setting (a summary of existing conditions), and Impacts and Mitigation Measures. The Impacts and Mitigation Measures subsection also describes cumulative impacts and mitigation measures. Appendix C, the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report, provides additional detail regarding the environmental and regulatory setting for each resource section. • Other CEQA-Required Considerations (Chapter 5.0) discusses issues required by CEQA: unavoidable adverse impacts, irreversible environmental changes, growth inducement, and a summary of cumulative impacts. • Alternatives to the Proposed Project (Chapter 6.0) includes a description of the project alternatives. CEQA requires an EIR to provide adequate information for decision -makers to make a reasonable choice between alternatives based on the environmental aspects of the proposed project and alternatives. The impacts of the alternatives are qualitatively compared to those of the proposed project. This chapter also identifies the environmentally superior alternative. • Report Preparers (Chapter 7.0) includes a list of the preparers of the EIR. • The Appendices contain a number of reference items providing support and documentation of the analyses performed for this report. They are included on a CD inserted in the back cover of the EIR. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2.0-7 2.0 INTRODUCTION This page intentionally left blank. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 2.0-8 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0.1 REGIONAL SETTING Hermosa Beach is located in southwest Los Angeles County and encompasses 1.4 square miles, with 1.8 miles of coastline along Santa Monica Bay. Manhattan Beach borders Hermosa Beach to the north and northeast, and Redondo Beach is located to the south and east (see Figure 3.0-1, Regional Location Map). Pacific Coast Highway runs north/south through the entirety of Hermosa Beach. Roughly half of the city is located within the Coastal Zone. malibu FIGURE 3.0-1 REGIONAL LOCATION MAP manhattan beach city of hermosa beach redondo r beach Tong.,.., beach 3.0.2 HERMOSA BEACH The proposed project area, shown in Figure 3.0-2 (Hermosa Beach Corporate Boundary), includes the entire corporate limits of the City of Hermosa Beach and the City's Coastal Zone. Existing land uses in the city include residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and open space as shown in Figure 3.0-3 (Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses) and Table 3.0-1 (Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses). Residential uses comprise over 67 percent of the city's land area, with approximately 10,000 housing units encompassing 455 acres of the city. Residential uses include single-family residential, multi -family, mobile homes, and mixed-use property (with both residential and commercial). Single-family land uses are found throughout the city, with neighborhoods in the northeast, east, and southeast that are predominantly single-family uses. Multi -family housing units are predominantly found in the southwest area of Hermosa Beach, with additional multi -family housing found in the northwest and southeast portions of the city. The northwest portion of the city and The Strand have a mix of single-family and multi -family housing options. There are two mobile home areas—one located north of Pier Avenue, between Loma Drive and Valley Drive, which is a resident -owned park, and the other along 10th Street between Ardmore Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway, which also serves recreational vehicles. Existing commercial uses comprise approximately 7 percent of the city's total land area including retail, restaurant, office, and other uses that provide goods or services. These uses can be found primarily along the city's corridors and in Downtown, with pockets of small-scale commercial City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-1 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION found in residential neighborhoods. Commercial uses along Hermosa Avenue or Manhattan Avenue primarily consist of restaurants, stores, and services to serve the neighborhood and nearby beachgoers. Light industrial or manufacturing uses in Hermosa Beach account for approximately 4 percent of the city's total land area and are generally located in a 4 -acre industrial area near Cypress Avenue, including light manufacturing, warehouses, construction supply, surfboard manufacturing, auto shops, and air conditioning and heating manufacturing uses. I FIGURE 3.0-2 HERMOSA BEACH CORPORATE BOUNDARY ....-31519 lith St ?4th st 3. 14th St V= - x a - »r6th St Iro n 8th St so a Per Ave 2nd St a /- or,sot orhgrell A 1' rolo if,::_. i --19thst • --18th St _.- 15th St -±._._1._.:_._,. , fl 101h St f -8thSt L --- 6th St • `5th St hermosa beach boundaries - �1 city limits L J coastal zone rJ 0 400' 800'. 0" 1" 2" PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-3 HERMOSA BEACH EXISTING LAND USES 111i'1 r i rJC "I. ri \73 - --•-• Coastal Zone Boundary Land Use Designations • Single Family Residential • Multi -Family Residential L ! Mobile Homes and Trailer Parks General Office Q Commercial and Services Facilities Education IIIII Industrial EZi Transportation. Communications, and Utilities Mixed Commercial and Industrial Mixed Residential and Commercial • Open Space and Recreation En Vacant • `A�G'Ct Lrf uOd.I.JAugu.L 1014 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Institutional land uses account for 147 acres or 22 percent of the total land area. Institutional land uses include schools, government-owned facilities, parks, the beach and open space, and essential operations areas such as parking, utility buildings, the City maintenance yard and other facilities, or utility easements. TABLE 3.0-1 HERMOSA BEACH EXISTING LAND USES Use Number of Parcels Total ' Acres : Percentage of Land Area Residential Uses Single -Family 3,261 263.0 39.1% Multi -Family 1,898 186.3 27.6% Mobile Homes 3 4.6 0.7% Mixed Residential and Commercial 17 1.5 0.2% Residential Subtotal 5,179 455.4 67.6% Commercial and Light Industrial Uses Commercial and Services 274 57.6 8.5% General Office 40 7.9 1.1% Industrial 26 4.1 0.6% Mixed Commercial and Industrial 1 0.2 <0.1% Commercial and Industrial Subtotal 341 69.8 10.2% Institutional and Other Uses City Facilities 46 19.6 2.9% Education 9 16.7 2.4% Open Space and Recreation 52 104.5 15.5% Transportation, Communication, and Utilities 8 4.2 0.6% Vacant 33 2.6 0.4% Institutional and Other Uses Subtotal 148 147.6 21.8% Total 5,668 672.8 100% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 i 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0.3, PROJECT OBJECTIVES California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15124(b) requires that a project's environmental impact report (EIR) include a written statement of objectives that should include the underlying purpose of the project. The priorities underscored in PLAN Hermosa identified through the community outreach process form the basis of the project objectives. 1) Preserve the city's small beach town character through policies and design standards that maintain buildings at an appropriate scale and size with existing ones and recognize the unique features of the city's eclectic residential neighborhoods. 2) Enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy through policies that stimulate sustainable businesses and jobs, enhance safe and beautiful commercial corridors, articulate clear and consistent standards for new businesses, and provide convenient services to residents, employees, and visitors. 3) Promote healthy and active lifestyles through land use and transportation improvements that enhance pedestrian, transit, and bike safety and access to a variety of destinations in the city. 4) Provide a safe and clean natural environment—including clean air and water—and stewardship of our ocean resources, open space, and other natural resources. 5) Achieve a low carbon future through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by reducing fuel consumption, diverting solid waste from landfills, conserving water and improving the efficiency of energy use and utilizing renewable energy sources. 3.0.4 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS The project consists of two components: the General Plan and the Local Coastal Program, collectively referred to as PLAN Hermosa. PLAN Hermosa's stated purpose is to guide development in the city for the next 25 years by balancing quality of life, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. PLAN Hermosa defines long-term community goals, decision- making policies, and implementation actions. PLAN Hermosa establishes an overall development capacity for the city and represents the City's policy for determining appropriate physical development and character. Any decision by the City affecting land use and development must be consistent with PLAN Hermosa. An action, program, or project would be considered consistent if, considering all of its aspects, it would further the goals and policies set forth in PLAN Hermosa and not obstruct their attainment. PLAN Hermosa includes the subject matter required for the seven state -required elements, as well as subjects required for the Coastal Land Use Plan. • Community Governance • Parks + Open Space • Land Use + Design • Public Safety • Mobility • Infrastructure • Sustainability + Conservation PLAN Hermosa also includes a Vision Statement, an Introduction chapter, and an Implementation Plan that presents actions needed to achieve the vision. The City's Housing Element, which is also part of the General Plan, was last updated in 2013 and has been certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development through 2021; therefore, it is not part of the proposed project. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-5 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Community Governance Element The Community Governance Element serves as the introduction to PLAN Hermosa. This element details the leadership, decision-making process, development requirements, and regional coordination necessary to achieve the proposed plan's objectives through goals, policies, and actions. This element describes the system of governance and provides goals and policies for Hermosa Beach. In addition, the element identifies ways to continue community involvement and investment, while ensuring decision-making and leadership are conducted in an ethical, transparent, and innovative manner that reflects community values. Land Use + Design Element The Land Use + Design Element guides future development in Hermosa Beach; identifies the character -defining features of each neighborhood, corridor, or district; and provides policy guidance that supports the intended character of each area. The element establishes land use designations that provide direction to each individual property owner regarding allowed uses and densities. More specifically, the Land Use + Design Element: • Defines a realistic long-term vision for the built form of Hermosa Beach through 2040. • Expresses the desires of Hermosa Beach residents regarding the physical, social, economic, cultural, and environmental character of the community. • Serves as a comprehensive guide for making decisions about land use, urban design, economic development, and other related topics, such as public facilities and services and parks and open space. • Serves as the City's framework for land use and development decisions and provides the legal foundation for zoning, subdivisions, development plans, and facility plans. The PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations Diagram (Figure 3.0-4) establishes the general pattern of uses in the city and identifies minimum and maximum permitted land use densities and intensities. These parameters can be used to identify the anticipated level of development in the city between 2015 and 2040. As the density and intensity standards for each land use designation are applied to future development projects and land use decisions, properties will gradually transition from one use to another, and land uses and intensities will gradually shift to align with the intent of PLAN Hermosa. Table 3.0-2 (PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations) identifies the land use designations and allowable densities. Table 3.0-3 (PLAN Hermosa Residential Development Projections) identifies anticipated residential land use changes that would occur between 2015 and 2040 with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, while Table 3.0-4 (PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Development Projections) identifies corresponding changes for nonresidential uses in the city. These projections were calculated based on specific trends in the city, including: • Loss of housing units — Through demolition and reconstruction as single-family homes, the city experienced a decrease in the overall number of housing units from 10,162 to 10,110 between 2010 and 2015. This is consistent with a recent local trend in which properties with multi -family units are demolished and replaced with a single-family unit. This trend may be expected to continue in the near term. • Growing size of households — Between 2008 and 2012, the city observed an increase in average household size from 2.00 to 2.08. This number is indicative of a growing number of families in Hermosa Beach, which affects the ratio of adult residents and subsequently the trip generation of family versus nonfamily households. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 3.0-6 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION While the residential land use designations have the ability to accommodate an additional 440 total residential units, only a portion of those parcels are likely to redevelop. The City's residential program estimates that approximately 300 residential units may be added in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years based on an analysis of vacant and underutilized parcels. In addition, Hermosa Beach could accommodate an additional 630,400 square feet of nonresidential development between 2015 and 2040 as shown in the tables below. TABLE 3.0-2 PLAN HERMOSA LAND USE DESIGNATIONS Land Use Designation ` Definition Density/Intensity Low Density Residential Single-family residential (attached or detached) 2.0-13.0 DU/AC Medium Density Residential Single-family residential and small-scale multi -family residential (duplex, triplex, condominium) 13.1-25.0 DU/AC High Density Residential Medium (8-20 unit buildings) and large-scale (20+ unit buildings) multi -family residential 25.1-33.0 DU/AC Mobile Home Mobile home parks, where two or more lots are rented or leased to accommodate mobile homes for human habitation 2.0-13.0 DU/AC Neighborhood Convenience stores, markets, eateries, laundromats, or similar uses to primarily serve local walk-in traffic 0.5-1.0 FAR Community Locally oriented uses including retail stores, restaurants, professional and medical offices, and personal services 0.5-1.25 FAR Recreational Coastal -related uses such as beach/bike rentals, restaurants, snack shops, retail. lodging accommodations, entertainment, and similar uses 1.0-1.75 FAR Gateway Lower -floor community or regionally oriented commercial uses with upper -floor high -visitor office or hotel uses 1.0-2.0 FAR Service Home improvement stores, furniture stores, auto dealerships, and light automotive service stations 0.25-0.5 FAR Light Industrial Production uses for light manufacturing, creative art, or design services with professional office as an allowed accessory use 0.25-1.0 FAR Public Facility Civic -related offices, community centers, operational facilities, and educational/institutional facilities 0.10-1.0 FAR Open Space Passive and active park, recreational, open space uses, and educational/institutional facilities 0.0-0.5 FAR Beach Coastal -related recreational activities and essential public facilities (lifeguard and restrooms) 0.0-0.05 FAR DU/AC = dwelling units per acre; FAR = floor area ratio Italicized designations indicate the new or altered land use designations introduced through PLAN Hermosa. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-7 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-4 PLAN HERMOSA LAND USE DESIGNATIONS DIAGRAM hermosa beach land use designations 75 7 70 2 a E E 8 Q 0 -10th St -+ "cs t^.d -Ga • -113 low density medium density high density mobile home neighborhood community recreational gateway service light industrial public facility open space beach ..j _] city limits ftio �• , coastal zone 0 400' 800' 0" 1" 2" PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-8 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION TABLE 3.0-3 PLAN HERMOSA RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTIONS Land Use Designation ` Acres Existing Units ` (2015) New Units (2015-2040) Total Units (2040) Low Density Residential 240 3,214 20 3,234 Medium Density Residential 198 2,593 150 2,743 High Density Residential 100 4,085 100 4,185 Neighborhood Commercial 3 50 30 80 Community Commercial 38 104 — 104 Recreational Commercial 7 36 — 36 Gateway Commercial 24 11 — 11 Service Commercial 5 12 — 12 Light Industrial 6 4 — 4 Total 621 10,109 300 10,409 Note: This information is based on growth forecasts provided in the City's letter with the subject: Hermosa Beach Response to SCAG's Integrated Growth Forecast to the Southern California Association of Governments. See Appendix A. TABLE 3.0-4 PLAN HERMOSA NONRESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTIONS Land Use Designation Acres Existing Building Sq. Ft. (2015) New Building Sq. Ft. (2015-2040) Total Building Sq. Ft. (2040) Neighborhood Commercial 3 93,900 8,800 102,700 Community Commercial 38 976,200 154,500 1,130,700 Recreational Commercial 7 226,300 176,500 402,800 Gateway Commercial 24 595,200 231,700 826,900 Service Commercial 5 82,800 22,100 104,900 Light Industrial 6 132,000 36,800 168,800 Total 83 2,106,400 630,400 2,736,800 Note: This information is based on growth forecasts provided in the City's letter with the subject Hermosa Beach Response to SCAG's Integrated Growth Forecast to the Southern California Association of Governments. See Appendix A. Goals presented in the Land Use + Design Element include the following: • Livable Urban Pattern - Create a sustainable urban form and land use pattern that supports a robust and resilient economy and high quality of life for residents. • Complete and Diverse Neighborhoods - Neighborhoods provide for diverse needs of residents of all ages and abilities, and are organized to support healthy and active lifestyles. • Unique and Vibrant Districts - A series of unique, destination -oriented districts throughout Hermosa Beach. • Connected and Walkable Corridors - A variety of corridors throughout the city provide opportunities for shopping, recreation, commerce, employment, and circulation. • Quality Urban Design - Quality and authenticity in architecture and site design in all construction and renovation of buildings. • Public Realm and Pedestrian -Scale Design - A pedestrian -focused urban form that creates visual interest and a comfortable outdoor environment. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-9 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION • Educational and Community Facilities - Adequate space and appropriate integration of community and school facilities that support physical activity, civic life, and social connections for residents of all ages and interests. • Accommodations in the Coastal Zone - A range of coastal -dependent and visitor -serving uses available to serve a variety of income ranges and amenity desires. • Space for Renewable Energy - Local energy independence through renewable energy generation. • Celebrated Examples of the City's Rich History- A strong sense of cultural and architectural heritage. • A Vibrant Artistic Community - A proud and visible identity as an arts and cultural community. • Venues and Space for Artistic Expression - A mix of cultural facilities that support and encourage the community's vibrant range of art creation and presentation. Each goal is supported by policies in the Land Use + Design Element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. The element's key implementation action is an update to the Zoning Ordinance and Local Coastal Implementation Plan. Character areas—split into neighborhoods, corridors, and districts and shown in Figure 3.0-5 (Character Areas)—have been defined and described to highlight the unique features or characteristics of the different areas of Hermosa Beach. Each character area description includes the intended future vision and proposed guidelines to help maintain, enhance, or transform the building form and public realm of each area. A summary of each area is included in Table 3.0-5 (Character Areas and Future Visions). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 3.0-10 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION TABLE 3.0-5 CHARACTER AREAS AND FUTURE VISIONS Character Area Future Vision Neighborhoods North End To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form and scale and maintain neighborhood connectivity and access to nearby commercial services. Hermosa View To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form, orientation, or scale and retain the unique streetscape with wide parkways and uninterrupted sidewalks. Walk Street To achieve the intent, the City should maintain the high quality pedestrian connections through the walk streets and retain the form, scale, and orientation of buildings in this area. Sand Section To achieve the intent, the City should enhance multimodal connectivity and access while preserving the building form, scale, and orientation in this neighborhood. Valley To achieve the intent, the City should improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single-family development pattern of this area. Herondo To achieve the intent, the City should preserve the scale and building form of this neighborhood and maintain connections and access to nearby amenities. Greenbelt To achieve the intent, the City should maintain the building scale and form of this neighborhood, while enhancing access to local neighborhood -serving commercial uses. Hermosa Hills The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single-family development pattern of this area. Eastside To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form, orientation, and scale and retain the quiet nature and unique streetscape of this area. Districts Downtown To achieve the intent, buildings should enhance form and orientation and maintain the pedestrian realm along Pier Avenue while transforming the realm on Hermosa Avenue. Civic Center To achieve the intent, buildings should transform the orientation and design in the Civic Center, while enhancing the streetscape and circulation of all modes and users. Cypress To achieve the intent, buildings should transform both the design and orientation as well as the public realm and streetscape within the Cypress area. Corridors Aviation To achieve the intent, buildings should transform building design, form, and orientation while enhancing the streetscape and access for pedestrians and bicycles in this area. Pacific Coast Highway To achieve the intent, the City should enhance building design and form, and transform streetscapes and gateways to serve pedestrians and improve vehicular circulation. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-11 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-5 CHARACTER AREAS hermosa beach character areas desia ,,,Blvd • I` c d v 0 ■ 0 0 ■ 0 0 v north end hermosa view walk street sand section valley herondo greenbelt hermosa hills eastside downtown civic center cypress aviation pacific coast highway a —� . [ 1 city limits co o Li coastal zone o 400' 800' 1 \ o" t" 2" PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-12 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Mobility Element The Mobility Element identifies the proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, and alternative transportation facilities necessary to support a multimodal transportation system. This element is intended to facilitate the movement of people and goods throughout Hermosa Beach by a variety of transportation modes. The element places a balanced emphasis on all modes including: bicycle and pedestrian modes, alternative -fuel vehicle use, and parking management in the Coastal Zone. The Mobility Element outlines a transportation system needed to support the land uses outlined in the Land Use + Design Element and regional growth factors identified in county -wide and region -wide plans. The Mobility Element describes each component of the city's transportation system and presents future enhancements to the system that advance the following goals: • Complete Streets - Complete Streets that serve the diverse functions of mobility, commerce, recreation, and community engagement for all users whether they travel by walking, bicycling, transit, or driving. • Living Streets - A public realm that is safe, comfortable, and convenient for travel via foot, bicycle, transit, and automobile and creates vibrant, people -oriented public spaces that encourage active living. • Streets for Everyone - Public right-of-ways supporting a multimodal and people -oriented transportation system that provides diversity and flexibility on how users choose to be mobile. • Managed Parking - A parking system that meets the parking needs and demand of residents, visitors, and employees in an efficient and cost-effective manner. • Low -Carbon Sustainable Transport - A robust low-cost and low -carbon transportation system that promotes the City's environmental sustainability and stewardship goals in support of social and economic objectives. • Local and Regional Connectivity - A regionally integrated transportation system that provides local and regional connections to regional transit services, bicycle facilities, and other intermodal facilities. • Vision Zero - A transportation system that results in zero transportation -related fatalities and which minimizes injuries. • Efficient Commercial Goods Movement - Facilitates sustainable, effective, and safe movement of goods and commercial vehicles. Each goal is supported by policies in the Mobility Element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. The key implementation actions for the Mobility Element are organized around goals to improve safety, enhance access, and support greater choice in transportation options. Street Classifications Streets are not equal in function or in their service of different travel modes. The Mobility Element's system of street classifications will inform future roadway improvements and performance measurement for new and reconfigured streets to carry out mobility priorities more effectively and to balance the needs of all travel modes. Definitions of street classifications consider surrounding land uses and designate priority levels for different travel modes within each street type. Combined, the types represent a hierarchical network linked to typical design standards and anticipated traffic levels. For each street type, the Mobility Element provides a definition and design guidelines that illustrate how the street space is divided among roadway, sidewalk, parkway, and other modes. The street classifications outline the rights-of-way required for each arterial and collector street to accommodate vehicle traffic, transit movement, bicycle system implementation, and pedestrian circulation needs. The classifications also provide design guidance, priorities, and requirements for each street type. These are considered general guidelines for street corridors. Each street City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-13 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION classification is defined in Table 3.0-6 (Proposed Transportation Network Descriptions) and locations of each type of facility are illustrated in Figure 3.0-6 (Proposed Street Classifications), Figure 3.0-7 (Proposed Pedestrian Network), Figure 3.0-8 (Proposed Bicycle and Multi -Use Network), Figure 3.0-9 (Proposed Transportation Amenities), and Figure 3.0-10 (Proposed Safe Routes to School Network). Multimodal Transportation System The Mobility Element places a priority on the development of a multimodal transportation system in the city. The current street system comprises three functional systems: arterials, collectors, and local streets with low walking and biking priority. The goals and policies identified in the Mobility Element serve to encourage greater individual choice to move throughout the city by developing multi -use path connections to key destinations in order to reduce auto dependency and improve transit, bicycle, and pedestrian connectivity. This would serve to decrease traffic, increase mobility and access to jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the Hermosa Beach community's overall health, wellness, and quality of life. Concepts identified in the Mobility Element include redesign of Pacific Coast Highway to improve its local function as a community focal point and gathering place. Potential redesign for the roadway could include wider sidewalks and streetscape improvements such as benches and pedestrian -scale lighting. Enhancing a multimodal transportation system and shifting travel patterns away from the automobile to alternative modes of transportation, including public transit (both regional and local), walking, and biking, would alleviate congestion throughout the city. TABLE 3.0-6 PROPOSED TRANSPORTATION NETWORK DESCRIPTIONS Street Type Description Alleyway Provide access to private properties, including parking spaces and garages. Local Street Provide connections within and between neighborhoods. Local streets are not intended to serve through vehicular traffic and are generally one lane in each direction with a lower volume of vehicles. Arterial (major + minor) Carry the majority of vehicles entering, leaving, or traveling through the city. Major and minor arterials are differentiated by the volume of vehicles using the street and width of the right-of-way. Walk Street A street segment designed to exclude vehicular use, for pedestrians and non -motorized transportation. Local Sidewalk Provide contiguous and level walking space primarily on low-volume residential streets. Wide Sidewalk Provide adequate space for a frontage zone, pedestrian zone, and buffer/greenspace zone on commercial streets. Priority Sidewalk Facilities essential to providing a safe, accessible, and well-connected pedestrian network. Multi Use Path A two-way facility separated from motor vehicles (adjacent to or independent of roadways) for use by pedestrians, joggers, skaters, and bicyclists. Shared Roadway A street segment that functions as a space for multiple users and intermittently as a gathering space, without delineations for each mode. Bike Lane Provide preferential or exclusive use of a portion of the roadway for bicyclists through striping or markings. Sharrows Combine bicycle stencils with chevrons placed in the center of the travel lane. Bring awareness to drivers that bicycles share the lane and may use the full lane. Bike Boulevard Allow bicyclists and motorists to share the same travel lanes to facilitate safe and convenient bicycle travel. They are low-volume streets optimized for bicyclists and pedestrians. Local Trolley A local electric or zero emissions trolley, in coordination with parking facilities, provides enhanced access to the beach and downtown. Electric Vehicle and Bike Parking Electric vehicle and bike parking facilities support the use of alternative modes to key destinations. Crossing Control Crossing control facilities (stop sign, signal, traffic circle) ensure efficient and safe intersections for all travel modes. Parking District District -based parking helps manage parking supply and more efficiently use space dedicated for parking. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-14 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-6 PROPOSED STREET CLASSIFICATIONS hermosa beach c;4 alleyway ° Z local street v a ® minor arterial V 12 0 major arterial .E _j city limits c IBJ coastal zone .a City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-15 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-7 PROPOSED PEDESTRIAN NETWORK hermosa beach ra m walk street .° wide sidewalk 0c h priority sidewalk local sidewalk PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-16 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-8 PROPOSED BICYCLE AND MULTI -USE NETWORK sagoo itraks,ft/7 Air 14` 1 � 0 CD --14t l -Pier -Ave 10th H- a I I- 2 0 of co I CD L 16th St 8th S d St ries/ 81 5th St CD hermosa beach a shared roadway a. '^ multi -use path ! ICJ or buffered - bike lane to bike lane y"o ®sharrows Ea bike blvd . I :'1 city limits o p ] coastal zone o 400' 800' 0" 1" 2" City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-17 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-9 PROPOSED TRANSPORTATION AMENMES CD 4 /r N 0 rt\ f 14tq.s�. rocn`Y z 9 0 ier *ve otisL ii ,16th St -♦ •i m:. • 8thi Sts _s. rt. s .41 Blvd 1 C% • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION FIGURE 3.0-10 PROPOSED SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL NETWORK eSiaP4' High School Mira Costa crossing guard locations d ,,, hermosa beach safe routes to school Eschools \ safe routes to school network stop signs r• signals school access points I. 240 St d h ' Hermosa Valley School 19th St 18th St Hermosa ` View School 14th St 10thstI L♦ Redondo Union/ High School .9 i city limits Q L j coastal zone 0 400 800' 10 0" 1" 2" City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 3.0-19 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Sustainability + Conservation The Sustainability + Conservation Element includes goals and policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote improved air quality and water quality, and promote energy-efficient green building practices. The element's primary objective is to set Hermosa Beach on a path toward a low -carbon future. The Sustainability + Conservation Element details measures to improve air quality in the city. This element also addresses the use of green building practices to reduce energy use and preserve the environment. Additionally, the element addresses the preservation of renewable and nonrenewable natural resources; managed production of resources, such as energy and groundwater; solid waste reduction and recycling; regional geology and soil erosion; provision of beach nourishment programs; and mineral resources. The goals addressing the conservation of natural resources targeting water conservation, energy conservation, green building, air quality, and recycling and solid waste are as follows: • A Low -Carbon Municipality - Hermosa Beach is a low -carbon municipal organization, reducing greenhouse gas emissions at a rate that meets or exceeds 80% below 2005 levels by 2030. • A Low -Carbon Community - Hermosa Beach is a low -carbon community meeting State greenhouse gas reduction goals by 2040. • Air Quality Improved - Improved air quality and reduced quantities of air pollution emissions. • Energy Efficient Community - A leader in reducing energy consumption and renewable energy production. • Leaders In Water Conservation - Water conservation practices, recycled water use, and innovative water technologies support a low -carbon community. • Low or No Waste to Landfills - Hermosa Beach is a low or zero -waste community with convenient and effective options for recycling, composting, and diverting waste from landfills. • Retained Topsoil and Reduced Erosion - Essential topsoil is retained and erosion is minimized. Each goal is supported by policies in the Sustainability + Conservation Element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. The element's key implementation actions include a commitment to green building, energy conservation, and renewable energy production to maintain valuable resources over the long term, cut utility costs for businesses and residents, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Parks + Open Space Element The Parks + Open Space Element includes coastal policies and actions for beach programming, special events, the protection of scenic resources and views, and the preservation of natural habitat and wildlife. The City provides a high rate of parks/open space per resident, more than half of which is sandy beach. However, park space across the city is not evenly distributed among neighborhoods, especially those east of Pacific Coast Highway. See Figure 3.0-11 (Parks and Public Facilities). The following goals are outlined in the Parks + Open Space Element: • First -Class Facilities - First-class, well-maintained, and safe recreational facilities, parks, and open spaces. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 3.0-20 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION • Abundant Parks and Open Space - Abundant parks, open space, and recreational facilities to serve the community. • Parks as a Place for Social Interaction - Community parks and facilities encourage social activity and interaction. • Direct and Accessible Routes to Parks - Direct and accessible routes and connections to parks, recreational facilities, and open space. • Enhanced Scenic Views and Vistas - Scenic vistas, viewpoints, and resources are maintained and enhanced. • Superior Access to the Coast -The coast and its recreational facilities are easily accessible from many locations and by multiple transportation modes. • Balanced Management of Beach Amenities - The beach offers high quality recreational opportunities and amenities desired by the community. • Events for Everyone - Balanced level of special events to support community recreation and economic development without restricting coastal access or impacting the community. • Habitats and Wildlife Protected - Coastal and marine habitat resources and wildlife are protected. • Abundant Trees and Green Space - Abundant landscaping, trees, and green space provided throughout the community. Each goal is supported by policies in the Parks + Open Space Element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. The element's key implementation actions include development of a beach management program and a network of trails. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-21 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Mri J-1 61Irayar31st S23 1 Gi 112 h St 6th St FIGURE 3.0-11 PARKS AND PUBLIC FACILITIES mirtftlift 3 24th s, " 1 9th 1 w r 11 0 St nd St -16th St 16 17 1 0 11* hermosa beach parks + public facilities city limi s— coasta(zone_ shaffer park El valley park _,E1 valley greenbelt sea view park scout parkette greenwood park fort lots -of -fun park edith rodaway park oceanview parkette moondust parkette city beach, strand, pier noble park • A`i7'QIVd -18th S -19th St- f21s 4th St —8th St : 12 X14 clark stadium 8th + valley parkette EDI south park ardmore park bi-centennial park 16 ii7, kay etow parkette —lotnst-.9' seaawrightaetsandhi!! prkte community center + skate park 24 6th St 5th St j 8 10- -A 18 - 20 Eg view school valley school north school prospect ave building 1 0 400' 800' 0" 1" 2" PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 1 3.0-22 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Public Safety Element The Public Safety Element establishes goals and policies that through their implementation would protect the community from risk associated with known natural and man-made hazards (e.g., geologic, flood, fire, and hazardous materials) and sets standards for emergency preparedness. The element places specific focus on coastal hazards that would be made more severe with anticipated sea level rise. This element also incorporates the State -required Noise Element, identifying goals, policies, and actions addressing major noise sources, existing and future noise levels, and the location and noise exposure of existing and proposed sensitive receptors. The element describes implementation of noise reduction methods and measures that employ current and innovative practices. The following Public Safety Element goals provide Hermosa Beach with a framework for keeping residents, businesses, and visitors safe from natural and human hazards, including excessive noise levels. • Minimize Hazard Risk - Injuries and loss of life are prevented, and property loss and damage are minimized. • Consideration of Sea Level Rise - The anticipated effects of sea level rise are understood, prepared for, and successfully mitigated. • Protection from Hazardous Materials - Hermosa Beach residents, businesses, and coastal resources are protected from hazardous materials. • Community Capacity and Preparedness - Community capacity and preparedness for unavoidable hazards. • Highly Responsive Emergency Response Services - High quality police and fire protection services provided to residents and visitors. • A Resilient Community - Hermosa Beach is prepared for and recovers quickly from natural disasters. • Noise Compatibility- Noise compatibility is considered in the land use planning and design process. • Reduced Transportation Noise - Transportation noise sources are minimized. In addition, the City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is incorporated in the Public Safety Element by reference. Each goal is supported by policies in the element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. Infrastructure Element The Infrastructure Element outlines policies and guidelines to maintain and improve infrastructure systems, including the water supply system, sewer system, storm drain system, and telecommunications and utilities in the city. This element recommends new development approaches that incorporate low -impact development standards to manage stormwater runoff and identifies new and innovative technologies to be incorporated in new development. The goals addressing the City's provision of high quality infrastructure and maintenance of infrastructure in a way that reduces ongoing costs include: • High Quality Infrastructure Systems - Infrastructure systems are functional, safe, and well maintained. • Well -Maintained and Attractive Streets - Roadway infrastructure maintenance supports convenient, attractive, and complete streets and associated amenities. • Resilient Water Supply - Adequate water supplies from diverse sources provide for the needs of current and future residents, businesses, and visitors. • Modernized Sewer System - The sewer system infrastructure is modernized and resilient. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-23 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION • Innovative Stormwater Management — The stormwater management system is safe, sanitary, and environmentally and fiscally sustainable. • Reliable and Environmentally Sustainable Utility Services — Utility services are reliable, affordable, and renewable. • Advanced Telecommunication Network — A reliable and efficient telecommunications network available to every resident, business, and institution. Each goal is supported by policies in the Infrastructure Element and actions in the Implementation Plan describing how the goals will be achieved. GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PLAN The Implementation Plan outlines actions that will guide the City's elected officials, commission and committee members, staff, and the public in the overall effort to implement PLAN Hermosa goals and policies. Each outlined action is a procedure, program, or technique that requires the City to act, either alone or in collaboration with non -City organizations or with federal and state agencies. Some of the actions describe processes or procedures the City currently administers on a day-to- day basis (such as review of development projects), while others require new programs or projects. Completion of each of the identified actions is subject to funding availability. Additionally, some implementation actions require physical improvements to existing infrastructure and facilities. The PLAN Hermosa policies and the Implementation Plan were all studied in this EIR at the programmatic level. However, some of the implementation actions listed in Table 3.0-7 (Implementation Actions with Direct Physical Changes) that will require direct physical changes to the environment may require future project -level CEQA review when implemented, because it is too speculative at this time to know the detail of the project (location, size, construction methods, etc.). TABLE 3.0-7 IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS WITH DIRECT PHYSICAL CHANGES Mobility MOBILITY -1. Conduct an inventory and assessment of the City's sidewalk network to identify gaps, assess ADA accessibility, and prioritize improvements within the Capital Improvement Program. MOBILITY -2. Evaluate City right-of-ways and establish or update width and design standards for the construction or maintenance of streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and parkways. MOBILITY -4. Install new signage and instructions for accessing transit locations, local and regional bicycle routes, and parking meters/machines in the Coastal Zone where existing meters and machines have been shown to cause confusion for visitors. MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. MOBILITY -16. Install additional bicycle parking facilities and wayfinding signage near the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. MOBILITY -17. Identify access improvements including, but not limited to, additional bus stop pullouts, bus parking locations, a seasonal shuttle system, and drop off/pick up areas, and prioritize these improvements in the five-year Capital Improvement Program. Sustainability + Conservation PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-24 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUSTAINABILITY -4. Identify, prioritize; and implement greenhouse gas reduction projects utilizing the City's carbon reduction planning tools for community and municipal operations. SUSTAINABILITY -15. For City -sponsored renovation or remodeling projects, identify a list of qualified services that offer salvage services and maximize the use of such services. Parks + Open Space PARKS -5. Where appropriate, construct parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities at street ends as they intersect with The Strand. PARKS -9. Install accessible walkways at parks and onto the beach while minimizing or avoiding negative effects on the aesthetics and ecology of the beach environment. PARKS -15. Develop and implement a uniform coastal access sign program to assist the public to locate and use coastal access points. Consider adding signs to walk streets that intersect with Hermosa Avenue. PARKS -16. Identify and remove any unauthorized/unpermitted structures, including signs and fences that inhibit visibility of public coastal access points. Public Safety SAFETY -15. Develop a long-term adaptive shoreline management program with a strong preference for beach replenishment over shoreline protective structures. SAFETY -21. Enhance and maintain Police Department staffing and facilities to meet established proactive time targets and clearance rates that exceed national averages. SAFETY -27. Review critical facilities proposed for development or expansion to ensure that hazardous conditions are mitigated or hazard reduction features are incorporated to the satisfaction of the responsible agencies. SAFETY -29. Incorporate or request from Caltrans the inclusion of soundwalls, earthen berms, or other acoustical barriers as part of any roadway improvement project adjacent to a residential area, school, or other sensitive land use, where necessary to mitigate identified adverse significant noise impacts. Infrastructure INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. • Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. • Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. • Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. INFRASTRUCTURE -5. Require, as a part of development review, new development and redevelopment projects to designate areas where public infrastructure must be accommodated and to require either a land dedication or provision of the needed infrastructure by the project applicant. INFRASTRUCTURE -8. Improve the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying the following standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation: • New utilities must be located away from, or constructed in a manner compatible with, critical habitat areas, resources, and the shoreline. Physical and service constraints may not allow relocation away from or full compatibility with such areas and resources. INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -20. Complete municipal demonstration projects showing residential and business property best practices in urban runoff, green streets, and UD. INFRASTRUCTURE -22. Continue to install educational signs or symbols on major public storm drains. INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-25 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Government Code Section 65400 dictates that the Implementation Plan will be used to prepare the Annual Report to the City Council. The Annual Report will demonstrate the status of the City's progress in implementing the General Plan. Because many of the individual actions also act as mitigation for environmental impacts resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the Annual Report can also serve as a means of monitoring application of mitigation measures specified in this EIR, in compliance with the requirements for Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Programs, as specified by Public Resources Code Section 21081.6. Table 3.0-8 (Implementation Actions Used in this EIR) outlines the implementation actions that are used in this EIR to support mitigation of potential environmental impacts. TABLE 3.0-8 IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS USED IN THIS EIR Aesthetics LAND USE -3. Include provisions within the Zoning Code to avoid significant shadow impacts from new structures onto public recreational areas, parks or other public gathering places consistent with industry standards for evaluating shade and shadow impacts. PARKS -10. Develop and apply evaluation procedures for development projects that have the potential to substantially obstruct, substantially interfere, or substantially degrade Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Evaluation requirements, criteria, and provisions to allow exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards for projects with the potential to substantially obstruct, interfere or degrade Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas shall be incorporated into the review process for Precise Development Plans under Chapter 17.58 of the Zoning Ordinance as follows: • Projects located adjacent to and within the directional arrow of a Prominent Public Viewpoint, or within the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, as identified in PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, shall be evaluated to determine the potential to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from Prominent Public Viewpoints, or the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. • The evaluation will be based on quantitative criteria established and adopted by the City to evaluate potential impacts to visual quality, landform quality, community character, and view quality. • Projects that are determined to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from these public views shall be designed to reasonably minimize the substantial obstruction, interruption or detraction to views from the Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, which may include an exception to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards. The purpose of the exception would be to accommodate the bulk of the building in a manner that minimizes the impact to the public view while providing the property owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. • Landscaping material shall be used to screen uses that detract from the scenic quality of the coast from Prominent Public Viewpoints. PARKS -11. Protect public views of the Pacific Ocean by establishing and applying requirements for public works and infrastructure projects such as: • Locate new and relocated utilities underground when possible. Place and screen all other utilities to minimize public visibility. • Replace automobile -scale streetlights with shorter, pedestrian -scale streetlights where safe and appropriate. • Fences, walls, and landscaping shall not block views of scenic areas from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, parks, beaches, and other public viewing areas. • Hardscape elements such as retaining walls, cut-off walls, abutments, bridges, and culverts shall incorporate veneers, texturing, and colors that blend with the surrounding earth materials or landscape. PARKS -12. Minimize nighttime Tight pollution by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • Exterior lighting (except traffic lights, navigational lights, and other similar safety lighting) shall be minimized, restricted to low intensity fixtures, shielded (full cutoff), and downcast (emitting no light above the horizontal plane of the fixture) concealed to the maximum feasible extent so that no light source is directly visible from public viewing areas, there is no glare or spill beyond the property lines and the lamp bulb is not directly visible from within any residential unit. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-26 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION PARKS -13. Minimize the negative aesthetic impacts of signs by establishing or revising and applying the following design requirements: • Enforce appropriate limits on height, size, design, and materials of signs. • Prohibit signs other than traffic or public safety signs that would obstruct views to the ocean, beach, parks, or other scenic areas. • Enforce sign maintenance controls. • Continue restrictions on the use of lights and moving parts in signs, billboards, and rooftop signs. Air Quality LAND USE -12. Create a checklist and resource guide comprising local, state, and federal requirements for the development of offshore renewable energy facilities to streamline permitting requirements and improve public awareness. MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. MOBILITY -19. Develop congestion management performance measures and significant impact thresholds that are in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) requirements for roadway segments and intersections. SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to provide an option to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated above established thresholds, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. SUSTAINABILITY -6. Implement the City's clean fleet policy through the purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. SUSTAINABILITY -7. Concurrent with new State Building Code adoptions, periodically update or amend Green Building Standards and conduct cost effectiveness studies to incorporate additional energy -efficiency and energy production features. SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. SUSTAINABILITY -16. Revise the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure it reflects up-to-date practices to reduce potential for soil erosion and ways to minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on the loss of topsoil. SUSTAINABILITY -17. Develop a citywide expansive and corrosive soils screening tool to reduce the need for site-specific soil reports. PARKS -19. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. SAFETY -17. Provide information, opportunities, and incentives to the community for the proper disposal of toxic materials to avoid environmental degradation to the air, soil, and water resources from toxic materials contamination. INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. Biological Resources LAND USE -12. Create a checklist and resource guide comprising local, state, and federal requirements for the development of offshore renewable energy facilities to streamline permitting requirements and improve public awareness. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-27 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION PARKS -21. Partner with local nonprofits such as the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission or the University of California, Los Angeles, to conduct education demonstration projects or presentations on coastal and marine habitat conservation. PARKS -22. Evaluate existing beach conditions and identify areas that may be appropriate to restore vegetated dune habitat. Pursue grant funding. PARKS -23. Review and revise as needed, the City's tree ordinance to ensure protection of existing parkway trees, and update the master tree list. PARKS -24. Complete and maintain a citywide public tree inventory, including quantity, species type, diameter, condition, trimming strategies and geo-codes and recommendations. PARKS -25. Maintain a list of approved plantings for trees and landscaping within City parkways. PARKS -26. Amend the Municipal Code to incorporate tree removal and replacement requirements in the public right of way. If preservation of existing mature trees is not feasible, removed trees shall be replaced at a minimum 2:1 ratio either on-site or elsewhere as prescribed by the City. Cultural Resources GOVERNANCE -5. Incorporate guidance related to Native American consultation and treatment of prehistoric and Native American resources into local CEQA guidelines for Hermosa Beach. LAND USE -2. Establish development standards within the Zoning Code to establish any new land use designations and modify existing development standards to articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area and the applicable density/intensity standards. LAND USE -3. Include provisions within the Zoning Code to avoid significant shadow impacts from new structures onto public recreational areas, parks or other public gathering places consistent with industry standards for evaluating shade and shadow impacts. LAND USE -13. Amend the CEQA documentation and initial study process to ensure cultural and historical resources are studied in accordance with CEQA and any local historic preservation program. LAND USE -15. Review and update eligibility criteria to use in the designation of local historic sites or historic districts. LAND USE -16. Develop emergency preparedness and disaster response plans for cultural resources, including a recovery action plan that addresses long-range decisions likely to be faced by the City following a major disaster, including economic recovery, protocols for demolition or restoration of damaged historic structures, and fee deferral for repair permits. LAND USE -17. Create a program to provide for the voluntary installation of plaques and/or public art related to historic buildings and sites in the city. LAND USE -18. Research and develop innovative policies for preserving historic properties. LAND USE -19. Work with community organizations to develop brochures, guides, walking tours, and other marketing materials to highlight existing public art in Hermosa Beach. LAND USE -20. Develop historic preservation expertise among staff and decision makers on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, preservation ordinances, the State Historical Building Code, environmental review for historical resources, and tax credits and incentives. LAND USE -21. All discretionary projects that include ground disturbance or excavation activities on previously undisturbed land shall be required to conduct archaeological investigations in accordance with CEQA regulations to determine if the project is sensitive for cultural resources. Additionally, as the Lead Agency for future discretionary projects, the City is required under AB 52 to notify tribal organizations of proposed projects and offer to consult with those tribal organizations that indicate interest. Following any tribal consultation or archaeological investigation, the City shall weigh and consider available evidence to determine whether there is a potential risk for disturbing or damaging any cultural or tribal resources and whether any precautionary measures can be required to reduce or eliminate that risk. Those precautions may include requiring construction workers to complete training on archaeological and tribal resources before any ground disturbance activity and/or requiring a qualified archaeologist or tribal representative to monitor some or all of the ground disturbance activities. The City shall require the preservation of discovered archaeologically significant resources (as determined based on city, state, and federal standards by a qualified professional) in place if feasible or provide mitigation (avoidance, excavation, documentation, curation, data recovery, or other appropriate measures) prior to further disturbance. Geology and Soils PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-28 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUSTAINABILITY -16. Revise the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure it reflects up-to-date practices to reduce potential for soil erosion and ways to minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on the loss of topsoil. SUSTAINABILITY -17. Develop a citywide expansive and corrosive soils screening tool to reduce the need for site-specific soil reports. SAFETY -1. Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate local amendments. SAFETY -2. Continue to inventory unreinforced brick masonry, soft -story, and other seismically vulnerable private buildings. Identify potential funding sources to assist with seismic retrofits. SAFETY -3. Enforce seismic design provisions of the current California Building Standards Code related to geologic, seismic, and slope hazards, with appropriate local amendments. SAFETY -4. For properties identified as possibly containing acidic, expansive, or collapsible soils, require site-specific soil condition reports and appropriate mitigation as a condition of new development. SAFETY -6. Evaluate the landslide potential of a project site and require implementation of landslide mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, areas prone to landslide are found. Potential landslide mitigation measures include, but are not limited to the following: • Avoidance: Developments should be built sufficiently far away from the threat that they will not be affected even if a landslide does occur. • Reduction: Reduction of landslide hazards should be achieved by increasing the factor of safety of the landslide area to an acceptable level, based on current engineering standards and practices. This can be accommodated by eliminating slopes with active/inactive landslides, removing the unstable soil and rock materials, or applying one or more appropriate slope stabilization methods (such as buttress fills, subdrains, soil nailing, crib walls, etc.) SAFETY -7. Require projects located within the Liquefaction Areas identified in PLAN Hermosa to evaluate the liquefaction potential and require implementation of mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, shallow groundwater (60 feet or less) and potentially liquefiable soils are found. Potential liquefaction mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, soil densification or compaction, displacement or compaction grouting, and use of post -tensioned slab foundations, piles, or caissons. Greenhouse Gas Emissions SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to provide an option to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated above established thresholds, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. SUSTAINABILITY -4. Identify, prioritize, and implement greenhouse gas reduction projects utilizing the City's carbon reduction planning tools for community and municipal operations. SUSTAINABILITY -5. Regularly monitor and evaluate the City's greenhouse gas emissions inventory and report on progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals. Hazards and Hazardous Materials SAFETY -16. Include updated hazardous materials considerations in regular Emergency Operation Plan updates and work with the County of Los Angeles to update local Hazardous Materials Area Plans on a regular basis. SAFETY -17. Provide information, opportunities, and incentives to the community for the proper disposal of toxic materials to avoid environmental degradation to the air, soil, and water resources from toxic materials contamination. SAFETY -18. Designate an emergency response team to monitor and respond to regional disasters such as oil spills and other shoreline disasters. Such a team must maintain an emergency response plan that includes coordination with other agencies and jurisdictions in the region on initial response, aid, and recovery. SAFETY -24. Periodically update the emergency operations plan. SAFETY -25. Periodically update the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and concurrently amend the Public Safety Element to maintain eligibility for maximum grant funding. SAFETY -28. Identify hazard -specific evacuation routes and share with the public, businesses, and other government agencies. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-29 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Hydrology and Water Quality SUSTAINABILITY -9. Maintain and periodically update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan sections of the Municipal Code to facilitate the use of new technologies or practices to conserve water. SAFETY -5. Evaluate tsunami preparation, evacuation, and response policies/practices to reflect current inundation maps and design standards. Include updated information in the periodically updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. SAFETY -9. Continue working with regional partners to develop a local sea level rise model that evaluates erosion potential, provides detailed inundation maps, and provides combined sea level rise and tsunami maps. SAFETY -10. When the mean high water level exceeds 1 foot above the baseline level, partner with FEMA as a cooperating technical partner to conduct a Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study, and facilitate necessary revisions to applicable Flood Insurance Rate Maps. SAFETY -11. Prepare for changing shoreline conditions by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • Require new development or redevelopment project proposals within the designated area subject to flooding, inundation, or erosion due to sea level rise to describe and illustrate in site plans how the proposed project considers and mitigates potential flood hazards during the economic lifespan of the structure. Potential flood mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, flood proofing; increased ground floor elevation (a minimum of 1 -foot freeboard); ground -floor, flood -resistant exterior materials; and restricting fencing or yard enclosures that cause water to pond. • Require new development or redevelopment projects to assure stability and structural integrity and neither create nor contribute significantly to erosion, geologic instability, or destruction of the project site or surrounding area. • As local flood, erosion, and tsunami data becomes more precise, amend the General Plan and Zoning Code to establish more specific development standards and conditions. SAFETY -12. Amend the Municipal Code to establish a definition of "economic lifespan" for structural development as between 75 to 100 years, unless otherwise specified, and provide restrictions for specific development proposals. SAFETY -13. Amend the Municipal Code to require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of expanded flood risk when properties subject to inundation or flooding are developed or redeveloped. SAFETY -14. Continue to participate in regional sediment management planning. SAFETY -15. Develop a long-term adaptive shoreline management program with a strong preference for beach replenishment over shoreline protective structures. INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, Tong -range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. • Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. • Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. • Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. INFRASTRUCTURE -9. Consult with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies, provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -12. Amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing hookups for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and major redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available based on adopted infrastructure plans. INFRASTRUCTURE -13. Continue to implement the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan and any implementing ordinances, including imposition of fines and other appropriate enforcement tools, for violations of water conservation rules. INFRASTRUCTURE -18. Continue to implement and incorporate revisions to the Clean Bay Restaurant Program and Grease Control Ordinance. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-30 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION INFRASTRUCTURE -19. Update program requirements to integrate the latest available Best Management Practices into the City Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, Low Impact Development (LID) Ordinance, and Green Streets Policy and regularly monitor results. INFRASTRUCTURE -20. Complete municipal demonstration projects showing residential and business property best practices in urban runoff, green streets, and LID. INFRASTRUCTURE -21. Continue to require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street BMPs that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. INFRASTRUCTURE -22. Continue to install educational signs or symbols on major public storm drains. Land Use and Planning LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations and Zoning Ordinance Zoning Districts and review development standards for non -conforming uses. LAND USE -2. Establish development standards within the Zoning Code to establish any new land use designations and modify existing development standards to articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area and the applicable density/intensity standards. Noise and Vibration SAFETY -29. Incorporate or request from Caltrans the inclusion of soundwalls, earthen berms, or other acoustical barriers as part of any roadway improvement project adjacent to a residential area, school, or other sensitive land use, where necessary to mitigate identified adverse significant noise impacts. SAFETY -30. Enforce and periodically evaluate truck and bus movements and routes to reduce impacts on sensitive areas, and promote coordination between the Police Department and the California Highway Patrol to enforce the State Motor Vehicle noise standards, to minimize or reduce noise impacts on residential and other sensitive land uses. SAFETY -31. Apply the Noise Element standards of compatibility described in PLAN Hermosa to new development proposals. Require the mitigation of extraordinary impacts through design features such as building orientation and acoustical barriers, to ensure compatibility. SAFETY -32. Require new multi -family development, single-family development, and condominium conversion projects to meet the California Noise Insulation Standards (Title 24 of the California Administrative Code) for interior and exterior noise levels. SAFETY -33. Acoustical analysis reports prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant shall be required for new sensitive land uses within noise impact areas (i.e., those areas where the existing or future CNEL exceeds 60 dB). SAFETY -34. Adopt and enforce a quantitative Noise and Vibration Ordinance to reduce excessive noise and vibration from site-specific sources such as construction activity, mechanical equipment, landscaping maintenance, loud music, truck traffic, loading and unloading activities, and other sources. SAFETY -35. Periodically review adopted noise standards, policies and regulations affecting noise in order to conform to changes in legislation and/or technologies. SAFETY -36. Comply with all state and federal OSHA noise standards, and all new equipment purchases shall comply with state and federal noise standards. Population and Housing LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations and Zoning Ordinance Zoning Districts and review development standards for non -conforming uses. Public Services LAND USE -5. Develop an inventory of underutilized or surplus property that may be appropriate for City or School District use or purchase to serve community education and recreational needs in the future. MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. MOBILITY -18. In conjunction with the Hermosa Beach City School District, the City will identify school access points, a proposed network, education and enforcement programs to provide a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Program. SUSTAINABILITY -7. Concurrent with new State Building Code adoptions, periodically update or amend Green Building Standards and conduct cost effectiveness studies to incorporate additional energy -efficiency and energy production features. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-31 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. SUSTAINABILITY -9. Maintain and periodically update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan sections of the Municipal Code to facilitate the use of new technologies or practices to conserve water. SUSTAINABILITY -10-. Create and adopt a Zero Waste Action Plan to maximize waste diversion from landfills. SUSTAINABILITY -11. Amend the Municipal Code to require that all commercial facilities make full-service recycling available for both customer use and business use, placing attractive and convenient bins in clear locations. SUSTAINABILITY -12. Consistent with State law, require that all multi -family residential uses provide an adequate number of attractive and convenient recycling bins to serve the number of units in the complex. SUSTAINABILITY -13. Require that all restaurants use compostable single -use items like takeout boxes. SUSTAINABILITY -14. Create an informational packet to be distributed to development project applicants on the use of recycled materials in new development and redevelopment projects. PARKS -1. Conduct needs assessments and evaluate recreational program offerings to ensure community needs and priorities are being met. Conduct regular updates to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. PARKS -2. Conduct periodic assessments of public facilities and maintain a list of priority replacement or new facilities projects. PARKS -3. Establish parks level of service and level of access standards to prioritize the development, upgrade, and renovation of parks and open space facilities. PARKS -4. Update City standards and fees related to the provision of parks and open space and sustainable funding source for providing high quality and well maintained facilities. PARKS -5. Where appropriate, construct parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities at street ends as they intersect with The Strand. PARKS -6. Continue, renew, and expand as needed, joint use agreements with the School District to allow community use of school fields and facilities. PARKS -7. Partner with the School District, community groups, and neighboring communities to identify and apply for • rant o. •ortunities to maintain, enhance, and ex.and •ark and recreational o. .ortunities. SAFETY -1. Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate local amendments. SAFETY -8. Support community safety and fire protection standards by establishing and applying the following development review requirements to be reviewed by HBFD and HBPD as appropriate: • New development and significant redevelopment projects shall coordinate with HBFD and Cal Water to provide and maintain adequate peak flow rates for firefighting. • New development, significant redevelopment, and public improvement projects shall ensure that building designs provide for adequate emergency access and that changes to the right-of-way do not impede access for emergency responder's apparatus or personnel. SAFETY -20. Establish and meet EMS and Fire response time standard of 7 minutes or less for 90% of incidents. SAFETY -21. Enhance and maintain Police Department staffing and facilities to meet established proactive time targets and clearance rates that exceed national averages. SAFETY -22. Continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. • Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. • Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. • Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-32 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION INFRASTRUCTURE -8. Improve the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying the following standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation: • New utilities must be located away from, or constructed in a manner compatible with, critical habitat areas, resources, and the shoreline. Physical and service constraints may not allow relocation away from or full compatibility with such areas and resources. INFRASTRUCTURE -9. Consult with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies, provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -12. Amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing hookups for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and major redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available based on adopted infrastructure plans. INFRASTRUCTURE -13. Continue to implement the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan and any implementing ordinances, including imposition of fines and other appropriate enforcement tools, for violations of water conservation rules. INFRASTRUCTURE -14. Ensure adequate and resilient sewer system capacity by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • New development or redevelopment projects involving construction of 8 -inch diameter or larger sewers that connect directly or indirectly to the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts' sewer system must prepare a sewer plan identifying that the existing sewer collection and treatment systems have available capacity to support such an increase, or provide for necessary system upgrades as part of the proposed project. INFRASTRUCTURE -16. Implement a financing plan, including use of the adopted sewer fee and loans, to ensure that resources are available for investment in annual rehabilitation projects to improve sanitary sewer pipes. INFRASTRUCTURE -17. Prepare an annual report for City Council documenting sewer system operations, actions to minimize overflows, incidents of overflows, and their impacts on receiving waters and public health and safety. INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. INFRASTRUCTURE -25. Survey all streetlights periodically for functionality and create a response protocol to respond to reports of streetlight outages within a 24-hour time period. Transportation GOVERNANCE -4. Continue to participate and partner with neighboring cities and regional organizations to implement projects and achieve goals that enhance the livability of Hermosa Beach. MOBILITY -1. Conduct an inventory and assessment of the City's sidewalk network to identify gaps, assess ADA accessibility, and prioritize improvements within the Capital Improvement Program. MOBILITY -2. Evaluate City right-of-ways and establish or update width and design standards for the construction or maintenance of streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and parkways. MOBILITY -3. Add definitions to the Municipal Code for street classifications, pedestrian facilities, bicycle and multi -use facilities, and transportation amenities. MOBILITY -4. Install new signage and instructions for accessing transit locations, local and regional bicycle routes, and parking meters/machines in the Coastal Zone where existing meters and machines have been shown to cause confusion for visitors. MOBILITY -5. Evaluate operations in local neighborhood streets with considerations to speed management strategies and traffic calming measures to increase safety for all people using the street. MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-33 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION MOBILITY -7. Work with commercial property owners to conduct an assessment for utilization of private parking supplies to supplement private and public parking needs and evaluate the potential for shared use agreements or MOUs. MOBILITY -8. Implement a contingency -based overflow parking plan to address seasonal and event- based parking demands. MOBILITY -9. Periodically conduct a city-wide parking study to analyze existing parking infrastructure in order to effectively address and manage current and future parking needs. MOBILITY -10. Set utilization and turnover rate goals and implement dynamically adjusted (demand -based) pricing strategies for public parking supplies. MOBILITY -11. Develop a smart technology street parking system in the Coastal Zone that includes but is not limited to the following features: • Variable -cost parking linked to demand; • Smart phone application identifying available metered spaces; and • Parking pay -by -card and pay -by -phone programs. MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. MOBILITY-13.Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. MOBILITY -14. Periodically review the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan to consider new or modified facilities and opportunities. MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. MOBILITY -16. Install additional bicycle parking facilities and wayfinding signage near the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. MOBILITY -17. Identify access improvements including, but not limited to, additional bus stop pullouts, bus parking locations, a seasonal shuttle system, and drop off/pick up areas, and prioritize these improvements in the five-year Capital Improvement Program. MOBILITY -18. In conjunction with the Hermosa Beach City School District, the City will identify school access points, a proposed network, education and enforcement programs to provide a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Program. MOBILITY -19. Develop congestion management performance measures and significant impact thresholds that are in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) requirements for roadway segments and intersections. SUSTAINABILITY -6. Implement the City's clean fleet policy through the purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. PARKS -8. Identify and evaluate the ADA compliance of parks, public facilities, and coastal public access points. PARKS -9. Install accessible walkways at parks and onto the beach while minimizing or avoiding negative effects on the aesthetics and ecology of the beach environment. PARKS -15. Develop and implement a uniform coastal access sign program to assist the public to locate and use coastal access points. Consider adding signs to walk streets that intersect with Hermosa Avenue. PARKS -16. Identify and remove any unauthorized/unpermitted structures, including signs and fences that inhibit visibility of public coastal access points. PARKS -19. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. INFRASTRUCTURE -6. Aggressively seek regional, state, and federal funds to leverage local money earmarked for projects listed in the CIP. INFRASTRUCTURE -7. Periodically review, and if needed revise, the development fee schedule to ensure it is adequate and reflective of proposed projects' impacts and required services. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-34 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION LOCAL COASTAL IMPLEMENTATION PLAN The proposed project covers the development of the City's Coastal Implementation Plan, which will provide development standards and regulations applicable in the Coastal Zone and will outline an administrative process for the issuance of coastal development permits. The Implementation Plan will include revisions to the City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code regarding permitting procedures, visitor -serving accommodations, special events, transportation demand management, coastal -dependent or coastal -related commercial uses, increased flood risk under anticipated sea level rise scenarios, and water quality. While the Coastal Implementation Plan will be approved at a later date, PLAN Hermosa includes a series of actions that detail the types of changes to be made to the Hermosa Beach municipal code. The implementation actions, identified in Table 3.0-9 (Actions Related to the Coastal Implementation Plan), provide sufficient detail to evaluate the potential physical impacts of the Coastal Implementation Plan in conjunction with PLAN Hermosa and are analyzed in this EIR. TABLE 3.0-9 ACTIONS RELATED TO THE COASTAL IMPLEMENTATION PLAN LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations and Zoning Ordinance Zoning Districts and review development standards for non -conforming uses. LAND USE -6. Establish within the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan a method to define and classify existing facilities and proposed projects providing overnight accommodations in the Coastal Zone as low, mid-range, or high cost, and apply this method to the Coastal Development Permit review process. The method should compare hotel room rates to the California statewide and regional averages, and should be updated as the City's fee schedule is updated. LAND USE -7. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan and Zoning Map to better accommodate coastal - dependent and coastal -related uses, as follows: • Establish definitions for coastal -dependent and coastal -related uses consistent with the California Coastal Act. For each, identify a list of priority uses that meets the definition. • Contract the C-2 (Downtown Commercial) zone district to match the Recreational Commercial land use designation. . • Modify the permitted use tables to allow specific coastal -dependent commercial uses in the C-1, C-2, and SPA 11 zone districts. • Modify the permitted use tables to allow coastal -dependent and coastal -related industrial uses in the M-1 zone district. LAND USE -8. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan to require any proposal for visitor -serving accommodations providing a majority of units at mid-range or high-cost levels to include public amenities such as plazas and spaces, restaurants, retail units, garden viewing areas, or other day -use features that may be used by the general public at no or relatively low cost. The quality and quantity of required amenities will be determined in the Coastal Development Permit review process. This requirement does not prohibit the proposed project from charging a user fee or resort fee for active amenities such as pool and spa access, recreation activities and equipment, or organized group activities on the property. LAND USE -9. Establish a visitor -serving accommodations fee program for new high-cost overnight accommodations. Fee revenues may provide funding to support specific projects that preserve (first priority) or establish (second priority) low- or mid -cost overnight visitor accommodations that improve access to the coast by providing visitors with an affordable place to stay overnight. Collaborating with the Coastal Commission, the City shall prepare and maintain a list of specific projects that fee revenues may be used to support. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-35 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION LAND USE -10. Require new visitor -serving accommodations within the Coastal Zone to maintain or improve public access to the coast by establishing and applying the following development review requirements in the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan: • Where a new hotel or motel development project would consist entirely of high-cost overnight accommodations, the development shall be required to provide mitigation as a condition of approval of a Coastal Development Permit. Such mitigation may include, but is not limited to, a mitigation payment consistent with the City's visitor - serving accommodations fee program. • If a hotel or motel project proposes a certain number or percentage of on-site low or mid-range cost units, such units shall remain available as low or mid-range cost units for the life of the project. LAND USE -11. Protect existing visitor -serving accommodations within the Coastal Zone by establishing and applying the following development review requirements in the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan: • Any development project that directly displaces existing low and mid-range cost accommodations in the Coastal Zone shall provide an equivalent number of rooms or accommodations at an equivalent nightly rate in the Coastal Zone, or elsewhere within the City of Hermosa Beach. • Replacement units must be subject to deed restrictions recorded against the title of the property so that they mitigate the displacement of lower- and mid-range cost accommodations for the life of the project. MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. MOBILITY -16. Install additional bicycle parking facilities and wayfinding signage near the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. PARKS -10. Develop and apply evaluation procedures for development projects that have the potential to substantially obstruct, substantially interfere, or substantially degrade Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Evaluation requirements, criteria, and provisions to allow exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards for projects with the potential to substantially obstruct, interfere or degrade Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas shall be incorporated into the review process for Precise Development Plans under Chapter 17.58 of the Zoning Ordinance as follows: • Projects located adjacent to and within the directional arrow of a Prominent Public Viewpoint, or within the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, as identified in PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, shall be evaluated to determine the potential to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from Prominent Public Viewpoints, or the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. • The evaluation will be based on quantitative criteria established and adopted by the City to evaluate potential impacts to visual quality, landform quality, community character, and view quality. • Projects that are determined to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from these public views shall be designed to reasonably minimize the substantial obstruction, interruption or detraction to views from the Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, which may include an exception to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards. The purpose of the exception would be to accommodate the bulk of the building in a manner that minimizes the impact to the public view while providing the property owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. • Landscaping material shall be used to screen uses that detract from the scenic quality of the coast from Prominent Public Viewpoints. PARKS -11. Protect public views of the Pacific Ocean by establishing and applying requirements for public works and infrastructure projects such as: • Locate new and relocated utilities underground when possible. Place and screen all other utilities to minimize public visibility. • Replace automobile -scale streetlights with shorter, pedestrian -scale streetlights where safe and appropriate. • Fences, walls, and landscaping shall not block views of scenic areas from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, parks, beaches, and other public viewing areas. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-36 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION • Hardscape elements such as retaining walls, cut-off walls, abutments, bridges, and culverts shall incorporate veneers, texturing, and colors that blend with the surrounding earth materials or landscape. PARKS -14. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan to prohibit use of the public beach for private commercial purposes without a Coastal Development Permit. PARKS -17. Protect public access to the coast by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • When projects may cause or contribute to adverse impacts to existing public access points, require a direct dedication or an easement to provide an alternative access point. Access ways shall be a sufficient size to accommodate two-way pedestrian passage and landscape buffer. • Implement building design and siting regulations to protect public access through setbacks and other property development regulations that control building placement. • New development and redevelopment projects shall protect public accessibility to walk streets and street ends that provide access to the shoreline, the beach, and The Strand. • New or improved beach access facilities shall accommodate persons with physical disabilities. PARKS -19. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. SAFETY -12. Amend the Municipal Code to establish a definition of "economic lifespan" for structural development as between 75 to 100 years, unless otherwise specified, and provide restrictions for specific development proposals. SAFETY -13. Amend the Municipal Code to require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of expanded flood risk when properties subject to inundation or flooding are developed or redeveloped. 3.0.5 PROJECT APPROVALS Project approval requires the following actions by the Hermosa Beach City Council: • Certification of this EIR • Adoption of a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program The EIR will be used in the consideration of subsequent actions, including: • Certification of the City's Coastal Local Implementation Plan • Zoning amendments • Subdivision maps • Community plans • Specific plans • Special planning districts • Special permits • Historic preservation actions • Planning actions • Infrastructure and public facilities siting and project approvals • ;Climate Action Plan • Other related actions City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0-37 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0.6 LEAD, RESPONSIBLE, AND TRUSTEE AGENCIES LEAD AGENCY In conformance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15050 and 15367, the City of Hermosa Beach is the lead agency for preparation of the PLAN Hermosa environmental analysis. The City, as the lead agency, is responsible for scoping the analysis, preparing the EIR, and responding to comments received on the Draft EIR. RESPONSIBLE AGENCIES Responsible agencies are other state and local public agencies that have authority to carry out or approve a project or that are required to approve a portion of the project for which a lead agency is preparing or has prepared an EIR or initial study/negative declaration. Because the proposed project is a General Plan, no agencies other than the City of Hermosa Beach have approval or permitting authority for the plan's adoption. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would involve many additional responsible agencies, depending on the specifics of the nature of subsequent projects. The following are some of the agencies that may be required to act as responsible agencies for subsequent projects: • California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) • California Coastal Commission • California Air Resources Board • California Department of Housing and Community Development • California Office of Historic Preservation • State Reclamation Board • California Department of Fish and Wildlife • State Lands Commission • California Department of Parks and Recreation • State Water Resources Control Board • South Coast Air Quality Management District • Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) for the County of Los Angeles • Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. TRUSTEE AGENCIES Trustee agencies under CEQA are public agencies with legal jurisdiction over natural resources that are held in trust for the people of California and that would be affected by a project, whether the agencies have authority to approve or implement the project. The California Coastal Commission is a trustee agency since it will approve the Local Coastal Program under its authority through the California Coastal Act. Subsequent development under PLAN Hermosa would not generally affect lands under the jurisdiction of a trustee agency; however, the trustee agencies with jurisdiction that could be affected by subsequent projects include the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the State Lands Commission, and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 3.0-38 • • 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.0.7 REFERENCES City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. Existing Conditions Report (also referred to as the Technical Background Report). OPR (Governor's Office of Planning and Research). 2003. General Plan Guidelines. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 3.0-39 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This page intentionally left blank. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 3.0-40 • • • 4.0 INTRODUCTION TO THE ANALYSIS 4.0 INTRODUCTION TO THE ANALYSIS 4.0.1 BASELINE EXISTING CONDITIONS ASSUMED IN THE ANALYSIS Each resource section in this Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (see Sections 4.1 through 4.14) summarizes the environmental setting specific to that resource topic. The environmental setting summary is based on information from the Technical Background Reports included in Appendix C. SCOPE', Sections 4.1 through 4.14 present the environmental impact analysis for the anticipated effects of implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Topics evaluated in these resource sections are described in Chapter 2.0, Introduction, and were identified in the Notice of Preparation (NOP) (Appendix B). 4.0.2 DOCUMENT STRUCTURE Each resource section presents an evaluation of a particular environmental topic and includes a summary of existing conditions (both physical and regulatory), potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures proposed to reduce significant environmental impacts (where necessary), and a determination of the level of significance after mitigation measures are implemented. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING This subsection provides summary information about the existing physical environment related to the resource topic. In accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15125, the discussion of the physical environment describes existing conditions in the planning area at the time the NOP was filed in August 2015. The basis for the Environmental Setting is information provided in the Technical Background Reports (Appendix C). REGULATORY SETTING This subsection summarizes federal, state, regional, and local plans, policies, laws, and regulations that apply to the resource. A full description of the Regulatory Setting for each resource section is included in the Technical Background Reports (Appendix C). THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The thresholds of significance that will serve as the basis for judging impact significance are identified in each resource section. Thresholds of significance used for the evaluation of impacts include those thresholds currently used by the City when reviewing individual projects. The City of Hermosa Beach considers these thresholds appropriate for evaluating the significance of impacts in the city that could occur with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. IMPACTS The impacts discussion describes potential consequences to each resource that would result from implementation of PLAN Hermosa associated with development potential and implementation of its policy provisions as compared to existing conditions. PLAN Hermosa does not entitle any development project or require that the City meet the buildout projections identified in Tables 3.0-3 and 3.0-4. Subsequent implementation and projects under PLAN Hermosa would be evaluated for consistency with the plan and in light of the environmental analysis provided in this EIR. The reader is referred to Chapter 2.0, Introduction, regarding the programmatic analysis provided in this EIR and its use for evaluation of subsequent projects. Potential environmental impacts have been classified in the following categories: • The term "no impact" is used when the environmental resource being discussed would not or may not be adversely affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. This impact level does not require mitigation. A less than significant impact would or may cause a minor but acceptable adverse change in the physical environment. This impact level does not require mitigation, even if feasible, under CEQA. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.0-1 4.0 INTRODUCTION TO THE ANALYSIS • A significant impact would or may have a substantial adverse effect on the physical environment, but could be reduced to a less than significant level with mitigation. Impacts may also be considered potentially significant if the analysis cannot definitively conclude that an impact would occur with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Under CEQA, mitigation measures must be provided, where feasible, to reduce the magnitude of significant or potentially significant impacts. • A significant and unavoidable impact would or may cause a substantial adverse effect on the environment, and no known feasible mitigation measures are available to reduce the impact to a less than significant level, or implementation of feasible mitigation measures would not reduce impacts to a less than significant level. Under CEQA, a project with significant and unavoidable impacts could proceed, but the City, as the lead agency, would be required to prepare a statement of overriding considerations in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, explaining why the City would proceed with the project despite potential for significant impacts. MITIGATION MEASURES AND RESIDUAL IMPACTS If impacts are considered significant and it is determined that implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would not reduce impacts to a less than significant level, mitigation measures are proposed to reduce or avoid these impacts. This section also describes an impact's level of significance following mitigation. Impacts are then defined as either significant but mitigable or as significant and unavoidable. Significant but mitigable impacts could be reduced to a less than significant level with mitigation. Significant and unavoidable impacts would remain significant either because feasible mitigation to reduce impacts is unavailable or because proposed mitigation measures would not reduce impacts to a less than significant level. 4.0.3 FORMAT OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES Throughout the discussion, impacts are identified numerically and sequentially. For example, impacts discussed in Section 4.1 are identified as 4.1-1, 4.1-2, and so on. Mitigation measures, where needed, are identified numerically to correspond to the number of the impact being reduced by the measure. For example, mitigation measure MM 4.1-1 would mitigate Impact 4.1-1. The format used to present the evaluation of impacts and mitigation measures is as follows: IMPACT 4.0-1 Impact Title. An impact summary heading appears before the impact discussion. The heading contains the impact number and title. The impact statement briefly summarizes the findings of the impact discussion below. The level of significance is included at the end of the summary heading. Levels of significance listed in this EIR (as described above) are no impact, less than significant, potentially significant, or significant. The impact discussion is contained in the paragraphs following the impact statement. The analysis compares implementation of PLAN Hermosa to existing conditions by: • identifying federal, state, regional, and local regulations that would reduce or mitigate the impact; • identifying PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation programs that would reduce or mitigate the impact; and • describing the potential impact with implementation of applicable regulations and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation programs. MITIGATION MEASURES After the impact discussion, if necessary, feasible mitigation measures are identified that would reduce the impact. If no mitigation is necessary or feasible, this conclusion is stated. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.0-2 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES 4.1.1 INTRODUCTION This section evaluates the potential environmental impacts related to aesthetics from implementation of PLAN Hermosa. As described in Chapter 2.0, Introduction, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) evaluates physical environmental impacts. As such, the analysis in this EIR focuses on the visual resources and characteristics of the public visual environment, that is, visual features, viewpoints, corridors, and other significant elements of the visual landscape which are accessible from public areas such as streets, beaches, parks, and plazas. The analysis provides an overview of public visual resources in the city, considers their relative significance to the visual environment, and identifies potential causes of adverse impacts to those resources that might arise from implementation of PLAN Hermosa, as well as the effectiveness of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions to avoid significant impacts. Where warranted, the EIR includes measures to mitigate potential impacts. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing aesthetic resource concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. 4.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Visual character is the overall impression of a landscape created by its unique combination of visual features such as landform, vegetation, water, and structures. Scenic quality is a measure of degree to which these elements blend to create a landscape that is visually pleasing to a viewer. As such, viewer sensitivity informs the degree to which changes in visual quality may be considered significant. Generally, the key factors in determining the potential impacts on visual character and quality are based on overall visual change/contrast, dominance, and view blockage. An adverse visual impact may occur when a project (1) perceptibly and substantially changes the existing physical features of the landscape that are characteristic of the region or locale; (2) introduces new features to the physical landscape that are perceptibly uncharacteristic of the region or localeorthat become visually dominant from common viewpoints; or (3) blocks or completely obscures scenic resources in the landscape. The degree of impact depends on how noticeable the adverse change might be to sensitive viewer groups. VISUAL CHARACTER OF THE REGION Hermosa Beach's visual character and visual resources reflect the community's regional setting. The city is located along the southern end of Santa Monica Bay. As such, it occupies a visible edge between the extensive urban landscape of the South Bay subregion and the entire Los Angeles Basin, and its boundary with the Pacific Ocean. This edge defines the dominant visual character of Hermosa Beach's environment. The city's position in the South Bay provides panoramic views of regionally significant visual features: Santa Monica Bay itself (the ocean and the bay's coastline), the Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south, and the more distant Santa Monica Mountains across the bay to the north. From the more inland and higher elevations of the city (in the Hermosa Hills and Eastside neighborhoods east of Pacific Coast Highway), the Los Angeles Basin and San Gabriel Mountains are visible. These easterly views, although less predominant than those along the coast, have regional significance and are among the valued visual resources in the community. Public views to these vistas, including viewpoints and view corridors, are significant visual resources and are discussed in greater detail below. In addition to these vistas, there is the edge itself, ermosa's beach, which gives the city uninterrupted open space and visual expansiveness City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-1 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES along its entire western boundary. The beach, with its unobstructed vistas, is the destination of and visual reward for Hermosa Beach visitors. VISUAL CHARACTER OF THE CITY Urban land uses that currently contribute to the visual character of the city's built environment are primarily residential uses, which are distributed throughout the city, and commercial uses that are mostly located along Pacific Coast Highway, Aviation Boulevard, and Pier Avenue. Architecture styles of development in the city vary and most buildings are low in stature, reflecting height restrictions that limit building heights to 25 to 35 feet, depending on zoning and location. The city's prominent open space areas include the beach, Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, and park and school sites such as South Park, Clark Stadium, Hermosa View School, Valley View School, and Valley Park. There are 19 parks in the city, including many small parkettes. The prevailing low -profile beach atmosphere and the availability of walking streets and small- scale east -west streets along the oceanfront provide a visual transparency experienced from major public thoroughfares such as Hermosa Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, and Monterey Boulevard. Visual transparency refers to the degree to which people can see or perceive what lies beyond the edge of a street or public space. More specifically it refers to the degree to which people can see or perceive human activity beyond the edge of a street or other public spaces (Ewing 2013). This visual permeability in the community's local urban landscape softens the urban/ocean edge and contributes to the beach town character of the community. While Hermosa Beach is well known for its sweeping views of natural resources, the area also includes numerous structures and buildings that are considered scenic resources. Some of the city's historic landmark structures are regionally distinctive, such as the Bijou Theatre, the Bank of America Building, and the Community Center. Historic resources in Hermosa Beach are discussed in greater detail in Section 4.4 Cultural Resources, of this EIR. Aside from individual structures, scenic resources may also include a collection of buildings that are architecturally distinctive or potentially historic, well -manicured streetscapes such as Pier Avenue, and commercial corridors or districts. The areas identified as playing a key role in defining the city's visual character are described below. Downtown District The Downtown District is located in an area along Pier Avenue from Valley Drive to The Strand and on Hermosa Avenue. The district is predominantly characterized by commercial and visitor -serving uses, with a small amount of residential development. Street -oriented storefronts, trees and landscaped spaces, varying architectural styles, and streetscape improvements contribute to the visual character of this area. In general, buildings are one to two stories tall and are located along the sidewalk with stepbacks on the upper levels. The predominant architectural style is that of a California beach town, with no officially designated styles. Most buildings are painted in light colors to reflect the sun. The district's landscaping comprises palm trees and low native scrubs in street medians. Ornate streetlights in an old-fashioned style line the major corridors, while on -street parking (both parallel and angled) lines several streets, including Pier Avenue. Landscaping, outdoor eating spaces, streetscape features add to the pedestrian - oriented character of Pier Plaza in the Downtown District and PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-2 August 2017 • • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES The Strand This oceanfront boardwalk traverses the length of the city from Herondo Street to 35th Street. Sandy beaches and the shoreline dominate the scenic views to the west of the boardwalk, while the area east of The Strand is characterized by one-, two-, and three-story residences as well as the Downtown District. These residences are designed and oriented to take advantage of the sweeping ocean views. There is minimal landscaping along The Strand, and no predominant architectural style or color. Most notable views are of the Pacific Ocean, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and the Santa Monica Mountains. Hermosa Valley Greenbelt The original Santa Fe Railway right-of-way was converted to a recreational use trail in the 1980s (Hermosa Beach Historical Society 2009). Today, this trail is known as the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt. It is one of the community's most highly used public spaces, second only to the beach. The landscaped trail extends the length of the city between Ardmore Avenue and Valley Drive. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Pacific Coast Highway traverses the city in a north -south direction and is located east (inland) of the Pacific Ocean and the Downtown District. In Hermosa Beach, PCH offers views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula but does not provide any views of the Pacific Ocean except via small view corridors at intersections. The highway is a major arterial with two to three lanes of traffic in each direction, serving mainly as a transportation corridor for through traffic. Land use along Pacific Coast Highway includes both commercial and residential, as well as some public facilities. Most buildings are one to three stories tall. The overall visual aspect of PCH along this stretch is of an urbanized and highly trafficked corridor. North -facing view from The Strand. Lush landscaping and the jogging trail are the primary visual characteristics of the Greenbelt. Residential and Commercial Areas Hermosa Beach consists of many distinct neighborhoods and commercial areas. PLAN Hermosa identifies nine residential neighborhoods with more or Tess distinct characteristics and five commercial corridors or districts (see Figure 4.1-1, Character Areas). The predominant land use in Hermosa Beach is residential, which accounts for approximately 67 percent of the city's total land area. The residential areas have no predominant architectural style, as many homes have been rebuilt over time. Most homes have small front yards, if any, and landscaping varies from grassy, lawns to drought -tolerant xeriscapes. The architectural diversity of Hermosa Beach's distinct neighborhoods contributes to the visual character of the community, which can be summarized as low-key, predominantly residential and diverse. The city's public spaces—its streets and streetscapes, parks, plazas, and public buildings—create much of its urban form. Aside from parks and the beach, streets and sidewalks make up a large portion of the public realm in Hermosa Beach. In character and appearance, the streetscape defines the experience for street users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. Streetscape amenities on Pier Avenue and the pedestrian mall of lower Pier Avenue are prominent features, along (with other visually iconic structures and monuments such as the Hermosa Pier and the Bijou Theatre that also contribute to the city's visual character. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-3 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.1-1 CHARACTER AREAS Aries yBlvd 1410 hermosa beach character areas cnorth end 111 hermosa view 0 _ ® walk street o> sand section volley ;ter, herondo O greenbelt rM. hermosa hills eastside VI b.downtown „ci • IIII civic center Elcypress in ■aviation :o vE El pacific coast highway (o i _� city limits oL coastal zone 400' 800' 0” 1" 2" PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES SCENIC VISTAS/VIEW CORRIDORS A scenic vista is a high quality view from which the public can experience one or more significant visual features, a landscape, or an aesthetically pleasing viewshed. Scenic vistas are often available from elevated vantage points that offer panoramic or expansive views. Hermosa Beach does not have officially designated scenic vistas. Nonetheless, prominent public viewpoints and view corridors in the city provide long-range views of important scenic features: Santa Monica Bay, the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains. Pacific Ocean Public views of the Pacific Ocean from within the city can be described according to three general categories: (1) uninterrupted panoramic views; (2) major vistas or viewpoints; and (3) intermittent views. Uninterrupted public views of the ocean are available along the entire length of The Strand, from the beach, and from Hermosa Pier. These view locations are significant because of the high quality of the views (they are panoramic and include all of the major visually significant coastal features—Santa Monica Bay, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and the Santa Monica Mountains) and they are also locations of high public use. Major vistas of the ocean are also available from several public streets where the topography and surrounding structures do not obstruct the line of sight. In some cases, these viewpoints are located at relatively high elevations in the eastern half of the city; for example, the intersection of Prospect Avenue and 6th Street. Public views of the . Pacific Ocean from north -south -trending streets in the city are generally more limited because existing development along the street frontage obstructs views. However, the ocean is visible at key points along major corridors including Pacific Coast Highway at Longfellow Avenue and along Aviation Boulevard at key intersections. From within the coastal half of the city, major public views of the ocean exist along Pier Avenue and on several east - west -trending streets such as 8th, 14th, 22nd, and 27th streets. For a typical viewer who is 5 to 6 feet in height, standing within 50 feet of a building that is 20 to 35 feet in height, the panoramic views that would qualify as scenic vistas or prominent viewpoints could be obstructed by the existing buildings. Nevertheless, as mentioned previously, the abundant small east -west streets, particularly between The Strand and Loma Drive/Morningside Drive, along most of the coastal length of the city offer a series of intermittent views to the ocean as one travels parallel to the coast on north -south -trending streets (Hermosa Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, and Monterey Boulevard). These east -west streets cumulatively provide visual transparency from the public streets to the ocean, an effect that contributes to the visual character of Hermosa Beach. Palos Verdes Peninsula and Santa Monica Mountains Public views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the Santa Monica Mountains are unobstructed from The Strand, the beach, and the pier. Views of the Santa Monica Mountains are available from the extreme northwest corner of the city within the public right-of-way in the vicinity of Hermosa Avenue and 35th Street. Views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula are available along Pacific Coast Highway (framed by urban development on both sides of the corridor), on Aviation Boulevard, and from Prospect Avenue near 6th Street. Other locations offer intermittent views of the Peninsula (for example, from several points along Pier Avenue), but the most significant of these might be the view from Cypress Avenue because of the unique character and mix of activities and land use at this lower elevation in the city. Views of both the Peninsula and the Santa Monica Mountains serve as backgrounds from many minor viewpoints in the city. Most of these views are fragmented by existing urban development. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-5 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Los Angeles Basin and San Gabriel Mountains Public views of the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains generally are from higher elevations in the eastern part of the city along east -west -trending streets. The best views are from Aviation Boulevard, the southern end of Prospect Avenue looking east, and 5th Street looking northeast (though framed by existing development along the roadway). The Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains serve as backgrounds for the city. Most views of these features are fragmented by existing urban development. PROMINENT PUBLIC VIEWS Figure 4.1-2, Prominent Public Viewpoints, identifies significant public viewpoints from which these features can be viewed. The viewpoints identified in Figure 4.1-2 are considered prominent based on four key criteria established by the City. 1) The view includes one or more of the five regionally significant features identified above. 2) The view is readily accessible to the public. 3) The view is panoramic, expansive, or a relatively unobstructed, high quality view. 4) The view contributes importantly to the visual environment of Hermosa Beach. These criteria, and the viewpoints identified in Figure 4.1-2, are considered in the impact assessment in this section. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-6 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.1-2 PROMINENT PUBLIC VIEWPOINTS hermosa beach public view locations prominent public viewpoint uninterrupted viewing areas City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.1-7 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES SHADE OR SHADOW Prolonged periods of shade and shadow during the middle of the day can adversely affect parks and other public gathering areas. Shade and shadow effects are limited in Hermosa Beach because of building height limits enforced by the City. Since most buildings in the planning area are less than 35 feet tall, the most common sources of prolonged shadows are natural topographic features and on a smaller scale, trees. Examples include shadows from the ridgeline along Loma Drive in the Valley Drive or Greenbelt areas or from landscape features and trees. LIGHT AND GLARE Artificial lighting can negatively affect the visual character of land uses, especially at night. Light pollution from urban sources can also adversely affect views of the night sky. Although the night sky above the Los Angeles Basin is already impacted by the region's expansive urban development, a few relatively unpolluted locales still exist. The western portion of the Santa Monica Mountains is a known dark sky viewing location that can be said to have regional significance because of its accessibility to the Los Angeles Basin and the relative rarity of dark sky viewing locations in the region. Significant sources of light pollution in the greater Los Angeles Basin that impact the night sky have the potential to contribute to the cumulative degradation of night sky viewing. Hermosa Beach contains various sources of light and glare that are typical of urban communities, such as streetlights along roadways and lights in parking lots, illuminated signs, lighted recreation facilities, landscape lighting, and light emitted from the interiors of residential and nonresidential buildings. Noncommercial sources of night lighting in Hermosa Beach include lighted sports fields, notably Clark Field, which is lit most evenings of the year. The greatest source of daytime glare in Hermosa Beach is specular reflection from the Pacific Ocean. This is a natural source, of course, and a dominant element of the Southern California coastal environment. On clear days, sunlight and its attendant glare saturates the sky unobstructed by intervening buildings or structures above 35 feet in height. This natural condition reflects the city's position on the urban edge with the Pacific Ocean. If adverse sources of daytime glare exist, they are localized and small-scale, and most likely result from singular instances of highly reflective surfaces (e.g., windows and parked vehicles) present in the man- made environment. Because most buildings in the city are at or below 35 feet in height, glare effects from structures are limited to the immediate vicinity of the individual buildings. SENSITIVE VIEWER GROUPS Potentially impacted viewers can be categorized into groups of shared sensitivity to changes in the existing scenic quality of a landscape. Viewer sensitivity (or public concern) for the scenic quality of a landscape or particular view is informed by the activity a user is engaged in at the time something is visible. For example, commuting in heavy traffic can distract many viewers from aspects of the visual environment, while activities such as pleasure driving can encourage viewers to look at view components more closely and for a longer period of time. Viewer sensitivity considerations include the number of viewers, duration of exposure, and degree of public interest in a particular view. In the city, highly sensitive viewers are generally assumed to include residents, tourists, and recreationists traveling through Hermosa Beach. Less sensitive viewer groups are assumed to include commuters and viewers from commercial or industrial -type land uses. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-8 • • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Residents are considered to be the most sensitive viewer groups because of the duration of exposure and their degree of interest in the view. Their exposure is considered long term and their interests in the view are considered to relate to both the visual quality and the character of the area. Tourists also have high sensitivity, in that they generally visit the city to observe the views as well as to enjoy the city's recreational opportunities. Commuters and viewers from commercial or industrial -type land uses are considered less sensitive viewer groups because of the short duration of the view and their trip purposes. Such users usually pay less attention to visual quality and character and are exposed for short times to vistas and other visual characteristics. 4.1.3 REGULATORY SETTING Several relevant state and local laws, regulations, and policies relate to visual resources. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing visual impacts. The regulatory framework for aesthetics is fully discussed in detail in Appendix C-2. Key regulations applicable either directly or indirectly to visual resources are presented below. FEDERAL No federal plans, policies, regulations, or laws related to visual resources apply to the planning area. STATE • Caltrans Scenic Highway Program: The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Scenic Highway Program protects and enhances the natural scenic beauty of the state's highways and corridors through special conservation treatment. There are no officially designated scenic highways within the city boundaries (Caltrans 2011). • California Coastal Act of 1976: The California Coastal Act of 1976 and the California Coastal Commission, the state's landmark coastal protection law and planning agency, consider scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas as a protected resource of public importance: The scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas shall be considered and protected as a resource of public importance. Permitted development shall be sited and designed to protect views to and along the ocean and scenic coastal areas, to minimize the alteration of natural land forms, to be visually compatible with the character of surrounding areas, and, where feasible, to restore and enhance visual quality in visually degraded areas. New development in highly scenic areas such as those designated in the California Coastline Preservation and Recreation Plan prepared by the Department of Parks and Recreation and by local government shall be subordinate to the character of its setting. (California Coastal Act Section 30251). See Section 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this EIR for a discussion of PLAN Hermosa and consistency with the California Coastal Act. REGIONAL AND LOCAL • City of Hermosa Beach 1981 Local Coastal Program: The Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) component addresses aesthetic considerations of design and development in the Coastal Zone. CLUP goals and objectives associated with coastal recreational access and development and design include preserving and enhancing coastal overviews and key view point areas. Visual policies and programs in the Coastal Development and Design portion of the CLUP include the following: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-9 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES • Height restrictions for residential and commercial uses (which are now contained in the City's Zoning Ordinance) to protect overview and viewshed qualities. • Condominium project design consistent with the city's character. • Implementation of a design review process. • Establishment of a Downtown Plan. • Landscaping provisions for The Strand. The Local Implementation Plan has not yet been certified; therefore, the Coastal Commission retains authority to review and issue coastal development permits for development in the Coastal Zone. PLAN Hermosa is intended to result in an adopted and certified LCP. • City of Hermosa 1979 General Plan: The current General Plan includes the following policies and programs (summarized) that address visual resources: Conservation Element Policy 6 — No additional structures should be placed on the beach (with the exception of restrooms). Urban Design Element Policy 1 — Maintain the present scale of the city. • Program 2 — Development of visual design standards. • Program 3 — Eliminate garish or degrading signs. • Program 4 — Restore and maintain residential uses in older sections of city. • City of Hermosa Beach Zoning Ordinance: The City's Zoning Ordinance (Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Title 17) addresses aesthetic considerations of development. While the Zoning Ordinance sets development standards for parking, building heights (maximum 35 feet), setbacks, density, lot coverage, open space requirements, and signs which collectively contribute to the visual character of the community, the Municipal Code does not include an explicit viewshed protection ordinance related to the protection of private views. In addition, the Zoning Ordinance includes the following requirements: • Requirements that condominium project design be in harmony and not a major disruption to established character of the neighborhood (Section 17.22.130). • Commercial lighting standards to avoid lighting impacts (Section 17.26.050). • Screening of outdoor storage and activities for commercial uses (Section 17.26.050) . • Landscaping and setback buffer standards for commercial projects that adjoin residential areas (Section 17.28.030). • Discretionary review and approval of precise development plans for development (except for single family and renovations less than 1,500 square in size) (Chapter 17.58). 4.1.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For purposes of this EIR, impacts on visual resources are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista. 2) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway. 3) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the city or its surroundings. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-10 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES 4) Create new shade or shadow in a manner that substantially affects outdoor recreation facilities or other public gathering areas. 5) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area. ANALYSIS APPROACH The discussion below addresses the potential for future changes to the public visual environment to be significant and adverse, based on the preceding assessment of prominent visual resources, current (baseline) conditions and the significance thresholds identified above. The impact assessment that follows addresses each of the five significant impact thresholds in turn and considers potential impacts of the plan in its entirety, including its proposed new policies as well as the current General Plan policies and zoning regulations that would be carried forward as part of PLAN Hermosa. The impact assessment also considers standard conditions of approval and current regulations of other agencies that would be enforced during the implementation of PLAN Hermosa and that would reduce or avoid visual impacts. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address visual resources either directly or indirectly. Policies Land Use + Design Element • 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. • 1.6 Scale and context. Consider the compatibility of new development within its urban context to avoid abrupt changes in scale and massing. • 1.8 Respond to unique characteristics. Enhance the unique character and identity of the city's neighborhoods, districts, and corridors through land use and design decisions. Allow policies and programs to be focused on each unique character area of the city. • 2.5 Neighborhood preservation. Preserve and enhance the quality of residential neighborhoods by avoiding or abating the intrusion of disruptive, nonconforming buildings and uses. • 2.7 Context -sensitive design. Wherever feasible, orient residential buildings to address streets, public spaces, or shared private spaces and consider the physical characteristics of its site, surrounding land uses, and available public infrastructure. • 2.8 Neighborhood transitions. Encourage that new development provide appropriate transitions in scale, building type and density between different land use designations. • 5.1 Scale and massing. Consider the scale of new development within its urban context to avoid abrupt changes in scale and massing. • 5.3 Locally appropriate materials. Require architectural designs, building materials and landscape design to respect and relate to the local climate, topography, history, and building practices. • 5.6 Eclectic and diverse architecture. Seek to maintain and enhance neighborhood character through eclectic and diverse architectural styles. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-11 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES • 10.8 Incentives and technical assistance. Provide expert technical assistance to owners of potentially eligible and designated historic properties with tools and incentives to maintain historic resources. Parks + Open Space Element • 5.1 Identify public coastal views. Identify the Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas from which coastal scenic vistas can be observed. • 5.2 Visual character. Accommodate economic growth and new buildings in a way that preserves the visual character of the community. • 5.3 Building site and design. Massing, height, and orientation of new development adjacent' to Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas shall be evaluated and, to the extent reasonable, new development will be sited and designed to minimize additional obstructions of public coastal views to and along the ocean and scenic areas. • 5.4 Exceptions to protect views. Consider exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards to minimize additional obstructions to the Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas while providing projects the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. • 5.5 Landscape design. Consider public access to public views and vistas, and encourage landscape design that protects or enhances those views. • 5.6 Signage and infrastructure. Encourage signage, infrastructure, and utilities that do not block or detract from views of scenic vistas. • 5.7 Light pollution. Preserve skyward nighttime views and lessen glare by minimizing lighting levels along the shoreline. • 7.4 Beach structures. Restrict buildings and structures on the beach with regard to size and number consistent with current access, safety, and beach use. • 7.6 Children's recreational equipment. Limit children's recreational equipment to slides, swings, and climbing apparatus of a non-obstructive design. Locate near major or primary entrances to the beach, at least 100 feet from the Strand wall. Infrastructure Element • 1.7 Aesthetic and urban form. Require infrastructure and infrastructure improvements that are aesthetically pleasing and consistent with the scenic character of the surrounding area. Implementation Actions Land Use + Design Element • LAND USE -3. Include provisions within the Zoning Code to avoid significant shadow impacts from new structures onto public recreational areas, parks or other public gathering places consistent with industry standards for evaluating shade and shadow impacts. Parks + Open Space Element • PARKS -10. Develop and apply evaluation procedures for development projects that have the potential to substantially obstruct, substantially interfere, or substantially degrade Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Evaluation requirements, criteria, and provisions to allow exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards for projects with the potential to substantially obstruct, interfere or degrade Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-12 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Viewing Areas shall be incorporated into the review process for Precise Development Plans under Chapter 17.58 of the Zoning Ordinance as follows: Projects located adjacent to and within the directional arrow of a Prominent Public Viewpoint, or within the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, as identified in PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, shall be evaluated to determine the potential to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from Prominent Public Viewpoints, or the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. - The evaluation will be based on quantitative criteria established and adopted by the City to evaluate potential impacts to visual quality, landform quality, community character, and view quality. - Projects that are determined to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from these public views shall be designed to reasonably minimize the substantial obstruction, interruption or detraction to views from the Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, which may include an exception to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards. The purpose of the exception would be to accommodate the bulk of the building in a manner that minimizes the impact to the public view while providing the property owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. Landscaping material shall be used to screen uses that detract from the scenic quality of the coast from Prominent Public Viewpoints. • PARKS -11. Protect public views of the Pacific Ocean by establishing and applying requirements for public works and infrastructure projects such as: - Locate new and relocated utilities underground when possible. Place and screen all other utilities to minimize public visibility. - Replace automobile -scale streetlights with shorter, pedestrian -scale streetlights where safe and appropriate. Fences, walls, and landscaping shall not block views of scenic areas from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, parks, beaches, and other public viewing areas. - Hardscape elements such as retaining walls, cut-off walls, abutments, bridges, and culverts shall incorporate veneers, texturing, and colors that blend with the surrounding earth materials or landscape. • PARKS -12. Minimize nighttime light pollution by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: - Exterior lighting (except traffic lights, navigational lights, and other similar safety lighting) shall be minimized, restricted to low intensity fixtures, shielded (full cutoff), and downcast (emitting no light above the horizontal plane of the fixture) concealed to the maximum feasible extent so that no light source is directly visible from public viewing areas, there is no glare or spill beyond the property lines and the lamp bulb is not directly visible from within any residential unit. • PARKS -13. Minimize the negative aesthetic impacts of signs by establishing or revising and applying the following design requirements: - Enforce appropriate limits on height, size, design, and materials of signs. - Prohibit signs other than traffic or public safety signs that would obstruct views to the ocean, beach, parks, or other scenic areas. - Enforce sign maintenance controls. - Continue restrictions on the use of lights and moving parts in signs, billboards, and rooftop signs. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-13 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.1-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Adverse Effects on Scenic Vistas and Viewsheds? Future actions under PLAN Hermosa have the potential to encroach on views from prominent public viewpoints. Future actions also have the potential to degrade the visual quality of scenic vistas, through the introduction of incongruous features to the viewshed. However, PLAN Hermosa also includes policies and implementation actions that direct future discretionary projects to identify, evaluate, and to the extent reasonable avoid the substantial obstruction, interference or degradation of scenic vistas through the offering of exceptions to development standards that will allow for siting the project in a manner that avoids impacting scenic vistas. This impact would be less than significant because development under PLAN Hermosa would comply with the evaluation and design process to avoid adverse effects on scenic vistas.. As indicated in Figure 4.1-1, multiple public view corridors in the city provide views of the Pacific Ocean, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains. While PLAN Hermosa does not specifically propose or entitle any development project or public project, it would provide for and apply to such projects subsequent to the adoption of the plan. Subsequent projects under PLAN Hermosa could result in the alteration of these view corridors by partially blocking the public view and/or introducing a new feature that dominates the view. Examples include building features such as awnings, facades, walls, and similar items. PLAN Hermosa outlines the community's vision for proposed development in each of the city's distinctive zones and identifies policies and actions to reduce impacts to these public view corridors. For example, implementation actions PARKS -10 and 11 require discretionary design review for new development and public works projects based on specific criteria to be established in the Zoning Ordinance to evaluate scenic vistas. As such, utilities would be located underground when possible, and fences and walls would not block views from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, or other public viewing areas. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.1 states the intent to identify scenic vistas. Public vistas would also be protected through proposed implementation actions, as listed above. In addition, the City's Zoning Ordinance includes height restrictions that prohibit buildings from exceeding 35 feet, require screening of commercial outdoor storage and activities from public views (Section 17.26.050), and require development projects to be reviewed through the City's precise development plan process (Chapter 17.58). The policies and actions as revised related to public views are designed to provide more specificity on the expectation and process for identifying, evaluating, and addressing potential impacts to scenic vistas in a manner that is consistent with the Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. The greater level of specificity contained within the policies and implementation actions further helps to appropriately guide City staff and decision makers in the future to objectively and consistently and reasonably evaluate and mitigate impacts to scenic vistas, and provide the opportunity for setback, open space, landscaping or other relief to properties that may otherwise substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from a scenic vista. This allows the property owner to minimize the impact to a public view while providing the owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity (similar to a variance). The specific exception to be applied to each project will be evaluated on a project level to determine its appropriateness and compatibility with the neighborhood and the list of available exceptions will be specified in the zoning ordinance. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-14 • • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Through the public hearing process, the community and commissioners have had an opportunity to synthesize PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, which shows the proposed Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Based on community and commissioner input, the Figure has been revised to remove two sites that do not meet the criteria for Prominent Public Views. The two views deleted include 8th Street at Loma Drive and El Oeste Drive. The 8th/Loma location can be deleted because the view is already surrounded by properties that have been developed close to or at the maximum extent allowed and therefore, future development during the life of the plan will not further impact the view beyond the existing development. The El Oeste viewpoint can be deleted because, while it presents a highly intact uninterrupted view, it does not meet the prominent viewpoint criteria of having a large number of public viewers. This location is at the end of a dead end residential street where the general public does not typically access, pass or congregate. Therefore, it would be unlikely to have a large number of public viewers. The language incorporated into the policies and actions has been changed such that properties adjacent to, rather than within 50 feet of, the Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas will be required to evaluate and reasonably mitigate any substantial impact to a public view. Additionally, portions of Implementation Action PARKS -12 have been removed because of their specificity to appropriate colors and textures and the portions of the actions pertaining to public works projects have been incorporated into PARKS - 11. To specify appropriate colors or textures to private property owners would go against a long- standing community policy against judging or dictating design. These language changes are also appropriate because the 50 foot requirement, as well as the requirements for specific screening methods or use of certain materials may not be appropriate in all situations and do not allow for any site specific flexibility. Additionally, the language was too precise for policy language and implementation actions (and for the originally proposed mitigation measure). These types of details are better worked out through the implementation process and development of the ordinance. In some cases 50 feet may be too far, and in others it may not be far enough. There are site specific conditions like width of the road, setback requirements, and building height limits (vary from 25-35 feet) that may require variation in the distance needed to analyze impacts to views. It is further noted that the changes to the policies and implementation actions related to public views achieve the same purpose as proposed Mitigation Measure MM 4.1-1, that the potential impact to scenic vistas is adequately mitigated to a level that is less than significant, and that no new significant impacts to Aesthetics have been identified based on these changes. Mitigation Measures None Required. IMPACT 4.1-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Have Adverse Effects on Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway? There are no designated state scenic highways in or near Hermosa Beach. However, PLAN Hermosa directs the City to beautify and enhance Pacific Coast Highway and would guide development and reuse projects in a manner that is consistent with the existing visual character of Pacific Coast Highway. Therefore PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact. Scenic resources can include man-made or natural features, viewpoints, or viewsheds. They can include visually significant features such as rocks, trees, and historic buildings, particularly if those features are within a state scenic highway. There are no designated state scenic highways in or near Hermosa Beach. In its current state, Pacific Coast Highway's only significance as a scenic resource is its public views to the Pacific Ocean and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. As noted in the City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-15 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES discussion above, significant public vistas from Pacific Coast Highway would be protected through proposed Policy 5.1 and implementation actions PARKS -10 and 11. Potential impacts on other scenic vistas are also addressed in the discussion above. Impacts to other scenic resources (such as iconic structures and visual permeability to the ocean) are addressed in the discussion of Impact 4.1-3 below. Impacts to historic resources (which may contribute significantly to the visual character of the community) are addressed in Section 4.4, Cultural Resources, of the EIR. With impacts on scenic vistas addressed by Impact 4.1-1 and on cultural resources addressed in Section 4.4, PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact on scenic resources within a state scenic highway. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.1-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Substantially Degrade the Existing Visual Character or Quality of the Site and Its Surroundings? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not adversely alter the existing land use pattern or visual character of the city. This would be a less than significant impact. Hermosa Beach identifies itself as a small beach town, where visual character is defined by its coastal location, diverse residential neighborhoods, and public open spaces, including lower Pier Avenue, the beach, the pier, and The Strand. PLAN Hermosa outlines future visions for the city's distinctive areas, which include neighborhoods, districts, and corridors, as outlined in Table 4.1-1 (City of Hermosa Beach Existing Visual Character and Future Vision). TABLE 4.1-1 CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH EXISTING VISUAL CHARACTER AND FUTURE VISION Existing Visual Character Future Vision Neighborhoods North End Neighborhood The North End is a well-defined neighborhood with a range of low- and medium -density residential development with centralized neighborhood commercial goods and services. The intent is to preserve building form and scale and maintain neighborhood connectivity and access to nearby commercial services. Buildings should orient toward the walk streets to create a similar -scale and orientation of buildings for compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. The street frontages from driveways and curb cuts should be preserved to maintain the walkable qualities offered by the compact grid network of this neighborhood. Hermosa View Neighborhood This neighborhood is perched high on a hill, with a dramatic rise in slope moving north from Gould Avenue, creating a separate, distinct single-family residential enclave. The intent is to preserve building form, orientation, and scale and to retain the unique streetscape with wide parkways and uninterrupted sidewalks. The low-density residential development pattern of this neighborhood should be maintained through the retention of larger lot sizes, building orientation toward the street, and wider setbacks that provide room for parkways and sidewalks. Walk Street Neighborhood The Walk Street neighborhood currently provides a range of beachside residential development and neighborhood commercial services within a linear street network. The walk streets that provide beach access from Hermosa Avenue out to The Strand are a feature unique The intent is to maintain the high quality pedestrian connections through the walk streets and retain the form, scale, and orientation of buildings in this area by designing buildings that take advantage of the opportunities for outdoor living. PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-16 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Existing Visual Character Future Vision to this beachfront residential area. Sand Section Neighborhood Today, the Sand Section neighborhood accommodates a range of residential development types, with neighborhood commercial services. The abundance of small, pedestrian -friendly blocks gives this area its charm and intimate sense of community. The intent is to enhance multimodal connectivity and access while preserving the building form, scale, and orientation in this neighborhood. Through new multimodal connections, convenient access to community parks and the Greenbelt is provided and helps to maintain the compact urban format and highly connected street network of this neighborhood. Valley Neighborhood The Valley neighborhood includes low-density, single- family homes between key community facilities. The average density for this area is roughly 10 dwelling units per acre, with parcel sizes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet. The Valley Greenbelt runs the length of this area, and Valley School and Valley Park are beneficial amenities to residents in this neighborhood. The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares that enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single - family development pattern of this area. Buildings should retain larger setbacks and lower scale and massing, and new sidewalks should be added to contribute to a complete pedestrian network. Herondo Neighborhood The Herondo neighborhood currently accommodates the city's higher -density and larger -format residential development. Multiple connections to nearby neighborhoods, community parks, and the Greenbelt are provided throughout the neighborhood. The intent is to preserve the scale and building form of this neighborhood and maintain connections and access to nearby amenities. To ensure a diverse range of housing formats and building types, this area will be protected for larger -format apartment complexes and townhouses. Permeability through the large apartment blocks should continue to be improved, allowing residents to walk to the Greenbelt and the beach. Greenbelt Neighborhood The Greenbelt neighborhood offers a range of small- scale residential development types and provides nearby access to commercial services along PCH. Single-family homes and duplexes currently coexist side by side. The intent is to maintain the building scale and form of this neighborhood, while enhancing access to local neighborhood -serving commercial uses. Neighborhood commercial uses and amenities should be added to serve the needs of nearby residents. Hermosa Hills Neighborhood The Hermosa Hills area transitions from high- and medium -density uses adjacent to PCH and lower -density single -family uses closer to Prospect Avenue. House forms are generally small in this area, with small to moderate front and side setbacks, and many streets are closed to through traffic next to PCH. The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single - family development pattern of this area. Many streets in this neighborhood should be enhanced with new sidewalks to create a complete pedestrian network. Eastside Neighborhood The Eastside neighborhood accommodates single-family residential development types and includes Hermosa View School and multiple neighborhood parks. In terms of street activity levels, this neighborhood is one of the quietest areas of the community. The intent is to preserve building form, orientation, and scale and to retain the quiet nature and unique streetscape of this area. Many streets in this neighborhood should be enhanced with new sidewalks to create a complete pedestrian network. Districts Downtown District The Downtown District is the heart of social and commercial activity in Hermosa Beach, serving as a centralized location for social gatherings and the recreational activities of residents and visitors. Pier Plaza serves as a popular venue for outdoor events and dining, The intent is to enhance the building form and orientation and to maintain the pedestrian realm along Pier Avenue while transforming the realm on Hermosa Avenue. The Downtown District will continue to offer an array of uses for residents and visitors, and any new buildings should pay City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.1-17 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Existing Visual Character Future Vision connecting Downtown to the beach, the pier, and The Strand. The "pedestrian scramble" at the intersection of Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue is a unique pedestrian amenity that reinforces the pedestrian -oriented nature of Downtown. close attention to and contribute to the high quality pedestrian environment provided throughout Downtown. Civic Center District At the physical center of town, the Civic Center area is the civic hub of services and activities for the community. The Civic Center provides efficient and accessible services to the community, but is in need of modernization, repairs, and additional space. The intent is to transform the building orientation and design in the Civic Center, while enhancing the streetscape and circulation of all modes and users. The Civic Center facilities will be modernized to accommodate the range of functions and services provided by the City, and will be expanded to provide consolidated parking facilities in well-designed or underground parking structures to serve commercial uses both along Pacific Coast Highway and in Downtown. Streetscape enhancements will provide an important connection between the main thoroughfares of Pacific Coast Highway, Downtown, and the residential neighborhoods. Cypress District The Cypress District currently includes a range of professional design, Tight manufacturing, and warehousing uses and is home to many of the locally renowned surfboard shapers. The City operations yard occupies a Targe portion of this area. The intent is to transform both the building design and orientation as well as the public realm and streetscape within the Cypress District. This area is the creative, production, and light industrial center of Hermosa Beach where ideas, spaces, and creativity are easily shared. The Cypress District includes a variety of flexible use spaces, co -working offices, and creative or "maker" industries. Corridors Aviation Corridor The Aviation Boulevard Corridor serves as the primary entry point into Hermosa Beach. There are currently a variety of commercial retail, office, and auto -oriented uses along the corridor. The intent is to transform the building design, form, and orientation while enhancing the streetscape and access for pedestrians and bicyclists in this area. The area should be transformed into a walkable, multi -use, active commercial corridor with ground -floor uses such as retail, restaurants, and personal services to serve the daily needs of residents east of PCH and provide artistic and cultural services to the entire community. Enhanced streetscapes with parkettes or outdoor space, paired with new commercial uses, should help to activate the street. PCH Corridor The PCH corridor serves as the primary entry point into Hermosa Beach, as well as a pass-through corridor between Manhattan Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There should be a variety of commercial retail, office, residential, and auto -oriented uses along the corridor. The intent is to enhance building design and form and transform streetscapes and gateways to serve pedestrians and improve vehicular circulation. The PCH corridor will be a multi -use commercial corridor with key activity nodes and iconic architecture to activate the entryways. The corridor connects the community with adjacent neighborhoods and cities. A regular rhythm of storefronts and streetscape enhancements should provide a welcoming atmosphere that is enticing to shoppers and pleasant to walk along. New gateway monuments and signage should be added to promote Hermosa Beach's identity. Consolidated parking facilities are added at key locations along the corridor. Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-18 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES The potential for visual character to change significantly under PLAN Hermosa is largely a function of how changes to the built environment are regulated and shaped by future policies to protect the community's visual character. Protecting visual character does not prohibit changes to the visual environment. However, the changes that occur would not significantly degrade or eliminate key elements that contribute to visual character, and new elements introduced into the built environment are not incongruous to the point of degrading the local visual environment. Visual Transparency As described above in the Scenic Vistas/View Corridors subsection, visual access to the ocean is an important characteristic of much of Hermosa Beach, particularly in the portions of the city west of Loma Drive/Morningside Drive. This visual access is made available to the public through the visual transparency provided by many small and closely spaced east -west -trending streets offering views of the ocean. Current zoning in this portion of the city consists of R-1, R-2, R -2B, R-3, C-1, and C-2 designations. Within this range of residential and commercial zones, a minimum front yard setback of 5 feet is required (or 10 percent of the lot depth, in an R-1 zone). PLAN Hermosa does not propose changing the current setback requirement in these districts. Residential building heights are limited to 25 to 30 feet, with commercial building heights limited to a maximum of 35 feet, provisions that would also remain unchanged under PLAN Hermosa. Many of the commercial height limits were established through voter initiatives and would require a citywide vote of the people to change the height limits. The continued regulation of land uses in accordance with these standards is a mechanism for preventing significant encroachment and for the protection of minor view corridors present along east -west coastal streets. Although future actions under PLAN Hermosa would include remodels and reuse development projects, these key elements of the City's current and future development standards in these zones would reduce impacts on the characteristic visual permeability that currently exists. This protection would be reinforced by proposed Policy 5.3 of the Parks + Open Space Element. Potential impacts of utilities and other public infrastructure projects are addressed in implementation action PARKS -11. The established development standards that would be carried forward with PLAN Hermosa, along with proposed Policy 5.3 and implementation action PARKS -11, would avoid significant adverse impacts on visual transparency in the coastal area of the city. Visual Character of Neighborhoods, Corridors, and Districts As outlined above, PLAN Hermosa's intent is to maintain and enhance the city's visual character through appropriate building massing, scale, and size. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not substantially alter any of the residential neighborhoods or areas of the city, but may alter certain areas near Downtown and The Strand, through new development and streetscape. PLAN Hermosa policies are meant to preserve the city's character, including those resources that are designated landmarks or architecturally distinctive. For example, Goal 5 is intended to specifically retain the city's character as a small beach town. Further, Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.6 would require the City to consider new development's compatibility with the existing scale and context, and Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.2 accommodates new buildings in a way that reflects the visual character of the community. None of the provisions of PLAN Hermosa would alter current land use patterns, height restrictions, or compatibility and buffering requirements currently established in the Zoning Ordinance (e.g., Sections 17.22.130, 17.26.050, and 17.28.030). PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions identified in this section implement and expand current General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan policy provisions for the protection of the city's visual character identified above in subsection 4.1.3, Regulatory Setting. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-19 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Future land uses consistent with PLAN Hermosa would only allow new development to occur within the city in a manner that enhances and preserves Hermosa Beach's existing visual character. While changes to and demolition of certain buildings may have an impact on the cultural significance of a resource, it does not necessarily mean that these alterations would have an impact as an aesthetic resource. Provided that new structures are consistent with the visual character of the surrounding area based on the PLAN Hermosa policies and descriptions of the character area, it is possible for future development projects to impact the significance of a cultural resource but have a less than significant impact to aesthetic resources. Additionally, future development projects would be evaluated for form, line, and massing in relation to the neighborhood or adjacent structures or background as part of the City's design review process and for compliance with the Municipal Code. Compliance with Municipal Code Section 17.20.020, for instance, would ensure that the proposed structure's style and pitch of the roof, mass and bulk, and architectural appearance (e.g., type, style, and shape of the structure and the proposed exterior materials) match the neighborhood's existing character. In addition, Municipal Code Section 17.53.020(c) encourages proposed developments near historic structures to incorporate complementary contemporary design and construction. Land Use + Design Element Policies 1.6, 1.8, and 2.7 would also require new developments to be compatible with surrounding development, as well as enhance existing character and be sensitive to context. Implementation action LAND USE -2 directs the City to update the development standards within the Zoning Code to illustrate and articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area in accordance with those key features and characteristics to ensure that the overall visual character of the neighborhoods, centers, and districts is preserved. This action would apply to individual neighborhoods and character areas as identified in Figure 4.1-1 and in Table 4.1-1, as it would apply citywide. The proposed implementation action establishes the appropriate mechanism for developing zoning standards that would prevent significant degradation of the built environment's visual character. As such, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and programs would reduce the impacts associated with visual character and visual sensitivity to a less than significant level because the City would implement development standards that require attention to and consistency with the surrounding area in form, line, massing, and existing visual character and identity. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.1-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Create New Shade or Shadow in a Manner That Substantially Affects Outdoor Recreation Facilities or Other Public Gathering Areas? PLAN Hermosa would allow development or reuse projects in a manner where new sources of shade or shadow may reach outdoor recreation facilities or public gathering areas. However, the voter -approved height limits effectively restrict the number of areas in which shade or shadow may have an adverse effect but do not eliminate all potential sources. This impact would be less than significant. The length and direction of shadows cast from buildings and other structures are a function of building height and sun angle. Sun angle is, in turn, a function of latitude, season, and time of day. In Hermosa Beach, because of its latitude in the northern hemisphere, the sun casts shadows only on the north side of structures. Shadows move clockwise during the day, beginning in a northwesterly direction (as the sun rises in the southeast) and rotating to a northeasterly direction (as the sun sets in the southwest). Shadow length changes dramatically during the day, with its greatest lengths occurring just after dawn and just before dusk, with a PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-20 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES minimum at noon when the sun is nearly directly overhead. In the winter months, shadows are longer, as the sun shifts south relative to the earth, culminating in the longest shadows on the winter solstice (December 21). The summer solstice (June 21) is the time of year when the sun's shadow is shortest. In between the two solstices, the sun angle and its shadows range between the two extremes of the winter and summer solstices. Examples of shadow lengths for Hermosa Beach's latitude and for a 35 -foot -tall structure are presented in Table 4.1-2 (Shadow Lengths in Hermosa Beach). TABLE 4.1-2 SHADOW LENGTHS IN HERMOSA BEACH Shadow Lengths for 35 -Foot Structure (in feet) Time of Year 10 AM Noon 2 PM March 20 (Spring Equinox) 49 26 26 June 21 (Summer Solstice) 29 10 11 September 22 (Autumn Equinox) 44 25 27 December 21 (Winter Solstice) 69 55 74 Source: suncalc.org 2016 Under current zoning, the maximum allowed building height in Hermosa Beach is 35 feet. The shadow lengths in Table 4.1-2 therefore present seasonal and diurnal lengths for a worst-case condition. The distances in the table suggest that a building of 35 -foot height would cast a shadow that would extend beyond the property limits of its parcel, given the relatively small size of most parcels in Hermosa Beach. In residential areas where building setbacks are usually 5 feet or less, a 35 -foot building would likely cast a shadow onto one or more adjacent properties. For purposes of this EIR, the City considers shadow impacts to be significant and adverse if they intrude extensively into a public open space, such as a park, plaza, greenbelt, or walk street, for a prolonged period of time. Other shadow effects, such as shadows that extend onto private properties, may raise important planning or design considerations, but they do not relate to the public environment. The City's Zoning Ordinance addresses potential shadow effects on private properties for proposed structures above 30 feet in height in areas where the normally allowed building height is 30 feet or less but adjacent structures that pre -date current zoning exceed the current limit. For a significant shadow impact to occur, a new structure would have to be sited at a location that is adjacent to a public open space area. The adjacent open space would have to be north of the proposed structure and the structure would have to be near enough to impact the open space area significantly during the greater part of the sunlit day, that is, between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. The representative shadow lengths shown in Table 4.1-2 suggest that the adjacent open space would have to be within at least 40 feet of the proposed structure for a significant shadow encroachment to occur. This assumes that the proposed structure is the maximum allowed building height of 35 feet. There are very few locations in the city where these conditions might occur. One such area is the neighborhood just south of Clark Field. Under current conditions, this neighborhood is occupied by two- and three-story residential buildings, which likely cast a shadow during the early morning and late afternoon hours onto some portion of the field, although the effect would extend to cover less than 20 percent of the field area (Clark Field is approximately 450 feet in length) within the hours of peak park sunlight or of peak park use. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-21 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES PLAN Hermosa does not propose any changes to the current height limits. Implementation action LAND USE -3 indicates that the City would develop provisions in the zoning code that ensure avoidance of significant shadow impacts from new structures onto public recreational areas, parks or other public gathering places during the hours of 10 AM to 2 PM. Any future project that would be developed under PLAN Hermosa would be required to comply with this regulation. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.1-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Create New Sources of Light or Glare? PLAN Hermosa would guide development and reuse projects in a manner that could create new sources of glare, skyglow, and spillover lighting. However, PLAN Hermosa also includes specific policies and implementation actions that minimize adverse effects related to new sources of light and glare. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. The city is primarily built out, with existing sources of daytime glare and nighttime light. Development and other future actions under PLAN Hermosa have the potential to introduce new sources of daytime glare and increase nighttime lighting and illumination levels through intensification of development. Lighting impacts can be identified according to three categories: • Glare — Intense light that shines directly or is reflected from a surface into a person's eyes. • "Skyglow"/Nighttime Illumination — Artificial lighting from urbanized sources in sufficient quantity to cause lighting of the nighttime sky and reduction of visibility of stars and other astronomical features. • "Spillover" Lighting — Artificial lighting that spills over onto adjacent properties, which could interrupt sleeping patterns or cause other nuisances to neighboring residents. The main source of introduced daytime glare is sunlight reflected from structures with reflective surfaces such as windows or glass and metal used as building materials. The amount of glare depends on the intensity and direction of sunlight, which can be more acute at sunrise and sunset because the angle of the sun is lower at these times. Glare impacts are best avoided through careful selection of building materials and consideration of the site-specific context in which new structures or remodels are proposed, relative to sun angles and surrounding uses. The likelihood of significant glare impacting public spaces (such as the plaza of lower Pier Avenue) as a result of PLAN Hermosa and its policies and actions is low and can be addressed through provisions proposed under implementation action LAND USE -3. Potential sources of new and increased nighttime lighting and illumination include, but are not limited to, lighting associated with new development or remodels (of any land use type), lights associated with vehicular travel (e.g., car headlights), street lighting, parking lot lights, and security -related lighting. Increased nighttime lighting and illumination can result in adverse effects in the form of spillover onto adjacent properties and nighttime skyglow impacts. Subsequent development would be subject to existing City development and design standards set forth in the City's Municipal Code. Section 17.26.050 of the current Municipal Code requires any lighting provided for commercial outdoor dining uses, unless exempted by a Conditional Use Permit, to be extinguished no later than 11:00 PM in the C-3 zone and by 10:00 PM in zones that allow similar uses. It also requires that the lighting be high efficiency, the minimum intensity necessary, fully shielded (full cutoff) and downcast (emitting no light above the horizontal plane PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-22 • 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES of the fixture), not create glare or spill beyond the property lines, and the lamp bulb not be directly visible from within any residential unit. PLAN Hermosa does not propose to alter this section of the code. These requirements would continue to apply to all C-3 uses. PLAN Hermosa Parks + Open Space Element Policy 5.7 would require that new buildings preserve nighttime views and minimize light levels along the shoreline. In addition, implementation action PARKS -12 would require that new developments meet exterior lighting standards. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and compliance with Municipal Code Section 17.26.050 would reduce potential impacts of light or glare in the planning area by ensuring that new developments' designs, including outdoor lighting features and material reflectivity, do not result in additional sources of light and glare. These provisions stipulate that exterior lighting be fully shielded (full cutoff) and downcast (emitting no light above the horizontal plane of the fixture), and not create glare or spill beyond the property lines, and the lamp bulb is not to be directly visible from within any residential unit. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The geographic context for the analysis of cumulative aesthetics and visual resources impacts includes Hermosa Beach and the communities of the South Bay subregion. IMPACT 4.1-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Adverse Effects Related to Visual Resources? Of the categories of potential visual impacts addressed, only the impact of artificial lighting to the night sky (skyglow impact) is potentially cumulative in nature. All other impacts (to scenic vistas, scenic resources, visual character, shade and shadow effects, and lighting impacts of glare and spillover) are localized and confined within the city limits of Hermosa Beach. This is a less than cumulatively considerable impact. Because this EIR addresses citywide impacts, cumulative effects of multiple projects that might occur within the city during the lifetime of PLAN Hermosa are addressed as a part of this assessment. The discussion of potential skyglow impacts under Impact 4.1-5 acknowledges the cumulative nature of this impact and addresses the project's potential contribution to cumulative skyglow effects. Therefore, this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.1-23 4.1 AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES 4.1.5 REFERENCES California Coastal Commission. 2013. California Public Resources Code, Division 20: California Coastal Act. Accessed February 18, 2014. http://www.coastal.ca.gov/coastact.pdf. California Energy Commission. 1980. Solar Access: A Guidebook for California Communities, March. Caltrans (California Department of Transportation). 2011. California Scenic Highway Mapping System. Accessed May 5, 2016. http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LandArch/16_livability/scenic_highways/index.htm City of Hermosa Beach. 1981. Hermosa Beach Local Coastal Program, Coastal Land Use Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=501 . 2014a. Hermosa Beach Municipal Code. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=111. . 2014b. City Facts. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=47. . 2014c. 2014-2019 Strategic Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=99. . 2014d. Community Dialogue Quality of Life and Decision Tool. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3764. . 2017. PLAN Hermosa. Ewing, Reid. 2013. "Eight Qualities of Pedestrian- and Transit -Oriented Design." Excerpts from Pedestrian- & Transit -Oriented Design. http://urbanland.uli.org/infrastructure-transit/eight- qualities-of-pedestrian-and-transit-oriented-design/. FHWA (Federal Highway Administration). 1988. Visual Impact Assessment for Highway Projects. Accessed February 24, 2016. http://www.dot.ca.gov/ser/downloads/visual/FHWAVisuallmpactAssmt.pdf. Hermosa Beach Historical Society. 2009. The Greenbelt. Accessed February 24, 2014. http://www.hermosabeachhistoricalsociety.org/greenbeltpage.html. USFS (US Forest Service). 1974. National Forest Landscape Management. Volume 2, Chapter 1. The Visual Management System. Agriculture Handbook No. 462. Washington, D.C. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.1-24 • 4.2 AIR QUALITY • • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY 4.2.1 INTRODUCTION This section evaluates potential air quality effects associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. NOP Comments: In response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP), one comment relevant to air quality was received from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) (see Appendix B). The comment was focused on ensuring that the air quality analysis for PLAN Hermosa uses region -specific and up-to-date air quality modeling methodologies to evaluate the plan's impact on air quality. These comments and the SCAQMD's guidelines for analyzing air quality impacts have been incorporated in this analysis. Reference Information: Information for this resource chapter is based on numerous sources, including the Air Quality Technical Background Report (TBR), transportation analysis of existing conditions and modeling of future conditions, and other publicly available documents. The TBR is attached as Appendix C-4. 4.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-4 describes the natural factors (i.e., topography, climate, and meteorology) that affect air quality in the region; current regional air quality conditions in the project area; and the federal, state, and local air quality regulatory framework. A summary of that information is included below. NATURAL FACTORS Hermosa Beach is a beachfront city located in the South Coast Air Basin, and the SCAQMD is the air pollution control district responsible for comprehensive air pollution control in the basin. The basin lies in the semi-permanent high-pressure zone of the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in a mild climate tempered by cool sea breezes with light average wind speeds. The usually mild climatological pattern is interrupted occasionally by periods of extremely hot weather, winter storms, or Santa Ana winds. Winds in the planning area are usually driven by the dominant land/sea breeze circulation system. Vertical dispersion of air pollutants in the air basin is hampered by the presence of persistent temperature inversions, which restrict the vertical dispersion of air pollutants released into the marine layer and, together with strong sunlight, can produce worst-case conditions for the formation of photochemical smog. CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently focus on the following criteria air pollutants as indicators of ambient air quality: ozone, particulate matter (PMio and PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and lead. Ozone is a photochemical oxidant and the primary component of smog. It is formed through complex chemical reactions between precursor emissions of reactive organic gases (ROG) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in the presence of sunlight. Elevated levels of ozone can cause irritation to lungs and breathing passages, as well as coughing and pain in the chest and throat, thereby increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections and reducing the ability to exercise. Effects are more severe in people with asthma and other respiratory ailments. Long-term exposure may lead to scarring of lung tissue and may lower lung efficiency. Hermosa Beach is located in both a federal and state nonattainment area for ozone, as local air quality conditions exceed the federal 8 -hour ozone standard and the state 1 -hour and 8 -hour ozone standards. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-1 4.2 AIR QUALITY CURRENT REGIONAL AIR QUALITY CONDITIONS Hermosa Beach is located in both a federal and state nonattainment area for PM2.5 and a state nonattainment area for PMio. The human body naturally prevents the entry of larger particles into the body. However, small particles, with an aerodynamic diameter equal to or less than 10 microns (i.e., PMio) and even smaller particles with an aerodynamic diameter equal to or less than 2.5 microns (i.e., PM23), can enter the body and are trapped in the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract. These small particulates could potentially aggravate existing heart and lung diseases, change the body's defenses against inhaled materials, and damage lung tissue. The elderly, children, and those with chronic lung or heart disease are most sensitive to PMio and PM2.5. Lung impairment can persist for several weeks after exposure to high levels of particulate matter. Some types of particulates could become toxic after inhalation due to the presence of certain chemicals on or mixed with the particulates and the chemicals' reaction with internal body fluids. The city is located in an area that meets both federal and state CO standards as well as federal and state SO2 standards. However, Hermosa Beach is located in a federal nonattainment area for NO2. Nitrogen dioxide acts as an acute irritant and, in equal concentrations, is more injurious than nitric oxide. Diesel particulate matter (diesel PM) emissions are estimated to be 11,074 tons per year for the South Coast Air Basin. In Los Angeles County, the estimated health risk from diesel PM was 951 excess cancer cases per million people in 2005. Sources of diesel PM in the planning area include freeways, arterial roadways, and railways, as well as minor sources such as off-road construction equipment, portable and backup diesel generators and pumps, and other heavy - and light-duty equipment. Other toxic air contaminant (TAC) sources in Hermosa Beach include gasoline stations, auto body shops, restaurants, dry cleaners, and some commercial and light industrial uses. The city does not contain any major sources of air pollutants that will result in unacceptable air quality impacts to residents. The city does not contain any large sources of odors. Minor sources such as paint booths, auto body repair, and other light industrial sources may exist in Hermosa Beach. Other temporary sources of odors may include construction activities such as painting and asphalt paving. 4.2.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local plans, policies, laws, and regulations provide a framework for addressing aspects of air quality that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for air quality is discussed in detail in Appendix C-4. A summary of that information as it relates to the impact analysis is provided below. • Fugitive Dust: The SCAQMD requires all projects in the air basin to implement Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust), Rule 401 (Visible Dust), and Rule 1113 (Architectural Coatings) during construction activities. • Nuisance: The SCAQMD requires all projects to comply with Rule 402 (Nuisance) during both construction and operational activities. • CAAQS: The region is nonattainment for California ambient air quality standards (CAAQS) for ozone, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 microns (PMio), particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The region is nonattainment for national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ozone, PMio, and PM2s. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-2 • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY • Land Use: CARB (2005) developed the Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective to guide the siting and design of new land uses in order to avoid exposing sensitive receptors to toxic air contaminant emissions. Sensitive receptors are people that have an increased sensitivity to air pollution or environmental contaminants. Sensitive receptor locations include schools, parks and playgrounds, day care centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and residential dwelling unit(s). 4.2.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on air quality are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the regional air quality management plan. 2) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation. 3) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors). 4) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial concentrations. 5) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. The City of Hermosa Beach uses significance criteria established by the SCAQMD to evaluate air quality impacts. According to these criteria, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would be considered significant if it would exceed any of thresholds shown in Table 4.2-1 (Mass Daily Thresholds). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-3 4.2 AIR QuAUTY TABLE 4.2-1 MASS DAILY THRESHOLDS" Pollutant Construction a Operation b VOC 75 lbs/day 55 lbs/day NOx 100 lbs/day 55 lbs/day CO 550 lbs/day 550 lbs/day SOx 150 lbs/day 150 lbs/day PMIo 150 lbs/day 150 lbs/day PM2.s 55 lbs/day 55 lbs/day Lead 3 lbs/day 3 lbs/day Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) and Odor Thresholds TACs (including carcinogens and noncarcinogens) Maximum Incremental Cancer Risk z10 in 1 million Cancer Burden >0.5 excess cancer cases (in areas 21 in 1 million) Hazard Index 21.0 (project increment) Odor Project creates an odor nuisance (defined as six or more complainants) pursuant to SCAQMD Rule 402 Ambient Air Quality for Criteria Pollutants c NO2 1 -hour average annual average SCAQMD is in attainment; project is significant if it causes or contributes to an exceedance of the following attainment standards: 0.18 ppm (state) 0.03 ppm (state) PM10 24-hour average annual average 10.4 µg/m3 (construction)d & 2.5 µg/m3 (operation) • 1.0 µg/m3 PM2s 24-hour average 10.4 µg/m3 (construction)d & 2.5 µg/m3 (operation) Sulfate 24-hour average 1µg/m3 CO 1 -hour average 8 -hour average SCAQMD is in attainment project is significant if it causes or contributes to an exceedance of the following attainment standards: 20 ppm (state) 9.0 ppm (state/federal) Source: SCAQMD 2015 Notes: o. Construction thresholds apply to both the South Coast Air Basin and Coachella Valley (Salton Seo Air Basin and Mojave Desert Air Basin). b. The mass daily thresholds for operation are the same as the construction thresholds. c. Ambient air quality thresholds for criteria pollutants ore based on SCAQMD Rule 1303, Table A-2 unless otherwise stated. d. Ambient air quality threshold is based on SCAQMD Rule 403. e. lbs/day = pounds per day, ppm = parts per million; pg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter, z greater than or equal to City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.2-4 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2 AIR QUALITY ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. The following analyses of impacts on air quality are both qualitative and quantitative and are based on available air quality information for the planning area along with a review of regional information. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area complies with applicable laws, regulations, design standards, and plans. The cumulative impact analysis uses qualitative information for the planning area and the air basin. Operational emissions associated with future land uses anticipated by PLAN Hermosa were modeled using the California Emissions Estimator Model (CaIEEMod) Version 2013.2.2 and CARB's on -road emissions inventory model, EMFAC2014. Model inputs such as land use types and sizes, vehicle miles traveled, and speed bins were obtained from the traffic study prepared for PLAN Hermosa (Fehr & Peers 2015). PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa includes several elements, including Governance, Land Use + Design, Mobility, Sustainability + Conservation, and Infrastructure. In these elements, policies and implementation actions that directly and indirectly relate to air quality include the following: Policies Governance Element • 7.4 Evaluation and disclosure. Require an evaluation and disclosure (e.g., health checklists, health impact assessments) of health impacts or benefits for major discretionary projects. Land Use + Design Element • 1.3 Access to daily activities. Strive to create development patterns such that the majority of residents are within walking distance to a variety of neighborhood goods and services, such as supermarkets, restaurants, churches, cafes, dry cleaners, Laundromats, farmers markets, banks, personal services, pharmacies, and similar uses. • 1.7 Compatibility of uses. Ensure the placement of new uses does not create or exacerbate nuisances between different types of land uses. • 4.7 Access to transit. Support the location of transit stations and enhanced stops near the intersection of Aviation Blvd. and PCH, and adjacent to Gateway Commercial uses to facilitate and take advantage of transit service, reduce vehicle trips and allow residents without private vehicles to access services. • 6.3 Green infrastructure network. Establish an interconnected green infrastructure network throughout Hermosa Beach that serves as a network for active transportation, recreation and scenic beauty and connects all areas of the city. In particular, connections should be made between the beach, parks, the Downtown, neighborhoods, and other destinations within the city. Consider the following components when designing and implementing the green/open space network: — Preserved open space areas such as the beach and the Greenbelt, — Living streets with significant landscaping and pedestrian and bicycle amenities, — Community and neighborhood parks, and schools. • 6.7 Pedestrian oriented design. Eliminate urban form conditions that reduce walkability by discouraging surface parking and parking structures along walkways, long blank walls along walkways, and garage -dominated building facades. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-5 4.2 AIR QUALITY • 9.1 Ocean -based energy resources. Encourage and support research and responsible development of renewable ocean -based energy sources. Renewable energy sources appropriate to Hermosa Beach shall be limited to wave, tidal, solar, and wind sources that meet the region's and state's need for affordable sources of renewable energy. • 9.2 Renewable energy facilities. To reduce or avoid conflicts, communicate and collaborate with affected ocean users; coastal residents and businesses; and applicants seeking state or federal authorization for the siting, development, and operation of renewable energy facilities. • 9.4 Adaptive management. Require renewable energy facility operators to rectify or mitigate adverse effects that occur during the lifetime of the project by monitoring and taking appropriate corrective measures through adaptive management. • 9.5 Reclamation. Require renewable energy facility operators to restore the natural characteristics of a site to the extent practicable when a project is decommissioned and removed. Mobility Element • 3.1 Enhance public right-of-ways. Where right-of-way clearance allows, enhance public right-of-ways to improve connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, disabled persons, and public transit stops. • 3.2 Complete pedestrian network. Prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities and connectivity to destinations. • 3.3 Active transportation. Require commercial development or redevelopment projects and residential projects with four or more units to accommodate active transportation by providing on-site amenities, necessary connections to adjacent existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks, and incorporate people -oriented design practices. • 3.4 Access opportunities. Provide enhanced mobility and access opportunities for local transportation and transit services in areas of the City with sufficient density and intensity of uses, mix of appropriate uses, and supportive bicycle and pedestrian network connections that can reduce vehicle trips within the City's busiest corridors. • 3.5 Incentivize other modes. Incentivize local shuttle/trolley services, rideshare and car share programs, and developing infrastructure that support low speed, low carbon (e.g. electric) vehicles. • 3.6 Complete bicycle network. Provide a complete bicycle network along all designated roadways while creating connections to other modes of travel including walking and transit. • 4.5 Sufficient bicycle parking. Require a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. • 4.6 Priority parking. Provide priority parking and charging stations to accommodate the use of electric vehicles (EVs), including smaller short -distance neighborhood electric vehicles. • 4.9 Encourage TDM strategies. Encourage use of transportation demand management strategies and programs such as carpooling, ride hailing, and alternative transportation modes as a way to reduce demand for additional parking supply. • 5.1 Prioritize development of infrastructure. Prioritize the development of roadway and parking infrastructure that encourages private electric and other low carbon vehicle ownership and use throughout the City. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-6 • • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY • 5.2 Local transit system. Develop a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport of residents, hotel guests, and beachgoers between activity centers and to Downtown businesses and the beach. • 5.3 Incentivize TDM strategies. Incentivize the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies as a cost effective method for maximizing existing transportation infrastructure to accommodate mobility demands without significant expansion to infrastructure. • 5.4 Evaluate projects. Ensure the evaluation of projects for transportation and traffic impacts under CEQA consider local and statewide goals related to infill development, the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles through active transportation, and the reduction of greenhouse gases, in addition to traditional congestion management impacts. • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development that supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. • 6.1 Regional network. Work with government agencies and private sector companies to develop a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network that connects the community to surrounding cities. • 6.2 Consider travel patterns. Consider regional travel patterns when collaborating on regional transit and transportation projects to ensure investments facilitate greater mobility and access for residents, businesses, and visitors to and from Hermosa Beach. • 6.3 Transportation sharing programs. Facilitate greater local and regional mobility through access to shared equipment or transportation options such as car sharing and bike sharing. • 6.4 Coordinate with agencies. Coordinate with regional transportation agencies and surrounding cities to improve local access and connections to regional public transit services. • 6.5 Coordinate with surrounding cities. Coordinate with surrounding cities to prioritize non - motorized and pedestrian connections to regional facilities and surrounding cities. • 6.6 Greater utilization of BCT. Consider exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Beach Cities Transit system for improved mobility along major corridors and as a potential means of improved regional transit connections. • 8.1 Minimize truck impacts. Maintain and regularly re-evaluate the designation of truck routes to minimize the negative impacts of trucking through the City. • 8.2 Prohibit excessive idling. Discourage commercial vehicles from excessive idling during deliveries and while parked. • 8.3 Commercial loading zones. Encourage businesses to provide commercial loading zones on-site where possible, or in the adjacent public right-of-way in a manner that balances the needs of businesses with the impact on traffic conditions and at appropriate delivery times. • 8.5 Utilize technology. Encourage commercial vehicles to utilize technologies that minimize air pollution, fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions. • 8.6 Prohibit mobile advertising. Consider prohibiting mobile advertising, such as moving billboards, to avoid unnecessary traffic congestion and air pollution. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-7 4.2 AIR QUALITY Sustainability + Conservation Element • 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. • 2.6 Greenhouse gas thresholds. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds for use in evaluating non-exempt discretionary projects consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and require projects above that threshold to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, and locally offset the remainder of greenhouse gas emissions produced to meet thresholds. • 3.1 Stationary and mobile sources. Seek to improve overall respiratory health for residents through regulation of stationary and mobile sources of air pollution, as feasible. • 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. • 3.3 Fuel efficient fleets. Promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. • 3.4 Landscape equipment. Discourage the use of equipment with two-stroke engines and publicize the benefits and importance of alternative technologies. • 3.5 Clean fuels. Support increased local access to cleaner fuels and cleaner energy by encouraging fueling stations that provide cleaner fuels and energy to the community. • 3.6 Healthy Air Hermosa. Maintain high quality outdoor and public spaces in Hermosa Beach through the Healthy Air Hermosa program, or subsequent programs which aim to reduce cigarette smoke. • 3.7 Regional air quality. When possible, collaborate with other agencies within the region to improve air quality and meet or exceed state and federal air quality standards through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources, including trucks and passenger vehicles and other large polluters. • 4.1 Renewable energy generation. Support and facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses. • 4.2 Retrofit program. Provide an energy retrofit program and incentives to assist home and building owners to make efficiency improvements. • 7.2 Soil erosion. Utilize best management practices in grading and construction to minimize the amount of sediment running onto the street, drainage facilities, or adjacent properties. Infrastructure Element • 2.5 Active transportation dedications. Require new development and redevelopment projects to provide land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as widened sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops, in compliance with ADA accessibility standards. • 6.1 Utility maintenance permitting. Allow efficient and streamlined permitting for the maintenance, repair, improvement, and expansion of utility facilities and infrastructure. • 6.2 Below ground utilities. Encourage the phase out and replace overhead electric lines with subsurface lines to reduce visual blight and the need for utility poles which can impede sidewalk accessibility. • 6.3 Environmental compatibility. Ensure that utility facilities and infrastructure cause minimal damage to the environment and that utility service providers are responsible for City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-8 • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY costs associated with damage caused to the environment and public right-of-way so that providers will seek to minimize those costs. • 6.4 Innovative and renewable technology. Encourage the exploration and establishment of innovative and renewable utility service technologies. Allow the testing of new alternative energy sources that are consistent with the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa and comply with all relevant regulations. • 6.5 Renewable energy facilities. Unless a renewable energy facility would cause an unmitigatable impact to health or safety, allow them by right. • 6.6 Renewable energy procurement. Collaborate with nearby local and regional agencies to provide greater renewable energy choices to the community. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -12. Create a checklist and resource guide comprising local, state, and federal requirements for the development of offshore renewable energy facilities to streamline permitting requirements and improve public awareness. • MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, - traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. • MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. • MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. • MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. • MOBILITY -19. Develop congestion management performance measures and significant impact thresholds that are in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) requirements for roadway segments and intersections. • SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to provide an option to offset their fair share of greenhouse gas emissions generated, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. • SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. • SUSTAINABILITY -6. Implement the City's clean fleet policy through the purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. • SUSTAINABILITY -7. Concurrent with new State Building Code adoptions, periodically update or amend Green Building Standards and conduct cost effectiveness studies to incorporate additional energy -efficiency and energy production features. • SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-9 4.2 AIR QUALITY • SUSTAINABILITY -16. Revise the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure it reflects up-to- date practices to reduce potential for soil erosion and ways to minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on the loss of topsoil. • SUSTAINABILITY -17. Develop a citywide expansive and corrosive soils screening tool to reduce the need for site-specific soil reports. • SUSTAINABILITY -18. Where feasible, new development or redevelopment shall be sited and designed to minimize alteration of natural landforms by conforming to the local topography; preventing substantial grading or reconfiguration of the project site; requiring that man-made contours mimic natural contours; ensuring that graded slopes blend with the existing terrain of the site and surrounding areas; and clustering structures to minimize site disturbance and to minimize development area. • PARKS -19. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. • SAFETY -17. Provide information, opportunities, and incentives to the community for the proper disposal of toxic materials to avoid environmental degradation to the air, soil, and water resources from toxic materials contamination. • INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. • INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.2-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of the Applicable Air Quality Plan? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could result in air pollution emissions. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce conflicts with air quality plans to a less than significant level. Regional air quality plans are developed to attain and maintain ambient air quality standards. As summarized in the Environmental Setting subsection above and shown in Table 1 of Appendix C-4, the region is nonattainment for the state and federal ozone, PMio, and PM23 standards and is nonattainment for the state NO2 standard. As noted above, these pollutants cause public health issues involving asthma and other respiratory ailments as well as aggravate existing heart and lung diseases. In order for the region to attain and maintain air quality standards and protect public health, a concerted effort from all cities and counties in the air basin is required to reduce emissions from a variety of sources. Air quality plans model emission contributions from sources within the air basin (and outside the air basin for transport of emissions) using planned land uses and reduction measure assumptions. This type of modeling demonstrates how the air quality plan can or cannot attain air quality standards by certain dates. Therefore, if a city in the air basin would not be consistent with the assumptions and emission reduction strategies contained in an air quality plan, this could conflict with or obstruct the region's ability to attain an ambient air quality standard. By focusing planning and improvement efforts toward designing complete streets, promoting economic diversity, and enhancing communitywide mobility, PLAN Hermosa is anticipated to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within the city. Mobility Element Goal 3 would encourage City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-10 • • • • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY multimodal and people -oriented transportation, which could minimize or eliminate certain mobile vehicle trips (see Section 4.14, Transportation, of this EIR for an analysis of anticipated vehicle miles traveled under PLAN Hermosa). Land Use + Design Element Goal 1 would promote a diverse mix of uses, which would reduce vehicle trips between residential uses and retail or employment uses. Land Use + Design Element Goal 4 would increase the accessibility of public transit to nearby residential uses, thus reducing vehicle miles traveled. Mobility Element Policy 5.5 encourages land use policies to ensure more compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes. Implementing these policies and programs would strengthen Hermosa Beach's efforts to reduce air quality emissions from VMT, area sources, construction, and other miscellaneous sources beyond that of the existing General Plan,' which is the basis for the existing regional air quality plan (i.e., 2012 Air Quality Management Plan [AQMP]). Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.1 seeks to improve overall respiratory health for residents through regulation of stationary and mobile sources of air pollution. Policy 3.2 encourages support for land use and transportation strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled and emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. Policy 3.3 would promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. Policy 3.7 would ensure that future projects consider impacts on regional air quality planning efforts. Policy 7.2 would require construction projects to control emissions, particularly soil disturbance, which is a source of PMio and PM2.5 emissions. As stated in the 2012 AQMP, the plan is aimed at controlling pollution from all man-made sources, including stationary sources, on -road and off-road mobile sources, and area sources (SCAQMD 2013). Therefore, the emission reductions that could be achieved through implementation of PLAN Hermosa are anticipated to exceed those currently planned for in the regional air quality plan and would be consistent with the 2012 AQMP. Although the SCAQMD is currently developing a 2016 Air Quality Management Plan, it is anticipated that the 2016 AQMP would target the same types of emission sources and would require further reductions from all jurisdictions because of the nonattainment status of the air basin with respect to state ozone, NOx, PM2.5, and PMio standards. Both the 2012 adopted and 2016 proposed AQMPs rely on the growth projections and vehicle travel patterns modeled in the Southern California Association of Governments' Regional Transportation Plan (Section 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this EIR evaluates PLAN Hermosa's consistency with the Regional Transportation Plan). As discussed in Section 4.14, Transportation, many PLAN Hermosa goals and policies are aimed at reducing VMT. Fehr & Peers used the TDM+ model to quantify potential reductions in trip generation and VMT that could occur by 2040 with full buildout and implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Fehr & Peers worked with the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) to develop the transportation section of the report titled Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. This report is now used as a set of guidelines for quantifying the environmental benefits of mitigation measures. The CAPCOA guidelines were developed by conducting a comprehensive literature review of studies documenting the effects of land use planning and transportation demand management (TDM) strategies on reducing VMT. Using the results of this study, Fehr & Peers developed TDM+, a quick response tool that demonstrates trip I The existing General Plan is identified as the No Project Alternative in Section 6.0, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, of this EIR. Table 6-1 of Chapter 6 and Table 4-1 of Appendix C-4 to this EIR identify vehicle travel as the main contributor to ozone precursors (ROG and NOx). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-11 4.2 AIR QUALITY reductions from commonly used TDM strategies. The tool also accounts for the interaction among different measures in various categories to avoid double counting. As described in Section 4.14, numerous PLAN Hermosa land use and mobility strategies were modeled to demonstrate reductions in VMT, including but not limited to land use strategies such as development of mixed-use and urban infill sites with transit proximity and a density, scale, and design that can facilitate walking, biking, and other alternative travel options. PLAN Hermosa policies include numerous measures that support transportation demand and accessibility management. Specifically, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.2 directs the City to support land use and transportation strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled and emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. Policy 3.7 directs the City to consult with other agencies to improve air quality through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources. PLAN Hermosa would promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. These and other policies support region -wide traffic and air quality management strategies that support achievement of AQMP goals. PLAN Hermosa would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the regional air quality plan; therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.2-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Generate Short -Term Construction Emissions That Would Violate Any Air Quality Standard or Contribute Substantially to an Existing or Projected Air Quality Violation? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could generate air pollutant emissions from short-term construction. Although PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce short-term emissions, construction emissions would result in a potentially significant impact. The SCAQMD has established quantitative daily thresholds of significance for construction emissions, as identified in Table 4.2-1. Development associated with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in construction emissions that would be evaluated using the SCAQMD thresholds of significance on a project -by -project basis. However, at the program level, it would be speculative to accurately model construction emissions associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa because it is unknown at this time what projects specifically would be constructed under the plan, what construction equipment would be used for each project, and what each project's construction phasing would be. Therefore, construction air quality impacts are evaluated qualitatively. Construction of PLAN Hermosa's proposed land uses would generate short-term criteria air pollutant and ozone precursor emissions from sources such as heavy-duty construction equipment, material delivery trucks, soil disturbance activities, construction worker vehicles, and architectural coatings, among other activities. The daily amounts of pollutants generated would vary depending on the intensity of the construction activities and types of construction equipment used. Smaller projects with a more compact schedule, though they may involve less overall development, could generate daily emissions that exceed those of a large project with a drawn-out schedule. CaIEEMod is an emissions model developed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District to calculate construction emissions for CEQA projects. Within CaIEEMod, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-12 • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY smaller projects such as single-family residences or commercial or industrial uses which are less than 150,000 square feet and that have minimal or no overlapping construction activities would not likely exceed the SCAQMD's CEQA significance thresholds for construction. Most of the development activity in the city is not expected to exceed 150,000 square feet given the city's developed condition and the limited number of large or contiguous parcels that are vacant and underutilized and therefore more likely to redevelop. However, larger projects or projects which are more complex (large quantities of grading, accelerated schedule, overlapping activities) may have the potential to exceed significance thresholds. Current examples of projects that may be under 150,000 square feet, but involve grading or excavation, include the proposed Skechers Design Center and Executive Office Project and the proposed Strand and Pier Hotel Project. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate construction emissions by simply evaluating the number of units or square feet of space to be developed. However, there is potential that construction of some future projects pursuant to PLAN Hermosa would generate short-term construction emissions that could exceed the SCAQMD's thresholds of significance. A number of PLAN Hermosa policies, along with required SCAQMD rules and regulations, would help reduce short-term construction emissions. All construction projects in the city would be subject to SCAQMD Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust) to minimize fugitive particulate matter (PM) dust emissions during construction. In addition, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 7.2 would require future projects to minimize PMio and PM2.5 emissions by promoting best practices for controlling fugitive dust. Implementation actions SUSTAINABILITY -16 and 17 aim to control soil erosion during grading and other construction activities. Furthermore, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 2.6 would require all discretionary projects to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, which would also affect the emissions of ozone precursors, PMio, and PM2.5 in the city. Although the SCAQMD would require compliance with Rule 403, and implementation of multiple PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce construction emissions, there is potential that a number of future projects will continue to generate emissions which exceed the SCAQMD construction thresholds of significance. Because most construction projects are performed by private parties, the City would have little control over construction equipment and truck emissions. However, EPA emissions standards require strict emissions controls for construction equipment and trucks that are phased in over time. As older construction equipment is phased out and replaced with newer equipment, emissions from the average construction fleet would be lower. With time, the construction fleet would eventually meet EPA Tier 4 emissions standards, which are currently the most stringent standards. Construction -related impacts would be potentially significant. To reduce construction -related emissions, mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e would be required. Mitigation Measures MM 4.2-2a Construction projects within the city shall demonstrate compliance with all applicable standards of the Southern California Air Quality Management District, including the following provisions of District Rule 403: • All unpaved demolition and construction areas shall be wetted at least twice daily during excavation and construction, and temporary dust covers shall be used to reduce dust emissions and meet SCAQMD Rule 403. Wetting could reduce fugitive dust by as much as 50 percent. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-13 4.2 AIR QUALITY MM 4.2-2b • The construction area shall be kept sufficiently dampened to control dust caused by grading and hauling, and at all times provide reasonable control of dust caused by wind. • All clearing, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be discontinued during periods of high winds (i.e., greater than 15 mph), so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • All dirt/soil Toads shall be secured by trimming, watering, or other appropriate means to prevent spillage and dust. • All dirt/soil materials transported off-site shall be required to cover their loads as required by California Vehicle Code Section 23114 to prevent excessive amount of dust. • General contractors shall maintain and operate construction equipment so as to minimize exhaust emissions. • Trucks having no current hauling activity shall not idle but shall be turned off. In accordance with Section 2485 in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, the idling of all diesel -fueled commercial vehicles (weighing over 10,000 pounds) during construction shall be limited to 5 minutes at any location. MM 4.2-2c Construction projects within the city shall comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113 limiting the volatile organic compound content of architectural coatings. MM 4.2-2d Construction projects within the city shall install odor -reducing equipment in accordance with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1138. MM 4.2-2e Project applicants shall identify all measures to reduce air pollutant emissions below SCAQMD thresholds prior to the issuance of building permits. Should attainment of SCAQMD thresholds be determined to be infeasible, construction contractors shall provide evidence of this to the City and will be encouraged to apply for SCAQMD SOON funds. Significance After Mitigation Even with the implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e, SCAQMD Rule 403, and PLAN Hermosa policies, it is still anticipated that some projects would have the potential to generate daily construction emissions that exceed the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. Because the intensity and schedule of construction activities cannot be determined at the time of this program -level analysis, it would be speculative to conclude that any level of mitigation would reduce daily construction emissions below the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. Incentives could be provided for those construction contractors who apply for SCAQMD SOON funds. The SOON program provides funds to accelerate cleanup of off-road diesel vehicles, such as heavy-duty construction equipment. In many cases, because of the amount of construction required for a project, even if all feasible mitigation is implemented, daily emissions could still exceed the significance thresholds. Therefore, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-14 • 4.2 AIR QUALITY IMPACT 4.2-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Generate Long -Term Operational Emissions That Would Violate Any Air Quality Standard or Contribute Substantially to an Existing or Projected Air Quality Violation? Subsequent development associated with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa could generate air pollutant emissions from Tong -term operation. PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and enforcement of current SCAQMD rules and regulations would help reduce long-term emissions. Daily operational emissions from long-term operation of PLAN Hermosa would result in a less than significant impact. Long-term operational emissions are generated from stationary, area, and mobile sources. Table 4.2-2 (Summary of Modeled Operational Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants and Precursors) summarizes the daily long-term operational emissions of criteria air pollutants and precursors for existing and new development that could occur under the full buildout potential by 2040. The daily operational area, energy, and mobile source emissions were modeled using CaIEEMod (Version 2013.2.2) computer model EMFAC2014 and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) data in the traffic study prepared by Fehr & Peers (2015). TABLE 4.2-2 SUMMARY OF MODELED OPERATIONAL EMISSIONS OF CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS AND PRECURSORS Source: Appendix D; existing conditions modeled by Michael Baker International 2016. SCAQMD = South Coast Air Quality Management District. lbs/day = pounds per day, CO = carbon monoxide; NOx = oxides of nitrogen; PM,o = particulate matter less than or equol to 10 microns in diameter, PM2s = particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns in diameter; ROG = reactive organic gases. Emissions modeled using the CaIEEMod (Version 2013.22) computer model and EMFAC2014, based on daily vehicle miles traveled, daily trips, and land uses obtained from the traffic analysis prepared for this project, which estimates a reduction of 2,500 daily vehicle trips under PLAN Hermosa as compared to existing conditions. Note: The total emissions estimates shown are the highest values that would occur in the summer or winter season. Totals may not odd up to individual values since the highest emissions for a pollutant from both area and mobile sources may not occur in the same season. Refer to Appendix D for detailed assumptions and modeling output files. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.2-15 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report Emissions (lbs/day)a VOC NOx CO SOx PM2o PM2.s Existing Conditions Area Sources 1,128 18 1,674 <1 129 129 Energy 5 46 20 <1 4 4 Mobile Sources 157 472 1,933 5 309 87 Total 1,290 536 3,627 5 442 220 Development Potential Under PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Area Sources 25 <1 25 <1 <1 <1 Energy 1 13 11 <1 1 1 Residential Area Sources 17 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 Energy 1 12 10 <1 <1 <1 Mobile Sources (15) (30) (123) (0) (3) (1) Total Daily Operational Emissions — PLAN Hermosa Development Potential 30 (5) (77) (0) (0) 1 Project -Based SCAQMD Significance Threshold 55 55 550 150 150 55 Exceeds Project Threshold? No No No No No No Plan Hermosa Development Potential Plus Existing Conditions 1,320 531 3,550 5 442 221 Source: Appendix D; existing conditions modeled by Michael Baker International 2016. SCAQMD = South Coast Air Quality Management District. lbs/day = pounds per day, CO = carbon monoxide; NOx = oxides of nitrogen; PM,o = particulate matter less than or equol to 10 microns in diameter, PM2s = particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns in diameter; ROG = reactive organic gases. Emissions modeled using the CaIEEMod (Version 2013.22) computer model and EMFAC2014, based on daily vehicle miles traveled, daily trips, and land uses obtained from the traffic analysis prepared for this project, which estimates a reduction of 2,500 daily vehicle trips under PLAN Hermosa as compared to existing conditions. Note: The total emissions estimates shown are the highest values that would occur in the summer or winter season. Totals may not odd up to individual values since the highest emissions for a pollutant from both area and mobile sources may not occur in the same season. Refer to Appendix D for detailed assumptions and modeling output files. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.2-15 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2 AIR QUALITY The SCAQMD's thresholds ore established for individual projects and are not readily applied to a 25 year program such as PLAN Hermosa. Although the City will apply the SCAQMD's thresholds to individual projects as they are brought forward, the total emissions in the city and the planning area will still exceed these project -based thresholds. As shown in Table 4.2-2, area sources contribute to most of the ROG, CO, and PM operational emissions in the city. With regard to mobile source emissions, PLAN Hermosa policies would result in a reduction of vehicle miles traveled within the city. As a result, mobile source emissions would be reduced compared to existing conditions. Heavy -commercial or industrial land uses are more likely to involve stationary sources, while retail and residential land uses would involve more area source emissions (e.g., natural gas water and space heating, consumer products, landscape maintenance). Similar to construction emissions, the SCAQMD has developed daily thresholds of significance for operational activities. Project -level analysis of future projects would evaluate daily emissions against the SCAQMD operational thresholds of significance. PLAN Hermosa includes numerous goals, policies, and programs that would impact future emissions associated with land use operations. Mobility Element Policies 3.6, 5.2, and 5.3 would provide new and existing land uses with greater accessibility to alternate modes of transportation and supporting amenities, some of which would be emissions -free (e.g., walking, biking). Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide convenient alternatives to driving and reduce trip distances through infill development in the city. In addition, Mobility Element Policies 3.4 and 5.2 would use public transit to link employment and residential centers to provide realistic alternatives to single -occupant vehicles for a variety of trip types (e.g., home to work, home to shopping). Mobility Element Policies 3.2 and 3.3 would require new development to add pedestrian infrastructure and provide necessary connections to transit and alternate transit modes, respectively. Mobility Element Policy 5.5 and Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.3 would require that more compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes and that safe and convenient complete streets (i.e., designed for all modes of transportation) be implemented throughout the city and connect residential and amenities for feasible day-to-day use. Increasing bicycle mode share is a major goal to reduce mobile source emissions. Implementation actions MOBILITY -6 and 15 would strategically expand the city's bicycle infrastructure to provide practical and safe connections between land uses. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa would supply alternative modes of transportation through city infrastructure as well as provide incentives to maximize the effectiveness of these developments. The PLAN Hermosa goals, programs, and policies discussed above would reduce mobile source operational emissions throughout the city. As a result, total emissions associated with daily operational activities would remain below SCAQMD thresholds of significance, as shown in Table 4.2-2. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa's operational emissions would be considered less than significant. As discussed above, emissions presented in Table 4.2-2 take into account policies which would reduce vehicle traffic and related emissions within the city. With regard to stationary (non-mobile) sources, new projects would be required to comply with the California Green Building Standards (CALGreen) Code, which would increase energy efficiency and reduce water usage. As a result, emissions resulting from energy and water usage would be reduced. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-16 • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY IMPACT 4.2-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Create or Contribute to CO Hot Spots That Could Result In a Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase of Any Criteria Pollutant for Which the Region Is Nonattainment? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would reduce vehicle traffic to existing roadways, which could reduce the potential for CO hot spots. Traffic volumes anticipated at intersections throughout the city with implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not be large enough to cause a CO hot spot, resulting in a less than significant impact. Carbon monoxide concentration is a direct function of motor vehicle activity (e.g., idling time and traffic flow conditions), particularly during peak commute hours, and meteorological conditions. Under specific meteorological conditions (e.g., stable conditions that result in poor dispersion), CO concentrations may reach unhealthy levels at local sensitive land uses such as residential areas, schools, and hospitals. As a result, the SCAQMD recommends analyzing carbon monoxide emissions at a local as well as a regional level. A CO hot spot is an area of localized carbon monoxide pollution that is caused by severe vehicle congestion on major roadways, typically near intersections. The SCAQMD requires a microscale CO hot -spot analysis against the 1 -hour and 8 -hour ambient air quality standards for carbon monoxide when a project increases the volume -to -capacity ratio by 2 percent for any intersection with an existing level of service (LOS) D or worse. The PLAN Hermosa traffic analysis (see Section 4.14, Transportation) indicates that one signalized intersection would operate at LOS E in 2040. Therefore, further investigation of potential CO impacts is warranted. A detailed CO analysis was conducted during the preparation of the SCAQMD's 2003 Air Quality Management Plan. The locations selected for microscale modeling in the 2003 AQMP included high average daily traffic (ADT) intersections in the air basin, those which would be expected to experience the highest CO concentrations. The highest CO concentration observed was at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Veteran Avenue on the west side of Los Angeles near Interstate 405. The concentration of CO at this intersection was 4.6 parts per million (ppm), which is well below the 35 -ppm 1 -hour CO federal standard. The Wilshire Boulevard/Veteran Avenue intersection has an ADT of approximately 100,000 vehicles per day. The PLAN Hermosa traffic analysis demonstrates that three of the studied intersections would operate at LOS E in 2040. However, only one of these intersections is signalized. The highest total intersection ADT for any of these intersections would be about 35,700 vehicles at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard, which is less than 100,000 vehicles per day. Furthermore, due to stricter vehicle emissions standards in newer cars, new technology, and increased fuel economy, CARB has indicated that future CO emission factors under future land use conditions (year 2040) would be lower than those under existing conditions. Thus, project - generated local mobile -source CO emissions would not result in or substantially contribute to concentrations that exceed the 1 -hour or 8 -hour ambient air quality standards for carbon monoxide. Because the number of vehicles traveling through the Pacific Coast Highway/Aviation Boulevard intersection is less than 100,000 vehicles per day, local mobile - source CO emissions would not exceed the 1 -hour or 8 -hour CO standard. As a result, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.2-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant Concentrations? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-17 4.2 AIR QUALITY development and reuse projects in Hermosa Beach in a manner that would potentially generate additional diesel vehicle traffic and diesel stationary sources within the city. This impact would be less than significant. Subsequent land use activities associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa could potentially include short-term construction sources and long-term operational sources of TACs, including stationary and mobile sources. Short -Term Construction Sources Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in the potential construction of a variety of projects. This construction would result in short-term emissions of diesel PM, which CARB identifies as a toxic air contaminant. Construction would result in the generation of diesel PM emissions from the use of off-road diesel equipment required for site grading and excavation, paving, and other construction activities. The amount to which the receptors are exposed (a function of concentration and duration of exposure) is the primary factor used to determine health risk (i.e., potential exposure to TAC emission levels that exceed applicable standards). Health-related risks associated with diesel -exhaust emissions are primarily linked to long-term exposure and the associated risk of contracting cancer. The calculation of cancer risk associated with exposure to TACs is typically based on a 70 -year period of exposure. The use of diesel -powered construction equipment, however, would be temporary and episodic and would occur over a relatively large area. For these reasons, diesel PM generated by construction activities, in and of itself, would not be expected to create conditions where the probability of contracting cancer is greater than 10 in 1 million for nearby receptors. Nevertheless, construction emissions are regulated by the SCAQMD, which has developed localized significance thresholds (LSTs) for several emissions generated at construction sites (see subsection 4.2.2, Environmental Setting), including PM2.5, produced when diesel fuel is burned. LSTs represent the maximum emissions at a construction site that are not expected to cause or contribute to an exceedance of the most stringent national or state ambient air quality standards. LSTs are based on the ambient concentrations of that pollutant within the project source receptor area (SRA), as demarcated by the SCAQMD, and the distance to the nearest sensitive receptor. LST analysis for construction is applicable for all projects that disturb 5 acres of land and less in a single day. Future construction activities under PLAN Hermosa would be required to meet SCAQMD thresholds or to implement mitigation. Examples of feasible mitigation to address short-term construction sources of TACs include, but are not limited to, the requirement to keep all construction equipment in proper tune in accordance with manufacturers' specifications, the use of late -model heavy-duty diesel -powered equipment during construction to the extent that it is readily available, the use of diesel -powered equipment that has been retrofitted with after -treatment products (e.g., engine catalysts), and the use of alternative -fuel construction equipment (i.e., compressed natural gas, liquid petroleum gas, and unleaded gasoline) to the extent that the equipment is readily available. Long -Term Mobile Sources In April 2005, CARB released the Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective, which offers guidance on siting sensitive land uses in proximity to sources of air toxics. Sensitive land uses identified in the handbook include residential communities, schools and schoolyards, day-care centers, parks and playgrounds, hospitals, and medical facilities. In terms of mobile source emissions of toxic air contaminants, CARB has provided guidelines to help determine appropriate land uses near heavily traveled roadways. The CARB guidelines indicate that siting new sensitive land uses within 500 feet of a freeway, urban roads with 100,000 vehicle trips per day (VTD), or rural roads with 50,000 VTD should be avoided when possible. None of the City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-18 • 4.2 AIR QUALITY roadways in the city would exceed these daily vehicle trips. As shown in Table 4.14-13 in Section 4.14, Transportation, the roadway with the highest existing daily vehicle trips is Pacific Coast Highway at 51,437 VTD. In Hermosa Beach, Pacific Coast Highway is considered an urban arterial roadway which, based on CARB guidelines, would need 100,000 VTD to exceed the TAC threshold. In any case, new sources of toxic air contaminants and/or other criteria air pollutants would be mitigated to the maximum extent possible. Governance Element Policy 7.5 requires the evaluation and disclosure (e.g., health checklists, health impact assessments) of health impacts or benefits for all discretionary projects. Most of the pollutant emissions in the Hermosa Beach area are attributable to mobile sources (construction and on -road) such as major roadways like Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard located along the northern boundary. Furthermore, mobile sources of TACs in the city would be reduced through various PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element and Land Use + Design Element policies, including minimizing truck impacts through the city (Mobility Element Policy 8.1), discouraging excessive idling by commercial vehicles (Mobility Element Policy 8.2), and a consideration to prohibit mobile advertising (Mobility Element Policy 8.6). In addition, the policies described above in Impact 4.2-2 to reduce mobile source emissions and construction emissions would reduce diesel PM emissions from PLAN Hermosa's planned land uses. Furthermore, statewide efforts such as CARB's On -Road Heavy -Duty Diesel Vehicles (In Use) Regulation requires diesel trucks and buses that operate in California to be upgraded to reduce emissions. Heavier trucks were required to be retrofitted with particulate matter filters beginning January 1, 2012, and the State requires replacement of older trucks, starting January 1, 2015. By January 1, 2023, nearly all trucks and buses will need to have 2010 model year engines or equivalent. The regulation applies to nearly all privately and federally owned diesel -fueled trucks and buses, as well as to privately and publicly owned school buses with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 14,000 pounds. Because of these types of regulations, including additional EPA -mandated controls (cleaner vehicles, cleaner fuels, and cleaner engines), mobile source air toxics (MSATs), which are the primary source of TACs, are now predicted by the Federal Highway Administration (2012) to decrease by 83 percent from 2010 to 2050 (2012). Long -Term Stationary Sources Based on the PLAN Hermosa Land Use Map, only two areas of the city, Creative Light Industrial and Service Commercial, are designated for uses that could contain new or expanded stationary TAC sources, including gasoline dispensing stations. Gasoline dispensing stations are a source of gasoline vapors, which include TACs such as benzene, methyl tertiary -butyl ether, toluene, and xylene. Benzene is the primary TAC associated with gas stations. Gasoline vapors are released during the filling of stationary underground storage tanks and during the transfer from those underground tanks to individual vehicles. The SCAQMD has stringent requirements for the control of gasoline vapor emissions from gasoline -dispensing facilities. SCAQMD Rule 461 (Gasoline Transfer and Dispensing) limits emissions of organic compounds from gasoline dispensing facilities. Rule 461 prohibits the transfer or allowance of the transfer of gasoline into stationary tanks at a gasoline dispensing facility unless a CARB-certified Phase I vapor recovery system is used, and further prohibits the transfer or allowance of the transfer of gasoline from stationary tanks into motor vehicle fuel tanks at a gasoline dispensing facility unless a CARB-certified Phase II vapor recovery system is used during each transfer. Vapor recovery systems collect gasoline vapors that would otherwise escape into the air during bulk fuel delivery (Phase I) or fuel storage and vehicle refueling (Phase II). Phase I vapor recovery system components include the couplers that connect tanker trucks to the underground tanks, spill containment drain valves, overfill prevention devices, and vent City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-19 4.2 AIR QUALITY pressure/vacuum valves. Phase II vapor recovery system components include gasoline dispensers, nozzles, piping, breakaway hoses, faceplates, vapor processors, and system monitors. Rule 461 also requires fuel storage tanks to be equipped with a permanent submerged fill pipe tank that prevents the escape of gasoline vapors. In addition, all gasoline must be stored underground with valves installed on the tank vent pipes to further control gasoline emissions. Gasoline dispensing facilities are also regulated by SCAQMD Rule 1401 (New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants), which provides for the review of TAC emissions in order to evaluate potential public exposure and health risk, to mitigate potentially significant health risks resulting from these exposures, and to provide net health risk benefits by improving the level of control when existing sources are modified or replaced. Pursuant to SCAQMD Rule 1401, stationary sources having the potential to emit TACs, including gas stations, are required to obtain permits from the SCAQMD. Permits may be granted to these operations provided they are operated in accordance with applicable SCAQMD rules and regulations. The SCAQMD's permitting procedures require substantial control of emissions, and permits are not issued unless TAC risk screening or TAC risk assessment can show that risks are not significant. The SCAQMD may impose limits on annual throughput to ensure risks are within acceptable limits. (In addition, California has statewide limits on the benzene content in gasoline, which greatly reduces the toxic potential of gasoline emissions.) Under Rule 1401, the following requirements must be met before a permit is granted to the proposed gasoline station component of a project: • The cumulative increase from all TACs emitted from a single piece of equipment in maximum individual cancer risk (MICR) shall not exceed: - One in one million (1 x 10-6) if Best Available Control Technology for Toxics (T-BACT) is not used; or - Ten in one million (10 x 10-6) if T-BACT is used. • The cumulative cancer burden from all TACs emitted from a single piece of equipment (increase in cancer cases in the population) shall not exceed 0.5. • Neither the chronic hazard index (HIC), the 8 -hour chronic hazard index (HIC8), nor the total acute hazard index (HIA) from all TACs emitted from a single piece of equipment shall exceed 1.0 for any target organ system, or an alternate hazard index level deemed to be safe. According to the SCAQMD (2014), there are currently about 3,140 retail gasoline stations in the South Coast Air Basin. The SCAQMD has conducted an industry -wide health risk assessment for these retail gasoline stations using dispersion modeling. According to this assessment, 91 percent of the gasoline stations were demonstrated to generate a health risk within the acceptable threshold and 9 percent of the stations have risks above the threshold. Approximately half of the 9 percent of gasoline stations in the South Coast Air Basin with risks above the health risk threshold were established prior to SCAQMD Rule 1401, adopted in 1990, and thus were not subject to the TAC limitations required by this rule (SCAQMD 2014). The SCAQMD has developed screening health risk tables for a generic retail gasoline service station. The modeled stations are assumed to have Phase I and Phase II vapor recovery systems and calculate for cancer risk accounting for the meteorological conditions of different locations throughout the South Coast Air Basin. Cancer risks from any future proposed gasoline service station in Hermosa Beach can be estimated from the SCAQMD screening tables. The issuance of SCAQMD air quality permits and compliance with all SCAQMD, state, and federal regulations regarding stationary TACs, including gasoline dispensing stations and other stationary sources, reduce potential stationary sources of TAC emissions such that sensitive receptors in the city would not be exposed to substantial air pollutant concentrations. The City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-20 • • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY SCAQMD limits public exposure to toxic air contaminants through a number of programs. The SCAQMD reviews the potential for TAC emissions from new and modified stationary sources through the SCAQMD permitting process for stationary sources. TAC emissions from existing stationary sources are limited by: 1) SCAQMD Rule 1401, which requires that construction or reconstruction of a major stationary source emitting hazardous air pollutants listed in Section 112(b) of the Clean Air Act be constructed with Best Available Control Technology and comply with all other applicable requirements. 2) Implementation of the Air Toxics "Hot Spot" (AB 2588) program as described in the Regulatory Setting subsection above. 3) Implementation of the federal Title III Toxics program. Facilities and equipment that require permits from the SCAQMD are screened from risks from toxic emissions and can be required to install Toxic Best Available Control Technology (T-BACT) to reduce the risks to below significant if deemed necessary by the SCAQMD. T-BACTs are the most up-to-date methods, systems, techniques, and production processes available to achieve the greatest feasible emission reductions for toxic air contaminants. In addition to these requirements, PLAN Hermosa contains several policies that protect city residents from toxic air pollution. Governance Element Policy 7.5. requires an evaluation and disclosure (e.g., health checklists, health impact assessments) of health impacts or benefits for all major discretionary projects. Land Use and Design Element Policy 1.7 ensures the placement of new uses does not create or exacerbate nuisances between different types of land uses, and Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.1 seeks to improve overall respiratory health for residents through regulation of stationary and mobile sources of air pollution, as feasible. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.2-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Create Objectionable Odors Affecting a Substantial Number of People? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could generate odors or expose existing receptors to odors. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and programs and compliance with SCAQMD rules and regulations would result in a less than significant impact. The occurrence and severity of odor impacts depends on numerous factors including the nature, frequency, and intensity of the source; wind speed and direction; and the sensitivity of the receptors. While offensive odors rarely cause physical harm, they can be very unpleasant, leading to considerable distress among the public and often generating complaints to local governments and regulatory agencies. Projects with the potential to frequently expose individuals to objectionable odors would be deemed to have a significant impact. Typical facilities that generate odors include wastewater treatment facilities, sanitary landfills, composting facilities, petroleum refineries, chemical manufacturing plants, and food processing facilities, among others. However, food service, retail, and/or or residential land uses could also generate substantial odor sources from improper garbage disposal. Hermosa Beach does not contain any large sources of odors. SCAQMD Rule 402 (Nuisance) would prohibit any land use (except agricultural land uses) from generating odors that "endanger the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such persons of the public" (SCAQMD • City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-21 4.2 AIR QUALITY 1976). Agricultural land uses are not permitted within the incorporated city and therefore would not generate substantial odors in Hermosa Beach. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa and compliance with SCAQMD rules and regulations would ensure that a substantial number of receptors are not exposed to substantial odor emissions. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES Although air quality emissions associated with PLAN Hermosa would be compared with SCAQMD thresholds of significance on a project -by -project basis, these emissions also cumulatively contribute to the air quality in the basin. Therefore, the cumulative context for air quality is the South Coast Air Basin. Certain localized pollutants such as CO, PMio, PM2.5, and TACs have a cumulative context of the surrounding land uses and emission sources where they would be emitted. The localized cumulative effect of these localized pollutants is important to consider when evaluating impacts on sensitive receptors. IMPACT 4.2-7 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Air Quality Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of air quality emissions occurring within the basin and affect the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. This would result in a cumulatively considerable impact. Construction Emissions As discussed previously, construction air quality emissions would result in a significant and unavoidable impact. This, in combination with other new construction projects in the SCAQMD region, would add to a cumulative effect on air quality pollutant levels in the area. While construction air quality emissions are generally short term, as they only occur during the construction of a project, because the intensity and schedule of construction activities cannot be determined, it would be speculative to conclude that any level of mitigation would reduce daily construction emissions below the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e would reduce the potential for air quality impacts. However, as stated previously, in many cases, because of the amount of construction required for a project, even if all feasible mitigation is implemented, daily emissions could still exceed the significance thresholds. In addition, the City would not have control over projects outside its boundaries and therefore could not require mitigation for air quality impacts for these projects. Because it has been determined that implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e would not reduce construction -related air quality impacts to a less than significant level, the various future projects would add to the cumulative air quality emissions from construction in the SCAQMD region. As such, this impact would be cumulatively considerable and significant and unavoidable. Operational Emissions Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would generate long-term operational emissions from a variety of proposed land uses. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa Sustainability + Conservation Element, Mobility Element, and Land Use + Design Element policies and programs would reduce mobile and area source emissions associated with operation of future land uses. Because these policies and programs affect a wide range of land use and transportation factors (e.g., City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-22 • • • 4.2 AIR QUALITY accessibility to transit, parking availability, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, distance from residential to commercial and employment uses), mobile source emissions could be substantially reduced. Daily operational emissions associated with the proposed land uses would remain below the SCAQMD's operational thresholds of significance. As shown in Table 4.2-2, daily operational emissions associated with PLAN Hermosa land uses would not exceed SCAQMD thresholds of significance. As discussed in Impact 4.2-4, the PLAN Hermosa traffic analysis (see Section 4.14, Transportation) indicates that one signalized intersection in the city would operate at LOS E in 2040, and similar conditions would be expected at other intersections throughout the region. No area in the SCAQMD region has exceeded the NAAQS for carbon monoxide since 2003 (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). Furthermore, emissions in the future would decrease due to the turnover in vehicle fleets and emissions technology, which is documented in the CARB mobile source emissions model EMFAC2014. Considering this information, it is not anticipated that implementation of PLAN Hermosa would cause a cumulatively considerable contribution to potential CO hot spots in the city or the region. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would contribute TAC emissions in the city from mobile, area, and stationary sources associated with proposed land uses. PLAN Hermosa focuses on infill projects and siting residential and commercial land use in proximity to each other to allow non - motorized trips for shopping, work, and recreational trips. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element Policies 8.1, 8.2, 8.5, and 8.6 would reduce TAC emissions from commercial vehicles by limiting idling and consider a prohibition on mobile advertising while encouraging better fuel efficiency and the use of technology that reduces air pollution. As discussed in Impact 4.2-5, CARB's Air Quality and Land Use Handbook identifies acceptable distances at which to place sensitive receptors from TAC sources. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would reduce future TAC emissions and avoid siting sensitive receptors near substantial TAC sources. For these reasons, it is not anticipated that PLAN Hermosa would cause a cumulatively considerable contribution to the exposure of sensitive receptors to TAC emissions. Therefore, impacts from operational air quality emissions would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures Implement mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e. Significance After Mitigation Even with the implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.2-2a through MM 4.2-2e, SCAQMD Rule 403, and PLAN Hermosa policies, it is still anticipated that future construction projects, in combination with other construction in the SCAQMD area, would have the potential to generate daily construction emissions that exceed the SCAQMD thresholds of significance. As such, construction -related cumulative air quality impacts would be cumulatively considerable and significant and unavoidable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-23 4.2 AIR QUALITY 4.2.5 REFERENCES CARB (California Air Resources Board). 2005. Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective. http://www.arb.ca.gov/ch/handbook.pdf. City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. Proposed E&B Oil Production Project Final Environmental Impact Report. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=4289. . 2017. PLAN Hermosa. Federal Highway Administration. 2012. Interim Guidance on MSATAnalysis in NEPA. Fehr & Peers. 2015. Draft Transportation Analysis Report: PLAN Hermosa General Plan. SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District). 1976. Rule 402, Nuisance. Accessed March 27, 2012. http://agmd.gov/rules/reg/reg04/r402.pdf. 2007. Final 2007 Air Quality Management Plan: Executive Summary. Accessed May 31, 2012. http://aqmd.gov/agmp/07agmp/aqmp/Executive_Summary.pdf. . 2013. Final 2012 Air Quality Management Plan. http://www.agmd.gov/home/library/clean-air-plans/air-quality-mgt-plan/final-2012-air- quality-management-plan. 2014. Website: Retail Gasoline Dispensing Facilities. http://www.agmd.gov/home/regulations/compliance/toxic-hot-spots-ab-2588/iws- facilities/iws-gas-station. . 2015. SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds. http://www.agmd.gov/docs/default- source/ceqa/handbook/scaqmd-air-quality-significance-thresholds.pdf?sfvrsn=2 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2-24 • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.3.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to biological resources associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes a review of special -status species, sensitive habitats, wetlands, wildlife movement, and planning efforts associated with biological resources. Policies and implementation actions presented in the PLAN Hermosa Parks + Open Space Element intend to protect coastal and marine habitat resources by protecting and restoring these spaces that are fundamental components of Hermosa Beach's environment. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing biological resources concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (TBR) and other publicly available documents. The TBR is included as Appendix C. 4.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-6 describes the vegetation, habitat, and wildlife in the planning area, including special -status species, sensitive habitats, and wetlands. A summary of that information is presented below. Vegetative Communities: The vegetative communities in the city include urban/developed, beach sand, and non-native/ornamental. Urban/developed land uses encompass the majority of the planning area. Urban/developed communities are classified as areas that have been heavily modified by humans, including roadways, existing buildings, and structures, as well as recreation fields, small parks, lawns, and other landscaped vegetation. Non-native/ornamental areas in the planning area include the Greenbelt, South Park, Valley Park, and a hillside west of the Marineland Mobilehome Park that runs northward through several residential parcels to 24th Street. These areas could be considered urban cover as they largely comprise non-native landscaped vegetation; however, CaIVEG classifies them as non- native/ornamental. For the purposes of the TBR, they are separate from the urban/developed cover type. The entire length of the coastline in the planning area is characterized by sandy beach habitat, the beach sand habitat referenced above. This habitat is typically found between the intertidal zone and areas where vegetation becomes established, often forming dunes. These communities are described below and shown in Figure 4.3-1 (Vegetative Communities). Table 4.3-1 (Acreages of Vegetative Communities within the Coastal and Inland Zones) summarizes the acreages of each vegetative community within the Coastal Zone and the inland portion of the city. Special -Status Plants: Based on the results of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) database searches of sensitive natural resources, the presence of special -status plants is highly unlikely. This is due to the extirpation or high modification of natural habitats in Hermosa Beach. The open space areas are routinely landscaped and frequented by human traffic. The beach is extremely disturbed, and no vegetated dune habitat remains. Figure 4.3-2 (Previously Recorded Occurrences of Special - Status Species) illustrates the special -status plants with the potential to occur in the planning area. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-1 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.3-1 ACREAGES OF VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE COASTAL AND INLAND ZONES Zone Vegetative Community Area (acres) Coastal Urban/Developed 343 Beach Sand 57 Non-Native/Ornamental 19 Total 419 Inland Urban/Developed 479 Non-Native/Ornamental 18 Total 497 Source: City of Hermosa Beach Special -Status Wildlife: Based on the database search results, two wildlife species have the potential to occur within the planning area. The California least tern (Sterna antillarum-bowni) is a federally endangered species and is state -listed as endangered. This species is a summer visitor that breeds along the Southern California coast from April to September. California least terns nest in colonies on beaches or islands cleared of vegetation (USFWS 2006). The nearest breeding colonies to the planning area are in Venice Beach and at the Port of Los Angeles (USFWS 2006). There are no records of this species nesting in the planning area; however, California least terns likely forage offshore. The western snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) is a federally endangered species and a California species of special concern. Western snowy plover habitat is known to occur in Hermosa Beach. The habitat subunit stretches roughly 0.5 mile from 11th Street southward to 1st Street and totals approximately 27 acres. This subunit supports wintering flocks of snowy plover (USFWS 2012). Two special -status wildlife species (California least tern and western snowy plover) have the potential to occur in the beach habitats in the planning area, as shown in Table 4.3-3 (Special - Status Wildlife Species with Potential to Occur Within and Surrounding the Planning Area) and Figure 4.3-2. Marine Wildlife: Offshore resources of Santa Monica Bay include a rich diversity of migratory and resident species of mammals, birds, fishes, and invertebrates. Common coastal seabirds found foraging near the shore of Hermosa Beach include western (Aechmorphorus occidentalis) and Clark's grebes (A. clarkii), cormorants (Phalacrocorax spp.), loons (Gavia spp.), California brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis), and gulls. Coastal birds are at their highest densities during the winter months. Mammal species found in the area include various cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), and sea otters. All marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Beach Sand and Intertidal Zone: Sandy beach habitat is typically found between the intertidal zone, the area between the low tide and high tide marks, and the area where terrestrial vegetation cover is established. Sandy beach habitats can often form dunes, which are hills of sand constructed either through aeolian (wind) or alluvial (water) transport. The beach habitat is heavily used for recreation and primarily barren, except for man-made structures such as nearby lifeguard towers or volleyball courts. Occasionally kelp wrack collects on the beach, which is then removed by tractor. Beached kelp wrack can provide a food source for invertebrates and provides cover for numerous organisms that inhabit the sand of the intertidal zone. These organisms in turn act as a food source for, and attract, various species of shorebirds such as sanderling (Calidris alba), western sandpiper (Calidris maudi), least sandpiper (Calidris minutilla), and willet (Tringa semipalmata), as well as various species of gull (Larus spp.). The beach may also provide habitat for special -status species. The state and federally listed western snowy plover is PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-2 • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES known to winter on the shores of the city, though nesting within the city has not been recorded since 1949. The nearest breeding colony to Hermosa Beach is located at Bolsa Chico in Orange County (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). The intertidal zone plays an important role in coastal ecology, and sand beaches are among the most extensive coastal habitats. Sand beaches and the organisms that utilize them are subjected to a wide variety of physical instability, causing this habitat to generally be less diverse than other environments, but the beaches provide foraging and breeding habitat for a variety of species including shorebirds. Organisms occupying intertidal sand beaches are usually limited by abiotic factors such as tidal height, exposure to wave action, and the composition of the sediment. Dominant species include amphipods (Synchelidium spp.), polychaete worms (Nerine cirratulus and Euzonus mucronata), and isopods (Excirolana chiltoni). Zonation patterns for intertidal sand beach assemblages are less distinct than rocky intertidal communities. Small beach hoppers (Orchestoidea sp.) and kelp flies (Coelopa vanduzeei) are abundant in clumps of giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) cast up on the beach at the high tide line (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). Dominant fishes that use the intertidal zone include small active plankton feeders such as northern anchovy (Engrauiis mordax) and topsmelt (Atherinops affinis), roving substrate feeders such as the barred surfperch (Amphistichus argenteus), and flatfishes such as juvenile California halibut (Paralichthys californicus). Other fishes that migrate through the surf zone include yellowfin croaker (Umbrina roncador) and spotfin croaker (Roncador stearnsii), and beach spawners such as California grunion (Leuresthes tenuis) are also expected to occur (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). Sensitive Natural Communities: Two habitats (southern coastal bluff scrub and southern dune scrub) located in the planning area were identified in the CNDDB query as locally sensitive habitats. Southern coastal bluff scrub occurs south of the planning area along the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Southern dune scrub occurs north of the planning area in the El Segundo dunes. Neither habitat is present in or located adjacent to the planning area. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-3 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.3-1 VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES Vegetation Type Oea:h Develcped µ.mw hon•retrve /Ornamental PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.3-2 PREVIOUSLY RECORDED OCCURRENCES OF SPECIAL -STATUS SPECIES Legend 011:06 Oze urrene • Type �1oyr�'x'�st �..» :.'+save E22 k..e•tr'x�e Fkrt Paoi elho.ewest 1 Noor Common Now 1f.bM cwoi.li r tto i tr.• Plot ton 131%V..m ttRWn /N..T.a I%u... MNV .1I 1 .a130*v Mfe.n NW.%*sr?tx....[. wen. :r 7 1 }pwq.M Ow* VO N'1,1n1OW trYs A r, Mr... MCN l.''IY?MihMU Wt•41 fitlk.t' ia«4'. trnr+tMOQ'I 's...%tpgrr..yy tNitfM ON.. 1t.1MW f441.01,60.4 ?t 3 t rJr.rr...•e.rttnr r a,,, 11.. h $VT ✓!",.• 1170. t••••••,/t••••••,/.A.Y.nrA .M... 1 ff•..... r..”••.M.n..Ne •1 - r3, ` lerstmfr L.aro—r• moue t ene %trip J I • •.oc•.N.. trwSMyww.q rm. f. V. %. p....1 0.4.0 1111nv."..4 M.n.. 4: 110.mr4 Moir% 1. wt. Rr rMne.• 0.04.10 Ws,. :1111 1. onoomm' Inn ..m. e.....4 t tine M.nr %�..v 3 *Porn rrtr•^en.•.• t.47.0., 4:rl '.w.r$ 4 r' kr 0144 r.CW.IP, rM'•ne %PM City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.3-5 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.3-2 SPECIAL -STATUS PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR WITHIN AND SURROUNDING THE PLANNING AREA Species Status USFWS/ CDFW/CNPS Habitat and Blooming Time Potential for Occurrence aphanisma Aphanisma blitoides —/—/16.2 Sandy soils in coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, and coastal scrub. Elev 3-1,000 ft. (1-305 m.) Blooms: March -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. Ventura Marsh milk -vetch Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus FE/SE/1B.1 Coastal dunes, coastal scrub, and the edges of coast salt or brackish marshes and swamps. Elev. 3-115 ft (1-35 m.) Blooms: June -Oct Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. alkali milk -vetch Astragalus tener var. tener —/—/1B.2 Alkaline soils. Playas, valley and foothill grassland (adobe clay), and vernal pools. Elev: 3-197 ft. (1-60 m.) Blooms: March -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. South Coast saltscale_ Atriplexpacifica / /16'2 Playas, coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, and coastal scrub. Elev: 0-459 ft. (0-140 m.) Blooms: March -Oct Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. Parish's brittlescale Atriplex parishii —/—/1B.1 Alkaline soils in playas, vernal pools and chenopod scrub. Elev: 82-6,233 ft (25-1900 m.) Blooms: June O Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. southern tarplant Centromadia parryi ssp. australis —/—/1B.1 Vernally mesic valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools, and the margins of marshes and swamps. Elev: 0-1,575 ft. (0-480 m.) Blooms: May -Nov. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Orcutt's pincushion Chaenadis glabriuscula var. orcuttiana —/—/1B.1 Sandy coastal bluff scrub and coastal dunes. Elev: 0- 328 ft. (0-100 m.) Blooms: Jan. -Aug. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. coastal goosefoot_ Chenopodium littoreum /16'2 Coastal dunes. Elev: 33-98 ft. (10-30 m.) Blooms: April- Aug. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. San Fernando Valley spineflower Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina FC/SE/16.1 Sandy coastal scrub, and valley and foothill grassland. Elev:492-4,003 ft. (150-1,220 m.) Blooms: April -July Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. beach spectaclepod Dithyrea maritima —/ST/113.1(3-50 Coastal dunes and sandy coastal scrub. Elev: 10-164 ft. m.) Blooms: March -May Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. many stemmed dudleya Dudleya multicaulis —/—/1B.2 Often on clay soil in chaparral, coastal scrub, and valley and foothill grassland. Elev: 49-2,592 ft. (15-790 m.) Blooms: April -July Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-6 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Species Status USFWS/ CDFW/CNPS Habitat and Blooming Time Potential for Occurrence island green dudleya Dudleya vireos ssp. insularis --/—/16.2 Rocky substrates in coastal bluff scrub and coastal scrub. Elev: 16-984 ft. (5-300 m.) Blooms: April -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is P present within the planning area. island wallflower Erysimum insulare /—/1B 3 Coastal bluff scrub and coastal dunes. Elev: 0-984 ft. (0-300 m.) Blooms: March -July Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. Coulter's yellow goldfields Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri —/—/1B.1 Coastal salt marshes and swamps, playas and vernal P P y pools. Elev: 3-4,003 ft. (1-1,220 m.) Blooms: Feb. -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is P present within the planning area. sea dahlia Le tos ne maritime p y _ _ / /2B.2 Coastal bluff scrub and coastal dunes. Elev: 16-492 ft. (5-150 m.) Blooms: March -May Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. spreading navarettia P g Navarretia fossalis FT/—/1B.1 Assorted shallow freshwater marshes and swamps, and chenopod scrub, playas and vernal pools. Elev: 98 2,149 ft. (30-655 m.) Blooms: April -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is P present within the planning area. prostrate vernal pool navarettia Navarretia prostrate —/—/1B.1 Mesic areas in coastal scrub, meadows and seeps, vernal pools, and alkaline valley and foothill grasslands. Elev: 49-3,970 ft. (15-1,210 m.) Blooms: April -July Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. California Orcutt grass Orcuttia californica FE/SE/1B.1 Vernal pools. Elev: 49-2,165 ft. (15-660 m.) Blooms: April -Aug. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Brand's star phacelia Phacelia stellaris FC/ /1B.1 Coastal dunes and coastal scrub. Elev: 3-1,312 ft. (1- 400 m.) Blooms: March -June Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Sandy coastline is unvegetated and routinely disturbed. Ballona cinquefoil_ Potentilla multijuga g —/ /lA Brackish meadows and seeps. Elev: 0-6 ft. (0-2 m.) Blooms: June -Aug. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. estuary seablight Suaeda esteroa / /16'2 Coastal salt marshes and swamps. Elev: 0-16 ft. (0-5 m.) Blooms: May -Jan. Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. KEY Federal & State Status CNPS Rare Plant Rank (FE) Federal Endangered Rareness Ranks (FT) Federal Threatened (1A) Presumed Extinct in California (FC) Federal Candidate (1B) Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California or elsewhere (SE) State Endangered (2) Rare, Threatened, or Endangered, but more common elsewhere (ST) State Threatened Threat Ranks (SSC) State Species of Special Concern Seriously threatened in California Fairly threatened in California Not very threatened in California City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.3-7 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.3-3 SPECIAL -STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR WITHIN AND SURROUNDING THE PLANNING AREA Species Status USFWS/ CDFW Habitat Potential for Occurrence Invertebrates vernal pool fairy shrimpFT/—Found Branchinecta lynchi only in vernal pools and vernal pool like habitats (USFWS 2005). Not expected to occur: No vernal pool habitat is present within the planning area. • fairySmall, San Diego shrimp San Di ine ta sandiegonensis FE/— shallow vernal pools. Occasionally occur in ditches and road ruts with suitable conditions. Have never been found in permanent waterBra bodies (USFWS 1998a). Not expected to occur: No vernal pool habitat is present within the planning area. El Segundo blue butterflyFE/— Euphilotes battoidea allyni Known only from the El Segundo sand dunes. Dependent on food plant, coast buckwheat (Eriogonum parvifolium) (USFWS 1998b). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Planning area is outside species range. Palos Verdes blue butterfly Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis FE/— Require one of two larval host plants: coast locoweed (Astragalus trichopodus lonchus) or deerweed (Acmispon glaber). Found in coastal sage scrub habitat (USFWS 2014c). Not expected to occur: No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Coastal sage scrub habitat has been extirpated from the planning area. Amphibians California red -legged frog Rana draytonii FT/SSC Ponds/streams in humid forests, woodlands, grasslands, coastal scrub, and streamsides with plant cover in lowlands or foothills. Breeding habitat = permanent or ephemeral water sources; lakes, ponds, reservoirs, slow streams, marshes, bogs, and swamps. Ephemeral wetland habitats require animal burrows or other moist refuges for estivation when the wetlands are dry. From sea level to 5,000 ft. (1,525 m.) (Nafis 2014). Not expected to occur: No suitable aquatic breeding habitat is present within the planning area. Reptiles coast homed lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii —/SSC Occur in valley -foothill hardwood, conifer and riparian habitats, as well as in pine -cypress, juniper and annual grassland habitats. Range up to 4,000 feet (1,219 m) in the Sierra Nevada foothills, and up to 6,000 feet (1,800 m in the mountains of southern California (CDFW 2014b). Not expected to occur: No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Birds tricolored blackbird Agelaius tricolor -/SSC Dominant nest substrate species includes cattails, bulrushes, Himalayan berry, agricultural silage. Dense vegetation is preferred but heavily lodged cattails not burned in recent years may preclude settlement. Need access to open water. Strips of emergent vegetation along canals are avoided as nest sites unless they are about 10 or more meters wide but in some ponds, especially where associated with Himalayan blackberries and deep water, settlement may be in narrower fetches of cattails. If sites are hard for an observer to reach, the site it is relatively suitable (Hamilton 2004). Not expected to occur: No wetland habitat is present within the planning area. western snowy plover Charadrius nivosus ssp. nivosus FT/SSC Barren to sparsely vegetated sand beaches, dry salt flats in lagoons, dredge spoils deposited on beach or dune habitat, levees and flats at Known to occur. Occupied designated critical habitat subunit on Hermosa Beach. Beach is wintering habitat however, no nesting birds have been recorded since 1949 (USFWS 2007). PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report • 4.3-8 • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Species Status USFWS/ CDFW Habitat Potential for Occurrence (ST) State Threatened (FC) Federal Candidate salt -evaporation ponds, river bars, along alkaline or saline lakes, reservoirs, and ponds (Comell 2014). southwestem willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus FE/SE Dense riparian forest and scrub habitats associated with rivers, swamps, wetlands, lakes and reservoirs (USFWS 2002). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Califomia black rail Laterallusjamaicensis coturniculus —/ST Yearlong resident of saline, brackish, and fresh emergent wetlands. Occurs most commonly in tidal emergent wetlands dominated by pickleweed or in brackish marshes supporting bulrushes, cattails and saltgrass (CDFW 2014b). Not expected to occur. No wetland habitat is present within the planning area. coastal Califomia gnatcatcher coastal to californico californica PAngeles, FT/SSC Scrub -dominated plant communities, strongly associated with coastal scrub, sage scrub, and coastal succulent scrub communities. Distribution ranges from southern Ventura County down through Los Orange, Riverside, San Bemardino, and San Diego counties (USFWS 2010). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Coastal sage scrub habitat has been extirpated from the planning area. light-footed clapper rail Ralfus longirostris levipes FE/SE Coastal salt marshes, lagoons, and their maritime environs. Require shallow water and mudflats for foraging, with adjacent higher vegetation for cover during high tide (USFWS 2009). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Califomia least tem Sternula antillarum browni FE/SE Nest and roost in colonies on open beaches, forage near shore ocean waters and in shallow estuaries and lagoons (USFWS 2006). May occur. Suitable nesting habitat present on the beach; however, no historical records of nesting in the planning area. Nearest breeding colonies are at the Port of Los Angeles and Venice Beach (USFWS 2006). May forage in offshore waters. least Bell's vireo Vireo bellii pusillus FE/SE Obligate riparian breeder. Cottonwood willow, oak woodlands, and mule fat scrub along watercourses (Kus 2002). Not expected to occur. No riparian habitat is present within the planning area. Mammals westem mastiff bat Eumops perotis californicus /SSC Open, semi -arid to arid habitats, including conifer and deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, annual and perennial grasslands, palm oases, chaparral, and desert scrub. Roosts in crevices on vertical cliff faces, high buildings, trees, and tunnels (CDFW 2014b). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. Pacific pocket mouse Perognathus longimembris pacificus FE/SSC Found predominantly on sandy substrates in coastal sage scrub, coastal strand, coastal dune, and river alluvium, on marine terraces within 2.5 miles of the ocean (USFWS 1998c). Not expected to occur. No suitable habitat is present within the planning area. No records of this species in Los Angeles County since 1938. Closest known population is at Dana Point in Orange County (USFWS 1998c). Key to State & Federal Status (FE) Federal Endangered (SE) State Endangered (FT) Federal Threaten (ST) State Threatened (FC) Federal Candidate (SSC) State Candidate City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.3-9 PLAN Hermosa Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.3.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to biological resources, including special -status species and habitat, in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework to address all aspects of biological resources that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for biological resources is discussed in detail in Appendix C-6. FEDERAL • Endangered Species Act: The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA), as amended, provides protective measures for federally listed threatened and endangered species, including their habitats, from unlawful take (16 United States Code [USC] Sections 1531- 1544). The ESA defines "take" to mean "harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct." Title 50, Part 222, of the Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR Section 222) further defines "harm" to include "an act which actually kills or injures fish or wildlife. Such acts may include habitat modification or degradation where it actually kills or injures fish or wildlife by significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns including feeding, spawning, rearing, migrating, feeding, or sheltering." • Clean Water Act: The basis of the Clean Water Act (CWA) was established in 1948; however, it was referred to as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The act was reorganized and expanded in 1972 (33 USC Section 1251), and at this time the Clean Water Act became the act's commonly used name. The basis of the CWA is the regulation of pollutant discharges into waters of the United States, as well as the establishment of surface water quality standards. • Migratory Bird Treaty Act: Migratory birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (16 USC Sections 703-711). The MBTA makes it unlawful to take, possess, buy, sell, purchase, or barter any migratory bird listed in 50 CFR Section 10, including feathers or other parts, nests, eggs, or products, except as allowed by implementing regulations (50 CFR Section 21). The majority of birds found in the vicinity of Hermosa Beach would be protected under the MBTA. • Marine Mammal Protection Act: Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Secretary of Commerce delegated the authority to protect all cetaceans and pinnipeds to the National Marine Fisheries Service. The Secretary of the Interior is responsible for protecting sea otters and delegated this authority to the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The act established a moratorium on the taking of marine mammals in waters under US jurisdiction. Under the act, "taking" includes hunting, capturing, and killing and attempting to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal. "Harassment" is defined as any act of pursuit, torment, or annoyance that has the potential to injure a marine mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild. • Coastal Zone Management Act: In accordance with the Coastal Zone Management Act and the Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990, all federal activities must be consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of each affected state's Coastal Zone Management program. The programs set forth policies and standards regarding public and private use of land and water in the Coastal Zone. STATE • California Endangered Species Act: The California Endangered Species Act (CESA) mandates that state agencies should not approve projects that would jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or threatened species if reasonable and prudent City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-10 • • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES alternatives are available. Take authorizations from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are required for any unavoidable impact on state -listed species resulting from proposed projects. • Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission: The Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission is an independent state organization devoted to restoring and protecting Santa Monica Bay and its resources. The State of California and the US Environmental Protection Agency established the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Project (SMBRP) as a National Estuary Program in December 1988. The SMBRP was formed to develop the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Plan to ensure the long-term health of the bay and its watershed. The primary mission of the SMBRP is to facilitate and oversee the implementation of the plan. • California Coastal Act of 1976: The California Coastal Act of 1976 and the California Coastal Commission, the state's coastal protection act and planning agency, were established by voter initiative in 1972 to plan for and regulate new development and to protect public access to and along the shoreline. The Coastal Act contains policies to guide local and state decision -makers in the management of coastal and marine resources. To provide maximum public access to the coast and public recreation areas, the Coastal Act directs each local government located within the Coastal Zone to prepare a Local Coastal Program (LCP) consistent with Section 30501 of the Coastal Act, in consultation with the Coastal Commission and with public participation. LOCAL • City of Hermosa Beach General Plan: The City's General Plan was last adopted in October 1979. Policies that relate to natural resources are included in the .Conservation and Open Space elements of the existing General Plan. Policies address preserving and enhancing open space areas, including the beach; prohibiting oil drilling on the beach or by offshore platform; and minimizing the effects of water runoff. • City of Hermosa Beach Local Coastal Program (LCP): An LCP consists of the Coastal Land Use Plan (general plan -level policies and maps) and a Local Implementation Program (coastal zoning code, zoning maps, and implementing ordinances). The City does not have a certified LCP. The Coastal Land Use Plan component, adopted by the City and certified by the California Coastal Commission in 1981, as amended, does not include policies or programs specifically related to biological resources. • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: Chapter 8.44 of the Municipal Code ensures the future health, safety, and general welfare of citizens of the city and the water quality of the receiving waters of the surrounding coastal areas. The chapter prohibits illicit discharges and connections, littering, disposal of landscape debris, non-stormwater discharges, and any discharges in violation of the Municipal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. Chapter 12.36 strives to preserve and protect trees in the public right-of-way (parkway). The chapter prohibits the planting, maintenance, damage, destruction, or removal of parkway trees. Chapter 12.36 also states that a permit is necessary for the removal of a parkway tree. Additionally, during construction projects, the project proponent must take all necessary precautions to protect parkway trees. 4.3.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, the impact analysis provided below is based on the following California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Appendix G thresholds of significance and impacts on biological resources are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa, would: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-11 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 1) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special -status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or the USFWS. 2) Have 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 CDFW or the USFWS. 3) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the CWA (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means. 4) 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. 5) Conflict with local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, including but not limited to Chapter 12.36 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code protecting certain trees. 6) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. There are no habitat conservation plans, natural community conservation plans, or other related plans for lands in the planning area. Therefore, there would be no impact related to conflict with provisions of such a plan, and this threshold is not discussed further in this resource section. ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. The following analysis of impacts on biological resources is qualitative and based on available habitat, limited field review, and species occurrence information for the planning area, along with a review of regional information. A significant impact would occur if a substantial degradation in the quality of the environment or reduction of habitat would occur that would eliminate or reduce the population of a sensitive species in the planning area. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area complies with all applicable laws, regulations, design standards, and plans. An analysis of cumulative impacts uses qualitative information for the planning area and the region. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address biological resources include the following: Policies Parks + Open Space Element • 9.1 Protect critical habitats. Preserve, protect, and improve remaining open space areas to the greatest extent possible to improve on existing limited habitats and prevent further elimination of species. • 9.2 Beach maintenance. Consider species and habitat impacts and potential improvements when implementing beach maintenance activities. • 9.3 Beach habitat. Ensure beaches can function as a quality habitat for permanent and migratory species. • 9.4 Coordinated habitat protection. Enhance information sharing and research regarding habitat and wildlife with resource agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure coordinated decision-making and management. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-12 • • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES • 9.5 Minimal activity impacts to habitat. Protect coastal and marine habitats from impacts from maintenance, construction, recreation, and industrial activities. • 9.6 Tree protection. Protect existing trees and tree copses that may provide temporary or permanent bird habitat and encourage replacement with specimen trees whenever they are lost or removed. • 10.1 Urban forest. Expand the urban forest and green spaces citywide on public and private property. • 10.2 Non-invasive landscapes. Encourage the planting of native, non-invasive, and drought -tolerant landscaping and trees, and encourage the planting of edible landscapes and fruit trees. • 10.3 Green space co -benefits. Recognize the many positive qualities provided by landscaping, trees, and green space including reduced heat gain, controlled stormwater runoff, absorbed noise, reduced soil erosion, improved aesthetic character, and absorption of air pollution. • 10.4 Scenic features. Ensure landscaping, trees, and green spaces on public property are designed to conserve scenic and natural features of Hermosa Beach. • 10.5 Park landscaping. Landscaping in parks located within the Coastal Zone shall consist of non-invasive and drought -tolerant plants. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -12. Create a checklist and resource guide comprising local, state, and federal requirements for the development of offshore renewable energy facilities to streamline permitting requirements and improve public awareness. • PARKS -21. Partner with local nonprofits such as the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission or the University of California, Los Angeles, to conduct education demonstration projects or presentations on coastal and marine habitat conservation. • PARKS -22. Evaluate existing beach conditions and identify areas that may be appropriate to restore vegetated dune habitat. Pursue grant funding. • PARKS -23. Review and revise as needed, the City's tree ordinance to ensure protection of existing parkway trees, and update the master tree list. • PARKS -24. Complete and maintain a citywide public tree inventory, including quantity, species type, diameter, condition, trimming strategies and geo-codes and recommendations. • PARKS -25. Maintain a list of approved plantings for trees and landscaping within City parkways. • PARKS -26. Amend the municipal code to incorporate tree removal and replacement requirements in the public right of way. If preservation of existing mature trees is not feasible, removed trees shall be replaced at a minimum 2:1 ratio either on-site, or elsewhere as prescribed by the City. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-13 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.3-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Have a Substantial Adverse Effect on Any Special -Status Species? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in the development or expansion of beach - supporting uses that could adversely affect western snowy plover and California least tern. This impact would be potentially significant. The city is largely built out with urban uses and does not support habitat suitable for special -status plant species, as shown in Table 4.3-2 and Figure 4.3-1. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa does not propose any land use changes that would convert existing open space areas to developed uses. Special -status plant species are not expected to occur because of the extirpation or modification of natural habitats in the planning area. In addition, beach areas are highly disturbed and no vegetated dune habitat remains. Therefore, no impacts on special -status plants species would occur. Two special -status wildlife species (California least tern and western snowy plover) have the potential to occur in the beach habitats in the planning area, as shown in Table 4.3-3 and Figure 4.3-2. Based on current and anticipated future extent of beach activity in the city (e.g., routine grooming, recreation, and patrolling), these species are expected to have a low potential of nesting. There are documented observations of the western snowy plover roosting at the beach during the winter adjacent to 19th and 22nd streets as well as from 26th to 28th streets (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). PLAN Hermosa would limit uses on the beach to structures that are essential to the safe operation and enjoyment of the beach (e.g., restrooms, playgrounds, stormwater facilities). The Parks + Open Space Element includes several policies that would assist in the protection of these species. In particular, Policies 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, and 9.6 would protect coastal and marine habitats from construction impacts and would protect trees and beaches so they can function as a quality habitat for permanent and migratory species. For instance, under Policy 9.4, the City would enhance information sharing and research regarding habitat and wildlife with resource agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure coordinated decision-making and management. Further, the Parks + Open Space Element would support restoring potentially suitable habitat for special -status species by pursuing grant funding to initiate a process to restore vegetated dune habitat in appropriate areas of the beach. However, the potential for impacts to these species is considered significant. Mitigation Measures MM 4.3-1 Construction of facilities on the beach that must occur between the months of April and August (roosting season for snowy plovers) will require preconstruction surveys to determine the presence of western snowy plovers or California least terns. If these species are present, no construction may occur until the species leave the roost based on review by a qualified biologist and consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). If the project is within a Special Protection Zone, construction activities will not be allowed until western snowy plovers are no longer present. If the area is not within a Special Protection Zone, a qualified biologist will survey the area for western snowy plovers using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if plovers are present. If they are present, no work will occur until after snowy plovers leave the roost site for the season. The qualified biologist will also survey the PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-14 • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES area for California least terns using established protocols and in coordination with the USFWS and CDFW to determine if California least terns are present. If surveys are negative for western snowy plovers or California least terns, work may proceed during the roosting period and the biologist will be present to monitor the establishment of the beach landing sites to ensure that no western snowy plovers or California least terns are injured or killed, should they arrive in the area subsequent to work commencing. The project will include fencing/walls that will prevent western snowy plovers or California least terns from entering the work areas. The biologist will conduct weekly site visits to ensure that fencing/walls are intact until construction activities are finished at the sites and all equipment is removed from the beach. The results of the preconstruction survey will be submitted to the City prior to the establishment of beach landing sites. All biological monitoring efforts will be documented in monthly compliance reports to the City. Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.3-1 would specifically require that western snowy plovers or California least terns which roost on the beach are protected if they occur in an area proposed for beach -supporting facilities. Implementation of this mitigation measure would reduce this impact to less than significant. IMPACT 4.3-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Have a Substantial Adverse Effect on Sensitive Biological Communities or Riparian Habitat? Hermosa Beach does not contain any sensitive biological communities or riparian habitat that could be impacted by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. No impact would occur. Numerous federal regulations include protections for endangered species, coastal and marine areas and wildlife, and surface water resources. Additional California regulations, including the California Endangered Species Act and the Coastal Act, protect certain special -status species and important habitat areas, including Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs). In its plans, the City must comply with state and federal requirements to protect special -status species, native plants, beach areas, and the watershed. No ESHAs are present in Hermosa Beach. PLAN Hermosa does not propose land use changes that would convert existing open space areas containing native vegetation or habitat to developed uses. Therefore, future development would not result in loss or degradation of riparian habitat or sensitive natural communities. Additionally, policies in the Parks + Open Space Element would protect sensitive habitat (Policies 9.3, 9.4, and 9.5 protect beach, coastal, and marine habitats). Policy 9.1 would require protection and preservation of critical habitats to prevent further extirpation of species. The PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions discussed above would ensure that potential impacts on sensitive natural communities are reduced or avoided if those communities are later identified in the planning area. In addition, projects must comply with state laws that would reduce impacts on sensitive natural communities. Therefore, no impact would occur. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.3-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Have a Substantial Adverse Effect on Federally Protected Wetlands as Defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could indirectly impact jurisdictional waters of the United States, particularly City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2027 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-15 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Santa Monica Bay. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations would result in a less than significant impact. There are no federally protected wetlands or water bodies considered waters of the United States within the city boundaries. However, Santa Monica Bay is a jurisdictional water of the United States and could be indirectly impacted by development in Hermosa Beach. The potential for stormwater flows to affect water quality would be controlled through implementation of Municipal Code Chapter8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), which includes the City's Low -Impact Design Ordinance (Municipal Code Section 8.44.095) and the City's Green Street Policy. Construction activities resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would also temporarily increase the amount of sediments and pollutants in stormwater runoff. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations (Municipal Code Section 8.44.090 and NPDES Construction General Permit stormwater pollution prevention plan requirements) would result in a Tess than significant impact. See Impact 4.8-1, in Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this EIR for a more complete discussion of this impact. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.3-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Interfere Substantially with the Movement of Native Resident or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or Within an Established Migratory Corridor? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could impede wildlife movement in the planning area. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would result in a less than significant impact. Wildlife movement is affected when physical constraints impede the ability of wildlife to search for food, water, shelter, and mates. In addition, when urban development fragments open space or creates obstacles or distractions, it compromises the quality of wildlife corridors and further hinders wildlife movement. Hermosa Beach is an urbanized community. Open space and areas not disturbed or heavily used by humans are scarce and are generally located at the beach along the coastline, the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, the hillside along Loma Drive, and the Valley neighborhood. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in any actions that would substantially alter these areas. Although no established migratory routes have been identified in the city, several migratory wildlife species are found along the city's coastline. Common coastal seabirds found foraging near the shore of Hermosa Beach include western and Clark's grebes, cormorants, loons, California brown pelicans, and gulls. Coastal birds are at their highest densities during the winter months. Mammal species found in the area include various cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), and sea otters. All marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Additionally, several invertebrate species, such as crustaceans and worms, live in the sand of the intertidal zone. These invertebrates attract shorebirds such as sanderling, western sandpiper, least sandpiper, willet), and various species of gull. Western snowy plover, a special -status species, is known to winter on the shores of Hermosa Beach. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in further protection for existing open spaces and wildlife corridors. PLAN Hermosa does not propose land use changes that would convert existing open space areas containing native vegetation or habitat to developed uses. However, future PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-16 • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES development, including infrastructure improvements, could potentially result in loss or degradation of wildlife corridors. Parks + Open Space Element Policies 9.3 and 9.5 would protect habitats and wildlife movement corridors from construction, recreation, and industrial activities while also ensuring the beaches function as high quality habitat for migratory species. Subsequent discretionary projects in the city would be required to demonstrate compliance with these policies and provide site-specific measures to address any potential impacts to migratory species. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would ensure that habitats used by migratory species would be protected from impacts associated with construction, recreation, and industrial activities. Therefore, impacts on wildlife corridors and wildlife movement would be minimized, and the impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.3-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Conflict with Any Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources, Such as a Tree Preservation Policy or Ordinance? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not result in a conflict with a local policy or ordinance protecting biological resources, including but not limited to Chapter 12.36 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code protecting certain trees. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Chapter 12.36, Trees, protects biological resources by preserving and protecting trees in the public right-of-way (parkway). Additionally, several Parks + Open Space Element policies recognize the importance of and seek to protect green spaces and urban forests citywide on public and private property. For example, Policy 10.1 promotes expansion of urban forests and green spaces. Policy 10.2 requires planting of native, non-invasive landscaping and trees and encourages the planting of edible landscapes and fruit trees. Additionally, implementation actions PARKS -24 and PARKS -25 require that a citywide tree inventory be completed and maintained and that the tree ordinance be reviewed and revised as needed to ensure protection of existing trees. Development projects would be required to minimize the removal of natural vegetation and replace any existing mature trees removed at a minimum of 2:1 ratio either on-site or elsewhere as prescribed by the City. Future projects proposed under PLAN Hermosa would be required to comply with applicable local ordinances. Regulatory processes to ensure compliance are already in place and would not be affected by the plan. In addition, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would ensure the protection of existing trees in the city. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative setting associated with PLAN Hermosa is the Southern California Bight, which is a region that consists of a large and gradual bend in the California coastline that is adjacent to the Los Angeles metropolitan area and contains a diverse range of habitats and marine life. This region is impacted by the existing urban conditions in the region as well as from recreational activities, urban runoff, and related impacts of urban uses. This cumulative setting also includes approved, proposed, planned, and other reasonably foreseeable projects and development in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 20I7 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-17 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Developments and planned land uses, including PLAN Hermosa, would contribute to impacts on biological resources in the region. IMPACT 4.3-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Biological Resources? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with existing, approved, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could result in the conversion of habitat and impact biological resources. Biological impacts from PLAN Hermosa would be limited due to the small size of potential projects and the focus on urban infill sites, and PLAN Hermosa would not contribute to any cumulative impacts. This would be a less than cumulatively considerable impact. PLAN Hermosa does not propose land use changes that would affect open space in the city. However, cumulative changes, including land use changes, could affect wildlife movement either directly or indirectly due to factors discussed in Impacts 4.3-1 and 4.3-4 above and are limited to the city and not regional biological conditions or wildlife movement. PLAN Hermosa does not propose land use changes that would convert existing open space areas to developed uses. Furthermore, the policies and implementation actions described in Impact 4.3-4 would reduce PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative effects. Because PLAN Hermosa would not convert existing open space areas to developed uses and would implement these policies and implementation actions, the plan's contribution to cumulative effects would not be considerable. The impact would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-18 • • 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.3.5 REFERENCES CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2014a. California Natural Diversity Database - February 4, 2014, update. Sacramento: CDFW Biogeographic Data Branch. . 2014b. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System Life History Accounts and Range Maps (online edition). Sacramento: CDFW Biogeographic Data Branch. http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx. City of Hermosa Beach. 2015. Transpacific Submarine Fiber Optic Cable Draft EIR. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. CNPS (California Native Plant Society). 2014. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v8-01 a). Sacramento: CNPS. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. 2014. All About Birds. http://www.allaboutbirds.org/Page.aspx?pid=1189. Goudey, Charles B., and Scott R. Miles. 1998. Ecological Subregions of California: Section & Subsection Descriptions. Major contributions by Earl B. Alexander and John O. Sawyer. UDSA, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region. Hamilton, W. J. 2004. "Tricolored Blackbird (Agelaius tricolor)." In The Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: A strategy for reversing the decline of riparian -associated birds in California. California Partners in Flight. Kus, B. 2002. "Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus)." In The Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: a strategy for reversing the decline of riparian -associated birds in California. California Partners in Flight. McNab, W. H., D. T. Cleland, J. A. Freeouf, J. E. Keys Jr., G. J. Nowacki, C.A. Carpenter, compilers. 2007. Description of ecological subregions: sections of the conterminous United States. General Technical Report WO -76B. Washington, DC: USDA, Forest Service. Nafis, Gary. 2014. California Herps: A Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of California. Accessed February 26, 2014. http://www.californiaherps.com/. USFS (US Forest Service). 2014. Vegetation Classification & Mapping. http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r5/landmanagement/resourcemanagement/?cid=stelprd b5347192. USFWS (US Fish and Wildlife Service). 1998a. Vernal Pools of Southern California Recovery Plan. Portland, OR: USFWS. - 1998b. Recovery Plan for the El Segundo Blue Butterfly. Portland, OR: USFWS. 1998c. Recovery Plan for the Pacific Pocket Mouse. Portland, OR: USFWS. 2002. Final Recovery Plan Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empinodax traillii extimus). Albuquerque, NM: USFWS. . 2005. Recovery Plan for Vernal Pool Ecosystems of California. - 2006. California Least Tern 5 -Year Review. Carlsbad, CA: USFWS. . 2007. Recovery Plan for the Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrius nivosus). Sacramento: USFWS. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.3-19 4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES . 2009. Light-footed Clapper Rail (Ralluss longirostris levipes) 5 -Year Review: Summary and Evaluation. Carlsbad, CA: USFWS. 2010. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) 5 -year Review: Summary and Evaluation. Carlsbad, CA: USFWS. 2012. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover. Final rule. Federal Register 77(118): 36728-36869. . 2014a. Information, Planning, and Conservation System (IPaC). 2014b. Critical Habitat Portal. Accessed February 2014. . 2014c. 5 -Year Review for Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly. Carlsbad, CA: USFWS. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3-20 • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES • • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 4.4.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to cultural resources (Le., archaeological, paleontological, and historical resources) associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes an overview of archaeological, paleontological, and historical resources in Hermosa Beach, a discussion of federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to the management of these resources, and a discussion of the type of these resources likely to be encountered in the planning area. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element, Land Use + Design Element, Parks + Open Space Element, and Sustainability + Conservation Element policies and implementation actions both pose potential threats to historical resources and promote the identification, protection, and maintenance of cultural resources to reduce potential threats. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing cultural resource concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this section is based on a technical report titled Archaeological and Paleontological Resources Assessment and Historic Resources Existing Conditions Report to support PLAN Hermosa, prepared by PCR Services Corporation and attached to this document as Appendix C-7. The scope of work included an archaeological resources records search through the California Historical Resources Information System, South Central Coastal Information Center (CHRIS-SCCIC), a Sacred Lands File search through the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), a paleontological resources records search through the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC), review of City Planning Division and Building and Safety Division property files, and a citywide windshield survey of all buildings over 45 years old. All cultural resources investigations were conducted by staff who meet and exceed the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards in History, Architectural History, Archaeology, and Historic Preservation. Definitions: Cultural resources are defined as physical evidence or place of past human activity: site, object, landscape, or structure; or a site, structure, landscape, object, or natural feature of significance to a group of people traditionally associated with it. Archaeology is the recovery and study of material evidence of human life and culture of past ages. Over time, this material evidence becomes buried, fragmented or scattered, or otherwise hidden from view. In urban areas such as Hermosa Beach and environs, archaeological resources may include both prehistoric remains (before 1769 A.D.) and remains dating to the historical period (1769 to 1950 A.D.). Prehistoric (or Native American) resources can include village sites, temporary camps, lithic (stone tool) scatters, rock art, roasting pits/hearths, milling features, rock features, and burials. Historic archaeological resources can include refuse heaps, bottle dumps, ceramic scatters, privies, foundations, and burials and are generally associated in California with the Spanish Mission Period (after A.D. 1769) to the mid -twentieth century of the American Period (1950s). Paleontology is a branch of geology that studies the life forms of the past, especially prehistoric life forms, through the study of plant and animal fossils. Paleontological resources represent a limited, nonrenewable,and impact -sensitive scientific and educational resource. Fossil remains such as bones, teeth, shells, and leaves are found in the geologic deposits (rock formations) where they were originally buried. Paleontological resources include not only the actual fossil remains but also the collecting localities and the geologic formations containing those localities. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-1 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Historical resource is a term encompassing prehistoric/historic archaeological sites and/or the built environment, which includes historic sites, buildings, structures, objects, districts, and landscapes. 4.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-7 includes a prehistoric and historic overview of Hermosa Beach and the surrounding areas, describes methods of identifying known cultural resources in the planning area, and discusses themes and property types in the city. It also includes a regulatory setting pertaining to cultural resources located in the planning area. Key findings from the environmental setting are summarized below by resource type. ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES No known archaeological sites or isolates have been recorded in the city, based on information in the SCCIC database. However, one archaeological site (CA -LAN -1872) has been recorded immediately adjacent and south of the city's southern boundaries, along Herondo Street. CA - LAN -1872 is a historic and prehistoric archaeological site believed to represent a portion of the Gabrielino village of Engva, which was located along the edges of the Old Salt Lake. The Old Salt Lake is also known to have been located immediately outside and in very close proximity to the city's southern boundaries. The Old Salt Lake has been designated as State Historic Landmark No. 373 and is also listed in the California Register of Historical Resources (California Register). These resources are known to have been destroyed by modern development (e.g., construction of an apartment complex, expansion of the Redondo Beach Generating Station, and road expansion), and the Old Salt Lake was known to have been filled in with concentrated chloride brine in the early 1900s. The results of the paleontological resources records search conducted at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County indicated that three fossil localities of the same sedimentary deposits (older Quaternary terrace deposits) which occur within the city limits have been found nearby. These localities have yielded fossils of horses, a marine whale, and a mammoth at depths between 15 to 35 feet below the surface. Other research indicated that adjacent to the city limits (at the Redondo Beach Generating Station), a Rancholabrean-age tooth of an extinct llama was found at a depth of approximately 30 feet below the surface. A fossil horse tooth was also found near the Redondo Beach Generating Station at a depth of about 35 feet below the surface. Paleontological resources are discussed further in Appendix C-7. HISTORICAL RESOURCES There are 28 previously identified individual historical resources and two potential districts in Hermosa Beach which are included in the City's current General Plan Land Use Element (Historic Preservation) that could be materially or visually impacted by PLAN Hermosa as the result of alteration of these resources or their immediate surroundings. A description of existing historic resources in the city are included in Appendix C-7. • Two properties are designated local landmarks and are listed on the California Register: the Bijou Theater at 1229-1235 Hermosa Avenue and the Community Center at 710 Pier Avenue. • One property, the Clark Building at 861 Valley Drive, is listed on the California Register. • Two properties have been designated by the City (2011) as "potential landmarks that warrant further study by Section 17.53.040(B) of the Historic Preservation ordinance (per Planning Commission Resolution No. 98-65)": the Bank of America Building at 90 Pier Avenue and the Hermosa Hotel at 20-26 Pier Avenue. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-2 • • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES • Two potential districts have been identified by the City: a residential neighborhood bounded by 16th Street, The Strand, and 20th Street, and the Hermosa Avenue and Strand Houses north of 26th Street. Hermosa Beach has not been surveyed previously; therefore, a citywide windshield survey was conducted by certified architectural historians to examine existing conditions and identify examples of property types, styles, and methods of construction that represent key periods of development in Hermosa Beach. There are approximately 3,600 parcels with improvements over 45 years old in Hermosa Beach. Architectural Overview Early Twentieth -Century Development Of the resources identified in the Windshield Survey, approximately 60% are single-family one-story residential properties constructed between 1906 and 1930. These residences are located in the earliest subdivided tracts, such as the Hermosa Beach, First Addition to Hermosa Beach and Shakespeare tracts. The earliest recorded resource is a single- family beach cottage constructed in 1906, followed by two single-family beach cottages constructed in 1907 and located. The vast majority of the beach cottages in Hermosa Beach are derivatives of the Craftsman style, Period Revival styles and Eclectic Cottages. Cottages were constructed on a budget, which is reflected in their vernacular design and use of inexpensive materials, such as wood -frame construction resting on brick foundations and minimal architectural ornamentation. Many of the houses were quickly constructed small seasonal homes that were added onto in multiple stages. The beach cottage architecture emphasized simple focal points: decorative shingling or board -and -batten siding exterior treatments, gabled or hipped roofs, bay windows, porches, windows and doors. Generally the residences are small-scale to allow for the maximum amount of yard space, patios, and courtyards to promote outdoor living. Concentrations of the beach cottage property type are located south of Pier Avenue in the Hermosa Beach and First Addition Tracts, in the Shakespeare Tract, and just east of the former Santa Fe railroad south of 6th Street. Associated with this period are approximately twelve walk - streets located between Hermosa Avenue and The Strand Hermosa Beach Tract, and there are two walk streets located on 31st and 30th Streets between Manhattan Avenue and Morningside Drive in the Shakespeare Tract. The streets are closed to vehicles and the houses face inward toward each other. Small parks called "parkettes" are distinctive landscape -:-. __ _.. features. The Sand Hill Parkette located at Circle Drive and Loma Walk is an example of a small park integrated into the early First Addition of Hermosa Beach residential tract. Other parkettes include Moondust Parkette (2nd Street) and Ocean View Parkette (3rd Street). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 4.4-3 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Larger, two-story residences were constructed between 1910 and 1930 in the earliest tracts in closest proximity to the beach with views of the Ocean. The Strand, Hermosa Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, and Circle Avenue have some of the grander residences in Hermosa Beach designed in the Arts and Crafts, Shingle and Craftsman styles. Popular from 1895-1915, Arts and Crafts movement designers blended elements of the late 19th -century Shingle and Queen Anne styles with 20th -century Craftsman and Colonial Revival styles. A highly eclectic style, it promoted social reform ideals implicit in handcraft and simplified structure and ornament. Intended to reconnect architecture to the crafting of natural materials, the primary material associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement was wood, with many residences having elaborately crated wood framing, interior paneling, and built-in furniture. Other materials commonly used were brick and stone. Generally, Arts and Crafts designed residential buildings fall in to two property types: the 1- or 1 1/2 -story bungalow or the 2 -story house. Associated styles were sometimes applied to places of worship, artisans' studios, and social halls, but were only rarely used during this period for government or industrial buildings. There are three good examples of the shingle style located on Hermosa Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, and The Strand. The Shingle style (1900-1920) is a uniquely American adaptation that surrounds the basic forms of Queen Anne and Colonial Revival with unembellished wood shingles, and adds foundations and porches of rough field stone with classical column porch posts. The Craftsman style is more ubiquitous in Hermosa Beach compared to the two previously mentioned styles. The Windshield Survey recorded approximately eight Craftsman style residences. The Craftsman style (1905-1940) borrows from English arts and crafts, oriental wood architecture, and a variety of other sources such as California adobe dwellings, Swiss chalets, and barns and log cabins. These simple residences were informal in plan, elevation, and detail. Sensitive to the surrounding natural environment, they hugged the ground and had low-pitched and wide -projecting gable roofs, with rafters exposed. Most had large porches under a secondary (lower) roof supported by square or elephantine columns. Bases and foundations used river rock or clinker brick which connected them to the surrounding landscape. During the 1920s and 1930s, Hermosa Beach experienced another wave of single-family development infilling the older tracts in Hermosa Beach. Between 1920 and 1940, one- and two-story Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean Revival -style residences were constructed. Typical character -defining features of these styles designed between 1900 and 1940 include asymmetrical facades, courtyards, verandas, red clay tile roofs, stucco -finished walls, wood framed multi -paned PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-4 August 2017 • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES casement windows with prominent lintels and sills, arched doorways, wrought -iron window grilles, decorative carvings, glazed tiles and fountains. There are a few residences constructed during the 1920s -1930s period that represent other styles, including Tudor Revival, Italianate, and Art Deco style residences. There is a single-family residence located on 33rd Street, which is a good example of the Tudor style with steeply pitched cross -gabled roof. The Tudor style is identified by steeply pitched roofs, usually side - gabled, with one or more prominent cross gables; tall, narrow windows, usually in groups, with multi -pane glazing; and massive chimneys crowned by decorative chimney pots. The two-story single-family residence at Circle Drive is an example of the Art Deco style. The Art Deco tradition was established by the Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratif et lndustriels Modernes in Paris in 1925. The style used the tools of industrialization for highly artistically expressive purposes. It celebrated a break from historic precedence, the decorative arts, new construction and fabrication methods, and creative uses of technology in the modern world, particularly within booming cities of the 1920s. Character -defining features of the Art Deco style include stepped facade, sunrise and floriated patterns, polychromatic mosaic tiles, metal casement type window, zig-zag parapet trim, and chevron and lozenge molding. An apartment building at the southern end of The Strand is a rare example of an Art Deco -style apartment building. wpFe The overwhelming majority of Hermosa Beach's early residential properties are single-family, however there are a few duplexes, apartment buildings, and bungalow courts. The Pueblo Apartment building is a rare example of a Pueblo Revival -style apartment building constructed in 1924. A derivative of the Spanish Colonial Revival style, the Pueblo Revival style is characterized by battered walls, rounded corners, and flat roofs with projecting rounded roof beams or vigas. Straight -headed windows generally are set deep into the walls. Second and third floor levels are stepped or terraced. Other typical character -defining features of this style include asymmetrical facades, courtyards, red clay tile roofs, stuccoed walls, wood framed rectangular windows with prominent heavy timber lintels and wood sills, arched doorways, wrought iron window grilles, canales, projecting vigas, decorative carvings and mosaic tile. Another rare property type is the Bungalow Court, and there are Spanish Colonial Revival examples at on 17th Street, Hermosa Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, Monterey Boulevard, and Owosso Avenue, and a Beach Cottage example on Manhattan Avenue. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 4.4-5 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Commercial architecture constructed in Hermosa Beach during the first three decades of the twentieth century, reflects national architectural trends. Representative architectural styles include most of the Period Revival styles, however the primary architectural elements are unreinforced brick construction, parapets, and adaptable storefronts. During the historic period, early twentieth century commercial properties developed along Hermosa Avenue, Pier Avenue, and Pacific Coast Highway (El Camino Real). There are few commercial properties remaining extant from the early period of Hermosa Beach's development. The most distinctive non-residential resource in Hermosa Beach is the Vetter Windmill. Originally the Vetter Windmill was located at Ardmore Avenue and 16th Street, where it was erected by Herman Vawter to provide water for his flower and vegetable gardens. The Vetter Windmill has been relocated to Greenwood Park at the northeast intersection of Aviation Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. There is an Early 20th Century Utilitarian Brick Commercial Building which was constructed in 1913 located on Hermosa Avenue. Constructed two years later is a one-story commercial building with storefronts on Manhattan Avenue. There are two representative examples of 1920s commercial buildings; Art Deco/Moderne building on Hermosa Avenue; and Renaissance Revival building on Pacific Coast Highway. The Renaissance Revival style (1895- 1930) features symmetrical facades, with masonry or stone exterior walls highlighted by cast stone or terra cotta detailing and has arched openings. Located near the former pier, are the Beaux Arts style Bijou Building (former Metropolitan Theater) constructed in 1923, and an Art Deco style former hotel located on Pier Plaza constructed in 1924. The Beaux Arts style (1885-1930) uses formal symmetry, Italian Renaissance form, and classical Greek and Roman decorative elements like columns, pediments and balustrades to create a grand and imposing architectural statement. Located in the First Addition to Hermosa Beach Tract is the Neoclassical Revival style First Church of Christ Scientist constructed in 1926. Character -defining features of the Neoclassical Revival style include fluted columns topped by complex capitals, friezes and entablatures embellished with garlanded or patterned carvings and massive porticos. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-6 August 2017 • • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES There are two Works Progress Administration (WPA) Moderne Schools in Hermosa Beach, the North School located at 417 25th Street and Pier Avenue School located at 710 Pier Avenue. In 1935, Mayor John Clark built a Lawn Bowling facility with the help of WPA funds between 8th and 9th Street on Valley Drive. The facility consists of the WPA Moderne Clark Stadium and Clark Field located on approximately six acres. The WPA/PWA Moderne style was popular during the Great Depression as developed by the various government relief projects sponsored by the Works Progress Administration and Public Works Administration (PWA). The government created jobs for architects, designers, and builders by putting them to work, creating hundreds of government and civic buildings, including post offices, train stations, public schools, museums, bridges, and dams throughout the United States. WPA/PWA Moderne structures reflect a greater use of conservative and classical elements and have a distinct monumental feel to them. The WPA/PWA Moderne style was characterized by board -form or smooth concrete exterior; typically flat -roofed, although occasionally gabled or hipped and tiles; generally symmetrical; mostly horizontal emphasis; piers, often fluted or reeded, separating recessed window channels;. incorporation of shallow relief panels and interior murals; rounded and bull -nosed corners or other curved elements; and Art Deco motifs such as chevrons. Post -War Development Following World War II, there was some single - and multi -family residential infill in older Hermosa Beach tracts and newly subdivided tracts were improved. Architectural styles popular during this period were the Ranch, Minimal Traditional, and Mid -Century Modern. There are four Ranch -style residences in Hermosa Beach constructed between 1938 and 1957. Ranch style (1945-1965) buildings are usually one story, rectangular in plan with broad tiled or wood or composition shingled roofs often with a side gable or gable -on -hipped roof extension, and also broad hipped roofs with overhanging eaves and exposed rafters. Ranch features are sometimes found mixed with the Minimal Traditional style. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 4.4-7 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES The Sea Skiff Apartments constructed in 1961 and a building on 27th Street constructed in 1951 are good examples of a Mid -Century Modern style apartment buildings. Mid- Century Modern style architecture reflects the influence of the Modern Movement and International Style architecture along with other post -World War II architectural trends. Modern materials, architectural innovations in plan, function and use, incorporation of modern amenities in residential architecture, and a lack of traditional architectural ornamentation characterize the style. Commercial infill along the vacated railroad rights- of-way that were improved into roads also occurred during the Post War period. There are approximately four Mid -Century Modern commercial buildings along Aviation Boulevard, Hermosa Avenue, Pacific Coast Highway, and Pier Avenue. Mid -Century Modern design (1945-1965) used sleek, simplified geometry and asymmetrical, intersecting angular planes of masonry volumes and glass curtain walls, locked together by a flat planar roof. Designers embraced the optimistic spirit of the time, experimenting with the newest technologies and materials in building, such as concrete and aluminum, and incorporating futuristic elements. The former grocery store constructed in 1945 on Pier Avenue, and the Carousel constructed in 1950 at the Greenwich Village intersection with Hermosa Avenue are examples of Roadside Vernacular buildings designed to draw traffic off the street. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-8 August 2017 1 • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Modern style (1945-1965) The Sea Sprite motel was constructed in 1958 near the ocean and is an example of a Mid -Century Modern style motel related to recreation. An industrial Vernacular Modern building constructed in 1968 on Cypress Avenue housed one of the first surf board industries in Hermosa Beach. The building was used as Greg Noll's surfboard factory. Surf board manufacturing and surfing is very important to the economic and recreation history of Hermosa Beach. Constructed during the post -World War II era, functionalist Vernacular industrial buildings were common throughout Southern California. Designed to accommodate light industry, these building were generally one-story and utilized modular tilt -up construction methods and standardized materials in order to minimize construction costs. The exteriors were generally exposed brick or concrete although there are a few examples with stucco on the front elevations. The primary facade was usually more decorative utilizing Mid -Century Modern design motifs and the focus was bold signage advertising the company name. Often the buildings were set -back from the street behind a Modern landscape. The Modern New Formalist style Civic Center complex comprised of City Hall, Public Library, Police Station and Fire Station buildings were designed by Savo Stoshitch between 1961 and 1965 at the corner of Pier Avenue and Valley Drive. The New Formalist style (1960-1975) embraced many Classical precedents such as building proportion and scale, classical columns, highly stylized entablatures, and colonades. The upper floors or roof were either cantilevered or supported by an exo-structure that was vertical to the outer edge of the upper floors or roof. Roofs dominate the form of New Formalist buildings and are designed as large, heavy slabs that project out from the building. Often supported by massive tapering concrete columns, the roof underside sometimes features a raised grid pattern. These buildings were often on a platform or plinth that opened onto a landscaped plaza. The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt is a unique City landscape that was developed during the late 1980s from an abandoned Santa Fe rail line. The park follows the historic railroad right-of-way which runs south to north through the City. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 4.4-9 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 4.4.3 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to cultural resources in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of cultural resources that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory framework for cultural resources is discussed in detail in Appendix C-7. Key regulations used to reduce environmental impacts are summarized below. FEDERAL • Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act: Section 106 requires federal agencies, or those they fund or permit, to consider the effects of their actions on properties that are listed in or are eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (National Register). • National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA): NEPA directs federal agencies to prepare a detailed statement of the environmental impacts of any "major federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment." The human environment consists of many aspects, including what NEPA terms cultural resources. Cultural resources also include the cultural use of the physical and natural environment, social institutions, lifeways, religious practices, and other cultural institutions. STATE • California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA): CEQA specifically defines a historical resource and explicitly defines when an action would have a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. CEQA includes provisions that specifically address the protection of cultural resources by requiring consideration of impacts of a project on unique archaeological resources, historical resources, and paleontological resources. • Senate Bill (SB) 18: SB 18 requires that cities and counties contact and consult with California Native American tribes before adopting or amending general plans and specific plans, or when designating land as open space. • Assembly Bill (AB) 52: AB 52 amends CEQA by requiring that lead agencies consult with Native American groups or individuals regarding the identification, evaluation, and treatment of tribal cultural resources prior to the release of an environmental document. The City requested consultation with Native American tribes under AB 52 in August 2015. In accordance with AB 52 and SB 18, the City notified all of the relevant tribal organizations identified by the Native American Heritage Commission for the City of Hermosa Beach. To date, none of the tribal organizations have requested formal consultation through the General Plan update or EIR process. However the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians-Kizh Nation have requested that an experienced, trained, and certified Native American monitor be on site during any ground -disturbing activities related to subsequent projects. • California Health and Safety Code Section 7050: This code section states that if human remains are uncovered during ground -disturbing activities, the contractor or the project proponent must immediately halt potentially damaging excavation in the area of the burial and notify the county coroner to determine the nature of the remains. • California Register of Historical Resources: The California Register includes resources that are listed in or are formally determined eligible for listing on the National Register, as well as some California State Landmarks and Points of Historical Interest. The eligibility criteria for listing in the California Register are similar to those for National Register listing, but focus on the importance of the resources to California history and heritage. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-10 a 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES • California State Historical Landmarks: California Historical Landmarks are buildings, structures, sites, or places that have been determined to have statewide historical significance and meet specific criteria. The resource must also be approved for designation by the county or local jurisdiction, be recommended by the State Historical Resources Commission, and be officially designated by California State Parks. California Historical Landmarks are automatically listed in the California Register. • California Points of Historical Interest: California Points of Historical Interest are sites, buildings, features, or events that are of local (city or county) significance and have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic, scientific, technical, religious, experimental, or other value. LOCAL • Hermosa Beach Municipal Code (Section 17.53, Historic Resources Preservation): See discussion below under "Criteria for Eligibility." Criteria for Eligibility Cultural resources fall within the jurisdiction of several levels of government. Federal laws provide the framework for the identification and in certain instances, protection of historic resources. The National Historic Preservation Act, enacted in 1966, established the National Register program under the Secretary of the Interior. Additionally, state and local jurisdictions play active roles in the identification, documentation, and protection of such resources within their communities. Enacted in 1992, the California Register program is administered by the State Office of Historic Preservation and the State Historical Resources Commission. The City of Hermosa Beach adopted a preservation ordinance in 1998 (Hermosa Beach Municipal Code, Chapter 17.53, Ordinance 98-1186). A summary of the regulatory setting as it relates to the impact analysis is included below. To be eligible for listing in the National Register, a resource must be significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. Four criteria for evaluation have been established to determine the significance of a resource: 1) It is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. 2) It is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. 3) It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. 4) It yields, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. The criteria for eligibility for the California Register are based on National Register criteria. Certain resources are determined by the statute to be automatically included in the California Register by operation of law, including California properties formally determined eligible for or listed in the National Register. To be eligible for the California Register, a historic resource must be significant at the local, state, or national level, under one or more of the following four criteria: 1) It is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California's history and cultural heritage. 2) It is associated with the lives of persons important in our past. 3) It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-11 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 4) It has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. Under the City's current policies and preservation ordinance, only resources that are designated as federal, state, or local landmarks are protected from alterations, degradation, or demolition. Designated landmarks are required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the City of Hermosa Beach prior to making alterations. When proposed alteration or demolition to other potentially historic resources requires a discretionary review, a thorough analysis of the potential impact on the cultural significance of the building will be studied under CEQA before the decision to alter or demolish the project can be made. A historic resource may be designated a local landmark, pursuant to City Municipal Code Sections 17.53.070 through 17.53.120, if it meets one or more of the following criteria: 1) It exemplifies or reflects special elements of the city's cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic, engineering, or architectural history. 2) It is identified with persons or events significant in local, state, or national history. 3) It embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period, or method of construction, or is a valuable example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship. 4) It is representative of the notable work of a builder, designer, or architect. 5) Its unique location or singular physical characteristic(s) represents an established and familiar visual feature or landmark of a neighborhood, community, or the city. Nomination of a historic resource as a landmark is made by the City, or by application of the property owner or property owners representing a majority or controlling interest in the property on which the resource is located. To be eligible for consideration as a landmark, a historic resource must be at least 50 years old; with the exception that a historic resource of at least 30 years old may be eligible if the City Council determines that the resource is exceptional, or that it is threatened by demolition, removal, relocation, or inappropriate alteration. 4.4.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on historical resources are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. 2) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature. 3) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries. 4) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of implementation of PLAN Hermosa, compared to existing conditions of cultural resources within the city. It is assumed that all future and existing development in the city would comply with applicable laws, regulations, design standards, and plans. Presented below are the applicable policies and implementation actions outlined in PLAN Hermosa that would affect cultural resources. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-12 • • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Subsequent public and private projects that include construction excavations (e.g., grubbing/clearing, demolition grading, trenching, and boring) are activities that have potential to impact or cause a substantial adverse change to archaeological and historic resources, paleontological resources, and human remains. Subsequent projects that do not require excavation activities would cause no direct impacts on archaeological and paleontological resources, and human remains; therefore, no additional analysis or mitigation is necessary for these specific types of activities. Other development activities that would excavate heavily disturbed soils or artificial fill would also cause no impact on intact and significant archaeological resources, paleontological resources, or human remains since they have likely been displaced by previous disturbances (such as the original construction of a condominium complex) and there would be very limited to no potential to encounter intact and significant resources in artificial fill soils. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address cultural resources are listed below. If implemented in the future, these particular policies and actions may reduce or avoid adverse material impacts on historical resources either directly or indirectly. Policies Land Use + Design Element • 5.5 Preservation and adaptive reuse. Encourage the preservation or adaptive reuse of historic structures and iconic landmarks. • 5.6 Eclectic and diverse architecture. Seek to maintain and enhance neighborhood character through eclectic and diverse architectural styles. • 7.1 Re -purposing surplus property. Promote the reuse of surplus publicly -owned property for other uses that benefit the community. • 7.3 School modernization upgrades. Support HBCSD plans to renovate and modernize school facilities to meet growing capacity needs in a manner that minimizes burdens to adjacent neighborhoods. • 10.1 Historic landmarks and districts. Encourage the voluntary designation of potentially historic resources as landmarks or historic districts. • 10.2 Protect designated landmarks. Continue to use the Certificate of Appropriateness process for reviewing applications to demolish or alter designated landmarks. • 10.3 Public and institutional facilities. Consider the designation of potentially historic public or institutional resources under threat of demolition or deterioration. • 10.4 Historic resources as cultural tourism. Promote historic places and cultural tourism as an economic development strategy. • 10.5 Adaptive reuse and sustainable development. Promote historic preservation as sustainable development and encourage adaptive reuse of historic or older properties. • 10.6 History and cultural heritage. Support and encourage efforts to document and share the cultural heritage and history of Hermosa Beach. • 10.7 Culturally inclusive planning. Ensure that historic preservation planning is culturally inclusive and reflective of the unique background and diversity of neighborhoods in the city. • 10.8 Incentives and technical assistance. Provide expert technical assistance to owners of potentially eligible and designated historic properties with tools and incentives to maintain historic resources. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-13 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES • 10.9 Salvage architectural features or materials. Encourage the preservation or reuse of historic architectural features on site or within the community. • 10.10 Archaeological and paleontological resources. Recognize the prehistory and history of the city and strive to identify, protect, and preserve archaeological and paleontological resources. Public Safety Element • 1.9 Facilitate retrofits. Encourage and facilitate retrofits of seismically high-risk buildings. Implementation Actions • GOVERNANCE -5. Incorporate guidance related to Native American consultation and treatment of prehistoric and Native American resources into local CEQA guidelines for Hermosa Beach. • LAND USE -2. Establish development standards within the Zoning Code to establish any new land use designations and modify existing development standards to articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area and the applicable density/intensity standards. • LAND USE -13. Amend the CEQA documentation and initial study process to ensure cultural and historical resources are studied in accordance with CEQA and any local historic preservation programs. • LAND USE -14. Amend Hermosa Beach Historic Preservation Ordinance to align with Historic Preservation goals and policies including but not limited to: • Clarify that the City Council may nominate City -owned properties and that only the property owner may nominate private property. • Establish a list of encouraged actions that a property owner may take when a property over 50 years in age is demolished, which could include photo documentation of key architectural features, salvage or donation of key architectural features or original materials, or installation of plaque, or other actions to reflect or recognize the former structure. • LAND USE -15. Review and update eligibility criteria to use in the designation of local historic sites or historic districts. • LAND USE -16. Develop emergency preparedness and disaster response plans for cultural resources, including a recovery action plan that addresses long-range decisions likely to be faced by the City following a major disaster, including economic recovery, protocols for demolition or restoration of damaged historic structures, and fee deferral for repair permits. • LAND USE -17. Create a program to provide for the voluntary installation of plaques and/or public art related to historic buildings and sites in the city. • LAND USE -18. Research and develop innovative policies for preserving historic properties. • LAND USE -19. Work with community organizations to develop brochures, guides, walking tours, and other marketing materials to highlight existing public art in Hermosa Beach. • LAND USE -20. Develop historic preservation expertise among staff and decision makers on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, preservation ordinances, the State Historical Building Code, environmental review for historical resources, and tax credits and incentives. • LAND USE -21. All discretionary projects that include ground disturbance or excavation activities on previously undisturbed land shall be required to conduct archaeological investigations in accordance with CEQA regulations to determine if the project is sensitive for cultural resources. Additionally, as the Lead Agency for future discretionary PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-14 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES projects, the City is required under AB 52 to notify tribal organizations of proposed projects and offer to consult with those tribal organizations that indicate interest. Following any tribal consultation or archaeological investigation, the City shall weigh and consider available evidence to determine whether there is a potential risk for disturbing or damaging any cultural or tribal resources and whether any precautionary measures can be required to reduce or eliminate that risk. Those precautions may include requiring construction workers to complete training on archaeological and tribal resources before any ground disturbance activity and/or requiring a qualified archaeologist or tribal representative to monitor some or all of the ground disturbance activities. The City shall require the preservation of discovered archaeologically significant resources (as determined based on city, state, and federal standards by a qualified professional) in place if feasible or provide mitigation (avoidance, excavation, documentation, curation, data recovery, or other appropriate measures) prior to further disturbance. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.4-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause a Substantial Adverse Change in the Significance of an Archaeological Resource? Implementation, of PLAN Hermosa could provide for future development and reuse projects on previously undisturbed land throughout the city, which could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. However, PLAN Hermosa includes implementation actions that require archaeological investigations for discretionary projects on previously undisturbed lands determined sensitive for cultural resources, and require the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Subsequent public and private projects under PLAN Hermosa that include excavation (e.g., grubbing/clearing, grading, trenching, and boring) into native soil could have the potential to impact or cause a substantial adverse change to undiscovered archaeological resources, paleontological resources, and human remains. Future development that does not require excavation activities would cause no impacts on archaeological resources, paleontological resources, and human remains; therefore, no additional analysis or mitigation is necessary for these specific types of activities. Other development that would excavate heavily disturbed soils or artificial fill would cause no impact on intact and significant archaeological resources, paleontological resources, or human remains since such resources have likely been displaced by previous disturbances and there would be very limited to no potential to encounter intact and significant resources in artificial fill soils. No known archaeological resources (historic or prehistoric) from the SCCIC's database have been recorded within the city. These findings, however, do not preclude the possibility of encountering undiscovered archaeological resources during construction, given the proven prehistoric and historic occupation of the region (as described in Appendix C-7), the identification of surface and subsurface archaeological resources near the PLAN Hermosa planning area (e.g., Old Salt Lake and CA -LAN -1872), and the favorable natural conditions (e.g., Pacific Ocean) that would have attracted prehistoric and historic inhabitants to the area. The archaeological monitoring of numerous construction projects throughout the region in recent decades has demonstrated the existence of deeply buried archaeological deposits, especially in locations of rapid Holocene deposition such as alluvial fans. The lack of known archaeological resources identified in the planning area may be because projects were constructed prior to cultural resources protection laws and because parcels were not surveyed prior to construction. It is also possible that buried archaeological resources that City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-15 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES were not visible to previous archaeological surveyors have now been brought to the surface as a result of disturbance (e.g., clearing, grading) or natural processes (e.g., erosion, wind, floods). Development in Hermosa Beach could result in damage to prehistoric- and historic -period archaeological resources located at or near previously undisturbed ground surfaces as the result of construction. In addition, infrastructure and other improvements requiring ground disturbance could result in damage to or destruction of archaeological resources buried below the ground surface. Archaeological sites have the potential to contain intact deposits of artifacts, associated features, and dietary remains that could contribute to the regional prehistoric or historic record or may be of cultural or religious importance to Native American groups. Land Use + Design Element Policy 10.10 directs the City to recognize the prehistory and history of Hermosa Beach and strive to identify, protect, and preserve the city's archaeological resources. The direction to recognize archaeological resources would be accomplished through archaeological investigations, as appropriate, which would include research, Native American consultation (implementation action GOVERNANCE -5), pedestrian surveys, and testing during the CEQA planning process (i.e., prior to construction), as well as monitoring during ground - disturbing activities (i.e., during construction). The proper handling of discovered resources and enforcement of applicable state and federal laws and regulations would qualify as the directed maintenance of archaeological resources. Much of the planning area is built out, and most new development pursuant to PLAN Hermosa would therefore take place aboveground on previously disturbed land, thereby minimizing the potential to disturb archaeological resources. However, ground -disturbing activities on previously undisturbed land could affect the integrity of an as -yet -unknown archaeological resource, thereby causing a substantial change in the significance of the resource. Although efforts would be made to identify and mitigate impacts on potential archaeological resources prior to ground disturbance, there is no way to know if significant archaeological resources occur below undisturbed ground surfaces. Implementation action LAND USE -21 would require archaeological investigations, as necessary, by a qualified archaeologist for projects subject to CEQA involving ground -disturbing activities for areas not previously surveyed and/or that are determined sensitive for cultural resources and would require preparation and implementation of a treatment plan if buried resources would be affected by a proposed project. For example, an initial archaeological study (Phase I Assessment), at a minimum, would consist of the following tasks to identify known archaeological resources in a given project site: a cultural resources records search through the South Central Coastal Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System, a pedestrian survey of the project site, a review of the land use history, and coordination with knowledgeable organizations or individuals (e.g., Hermosa Beach Historical Society, Native American tribes). If warranted, additional analyses such as archaeological test excavations and/or remote sensing methods would be implemented to identify resources. To identify if a project requires archaeological investigations, the City would review available geotechnical studies to determine whether excavation activities would impact native soils. If a geotechnical study is not available for review, then the City would need to make a determination based on a review of recent aerial photography of the project location, available data from adjacent or nearby sites, and professional judgement. Thus, with implementation action LAND USE -211, future development and reuse projects under PLAN Hermosa would implement the appropriate treatment and/or preservation of resources if encountered. Therefore, potentially significant impacts on archaeological resources would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-16 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES IMPACT 4.4-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Disturbance of Any Human Remains? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could disturb human remains. With implementation of existing policies and procedures, this impact would be less than significant. As discussed in Appendix C-7, no known human remains were identified from the SCCIC records in the PLAN Hermosa planning area. However, these findings do not preclude the existence of previously unknown human remains located below the ground surface that may be encountered during construction excavations associated with subsequent projects in the city. The discovery of Native American human remains, including cases of multiple burials, is not uncommon in the region (e.g., Malaga Cove). Similar to the discussion regarding archaeological resources above, it is also possible to encounter buried human remains during construction given the proven prehistoric and historic occupation of the region, the identification of multiple surface and subsurface archaeological resources in the PLAN Hermosa planning area, and the favorable natural conditions that would have attracted prehistoric and historic inhabitants to the area. Subsequent projects in Hermosa Beach could result in damage to human remains located at or near previously undisturbed ground surfaces as the result of construction involving ground disturbance. In addition, infrastructure and other improvements requiring ground disturbance could result in damage to or destruction of human remains buried below the ground surface. Human remains have the potential to contribute to the regional prehistoric or historic record or may be of cultural or religious importance to Native American groups. However, if human remains are discovered as part of project construction or other ground - disturbing activities, the project applicant and/or contractor would notify the City and immediately halt work at the site. The county coroner would be notified according to California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98 and California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the coroner would notify the Native American Heritage Commission and the procedures outlined in CEQA Section 15064.5(d) and (e) would be followed. Additionally, the City requires the presence of an on-site monitor for discretionary projects involving ground disturbance or excavation of soil. Therefore, because of compliance with state laws, this impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.4-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Directly or Indirectly Destroy a Unique Paleontological Resource, Site, or Geologic Feature? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources, sites, or unique geologic features. This impact would be potentially significant. As described in Appendix C-7, no known fossil localities have been recorded within the city in the NHMLAC database. However, three fossil localities of the same sedimentary deposits (older Quaternary terrace deposits) that currently underlie the entire city have been found nearby. These localities have yielded fossils of horses, a marine whale, and a mammoth at depths between 15 to 35 feet below surface. Previous research also indicated that a Rancholabrean- age tooth of an extinct llama was found at the Redondo Beach Generating Station (located adjacent to but outside of the planning area) at a depth of approximately 30 feet below surface. A fossil horse tooth was also found near the Redondo Beach Generating Station at a depth of about 35 feet below surface. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-17 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Subsequent projects in Hermosa Beach could result in damage to paleontological resources located at or near previously undisturbed ground surfaces as a result of construction. In addition, infrastructure and other improvements requiring ground disturbance could result in damage to or destruction of paleontological resources buried below the ground surface. Paleontological resources have the potential to contribute to the regional geological and paleontological record of the region and may be of scientific importance to researchers. Land Use + Design Element Policy 10.10 directs the City to recognize the prehistory and history of Hermosa Beach and strive to identify, protect, and preserve paleontological resources. The proper handling of discovered resources and enforcement of applicable state and federal laws and regulations would qualify as the directed maintenance of paleontological resources. Much of the planning area is built out, and most new development pursuant to PLAN Hermosa would therefore take place above ground on previously disturbed land, thereby minimizing the potential to disturb paleontological resources. Very little land in Hermosa is undisturbed, and even less of that land would be available for redevelopment since it is currently designated as open space, beach, or other public amenity and would not be built on. Although efforts would be made to identify and mitigate impacts to potential paleontological resources prior to ground disturbance, there is no way to know if significant paleontological resources occur below undisturbed ground surfaces. Therefore, this impact would be potentially significant. Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-3 As a standard condition of approval for future development projects implemented under PLAN Hermosa that involve ground disturbance or excavation: • For any project where earthmoving or ground disturbance activities are proposed at depths that encounter older Quaternary terrace deposits, a qualified paleontologist shall be present during excavation or earthmoving activities. • If paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the construction crew shall immediately cease work in the vicinity of the find and notify the City. The project applicant(s) shall retain a qualified paleontologist to evaluate the resource and prepare a recovery plan in accordance with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology guidelines (1996). The recovery plan may include, but is not limited to, a field survey, construction monitoring, sampling and data recovery procedures, museum storage coordination for any specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the recovery plan that are determined by the lead agency to be necessary and feasible shall be implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the paleontological resources were discovered. Significance After Mitigation With implementation mitigation measure MM 4.4-3, PLAN Hermosa would provide for the appropriate treatment and/or preservation of paleontological resources, if encountered. For instance, a paleontological resource evaluation would consist of a paleontological resources records search through the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, a pedestrian survey of the project site (if applicable), a review of the land use history, and a review of geologic mapping and/or geotechnical reports. At that point, appropriate mitigation would be developed and implemented to mitigate impacts on the paleontological resource. Therefore, potentially significant impacts on paleontological resources would be reduced to less than significant. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-18 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES IMPACT 4.4-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause a Substantial Change in the Significance of a Historical Resource? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Although implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and actions would protect historical resources, this would be a potentially significant impact. The City of Hermosa Beach adopted a preservation ordinance in 1998, which outlines the landmark designation criteria, the nomination and application requirements for local landmarks, and the certificate of appropriateness requirements. Under the City's current policies and preservation ordinance, only resources that are officially listed federal, state, or local landmarks are protected. In Hermosa Beach, local landmarks can only be nominated by the City Council or the property owner; a landmark cannot be nominated by members of the community. The City does not have a dedicated historic preservation commission. Instead, the City Council carries out the duties of a historic preservation commission by designating landmarks and conducting preservation design review. Since adoption of the preservation ordinance, only one historical resource has been formally designated as a local landmark, the Bijou Building. Also, the historic preservation code identifies two additional buildings, the Bank of America Building (90 Pier Avenue) and the Hermosa Hotel (20-26 Pier Avenue), which require preservation design review for any proposed alterations. Any alterations to city landmarks or potential landmarks on a list of historic resources established by the City must first apply for a certificate of appropriateness. The City does not have a comprehensive list of potentially eligible historic properties over 45 years old. During the preparation of the City's General Plan Land Use Element in 1994, 28 historical resources and two historic districts were identified as potentially eligible; however, some of these potential resources have been demolished or substantially altered. Furthermore, this list is now over 20 years old and many additional properties now meet the age threshold for consideration that would have not been considered in 1994. A new windshield survey was conducted to examine existing conditions and identify examples of property types, styles, and methods of construction that represent key periods of development in Hermosa Beach. Subsequent public and private projects under PLAN Hermosa could lead to the demolition of historic or potentially eligible historic buildings and structures. PLAN Hermosa states that approximately 67 percent of the city's total land area is improved with residential uses, with the remaining land uses defined by commercial (7 percent), light industrial (4 percent), institutional (22 percent), and vacant land (0.5 percent). As such, the greatest concentration of historical resources (60 percent), as described above, is located in the residential use areas and is subject to redevelopment pressures. In regard to the Walk Street, Sand Section, North End, and Hermosa Hills neighborhoods, PLAN Hermosa describes the future vision of these neighborhoods as preserving building form and scale, maintaining neighborhood connectivity, orienting buildings toward the street or walk streets, and enhancing multimodal connectivity and access. Additionally, development in commercial, industrial, and civic center areas of Hermosa Beach could result in damage to or demolition of other historical resources. The Civic Center Complex was surveyed as potentially eligible at the local level during the windshield survey; however, PLAN Hermosa describes a transformation of the building orientation and design, the modernization of facilities, and construction of parking facilities in the Civic Center District. The light industrial area named the Cypress District is proposed to be re -envisioned, with emphasis placed on the transformation of the building design and orientation and the public realm and streetscape in the area. PLAN Hermosa's vision of the Downtown District along Pier Avenue and City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-19 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Hermosa Avenue appears to be the retention of the buildings that are "iconic and historic in nature, and new buildings are carefully integrated to retain the town's eclectic charm." Provisions of the City's current preservation ordinance (Municipal Code Section 17.53) would not prevent the demolition or impairment of a historic building or structures that are not formally designated as a landmark under the City's preservation ordinance or listed on the City's potential historical resources list, but that meet the definition of historical resource for the purpose of CEQA. Demolition of such a historical resource would be a significant impact under CEQA. Furthermore, it is possible that some structures that have not yet been surveyed could be eligible historical resources. The Land Use + Design Element of PLAN Hermosa lists a number of policies to encourage and strengthen historic preservation in the city, including Policies 10.1 through 10.10. PLAN Hermosa Policies 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, and 10.6 would encourage the voluntary designation of potentially eligible historic resources as landmarks or historic districts, discourage the inappropriate alteration or demolition of designated landmarks, require the evaluation of historic resources associated with discretionary projects prior to demolition, and provide incentives for preservation of historic resources. The implementation actions set forth in PLAN Hermosa recommend a number of programs to support the goals and policies described above. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions requiring the identification and protection of historic resources, along with adherence to existing federal, state, and City regulations, would provide greater protections to locally designated and potential historical resources. Other implementation actions address amending CEQA documentation and the initial study program to ensure historic resources are adequately addressed (LAND USE -13). However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not prevent the demolition of or substantial adverse change to potentially eligible historic buildings and structures that qualify as historical resources pursuant to CEQA, but have not been formally designated under the City's preservation ordinance or listed on the City's potential landmark list. Therefore, this impact would be potentially significant. Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-4a The City shall require project applicants of discretionary projects to conduct historical resources studies, surveys, and assessment reports on a project -by - project basis, when a project proposes to alter, demolish, or degrade a designated landmark or a potential historic landmark as defined by Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 17.53. MM 4.4-4b The City shall maintain the "Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach" guide, and shall update the guide so that it is informed by current resource data and its goals and policies are consistent with the Land Use + Design Element. MM 4.4-4c The City shall develop procedures and nomination applications to facilitate and streamline the designation of local historic sites and historic districts. MM 4.4-4d Historical resources . studies, surveys, and assessment reports shall be performed by persons who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation (48 CFR 44716). Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-4d would reduce impacts on historical resources to the extent feasible. However, impacts on potentially eligible historic structures could occur depending on the proposed uses, the cost of rehabilitation, and safety PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-20 • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES considerations. Thus, it may not be feasible in all circumstances to rehabilitate a structure and retain its historic significance. Given this uncertainty and the small and dense size of the city limiting the options for alternate locations, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The geographic context for cumulative impacts on archaeological resources, human remains, paleontological resources, and cultural resources is future development in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area. Many of these locations are in the PLAN Hermosa planning area and share common historic, archaeological, and paleontological characteristics. IMPACT 4.4-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Archaeological Resources? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of an archaeological resource. The loss of some archaeological resources may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. PLAN Hermosa also includes implementation actions to minimize impacts by requiring archaeological investigations on previously undisturbed lands, and requiring the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. These implementation actions would ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Future development could include ground -disturbing activities on previously undisturbed land that could affect archaeological resources. The cumulative effect would be the loss of prehistoric cultural resources. Future development would increase the likelihood that archaeological resources could be discovered. However, implementation action LAND USE -21 would require archaeological investigations, as necessary, by a qualified archaeologist for projects subject to CEQA involving ground -disturbing activities for areas not previously surveyed and/or that are determined sensitive for cultural resources and would require preparation and implementation of a treatment plan if buried resources would be affected by a proposed project. Therefore, cumulative development would not result in the demolition or destruction of archaeological resources, which could contribute to the erosion of the prehistoric record of the planning area and the region and this would be less than cumulatively considerable impact. Mitigation Measure None required. IMPACT 4.4-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Human Remains? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could disturb human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries. The Toss of some human remains may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa includes implementation actions to minimize impacts by requiring archaeological investigations on previously undisturbed lands, and requiring the preservation of any discovered archaeologically significant resources. These implementation actions would ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-21 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES Future development could include ground -disturbing activities on previously undisturbed land that could potentially affect human remains. The cumulative effect would be the loss of human remains. Future development would increase the likelihood that human remains could be discovered. However, implementation action LAND USE -21 would require archaeological investigations, as necessary, by a qualified archaeologist for projects subject to CEQA involving ground -disturbing activities for areas not previously surveyed and/or that are determined sensitive for cultural resources and would require preparation and implementation of a treatment plan if buried resources would be affected by a proposed project. Therefore, cumulative development would not result in the demolition or destruction of human remains, which could contribute to the erosion of the prehistoric record of the planning area and the region. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.4-7 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Paleontological Resources? Ground disturbance, earthmoving, and excavation activities associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa combined with construction activities in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could damage previously unknown unique paleontological resources. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. Portions of the city are underlain by potentially fossil -bearing Pleistocene non -marine sediment and Holocene alluvium. Significant fossils, including unique specimens and vertebrate remains, have been discovered in Pleistocene and Holocene sediments throughout the Los Angeles area, ranging from finds at the La Brea Tar Pits to mastodon and other fossils discovered in western Riverside County during the construction of Diamond Valley Lake. Excavations and ground - disturbing activities on these sediments throughout the region would disturb significant paleontological resources. This cumulative impact would be cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures Implement mitigation measure MM 4.4-3. Significance After Mitigation Ground disturbance, earthmoving, and excavation activities would occur under PLAN Hermosa and in the South Bay Cities COG planning area. As discussed above, mitigation measure MM 4.4-3 would reduce impacts on paleontological resources by requiring that fossil specimens be recovered and recorded and undergo appropriate curation, in the event that resources are encountered during construction activities in Hermosa Beach. With implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.4-3, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to significant cumulative paleontological resources impacts would be offset and would result in a less than cumulatively considerable impact. IMPACT 4.4-8 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. The loss of some historical resources may be prevented through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and similar policies in other communities. However, this would PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-22 • 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES not ensure that these resources can be protected and preserved. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. Cumulative impacts on historical resources may occur under PLAN Hermosa when one or more goals or policies has the potential to impact several historical resources and would erode the historical character and significance of the built environment in Hermosa Beach such that the character of these resources would be compromised and no longer able to convey the resources' significant historical or architectural associations, resulting in a cumulatively significant impact. Additionally, the lack of strong historic preservation standards regionally could further result in the loss of specific architectural styles, such as the beach bungalow, that are representative of the historical character in the beach cities area. This impact would be cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures Implement mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-d. Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.4-4a through MM 4.4-4d would not ensure that historical resources would be protected and preserved. As described in the analysis presented in Impact 4.4-4, impacts on historic resources cannot be reduced to less than significant. Therefore, this impact would remain cumulatively considerable and significant and unavoidable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Final Environmental Impact Report 4.4-23 4.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES 4.4.5 REFERENCES California Office of Historic Preservation. 1995. Instructions for Recording Historical Resources. City of Hermosa Beach. 2011. Historical Resources in Hermosa Beach. htfo://www.hermosabch.orc/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=1351. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. National Park Service. 1985. National Register Bulletin 24: Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning. https://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/nrb24.pdf. 1990. National Register Bulletin 15: How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. https://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/nrbl5.pdf. 1997. National Register Bulletin 16: How to Complete the National Register Registration Form. https://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/nrbl6a.pdf. . n.d. Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties Website. https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Final Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.4-24 • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS i • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 4.5.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to geology and soils from implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes a review of regional geology, seismicity and faulting, and soils. Issues regarding water quality impacts from soil erosion are discussed in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies and implementation actions presented in the implementation plan guide development and infrastructure practices designed to protect residents and structures from seismic -related hazards. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing the geology and soils analysis. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource chapter is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (TBR) and other publicly available documents. The TBR prepared for the project is attached to this document as Appendix C. 4.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-9 describes the regional and local conditions related to geology and soils. Key findings of the environmental setting are presented below. GEOLOGY AND TOPOGRAPHY Hermosa Beach is located along the southwestern margin of the Los Angeles Basin and Coastal Plain. The Los Angeles Basin is an alluvial -filled basin bounded to the north and east by the Santa Monica, San Gabriel, and Santa Ana mountains and to the west and south by the Pacific Ocean and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The planning area is underlain by Holocene -age dune sands located west of the adjacent older alluvial deposits of the Los Angeles Basin. Beneath the surficial dune sands is the Pleistocene -age San Pedro Formation, consisting of unconsolidated and semi -consolidated stratified sands with some clays, silts, and gravels. The late Pliocene -age Pico Formation, consisting of marine siltstones and sandstones, sits beneath the San Pedro Formation. Beneath the Pico Formation is the early Pliocene -age Repetto Formation, consisting of siltstones with layers of sandstones and conglomerates. Beneath the Repetto Formation is the Miocene -age Puente Formation, which contains the primary oil reservoir in the planning area (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). Hermosa Beach sits at the southwest end of Santa Monica Bay and ranges in elevation from sea level in the west to about 200 feet above sea level at inland locations (USGS 1981). SEISMIC HAZARDS The primary seismic hazards in the city are fault ground ruptures and ground shaking. Secondary seismic hazards include liquefaction, lateral spreading, differential settlement, landslide -induced earthquakes, and subsidence. Seismic Ground Shaking and Fault Rupture Earthquakes can cause strong ground shaking that may damage property and infrastructure. The strength of an earthquake is generally expressed in two ways: magnitude and intensity. The magnitude is a measure that depends on the seismic energy radiated by the earthquake as City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-1 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS recorded on seismographs. The intensity at a specific location is a measure that depends on the effects of the earthquake on people or buildings and is used to' express the severity of ground shaking. The most commonly used scale to measure earthquake intensities (ground shaking and damage) is the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale, which measures the intensity of an earthquake's effects in a given locality and is based on observations of earthquake effects at specific places. On the MMI Scale, values range from Ito XII (see Table 4.5-1). While an earthquake has only one magnitude, it can have various intensities, which decrease with distance from the epicenter and vary depending on the underlying soil conditions (CGS 2002). Table 4.5-1 provides descriptions of the effects of ground shaking intensities along with a general range of moment magnitudes that are often associated with those intensities. TABLE 4.5-1 EFFECTS OF RICHTER MAGNITUDE AND MODIFIED MERCALLI INTENSITY Mw Modified Mercalli Scale Effects of Intensity 1.0-3.0 I I. Not felt except by a very few under especially favorable conditions. 3.0-3.9 II—III II. Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors of buildings. Delicately suspended objects may swing. III. Felt quite noticeably by persons indoors, especially on upper floors of buildings. Many people do not recognize it as an earthquake. Standing motor cars may rock slightly. Vibrations similar to the passing of a truck. Duration estimated. 4.0.9 IV—V IV. Felt indoors by many, outdoors by few during the day. At night, some awakened. Dishes, windows, doors disturbed; walls make cracking sound. Sensation like heavy truck striking building. Standing motor cars rocked noticeably. V. Felt by nearly everyone, many awakened. Some dishes, windows, etc., broken; a few instances of cracked plaster; unstable objects overturned. Disturbances of trees, poles, and other tall objects sometimes noticed. Pendulum clocks may stop. 5.0-5.9 VI—VII VI. Felt by all, many frightened. Some heavy furniture moved; a few instances of fallen plaster. Damage slight. VII. Everybody runs outdoors. Damage negligible in building of good design and construction; slight to moderate in well-built ordinary structures; considerable in poorly built or badly designed structures; some chimneys broken. Noticed by persons driving motor cars. 6.0-6.9 VIII—IX VIII. Damage slight in specially designed structures; considerable in ordinary substantial buildings, with partial collapse; great in poorly built structures. Panel walls thrown out of frame structures. Fall of chimneys, factory stacks, columns, monuments, walls. Heavy furniture overturned. Sand and mud ejected in small amounts. Changes in well water. Persons driving motor cars disturbed. IX. Damage considerable in specially designed structures; well-designed frame structures thrown out of plumb; great in substantial buildings, with partial collapse. Buildings shifted off foundations. Ground cracked conspicuously. Underground pipes broken. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Mw Modified Mercalli Scale Effects of Intensity X. Some well-built wooden structures destroyed; most masonry and frame structures destroyed with foundations; ground badly cracked. Rails bent. Landslides considerable from river banks and steep slopes. Shifted sand and mud. Water splashed (slopped) over banks. 7.0 and X higher XI' Few, if any, (masonry) structures remain standing. Bridges destroyed. Broad fissures higher or in ground. Underground pipelines completely out of service. Earth slumps and land slips in soft ground. Rails bent greatly. XII. Damage total. Practically all works of construction are damaged greatly or destroyed. Waves seen on ground surface. Lines of sight and level are distorted. Objects are thrown upward into the air. Source: CGS 2002 Faults are classified as "active" and "potentially active." An active fault is one that has had surface displacement within Holocene time (about the last 11,000 years), while a potentially active fault is one that has been active during Quaternary time (last 1,600,000 years). These definitions are used in delineating Special Studies Zones as mandated by the 1994 Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act.' A fault rupture is the sudden release of elastic energy that results from the sliding of one part of the earth's crust past another. The resulting fracture is known as a fault, while the sliding movement of earth on either side of a fault is called fault rupture. The planning area is not located in a fault -rupture hazard zone, as defined by the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act (CGS 2010). Based on information from the California Geological Survey (2010), no known major active faults are located in the planning area. The closest active faults are the Newport -Inglewood fault, approximately 5 miles to the east, and the Palos Verdes fault, approximately 2 miles to the west (CGS 2010). An inactive offshore fault, named Offshore Fault 103, is approximately 1.4 miles west of the planning area (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). Figure 4.5-1 (Regional Faults) shows the location of the planning area relative to mapped active and potentially active faults in Southern California. Historic records indicate that the planning area has experienced seismic ground shaking from a number of seismic events over the last century and a half. For example, the 1933 Long Beach earthquake, which occurred on the nearby Newport -Inglewood fault, caused serious damage to weak masonry structures and killed 115 people throughout the region. The earthquake had an estimated moment magnitude of M6.4 on the Richter scale (City of Hermosa Beach 2014; USGS 2013b; Southern California Earthquake Data Center 2014). 1 The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act requires the California State Geologist to establish regulatory zones now known as Earthquake Fault Zones; prior to January 1, 1994, these zones were known as Special Studies Zones. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-3 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS FIGURE 4.5-1 REGIONAL FAULTS • •••••.*•- Santa' Monica ^�3 -; Los.`" ngeles • • t1 or Manhattan Beach Hermosa Beach;' 1 4A 4L.il .• r. r+c4d • • 11 5 Wes Legend 1=1 Mar not. r,a Zcrw -- Acrovtry LO'-tP fn t ha -.t �— Sans ••• "Iv LDc rid r,.* text ..a4 rest 7tint Source: CGS 2010 1. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.5-4 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Landslides A landslide is the downhill movement of masses of earth material under the force of gravity. Factors contributing to landslide potential include steep slopes, unstable terrain, and proximity to earthquake faults. This process typically involves surface soil and an upper portion of underlying bedrock. Movement may be very rapid or so slow that a change of position can be noted only over a period of weeks or years. The size of a landslide can range from several square feet to several square miles. There are several landslide zones in Hermosa Beach, as shown on Figure 4.5-2 (Landslide and Liquefaction Zones). These zones have a potential for permanent ground displacement, based on previous landslide movement or local topographic, geological, geotechnical, or subsurface water conditions. They are identified as follows: one near South Park, east of Monterey Boulevard between 2nd Street and 6th Street; one on the city's southern border at the intersection of Valley Drive and Ardmore Avenue; one to the north of Gould Avenue between Ardmore Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway (State Route [SR] 1); and one on the western border of the city between 8th Street and 6th Street. An additional landslide zone is located just east of the city limits between Havemeyer Lane and Haynes Lane in Redondo Beach (DOC 1999). Future development in these zones requires mitigation of potential landslide hazards. Liquefaction Liquefaction is the loss of soil strength caused by a sudden increase in pore water pressure during shaking and is one of the most destructive secondary effects of seismic shaking. Liquefaction occurs primarily in saturated and loose, fine- to medium -grained soils. Liquefaction occurs most often where groundwater lies within 30 feet of the surface, but it may also occur in areas where groundwater is up to 50 feet beneath the surface. In general, the entire planning area west of Hermosa Avenue may include potentially liquefiable layers, as shown on Figure 4.5-2. A liquefaction zone is also identified in the southern portion of the planning area near the northeast corner of Monterey Boulevard and Herondo Street. If groundwater levels in these areas rise to within 30 to 50 feet of the ground surface, the sediments would have a moderate to high susceptibility for liquefaction. The highest water levels recorded in Hermosa Beach are measured at 10 feet deep along the coast (DOC 1998). The type of soil present along the city's coastal area indicates the potential for large liquefiable areas. This area could become larger as the sea level rises and causes groundwater tables to rise as well. For more information on sea level rise, please refer to Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. Lateral Spreading Lateral spreading occurs as a result of liquefaction in which a subsurface layer becomes a liquefied mass, and gravitational and inertial forces cause the mass to move downslope. Development within landslide or liquefaction zones generally requires additional design considerations of different construction methods. This type of secondary seismic hazard is not expected to occur, as most of the liquefaction areas in the city are located in relatively flat areas (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-5 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS FIGURE 4.5-2 LANDSLIDE AND LIQUEFACTION ZONES Legend (n C p rixritry Camda! :try tI r, w' t14.rta:nm xat* ta,,,... Y+1x.11."16A0v twir Source: CGS 2010 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.5-6 • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Differential Settlement Differential settlement is a process whereby soils settle non -uniformly, potentially resulting in stress and damage to structures. Native earth materials in Hermosa Beach are relatively dense and therefore not prone to seismically induced settlement (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). SOILS The California Department of Conservation (DOC) prepared soil maps for the state of California by US Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle; the planning area lies within the Redondo Beach quadrangle. The oldest Quaternary geologic unit mapped in the Redondo Beach quadrangle is the Pleistocene San Pedro Formation. The only identified soil substrate mapped in the planning area is Quaternary Older Alluvium (DOC 1998). Erosion Soil erosion is a process whereby soil materials are worn away and transported to another area by either wind or water. Rates of erosion can vary depending on the soil material and structure, placement, and human activity. In the planning area, opportunities for accelerated erosion include the steepening of slopes, removing ground cover, and other human -induced activities associated with construction and landscaping. Expansive Soils Expansive soils consist largely of clays, which greatly increase in volume when saturated with water and shrink when dried. It does not appear that expansive clays or soils exhibiting shrink -swell characteristics underlie the planning area. However, since no citywide soil report exists, expansive and collapsible soils are analyzed on a project -by -project basis. 4.5.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to geology and soils in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing aspects of geology and soils that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory framework for geology and soils is discussed in detail in Appendix C-9. The following summarizes key regulations used to reduce potential environmental impacts of implementing PLAN Hermosa. FEDERAL • Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act: US Congress passed the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act in 1977 to reduce the risks to life and property from future earthquakes in the United States through the establishment and maintenance of an effective earthquake hazards reduction program. To accomplish this goal, the act established the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program. This program was substantially amended in November 1990 by the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Act, which refined the description of agency responsibilities, program goals, and objectives. STATE • Alquist-Priolo Act: The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act was created to prohibit the location of structures designed for human occupancy across the traces of active faults (lines of surface rupture), thereby reducing the loss of life and property from an earthquake. The planning area does not contain Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones (CGS 2010). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-7 43 GEOLOGY AND SOILS • Seismic Hazards Mapping Act: The 1990 Seismic Hazards Mapping Act (Public Resources Code Sections 2690-2699.6) addresses hazards such as strong ground shaking, earthquake -induced landslides, and, in some areas, zones of amplified shaking. The act established a mapping program for areas that have the potential for liquefaction, landslide, strong ground shaking, or other earthquake and geologic hazards. The California Geological Survey (CGS) is the primary state agency charged with implementing the act and provides local jurisdictions with the seismic hazard zone maps that identify areas susceptible to liquefaction, earthquake -induced landslides, and amplified shaking. • California Building Code (CBC): The California Building Standards Commission is responsible for coordinating, managing, adopting, and approving building codes in California. The 2013 CBC became effective on January 1, 2014, and updated all the subsequent codes under the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24 (24 CCR), which provides minimum standards for building design. The State requires local governments to adopt Title 24 on a triennial basis. Where no other building codes apply, Chapters 16, 17, 18, 20, and 21 of the 2010 CBC regulate excavation, foundations, and retaining walls. • California Coastal Act: The California Coastal Act of 1972 created the California Coastal Commission to enact policies and standards in its coastal development permit decisions. Among many issues, the Coastal Commission and the coastal development permit program protect against Toss of life and property in the Coastal Zone from coastal hazards, including geologic hazards (Section 30006.5, Public Resources Code, Division 20, California Coastal Act). Section 30262(5) of the act also provides that "development will not cause or contribute to subsidence hazards unless it is determined that adequate measures will be undertaken to prevent damage from such subsidence." LOCAL • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: Chapter 15.36 of the Municipal Code promotes public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death or injury that may result from the effects of earthquakes on existing unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings. The provisions of the chapter require existing seismically unreinforced buildings to be retrofitted and provide minimum seismic reinforcement standards for new buildings. • City of Hermosa Beach Building Requirements: The City requires developers to submit a geotechnical report before starting construction on new buildings. As mentioned above, groundwater levels under sites located west of Hermosa Avenue can be as shallow as 10 feet from the surface. The geotechnical reports ensure that new developments appropriately consider and design geological, soil, and seismic safety conditions for each project site. 43.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on geology and soils are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of Toss, injury, or death, involving: a) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault. Refer to California Geological Survey (formerly Division of Mines and Geology) Special Publication 42. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.5-8 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS • b) Strong seismic ground shaking. c) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction. d) Landslides. 2) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. 3) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse. 4) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property. 5) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater. The City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code does not include provisions for new development with on-site septic systems and there are no existing individual septic systems within the city. Therefore, there would be no impact related to the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems. This topic will not be discussed further in this EIR. ANALYSIS APPROACH The impact analysis of PLAN Hermosa implementation evaluates geological hazards and their potential to affect future development. The following impact analysis is based on a review of published information, surveys, and reports regarding regional geology and soils. Information was obtained from private and governmental agencies and Internet websites, including the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the California Geological Survey, and the US Geological Survey. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that reduce potential geology and soils impacts include the following: Policies Public Safety Element • 1.1 Evaluate risks. Buildings and infrastructure will be periodically evaluated for seismic, fire, flood, and coastal storm hazard risks and identified risks will be minimized by complying with California Building Code standards and other applicable regulations. • 1.2 Prepare geotechnical reports. Geotechnical reports will be prepared for new development projects in areas with the potential for liquefaction or landslide. • 1.9 Facilitate retrofits. Encourage and facilitate retrofits of seismically high-risk buildings. • 1.10 Consider site-specific soil conditions. Require new structures to consider site-specific soil conditions. Implementation Actions SUSTAINABILITY -16. Revise the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure it reflects up-to-date practices to reduce potential for soil erosion and ways to minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on the loss of topsoil. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.5-9 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS • SUSTAINABILITY -17. Develop a citywide expansive and corrosive soils screening tool to reduce the need for site-specific soil reports. • SAFETY -l. Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate local amendments. • SAFETY -2. Continue to inventory unreinforced brick masonry, soft -story, and other seismically vulnerable private buildings. Identify potential funding sources to assist with seismic retrofits. • SAFETY -3. Enforce seismic design provisions of the current California Building Standards Code related to geologic, seismic, and slope hazards, with appropriate local amendments. • SAFETY -4. For properties identified as possibly containing acidic, expansive, or collapsible soils, require site-specific soil condition reports and appropriate mitigation as a condition of new development. • SAFETY -6. Evaluate the landslide potential of a project site and require implementation of landslide mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, areas prone to landslide are found. Potential landslide mitigation measures include, but are not limited to the following: • Avoidance: Developments should be built sufficiently far away from the threat that they will not be affected even if a landslide does occur. • Reduction: Reduction of landslide hazards should be achieved by increasing the factor of safety of the landslide area to an acceptable level, based on current engineering standards and practices. This can be accommodated by eliminating slopes with active/inactive landslides, removing the unstable soil and rock materials, or applying one or more appropriate slope stabilization methods (such as buttress fills, subdrains, soil nailing, crib walls, etc.). • SAFETY -7. Require projects located within the Liquefaction Areas identified in PLAN Hermosa to evaluate the liquefaction potential and require implementation of mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, shallow groundwater (60 feet or less) and potentially liquefiable soils are found. Potential liquefaction mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, soil densification or compaction, displacement or compaction grouting, and use of post -tensioned slab foundations, piles, or caissons. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.5-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose People or Structures to Substantial Adverse Effects Associated with Fault Rupture and Seismic Hazards? PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city, including buildings and structures that would potentially expose people and structures to seismic hazards. Implementation of existing laws, regulations, and policies, as outlined in the Regulatory Setting subsection, and PLAN Hermosa policies would minimize seismic hazards impacts to people and structures to a less than significant level. As previously discussed, the planning area is located in a seismically active area and could experience seismic ground shaking and seismic -related ground failure (i.e., liquefaction and landslides) from earthquakes on active faults. The city is already developed, and people and structures in Hermosa Beach are subject to both existing primary and secondary geological hazards. To prevent loss of life and property, the City of Hermosa Beach adopted the California Building Code as outlined in Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the City's Municipal Code. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.5-10 • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS The current adopted CBC includes design criteria for seismic loading and other geologic hazards, including design criteria for geologically induced loading from geological hazards. While shaking impacts could be potentially damaging, they would also be reduced in their impacts due to CBC criteria that recognize this potential. The CBC includes provisions for buildings to structurally survive an earthquake without collapsing and includes measures such as anchoring to the foundation and structural frame design. Additionally, Chapter 15.36 of the City's Municipal Code requires existing seismically unreinforced buildings to be retrofitted. This requirement would apply to infill development or redevelopment that would reuse existing buildings considered "high risk buildings" (as defined in Municipal Code Section 15.36.030) that have at least one unreinforced masonry bearing wall (Section 15.36.020). PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would further protect people and structures from risks associated with seismic -related hazards. For instance, Public Safety Element Policy 1.1 would require that all new buildings and infrastructure be evaluated for seismic hazard risks, while Policy 1.2 requires geotechnical reports be prepared for new development projects in areas with the potential for liquefaction or landslides. Additionally, implementation actions SAFETY -6 and SAFETY -7 require that future project sites be evaluated for landslide and liquefaction potential. The site-specific geotechnical investigations and actions SAFETY -6 and SAFETY -7 would ensure that proposed buildings developed under PLAN Hermosa are properly designed to address these constraints. Thus, while PLAN Hermosa would result in the exposure of people to dangers associated with earthquakes, applicable building standards and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would minimize these dangers. The plan would not increase the potential for seismic activity or the inherent risks that come with living in a seismically active region. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.5-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Result in Substantial Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil? PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city, which would entail ground -disturbing activities that could lead to soil loss. Compliance with existing policies regarding soil erosion and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would minimize impacts associated with erosion and loss of topsoil. This impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa implementation could result in actions that would require soil -disturbing activities such as grading, hillside construction, and other activities that could accelerate soil erosion and expose topsoil. Landscaping activities could also result in soil exposure and limited soil erosion. However, all construction activities would be required to comply with CBC Chapter 70 standards, which would ensure implementation of appropriate measures during soil -disturbing activities to reduce erosion. Project construction would also comply with City Municipal Code grading and erosion standards, as outlined in Chapter 8.44, Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations. PLAN Hermosa implementation actions SUSTAINABILITY -16 and SAFETY -1 would further reduce erosion associated with future construction by requiring the City to update both the Municipal Code and the building code to reflect the most up-to-date practices for soil erosion prevention. Additionally, development involving clearing, grading, or excavation that causes soil disturbance of 1 or more acres, or a project involving less than 1 acre that is part of a larger development plan and includes clearing, grading, or excavation, is subject to provisions of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) State General Permit (Order No. 2009-0009), as discussed in City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-11 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. Any development of this size in the planning area would be required to prepare and comply with an approved stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP considers the full range of erosion control best management practices, including any additional site-specific and seasonal conditions. Such existing requirements would significantly reduce the potential for substantial erosion or topsoil loss to occur in association with new development. Since erosion impacts are often dependent on the type of development, intensity of development, and amount of lot coverage of a particular project site, impacts can vary. However, compliance with existing standards and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would minimize the potential for soil erosion and loss of topsoil. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.5-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Locate Structures on Unstable and Expansive Soils? PLAN Hermosa would provide for and regulate future development and reuse projects in the city. Because Hermosa Beach has a low potential for expansive soils and PLAN Hermosa contains policies to minimize development in areas with unstable or expansive soils, this impact would be less than significant. As discussed above, it does not appear that expansive clays or soils exhibiting shrink -swell characteristics are present in the planning area. As such, the potential for exposure to these types of hazards from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would be low. Additionally, the CBC and other related construction standards apply seismic requirements and address certain grading activities. The CBC includes common engineering practices requiring special design and construction methods that reduce or eliminate potential expansive soil -related impacts. These methods can include overexcavation of foundations, import of more stable material, positive drainage systems, or changes in structure design to mitigate for unstable soils. Compliance with CBC regulations would ensure the adequate design and construction of building foundations to resist soil movement. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element implementation action SUSTAINABILITY -17 would require the City to develop a citywide screening tool to identify areas in which site-specific soil conditions reports may be needed. Such reports also include specific engineering design methods for construction in areas with these types of soils if necessary. Further, implementation action SAFETY -4 requires new structures to consider site-specific soil conditions. These measures would further reduce the potential for loss of life from development on expansive or unstable soils. Development under PLAN Hermosa would be designed and constructed in accordance with applicable engineering standards and local policies that address soil stability. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES Site-specific topography, soil conditions, and surrounding development determine geological and soil -related impacts, which generally are not considered cumulative in nature. For example, seismic events may damage or destroy a building, but the development of a new building would PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-12 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS not cause other areas to be more susceptible to seismic hazards. However, erosion and sediment deposition can be cumulative in nature, depending on the type and amount of development proposed in a given geographical area. The cumulative setting for soil erosion consists of existing, planned, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable land use conditions in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area. IMPACT 4.5-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Geologic and Soil Hazards Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in addition to other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development projects in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, may result in cumulative soil erosion impacts. However, compliance with existing regulations intended to reduce soil erosion during construction would reduce this impact to less than cumulatively considerable. PLAN Hermosa's intent is to minimize soil erosion through implementation of new policies and continued strengthening of existing policies. As discussed above, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not lead to substantial soil erosion or topsoil loss. It would also not result in any changes to existing federal, state, and city policies and standards regulating soil erosion. As such, compliance with existing City policies and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would offset Hermosa Beach's contribution to cumulative soil erosion impacts. Further, new development in the region would have to abide by CBC regulations. Additionally, and as described above, all development involving clearing, grading, or excavation that causes soil disturbance of 1 or more acres, or any project involving less than 1 acre that is part of a larger development plan and includes clearing, grading, or excavation, would be subject to the State General Permit and would be required to prepare and implement an approved SWPPP containing erosion control measures. Because policies and programs included in PLAN Hermosa and existing federal and state regulations would reduce the potential for soil erosion and loss of topsoil, cumulative impacts would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.5-13 4.5 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 4.5.5 REFERENCES Cal OES (California Office of Emergency Services). 2013.2013 State Hazard Mitigation Plan. Accessed February 2014. http://hazardmitigation.calema.ca.gov/docs/SHMP_Final_2013.pdf. CGS (California Geological Survey). 1978. Fault Evaluation Report FER-43. . 1998. Seismic Hazard Report for the Redondo Beach 7.5 -Minute Quadrangle, Los Angeles County, California. . 2002. Note 32, How Earthquakes and Their Effects Are Measured. Sacramento: CGS. . 2010. Online Website Fault Maps and Special Publication 42, Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones. Accessed November 2015. ftp://ftp.consrv.ca.gov/pub/dmg/pubs/sp/Sp42.pdf. . 2015. Regulatory Maps. Accessed November 2015. http://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/informationwarehouse/index.html?map=regulatory maps. City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. EBB Oil Drilling & Production Project Final Environmental Impact Report. http://www.hermosabch.org/ftp/oil_docs/FEIR%20Hermosa%20beach%20011%20Project_ All%20Sections.pdf. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. DOC (California Department of Conservation). 1998. Seismic Hazard Zone Report for the Redondo Beach 7.5 -Minute Quadrangle, Los Angeles County, California. Accessed February 2014. http://gmw.consrv.ca.gov/shmp/download/quad/REDONDO_BEACH/reports/redob_ev al.pdf. 1999. State of California Seismic Hazard Zones Redondo Beach Quadrangle Official Map. Accessed February 2014. http://gmw.consrv.ca.gov/shmp/download/quad/REDONDO_BEACH/maps/ozn_redob. pdf. Los Angeles RWQCB (Regional Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region). 1995. Water Quality Control Plan, Los Angeles Region. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwgcb4 /water issues/programs/basin_plan/electronics_documents/bp 1_introduction.pdf. Southern California Earthquake Data Center. 2014. Significant Earthquakes and Faults, Chronological Earthquake Index, Long Beach Earthquake. Accessed February 2014. http://www.data.scec.org/significant/longbeach1933.html. USGS (US Geological Survey). 1981. Redondo Beach Quadrangle Topographic Map. Accessed January 2014. http://www.archive.org/download/usgs_drg_ca_33118_g4/o33118g4.tif. . 2013a. Earthquake Hazards Program, Banded Deaggregations. Accessed January 2014. http://egint.cr.usgs.gov/deaggband/2002/index.php. . 2013b. Magnitude Intensity Comparison. Accessed January 2014. http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/topics/mag_vs_int.php. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.5-14 • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 4.6.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section discusses PLAN Hermosa's contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the associated effects of climate change. Policies contained in the Land Use + Design, Mobility, Sustainability + Conservation, Parks + Open Space, and Infrastructure elements of PLAN Hermosa are intended to reduce the contribution of GHG emissions in Hermosa Beach from both community activities and municipal operations. The reader is referred to Section 4.2, Air Quality, for a discussion of project impacts associated with air quality. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) related to GHG emissions. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource chapter is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (TBR), the Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan, the Hermosa Beach Carbon Neutral Scoping Plan, the 2015 City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecasting, Target -Setting Report for an Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan, the Community Carbon Planning Tool, and other publicly available documents. The TBR is attached as Appendix C-5. 4.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Various gases in the earth's atmosphere, classified as atmospheric GHGs, play a critical role in determining the earth's surface temperature. Solar radiation enters the earth's atmosphere from space and a portion of the radiation is absorbed by the earth's surface. The earth emits this radiation back toward space, but the properties of the radiation change from high -frequency solar radiation to lower -frequency infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases, which are transparent to solar radiation, are effective in absorbing infrared radiation. As a result, the radiation that otherwise would have escaped back into space is now retained, resulting in a warming of the atmosphere. This is known as the greenhouse effect. Among the prominent GHGs contributing to the greenhouse effect are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). Each GHG differs in its ability to absorb heat in the atmosphere based on the lifetime, or persistence, of the gas molecule in the atmosphere. Methane traps over 21 times more heat per molecule than CO2, and N20 absorbs 310 times more heat per molecule than CO2. Often, estimates of GHG emissions are presented in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e), which weigh each gas by its global warming potential. Expressing GHG emissions in CO2e takes the contribution of all GHG emissions to the greenhouse effect and converts them to a single unit equivalent to the effect that would occur if only CO2 were being emitted. According to the California Association of Environmental Professionals (2015) Beyond 2020 whitepaper, scientific studies have demonstrated a causative relation between increasing man- made GHG emissions and a long-term trend in increasing global average temperatures. This conclusion is the consensus of the vast majority of climate scientists who publish in the field. The effects of past increases in temperature on the climate and the earth's resources are well documented in the scientific literature, which is best summarized in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) periodic reports, the latest of which is the Fifth Assessment Report, released in 2014. The IPCC's work to model and evaluate future climatic conditions indicates that if GHG emissions to continue to increase at current rates, there will be substantial adverse effects to both humans and the natural environment. Many scientific bodies around the world have concluded that avoiding the most severe outcomes of climate change will require keeping global average temperatures to rising no more than two degrees Celsius by the end of the City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-1 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS century and limiting carbon dioxide emissions to below 450 parts per million (IPCC 2014). In order to limit global temperature increases to two degrees Celsius, the IPCC and organizations like the Union of Concerned Scientists have indicated that the United States and other developed countries would need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions anywhere from 78 to 95 percent below 1990 levels, with most organizations identifying an approximately 80 percent reduction below 1990 levels by 2050 to provide stabilization at the two degree Celsius threshold (IPCC 2014). Although the State of California has taken action through legislation and executive orders to curb the generation or release of additional greenhouse gas emissions, the state still faces intensifying impacts of climate change in coming decades, as a result of emissions already released into the atmosphere (CNRA 2009a). The California Climate Adaptation Strategy indicates that California should expect overall hotter and drier conditions, with a continued reduction in winter snow (with concurrent increases in winter rains), as well as increased average temperatures and accelerating sea level rise. In addition to changes in average temperatures, sea level, and precipitation patterns, the intensity of extreme weather events is also changing (CNRA 2009a). Climate change temperature projections identified in the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy suggest the following: • Average temperature increase is expected to be more pronounced in the summer than in the winter season. • Inland areas are likely to experience more pronounced warming than coastal regions. • Heat waves are expected to increase in frequency, with individual heat waves also showing a tendency toward becoming longer and extending over a larger area, thus more likely to encompass multiple population centers in California at the same time. • Because GHGs remain in the atmosphere for decades, temperature changes over the next 30 to 40 years are already largely determined by past emissions. By 2050, temperatures are projected to increase by an additional 1.8 to 5.4°F [degrees Fahrenheit] (an increase one to three times as large as that which occurred over the entire twentieth century). • By 2100, the models project temperature increases between 3.6 and 9°F. (CNRA 2009a) According to the 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy, the impacts of climate change in California have the potential to include but are not limited to the areas discussed in Table 4.6-1 (Potential Statewide Impacts from Climate Change). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-2 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS TABLE 4.6-1 POTENTIAL STATEWIDE IMPACTS FROM CLIMATE CHANGE Potential Statewide Impact Description Public Health Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in ambient (i.e., outdoor) average air temperature, with greater increases expected in summer. Larger temperature increases are anticipated in inland communities as compared to the California coast. The potential health impacts from sustained and significantly higher than average temperatures include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and the exacerbation of existing medical conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, nervous system disorders, emphysema, and epilepsy. Numerous studies have indicated that there are generally more deaths during periods of sustained higher temperatures. The elderly, infants, and socially isolated people with pre-existing illnesses who lack access to air conditioning or cooling spaces are among the most at risk during heat waves. Floods and Droughts The impacts of flooding may include population displacement, severe psychosocial stress with resulting mental health impacts, exacerbation of pre-existing chronic conditions, and infectious disease. Additionally, impacts can range from a loss of personal belongings, and the emotional ramifications from such loss, to direct injury and/or mortality. Drinking water contamination outbreaks in the United States are associated with extreme precipitation events. Runoff from rainfall is also associated with coastal contamination that can lead to contamination of shellfish and contribute to food -borne illness. Floodwaters may contain household, industrial, and agricultural chemicals, as well as sewage and animal waste. Flooding and heavy rainfall events can wash pathogens and chemicals from contaminated soils, farms, and streets into drinking water supplies. Flooding may also overload storm and wastewater systems, or flood septic systems, also leading to possible contamination of drinking water systems. Drought impacts develop more slowly over time. Risks to public health that Californians may face from drought include impacts on water supply and quality, food production (both agricultural and commercial fisheries), and risks of waterborne illness. As surface water supplies are reduced as a result of drought conditions, the amount of groundwater pumping is expected to increase to make up for the water shortfall. The increase in groundwater pumping has the potential to lower the water tables and cause land subsidence. Communities that utilize well water will be adversely affected by drops in water tables or through changes in water quality. Groundwater supplies have higher levels of total dissolved solids compared to surface waters. This introduces a set of effects for consumers, such as repair and maintenance costs associated with mineral deposits in water heaters and other plumbing fixtures, and on public water system infrastructure designed for lower salinity surface water supplies. Drought may also lead to increased concentration of contaminants in drinking water supplies. Water Resources The state's water supply system already faces challenges to provide water for California's growing population. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these challenges through increased temperatures and possible changes in precipitation patterns. The trends of the last century, especially increases in hydrologic variability, will likely intensify in this century. The state can expect to experience more frequent and larger floods and deeper droughts. Rising sea level will threaten the Delta water conveyance system and increase salinity in near -coastal groundwater supplies. Forests and Landscapes Global climate change has the potential to intensify the current threat to forests and landscapes by increasing the risk of wildfire and altering the distribution and character of natural vegetation. If temperatures rise into the medium warming range, wildfire occurrence statewide could increase from 57 to 169 percent by 2085. However, since wildfire risk is determined by a combination of factors, including precipitation, winds, temperature, and landscape and vegetation conditions, future risks will not be uniform throughout the state. Source: CNRA 20090 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.6-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS EXISTING CONDITIONS Global and US Emissions Global emissions have continued to increase nearly every year since 2000, reaching 34.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2e) in 2012. The six largest emitting countries/regions were China (29 percent), the United States (15 percent), the European Union (11 percent), India (6 percent), the Russian Federation (5 percent), and Japan (2 percent) (PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency 2013). According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in March 2015 the monthly global average carbon dioxide concentration surpassed 400 parts per million (ppm) for the first time since tracking was initiated (NOAA 2015). This is considered a significant milestone, as it shows that humans burning fossil fuels have caused global carbon dioxide concentrations to rise more than 120 ppm since pre -industrial times around the year 1800 (NOAA 2015). Half of this rise has occurred since 1980. By February 2016, the monthly average had risen to 404.02 ppm (NOAA 2016). Recent assessments annual GHG emissions in the United States indicate that in 2014 emissions increased approximately 1 percent since 2013 to 6.8 billion MTCO2e. While the 1 percent increase is attributed to increased fuel use and miles traveled, it still represents an approximately 9 percent decrease in emissions from 2005 levels (EPA 2016). California Emissions California produced 441 million metric tons of CO2e (MMTCO2e) in 2014 (CARB 2016), representing nearly 7 percent of all US emissions and 2 percent of global emissions. In 2014, the consumption of fossil fuels in the transportation sector was the single largest source of GHG emissions in California, accounting for 37 percent of total GHG emissions in the state (CARB 2016). This category was followed by the industrial sector (24 percent) and the electric power sector, including both in-state and out-of-state sources (20 percent) (CARB 2016). FIGURE 4.6-1 CALIFORNIA GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2014 Electricity Generation (Imports) Electricity 8% Generation (In State) 12% Industrial 24% ransportation 37% Agriculture 8% Residential 6% Commercial 5% Not Specified <1% Source: CARB 2015 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-4 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS In 2014, total greenhouse gas emissions were 441.5 MMTCO2e, representing an overall decrease of 9.4 percent since peak levels in 2004. During the 2000 to 2014 period, per capita GHG emissions in California continued to drop from a peak in 2001 of 13.9 MTCO2e per person to 11.4 MTCO2e per person in 2014, an 18 percent decrease (CARB 2016). To curb statewide emissions, the State of California has taken numerous legislative actions, described in the Regulatory Setting subsection, and implemented several incentive -based programs to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions over the last 10 years. 400 O 2 2 300 N C 0 UI 200 ;E W I, w100 - FIGURE 4.6-2 CALIFORNIA GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS, 2000-2014 O .-- N m o O O O 8 O O N N N N N N Source: CARB 2014a 8N O O N N N N N N N N N cr 0 m Q E7 Recycling and Waste D High GWP El Agriculture [Commercial and Residential 13 Electric Power CI Industrial 17 Transportation The City of Hermosa Beach, working in conjunction with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, prepared greenhouse gas inventories for 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012 (City of Hermosa Beach 2015a). The inventories estimate emissions for on -road transportation, off-road equipment, residential and commercial energy use, solid waste generation, and water and wastewater emissions. The inventories were prepared consistent with industry protocols including the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, the Local Government Operations Protocol, and the California Association of Environmental Professionals whitepapers on inventorying, forecasting, and setting targets for GHG emissions. Transportation sector emissions . are the result of gasoline and diesel combustion in vehicles traveling to, from, or within Hermosa Beach, but exclude emissions associated with vehicles that pass through the city without stopping (City of Hermosa Beach 2015b). Residential and commercial energy use calculates the emissions generated by electricity and natural gas consumed by residences and commercial businesses within Hermosa Beach, while solid waste emissions are based on the amount of waste disposed in landfills, where it decomposes and generates methane. Finally, water and wastewater emissions are calculated by determining the energy needed to extract, transport, treat, and dispose of the water resources consumed by the community. Table 4.6-2 (Hermosa Beach Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Sector, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2012) illustrates Hermosa Beach's GHG inventory for the years 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012. In 2005, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-5 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Hermosa Beach generated approximately 137,160 metric tons of CO2e. On -road transportation, at 73,567 metric tons of CO2e, represented the largest share of emissions at 54 percent. In 2007, the city generated approximately 132,768 metric tons of CO2e, a 3.2 percent decrease from the total emissions in 2005. This decrease was attributed to fewer emissions from all emission categories. By 2012, the city had a reduction in emissions of 7.7 percent from the 2005 inventory, with emissions decreasing in most sectors. Between 2005 and 2012, the wastewater sector observed a small increase in emissions and the residential energy sector saw a nearly 5 percent increase in emissions. TABLE 4.6-2 HERMOSA BEACH GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2012 Sector 2005 (MTCO2e) % of Total 2007 (MTCO2e) % of Total 2010 (MTCO2e) % of Total 2012 (MTCO2e) % of Total On -Road Transportation 73,567 54% 71,863 54% 70,277 55% 68,235 54% Residential Energy 32,293 24% 31,964 24% 32,700 26% 33,808 27% Commercial Energy 20,280 15% 19,792 15% 18,372 14% 17,830 14% Solid Waste 6,015 4% 4,584 3% 3,510 3% 3,334 3% Water 4,065 3% 3,942 3% 2,552 2% 2,600 2% Off-road Sources 888 1% 588 <1% 419 <1% 745 <1% Wastewater 52 <1% 35 <1% 59 <1% 59 <1% Total 137,160 132,768 127,889 126,611 Change from 2005 -32% -6.8% -7.7% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 20156 On a per capita basis, the Hermosa Beach community generated 6.4 MTCO2e per year per resident in 2012, based on California Department of Finance estimates of 19,699 residents in 2012. The per capita estimates are lower than the California average of 11.9 MTCO2e per resident in 2014. 4.6.3 REGULATORY SETTING State and local laws, regulations, and policies provide a regulatory framework for addressing GHG emissions under PLAN Hermosa. Key laws, regulations, and policies helping to reduce local emissions are summarized below. STATE • The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill [AB] 32 and Senate Bill [SB] 32): AB 32 is the primary legislation that has driven GHG regulation and analysis in California between 2006 and 2016, by instructing the California Air Resource Board (CARB) to develop and enforce regulations for the reporting and verifying of statewide GHG emissions. The heart of the bill is the requirement that statewide GHG emissions be reduced to 1990 levels by 2020. Based on CARB's calculations of emissions levels, California must reduce GHG emissions by approximately 15 percent below 2005 levels to achieve this goal. In September 2016, the Governor signed SB 32, which builds upon the statewide targets for 2020 by establishing a longer-term target so that "statewide greenhouse gas emissions are reduced to 40 percent below the 1990 levels by 2030." The PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-6 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS bill further authorized CARB to adopt regulations to achieve the maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective greenhouse gas emissions reductions. • California Executive Orders S-3-05 (2005) and B-30-15 (2015): These two executive orders highlight longer-term GHG emissions reduction targets for the state, though such targets have not yet been adopted by the legislature and signed into law. Specifically, Executive Order (EO) S-3-05 seeks to achieve a reduction of GHG emissions of 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050, consistent with the scientific consensus that developed regions will need to reduce emissions at least 80 percent below 1990 levels to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius. Executive Order B-30-15 seeks to establish an interim target, between the 2020 target established through AB 32 and the long-term targets in EO S-3-05, to achieve a reduction of GHG emissions of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. • CEQA and Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Senate Bill 97): In 2007, the Natural Resources Agency was directed by the legislature to prepare amendments to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, providing direction to lead agencies on how to analyze and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, the amendments adopted in 2009 to the CEQA Guidelines helped to clarify the following: 1) Lead agencies must analyze the greenhouse gas emissions of proposed projects and must reach a conclusion regarding the significance of those emissions. (See CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4.) 2) When a project's greenhouse gas emissions may be significant, lead agencies must consider a range of potential mitigation measures to reduce those emissions. (See CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(c).) 3) Lead agencies must analyze potentially significant impacts associated with placing projects in hazardous locations, including locations potentially affected by climate change. (See CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(a).) 4) Lead agencies may significantly streamline the analysis of greenhouse gases on a project level by using a programmatic greenhouse gas emissions reduction plan meeting certain criteria. (See CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b).) 5) CEQA mandates analysis of a proposed project's potential energy use (including transportation -related energy), sources of energy supply, and ways to reduce energy demand, including through the use of efficient transportation alternatives. (See CEQA Guidelines Appendix F.) These amendments essentially provided two pathways for lead agencies to conduct GHG emissions analysis: (1) individually analyze and mitigate the greenhouse gas emissions generated by any project subject to CEQA, or (2) develop, at the programmatic level, a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy and require each project to demonstrate that the project is consistent with the strategy. The amendments to the CEQA Guidelines additionally outlined the components required for a public agency's GHG emissions reduction strategy in order to be deemed qualified. The requirements for a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy should: • Quantify greenhouse gas emissions, both existing and projected over a specified time period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area. • Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable. • Identify and analyze the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-7 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence demonstrates, if implemented on a project -by -project basis, would collectively achieve the specified emissions level. • Establish a mechanism to monitor the plan's progress toward achieving the level and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving specified levels. • Be adopted in a public process following environmental review. Rather than a state or regional agency determining whether a public agency's GHG reduction plan meets the requirements to be deemed qualified, to date, the responsibility has remained with each individual agency to demonstrate how its GHG reduction plan fulfills each component of the requirements. The City of Hermosa Beach anticipates that PLAN Hermosa, in conjunction with this Environmental Impact Report, is designed to meet the intent of a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy and will elaborate how these documents are consistent with each component of the CEQA Guidelines under the discussion related to Impact 4.6-2. LOCAL • South Coast Air Management District (SCAQMD). To provide guidance to local lead agencies on determining the significance of greenhouse gas emissions in CEQA documents, SCAQMD staff is in the process of developing significance thresholds for criteria air pollutants and GHGs relative to general plans. A SCAQMD Working Group has proposed several possible thresholds, including thresholds for analysis of general plan impacts. On September 28, 2010, SCAQMD Working Group Meeting #15 considered use of a metric ton per service population metric as a threshold for plan -level analysis, though it has not adopted any thresholds for the land use sector to date. The first threshold corresponds to a 2020 service population metric of 6.6 metric tons of CO2e per service population (residents plus employees) per year. The second proposed threshold is a 2035 service population metric of 4.1 metric tons of CO2e per service population per year. These efficiency thresholds were developed based on the statewide GHG inventory and statewide emission reduction goals of AB 32. • Hermosa Beach 2011 Sustainability Plan. The City is involved in a number of efforts to reduce GHG emissions. The City Council adopted the first Sustainability Plan for Hermosa Beach in 2011. The Sustainability Plan describes community and municipal GHG emissions, compares future emissions to the AB 32 emissions reduction target (15 percent below 2005 levels), and outlines a series of strategies and actions to reduce GHG emissions. The strategies address emissions from building energy (commercial, residential, and municipal), transportation, solid waste, and water consumption, determining that the suite of programs could reasonably reduce emissions 15 percent below 2005 levels. Although the Sustainability Plan qualitatively compared future emissions to the AB 32 emissions reduction target, it did not adopt targets for greenhouse gas emissions. • Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. In 2015, the City of Hermosa Beach codified a local goal to become a carbon neutral municipal organization no later than 2020 through adoption of the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. This plan sets the City up to demonstrate environmental leadership at the municipal level and identifies carbon reduction programs and initiatives to achieve the carbon neutral goal. By setting an aggressive municipal goal, the City hopes to set an example to the Hermosa Beach community and to other communities in the region to take bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit the degree of catastrophic impacts that climate change could have in the future. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-8 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 4.6.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. This analysis uses the information provided in the 2015 City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecasting, Target -Setting Report for an Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan (2015 GHG Inventory Report) and the local growth projections determined based on available land capacity (see Chapter 3.0, Project Description) as the basis for projecting future GHG emissions in the city, as well as the Carbon Planning Tool developed to evaluate the GHG reduction potential of various policies. As mentioned in the Environmental Setting subsection, the inventories were prepared consistent with industry protocols, including the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, the Local Government Operations Protocol, and the California Association of Environmental Professionals whitepapers on inventorying, forecasting, and setting targets for GHG emissions. The Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool is an Excel -based tool built to estimate the effectiveness of implementing various programs on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the associated costs and benefits from implementing measures. The tool includes data and information specific to Hermosa Beach regarding energy consumption, travel patterns, and building stock and relies on best practices such as the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures to outline the assumptions and methods for calculating the greenhouse gas reduction potential of various implementation measures. Appendix E-1 (PLAN Hermosa Greenhouse Gas Reduction Assumptions) details the sources and assumptions used in the Carbon Planning Tool to estimate the potential emissions reductions from each strategy. The analysis relies on assumptions based on current technology (e.g., the average electrical output of 1 kilowatt [kW] of solar in Hermosa Beach is currently 1,488 kilowatt hours [kWh] annually) unless regulation or peer-reviewed research can reasonably project the effect that future technology would have on reducing GHG emissions (e.g., state and federal fuel efficiency standards for light-duty passenger vehicles mandate that the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle fleet will increase from 34 miles per gallon in 2016 to 55 miles per gallon by 2025). PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS Understanding that over 50 percent of the community's GHG emissions come from transportation, the City proposes a land use plan that allows for more office space (more professional jobs in town) to reduce commute dependence, more community -serving retail dispersed more evenly throughout the community to reduce the length of trips or dependence on automobiles for local trips, a wide variety of transportation system improvements to provide safe walking, bicycling, and transit, and green infrastructure options. Additionally, the City proposes to reduce the carbon intensity from energy consumption by increasing the amount of renewable energy generated and by implementing efficiency and conservation programs to reduce the amount of energy consumed. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that reduce potential GHG-related impacts include the following: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-9 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Policies • Transportation Governance Element • 4.4 Regional transportation and infrastructure decisions. Actively support regional transportation and infrastructure projects and investment decisions that benefit the City and the region. Land Use + Design Element • Land Use Designations - The range and diversity of uses allowed within each land use designation plays a role in the number of trips a use generates and the mode of transportation chosen to make that trip. The more diversity in uses (between commercial, office/professional, residential, etc.) in a given area, combined with a safe transportation network, results in shorter trips that can be made by driving, walking, biking, or transit. • 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement and transformation of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. • 1.2 Focused infill potential. Proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. • 1.3 Access to daily activities. Strive to create sustainable development patterns such that the majority of residents are within walking distance to a variety of neighborhood goods and services, such as supermarkets, restaurants, churches, cafes, dry cleaners, laundry mats, farmers' markets, banks, personal services, pharmacies and similar uses. • 1.4 Diverse commercial areas. Promote the development of diversified and unique commercial districts with locally owned businesses and job- or revenue -generating uses. • 4.2 Employment centers. Encourage the development and co -location of additional office space and employment centers along corridors, preferably above ground -floor commercial uses on second or third floors. • 4.7 Access to transit. Support the location of transit stations and enhanced stops near the intersection of Aviation Blvd and Pacific Coast Highway, and adjacent to Gateway Commercial uses to facilitate and take advantage of transit service, reduce vehicle trips and allow residents without private vehicles to access services. • 4.10 Pedestrian access. For all new development, encourage pedestrian access, and create strong building entries that are primarily oriented to the street. • 6.2 Streetscaping. Proactively beautify existing streetscapes with street trees, landscaping and pedestrian -scaled lighting. • 6.3 Green infrastructure network. Establish an interconnected green infrastructure network throughout Hermosa Beach that serves as a network for active transportation, recreation and scenic beauty and connects all areas of the city. In particular, connections should be made between the beach, parks, the Downtown, neighborhoods, and other destinations within the city. Consider the following components when designing and implementing the green/open space network: - Preserved open space areas such as the beach and the Greenbelt; - Living streets with significant landscaping and pedestrian and bicycle amenities; and - Community and neighborhood parks, and schools. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-10 • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • 6.5 Provision of sidewalks. Encourage pedestrian -friendly sidewalks on both sides of streets in neighborhoods. • 6.7 Pedestrian -oriented design. Eliminate urban form conditions that reduce walkability by discouraging surface parking and parking structures along walkways, long blank walls along walkways, and garage -dominated building facades. • 6.8 Balance pedestrian/vehicular circulation. Require vehicle parking design to consider pedestrian circulation. Require the following of all new development along corridors: - Where parking lots front the street, the City will work with existing property owners to add landscaping between the parking lot and the street. - Parking lots should be landscaped to create an attractive pedestrian environment and reduce the impact of heat islands. - The number of curb cuts and other intrusions of vehicles across sidewalks should be minimized. - When shared parking supply options are not available, encourage connections between parking lots on adjacent sites. - Above -ground parking structures should be designed according to the same urban design principles as other buildings. - Encourage the use of systems to increase parking lot efficiency, such as mechanical lift systems or occupancy sensors. • 9.1 Ocean -based energy resources. Encourage and support research and responsible development of renewable ocean -based energy sources. Renewable energy sources appropriate to Hermosa Beach shall be limited to wave, tidal, solar, and wind sources that meet the region's and state's need for affordable sources of renewable energy. • 9.2 Renewable energy facilities. To reduce or avoid conflicts, communicate and collaborate with affected ocean users, coastal residents and businesses, and applicants seeking state or federal authorization for the siting, development, and operation of renewable energy facilities. • 9.3 Ecosystem preservation. Ensure that any future proposed offshore facilities do not have unacceptable adverse effects on the integrity, stability, and complexity of the marine ecosystem, important marine habitat, and areas important to fisheries, navigation, recreation, and aesthetic enjoyment. • 9.5 Reclamation. Require renewable energy facility operations to restore the natural characteristics of a site to the extent practicable when a project is decommissioned and removed. • 13.3 Fresh food offerings. Encourage the continuation and expansion of fresh food offerings including farmers' markets, community gardens, and edible landscapes in Hermosa Beach. Mobility Element • 1.1 Consider all modes. Require the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. • 2.5 Require sustainable practices. Incorporate environmental sustainability practices into designs and strategic management of road space and public right-of-ways, prioritizing practices that can serve dual infrastructure purposes. • 3.2 Complete pedestrian network. Prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities and connectivity to destinations. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-11 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • 3.3 Active transportation. Require commercial development or redevelopment projects and residential projects with four or more units to accommodate active transportation by providing on-site amenities, necessary connections to adjacent existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks, and incorporate people -oriented design practices. • 3.4 Access opportunities. Provide enhanced mobility and access opportunities for local transportation and transit services in areas of the city with sufficient density and intensity of uses, mix of appropriate uses, and supportive bicycle and pedestrian network connections that can reduce vehicle trips within the city's busiest corridors. • 3.5 Incentivize other modes. Incentivize local shuttle/trolley services, rideshare and car share programs, and developing infrastructure that support low speed, low carbon (e.g. electric) vehicles. • 3.6 Complete bicycle network. Provide a complete bicycle network along all designated roadways while creating connections to other modes of travel including walking and transit. • 4.1 Shared parking. Facilitate park -once and shared parking policies among private developments that contribute to a shared parking supply and interconnect with adjacent parking facilities. • 4.4 Preferential parking program. Periodically study and evaluate the current inventory of public parking supply and update the preferential parking program. • 4.5 Sufficient bicycle parking. Require a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. • 4.6 Priority parking. Provide priority parking and charging stations to accommodate the use of Electric Vehicles (EVs), including smaller short -distance neighborhood electric vehicles. • 4.9 Encourage TDM strategies. Encourage use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies and programs such as carpooling, ride hailing, and alternative transportation modes as a way to reduce demand for additional parking supply. • 5.1 Prioritize development of infrastructure. Prioritize the development of roadway and parking infrastructure that encourages private electric and other low carbon vehicle ownership and use throughout the city. • 5.2 Local transit system. Develop a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport of residents, hotel guests, and beachgoers between activity centers, and to Downtown businesses and the beach. • 5.3 Incentivize TDM strategies. Incentivize the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies as a cost effective method for maximizing existing transportation infrastructure to accommodate mobility demands without significant expansion to infrastructure. • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to ensure more compact, connected, and multimodal development that supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. • 6.1 Regional network. Work with government agencies and private sector companies to develop a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network that connects the community to surrounding cities. • 6.3 Support programs. Facilitate greater local and regional mobility through programs for shared equipment or transportation options such as car sharing and bike sharing. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-12 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • 6.6 Greater utilization of BCT. Consider exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Beach Cities Transit system for improved mobility along major corridors and as a potential means of improved regional transit connections. Sustainability + Conservation Element • 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. • 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. • 3.3 Fuel efficient fleets. Promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. Parks + Open Space Element • 4.2 Enhanced access points. Increase and enhance access to parks and open space, particularly across major thoroughfares, as well as access points that promote physical activity such as pedestrian- and bike -oriented access points. • 4.3 Safe and efficient trail network. Develop a network of safe and efficient trails, streets, and paths that connect residents, visitors, and neighboring communities to the beach, parks, and activity centers. • 6.4 Transit access. Coordinate with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to improve regional and local transit access to beach access points. • 6.5 Wayfinding and coastal access. Maximize bicycle and pedestrian access and safety getting to and around the Coastal Zone through infrastructure and wayfinding improvements. • 6.12 Complete bike and pedestrian network. Prioritize completion of proposed South Bay Bike Master Plan improvements in the Coastal Zone that connect to other bike routes and paths throughout the city and to the surrounding region. Infrastructure Element • 2.4 Sidewalk improvements. Consider innovative funding strategies, such as cost-sharing, ADA accessibility grants, or sidewalk dedications, to improve the overall condition, safety, and accessibility of sidewalks. • 2.5 Active transportation dedications. Require new development and redevelopment projects to provide land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as widened sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops, in compliance with ADA accessibility standards. • 2.6 Traffic signal coordination. Maintain and operate the traffic signal system with advanced technologies to manage traffic operations and maintain traffic signal infrastructure. Energy Consumption Sustainability + Conservation Element • 4.1 Renewable energy generation. Support and facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses. • 4.2 Retrofit program. Provide an energy retrofit program and incentives to assist home and building owners to make efficiency improvements. • 4.3 Rental efficiency. Adopt a financing program to incentivize rental efficiency retrofits, such as green leasing. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-13 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • 4.5 Sustainable building standards. Use sustainable building checklists to minimize or eliminate waste and maximize recycling in building design, demolition, and construction activities. Infrastructure Element • 6.4 Innovative and renewable technology. Encourage the exploration and establishment of innovative and renewable utility service technologies. Allow the testing of new alternative energy sources that are consistent with the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa and comply with all relevant regulations. • 6.5 Renewable energy facilities. Unless a renewable energy facility would cause an unmitigatable impact to health or safety, allow them by right. • 6.6 Community choice aggregation. Collaborate with nearby local and regional agencies to provide greater renewable energy choices to the community. Water Conservation Sustainability + Conservation Element • 5.1 Recycled water facilities. Increase the availability of recycled water supply (i.e. purple pipes) and facilitate the installation of distribution facilities throughout the city to conserve potable water use. • 5.3 Water conservation programs. Update and improve water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. • 5.5 Greywater. Encourage the installation of greywater irrigation or disposal systems. Infrastructure Element • 3.2 Alternative water supplies. Pursue expansion of recycled water infrastructure and other alternative water supplies to meet water demands of the community that cannot be offset through conservation measures. • 3.3 Recycled water infrastructure. Encourage the use and integration of dual plumbing system hookups to accommodate recycled water into new development. • 3.6 Water infrastructure. Support the development of water storage, recycling, greywater treatment, and necessary transmission facilities to meet necessary water demand. Waste + Recycling Sustainability + Conservation Element • 6.1 Franchise agreements. Ensure waste franchise agreements and program offerings provide progressively higher rates of waste diversion. • 6.2 Food waste collection. Ensure food waste collection is available and convenient for all residents, businesses, and organizations. • 6.3 Multi -family and commercial recycling. Require the provision of convenient recycling options in multi -family residential and commercial uses, until single -stream services make it unnecessary to separate recycling from other materials. • 6.6 Composting programs. Provide composting equipment at community facilities and events and encourage home and commercial composting. • 6.9 Building salvage. Maximize building salvage and deconstruction in remodeling or building demolition projects. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-14 • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Construction Equipment Sustainability + Conservation Element • 3.4 Landscape equipment. Discourage the use of equipment with two-stroke engines and publicize the benefits and importance of alternative technologies. • 3.5 Clean fuels. Support increased local access to cleaner fuels and cleaner energy by encouraging fueling stations that provide cleaner fuels and energy to the community. Other Sectors/Supportive Policies Sustainability + Conservation Element • 1.2 Highest return on investment. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously reduce ongoing operational costs to the City. • 1.6 Demonstration and pilot projects. Utilize demonstration and pilot projects as a means to evaluate the greenhouse gas reduction potential and cost effectiveness of projects. • 2.1 State targets and goals. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions at a rate that meets or exceeds long-term State targets and goals to reduce emissions by at least 66% below 2005 levels by 2040. • 2.2 Health and economic benefits. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously provide the greatest economic and health benefits to the community. • 2.4 Diversify GHG reduction strategies. Pursue a diverse mixture of greenhouse gas reduction strategies across the transportation, energy, waste sectors, commensurate with their share of the community's greenhouse gas emissions. • 2.7 Greenhouse gas thresholds. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds for use in evaluating non-exempt discretionary projects consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and require projects above that threshold to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, and locally offset the remainder of greenhouse gas emissions produced to meet thresholds. Parks + Open Space Element • 1.4 Low -maintenance design. Promote environmentally sustainable and low maintenance design principles in the renovation, addition, or maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. • 3.5 Health and physical activity. Increase the availability of space and variety of activities that promote community health and physical activity such as community gardens, fitness stations/equipment, and fields/courts. • 8.10 Sustainable events. Improve sustainability and environmental protection associated with special events. • 10.1 Urban forest. Expand the urban forest and green spaces citywide on public and private property. • 10.2 Non-invasive landscapes. Encourage the planting of native, non-invasive, and drought -tolerant landscaping and trees, and encourage the planting of edible landscapes and fruit trees. Infrastructure Element • 1.5 New technologies. When feasible, utilize emerging technologies and funding strategies that improve infrastructure efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-15 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Implementation Actions • SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to offset their greenhouse gas emissions generated above established thresholds, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. • SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. • SUSTAINABILITY -4. Identify, prioritize, and implement greenhouse gas reduction projects utilizing the City's carbon reduction planning tools for community and municipal operations. • SUSTAINABILITY -5. Regularly monitor and evaluate the City's greenhouse gas emissions inventory and report on progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals. Thresholds of Significance The impact analysis provided below is based on the application of the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G thresholds of significance. Greenhouse gas -related impacts are considered significant if implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment. 2) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases. Subsequent development allowed under PLAN Hermosa would result in the generation of GHG emissions associated with future construction activities, consisting primarily of emissions from equipment use and construction worker transportation, as well as long-term operations, consisting primarily of new stationary source emissions such as natural gas used for heating, transportation emissions, and indirect source emissions such as electricity usage for lighting. Addressing GHG generation impacts requires an agency to make a determination as to what constitutes a significant impact. The amendments to the CEQA Guidelines (Section 15064.4) specifically allow lead agencies to determine thresholds of significance that illustrate the extent of an impact and are a basis from which to apply mitigation measures. This means that each agency is left to determine whether a project's GHG emissions will have a "significant" impact on the environment. The guidelines direct that agencies are to use "careful judgment" and "make a good -faith effort, based to the extent possible on scientific and factual data, to describe, calculate or estimate" the project's GHG emissions (14 California Code of Regulations [CCR] Section 15064.4(a)). A number of regulatory agencies throughout the state have drafted or adopted varying threshold approaches and guidelines for analyzing greenhouse gas emissions in CEQA documents. The different thresholds include compliance with a qualified GHG reduction strategy, performance-based reductions, numeric "bright -line" thresholds, and efficiency -based thresholds. The California Supreme Court decision in the Centers for Biological Diversity et al. vs. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Newhall Land and Farming Company (November 30, 2015, Case No. S217763) confirmed that when an "agency chooses to rely completely on a single quantitative method to justify a no -significance finding, CEQA demands the agency research and document the quantitative parameters essential to that method." While the calculation of an efficiency metric is useful to evaluate new development within the context of a long-term goal, the proposed PLAN Hermosa buildout time frame of 2040 extends beyond the time horizon identified in the metrics proposed by the SCAQMD (2020, 2035). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-16 • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Additionally, because PLAN Hermosa includes policies to reduce GHG emissions comprehensively from both new and existing development, it is more appropriate to utilize the State's long-term GHG reduction goals and scientific consensus to determine whether PLAN Hermosa includes policies and programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to a level that is considered less than significant. In order to align with or be on a trajectory to meet the State's long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals and the scientific consensus of the emissions reductions needed to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius, the City of Hermosa Beach would need to reduce emissions equivalent to the following levels: • To 1990 levels by 2020 (equivalent to 15 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with AB 32 • To 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (equivalent to 49 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with SB 32 and EO B-30-15 • To 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 (equivalent to 83 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with EO S-3-05 Since PLAN Hermosa has a buildout time horizon of 2040, the minimum equivalent GHG reduction needed to be consistent with long-term state targets would be 60 percent below 1990 levels by 2040, which equates to 66 percent below 2005 levels. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.6-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Generate Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Either Directly or Indirectly, That May Have a Significant Impact on the Environment? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional greenhouse gas emissions generated. However, the plan also includes numerous policies and actions to reduce or eliminate GHG emissions from both new and existing development through incentives and voluntary actions that will meet or exceed the long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals to reduce emissions at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 (excluding offsets see discussion on page 4.6-22) through direct and local programs. However, since the City is relying on incentive -based or voluntary actions to achieve GHG reduction goals, there is a lower degree of certainty that the emissions reductions thresholds would be met compared to regulatory or mandatory actions. This impact would be potentially significant. GHG emissions contribute, on a cumulative basis, to the significant adverse environmental impacts of global climate change. No single land use project could generate enough GHG emissions to noticeably change the global average temperature. The combination of GHG emissions from past, present, and future projects contributes substantially to global climate change and its associated environmental impacts and as such is addressed only as a cumulative impact. Emissions Forecast and Local Target The City's GHG inventory report assessed baseline/current emissions levels in Hermosa Beach. The inventory relied on standardized protocols including the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Association of Environmental Professionals Supplement to the Protocol for California to calculate the estimated emissions generated by activities in Hermosa Beach. In 2005, Hermosa Beach generated approximately 137,160 MTCO2e annually from activities related to transportation, electricity use, natural gas use, waste disposal, and water/wastewater activities. Between 2005 and 2012, emissions in Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-17 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Beach decreased to 126,611 MTCO2e, which represents a 7.7 percent decrease in emissions or an average decrease in emissions of 1.1 percent per year (City of Hermosa Beach 2015a). Annual emissions generated vary from year to year based on a variety of factors, but often increase as the number of people living or working in a given area increases. The 2015 GHG inventory report forecast emissions levels for Hermosa Beach in 2035 if population, housing, and employment forecasts reached the levels projected by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) in the 2035 Regional Transportation Plan and no new programs to reduce emissions were implemented, referred to as a business -as -usual or BAU forecast. Since the 2015 report was prepared, the City of Hermosa Beach provided more locally relevant information to SCAG on population, housing, and employment forecasts that were incorporated into the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan. Subsequently, the City of Hermosa Beach developed an updated BAU forecast for the year 2040 using the local projections adopted by SCAG and the Carbon Planning Tool developed by the City. It should be noted that 2040 emissions are projected to be lower than 2005 emissions due to the decreases achieved between 2005 and 2012, and the limited increase in the number of additional residents, employees, and housing units expected between 2012 and 2040. Table 4.6-3 (Hermosa Beach Baseline (2005), Forecast (2040) Emissions, and Target Level (2040)) depicts the baseline emissions in 2005, the BAU forecast for 2040, and the emissions levels needed to be on a similar trajectory to long-term state targets by 2040. TABLE 4.6-3 HERMOSA BEACH BASELINE (2005), FORECAST (2040) EMISSIONS, AND TARGET LEVEL (2040) Time Frame/Target Emissions Levels (MTCO2e) Baseline Emissions (2005) 137,160 Business -as -Usual Forecast Emissions (2040) 133,430 Emissions Levels to Meet State Target (2040)/66% below 2005 levels 46,630 Reductions Needed to Achieve 2040 Target -86,800 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 State Programs to Reduce Emissions Locally Legislation, such as AB 1493 and the Advanced Clean Cars Program, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, the Renewables Portfolio Standard, and the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards and Green Building Standards, described in Table 4.6-4 (California Policies Reducing Emissions Locally), is geared toward reducing GHG emissions on a statewide level. However, these legislative actions will help to reduce GHG emissions locally, as residents and businesses purchase additional fuel-efficient and electric vehicles or consume electricity consume energy produced with greater amounts of renewable energy. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-18 • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS TABLE 4.6-4 CALIFORNIA POLICIES REDUCING EMISSIONS LOCALLY Legislation Description Assembly Bill 1493 and Advanced Clean Cars Program AB 1493 (the Pavley Standard) (Health and Safety Code Sections 42823 and 43018.5) aims to reduce GHG emissions from noncommercial passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks of model years 2009-2016. By 2025, when all rules will be fully implemented, new automobiles will emit up to 24 percent fewer CO2e emissions and 75 percent fewer smog -forming emissions. Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) EO S-01-07 (2007) requires a 10 percent or greater reduction in the average fuel carbon intensity for transportation fuels in California. The regulation took effect in 2010 and is codified at Title 17, California Code of Regulations Sections 95480-95490. The LCFS will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the carbon intensity of transportation fuels used in California by at least 10 percent by 2020. Renewables Portfolio Standard (Senate Bill X12 & Senate Bill 350) The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) requires retail sellers of electric services to increase procurement from eligible renewable energy resources to 33 percent of total retail sales by 2020. The 33 percent standard is consistent with the RPS goal established in the Scoping Plan. The passage of Senate Bill 350 in 2015 updates the RPS to require the amount of electricity generated and sold to retail customers per year from eligible renewable energy resources to be increased to 50 percent by December 31, 2030. The bill would make other revisions to the RPS program and to certain other requirements on public utilities and publicly owned electric utilities. California Building Energy Efficiency Standards In general, the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards require the design of building shells and building components to conserve energy. The California Energy Commission adopted changes to the 2013 Building Energy Efficiency Standards contained in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6 (also known as the California Energy Code) and associated administrative regulations in Part 1. The amended standards took effect in the summer of 2014. The 2013 Building Energy Efficiency Standards are 25 percent more efficient than previous standards for residential construction and 30 percent better for nonresidential construction. The standards offer builders better windows, insulation, lighting, ventilation systems, and other features that reduce energy consumption in homes and businesses. Energy-efficient buildings require less electricity, and increased energy efficiency reduces fossil fuel consumption and decreases GHG emissions. California Green Building Standards The California Green Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11), commonly referred to as the CALGreen Code, is a statewide mandatory construction code that was developed and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development. The CALGreen standards require new residential and commercial buildings to comply with mandatory measures under the topics of planning and design, energy efficiency, water efficiency/conservation, material conservation and resource efficiency, and environmental quality. CALGreen also provides voluntary tiers and measures that local governments may adopt that encourage or require additional measures in the five green building topics. The most recent update to the CALGreen Code went into effect July 1, 2014. * Senate Bill 375 is codified at Government Code Sections 65080, 65400, 65583, 65584.01, 65584.02, 6558404, 65587, 65588, 14522.1, 14522.2, and 65080.01, as well as at Public Resources Code Sections 21061.3 and 21159.28 and Chapter 4.2. These actions require limited local action and are accounted for in the City's emissions forecasts to provide a more accurate picture of future emissions and the remaining gap to be filled with local policies and programs to reduce emissions to levels consistent with state recommendations. This forecast is called the adjusted BAU forecast. Table 4.6-5 (Comparison of BAU and Adjusted BAU Emissions (2040)) summarizes the projected community GHG emissions City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.6-19 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS for the city through 2040. Through 2020, the implementation of state programs and regulations is expected to reduce local emissions approximately 23 percent below baseline emissions, exceeding the State -recommended goal of 15 percent below baseline emissions by approximately 8 percent (City of Hermosa Beach 2016). TABLE 4.6-5 COMPARISON OF BAU AND ADJUSTED BAU EMISSIONS (2040) Sector BAU ABAU Percentage Reduction On -Road Transportation 64,560 43,320 33% Off -Road Sources 1,090 730 33% Nonresidential Energy 24,120 16,460 32% Residential Energy 37,400 29,800 20% Solid Waste 3,480 3,480 0% Water & Wastewater 2,780 1,630 41% Total Emissions 133,430 95,420 28% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 As shown, the city's adjusted BAU emissions are estimated to be approximately 95,420 MTCO2e in 2040. This change represents a 28 percent reduction from BAU levels in 2040 or approximately 38,000 MTCO2e reduced annually from implementation of state legislation. As depicted in Figure 4.6-3 (Emissions Reductions Needed to Meet State and Local Targets), the impact of state legislation on local emissions in 2040 would leave a remaining gap of 48,800 MTCO2e to be reduced by local policy to achieve state goals and a remaining gap of 95,420 MTCO2e to achieve a carbon neutral goal by 2040 as proposed in the draft of PLAN Hermosa. 140,000 - 120,000 - 100,000 - 80,000 - 60,000 - 40,000 - 20,000 - 0 FIGURE 4.6-3 EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS NEEDED TO MEET STATE AND LOCAL TARGETS 2005 2012 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 ABAU Forecast m Reductions Needed to Meet State Goals Reductions Needed to Meet Local Goals —BAU Forecast PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-20 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS PLAN Hermosa Emissions Reductions As noted previously, numerous policies and implementation actions are included in PLAN Hermosa that are intended to facilitate the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from both existing and future activities. The applicable policies and implementation actions can be found in every element of PLAN Hermosa and are intended to reduce emissions associated with transportation and travel patterns, related to energy consumption from residential and commercial uses, from the disposal of solid waste in landfills, and from the energy needed to transport and treat the water consumed and the wastewater produced in Hermosa Beach. Building Efficiency PLAN Hermosa seeks to improve the efficiency of both existing and future buildings and associated activities by reducing the amount of energy needed to operate heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and household appliances, thereby reducing GHG emissions. Goals and policies contained in the Sustainability + Conservation Element are intended to reduce energy-related emissions from buildings that already exist today and by offering incentives, financing options, and retrofit programs (Sustainability + Conservation Element Policies 4.2 and 4.3), while Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 4.5 aims to minimize energy consumption from new buildings. Renewable Energy Generation While building efficiency policies and programs can help to reduce energy demand, energy consumption can almost never be completely eliminated. However, GHG emissions from energy used by residential, commercial, and other uses in Hermosa Beach can be further reduced by switching from traditional fossil fuel -based energy sources to cleaner and renewable sources of energy production. Policies in the Sustainability + Conservation Element aiming to increase renewable energy projects include Policy 4.1 to support and facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses. Additionally, policies in the Land Use + Design Element speak to identifying locations appropriate for additional renewable energy technologies (Policy 9.1), ensuring they are compatible with surrounding uses and protect ocean resources (Policies 9.2 and 9.3), and that sites with renewable energy systems are returned to the natural characteristics of a site at the end of their useful life (Policy 9.5). Finally, policies in the Infrastructure Element speak to encouraging the exploration and establishment of innovative and renewable utility service technologies (Policy 6.4), to allow renewable energy facilities by right when they would not cause an unmitigatable impact on health or safety (Policy 6.5), and to collaborate with nearby local and regional agencies to develop programs that provide greater renewable energy choices (Policy 6.6). Transportation and Land Use PLAN Hermosa seeks to reduce the environmental impact (including GHG emissions) of land development by increasing the viability of walking, biking, and transit and by reducing reliance on the automobile through cohesive land use patterns, thus reducing GHG emissions. This reduction is due to the sustainability -related aspects of the proposed policy provisions of the Land Use + Design Element, Mobility Element, and Sustainability + Conservation Element. Mobility Element Policy 5.5 seeks to encourage land use features in development projects to ensure that more compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, reduced trip lengths, and a greater ability to utilize alternative modes. In addition, Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.2 states that proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. Land Use + Design Element Policy 4.10 requires all new development to consider pedestrian access. Mobility Element Policy 3.2 would prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-21 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities, and connectivity to destinations. Mobility Element Policy 4.5 requires a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. Section 4.14, Transportation, identifies the effects of PLAN Hermosa's policy provisions on traffic generation, vehicle miles traveled, and thus mobile source GHG emissions, which are the predominant source of GHG emissions in the city. As described in Section 4.14, daily traffic trips and the daily rate of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) are projected to decrease under PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions by approximately 12.9 percent. This reduction in VMT would roughly equate to 2,600 fewer daily vehicle trips and 30,000 less vehicle miles traveled per day, due to the mobility -related policy provisions described above. An expanded discussion of the PLAN Hermosa policies reducing VMT is provided in Section 4.14 and Appendix G-2. Other Sectors and Offsets There are also policies within PLAN Hermosa for reducing GHG emissions from waste disposal and the transport/treatment of water and wastewater. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policies 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.6, and 6.9 identify methods to reduce waste, which include food waste collection, multi -family and commercial recycling, composting programs, and greater use of recycled or salvaged materials. Policies under Sustainability + Conservation Element Goal 5 identify policies to facilitate greater use of greywater, recycled water, and rainwater. Finally, PLAN Hermosa also includes several policies to support the reduction of GHG emissions that are not specific to a certain activity or sector. For instance, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 2.1 states that Hermosa Beach will reduce its GHG emissions in alignment with state targets and goals. Implementation action SUSTAINABILITY -1 will establish a GHG impact fee for all future discretionary development projects to offset their GHG contribution, and SUSTAINABILITY -5 requires the City to regularly monitor and evaluate Hermosa Beach's progress toward community -wide greenhouse gas reductions. Summary of Greenhouse Gas Reductions As noted in the Thresholds of Significance discussion above, PLAN Hermosa needs to demonstrate an ability to achieve long-term statewide goals by reducing community GHG emissions by approximately 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 to be considered a less than significant impact. Full implementation of the policies and actions in PLAN Hermosa has the potential to reduce emissions through local projects by at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040. Table 4.6-6 (Summary of Annual Emissions Reductions by Sector in 2040) illustrates the range of activities and the estimated level of emissions reductions to be achieved by 2040. The assumptions and data used to calculate the estimated reductions in GHG emissions are documented in Appendix E of this EIR. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-22 • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS TABLE 4.6-6 SUMMARY OF ANNUAL EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS BY SECTOR IN 20401 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 As shown in Table 4.6-6, full implementation of the policies and actions in PLAN Hermosa has the potential to achieve emissions reduction targets consistent with the State's long-term emissions reduction goals. However, the degree of certainty at which the city can meet GHG targets beyond 2020 is limited since attainment would at least be partially reliant on implementation of This table has been revised from the Draft EIR based on City Council direction to remove offsets. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.6-23 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report Share of Carbon Reductions (%) Annual Carbon Reduction (MTCO2e) Baseline 2005 Emissions 137,160 2012 Emissions -7.7% 126,610 BAU Emissions (2040) +5.0% 133,430 State Programs (2040) -27.7% 38,010 Local Remaining Emissions to Be Reduced 95,420 Building Efficiency New Construction Residential Efficiency -1.3% 1,810 Existing Buildings Residential Efficiency -4.4% 6,100 New Construction Nonresidential Efficiency -2.0% 2,810 Existing Buildings Nonresidential Efficiency -2.0% 2,770 Subtotal -9.8% 13,490 Renewable Energy Generation Rooftop Solar -5.9% 8,100 Community Solar -0.4% 550 Renewable Energy Procurement -7.3% 10,010 Purchased Renewables (Green Rate) -0.0% 0 Subtotal -13.6% 18,660 Transportation + Land Use Land Use & Transportation Alternatives -4.0% 5,500 Additional Transportation Strategies -1.9% 2,560 Electric Vehicles -7.4% 10,100 Subtotal -13.0% 18,160 Other Sectors + Offsets Waste + Recycling -2.5% 3,480 Water + Wastewater -0.2% 330 Subtotal -2.7% 3,810 TOTAL -69.9% 54,110 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 As shown in Table 4.6-6, full implementation of the policies and actions in PLAN Hermosa has the potential to achieve emissions reduction targets consistent with the State's long-term emissions reduction goals. However, the degree of certainty at which the city can meet GHG targets beyond 2020 is limited since attainment would at least be partially reliant on implementation of This table has been revised from the Draft EIR based on City Council direction to remove offsets. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.6-23 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS statewide programs and because some of the policies included in PLAN Hermosa are reliant on voluntary or incentive -based actions. Because the implementation of PLAN Hermosa is partially reliant on voluntary or incentive -based policies and actions, as well as state regulations to be implemented in the future, the impact would be considered potentially significant and cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures MM 4.6 -la MM 4.6-1 b MM 4.6-1c The City of Hermosa Beach will utilize the climate action plan, under development by the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and other appropriate tools to research current data gaps, identify and take specific actions, and define the responsible parties and time frames needed to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction goals (monitoring milestones) identified in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b. The City of Hermosa Beach will re -inventory community GHG emissions and evaluate implementation progress of policies to reduce GHG emissions for the calendar year of 2020 and a minimum of every five years thereafter. The interim reduction goals to be achieved for consistency with long-term state goals include: • 2020:15 percent below 2005 levels • 2025: 31 percent below 2005 levels • 2030: 49 percent below 2005 levels • 2035: 57 percent below 2005 levels • 2040: 66 percent below 2005 levels The City will revise PLAN Hermosa and/or the City's Climate Action Plan, and other appropriate tools when, upon evaluation required in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1 b, the City determines that Hermosa Beach is not on track to meet the applicable GHG reduction goals. Revisions to PLAN Hermosa, the Climate Action Plan, or other City policies and programs will include additional regulatory measures or incentives that provide a higher degree of certainty that emissions reduction targets will be met. Use of an adaptive management approach would allow the City to evaluate progress by activity sector (e.g., transportation, energy, water, waste) and prescribe additional policies or programs to be implemented in the intervening five years for activity sectors that are not on track to achieve the GHG reduction goals. Level of Significance After Mitigation With the addition of mitigation measures MM 4.6-1 a through MM 4.6-1c, the City of Hermosa Beach is committing to achieving specific emissions reduction targets within every five-year time period and modifying policies and programs, including the addition of new policies or modification of existing policies to become mandatory, to achieve greater levels of emissions reductions if the City falls short of meeting the established targets in mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b. While City Council recommended changes to the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa, the changes are still anticipated to reach emissions reduction levels consistent with the established thresholds. The implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in conjunction with mitigation measures MM 4.6 -la through MM 4.6-1c, will add the degree of certainty needed to determine that PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions and would not be cumulatively considerable. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-24 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS CEQA GUIDELINES FOR A QUALIFIED GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION STRATEGY This section is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to serve as an analysis in determining levels of significance for PLAN Hermosa. Instead, the following description is meant to demonstrate how PLAN Hermosa meets the criteria for a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy and that future projects may streamline environmental analysis, and determine the project has a less than significant impact for greenhouse gas emissions, by demonstrating their consistency with PLAN Hermosa as a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy. As previously stated, the California Natural Resources Agency and the Governor's Office of Planning and Research have identified the necessary components of a greenhouse gas reduction strategy that should be incorporated to be deemed a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy. PLAN Hermosa is designed to serve as the City of Hermosa Beach's Qualified Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategy, and this EIR elaborates how each of the required components for such a strategy are met. The discussion below is a summary of how PLAN Hermosa meets the intent of each component, with more details and explanation included earlier in this section. • Quantify greenhouse gas emissions, both existing and projected over a specified time period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area. The City of Hermosa Beach, in collaboration with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, used actual activity data and emissions factors to estimate the contribution of greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), from existing activities within the geographic boundaries of Hermosa Beach for the calendar years 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012. These emissions inventories relied upon standardized protocols including the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Association of Environmental Professionals Supplement to the Protocol for California to calculate the estimated emissions generated by activities in Hermosa Beach. In 2005, Hermosa Beach generated approximately 137,160 MTCO2e annually from activities related to transportation, electricity use, natural gas use, waste disposal, and water/wastewater activities. To project emissions over the time horizon of PLAN Hermosa (2040), the City of Hermosa Beach used the population, housing, and employment forecasts that were incorporated into the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan to develop a business -as -usual forecast for the year 2040 using the Carbon Planning Tool developed by the City. BAU emissions in 2040 are projected to be lower than 2005 emissions due to the decreases achieved between 2005 and 2012, and the limited increase in the number of additional residents, employees, and housing units expected between 2012 and 2040. Additionally, the projections considered the effect that legislation and regulation at the state level would have on reducing emissions locally by developing an adjusted BAU forecast for 2040. • Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable. In order to limit global temperature increases to two degrees Celsius and prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change, the IPCC and organizations like the Union of Concerned Scientists have indicated that the United States and other developed countries would need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions anywhere from 78 to 95 percent below 1990 levels, with most organizations identifying an approximately 80 percent reduction below 1990 levels by 2050 to provide stabilization at the two degree City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-25 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Celsius threshold (IPCC 2014). California has taken early action and efforts to avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change by establishing aggressive statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals through legislation and executive orders (AB 32, SB 32, EO B-30-15, EO S-3-05). In order to align with or be on a trajectory to meet the State's long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals and the scientific consensus of the emissions reductions needed to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, the City of Hermosa Beach would need to reduce emissions equivalent to the following levels: • To 1990 levels by 2020 (equivalent to 15 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with AB 32 • To 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (equivalent to 49 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with SB 32 and EO B-30-15 • To 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 (equivalent to 83 percent below 2005 levels) - consistent with EO S-3-05 Since PLAN Hermosa has a buildout time horizon of 2040, the minimum equivalent GHG reduction needed to be consistent with long-term state targets and determine that the cumulative activities in Hermosa Beach as less than cumulatively considerable would be a target to reduce emissions 60 percent below 1990 levels by 2040, which equates to 66 percent below 2005 levels. • Identify and analyze the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area. The goals, policies, and actions to reduce GHG emissions in Hermosa Beach included in PLAN Hermosa, and detailed earlier in this section, are designed to meet or exceed the GHG reduction target of 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040 when fully implemented. The potential emissions reductions were quantified for the year 2040 using the Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool. The Carbon Planning Tool is an Excel -based tool built to estimate the effectiveness of implementing various programs on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the associated costs and benefits from implementing measures. The tool includes data and information specific to Hermosa Beach regarding energy consumption, travel patterns, and building stock and relies on best practices such as the CAPCOA Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures to outline the assumptions and methods for calculating the greenhouse gas reduction potential of various implementation measures. The Carbon Planning Tool includes the links and sources used for each data point and assumptions used to calculate emissions reductions and is provided in Appendix E. The GHG reduction strategies included in PLAN Hermosa are organized by goal or topic area to correspond with the sectors and sources of GHG emissions as follows: • Building Efficiency • Renewable Energy Generation • Transportation and Land Use • Other Sectors and Offsets The measures included in PLAN Hermosa are a diverse mix of regulatory, educational, and incentive -based programs. The reduction measures are intended to reduce GHG emissions from each source to avoid reliance on any one strategy or sector to achieve the target. In total, existing actions, state programs, and the goals, policies, and actions of PLAN Hermosa, along with mitigation measures MM 4.6-1a, MM 4.6-1b, and MM 4.6- 1c, will reduce GHG emissions in Hermosa Beach at least 66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-26 • • • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence demonstrates, if implemented on a project -by -project basis, would collectively achieve the specified emissions level. To facilitate individual project consistency and keep Hermosa Beach on track to collectively achieve the specified emissions level, implementation actions in PLAN Hermosa direct the City to: • SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated above established thresholds, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. • SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. By establishing a greenhouse gas impact fee and standardizing potential measures for individual projects to implement, the City will have the tools necessary to ensure individual projects are minimizing the levels of greenhouse gas emissions generated, while offering projects multiple pathways to compliance. • Establish a mechanism to monitor the plan's progress toward achieving the level and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving specified levels. The estimated emissions reduction potential from implementation of PLAN Hermosa exceeds the trajectory of the State's long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals (66 percent below 2005 levels by 2040). However, the degree of certainty at which the city can meet GHG targets beyond 2020 is limited since attainment would at least be partially reliant on implementation of statewide programs and because some of the policies included in PLAN Hermosa are reliant on voluntary or incentive -based actions taken by the community. To address this uncertainty, PLAN Hermosa includes implementation action SUSTAINABILITY -5 to "Regularly monitor and evaluate the City's greenhouse gas emissions inventory and progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals." This EIR further strengthens that implementation action by incorporating specific metrics to be achieved for each five-year time increment through mitigation measure MM 4.6-1b. The combination of implementation actions and mitigation measures intended to regularly evaluate progress and institute a mechanism to amend PLAN Hermosa when emissions reduction goals are not met will ensure the City is consistently making progress toward the long-term state goals and local targets. • Be adopted in a public process following environmental review. As the City's integrated General Plan and Local Coastal Program, PLAN Hermosa is legally required to be reviewed by the Planning Commission, and the Planning Commission must hold at least one public hearing before providing a recommendation to the City Council pursuant to California Government Code Section 65353(a). Any amendment to a general plan is also further obligated to undergo environmental review prior to approval or adoption. Prior to holding public hearings at which the City Council will consider adoption, the City of Hermosa Beach will complete the environmental review process for PLAN Hermosa, which will include a 60 -day public review period on the Draft EIR, preparation of response to comments, and a Final EIR. Beyond the obligations of state law to adopt PLAN Hermosa through a public process following environmental review, the community engagement and opportunities for the community to provide feedback during this process to date have included: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-27 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • Five community workshops or walking tours • A three-part educational series • An online portal, in addition to email and in-person opportunities to submit comments, questions, and feedback • A 15 -member community working group (which met on more than a dozen occasions) • Twenty study sessions with the Planning Commission, City Council, Parks and Recreation Commission, Emergency Preparedness Commission, and Public Works Commission • Numerous informal opportunities to present PLAN Hermosa to community groups and local organizations at their standing meetings This extensive level of community engagement over a three-year period has helped to raise the community's awareness in the need to address greenhouse gas emissions and participate in the identification of potential opportunities to achieve the long-term goals. IMPACT 4.6-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation Adopted for the Purpose of Reducing the Emissions of Greenhouse Gases? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that is consistent with state and local plans, policies, or regulations adopted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The applicable plans, policies, and regulations include the AB 32 Scoping Plan, the City of Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan, and the City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. PLAN Hermosa includes goals, policies, and actions that would meet or exceed the goals established within each of these applicable plans; therefore, the impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa's consistency with the AB 32 Scoping Plan, Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan, and Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan is evaluated below. A numeric summary of the relevant GHG emissions reduction goals articulated through state legislation or executive orders and locally adopted planning documents, along with the level of GHG reductions that are anticipated to be achieved through the implementation of policies in PLAN Hermosa, is presented in Table 4.6-7. TABLE 4.6-7 GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION GOALS AND ACHIEVEMENTS Source: City of Hermosa Beach, 2016. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-28 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 Percent Emissions Reduction Below 2005 Levels GHG Emissions Reduction Goals Goal Origination 2020 2030 2040 2050 State Legislation (adopted) 15% (AB 32) 49% (SB 32) State Executive Order 83% (E.O. S-3-05) Local Plans (Adopted) 15% (Sustainability Plan) Trajectory Needed to Meet Goals 15% 49% 66% 83% PLAN Hermosa PLAN Hermosa 66% PLAN Hermosa EIR Alternative 2 100% Source: City of Hermosa Beach, 2016. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-28 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AB 32 and Climate Change Scoping Plan AB 32 is the primary legislation that has driven GHG regulation and analysis in California. Under AB 32, the legislature directed CARB to develop and periodically update the AB 32 Climate Change Scoping Plan document to detail the latest scientific understanding of climate change, describe California's motivations to address climate change and preserve the California lifestyle, evaluate accomplishments and next steps for reducing emissions, and describe the role of regional and local governments in achieving the State's emissions reduction goals. While AB 32 does not mandate or prescribe local governments to achieve certain emissions reduction targets, the AB 32 Scoping Plan recognizes that local governments are essential partners to achieving statewide goals given that local jurisdictions have a higher degree of influence and authority over significant sources of GHG emissions. The first AB 32 Scoping Plan, developed in 2007, suggested that local governments should aim to reduce emissions 15 percent below current levels (2005-2008) by 2020 and assist with meeting regional vehicle miles traveled (VMT) targets mandated by SB 375. PLAN Hermosa is consistent with the AB 32 Scoping Plan and fulfills the recommended role of local governments in achieving statewide goals by reducing emissions 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 and by meeting VMT targets established for the Southern California Association of Governments and detailed in the Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) (see Section 4.9, Land Use and Planning, for discussion of consistency with the RTP/SCS). Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan The Sustainability Plan adopted by the City of Hermosa Beach in 2011 describes community and municipal GHG emissions, compares future emissions to the AB 32 emissions reduction target (15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020), and outlines a series of strategies and actions to reduce GHG emissions. The strategies address emissions from building energy (commercial, residential, and municipal), transportation, solid waste, and water consumption, determining that the suite of programs could reasonably reduce emissions 15 percent below 2005 levels. As described previously, the City of Hermosa Beach is likely to reduce emissions 23 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 through implementation of state and local measures. PLAN Hermosa supports and is consistent with the Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan by incorporating and further developing policy to reduce emissions from building energy, transportation, solid waste, and water consumption sources. The specific policies included in PLAN Hermosa to reduce emissions from each sector are further described under the discussion of Impact 4.6-1. Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan In 2015, the City of Hermosa Beach adopted a local goal to become a carbon neutral municipal organization no later than 2020 through adoption of the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. The Hermosa Beach Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan was funded by a grant from the Southern California Association of Governments to identify and explore emissions reduction opportunities for municipal facilities and operations. The Municipal CN Plan also identifies the elements of setting a greenhouse gas reduction goal including the time frame, magnitude, and scope of emissions/activities included. The Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan explored a range of greenhouse gas reduction goals and ultimately adopted a goal to reach carbon neutrality for municipal facilities and operations by the end of 2020. Examples of implementation measures in the Municipal CN Plan included pursuing Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), accelerating implementation of the Clean Fleet Policy, upgrading street lighting to LED lighting, installing solar photovoltaic systems on municipal property, and dedicating staff to implement employee commute reduction programs. Implementation of these City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-29 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS measures was projected to reduce direct municipal emissions by at least 40% by 2020. To reach a goal of carbon neutrality, the Municipal CN Plan identified that the remaining emissions would need to be offset by either generating additional local renewable energy or purchasing offsets, though in 2016 Council provided direction to staff not to pursue the latter option to purchase offsets. Given the progress between 2005 and 2015, the projects recently completed or anticipated to be completed in the next few years, and the previous direction from City Council not to pursue the use of carbon credits or offsets, the City is on course to reduce municipal emissions by approximately 58% by 2020 from 2005 levels, which exceeds the direct emissions reductions identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, but does not reach the carbon neutral goal for municipal facilities by 2020. PLAN Hermosa includes Sustainability + Conservation Element Goal 1 to meet or exceed an 80% reduction in municipal greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels by 2030 through projects that will directly reduce emissions from municipal facilities and operations (rather than through offsets). While the goal does not commit to carbon neutrality for the municipality as previously indicated in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan, Goal 1 and the associated policies will lead to a greater level of direct, measureable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions than identified in the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan—Adopting Goal 1 to meet or exceed an 80% reduction in municipal emissions by 2030, while less aggressive than a municipal carbon neutral goal, still exceeds state goals. To further support the goal, Policies 1.1 through 1.10 speak to prioritizing projects that provide the highest return on investment, aligning projects to reduce emissions with the current sources of emissions, and using pilot or demonstration projects. The policies included in PLAN Hermosa mirror the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan recommendations to pursue a diverse mixture of emissions reduction projects, to utilize offsets, and to evaluate the costs and savings/benefits of various projects prior to implementing. Conclusion A core objective in the development of PLAN Hermosa has been to identify policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and set Hermosa Beach on a path to a low- carbon future. As described above, PLAN Hermosa is consistent with the goals of AB 32 and the Climate Change Scoping Plan, the Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan, and the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. PLAN Hermosa has further been developed to serve as the City of Hermosa Beach's Qualified Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategy, as defined by the CEQA Guidelines. Therefore, the impact of PLAN Hermosa would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-30 • 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 4.6.5 REFERENCES California Association of Environmental Professionals. 2015. Beyond 2020: The Challenge of Greenhouse Gas Reduction Planning by Local Governments in California. http://califaep.org/images/climate-change/AEP_White_Paper Beyond_2020.pdf. California State Legislature. 2016. Senate Bill 32: The California Global Warming Solutions Act: Emissions Limit (2016). https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160SB32. CAPCOA (California Air Pollution Control Officers). 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. http://www.capcoa.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11 /CAPCOA- Quantification-Report-9-14-Final.pdf. CARB (California Air Resources Board). 2014a. California Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/data/data.htm; and https://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/data/graph/bar/bar 2014_scopingplan.png. . 2014b. First Update to the AB 32 Climate Change Scoping Plan. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/document/updatedscopingplan2013.htm. 2015. Cap -and -Trade Offset Verification Program. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/capandtrade/offsets/verification/verification.htm. . 2016. California Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Trends 2000-2014. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/pubs/reports/2000_2014/ghg_inventory_trends_00- 14_20160617.pdf. City of Hermosa Beach. 2011. Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=334. . 2015a. City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecasting, Target -Setting Report for an Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5718. . 2015b. Hermosa Beach Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan. https://docs.google.com/gview?url=http%3A%2F%2Fhermosabeach.legistarl .com%2Fher mosabeach%2Fmeetings%2F2015%2F2%2F908_A_City_Council_15-02- 24_Meeting_Agenda.pdf&embedded=true. . 2016. City of Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool. https://hermosabeach.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=2281885&GUID=5192A329- FBB9-46E4-AF0E-4FBE5BC73A58. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. n.d. Hermosa Beach Carbon Neutral Scoping http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3379. Plan. CNRA (California Natural Resources Agency). 2009a. 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/Statewide_Adaptation_Strategy.pdf. 2009b. Notice of Public Hearings and Notice of Proposed Amendment of Regulations Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act. http://resources.ca.gov/ceqa/docs/Adopted_and_Transmitted_Text_of_SB97_CEQA_Gui delines_Amendments.pdf. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.6-31 4.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS DOF (California Department of Finance). 2015. Table E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, January 1, 2011-2015, with a 2010 Benchmark. EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency). 2016. US Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report 1990- 2014. https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/us-greenhouse-gas-inventory-report-1990-2014. IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). 2014. Fifth Assessment Report. http://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/http://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/http://www.ipcc.ch/repo rt/ar5/http://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). 2015. Greenhouse Gas Benchmark Reached. http://research.noaa.gov/News/NewsArchive/LatestNews/Tabld/684/ArtMID/1768/Articl eID/11153/Greenhouse-gas-benchmark-reached-.aspx. 2016. Trends in Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide. 2016. http://www.esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/ccgg/trends/. OPR (Governor's Office of Planning and Research). 2011. CEQA and Climate Change. https://www.opr.ca.gov/s_ceqaandclimatechange.php. PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency. 2013. Trends in Global CO2 Emissions, 2013 Annual Report. http://edgar.jrc.ec.europa.eu/news_docs/pb1-2013-trends-in-global-co2- emissions-2013-report-1148.pdf. SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2015. Profile of the City of Hermosa Beach. https://www.scag.ca.gov/Documents/HermosaBeach.pdf. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.6-32 • o 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS • • 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 4.7.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to hazards and hazardous materials from implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Natural hazards related to flooding, tsunamis, and sea level rise are addressed in Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, seismic and other geotechnical hazards are addressed in Section 4.5, Geology and Soils, and hazards related to climate change are addressed in Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The analysis includes a review of state hazardous materials databases, hazards related to schools, and emergency response procedures related to hazardous materials. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies and implementation actions ensure new development, businesses, and public safety are prepared for emergencies and the potential release of hazards or hazardous materials in the planning area. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing hazards or hazardous materials. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this chapter is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this EIR as Appendix C. 4.7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-10 describes the regional and local conditions related to hazards and hazardous materials. Key findings of the environmental setting are presented below. HAZARDOUS SITES 11110 A hazardous material is any material that, due to its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical characteristics, poses a significant present or potential hazard to human health and safety or to the environment if released. Hazardous materials include but are not limited to hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, and any material that a business or local implementing agency has a reasonable basis to believe would be injurious to the health and safety of persons or would be harmful to the environment if released. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) maintains the GeoTracker database, which provides information to easily identify the location of a hazardous waste site and details regarding the type of contamination and remediation action. In 2014, when the Technical Background Report included in Appendix C was compiled, GeoTracker reported one leaking underground storage tank (LUST) site in the planning area (SWRCB 2014). As of 2015, GeoTracker identified the site's status as "completed - case closed," meaning there are no active LUST sites in the planning area (SWRCB 2015). Including the site mentioned above, GeoTracker identifies 15 LUST sites that have completed cleanup and monitoring activities (SWRCB 2015). In addition to the information sources listed above, the E&B Oil Drilling and Production Project Final Environmental Impact Report certified in 2014 identifies the City Maintenance Yard at 555 6th Street as contaminated from historical uses, with existing lead and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) contamination in the northeast corner of the yard and extending onto the property to the immediate north. Ten of the 73 soil samples taken at the site exceeded Regional Water Quality Control Board guidelines for TPH. Six of the samples exceeded the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 Industrial Regional Screening Levels for lead. In addition, a series of groundwater borings conducted in 2013 found the presence of TPH, lead, barium, and arsenic in the groundwater below the yard that exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels established for drinking water by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (City of Hermosa Beach 2014). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 20I7 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-1 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SCHOOLS Please refer to Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Services, and Utilities, for additional information regarding schools in the planning area. AIRPORT HAZARDS No airports are located in the city. The nearest airports are Torrance Airport 5.4 miles to the southeast, Los Angeles International Airport 5.5 miles to the north, and Hawthorne Municipal Airport 5.9 miles to the northeast. TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) provides a summary of all registered routes for transportation of hazardous material in the state. As of February 2014, there were no registered routes in Hermosa Beach (DTSC 2015). However, the City has designated truck routes that can be used for transportation of hazardous materials. Such major transportation include Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) and portions of Pier Avenue, Valley Drive, Herondo Street, and Artesia Boulevard. When acutely toxic hazardous materials are transported, the California Highway Patrol must be notified; the Hermosa Beach Police Department and the Hermosa Beach Fire Department must also be notified if city streets are used. The City does not designate specific haul routes for hazardous materials. FIRE HAZARDS Public Resources Code Sections 4201-4204 and Government Code Sections 51175-51189 require identification of fire hazard severity zones in California. Fire hazard severity zones are modeled based on vegetation, topography, weather, fuel load type, and ember production and movement within the area in question. Fire hazard severity zones are defined as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). Fire prevention areas considered to be under state jurisdiction are referred to as state responsibility areas, while areas under local jurisdiction are called local responsibility areas." Cal Fire (2007) has not identified any fire hazard severity zones in the planning area. 4.7.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to hazards and hazardous materials in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of hazards and hazardous materials that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for hazards and hazardous materials is discussed in detail in Appendix C-10. Key regulations used to reduce potential impacts of the proposed project are summarized below. FEDERAL • Resource Conservation and Recovery Act: At the federal level, the principal agency regulating the generation, transport, and disposal of hazardous substances is the EPA, under the authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The RCRA established an all-encompassing federal regulatory program for hazardous substances that is administered by the EPA. Under the act, the EPA regulates the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances. • Hazardous Materials Transport Regulations: The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates transportation of hazardous materials between states. The USDOT Federal Railroad Administration enforces the Hazardous Materials Regulations, which are promulgated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration for rail transportation. These regulations include requirements that railroads and other transporters PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-2 • • • 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS of hazardous materials, as well as shippers, have and adhere to security plans and also train employees involved in offering, accepting, or transporting hazardous materials on both safety and security matters. • Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act: Congress enacted the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund, in 1980. The act established prohibitions and requirements concerning closed and abandoned hazardous waste sites; provided for liability of persons responsible for releases of hazardous waste at these sites; and established a trust fund to provide for cleanup when no responsible party could be identified • Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Lead -Based Paint: The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 (Title 15, United States Code, Section 2605) banned the manufacture, processing, distribution, and use of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in enclosed systems. The EPA Region 9 PCB Program regulates remediation of polychlorinated biphenyls in several states, including California. The Residential Lead -Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 amended the Toxic Substances Control Act to include Title IV, Lead Exposure Reduction. The EPA regulates renovation activities that could create lead-based paint hazards in target housing and child -occupied facilities and has established standards for lead-based paint hazards and lead dust cleanup levels in most pre -1978 housing and child -occupied facilities. STATE • California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law: The California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law of 1985 (Business Plan Act) requires hazardous materials business plans to be prepared and inventories of hazardous materials to be disclosed, including an inventory of the hazardous materials handled, facility floor plans showing where hazardous materials are stored, an emergency response plan, and provisions for employee safety and emergency response training (California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.95, Article 1). • Hazardous Waste Control Act: The Hazardous Waste Control Act is codified in California Code of Regulations Title 26, which describes requirements for the proper management of hazardous wastes. The act created the state's hazardous waste management program, which is similar to but more stringent than the federal RCRA program. • Government Code Section 65962.5 (Cortese List): The provisions of Government Code Section 65962.5 are commonly referred to as the Cortese List. The Cortese List is a planning document used by the state and local agencies to provide information about hazardous materials release sites. Government Code Section 65962.5 requires the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) to develop an updated Cortese List annually, at minimum. The DTSC is responsible for a portion of the information contained in the Cortese List. Other state and local government agencies are required to provide additional hazardous material release information for the list. • California Emergency Response Plan: California has developed an emergency response plan to coordinate emergency services provided by federal, state, and local governments and private agencies. Response to hazardous material incidents is one part of this plan. The plan is managed by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, which coordinates the responses of other agencies, including Cal/EPA, the California Highway Patrol, the Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the Los Angeles County Emergency Services Program. • California Coastal Act: The California Coastal Act of 1972 created the California Coastal Commission to enact policies and standards in its coastal development permit decisions. Among many issues, the California Coastal Commission and the coastal development City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-3 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS permit program protect against oil and hazardous substance spills and regulate the disposal of hazardous substances at sea. LOCAL • Certified Uniform Program Agency: The Los Angeles County Fire Department Health Hazardous Materials Division is the designated Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for Hermosa Beach. The CUPA was created by the California legislature to minimize the number of business inspections and fees imposed on businesses. • City of Hermosa Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan: The City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan has been updated in 2017 to meet the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The act requires local governments to prepare plans that identify hazards and risks within a community, and create appropriate mitigation. The purpose of the plan is to integrate hazard mitigation strategies into the City's daily activities and programs. • City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan: The City's Emergency Operations Plan addresses Hermosa Beach's planned response to emergencies associated with natural disasters, technological incidents, and national security emergencies (City of Hermosa Beach 2016). It provides an overview of operational concepts, identifies components of the City's emergency management organization in the Standardized Emergency Management System and National Incident Management System, and describes the overall responsibilities of the federal, state, and county entities and the City for protecting life and property and ensuring the overall well-being of the population. 4.7.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of the EIR, impacts on hazards and hazardous materials would be considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. 2) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and/or accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. 3) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school. 4) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, create a significant hazard to the public or the environment 5) For a project located within an airport land use plan, result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area. 6) For a project locate within 2 miles of a private airstrip, result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area. 7) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. 8) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires. No sites in Hermosa Beach are included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. There is no airport located in the planning area, and the PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-4 • • 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS city is not in a fire hazard severity zone as identified by Cal Fire; therefore, the EIR does not evaluate impacts 4, 5, and 6. ANALYSIS APPROACH The impact analysis is based on the likely consequences of PLAN Hermosa implementation compared to existing conditions. The following analysis of impacts on hazards and hazardous materials is qualitative and based on available hazards and hazardous materials information for the planning area. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area would comply with applicable laws, regulations, design standards, and plans. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address potential hazards and hazardous materials include the following: Policies Governance Element • 7.4 Evaluation and disclosure. Require an evaluation and disclosure (e.g. Health checklists, Health Impact Assessments) of environmental and health impacts or benefits for major discretionary projects. Public Safety Element • 3.1 Hazardous material setbacks. Restrict the storage and transport of hazardous materials only to areas where risks to residents are adequately minimized through setbacks or other measures. • 3.2 Hazardous material incident response. Coordinate with allied agencies to prepare for and respond to hazardous materials incidents. • 3.3 Use, storage, and transport. Require businesses that use, store, or transport hazardous materials to ensure that adequate measures are taken to protect public health and safety. • 3.4 Hazardous materials in coastal zone. Restrict the siting of new uses involving hazardous materials in the Coastal Zone to coastal -related industrial uses in the Cypress District. • 3.5 Safe disposal practices. Maintain City's website and other outlets with information regarding the safe handling and disposal of household chemicals. • 4.1 Public awareness. Increase public awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery through updated evacuation routes and informational signage. • 4.2 Promote community-based programs. Promote community-based programs in fire safety and emergency preparedness, including neighborhood -level programs and business programs and community volunteer groups such as CERT, Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Policing and the Amateur Radio Association. • 4.3 SEMS and NIMS training. Increase City employee capacity through the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant training and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) drills to identify hazards, and assist in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. • 4.4 Utilize City media resources. Maintain the City's emergency communication policy and protocols and utilize City media resources, emergency alert notification systems, and program advertising to provide information and communicate with the community prior to, during, or after events posing risk to community health safety, and welfare. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-5 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS • 4.5 Responsive neighborhood groups. Encourage neighborhood groups, including Neighborhood Watch, to identify, consider, and prepare for the needs of neighbors with access and functional needs to adequately respond to disasters. • 4.6 Vulnerable populations. Incorporate procedures into emergency and hazard mitigation plans to take care of vulnerable populations during hazardous events. Implementation Actions • SAFETY -16. Include updated hazardous materials considerations in regular Emergency Operation Plan updates and work with the County of Los Angeles to update local Hazardous Materials Area Plans on a regular basis. • SAFETY -17. Provide information, opportunities, and incentives to the community for the proper disposal of toxic materials to avoid environmental degradation to the air, soil, and water resources from toxic materials contamination. • SAFETY -18. Designate an emergency response team to monitor and respond to regional disasters such as oil spills and other shoreline disasters. Such a team must maintain an emergency response plan that includes coordination with other agencies and jurisdictions in the region on initial response, aid, and recovery. • SAFETY -24. Periodically update the emergency operations plan. • SAFETY -25. Periodically update the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and concurrently amend the Public Safety Element to maintain eligibility for maximum grant funding. • SAFETY -28. Identify hazard -specific evacuation routes and share with the public, businesses, and other government agencies. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.7-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Create a Significant Hazard to the Public and Environment Through the Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could result in the public's exposure to hazardous materials from increased transport, use, or accidental release of hazardous materials. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce risks of accidents associated with the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials to a less than significant level. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city. New development could result in increased transport, use, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in the planning area. Of particular concern are facilities that would handle hazardous materials such as light industrial uses, gas stations, automotive repair shops,, and dry cleaners. Facilities developed consistent with PLAN Hermosa that would use hazardous materials on-site would be required to obtain permits and comply with appropriate regulatory agency standards designed to avoid hazardous waste releases and protect public health. The transport, use, and storage of hazardous materials would be required to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations as noted above. Facilities that use hazardous materials are required to obtain permits and comply with appropriate regulatory agency standards designed to avoid hazardous waste releases. Federally, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act gives the EPA the authority to control the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Additionally, the City will continue to enforce disclosure laws that require users, producers, and transporters of hazardous materials and wastes to clearly identify the materials that they store, use, or transport, and to notify the appropriate agencies in the event of a violation. By recognizing PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-6 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS these hazards and ensuring that an educated public is able to work with City officials to minimize risks associated with hazardous materials in the urban environment, safe conditions would be maintained throughout the planning area. The amount of hazardous materials transported through the planning area on roadways, local routes, and Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) may increase as a result of PLAN Hermosa implementation. The US Department of Transportation governs the transportation of hazardous materials. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issues regulations concerning highway routing of hazardous materials, including hazardous materials endorsements for a commercial driver's license, highway hazardous material safety permits, and financial responsibility requirements for motor carriers of hazardous materials. The following PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies recognize and account for potential risks associated with hazardous materials and support compliance with and enforcement of state and federal hazardous materials regulations. Policy 3.1 ensures that the storage and transport of hazardous materials is restricted only to areas where risks to residents are adequately minimized. Policy 3.2 directs the City to coordinate with allied agencies to prepare for and respond to hazardous materials incidents. Policy 3.3 requires businesses that use, store, or transport hazardous materials to ensure that adequate measures are taken to protect public health and safety. Policy 3.4 directs the City to restrict the siting of new uses involving hazardous materials in the Coastal Zone to coastal -related industrial uses in the Cypress District. Policy 3.5 directs the City to maintain its website and other outlets with information regarding the safe handling and disposal of household chemicals. Policy 4.1 directs the City to increase awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery. Finally, implementation action SAFETY -16 directs the City to work with the County of Los Angeles to update local Hazardous Materials Area Plans on a regular basis. Continued compliance with and enforcement of existing federal, state, and local regulations concerning the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials, supported by implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would reduce potential impacts to a Tess than significant level. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.7-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Create a Significant Hazard to the Public or Environment Through Accidental Release of Hazardous Materials into the Environment? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development in the city in a manner that could lead to accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Compliance with existing federal and state regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce risks associated with the accidental release of hazardous materials. However, development of the City's Maintenance Yard or other sites in the city could release known or unknown hazardous materials, which would be potentially significant. Known Contamination As described above there is only one location of known contamination in Hermosa Beach, the City's Maintenance Yard. The contaminated site is currently operational and is not included in the GeoTracker database. Given the history of the site, which has been used in a similar capacity since the late nineteenth century, potential contamination could come from a number of activities related to the function of the site, including oil changes and fleet maintenance, storage of materials such as paint or cleaning materials, and collection of waste or debris from sites throughout the city. These are common activities at maintenance yards, and it is not uncommon City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-7 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS for these sites to be further evaluated for potential contamination. According to PLAN Hermosa, land uses allowed on and around the City Maintenance Yard would be light industrial. Nonetheless, any construction on the site that would entail uses for commercial or residential purposes would require remediation and cleanup activities be implemented as outlined in 40 CFR Part 260, Hazardous Remediation Waste Management Requirements. Because development could potentially take place on the existing City Maintenance Yard site, impacts would be potentially significant. Unknown Contamination Future development that would take place in the city under PLAN Hermosa could encounter unknown hazardous materials contamination. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies recognize and account for potential risks associated with accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Policy 3.5 directs the City to maintain its website and other outlets with information regarding the safe handling and disposal of household chemicals, while Policy 4.1 directs the City to increase awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery. Policy 4.4 would establish communication protocols and utilize City media resources to provide information prior to, during, or after events posing risk to community health safety, and welfare, such as exposure to unknown contaminants. Implementation action SAFETY -16 directs the City to work with the County of Los Angeles to update local Hazardous Materials Area Plans on a regular basis. Implementation action SAFETY -18 designates an emergency response team to monitor and respond to regional disasters such as oil spills and other shoreline disasters. Compliance with existing regulations concerning the upset and/or accidental release of hazardous materials, supported by implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies, would ensure that the general public would not be exposed to any unusual or excessive risks related to accidental upset and/or release of hazardous materials into the environment. Nonetheless, unknown contamination during construction activities could be discovered and this impact is potentially significant. Mitigation Measures MM 4.7-2a For any development activities that would encroach upon or take place at the City's Maintenance Yard, the City shall require the preparation and implementation of a Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) and a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to be approved by the appropriate agencies. MM 4.7-2b Future discretionary projects involving the use of hazardous materials that may be accidentally released or encountered during construction shall be required to implement the following procedures: • Stop all work in the vicinity of any discovered contamination or release. • Identify the scope and immediacy of the problem. • Coordinate with responsible agencies (Department of Toxic Substances Control, Regional Water Quality Control Board, or US Environmental Protection Agency). • Conduct the necessary investigation and remediation activities to resolve the situation before continuing construction work as required by state and local regulations. Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.7-2a and MM 4.7-2b would ensure that accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment, either from redevelopment at the City Maintenance Yard or from unknown contamination, would be remediated in accordance with state and local regulations in a manner that would protect public health during construction PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-8 • • 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS activities and later use of the site. Project impacts would be reduced to a less than significant level. IMPACT 4.7-3 Emission or Handling of Hazardous or Acutely Hazardous Materials, Substances, or Waste within One -Quarter Mlle of an Existing or Proposed School. PLAN Hermosa implementation would guide future development in the city. Such development, which could emit or handle hazardous waste, could occur in the proximity of new or existing schools. Compliance with existing regulations would reduce the risk of emissions or the handling of hazardous materials near schools to a less than significant level. PLAN Hermosa implementation could lead to development that would emit or handle hazardous materials within a quarter mile of a school. Schools located in the city are mostly surrounded by residential development, and future development under PLAN Hermosa concentrates on both residential and nonresidential development. Hazardous materials handled in residential neighborhoods are typical of household hazardous materials like cleaners and yard maintenance materials, and are usually in small quantities that do not pose threats to school uses. The California Department of Education enforces school siting requirements through its School Site Selection and Approval Guide, and based on these requirements, new school facilities would not be constructed within one-quarter mile of facilities emitting or handling materials. CEQA Guidelines Section 15186, School Facilities, requires that school projects, as well as projects proposed to be located near schools, examine potential health impacts resulting from exposure to hazardous materials, wastes, and substances. Furthermore, permitting requirements for individual hazardous material handlers or emitters, including enforcement of Public Resources Code Section 21151.4, would require evaluation and notification where potential hazardous materials handling and emissions could occur in proximity to existing schools. Compliance with existing regulations for both known and unknown contamination as well as handling of hazardous materials, as outlined above in the Regulatory Setting subsection, would minimize impacts from implementation of PLAN Hermosa to a less than significant level. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.7-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Interference with an Adopted Emergency Response Plan? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would ensure conformance with countywide emergency response programs and continued cooperation with emergency response service providers. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa implementation could generate additional peak traffic conditions that could interfere with emergency response and evacuation plans, while new development could create new hazards in the city that would require emergency response personnel in case of a man-made or natural disaster. The Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) Health Hazardous Materials Division is the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for the City of Hermosa Beach, with the Hermosa Beach Fire Department (HBFD) authorized as a participating agency. The LACFD and the HBFD work together to implement the City's Emergency Operations Plan that addresses Hermosa Beach's planned response to emergencies. The City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan includes mitigation measures to ensure emergency response in the city is done in a coordinated manner. For example, the plan includes measures to City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-9 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS continually assess emergency response operations, gather data regarding hazards in the city to enhance emergency response plans, and continue local mutual aid agreements for emergency response with other jurisdictions. Additionally, the City maintains an Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission and operates a Community Emergency Response Team to educate and prepare the public to respond and survive in case of natural or man-made disasters. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies and actions support implementation of the City's Emergency Operations Plan and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. For example, Policy 4.1 directs the City to increase public awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery, while Policy 4.2 promotes community-based programs in fire safety and emergency preparedness, including neighborhood -level programs and programs with businesses. Policy 4.3 increases City employee capacity through SEMS- and NIMS-compliant training and EOC drills to identify hazards and assist in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. Policy 4.4 would establish communication protocols and utilize City media resources to provide information prior to, during, or after events posing risk to community health safety, and welfare. Policy 4.5 encourages neighborhood groups to identify, consider, and prepare for the needs of neighbors with access and functional needs to adequately respond to disasters. Implementation action SAFETY -28 directs the City to identify hazard -specific evacuation routes and share them with the public, businesses, and other government agencies. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and programs as outlined above and compliance with existing federal, state, and local laws and regulations would minimize impacts on emergency response and evacuation plans from new development. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa implementation would result in less than significant impacts related to emergency access. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative setting for hazards and human health risks associated with PLAN Hermosa includes Hermosa Beach, surrounding cities, and the surrounding areas in Los Angeles County. Most hazardous materials, human health, and safety impacts are site-specific and not cumulative in nature. IMPACT 4.7-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to a Cumulative Impact on the Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, along with increased urban development in Los Angeles County, would not result in cumulative hazards impacts. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Potential exposure to or generation of hazardous conditions in the city is site-specific rather than associated with the combination of other hazards in the region resulting in a significant effect. As described in Impacts 4.7-1 and 4.7-2, adherence to existing federal, state, and local regulations regarding the handling, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials, as well as implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies, would minimize potential risks associated with accidental release and exposure to hazardous materials. Therefore, this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-10 • • 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 4.7.5 REFERENCES Cal Fire (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection). 2007. Fire Hazard Severity Zones. City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. EBB Oil Drilling & Production Project Final Environmental Impact Report.http://www.hermosabch.org/ftp/oil_docs/FEIR%20Hermosa%20beach%20Oi1%20Pr oject_AII%20Sections.pdf. . 2016. City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan. Accessed January 2014. http://www.hermosabch.ora/modules/showdocument.asox?documentid=7802 . 2017. City of Hermosa Beach 2017 Draft Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. http://www.hermosabch.orq/modules/showdocument.asox?documentid=9252 . 2017. PLAN Hermosa. DTSC (California Department of Toxic Substances Control). 2015. Registered Hazardous Waste Transporter Database. Accessed February 2014 and November 2015. https://dtsc.ca.gov/database/Transporters/index.cfm. SWRCB (State Water Resources Control Board). 2014. GeoTracker. Accessed January 2014. http://geotracker.swrcb.ca.gov/map/?CMD=runreport&myaddress= hermosabeach. . 2015. GeoTracker. Accessed January 2015. http://geotracker.swrcb.ca.gov/map /?CMD=runreport&myaddress= hermosabeach. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.7-11 4.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS This page intentionally left blank. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.7-12 • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY • • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 4.8.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to hydrology and water quality associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes a review of the watershed, surface water, groundwater, flooding, tsunami, wave run-up, sea level rise, stormwater, and surface water and groundwater quality. Water supply and wastewater treatment are discussed in Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities. Topics including erosion and sedimentation are discussed in Section 4.5, Geology and Soils. Issues regarding wetlands and waters of the United States are discussed in Section 4.3, Biological Resources, and contamination from hazardous materials is discussed in Section 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Policies and implementation actions from the PLAN Hermosa Infrastructure Element, Sustainability + Conservation Element, and Public Safety Element guide development and infrastructure practices to protect surface water and groundwater from degradation associated with runoff and pollution, reduce water consumption, and protect against flooding hazards. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing hydrology and water quality concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this EIR as Appendix C-11. 4.8.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-11 describes in detail the regional and local hydrology as well as the groundwater hydrology of the planning area. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood zones are described and mapped. Surface water and groundwater quality are also discussed. Key findings from the Technical Background Report are summarized below. HYDROLOGY • Watershed: The planning area is located in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, which overlies the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain of the Los Angeles Basin. The West Coast subbasin is adjudicated and commonly referred to as the West Coast Basin. It is bounded on the north by the Ballona Escarpment, an abandoned erosional channel from the Los Angeles River. It is bounded on the east by the Newport -Inglewood fault zone and on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean and consolidated rocks of the Palos Verdes Hills (DWR 1999). The Los Angeles River crosses the southern surface of the subbasin through the Dominguez Gap, and the San Gabriel River crosses the subbasin through the Alamitos Gap. Both rivers then flow into San Pedro Bay (DWR 2004). Major hydrologic inputs to the basin include precipitation and flows from the South Lahontan Region and the Colorado River Region. The Santa Monica Bay Watershed flows into the Pacific Ocean. The watershed has an annual discharge of more than 30 billion gallons of stormwater and urban runoff each year through 200 outlets. Urban runoff is caused by precipitation falling on impermeable pavement. • Surface Water: No freshwater waterways or surface water bodies are located in the city. Approximately 1.8 miles of the western edge of the planning area abuts the south end of Santa Monica Bay. This area includes a 400 -foot -wide sandy beach between the Pacific Ocean and urban development. Urban runoff (stormwater) flows from inland locations through the city to the Pacific Ocean through a network of drainage lines identified in Figure 11-1 in Appendix C-11, and included below as Figure 4.8-1 (Stormwater Drainage City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-1 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Map). The network is a mix of County -owned and City -owned lines that generally run east to west along major roads, including 16th Street, Pier Avenue, and 2nd Street. The lines generally terminate through one of 11 outfalls at the west end of the city on the beach or in the Pacific Ocean. • Groundwater: The planning area is in the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain of the Los Angeles Basin. The water in underlying aquifers is confined throughout most of the basin. Table 11-1 in Appendix C-11 identifies the principal aquifers in the West Coast subbasin. The Silverado aquifer is confined, underlies most of the basin, and is the most productive aquifer in the basin. It ranges from 100 to 500 feet thick and yields 80 to 90 percent of the groundwater extracted annually from the basin. The storage capacity of the Silverado aquifer is estimated to be 6.5 million acre-feet (DWR 1961). Groundwater recharge in the planning area is limited because Hermosa Beach is generally built out with urban development, with the exception of open space areas such as parks, the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, and the beach. • Floodplain: Figure 11-2 in Appendix C-11, included below as Figure 4.8-2 (FEMA Flood Zone Map), illustrates FEMA's (2008) 100 -year flood zone areas for Hermosa Beach. The entirety of the city's sandy beaches (extending from offshore waters to The Strand) are identified as a 100 -year flood zone with the designation of Zone A, which means no base flood elevations were determined. The remainder of the city is outside of the 100 -year flood zone. Because of projected sea level rise, the area inundated by 100 -year floods is expected to increase through the planning horizon; however, no regulatory maps currently identify floodplains under projected conditions. • Tsunami: The probability of a tsunami in the planning area is low. However, if a tsunami should occur, the consequences would be great (City of Hermosa Beach 2005). As illustrated in Figure 11-3 in Appendix C-11, included below as Figure 4.8-3 (Tsunami Inundation Zone), the tsunami inundation line runs parallel with Hermosa Avenue, except in the northern part of the planning area where it extends eastward as much as one city block. • Wave Run -Up: The Hermosa Beach coastline is exposed to waves generated by winter and summer storms originating in the Pacific Ocean. It is not uncommon for these storms to cause 15 -foot swells. The occurrence of such a storm event, in combination with high astronomical tides and strong winds, can cause a wave run-up and allow storm waves to come in higher than at normal elevations along the coastline. Hermosa Beach has large areas along the beachfront that are less than 15 feet above sea level. Normally, the very wide beach will buffer these areas from the surf. During heavy storm seasons, the beach can be eroded to such an extent that properties may be subject to wave run-up. This has occurred during past El Nino events and during astronomical high tides. Resulting damage has been primarily to private property, although the extent of the damage has not been documented (City of Hermosa Beach 2005). • Sea Level Rise: For the Los Angeles region, sea level rise is expected with an increase of 0.3 inches to 2.0 feet from 2000 to 2050 and 1.3 to 5.6 feet from 2000 to 2100 (NRC 2012; Grifman et al. 2013). As noted above, coastal flooding is exacerbated by storm surge and high tides. Although there is variability in sea level rise projections, even a minor increase in sea level could lead to substantial increases in coastal flooding severity and frequency. These conditions could affect coastal infrastructure and increase the effect of flooding from coastal -related events in the planning area. The City is conducting a project to forecast how coastal shallow groundwater elevation and salinity may respond to project increases in sea level rise in the sandy, low-lying coastal soils to evaluate the vulnerability of existing storm drain outfalls that could be inundated at high tide and cause localized flooding. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY WATER QUALITY Surface Water • There are no potable surface water resources in the city. However, Hermosa Beach and Santa Monica Bay are designated as "water quality -limited" for impairments under federal Clean Water Act Section 303(d), indicating that these water bodies are not reasonably expected to attain or maintain water quality standards due to impairments without additional regulation. Impairment is measured by Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards. Table 11-2 in the Technical Background Report (see Appendix C-11) identifies the listing category, pollutant, and pollutant type for Hermosa Beach and Santa Monica Bay. • The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have developed two TMDLs for Hermosa Beach: the Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL and the Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Wet Weather TMDL (Los Angeles RWQCB 2002a, 2002b). The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL (Resolution No. 02-004, Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan -Los Angeles Region) notes that elevated bacterial indicator densities were causing impairment of water contact recreation beneficial uses at many Santa Monica Bay beaches. Dry weather bacteriological objectives identified in the Los Angeles Region Basin Plan include limits for total coliform density, fecal coliform density, and enterococcus density. The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL sets the number of days that can be in exceedance of the limits identified in the basin plan. Weekly shoreline monitoring is conducted at seven sites under the Coordinated Shoreline Monitoring Plan for the Santa Monica Bay beaches bacteria TMDL. • The City of Hermosa Beach is not aware of any significant water quality degradation in the watershed during the latest reporting year (2014-15). Two shoreline monitoring sites predominantly influenced by runoff from the city have maintained consistently better water quality than the reference beach site monitoring location.1 An open beach shoreline monitoring location at the extension of 26th Street in Hermosa Beach has historically exhibited a lower rate of exceedence than the reference beach. The nearest storm drain outfall ends approximately 300 feet from the shoreline. TMDL bacteria objectives for this site were not exceeded during the 2014-15 reporting year. • The City has implemented several projects to reduce and minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff generated by land uses in the city to help protect water quality. The Hermosa Strand Infiltration Trench is a subsurface trench approximately 1,000 feet long along The Strand and diverts dry weather flows year-round from the 36 -acre area of the Pier Avenue storm drain. Monitoring shows that the system effectively removes bacteria load from runoff diverted to the trench. The Pier Avenue Improvement Project is a "green" multi -benefit streetscape improvement that retrofitted the city's main street to capture and treat stormwater/urban runoff from residential areas and commercial development in the downtown corridor (36 -acre drainage area). The project has reduced dry weather flows and wet weather low flows through infiltration in both subwatersheds. The City's Public Works Department implements green streets retrofits whenever the opportunity arises as part of capital improvement projects through installation of infiltration boxes within the public right-of-way. A section of Hermosa Avenue has been retrofitted with this system. The 1 The reference beach is Leo Carillo Beach at the outlet of Arroyo Sequit Canyon, a freshwater creek draining 12 square miles of almost entirely undeveloped open space. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-3 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY City has also installed trash filter/capture inserts on several catch basins. As part of the infrastructure vulnerability assessment noted above, the City is assessing how projected increases in sea level rise could affect existing and planned stormwater infiltration systems and low -flow diversions designed to meet stormwater quality standards. • Two additional TMDLs were approved by the Los Angeles RWQCB and the EPA after the 303(d) list: Santa Monica Bay Total Maximum Daily Loads for DDTs and PCBs (2012) and Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDL (2010). As a co -permittee to the Los Angeles MS4 NPDES Permit (see below), the City of Hermosa Beach is responsible for meeting water quality -based effluent limitations that allow Santa Monica Bay to meet TMDL targets identified in the Santa Monica Bay Total Daily Maximum Loads for DDTs and PCBs and the Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDL. • Stormwater runoff into Santa Monica Bay is regulated primarily through four National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits: - The municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) NPDES permit issued to the municipalities in the urbanized area of Los Angeles County, except the City of Long Beach, which has its own MS4 NPDES permit. - A separate statewide stormwater permit specifically for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) - The statewide Construction Activities Stormwater General Permit - The statewide Industrial Activities Stormwater General Permit The Los Angeles MS4 permit was first issued in 1990 and includes 85 co -permittees, including Los Angeles County and the City of Hermosa Beach. The latest revision of the permit (Order No. R4-2012-0175) was issued on November 8, 2012, and amended by the State Water Resources Control Board (Order No. WQ 2015-0075) on June 16, 2015. Groundwater • In the Silverado zone, the character of water varies considerably. In the coastal region, the water is calcium chloride in character, transitioning into sodium bicarbonate moving inland. Data from 45 public supply wells shows average total dissolved solids content of 720 milligrams per liter and a range of 170 to 5,510 milligrams per liter (DWR 2004). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-4 • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY FIGURE 4.8-1 STORMWATER DRAINAGE MAP Legend ra.wylr, !tern Drain Un.. Car rwred .-.... Co.r s craws City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-5 PLAN Hermosa 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY FIGURE 4.8-2 FEMA FLOOD ZONE MAP Legend a+ycproar, Cnxsf3' Lan Hvnxy Flood tons Type irm 1C0 Year iixd tare SCO Yew ftcd Zone PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-6 • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY FIGURE 4.8-3 TSUNAMI INUNDATION ZONE Legend ..,._.._ Gere r ::TAF fBvrR» - Wt4t4 C 6sc ryy� r,„ EMIE..: 3 rr• '.rr.nn7a 14,4elvvfn eatI z,rrt City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-7 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 4.8.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to hydrology and water quality in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of hydrology and water quality that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for hydrology and water quality is discussed in detail in Appendix C-11. Key regulations used to reduce potential impacts of the proposed project are summarized below. FEDERAL • Clean Water Act: The Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 is the primary federal law that governs and authorizes the EPA and the states to implement activities to control water quality. The following sections outline the various water quality elements of the CWA that apply to PLAN Hermosa. - Water Quality Criteria and Standards. The EPA is the federal agency with primary authority for implementing regulations adopted under the Clean Water Act. The EPA has delegated to the State of California the authority to implement and oversee most of the programs authorized or adopted for CWA compliance through the State's Porter -Cologne Act, described below. Under federal law, the EPA has published water quality regulations under Volume 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Section 303 of the CWA requires states to adopt water quality standards for all surface waters of the United States. As defined by the CWA, water quality standards consist of the designated beneficial uses of the water body in question and criteria that protect the designated uses. Section 304(a) requires the EPA to publish advisory water quality criteria that accurately reflect the latest scientific knowledge on the kind and extent of all effects on health and welfare that may be expected from the presence of pollutants in water. Where multiple uses exist, water quality standards must protect the most sensitive use. - National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Proaram. The CWA established the NPDES permit program to regulate municipal and industrial discharges to surface waters of the United States. A discharge from any point source is unlawful unless the discharge is in compliance with an NPDES permit. Federal NPDES permit regulations have been established for broad categories of point source discharges including industrial wastewater, municipal wastewater, and point sources of stormwater runoff, including municipal separate storm sewer systems and industrial stormwater which includes construction sites. NPDES permits generally establish effluent and receiving water limits on allowable concentrations and/or mass emissions of pollutants contained in the discharge, prohibitions on discharges not specifically allowed under the permit, and provisions that describe required actions by the discharger, including industrial pretreatment, pollution prevention, self-monitoring, and other activities. The City is regulated because its stormwater is managed as part of a large, interconnected flood control system operated by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. Construction sites in the planning area that disturb 1 acre or more must obtain coverage under the statewide NPDES Construction General Permit. Currently there are no industrial facilities in the planning area that are subject to the statewide NPDES Industrial General Permit. The RWQCBs implement the NPDES permit system (see additional information under the State subsection below). The planning area is within the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles RWQCB. — Section 401 Water Quality Certification or Waiver. Under Section 401 of the CWA, an applicant for a Section 404 permit (to discharge dredged or fill material into waters of the United States) must first obtain a certificate from the appropriate state agency PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-8 • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY indicating that the fill is consistent with the state's water quality standards and criteria. In California, the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards have the authority to grant water quality certification or waive requirements. — Section 303(d) Impaired Waters List. Section 303(d) of the CWA requires states to develop lists of water bodies that would not attain water quality objectives after implementation of required levels of treatment by point -source dischargers (municipalities and industries). Section 303(d) requires that the state develop a TMDL for each of the listed pollutants. As noted previously, the TMDL is the amount of loading that the water body can receive and still be in compliance with water quality objectives. The TMDL can also act as a plan to reduce loading of a specific pollutant from various sources to achieve compliance with water quality objectives. The state - prepared TMDL must include an allocation of allowable loadings to point and nonpoint sources, with consideration of background loadings (sources of naturally occurring pollutants) and a margin of safety. The TMDL must also include an analysis that shows links between loading reductions and the attainment of water quality objectives. NPDES permit limits for listed pollutants must be consistent with the waste load allocation prescribed in the TMDL. After implementation of a TMDL, it is intended that the problems which led to placement of a given pollutant on the Section 303(d) list would be remediated. • National Flood Insurance Program: FEMA administers the National Flood Insurance Program to provide subsidized flood insurance to communities that comply with FEMA regulations limiting development in floodplains. FEMA also issues Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) that identify which land areas are subject to flooding. These maps provide flood information and identify flood hazard zones in communities. FEMA established the design standard for flood protection in areas covered by FIRMs, with the minimum level of flood protection for new development determined to be a 1 -in -100 probability of annual exceedance (i.e., the 100 -year flood event). As developments are proposed and constructed, FEMA is also responsible for issuing revisions to FIRMs, such as Conditional Letters of Map Revision and Letters of Map Revision through the local agencies that work with the National Flood Insurance Program. • US Army Corps of Engineers: The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for issuing permits for the placement of fill or discharge of material into waters of the United States. These permits are required under Clean Water Act Sections 401 and 404. Water supply projects that involve stream construction, such as dams or other types of diversion structures, trigger the need for these permits and related environmental reviews by the USACE. The USACE also is responsible for flood control planning and assisting state and local agencies with the design and funding of local flood control projects. STATE • California Coastal Act of 1976: The California Coastal Act of 1976 and the California Coastal Commission, the state's coastal protection and planning agency, were established by voter initiative in 1972 to plan for and regulate new development and to protect public access to and along the shoreline. The Coastal Act considers water quality and water -related public safety concerns as issues of public importance. • State Water Resources Control Board: In California, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has broad authority over issues related to controlling water quality for the state. The SWRCB is responsible for developing statewide water quality policy and exercises the powers delegated to the state by the federal government under the Clean Water Act. Regional authority for planning, permitting, and enforcement is delegated to the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs). The regional boards are required to formulate and adopt basin plans for all areas in the region and establish water quality City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 20I7 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-9 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY objectives in the plans. California water quality objectives (or "criteria" under the CWA) are found in the basin plans adopted by the SWRCB and each of the nine regional boards. The Los Angeles RWQCB is responsible for the Hermosa Beach planning area and the surrounding region. In 2006, the SWRCB adopted Order Number 2006-003 establishing General Waste Discharge Requirements for all publicly owned or operated sanitary sewer systems in California. The Waste Discharge Requirements require owners and operators of sewer collection systems to report sanitary sewer overflows using the California Integrated Water Quality System and to develop and implement a Sewer System Management Plan. The Hermosa Beach Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, adopted in 2009 and updated in 2011, details sewer collection system operations, maintenance, repair, and funding. Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities, of this EIR addresses wastewater treatment issues and the state regulations that apply to the demonstration of adequate water supply for the future water demands caused by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. • Title 22 Standards: California's drinking water quality standards are contained in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. Water quality standards are enforceable limits composed of two parts: the designated beneficial uses of water and criteria (i.e., numeric or narrative limits) to protect those beneficial uses. Municipal and domestic supply is among the "beneficial uses" defined in Section 13050(f) of the Porter -Cologne Act as uses of surface water and groundwater that must be protected against water quality degradation. Drinking water maximum contaminant levels (MCLS) directly apply to water supply systems "at the tap" (i.e., at the point of use by consumers in, for example, their home and office) and are enforceable by the State and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. When fully health -protective, MCLs may also be used to interpret narrative water quality objectives prohibiting toxicity to humans in water designated as a source of drinking water in the basin plan. • Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act: The Porter -Cologne Act is California's statutory authority for the protection of water quality. Under the act, the State must adopt water quality policies, plans, and objectives that protect the state's waters for the use and enjoyment of the people. The act sets forth the obligations of the SWRCB and the RWQCBs to adopt and periodically update basin plans. Basin plans are the regional water quality control plans required by both the Clean Water Act and the Porter -Cologne Act in which beneficial uses, water quality objectives, and implementation programs are established for each of the nine regions in California. The act also requires waste dischargers to notify the RWQCBs of their activities through the filing of reports of waste discharge and authorizes the SWRCB and the RWQCBs to issue and enforce waste discharge requirements (WDR), NPDES permits, Section 401 water quality certifications, or other approvals. The RWQCBs also have authority to issue waivers to reports of waste discharge and/or WDRs for broad categories of "low threat" discharge activities that have minimal potential for adverse water quality effects when implemented according to prescribed terms and conditions. • Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Basin Plan: The planning area is in the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles RWQCB, which is responsible for the preparation and implementation of the water quality control plan for the Los Angeles region (Los Angeles RWQCB 1995). The basin plan defines the beneficial uses, water quality objectives, implementation programs, and surveillance and monitoring programs for waters of the coastal drainages in the Los Angeles region between Rincon Point on the coast of western Ventura County and the eastern Los Angeles County line. The basin plan contains specific numeric water quality objectives that apply to certain water bodies or portions of water bodies. Objectives have been established for bacteria, dissolved oxygen, pH, pesticides, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, temperature, turbidity, and trace elements. Numerous narrative water quality objectives have also been established. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-10 • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY • California Ocean Plan: Section 13170.2 of the California Water Code directs the SWRCB to formulate and adopt a water quality control plan for California's ocean waters. The SWRCB first adopted this plan, known as the California Ocean Plan, in 1972. The California Water Code also requires a review of the California Ocean Plan at least every three years to guarantee that current standards are adequate and are not allowing degradation to indigenous marine species or posing a threat to human health. The current iteration of the California Ocean Plan (SWRCB 2012) establishes water quality objectives for California's ocean waters and provides the basis for regulation of wastes discharged into the state's coastal waters. • California State Nondegradation Policy: In 1968, the SWRCB adopted a nondegradation policy aimed at maintaining high quality for waters in California. The nondegradation policy states that the disposal of wastes into state waters shall be regulated to achieve the highest water quality consistent with maximum benefit to the people of the state and to promote the peace, health, safety, and welfare of the people of California. The policy provides as follows: - Where the existing quality of water is better than required under existing water quality control plans, such quality would be maintained until it has been demonstrated that any change would be consistent with maximum benefit to the people of the state and would not unreasonably affect present and anticipated beneficial uses of such water. - Any activity which produces waste or increases the volume or concentration of waste and which discharges to existing high-quality waters would be required to meet waste discharge requirements, which would ensure (1) pollution or nuisance would not occur and (2) the highest water quality consistent with the maximum benefit to the people of the state would be maintained. • NPDES Permit System and Waste Discharge Requirements for Construction: The SWRCB and the Los Angeles RWQCB have adopted specific NPDES permits for a variety of activities that have potential to discharge wastes to waters of the State. The SWRCB General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities (Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ, as amended by Order No. 2010-0014-DWQ and Order No. 2012-0006-DWQ) applies to all land -disturbing construction activities that would affect 1 acre or more. The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board has issued a general NPDES permit and general WDRs governing construction -related dewatering discharges in the Los Angeles RWQCB's jurisdictional area (Los Angeles RWQCB Order No. R4-2003-0111; NPDES No. CAG994004). The Los Angeles RWQCB may also issue site-specific WDRs, or waivers to WDRs, for certain waste discharges to land or waters of the State. Activities subject to the NPDES general permit for construction activity must develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP includes a site map and description of construction activities and identifies the best management practices that will be employed to prevent soil erosion and discharge of other construction -related pollutants, such as petroleum products, solvents, paints, and cement that could contaminate nearby water resources. • Municipal Stormwater Permit Program: The SWRCB Municipal Storm Water Permitting Program regulates stormwater discharges from municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s). The current MS4 permit (Order No. R4-2012-0175 [NPDES Permit No. CAS004001, Waste Discharge Requirements for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System [MS4] Discharges within the Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles County], as amended by Order No. WQ 2015-0075) requires the discharger to develop and implement a stormwater management plan/program with the goal of reducing the discharge of pollutants in stormwater to the maximum extent practicable (MEP). The MEP is the performance standard specified in federal Clean Water Act Section 402(p). The management programs City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-11 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY specify what best management practices will be used to address certain program areas. The permit establishes new performance criteria for new development and redevelopment projects in the Coastal Zone, including low impact development (LID). The City of Hermosa Beach is a co -permittee under the MS4 permit. As a co -permittee, the City is required to maintain adequate legal authority within its respective jurisdiction to control pollutant discharges and to require the use of control measures to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants into the MS4 to achieve water quality standards. • Recycled Wastewater Requirements: Wastewater recycling in California is regulated under California Code of Regulations Title 22, Division 4, under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Public Health. The intent of these regulations is to ensure protection of public health associated with the use of recycled water. The regulations establish acceptable levels of constituents in recycled water for a range of uses and prescribe means for ensuring reliability in the production of recycled water. Using recycled water for nonpotable uses is common throughout the state and is an effective means of maximizing use of water resources. The Los Angeles RWQCB establishes water reclamation requirements under the Title 22 regulations and is responsible for implementing wastewater recycling projects. REGIONAL • Enhanced Watershed Management Plan for Beach Cities: Following adoption of the MS4 permit, the Cities of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Torrance, together with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD), collectively referred to as the Beach Cities Watershed Management Group (Beach Cities WMG) agreed to collaborate on the development of an Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP) for the Santa Monica Bay and Dominguez Channel Watershed areas within their jurisdictions (referred to as the Beach Cities EWMP Area). Under Part IV.0 of the MS4 permit (Watershed Management Program), the permittees are afforded the flexibility to develop watershed management programs to implement the requirements of the permit on a watershed scale through customized strategies, control measures, and best management practices. The Beach Cities EWMP summarizes watershed -specific water quality priorities identified by the Beach Cities WMG; outlines the program plan, including specific strategies, control measures, and best management practices to achieve water quality targets; and describes the quantitative analysis completed to support target achievement and permit compliance. A reasonable assurance analysis was prepared in conjunction with the EWMP to demonstrate on a quantitative basis that the EWMP will achieve the requirements of the MS4 permit for the members of the Beach Cities Watershed Management Group. A timeline, estimated costs, and potential funding sources are also described in the EWMP. Currently, regional best management practices have been constructed within the Beach Cities EWMP planning area, including two in Hermosa Beach (Pier Avenue Improvement project and Hermosa Strand Infiltration Trench project). Future projects proposed in Hermosa Beach are the Hermosa Beach Infiltration Beach project, the Hermosa Beach Greenbelt Infiltration project, and two green street projects. The projects in Hermosa Beach have not been funded, and a schedule for implementation has not yet been developed. The Beach Cities EWMP was approved by the Los Angeles RWQCB on April 18, 2016, under its authority to administer the MS4 permit. The EWMP does not establish policies or regulations that the participating cities must impose on new development or redevelopment, nor does the program require the construction of the specific features identified in the EWMP. However, the approach described in the EWMP, in combination with the required LID -based best management practices that each participating city must PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-12 • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY impose on development, is anticipated to protect and potentially improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay from pollutants in stormwater runoff. LOCAL • Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations: Chapter 8.44 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code ensures consistency with the requirements of the federal Clean Water Act and the California Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act, and acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto, applicable implementing regulations, and the Municipal NPDES Permit, and any amendment, revision, or reissuance thereof. • Low Impact Development Ordinance: The City has been requiring LID best management practices for certain residential and commercial projects since 2015, when it adopted a customized amendment to the California Green Building Code. As required by the current MS4 permit, Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 8.44.095 (LID Ordinance) sets forth low impact development requirements for new development and redevelopment (Ordinance No. 15-1351). All new development or new building construction in Hermosa Beach will be required to comply with the LID requirements regardless of the area of impervious surface or acreage disturbed, which exceeds the minimum applicability requirements of the MS4 permit. Consistent with the MS4 permit, redevelopment projects of any type that add or replace more than 5,000 square feet of impervious surface area will also be required to comply with the LID requirements, with the further proviso that redevelopment projects located directly adjacent to a significant ecological area will be subject to LID requirements if they propose addition or replacement of more than 2,500 square feet of impervious surface area.2 The City has been implementing the LID Ordinance requirements since 2015. • Green Street Policy: The City adopted a policy (Resolution No. 15-0013) in 2015 to implement green street best management practices as elements of street and roadway projects, including public works capital improvement projects, to the maximum extent practicable. This policy is intended to demonstrate compliance with the MS4 permit. Water quality improvement and groundwater replenishment benefits are achieved through designs that minimize impervious area and incorporate bioretention elements (e.g., vegetated swales) to facilitate natural pollutant removal while allowing stormwater retention and/or infiltration. • Floodplain Management Regulations: Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Chapter 8.52 regulates development in floodplains to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions through provisions designed to protect human life and health; minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects; minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally undertaken at the expense of the general public; minimize prolonged business interruptions; and minimize damage to public facilities and utilities. To accomplish these purposes, this chapter includes regulations to restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or flood heights or velocities; require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction; control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers which help accommodate or channel floodwaters; control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damage; and prevent or regulate the 2 The complete text of the LID Ordinance may be found at: http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/HermosaBeach/#!/hermosabeach08/HermosaBeach0844.html #8.44.095 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-13 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert floodwaters or which may increase flood hazards in other areas. 4.8.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on hydrology and water quality are considered significant if implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements. 2) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level that would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted). 3) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial on- or off-site erosion or siltation. 4) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in on- or off-site flooding. 5) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. 6) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality. 7) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map. 8) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures that would impede or redirect flood flows. 9) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam. 10) Result in inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow. ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. The following analysis of impacts on hydrology and water quality is qualitative and based on available hydrologic and water quality information for the planning area, along with a review of regional information. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area complies with applicable laws, regulations, and plans. An analysis of cumulative impacts uses qualitative information for the planning area, Santa Monica Bay, and the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain of the Los Angeles Basin. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address hydrology and water quality include the following: PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-14 • • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Policies Public Safety Element • 1.1 Evaluate risks. Buildings and infrastructure will be periodically evaluated for seismic, fire, flood, and coastal storm hazard risks and identified risks will be minimized by complying with California Building Code standards and other applicable regulations. • 1.3 Tsunami Playbook. Work with Los Angeles County and utilize resources such as the Tsunami Playbook in the evaluation and response of tsunami risk. • 1.5 Minimize coastal flooding. Natural interventions, green infrastructure, and infiltration systems will be utilized to minimize damage from coastal flooding. • 1.6 Minimize coastal hazards. Injuries and loss of life are prevented, and property loss and damage from coastal hazards are minimized. • 1.7 Reduce flood vulnerability. Encourage existing structures, critical facilities, and infrastructure to reduce flood vulnerability. • 1.8 Reduce stormwater runoff. Reduce stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. • 1.11 Secure funds. Establish centralized internal procedures to coordinate efforts for securing funds that support risk reduction measures. • 2.1 Integrate resilience. Integrate resilience to anticipated sea level rise impacts into project designs when repairing and replacing aging infrastructure. • 2.2 Mitigate impacts. Require new development and redevelopment projects to consider and mitigate relevant sea level rise impacts. • 2.3 Enhance awareness. Enhance local understanding of sea level rise and keep decision - makers and the community aware of potential impacts based on best available science. • 2.4 Provide public information. Provide public information describing new flooding risks under a 55 -inch sea level rise scenario in areas previously not affected by flooding. • 2.5 Maintain beach widths. Maintain or expand current beach widths under changing sea level conditions. • 2.6 Consider sea level rise. Consider the combined effects of sea level rise when evaluating potential tsunami and storm surge impacts. • 2.7 Support regional approaches. Support regional approaches to sediment management, beach replenishment, and adaptive shoreline protection to allow Hermosa Beach to voice its needs, allow for coordination with neighboring jurisdictions, and identify creative finance mechanisms to continue the replenishment program. • 2.8 Identify erosion problems. Continue to monitor beach width and elevations to identify potential erosion problems. • 4.1 Public awareness. Increase public awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery through updated evacuation routes and informational signage. • 4.2 Promote community-based programs. Promote community-based programs in fire safety and emergency preparedness, including neighborhood -level and business programs and community volunteer groups such as CERT, Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Policing and the Amateur Radio Association. • 4.3 SEMS and NIMS training. Increase City employee capacity through the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant training and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) drills to identify hazards, and assist in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-15 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY • 4.4 City media and communication resources. Maintain the City's emergency communication policy and protocols and utilize City media resources, emergency alert notification systems, and program advertising to provide information and communicate with the community prior to, during, or after events posing risk to community health safety, and welfare. • 4.5 Responsive neighborhood groups. Encourage neighborhood groups, including Neighborhood Watch, to identify, consider, and prepare for the needs of neighbors with access and functional needs to adequately respond to disasters. • 4.6 Vulnerable populations. Incorporate procedures into emergency and hazard mitigation plans to take care of vulnerable populations during hazardous events. • 6.1 Regularly update plans. Regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans, in a manner that is compliant with state and federal standards. • 6.2 Coastal incidents. Collaborate and maintain communication between the City, LA County Lifeguards, and the United States Coast Guard concerning incidents on or near the coast. • 6.3 Invest in critical facilities. Dedicate funds to upgrade and maintain essential facilities (including EOC, Police/Fire Facilities, and City Hall) to make them more resilient to the potential impacts of natural disasters. Infrastructure Element • 4.8 Holistic systems planning. Develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. • 5.1 Integration of stormwater best practices. Integrate stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. • 5.2 Green infrastructure. Naturalize flood channels that enhance flood protection capacity before employing other management solutions. • 5.3 Natural features. Integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way to capture stormwater and prevent runoff. • 5.4 Conservation behavior. Encourage community behavior changes to reduce urban runoff pollution by incentivizing the capture of rainwater to prevent runoff and meet on- site water demand. • 5.5 Stormwater system maintenance. Maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the City's stormwater infrastructure. • 5.6 Stormwater system repairs. Ensure that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other City infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. • 5.7 Stormwater permits. Strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 NPDES Permit requirements through stormwater ordinances. • 5.8 Low impact development. Require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development (LID) techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Sustainability + Conservation Element • 5.2 Rainwater collection. Encourage innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture, use of cisterns, and installation of greywater. • 7.1 Permeable pavement. Require the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-16 • • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY • 7.2 Soil erosion. Minimize soil erosion by ensuring best practices are used in grading and construction. Implementation Actions • SUSTAINABILITY -9. Maintain and periodically update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan sections of the Municipal Code to facilitate the use of new technologies or practices to conserve water. • SAFETY -5. Evaluate tsunami preparation, evacuation, and response policies/practices to reflect current inundation maps and design standards. Include updated information in the periodically updated hazard mitigation plan. • SAFETY -9. Continue working with regional partners to develop a local sea level rise model that evaluates erosion potential, provides detailed inundation maps, and provides combined sea level rise and tsunami maps. • SAFETY -10. When the mean high water level exceeds 1 foot above the baseline level, partner with FEMA as a cooperating technical partner to conduct a Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study, and facilitate necessary revisions to applicable Flood Insurance Rate Maps. • SAFETY -11. Prepare for changing shoreline conditions by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: - Require new development or redevelopment project proposals within the designated area subject to flooding, inundation, or erosion due to sea level rise to describe and illustrate in site plans how the proposed project considers and mitigates potential flood hazards during the economic lifespan of the structure. Potential flood mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, flood proofing; increased ground floor elevation (a minimum of 1 -foot freeboard); ground -floor, flood -resistant exterior materials; and restricting fencing or yard enclosures that cause water to pond. - Require new development or redevelopment projects to assure stability and structural integrity and neither create nor contribute significantly to erosion, geologic instability, or destruction of the project site or surrounding area. - As local flood, erosion, and tsunami data becomes more precise, amend the General Plan and Zoning Code to establish more specific development standards and conditions. • SAFETY -12. Amend the Municipal Code to establish a definition of "economic lifespan" for structural development as between 75 to 100 years, unless otherwise specified, and provide restrictions for specific development proposals. • SAFETY -13. Amend the Municipal Code to require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of expanded flood risk when properties subject to inundation or flooding are developed or redeveloped. • SAFETY -14. Continue to participate in regional sediment management planning. • SAFETY -15. Develop a long-term adaptive shoreline management program with a strong preference for beach replenishment over shoreline protective structures. • INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. - Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. - Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans (CIPS) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-17 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY - Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. • INFRASTRUCTURE -9. Consult with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies, provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. • INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. • INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. • INFRASTRUCTURE -12. Amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing hookups for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and major redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available based on adopted infrastructure plans. • INFRASTRUCTURE -13. Continue to implement the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan and any implementing ordinances, including imposition of fines and other appropriate enforcement tools, for violations of water conservation rules. • INFRASTRUCTURE -18. Continue to implement and incorporate revisions to the Clean Bay Restaurant Program and Grease Control Ordinance. • INFRASTRUCTURE -19. Update program requirements to integrate the latest available Best Management Practices into the City Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, Low Impact Development (LID) Ordinance, and Green Street Policy and regularly monitor results. • INFRASTRUCTURE -20. Complete municipal demonstration projects showing residential and business property best practices in urban runoff, green streets, and LID. • INFRASTRUCTURE -21. Continue to require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street BMPs that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. • INFRASTRUCTURE -22. Continue to install educational signs or symbols on major public storm drains. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.8-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Adversely Affect Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that could alter existing stormwater runoff and associated pollutants. However, the potential for stormwater flows to affect water quality would be controlled through implementation of Municipal Code Chapter 8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), which includes the City's Low -Impact Development (LID) Ordinance (Municipal Code Section 8.44.095), and the City's Green Street Policy. Construction activities resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would also temporarily increase the amount of sediments and pollutants in stormwater runoff. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations (Municipal Code Section 8.44.090 and NPDES Construction General Permit SWPPP requirements) would result in a less than significant impact. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-18 • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Water quality standards and waste discharge requirements that are applicable to PLAN Hermosa are set forth in the Basin Plan and various NPDES permits, which are described in the Regulatory Setting subsection. From a hydrologic perspective, the primary way in which PLAN Hermosa would result in water quality impacts is a function of pollutants contained in stormwater runoff, which could occur during construction and/or occupancy of projects. Hermosa Beach is generally built out with urban development, with the exception of open space areas such as parks, vacant parcels, the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, and the beach. Urbanized land in Hermosa Beach is not anticipated to substantially increase with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa because the city is largely built out, with new development limited to infill and redevelopment where existing impervious surfaces and developed conditions already exist. Therefore, the potential for future development and reuse projects consistent with PLAN Hermosa to result in a substantial alteration in existing city water quality impacts is limited. Construction activities such as grading, excavation, and trenching may result from development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. These types of land -disturbing construction activities result in the potential for increased soil erosion and sedimentation in stormwater runoff. In addition, general construction activities would contribute pollutants such as construction waste, diesel and oil from equipment, solvents, and lubricants. Sediment and contaminants could enter the stormwater drainage system and eventually enter Santa Monica Bay. The potential increase in soil erosion, siltation, and construction -related pollutants could degrade downstream surface water or groundwater. However, future projects would be required to comply with NPDES requirements. Construction activities disturbing 1 acre or more would be subject to the NPDES Construction Activities Stormwater General Permit and would be required to eliminate or reduce non-stormwater discharges to storm sewer systems and other waters and consider the use of post - construction permanent best management practices. Projects over 1 acre would also be required to develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan with best management practices that would be employed to prevent soil erosion and discharge of other construction related pollutants, as well as a monitoring program to ensure that best management practices are implemented appropriately and are effective at controlling discharges of pollutants related to stormwater. Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Title 8, Chapter 8.44, Section 8.44.090 describes requirements for sediment and erosion control best management practices and SWPPPs. Best management practices may consist of a wide variety of measures appropriate to reduce pollutants in stormwater. PLAN Hermosa includes several policies and implementing actions that would apply to new development and redevelopment. Public Safety Element Policy 1.8 directs the City to reduce stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. Infrastructure Element Policy 4.8 directs the City to develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. The Infrastructure Element contains Policies 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, and 5.8 that would further reduce impacts to water quality. Policy 5.1 integrates stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. Policy 5.3 directs the City to integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. Policy 5.4 encourages community behavior changes to reduce urban runoff pollution. Policy 5.5 directs the City to maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the city's stormwater infrastructure. Policy 5.6 ensures that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other city infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. Policy 5.7 directs the City to strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 NPDES permit requirements. Policy 5.8 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate LID techniques in project designs, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-19 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 5.2 encourages innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture, use of cisterns, and installation of greywater systems. Additionally, Policy 7.1 requires the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas, while Policy 7.2 would seek to minimize soil erosion by ensuring best practices are used in grading and construction. Infrastructure Element implementation action INFRASTRUCTURE -12 would amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual plumbing to facilitate use of recycled water for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available. INFRASTRUCTURE -18 directs the City to continue to fully implement and expand the Clean Bay Restaurant Program and the Grease Control Ordinance. INFRASTRUCTURE -1 directs the City to incorporate stormwater infrastructure improvements in a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan. INFRASTRUCTURE -19 updates program requirements in the City's Storm Water Management and Discharge Control Ordinance and regularly monitors results. INFRASTRUCTURE - 20 directs the City to continue to implement the Low Impact Development Ordinance and monitor ordinance effectiveness. INFRASTRUCTURE -21 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street best management practices that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. Implementation of these policies, in combination with continued implementation of Municipal Code Chapter 8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), Municipal Code Section 8.44.095 (Low -Impact Development (LID) Ordinance), and the City's Green Street Policy would ensure projects developed under PLAN Hermosa would be in compliance with applicable water quality standards (e.g., the Basin Plan) and waste discharge requirements (e.g., NPDES MS4 permit) and would offset any new development impacts to water quality. Since 2010, the City has required LID best management practices in certain projects, and beginning in 2015-16, all projects have been required to comply with the City's LID Ordinance, which provides greater stormwater protection than required by the MS4 permit by requiring projects to maintain stormwater runoff on-site, among other requirements. The City also has implemented several projects to control pollutants in stormwater runoff that have been demonstrated to provide effective pollutant removal and meet water quality objectives and has identified additional projects in the Beach Cities EWMP to help further improve water quality. This EWMP is based on a Reasonable Assurance Analysis to ensure the requirements of the MS4 permit will be met, and will be implemented during the life of the PLAN Hermosa. The proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions related to hydrology and water quality are consistent with and support applicable plans and regulations. Therefore, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not violate water quality standards or waste discharge requirements, and impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Deplete Groundwater Supplies or Substantially Interfere with Groundwater Recharge? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally affect groundwater recharge because existing areas of open space would be preserved, and implementation of the City's LID Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require permeable area in new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure improvements, resulting in a less than significant impact. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-20 • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Hermosa Beach is generally built out with urban land uses and has minimal areas of vacant, developable permeable land. Proposed PLAN Hermosa land use policies promote the redevelopment of existing urbanized areas, and the overall net area of urbanized land is not anticipated to substantially increase. Redevelopment would generally occur in underutilized areas that are currently covered with impervious surfaces. Site redevelopment may provide opportunities to create new permeable surfaces through new landscaping and use of porous pavements, potentially reducing the amount of runoff and associated pollutants. Thus, very small amounts of new impervious surface would result from development associated with implementation of the plan, which would not significantly affect infiltration of water into the ground. With incorporation of the LID requirements, development that occurs as the result of PLAN Hermosa would have lower runoff and higher permeability than observed in baseline conditions. The potential for groundwater recharge impacts would be further reduced through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies. Infrastructure Element contains policies Policy 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.8, that would address potential impacts to groundwater recharge. Policy 5.1 that integrates stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. Policy 5.2 directs the City to naturalize flood channels that enhance flood protection capacity before employing other management solutions. Policy 5.3 directs the City to integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. Policy 5.8 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 5.2 encourages innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture, use of cisterns, and installation of greywater systems. Policy 7.1 requires the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low - intensity paved areas. Each of these policies individually and in combination would maintain and possibly improve recharge opportunities in the subbasin. In addition to the policies listed above, Infrastructure Element Policy 4.8 directs the City to develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. PLAN Hermosa also contains implementation actions intended to increase groundwater recharge over baseline conditions. INFRASTRUCTURE -19 directs the City to continue to implement the Low Impact Development Ordinance and to monitor ordinance effectiveness. INFRASTRUCTURE -21 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street best management practices that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. Because of the minimal amount of new impervious surface that would result with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the rate of infiltration needed to support groundwater recharge would not be substantially decreased. Additionally, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and actions, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and projects anticipated in the Beach Cities EWMP, would help maintain and protect groundwater recharge resources by ensuring infiltration potential is not reduced and that pollutants as specified in the management plan are removed to the maximum extent practicable. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-21 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY IMPACT 4.8-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Alter the Existing Drainage Pattern of the Site or Area so as to Result in Substantial On- or Off -Site Erosion or Siltation? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally alter drainage patterns and the amount of storm water runoff, which would minimize the potential for erosion or siltation. Continued implementation and enforcement of existing grading, erosion, and flood control regulations, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a less than significant impact. As described above in Impact 4.8-1, Hermosa Beach is generally built out with urban development and has minimal areas of vacant permeable land, with the exception of parkland, the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, and the beach. The city has no natural drainage features. With only a few vacant parcels that are small and generally not contiguous, new development would not be of such scale that drainage patterns would be substantially altered, which would limit the potential for increased erosion or sedimentation. For example, most recent development in the city has included demolition and reconstruction of single-family homes, small commercial redevelopment, or two -unit condominium projects. Development along shoreline areas, which could be susceptible to erosion from wave and tidal action and/or sea level rise effects, would be limited under PLAN Hermosa. The potential for erosion or siltation impacts would be further reduced through implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions. Public Safety Element Policy 1.5 directs the City to use natural interventions, green infrastructure, and infiltration systems to minimize damage from coastal flooding. Policy 1.8 reduces stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. Policy 2.8 directs the City to continue to monitor beach width and elevations to identify potential erosion problems. Infrastructure Element Policy 4.8 directs the City to develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. Policy 5.1 integrates stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. Policy 5.2 directs the City to naturalize flood channels that enhance flood protection capacity before employing other management solutions. Policy 5.3 directs the City to integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. Policy 5.5 directs the City to maintain, fund, and regularly monitor stormwater infrastructure. Policy 5.8 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate LID techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 7.1 requires the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. Policy 7.2 would minimize soil erosion by ensuring best practices are used in grading and construction. PLAN Hermosa contains implementation actions intended to mitigate erosion and sedimentation impacts. INFRASTRUCTURE -1 incorporates stormwater infrastructure improvements in a comprehensive, long-range infrastructure plan. INFRASTRUCTURE -19 updates program requirements in the City's Storm Water Management and Discharge Control Ordinance and directs the City to regularly monitor results, as well as directs the City to continue to implement the LID Ordinance and monitor its effectiveness, which is also required under the applicable NPDES Permit. INFRASTRUCTURE -21 requires new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street best management practices that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-22 • • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Existing requirements and regulations, as well as PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would reduce the amount of surface water runoff in the planning area through measures such as compliance with the NPDES permit requirements, flood control measures, water conservation measures, and maintenance of pervious surfaces and through implementation of the Enhanced Watershed Management Program. Compliance with these regulations and the minimal amount of new surface runoff that would result from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would minimize the potential for existing drainage patterns to be altered in a manner that could cause increased erosion or sedimentation. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Substantially Alter the Existing Drainage Pattern of the Site or Area so as to Result In On- or Off -Site Flooding? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would minimally alter drainage patterns and the amount of stormwater runoff, which would minimize the potential for on- and off-site flooding. Continued implementation and enforcement of existing grading, erosion, and flood control regulations, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance, Green Street Policy, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a less than significant impact. Impact 4.8-3 described the potential for PLAN Hermosa to alter drainage systems or patterns. The area's drainage systems and patterns are not anticipated to be substantially altered due to the existing built -out conditions of the city, plans for new development to focus on infill locations, and programs to require on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Because drainage patterns would be minimally affected and the rate and amount of stormwater would be controlled through implementation of LID requirements (see Impact 4.8-1), surface runoff would not substantially add to an increased risk of flooding. Existing requirements and regulations, as well as PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions described in Impact 4.8-3, would reduce the amount of surface water runoff through measures such as compliance with the NPDES permit requirements, flood control measures, LID development standards, retention and infiltration -focused infrastructure improvements, water conservation measures, and maintenance of pervious surfaces. Compliance with these regulations and the minimal amount of new surface runoff that would result from implementation of PLAN Hermosa would minimize the potential for existing drainage patterns to be altered in a manner that could cause increased on- or off-site flooding. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Create or Contribute Runoff Water Exceeding the Capacity of Existing or Planned Stormwater Drainage Systems or Providing Substantial Additional Sources of Polluted Runoff? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would generate stormwater runoff that would be discharged to the storm drain system and would contain urban pollutants. Continued implementation and enforcement of existing grading and erosion regulations, in combination with the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, the Beach Cities EWMP, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, would result in a less than significant impact. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-23 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Given the built -out nature of the planning area, most new development that would occur as the result of PLAN Hermosa would be redevelopment. As a conservative estimate, assuming 33 acres of vacant land are entirely converted to urban uses with impervious surfaces, the increase in newly developed land would be approximately 5 percent. With a small change in impervious surface, the rate and amount of stormwater runoff generated would not be expected to increase to levels that would affect the capacity of storm drainage systems (see Impact 4.13.6-3 in Section 4.13, Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities, of this EIR). The potential for storm drainage capacity impacts would be further reduced through implementation of several PLAN Hermosa policies. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 7.1 would require the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low - intensity paved areas. Infrastructure Element Policy 4.8 would develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. Policy 5.1 would integrate stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. Policy 5.3 would integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. Policy 5.4 would encourage community behavior changes to reduce urban runoff pollution. Policy 5.5 would maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the city's stormwater infrastructure. Policy 5.6 would ensure that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other city infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. Policy 5.7 would strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 NPDES Permit requirements. Policy 5.8 would require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Construction activities may result from development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa and generate the potential for increased pollutants in runoff or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff, as described in Impact 4.8-1. However, adherence to the regulatory requirements described in Impact 4.8-1 would serve to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff and pollutants generated during construction. Specifically, projects would be required to comply with NPDES requirements, prepare a stormwater pollution prevention plan, and comply with Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 8.44.090. Mandatory compliance with these requirements would control construction activities and minimize, to the greatest extent practicable, the degradation of water quality. These requirements would include best management practices appropriate to reduce the overall discharge volume and amount of pollutants in stormwater. There would not be a substantial increase in pollutants in stormwater runoff as a result of PLAN Hermosa. This would be primarily accomplished through the City's LID Ordinance. The LID Ordinance requires new development and redevelopment projects to control pollutants and runoff volume from the project site by minimizing the impervious surface area through effective design and use of water -permeable surfaces to the extent technically feasible on not less than 50 percent of exterior surface areas, excluding building footprints, and controlling runoff through infiltration, bioretention, and/or rainfall harvest and use. A stormwater management plan (SWMP) that includes necessary best management practices to control pollution would be required for each project. Prior to issuing a discretionary permit, the City must ensure the project plans include LID features and other design requirements, and prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy, the City must verify that the features have been constructed. The LID Ordinance also requires projects to have an operation and maintenance plan. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions listed in Impact 4.8-1 above, which also address water quality, would further reduce impacts on stormwater runoff. On a citywide scale, the City would continue to PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-24 • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY implement its Green Street Policy and further its efforts toward implementing the improvements proposed in the Beach Cities EWMP, which would help reduce pollutant loads in stormwater. Because only small areas of new impervious surface would result from development associated with implementation of the plan, the increased volumes or rates of discharge and associated pollutants in runoff would be minimal. Additionally, adherence to applicable water quality regulations and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would minimize the potential to create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Substantially Degrade Water Quality? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would not result in substantial degradation of water quality with continued implementation of Municipal Code Chapter 8.44 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations), which includes the City's Low -Impact Design (LID) Ordinance (Municipal Code Section 8.44.095), the City's Green Street Policy, existing grading and erosion regulations (Municipal Code Section 8.44.090 and NPDES Construction General Permit SWPPP requirements), participation in the Beach Cities EWMP, and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions. This would be a less than significant impact. Impacts 4.8-1, 4.8-3, and 4.8-5 analyze in detail the potential water quality impacts and applicable permits, regulations, plans, and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that would ensure no significant adverse water quality impacts would occur as a result of the plan. No additional water quality impacts beyond those described in Impacts 4.8-1, 4.8-3, and 4.8-5 have been identified. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-7 Would PLAN Hermosa Place Housing Within a 100 -Year Flood Hazard Area? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa includes policies and implementation actions to decrease exposure to and impacts from flood hazards throughout the city. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Though most surface water is controlled by storm drainage infrastructure in the city, flooding may occur in Hermosa Beach as a result of excessive precipitation, storm runoff, coastal flooding, or inadequate, undersized, or unmaintained storm drainage infrastructure. As identified in Figure 4.8-2, the delineated 100 -year flood hazard area is limited to the beach on the city's western edge and does not include any housing, nor does PLAN Hermosa allow housing to be placed on the beach. Flooding can occur outside of delineated flood zones, typically as the result of combined heavy precipitation, storm surge, and high tide events. PLAN Hermosa does not allow development, residential or otherwise, in an existing 100 -year flood hazard area. However, PLAN Hermosa does include numerous policies and implementation actions to mitigate the impacts of flooding, in addition to the stormwater management policies and programs mentioned above. Public Safety Element Policy 1.1 requires new buildings and infrastructure to evaluate seismic, fire, flood, and City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-25 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY coastal storm hazard risks and comply with California Building Code standards to minimize risk. Policy 1.5 directs the City to use natural interventions, green infrastructure, and infiltration systems to minimize damage from coastal flooding. Policy 1.7 encourages existing structures, critical facilities, and infrastructure to reduce flood vulnerability. Policy 2.8 directs the City to continue to monitor beach width and elevations to identify potential erosion problems. Policy 6.3 directs the City to invest in public and critical facilities to make them more resilient to the potential impacts of natural disasters. Because Hermosa Beach is a built -out community and PLAN Hermosa land use policies would not place areas of residential development in flood hazard areas, and because all future development would be required to comply with flood hazard development regulations and requirements, the plan would not create risk due to the placement of housing in flood hazard areas. Additionally, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would minimize flooding potential and flood hazards throughout the city. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-8 Would PLAN Hermosa Place Within a 100 -Year Flood Hazard Area Structures That Would Impede or Redirect Flood Flows? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would allow development or expansion of facilities to support coastal access in the 100 - year flood hazard area. However, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and adherence to development regulations specific to flood hazard areas would result in a less than significant impact. As identified in Figure 4.8-2, the delineated 100 -year flood hazard area is limited to the beach on the city's western edge. Existing development in this area is limited to coastal recreational buildings and enhancements including the pier, restrooms, and playgrounds. Policies and implementation actions in PLAN Hermosa could lead to the development of new or enhanced coastal facilities, including accessible walkways onto the beach. As noted in the Land Use + Design Element, infrastructure or amenities such as restrooms, playgrounds, and stormwater drainages are allowed, provided they do not create visual obstructions or impede recreational activities. New or enhanced infrastructure or amenities could impede or redirect flood flows. However, the uses allowed by PLAN Hermosa are consistent with existing land uses and are not expected to significantly increase the number or size of structures in the 100 -year flood hazard area. Because PLAN Hermosa would continue existing land use patterns and any new development would be required to comply with flood hazard development regulations and requirements, implementation of the plan would not substantially redirect or impede flood flows due to placement of structures in flood hazard areas. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would minimize flooding potential and flood hazards. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-26 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY IMPACT 4.8-9 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose People or Structures to a Significant Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not allow habitable development in locations currently designated as 100 -year flood hazard areas, which generally precludes foss, injury, or death from flooding, including flooding from the failure of a dam or levee. However, sea level rise is more likely than not to expand the area exposed to flooding conditions in the future. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that prepare the city for sea level rise and adherence to development regulations specific to flood hazard areas would result in a less than significant impact. As described in Impact 4.8-7, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not allow habitable development in flood hazard areas, although, as previously mentioned, coastal recreational supportive structures would continue to be allowed in the 100 -year flood hazard area, which could expose people or structures to the risk of Toss, injury, or death involving flooding. However, these potential impacts were found to be less than significant. Because PLAN Hermosa continues existing land use allowances, any new development would be required to comply with applicable regulations and building standards in flood hazard areas. Flooding hazards and risks are also minimized through PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, as previously described in Impact 4.8-7. Thus, increased exposure to flooding hazards that might result in significant loss, injury, or death would be minimal with implementation of the plan. The analysis above focuses on flood exposure under current conditions. However, sea level rise will likely expand the area of the city exposed to flooding through the planning horizon and beyond. In Hermosa Beach, the area where a 100 -year flood could cause inundation is projected to increase by about 300 percent under a scenario of 55 inches of sea level rise (from 0.034 square miles at present to 0.1 square miles). The projected flood zone extends beyond the sandy beach into developed portions of the Coastal Zone (see PLAN Hermosa Figure 6.4). PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions could result in development that is in a 100 -year flood zone under likely future climate conditions, which means the risk of loss, injury, or death is possible in expanded areas of the city. However, in addition to general flood mitigation regulations, development standards, policies, and implementation actions mentioned in Impacts 4.8-7 and 4.8-8, PLAN Hermosa contains policies and implementation actions to assess, prepare for, and respond to the risk of Toss, injury, or death involving flooding related to sea level rise. Public Safety Element Policy 2.1 directs the City to integrate resilience to anticipated sea level rise impacts into project designs when repairing and replacing aging infrastructure. Policy 2.2 requires new development and redevelopment projects to consider and mitigate relevant sea level rise impacts. Policy 2.3 directs the City to enhance local understanding of sea level rise and keep decision -makers and the community aware of potential impacts based on best available science. Policy 2.4 directs the City to provide public information describing new flooding risks under a 55 - inch sea level rise scenario in areas previously not affected by flooding. Policy 2.5 directs the City to maintain current beach widths under changing sea level conditions. Policy 2.6 directs the City to consider the combined effects of sea level rise when evaluating potential tsunami and storm surge impacts. Policy 2.7 directs the City to support regional approaches to sediment management, beach replenishment, and adaptive shoreline protection to allow Hermosa Beach to voice its needs, allow for coordination with neighboring jurisdictions, and identify creative finance mechanisms to continue the replenishment program. Policy 2.8 directs the City to continue to monitor beach width and elevations to identify potential erosion problems. Implementation action SAFETY -13 directs the City to amend the Municipal Code to require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of expanded flood risk in property purchases/turnovers. SAFETY -11 directs the City to prepare for changing shoreline conditions by establishing and applying specific development review listed in the implementation action. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-27 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Hermosa Beach is not in a location that could be subject to flood hazards resulting from the structural failure of a levee or dam and therefore has no risk of Toss, injury, or death involving flooding as a result of such a structure. Adherence to applicable development requirements and regulations in flood hazard areas and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies related to stormwater management, flood hazard mitigation, and sea level rise would reduce the potential for loss, injury, or death from flooding. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-10 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose People or Structures to Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects that would be in locations that may be subject to inundation by tsunami or mudflow. However, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would result in a less than significant impact. Some areas of California are exposed to seismically induced waves known as seiches that can overtop dams and cause flooding. Because the city does not contain any surface waters, other than the Pacific Ocean, Hermosa Beach would not be subject to inundation from a seiche. Coastal areas of California are subject to seismically induced ocean waves known as tsunamis. Figure 4.8-3 displays the tsunami inundation zones in the city. PLAN Hermosa would continue to provide for development in locations that may be subject to inundation by tsunami. As mentioned in Impacts 4.8-7, 4.8-8, and 4.8-9, development that would occur as the result of PLAN Hermosa would be subject to building and development standards intended to mitigate general flood hazards. Also mentioned above, PLAN Hermosa includes numerous policies and implementation actions that would reduce or mitigate flood impacts. In addition, PLAN Hermosa includes policies and actions related to tsunamis. Public Safety Element Policy 1.3 directs the City to utilize the Los Angeles County Tsunami Playbook in the evaluation of and response to tsunami risk. Policy 2.6 directs the City to consider the combined effects of sea level rise when evaluating potential tsunami and storm surge impacts. Implementation action SAFETY -5 directs the City to evaluate tsunami preparation, evacuation, and response policies/practices to reflect current inundation maps and design standards and include updated information in the periodically updated hazard mitigation plan. A mudflow can develop when water accumulates in the ground during periods of heavy rainfall and results in a flowing river of mud, rock, and other materials. There is no known risk of mudflow in Hermosa Beach. PLAN Hermosa would continue to allow development in tsunami inundation zones, which could lead to inundation. Because PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions provide a comprehensive framework for addressing inundation, including preparation for and response to a tsunami, and because all future development would be required to comply with flood hazard development regulations and requirements, the risk of inundation above baseline conditions as a result of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa is Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-28 • • • • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES Water quality and hydrology are not confined by jurisdictional boundaries; rather, they are dependent on the regional watershed and hydrologic conditions in surrounding areas. As described in the Environmental Setting subsection, the planning area is located in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed and the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain, Los Angeles Basin. When analyzing cumulative impacts to water quality and hydrology, it is necessary to consider upstream and downstream areas and water bodies that could influence or be influenced by actions within the planning area. Thus, the watershed and the subbasin are the general areas of influence used in analysis of cumulative impacts for this topic. IMPACT 4.8-11 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Water Quality, Water Quality Standards, or Waste Discharge Requirements? Anticipated regional growth in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed could increase the amount of impervious surface in the watershed, thereby potentially increasing the total volume, peak discharge rate of stormwater runoff, and associated pollutants. Additionally, construction activities resulting from regional growth could increase the amount of sediments and pollutants in stormwater runoff and could lead to water quality degradation. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because it would result in minimal changes in stormwater flows and pollutants with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Planned development or redevelopment under PLAN Hermosa, in addition to other cumulative development in the watershed, could result in an increase in the amount of impervious surfaces and increased runoff. Surface water runoff could carry increased levels of sediment and urban contaminants from both construction and long-term operation that could affect receiving water quality in Santa Monica Bay and other receiving water bodies. Additionally, construction and operational activities in the region could result in impacts to water quality, water quality standards, and waste discharge requirements. Development in all jurisdictions whose stormwater flows to Santa Monica Bay is subject to policies and regulations to improve water quality and minimize potential to degrade water quality, as described in the Regulatory Setting subsection above. Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and permitting processes, such as the Clean Water Act, NPDES permitting requirements, and the Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act, apply to all development within the watershed. Various programs and requirements are specific to the maintenance and improvement of regional water quality, including the Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan, the NPDES General Permits administered by the SWRCB and the Los Angeles RWQCB, and the Los Angeles County Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan. These regulations apply to all development that would take place in the city as well as in neighboring jurisdictions. Additionally, the Cities of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Torrance, together with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, collectively referred to as the Beach Cities WMG, agreed to collaborate on the development of an Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP) for the Santa Monica Bay and Dominguez Channel Watershed areas within their jurisdictions (referred to as the Beach Cities EWMP Area). The Beach Cities EWMP summarizes watershed -specific water quality priorities identified by the Beach Cities WMG; outlines the program plan, including specific strategies, control measures, and best management practices to achieve water quality targets; and describes the quantitative analysis completed to City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-29 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY support target achievement and permit compliance. The approach described in the EWMP, in combination with the required LID -based best management practices that each participating city must impose on development, is anticipated to protect and potentially improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay from pollutants in stormwater runoff. Because development projects whose stormwater would flow into Santa Monica Bay must comply with federal, state, and local regulations and requirements, the cumulative potential for increased pollutants or runoff would be minimized. Additionally, implementation of PLAN Hermosa is anticipated to result in minimal, and potentially positive, effects to water quality or wastewater discharge, as described in Impacts 4.8-1, 4.8-5, and 4.8-6. Policies and implementation actions in the plan have been developed to improve overall water quality in Hermosa Beach. For these reasons, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative water quality violations or waste discharge requirements would not be considerable, and the impact is considered less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-12 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects on Groundwater Supply and Recharge? Anticipated regional growth overlying the West Coast subbasin of the Coastal Plain, Los Angeles Basin, could increase the amount of impervious surface, thereby potentially decreasing the area available for groundwater recharge. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because new areas of impervious surface as a result of implementing PLAN Hermosa would be minimal, and new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure improvements would be required to include more permeable surfaces than under baseline conditions. With implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations, this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Per the California Department of Water Resources, natural replenishment of the West Coast Basin's groundwater supply is largely limited to underflow from the Central Basin through and over the Newport -Inglewood fault zone. Water spread in the Central Basin percolates into aquifers there, and eventually some crosses the Newport -Inglewood fault to supplement the groundwater supply in the West Coast Basin. The West Coast Basin covers approximately 140 square miles and is bounded on the north by the Baldwin Hills and the Ballona Escarpment (a bluff just south of the Ballona Creek), on the east by the Newport -Inglewood fault zone, to the south by San Pedro Bay and the Palos Verdes Hills, and to the west by Santa Monica Bay. Aquifers in the West Coast Basin are generally confined and receive the majority of their natural recharge from adjacent groundwater basins or from the Pacific Ocean (seawater intrusion) (WRD 2005). As such, groundwater recharge opportunities are minimal in Hermosa Beach and surrounding jurisdictions. Proposed development or redevelopment under PLAN Hermosa, in addition to other cumulative development in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, could increase the amount of impervious surfaces and result in less pervious surface to serve as groundwater recharge areas. Nonetheless, most of the watershed is highly urbanized. Development that would take place under PLAN Hermosa would generally be small and located on infill sites, similar to the jurisdictions surrounding the city. As such, future development in the watershed would likely be in existing urbanized areas, with only small areas of infringement into currently undeveloped lands. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-30 • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY As described under Impact 4.8-2, implementation of PLAN Hermosa is not anticipated to create substantial new areas of impervious surfaces, as the city is mostly built out. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions described in the discussion of Impact 4.8-2 would minimize the amount of new impervious surface in the planning area, direct the use of more natural pervious drainage features to absorb stormwater, and implement water conservation measures to reduce water consumption. For these reasons, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative groundwater recharge or supply impacts would not be considerable. The impact is considered less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-13 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Alteration of Stormwater Drainage Systems and Patterns Resulting in Erosion and Flooding? Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed could increase the amount of impervious surface in the watershed, thereby potentially increasing the total volume and peak discharge rate of stormwater runoff and the potential for erosion and sedimentation. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable because the planning area is generally built out, which would result in minimal changes in drainage patterns and therefore erosion potential with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, the City's LID Ordinance and Green Street Policy, participation in regional plans such as the Beach Cities EWMP, and compliance with existing regulations. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. As described in Impact 4.8-1, Hermosa Beach is generally built out with urban land uses. The Santa Monica Bay Watershed area is generally built out and mirrors Hermosa Beach in terms of available developable land. Drainages are formalized in the watershed via culverts, stormwater drains, gutters, channels, etc. Additionally, there is a countywide drainage system, which, due to the built - out nature of the county and the watershed area, would not be greatly modified by new development. Because of the developed nature of the area, new development would be mainly infill and would be already served by adequate drainage facilities. Drainage modifications would include increased capacity and new connections if needed. Cumulative development in the Santa Monica Bay Watershed would be subject to regulatory requirements designed to minimize potential erosion and flooding that may result during construction and operational conditions. Compliance with best management practices as part of the NPDES permit process, SWPPP and SWMP requirements (as applicable), any site-specific waste discharge requirements issued by the Los Angeles RWQCB, and compliance with the Los Angeles Region Basin Plan would minimize cumulative stormwater drainage effects. These requirements are applicable to all jurisdictions in the watershed. Additionally, as discussed above, the Beach Cities Watershed Management Group has an adopted and approved Enhanced Watershed Management Program that would further reduce runoff, thus minimizing the possibility of erosion and flooding from modification of drainage patterns. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce the amount of surface water runoff through measures such as compliance with NPDES permit requirements, flood control measures, and water conservation measures. These measures would minimize the potential for erosion and flooding from modification of drainage patterns. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative impacts related to alteration of stormwater drainage that could result in increased erosion or flooding would not be considerable. The impact is less than cumulatively considerable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-31 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.8-14 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Exposure of People or Structures to a Significant Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding? Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, in combination with PLAN Hermosa, could result in development in locations designated as 100 - year flood hazard areas, which could result in Toss, injury, or death from flooding, including flooding from the failure of a dam or levee. Impacts would be site- specific and would generally not combine to create a cumulative impact. However, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and compliance with existing regulations, PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. Flooding may occur throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed when streams and channels overflow as a result of excessive precipitation, storm runoff, or inadequate, undersized, or unmaintained storm drainage infrastructure. As described previously, FEMA mapping delineates areas located in flood hazard zones. New development in the watershed could potentially result in housing located within 100 -year flood hazard areas, or new or redeveloped housing may continue to be allowed in flood hazard areas in other jurisdictions. Future development throughout the watershed could place structures that would impede or redirect flood flows within a 100 -year flood hazard area. Generally, development is not possible in a major flood control channel; however, development could occur in other locations designated as 100 -year flood hazard areas that may carry surface water flows during flood conditions. However, all future projects, regardless of jurisdiction, would be required to comply with regulatory requirements related to floodplain development. FEMA has established the design standard for flood protection in areas covered by Flood Insurance Rate Maps, with the minimum level of flood protection for new development determined to be within a 100 -year flood hazard area. The California Building Code also contains requirements for constructing structures in flood hazard zones. Required compliance with these regulations and building codes would minimize risk due to the placement of housing in flood hazard zones, thereby reducing the potential cumulative impact. Additionally, as described under Impact 4.8-7, PLAN Hermosa does not allow residential development in an existing 100 -year flood hazard area. Multiple PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would minimize flooding potential and reduce hazards associated with flooding, and future development would be required to comply with flood hazard development regulations and requirements. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative impacts related to the placement of housing in flood hazard areas would not be considerable, and the impact would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required IMPACT 4.8-15 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Impacts Related to Inundation by Selche, Tsunami, or Mudflow? Anticipated regional growth throughout the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, in combination with PLAN Hermosa, could result in development in locations that may be subject to inundation by tsunami or mudflow. Impacts would be site-specific. PLAN Hermosa would not place new land uses in locations that could be subject to inundation by a tsunami, but existing uses could be at risk of tsunami. However, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and compliance with existing PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-32 • 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY regulations, PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. Impact 4.8-10 discusses the potential for a seismically induced wave, known as a seiche, that can overtop a dam and cause flooding. Coastal areas of California are subject to seismically induced ocean waves known as tsunamis. In the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, all coastal communities could be exposed to a tsunami. Mudflows can develop when water accumulates in the ground during periods of heavy rainfall and results in a flowing river of mud, rock, and other materials. The risk of mudflow inundation is a relatively site-specific impact and is generally dependent on the immediate development in the area and on the specific hillside. Regional growth anticipated in the watershed could increase inundation risk associated with seiches, tsunamis, and mudflows. However, Hermosa Beach is not located adjacent to any surface water bodies that could experience a seiche and has no known mudslide hazards. As described above, Hermosa Beach is exposed to tsunamis, but the land use pattern promoted by PLAN Hermosa would not place new land uses in locations that could be subject to inundation by a tsunami. PLAN Hermosa includes policies and implementation actions to mitigate, prepare for, and respond to tsunami - related inundation. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative inundation impacts from seiches, tsunamis, and mudflows would not be considerable, and the impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. 4.8.5 REFERENCES Beach Cities Watershed Management Group. 2016. Enhanced Watershed Management Program for the Beach Cities Watershed Management Area (Santa Monica Bay and Dominguez Channel Watersheds). Submitted to Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/losangeles/water issues/programs/stormwater/municipal/wat ershed_management/beach_cities/BeachCities_EWMP_February2016.pdf. City of Hermosa Beach. 2011. City of Hermosa Beach Sanitary Sewer Master Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.asax?documentid=1765. . 2017. City of Hermosa Beach 2017 Draft Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. http://www.hermosabch.ora/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=9252 . 2017. PLAN Hermosa. DWR (California Department of Water Resources). 1961. Planned Utilization of the Ground Water Basins of the Coastal Plain of Los Angeles County. Bulletin No. 104. 1999. Watermaster Service in the West Coast Basin, Los Angeles County, July 1, 1998 June 30, 1999. 2004. "Coastal Plain of Los Angeles County Groundwater Basin West Coast Subbasin." California's Groundwater Bulletin 118. Accessed January 2014. http://www.water.ca.gov/pubs/groundwater/bulletin_118/basindescriptions/4-11.03.pdf. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). 2008. Flood Insurance Map: Los Angeles County California and Incorporated Areas. Map number 06037C1907F. Accessed January 2014. https://msc.fema.gov/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet /MapSearchResult?storeld=10001 &catalogld=10001 &langld=- 1 &panellDs=06037C1907F$&Type=pbp&nonprinted=&unmapped. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.8-33 4.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Grifman, P. M., J. F. Hart, J. Ladwig, A. G. Newton Mann, and M. Schulhof. 2013. Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Study for the City of Los Angeles. USCSG-TR-05-2013. Accessed February 2014. https://www.usc.edu/org/seagrant/research/SeaLevelRise_docs/hires_pdfs/City%20of%2 OLA%20SLR%20Vulnerability%20Study%20FINAL%20Summary%20Report%200nline%20Hype rlinks.pdf. Los Angeles RWQCB (Regional Water Quality Control Board). 1995. Water Quality Control Plan, Los Angeles Region. Accessed February 2014. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwgcb4/water issues/programs/basin_plan/electronics _documents/bp 1 _introduction.pdf. 2002a. Attachment A to Resolution No. 02-004: Proposed Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan - Los Angeles Region to Incorporate the Santa Monica Bay Beaches Bacteria TMDL. Accessed February 2014. http://63.199.216.6/larwqcb_new/bpa/docs/2002- 004/2002-004_R B_B P A . p d f. 2002b. Attachment A to Resolution No. 2002-022: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan - Los Angeles Region to Incorporate Implementation Provisions for the Region's Bacteria Objectives and to Incorporate the Santa Monica Bay Beaches Wet - Weather Bacteria TMDL. Accessed February 2014. htt p://63.199.216.6/larwgcb_new/bpa/docs/2002-022/2002-022_R B_B PA.pdf. 2012. MS4 Discharges within the Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles County. http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/losangeles/water issues/programs/stormwater/municipal/la_ ms4/2012/Order%20R4-2012-0175%20-%20A%20Fin a I%200rder%20revised.pdf. NRC (National Research Council). 2012. Sea -Level Rise for the Coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington: Past, Present, and Future. Accessed January 2014. www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13389. SWRCB (State Water Resources Control Board). 2012. California Ocean Plan. http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/waterissues/programs/ocean/docs/cop2012.pdf. WRD (Water Replenishment District of Southern California). 2005. Technical Bulletin Volume 4, Summer 2005. Accessed August 2016. http://www.wrd.org/engineering/introduction- groundwater-basins-los-angeles.php. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.8-34 • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • • • 0 • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 4.9.1 INTRODUCTION This section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to land use and planning from implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes a review of PLAN Hermosa and existing land use regulations, like the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Comprehensive Plan and Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) . NOP Comments: In response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP), one comment from SCAG indicated that PLAN Hermosa is regionally significant and should address consistency with the SCAG 2012-2035 RTP/SCS. The consistency comparison with the SCAG 2012-2035 RTP/SCS is included in this resource section. Reference Information: Information for this chapter is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this EIR as Appendix C. 4.9.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-12 describes the existing land use conditions in Hermosa Beach, including regulations, and key issues in the inland and Coastal Zone areas. Key findings related to the environmental setting are presented below. Hermosa Beach is located in southwest Los Angeles County and encompasses 1.4 square miles, or 979 acres, with 1.8 miles of coastline along Santa Monica Bay. Manhattan Beach borders Hermosa Beach to the north and northeast, and Redondo Beach is located to the south and east. Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) runs north/south through the entirety of Hermosa Beach. Approximately half of the city, 43 percent, lies within the Coastal Zone. The Coastal Zone boundary is defined by the California Coastal Act. The Coastal Zone boundary spans the entire length of the city from north to south and extends from the mean high tide line inland to roughly Ardmore Avenue with two exclusions—the area from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive between Longfellow Avenue and 31st Place; and the area east of Park Avenue or Loma Drive between 25th Street and 16th Street. See Figure 3.0-4 (Hermosa Beach Coastal Zone). EXISTING GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATIONS The Land Use Element of the current Hermosa Beach General Plan establishes the distribution of land uses, intensity of commercial and other development, and provision of other public facilities. In addition to the land use designations and map, the Land Use Element establishes and describes the goals, policies, and programs necessary to provide sufficient land for community needs while preserving the environment and quality of life for Hermosa Beach residents. The General Plan Land Use designations are identified for each parcel in Figure 3.0-4 (Hermosa Beach General Plan Designations). Additionally, Table 4.9-1 (Hermosa Beach General Plan Land Use Designations) identifies the number of assessor's parcels and the area of land within each land use designation. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-1 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING TABLE 4.9-1 HERMOSA BEACH GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS General Plan Land Use Designation Citywide Inland (Excluding Coastal Zone) Coastal Zone Number of Parcels Area (acres) Number of Parcels Area (acres) Number of Parcels Area (acres) Residential Land Uses LD Low Density Residential 2,615 232.2 2,190 198.9 425 33.3 MD Medium Density Residential 1,381 118.3 500 63.5 881 54.8 HD High Density Residential 1,086 97.9 62 17.9 1,024 80.0 MHP Mobile Home Park 2 4.2 0 0.0 2 4.2 Commercial and Industrial Land Uses NC Neighborhood Commercial 38 2.9 0 0.0 38 2.9 GC General Commercial 278 48.2 144 31.4 134 16.8 CC Commercial Corridor 132 30.4 132 30.4 0 0.0 IND Industrial 38 6.8 0 0.0 38 6.8 Institutional and Other Uses OS Open Space 50 66.8 35 34.2 15 32.6 CR Commercial Recreation 10 0.9 0 0.0 10 0.9 SPA Specific Plan Area 10 1.1 10 1.1 0 0.0 Beach 11 63.1 0 0 11 63.1 Total 5,651 672.8 3,073 377.4 2,578 295.4 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014. Parcels = Assessor's Parcels. The current development pattern in the city is one of single-family and multi -family residential, with commercial and industrial uses, as shown in Table 4.9-2 (Hermosa Beach Existing Land Uses) and described below. • Single -Family Residential: Single-family land uses are found throughout the city, with some blocks and neighborhoods in the northeast, east, and southeast areas of Hermosa Beach exclusively or predominantly filled with single-family uses. • Multi -Family Residential: Multi -family housing units are predominantly found in the southwest area of Hermosa Beach, with other multi -family housing found in the northwest and southeast portions of the city. • Mobile Homes: There are two mobile home areas: one located north of Pier Avenue, between Loma Drive and Valley Drive, and the other along 10th Street between Ardmore Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway. • Mixed Residential and Commercial: These uses are located primarily in commercial districts. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-2 • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • Commercial Uses: Commercial uses include retail stores or shopping centers, lodging accommodations, restaurants, professional office space, auto -related uses, entertainment uses, and personal services (salons, art studios, dry cleaning, photocopying services, fitness studios, etc.). Commercial uses in Hermosa Beach are primarily focused along the city's major street corridors: Pacific Coast Highway, Pier Avenue, Hermosa Avenue, Aviation Boulevard, and Artesia Boulevard or within neighborhood commercial areas along Hermosa Avenue and Manhattan Avenue and elsewhere throughout the city. • Industrial Uses: Light industrial or manufacturing uses are generally located in a 4 -acre industrial area near Cypress Avenue and include light manufacturing, warehouses, construction supply, a surfboard manufacturer, auto shops, and air conditioning and heating manufacturing uses. One other industrial use parcel is located on Valley Drive, adjacent to Hermosa Valley School, occupied by a telecommunications company. • Institutional and Other Uses: Institutional land uses include schools, government-owned facilities, parks, the beach and open space, and essential operations areas such as parking, utility buildings, the City maintenance yard and other facilities, or utility easements. TABLE 4.9-2 HERMOSA BEACH EXISTING LAND USES Use Number of Parcels Total Acres Percentage of Land Area Residential Uses Single -Family 3,261 263.0 39.1% Multi -Family 1,898 186.3 27.6% Mobile Homes 3 4.6 0.7% Mixed Residential and Commercial 17 1.5 0.2% Residential Subtotal 5,179 455.4 67.6% Commercial and Light Industrial Uses Commercial and Services 274 57.6 8.5% General Office 40 7.9 1.1% Industrial 26 4.1 0.6% Mixed Commercial and Industrial 1 0.2 <0.1% Commercial and Industrial Subtotal 341 69.8 10.2% Institutional and Other Uses City Facilities 46 19.6 2.9% Education 9 16.7 2.4% Open Space and Recreation 52 104.5 15.5% Transportation, Communication, and Utilities 8 4.2 0.6% Vacant 33 2.6 0.4% Institutional and Other Subtotal 148 147.6 21.8% Total 5,668 672.8 100% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 4.9.3 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK State, regional, and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to land use and planning, including general plans, specific plans, and zoning ordinances. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing aspects of land use planning that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for land use is discussed in Appendix C-12. Key regulations used to reduce environmental impacts are summarized below. STATE • Planning Law and Guidelines: California planning law requires cities and counties to prepare and adopt a "comprehensive, long-range general plan" to guide development (Government Code Section 65300). State law also specifies the content of general plans. Current law requires seven mandated elements: land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. • California Coastal Act of 1976: The California Coastal Act of 1976 and the California Coastal Commission, the State's landmark coastal protection law and planning agency, were established by voter initiative in 1972 to plan for and regulate new development and to protect public access to and along the shoreline. The Coastal Act considers scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas as a protected resource of public importance. REGIONAL • Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG): On April 4, 2012, SCAG adopted the 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy: Towards a Sustainable Future (RTP/SCS). SCAG has placed a greater emphasis than ever on sustainability and integrated planning in the 2012-2035 RTP/SCS, and its vision encompasses three principles that collectively work as the key to the region's future: mobility, economy, and sustainability. The 2012-2035 RTP/SCS includes a strong commitment to reduce emissions from transportation sources to comply with Senate Bill (SB) 375,1 improve public health, and meet the national ambient air quality standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. The 2012-2035 RTP/SCS provides a blueprint for improving quality of life for residents by providing more choices for where they will live, work, and play and how they will move around (SCAG 2012). • South Coast Air Quality Management District Air Quality Management Plan: The purpose of the 2012 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) is to establish a comprehensive and integrated program that will bring the South Coast Air Basin into compliance with the federal 24-hour air quality standard for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and to provide an update to commitments toward meeting the federal 8 -hour ozone standards. The plan also includes specific measures to further implement the ozone strategy in the 2007 AQMP to assist attaining the 8 -hour ozone standard by 2023. • Beach Cities Livability Plan: The Beach Cities Livability Plan focuses on how to improve livability and well-being in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Redondo Beach—the "beach cities"—through land use and transportation systems that better support active living. The plan aims to identify and prioritize efforts that will not only improve walking and biking in the beach cities, but when fully implemented will also improve air quality, reduce congestion, and reduce overall travel time by automobiles along corridors. Three strategies focused around adoption of policies, building staff for implementation, and education and outreach for community members (Walkable and Livable Communities Institute 2011). I Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008 (SB 375, Chapter 728, Statutes of 2008). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-4 • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • Sustainable South Bay: An Integrated Land Use and Transportation Strategy: The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) with funding from regional agencies such as SCAG, developed the Sustainable South Bay Land Use and Transportation Strategy, to study how the subregion uses are distributed, what its unique and not so unique characteristics are, and suggest possible land use strategies to promote communities and improve the quality of life. The studies have assessed the needs of the South Bay in terms of infrastructure to support certain land uses, the economics of the area, and how to address smart growth concepts without a robust transit system. The summary and policy document for what was learned is the Sustainable South Bay Land Use and Transportation Strategy (South Bay Cities COG 2009). LOCAL • Hermosa Beach General Plan: The Land Use Element of the adopted Hermosa Beach General Plan establishes the quality and character of the city's built environment by defining the distribution of land uses, the intensity of commercial and other development, and the provision of other public facilities. In addition to the land use designations and map, the Land Use Element establishes and describes the goals, policies, and programs necessary to provide sufficient land for community needs while preserving the environment and quality of life for Hermosa Beach residents. • Local Coastal Program: The City does not have a certified Local Coastal Program, which is required to have both a Coastal Land Use Plan and a Local Implementation Program. The Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan (including a land use map) was adopted by the City and certified by the California Coastal Commission in 1981 and has been amended several times since that time. Primary goals are to (1) preserve parking and increase where feasible, residential, commercial, and general public parking in the Coastal Zone; (2) maintain diversified housing environment and provide policies dealing with the replacement and protection of existing housing; (3) maintain high level of recreational access and facilities; and (4) provide and protect the community of Hermosa Beach as a coastal resource for the people of California. The City has not adopted a Local Implementation Plan to date. • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The Zoning Ordinance (Title 17) implements the General Plan, particularly the Land Use Element. While the General Plan designations are more generalized in nature, the Zoning Ordinance and the zoning districts provide specific controls on land use, density or intensity of development, and development standards to implement the City's goals and policies expressed in the General Plan. Other parts of the Municipal Code, including Title 10, Vehicles and Traffic, Title 12, Street, Sidewalks, and Public Places, Title 15, Buildings and Construction, and Title 16, Subdivisions, are also instrumental in carrying out policy or programs in the General Plan. • City of Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan: The Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan aims to increase sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and addresses water conservation, waste reduction, energy use, transportation, the marine environment, and public involvement. The Sustainability Plan is also Hermosa Beach's response to the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill [AB] 32), SB 375, and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments' Cool Cities program. 4.9.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of the EIR, impacts on land use and planning are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-5 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 1) Physically divide an established community. 2) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. ANALYSIS APPROACH The impact analysis of PLAN Hermosa implementation is based on the allowed 2040 development capacity for the planning area compared to current conditions. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area complies with PLAN Hermosa and the Land Use Designation Map. An analysis of cumulative impacts uses qualitative information for the planning area. The focus of this impact analysis is whether project implementation would result in significant physical environmental impacts associated with land use, or conflict with applicable land use plans, policies, or regulations adopted to avoid or mitigate such impacts. As stated in CEQA Guidelines Section 15358(b), "effects analyzed under CEQA must be related to a physical change." CEQA Guidelines Section 15125(d) states that EIRs shall discuss any inconsistencies between the proposed project and applicable general plans in the setting section of the document. Further, Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines (Environmental Checklist Form) makes explicit the focus on environmental policies and plans, asking if the project would "conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation...adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect." Even a response in the affirmative, however, does not necessarily indicate the project would have a significant effect, unless a physical change would occur. To the extent that physical impacts may result from such conflicts, such physical impacts are analyzed elsewhere in this Draft EIR. As such, specific impacts and issues associated with population and housing, hazards, geology and soils, hydrology and water quality, aesthetics, recreation, cultural resources, biological resources, and public services and utilities are addressed in each technical section, and the reader is referred to other EIR sections for detailed analyses of other relevant environmental effects. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that affect potential land use include the following: Policies Governance Element • 4.1 Regional governance. Play an active role in the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, the Southern California Association of Governments and other regional agencies to protect and promote the interests of the City. • 4.3 Collaboration with adjacent jurisdictions. Maintain strong collaborative relationships with adjacent jurisdictions and work together on projects of mutual interest and concern. • 5.1 Residential and commercial compatibility. Provide a balance between residential and commercial uses and strive to ensure their compatibility. • 5.6 Revitalization incentives. Develop and provide incentives to assist developers in revitalization and rehabilitation of existing structures, uses and properties. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-6 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • 5.7 Visitor and resident balance. Recognize the desire and need to balance visitor -serving and local -serving uses as a key to preserving character and the economic vitality of the community. Land Use + Design Element • 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement or transformation of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. • 1.2 Focused infill potential. Proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. • 1.3 Access to daily activities. Strive to create sustainable development patterns such that the majority of residents are within walking distance to a variety of neighborhood goods and services, such as supermarkets, restaurants, churches, cafes, dry cleaners, laundromats, farmers' markets, banks, personal services, pharmacies and similar uses. • 1.5 Balance resident and visitor needs. Ensure land uses and businesses provide for the needs of residents as well as visitors. • 1.7 Compatibility of uses. Ensure the placement of new uses does not create or exacerbate nuisances between different types of land uses. • 1.8 Respond to unique characteristics. Enhance the unique character and identity of the city's neighborhoods, districts and corridors through land use and design decisions. Allow policies and programs to be focused on each unique character area of the city. • 1.9 Retain commercial land area. Discourage the conversion of commercial land to exclusively residential uses. • 1.10 Transition between uses. Encourage new projects in non-residential areas to employ architectural transitions to adjoining residential properties to ensure compatibility of scale and a sense of privacy for existing residences. Such transitions could include setbacks, gradations and transitions in building height and appropriate landscaping. • 2.2 Variety of types of neighborhoods. Encourage preservation of existing single density neighborhoods within the city and ensure that neighborhood types are dispersed throughout the city. • 2.3 Balanced neighborhoods. Within the allowed densities and housing types, promote a range of housing to accommodate diverse ages and incomes. • 3.1 Unique districts. Encourage the development of local and city-wide districts and centers that address different community needs and market sectors and complement surrounding neighborhoods. • 3.2 Compatibility of districts. Require new development within the city's creative industrial district to be designed for compatibility with surrounding uses to minimize impact or nuisances (such as noise or odor) and cultivate connectivity with each district. • 4.8 Neighborhood buffer. Encourage all commercial property owners bordering residential areas to mitigate impacts and use appropriate landscaping and buffering of residential neighborhoods. • 5.6 Eclectic and diverse architecture. Seek to maintain and enhance neighborhood character through eclectic and diverse architectural styles. • 8.1 Coastal -dependent uses. Prioritize coastal -dependent uses over non-dependent developments near the shoreline, unless future demand for such facilities is already adequately provided for in the area. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-7 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • 8.2 Coastal -related uses. Accommodate coastal -related uses within reasonable proximity to the coastal -dependent uses they support. • 8.3 Land use regulations. Encourage coastal -dependent and coastal -related commercial uses in the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial land use designations. Prioritize such uses in the Recreational Commercial designation. Provide for and prioritize coastal -related industrial uses in the Creative Industrial land use designation. • 8.6 Amenities. Require new higher cost hotel and motel development projects to incorporate non -overnight facilities and amenities as a component of the development that are generally available for passive public use. • 13.1 Restrict health -harming uses. Prohibit new land uses that harm the physical health and well being of the community. • 13.5 Improved livability. Encourage the provision of neighborhood and community amenities and design features to meet the community desire for a very high quality, amenity -rich, livable community. Mobility Element • 1.1 Consider all modes. Require the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. • 2.1 Prioritize public right-of-ways. Prioritize improvements of public right-of-ways that provide heightened levels of safe, comfortable and attractive public spaces for all non - motorized travelers while balancing the needs of efficient vehicular circulation. • 3.1 Repurpose public right-of-ways. Where right-of-way clearance allows, enhance public right-of-ways to improve connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, disabled persons, and public transit stops. • 4.2 Encourage coastal access. Ensure parking facilities and costs of such facilities are not a barrier to beach access by the public. • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. Sustainability + Conservation Element • 1.6 Demonstration and pilot projects. Utilize demonstration and pilot projects as a means to evaluate the greenhouse gas reduction potential and cost effectiveness of projects. • 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. • 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. • 3.7 Regional air quality. When possible, collaborate with other agencies within the region to improve air quality and meet or exceed State and Federal air quality standards through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources, including trucks and passenger vehicles and other large polluters. Parks + Open Space Element • 6.1 Visible access points. Enhance visibility of existing public access points to and along beaches, coastal parks, and trails. • 6.6 Universal access. Provide resources that improve accessibility to the beach for all visitors. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-8 • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING • 6.7 Minimal impact to access. Require new development and substantial redevelopment projects to minimize impacts to existing public access to and along the shoreline. • 7.3 Recreational asset. Consider and treat the beach as a recreational asset and never as a commercial enterprise. • 8.7 Public access. Ensure that special events do not impede public access to the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations and Zoning Ordinance Zoning Districts and review development standards for non -conforming uses. • LAND USE -2. Establish development standards within the Zoning Code to establish any new land use designations and modify existing development standards to articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area and the applicable density/intensity standards. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.9-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Physically Divide an Established Community? PLAN Hermosa includes limited land use changes and other improvements in the city that would allow for an increase in residential and nonresidential square footage. However, because the proposed changes follow established land use patterns, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in a less than significant impact. Hermosa Beach is primarily built out, with a limited inventory of vacant and underutilized land. Land use policies proposed in PLAN Hermosa are based on long-established land use patterns and would allow for incremental intensification through the redevelopment of existing uses (see Table 3.0-2 (PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations) for existing and proposed land use designations). Such incremental growth would reinforce historical patterns while accommodating future economic and residential growth in the city. Under PLAN Hermosa, properties will gradually transition from one use to another, and land uses and intensities will gradually shift to align with the intent of PLAN Hermosa. Figure 4.9-1 (PLAN Hermosa Proposed Changes to Land Use Designations) shows the proposed changes in land use patterns. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-9 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING FIGURE 4.9-1 PLAN HERMOSA PROPOSED CHANGES TO LAND USE DESIGNATIONS / �� --tip 1-,-.. j �—�_ 1 --�- 1 J hermosa beach I _ j'r �,r., A ;�f % � ... change in /------•°"r --%17— e� / cesgna'Jon name / ...,1 41111 �i -r"-- / `, i I 1' I ------,--• • parcel change 3tstst tath St fi e atnst `"'"—.---I, .. mu ` 1 ggi gri _-.Iett, st :rj Mt-- [5th St— IL._Rim' L113 Q • I • city limits j0 1 • .� coastal zone .c L_.__-_ _ _c =-=':_ o____ del sao'1' 2' PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-10 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING PLAN Hermosa establishes an overall development capacity for the city and represents the City's policy for determining appropriate physical development and character. Table 3.0-3 (PLAN Hermosa Residential Development Projections) identifies anticipated residential land use changes compared to existing conditions that would occur between 2015 and 2040 with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, while Table 3.0-4 (PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Development Projections) identifies corresponding changes for nonresidential uses in the city. Table 4.9-3 (Comparison of Land Use Densities and Floor Area Ratios) shows the difference between the existing land use densities and floor area ratios (FAR) and the PLAN Hermosa densities and FARs. TABLE 4.9-3 COMPARISON OF LAND USE DENSITIES AND FLOOR AREA RATIOS Land Use Designation Estimate of Current General Plan Proposed PLAN Hermosa Maximum Minimum Maximum Low Density 13.0 2.0 13.0 Medium Density 25.0 13.1 25.0 High Density 33.0 25.1 33.0 Mobile Home 13.0 2.0 13.0 Neighborhood Commercial 1.0 0.5 1.0 Community Commercial 1.75 0.5 1.25 Recreational Commercial 2.5 1.0 1.75 Gateway Commercial 1.5 1.0 2.0 Service Commercial 1 0.25 0.5 Light Industrial Creative 0.75 0.25 1.0 Public Facilities n/a 0.1 1.0 Open Space n/a 0.0 0.5 City Beach n/a 0.0 0.05 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Based on the allowed density/intensity for each designation, Hermosa Beach could accommodate an additional 300 dwelling units and 630,400 square feet of nonresidential development between 2015 and 2040.2 As described in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, these projections were calculated based on specific trends in the city, including a loss of housing units between 2010 and 2015 and the growing size of households between 2008 and 2012, among other factors. These trends are further described in Appendix A. Overall, this incremental redevelopment represents a relatively modest increase in the number of dwelling units and population for the planning area. Development projections from PLAN Hermosa implementation, as described in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, would result in an increase of approximately 300 dwelling units (3.0 percent growth), a net population increase of approximately 661 (3.3 percent growth), and an increase of 630,400 square feet of nonresidential development (29.9 percent growth) between 2015 and 2040. Policies in both the Land Use + Design Element and the Mobility Element focus on increasing connectivity and maintaining the integrity of the community's character and existing land use designations. For example, Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.1 would maintain the fundamental 2 This information is based on growth forecasts provided in the City's letter Subject: Hermosa Beach Response to SCAG's Integrated Growth Forecast to the Southern California Association of Governments. See Appendix A. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-11 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING pattern of existing land uses and preserve existing residential neighborhoods while providing opportunities for transformation of corridors and districts to improve community identity. Policy 1.8 would promote development that would enhance the unique character and identity of the city's neighborhoods, districts, and corridors through land use and design decisions. Policy 1.9 would discourage the conversion of commercial land into exclusively residential uses, while Policy 2.2 would encourage preservation of existing single -density neighborhoods within the city and ensure that neighborhood types are dispersed throughout Hermosa Beach. Policy 5.6 would maintain and enhance the eclectic and diverse character of neighborhoods. Additionally, implementation action LAND USE -1 requires that the City's Zoning Map be updated to make proposed land use designations and zoning districts consistent. LAND USE -2 establishes zoning districts and development standards to correspond with land use designations and character areas. The Land Use + Design Element and Mobility Element policies and implementation actions listed above guide future development in Hermosa Beach; identify the character -defining features of each neighborhood, corridor, or district; and provide policy guidance that supports the intended character of each area. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa supports and enhances existing land use and circulation patterns and would not divide a community. This impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.9-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation? PLAN Hermosa proposes limited land use changes and other improvements in the city and numerous land use policies to guide future development in Hermosa Beach. These changes would be consistent with existing local and regional planning documents. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa would establish new General Plan land use categories by refining existing categories and establishing new designations. The proposed land use designation and allowed density are shown in Table 3.0-2 (PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations). In addition, PLAN Hermosa identifies numerous land use policies to guide development in the city for the next 25 years by balancing quality of life, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. The policy direction of PLAN Hermosa is generally described in Chapter 3.0, Project Description. Specific policies that affect land use planning are listed in the subsection titled "PLAN Hermosa Policies and Implementation Actions" above. Consistency with applicable regional and local plans is described below. City of Hermosa Beach Zoning Ordinance (Municipal Code Title 17) Title 17 of the City's Municipal Code will be the primary means of implementing PLAN Hermosa. PLAN Hermosa includes policies and programs to amend the Zoning Ordinance to establish zoning districts and development standards to correspond with land use designations and character areas, as well as to better accommodate coastal -dependent and coastal -related uses. With implementation of actions LAND USE -1 and LAND USE -2, the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map will be consistent with PLAN Hermosa land use goals and policies. California Coastal Act PLAN Hermosa has been prepared in accordance with the requirements and intent set forth in California Government Code Section 30603. The Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan (including a land use map) was adopted by the City and certified by the California Coastal Commission in 1981. PLAN Hermosa includes an update to the City's Land Use Plan and Local Implementation PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-12 • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Plan, providing development standards and regulations applicable in the Coastal Zone, and outlining an administrative process for the issuance of coastal development permits. To implement the Coastal Land Use Plan components of PLAN Hermosa, the City will develop a series of implementing ordinances that articulate the intent of the California Coastal Act with consideration of local context and needs. Table 4.9-4 (Coastal Act Consistency) analyzes PLAN Hermosa's consistency with the California Coastal Act. The policies and programs of PLAN Hermosa implement Coastal Act requirements; therefore, the proposed project is consistent with the California Coastal Act. TABLE 4.9-4 COASTAL ACT CONSISTENCY Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy Public Access 30211 Development shall not interfere with the public's right of access to the sea where acquired through use or legislative authorization, including, but not limited to, the use of dry sand and rocky coastal beaches to the first line of terrestrial vegetation. Consistent: Within the city, access to the beach is provided by 22 walk streets that run perpendicular to and connect with Hermosa Avenue. PLAN Hermosa includes a number of policies and implementation actions that focus on public beach access. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 6.6 directs the City to provide resources that improve accessibility to the beach for all visitors. Implementation action LAND USE -11 would require new visitor -serving accommodations in the Coastal Zone to maintain or improve public access to the coast. Implementation action PARKS -18 includes measures that would protect public access to the coast by requiring direct dedication of access easements, and site design to ensure that the coast remains accessible with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. 30212 Public access from the nearest public roadway to the shoreline and along the coast shall be provided in new development projects except where: (1) it is inconsistent with public safety, military security needs, or the protection of fragile coastal resources, (2) adequate access exists nearby, or (3) agriculture would be adversely affected. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa provides for public beach access. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 6.6 directs the City to provide resources that improve accessibility to the beach for all visitors. Implementation action LAND USE -11 would require new visitor -serving accommodations in the Coastal Zone to maintain or improve public access to the coast. Implementation action PARKS -18 includes measures that would protect public access to the coast by requiring direct dedication of access easements, and site design to ensure that the coast remains accessible with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. 30212.5 Wherever appropriate and feasible, public facilities, including parking areas or facilities, shall be distributed throughout an area so as to mitigate against the impacts, social and otherwise, of overcrowding or overuse by the public of any single area. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa promotes adequate parking and a balance use of land adjacent to the shoreline. Mobility Element Policy 4.2 ensures that parking facilities and costs of such facilities are not a barrier to beach access by the public. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 7.3 requires that the City treat the beach as a recreational asset and never as a commercial enterprise. Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.1 strives to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing opportunities for enhancement or transformation of corridors and districts to improve community activity and identity. 30213 Lower cost visitor and recreational facilities shall be protected, encouraged, and, where Consistent: Implementation action LAND USE -11 requires that if a hotel or motel project proposes a certain number City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-13 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy feasible, provided. Developments providing public recreational opportunities are preferred. or percentage of on-site low or mid-range cost units, such units shall remain available as low or mid-range cost units for the life of the project. Recreation 30221 Oceanfront land suitable for recreational use shall be protected for recreational use and development unless present and foreseeable future demand for public or commercial recreational activities that could be accommodated on the property is already adequately provided for in the area. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa promotes public recreational use of oceanfront lands on the public beach. Parks + Open Space Policy 6.9 directs the City to create additional parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities. Policy 7.3 directs the City to consider and treat the beach as a recreational asset and never as a commercial enterprise. Policy 7.5 directs the City to consider devoting certain portions of the beach to different preferred recreational uses while providing access for all users and meeting the recreation needs of visitors and residents. 30222 The use of private lands suitable for visitor- serving commercial recreational facilities designed to enhance public opportunities for coastal recreation shall have priority over private residential, general industrial, or general commercial development, but not over agriculture or coastal -dependent industry. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa land use designations provide for visitor -serving commercial recreational land uses on private property within the Coastal Zone. Land Use + Design Element Policy 8.1 prioritizes coastal -dependent uses over non-dependent developments near the shoreline, unless future demand for such facilities is already adequately provided for in the area. Policy 8.2 accommodates coastal -related uses within reasonable proximity to the coastal -dependent uses they support. Policy 8.3 encourages coastal -dependent and coastal - related commercial uses to be located in the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial land use designations, and prioritizes such uses in the Recreational Commercial designation. The policy also provides for and prioritizes coastal -related industrial uses in the Creative Industrial land use designation. Policy 8.9 directs the City to prioritize use of private lands suitable for visitor -serving commercial recreational facilities that enhance public coastal access over private local -serving residential or commercial development or industrial development, but not over coastal -dependent uses within the commercial core. 30222.5 Oceanfront land that is suitable for coastal dependent aquaculture shall be protected for that use, and proposals for aquaculture facilities located on those sites shall be given priority, except over other coastal dependent developments or uses. Not applicable: No vacant land suitable for aquaculture has been identified within the city. 30223 Upland areas necessary to support coastal recreational uses shall be reserved for such uses, where feasible. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa identifies existing coastal - related uses. Proposed land use designations would not limit those uses. 30224 Increased recreational boating use of coastal waters shall be encouraged, in accordance with this division, by developing dry storage areas, increasing public launching facilities, providing additional berthing space in existing harbors, limiting non -water -dependent land uses that congest access corridors and preclude boating Not applicable: Hermosa Beach does not have boat launching facilities, boat storage, or a harbor/protected area that would accommodate such facilities. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-14 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy support facilities, providing harbors of refuge, and by providing for new boating facilities in natural harbors, new protected water areas, and in areas dredged from dry land. Marine Environment 30230 Marine resources shall be maintained, enhanced, and where feasible, restored. Special protection shall be given to areas and species of special biological or economic significance. Uses of the marine environment shall be carried out in a manner that will sustain the biological productivity of coastal waters and that will maintain healthy populations of all species of marine organisms adequate for long-term commercial, recreational, scientific, and educational purposes. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa includes policies that protect the existing marine environment. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 9.1 calls for the preservation, protection, and improvement of remaining open space areas to the greatest extent possible to improve on existing limited habitats and prevent further extirpation of species. Policy 9.2 requires the consideration of species and habitat impacts and potential improvements when implementing beach maintenance activities. Policy 9.3 was designed to ensure that beaches can function as a quality habitat for permanent and migratory species. Policy 9.4 promotes information sharing and research regarding habitat and wildlife with resource agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure coordinated decision-making and management. Policy 9.5 requires the protection of coastal and marine habitats from impacts from maintenance, construction, recreation, and industrial activities. 30231 The biological productivity and the quality of coastal waters, streams, wetlands, estuaries, and lakes appropriate .to maintain optimum populations of marine organisms and for the protection of human health shall be maintained and, where feasible, restored through, among other means, minimizing adverse effects of waste water discharges and entrainment, controlling runoff, preventing depletion of ground water supplies and substantial interference with surface waterflow, encouraging waste water reclamation, maintaining natural vegetation buffer areas that protect riparian habitats, and minimizing alteration of natural streams. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa includes policies that protect the existing marine environment through the use of water use and water quality protection. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 5.1 calls for the availability of recycled water supply and distribution facilities are available throughout the city. Policy 5.3 requires the update of water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. Policy 7.1 requires the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. Policy 7.2 requires the minimization of soil erosion by ensuring best management practices are used in grading and construction. 30232 Protection against the spillage of crude oil, gas, petroleum products, or hazardous substances shall be provided in relation to any development or transportation of such materials. Effective containment and cleanup facilities and procedures shall be provided for accidental spills that do occur. Consistent: The use and transportation of hazardous materials are governed by federal and state regulations. PLAN Hermosa further requires compliance with policies in the plan that reduce the potential for accidental hazardous materials spills. Public Safety Element Policy 3.2 directs the City to coordinate with allied agencies to prepare for and respond to hazardous materials incidents. Policy 3.3 requires businesses that use, store, or transport hazardous materials to ensure that adequate measures are taken to protect public health and safety. Policy 3.4 directs the City to restrict the siting of new uses involving hazardous materials in the Coastal Zone to coastal -related industrial uses in the Cypress District. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-15 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy 30233 The diking, filling, or dredging of open coastal waters, wetlands, estuaries, and lakes shall be permitted in accordance with other applicable provisions of this division, where there is no feasible less environmentally damaging alternative, and where feasible mitigation measures have been provided to minimize adverse environmental effects, and shall be limited to those identified in Section 30233 Not applicable: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in the diking, filling, or dredging of open coastal waters, wetlands, estuaries, and lakes. [added]. 30234 Facilities serving the commercial fishing and recreational boating industries shall be protected and, where feasible, upgraded. Existing commercial fishing and recreational boating harbor space shall not be reduced unless the demand for those facilities no longer exists or adequate substitute space has been provided. Proposed recreational boating facilities shall, where feasible, be designed and located in such a fashion as not to interfere with the needs of the commercial fishing industry. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa does not include any policies or implementation actions that would reduce existing facilities. 30235 Revetments, breakwaters, groins, harbor channels, seawalls, cliff retaining walls, and other such construction that alters natural shoreline processes shall be permitted when required to serve coastal -dependent uses or to protect existing structures or public beaches in danger from erosion, and when designed to eliminate or mitigate adverse impacts on local shoreline sand supply. Existing marine structures causing water stagnation contributing to pollution problems and fish kills should be phased out or upgraded where feasible. Not applicable: PLAN Hermosa does not include any policies or implementation actions that would limit the use of revetments, breakwaters, groins, harbor channels, seawalls, or cliff retaining walls constructed to protect existing structures. 30236 Channelizations, dams, or other substantial alterations of rivers and streams shall incorporate the best mitigation measures feasible, and be limited to (I) necessary water supply projects, (2) flood control projects where no other method for protecting existing structures in the flood plain is feasible and where such protection is necessary for public safety or to protect existing development, or (3) developments where the primary function is the improvement of fish and wildlife habitat. Not applicable. PLAN Hermosa does not propose any channelizations, dams, or other substantial alterations of rivers or streams. Land Resources 30240 (a) Environmentally sensitive habitat areas shall be protected against any significant disruption of habitat values, and only uses dependent on those resources shall be allowed within those areas. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa includes policies that protect the existing sensitive habitat areas. Parks + Open Space Element Policy 9.1 calls for the preservation, protection, and improvement of remaining open space areas to the greatest extent possible to improve on existing habitats and prevent further extirpation of species. Policy 9.2 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-16 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy (b) Development in areas adjacent to environmentally sensitive habitat areas and parks and recreation areas shall be sited and designed to prevent impacts which would significantly degrade those areas, and shall be compatible with the continuance of those habitat and recreation areas. requires the consideration of species and habitat impacts and potential improvements when implementing beach maintenance activities. Policy 9.3 is designed to ensure that beaches can function as a quality habitat for permanent and migratory species. Policy 9.4 promotes information sharing and research regarding habitat and wildlife with resource agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure coordinated decision-making and management. Policy 9.5 requires the protection of coastal and marine habitats from impacts from maintenance, construction, recreation, and industrial activities. 30241 The maximum amount of prime agricultural land shall be maintained in agricultural production to assure the protection of the areas' agricultural economy, and conflicts shall be minimized between agricultural and urban land uses through all of those listed in Section Not applicable: Hermosa Beach is a fully developed urban area. No agricultural lands exist within the city. 30241 [added]. 30242 All other lands suitable for agricultural use shall not be converted to nonagricultural uses unless (1) continued or renewed agricultural use is not feasible, or (2) such conversion would preserve prime agricultural land or concentrate development consistent with Section 30250. Any such permitted conversion shall be compatible with continued agricultural use on surrounding lands. Not applicable: Hermosa Beach is a fully developed urban area. No agricultural lands exist within the city. 30243 The long-term productivity of soils and timberlands shall be protected, and conversions of coastal commercial timberlands in units of commercial size to other uses or their division into units of noncommercial size shall be limited to providing for necessary timber processing and related facilities. Not applicable: Hermosa Beach is a fully developed urban area. No timber production lands exist within the city. 30244 Where development would adversely impact archaeological or paleontological resources as identified by the State Historic Preservation Officer, reasonable mitigation measures shall be required. Consistent: Certification of the ER would require the adoption of mitigation measure MM 4.4.3, which is specifically designed to protect paleontological resources. Development 30250 (a) New residential, commercial, or industrial development, except as otherwise provided in this division, shall be located within, contiguous with, or in close proximity to, existing developed areas able to accommodate it or, where such areas are not able to accommodate it, in other areas with adequate public services and where it will not have significant adverse effects, either individually or cumulatively, on coastal resources. In addition, land divisions, other than leases for agricultural uses, outside existing developed areas shall be permitted ; Consistent: All future development in the city would have availability of adequate public services. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-17 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy only where 50 percent of the usable parcels in the area have been developed and the created parcels would be no smaller than the average size of surrounding parcels. (b) Where feasible, new hazardous industrial development shall be located away from existing developed areas. (c) Visitor -serving facilities that cannot feasibly be located in existing developed areas shall be located in existing isolated developments or at selected points of attraction for visitors. 30251 The scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas shall be considered and protected as a resource of public importance. Permitted development shall be sited and designed to protect views to and along the ocean and scenic coastal areas, to minimize the alteration of natural land forms, to be visually compatible with the character of surrounding areas, and, where feasible, to restore and enhance visual quality in visually degraded areas. New development in highly scenic areas such as those designated in the California Coastline Preservation and Recreation Plan prepared by the Department of Parks and Recreation and by local government shall be subordinate to the character of its setting. Consistent: Parks + Open Space Element Policy 6.1 calls for enhancing visibility of existing public access points to and along beaches and coastal parks and trails. Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.8 calls for the enhancement of the unique character of the city's neighborhoods, districts and corridors through land use and design decisions. 30252 The location and amount of new development should maintain and enhance public access to the coast by (1) facilitating the provision or extension of transit service, (2) providing commercial facilities within or adjoining residential development or in other areas that will minimize the use of coastal access roads, (3) providing nonautomobile circulation within the development, (4) providing adequate parking facilities or providing substitute means of serving the development with public transportation, (5) assuring the potential for public transit for high intensity uses such as high-rise office buildings, and by (6) assuring that the recreational needs of new residents will not overload nearby coastal recreation areas by correlating the amount of development with local park acquisition and development plans with the provision of onsite recreational facilities to serve the new development. Consistent: Land Use + Design Element Policy 8.1 prioritizes coastal -dependent uses over nondependent developments near the shoreline, while Policy 8.2 guides development that accommodates coastal -related uses in proximity to the coastal -dependent uses that are supportive of such uses. Mobility Element Policy 1.1 requires the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. Policy 2.1 prioritizes improvements of public rights-of-way that provide heightened levels of safe, comfortable and attractive public spaces for all non -motorized travelers while balancing the needs of efficient vehicular circulation. Policy 3.1 requires the repurposing public rights-of-way enhancing connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit. Policy 4.2 ensures parking facilities and costs of such facilities are not a barrier to beach access by the public. Policy 5.5 encourages smart growth land use features in development projects to ensure more compact, mixed, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes. 30253 New development shall do all of the following: Consistent: PLAN Hermosa includes policies designed to reduce risks to life and property, reduce air quality PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-18 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy (a) Minimize risks to life and property in areas of high geologic, flood, and fire hazard. (b) Assure stability and structural integrity, and neither create nor contribute significantly to erosion, geologic instability, or destruction of the site or surrounding area or in any way require the construction of protective devices that would substantially alter natural landforms along bluffs and cliffs.41 (c) Be consistent with requirements imposed by an air pollution control district or the State Air Resources Board as to each particular development. (d) Minimize energy consumption and vehicle miles traveled. (e) Where appropriate, protect special communities and neighborhoods that, because of their unique characteristics, are popular visitor destination points for recreational uses. emissions and vehicle miles traveled, reduce energy consumption, and protect the individual neighborhoods in the city. Public Safety Element Policy 1.1 requires the evaluation of new buildings and infrastructure for potential for seismic, fire, flood, and coastal storm hazard risks and comply with California Building Code standards to minimize risk. Policy 1.2 requires the preparation of geotechnical reports for new development projects in areas with the potential for liquefaction or landslide. Conservation + Sustainability Element Policy 3.7 requires collaboration with other agencies within the region to improve air quality and meet or exceed state and federal air quality standards through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources, including trucks and passenger vehicles. Land Use + Design Element Policy 1.8 directs the City to enhance the unique character and identity of the city's neighborhoods, districts and corridors through land use and design decisions. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.2 requires the support of land use and transportation strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled and emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. 30254 New or expanded public works facilities shall be designed and limited to accommodate needs generated by development or uses permitted consistent with the provisions of this division; provided, however, that it is the intent of the Legislature that State Highway Route 1 in rural areas of the coastal zone remain a scenic two- lane road. Special districts shall not be formed or expanded except where assessment for, and provision of, the service would not induce new development inconsistent with this division. Where existing or planned public works facilities can accommodate only a limited amount of new development, services to coastal dependent land use, essential public services and basic industries vital to the economic health of the region, state, or nation, public recreation, commercial recreation, and visitor -serving land uses shall not be precluded by other development. Consistent: Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not require the expansion of existing water, wastewater, or storm drainage facilities. In addition, Infrastructure Element Policy 1.6 requires that new infrastructure is sited in a manner to minimize negative impacts to the community and prioritize projects to address the greatest deficiencies. 30255 Coastal -dependent developments shall have priority over other developments on or near the shoreline. Except as provided elsewhere in this division, coastal -dependent developments shall not be sited in a wetland. When appropriate, coastal -related developments should be accommodated within reasonable proximity to the coastal -dependent uses they support. Consistent: Land Use + Design Element Policy 8.1 prioritizes coastal -dependent uses over nondependent developments near the shoreline, while Policy 8.2 guides development that accommodates coastal -related uses in proximity to the coastal -dependent uses that are supportive of such uses. City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-19 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING Section Policy Project Compliance with Policy Industrial Development 30260 Coastal -dependent industrial facilities shall be encouraged to locate or expand within existing sites and shall be permitted reasonable long- term growth where consistent with this division. Consistent: Hermosa Beach does not have any vacant industrial sites within the Coastal Zone area. The existing Tight industrial sites are currently developed. Hermosa Beach does not have any uses identified as heavy industrial. 30261 Multicompany use of existing and new tanker facilities shall be encouraged to the maximum extent feasible and legally permissible, except where to do so would result in increased tanker operations and associated onshore development incompatible with the land use and environmental goals for the area. Not applicable: Hermosa Beach does not have any facilities that would include tanker operations. 30262 Oil and gas development shall be permitted in accordance with Section 30260, if the conditions identified in Section 30262 [added] Not Applicable: Hermosa Beach does not have any areas identified for oil and gas development. are met. 30263 New or expanded refineries or petrochemical facilities not otherwise consistent with the provisions of this division shall be permitted if the conditions are met as identified in Section Not Applicable: Hermosa Beach does not have any areas identified for refineries or petrochemical facilities development. 30263(a) [added]. 30264 Notwithstanding any other provision of this division, except subdivisions (b) and (c) of Section 30413, new or expanded thermal electric generating plants may be constructed in the coastal zone if the proposed coastal site has been determined by the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission to have greater relative merit pursuant to the provisions of Section 25516.1 than available alternative sites and related facilities for an applicant's service area which have been determined to be acceptable pursuant to the provisions of Section 25516. Not Applicable: PLAN Hermosa does not include any areas for thermal electric generating plants. Southern California Association of Governments 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy: Towards a Sustainable Future SCAG has placed a greater emphasis than ever before on sustainability and integrated planning in the 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), The RTP/SCS vision encompasses three principles that collectively work as the key to the region's future: mobility, economy, and sustainability. The RTP/SCS contains a number of policies applicable to PLAN Hermosa. The City considered SCAG goals and policies in the formulation of PLAN Hermosa. SCAG policies and their consistency with PLAN Hermosa are evaluated in Table 4.9-5 (Compatibility of PLAN Hermosa with the 2012-2035 RTP/SCS). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-20 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING TABLE 4.9-5 COMPATIBILITY OF PLAN HERMOSA WITH THE 2012-2035 RTP/SCS SCAG RTP/ SCS Goal SCAG Goal Project Compliance with Goal Goal 1 Align the plan investments and policies with improving regional economic development and competitiveness. Not Applicable: This goal is specific to SCAG's funding sources and investments and is therefore not applicable at the local level. Goal 2 Maximize mobility and accessibility for all people and goods in the region. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa maintains the existing roadway network and provides mechanisms to meet the needs of local and regional transportation and to ensure efficient mobility and accessibility. A number of regional and local programs have informed the policies and implementation actions that would ensure a balance of local and regional needs in the design and operation of the transportation corridors, including: • LA Metro First Last Mile Strategic Plan • Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program • Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan • SCAG RTP/SCS • South Bay Bicycle Master Plan • Beach Cities Livability Plan • Aviation Boulevard Master Plan • Pacific Coast Highway Streetscape Master Plan The Mobility Element is a comprehensive transportation management strategy that addresses infrastructure capacity. The Land Use + Design Element and the Mobility Element of PLAN Hermosa both contain policies that provide specific guidance on how to improve mobility in the city. Refer to Section 4.14, Transportation, of this EIR, which addresses local and regional transportation, traffic, circulation, and mobility in more detail. Goal 3 Ensure travel safety and reliability for all people and goods in the region. Consistent: All modes (motorized and non -motorized) of public and commercial transit throughout the city would be required to follow safety standards established by corresponding state, regional, and local regulatory documents, standards, and regulations. For example, pedestrian walkways and bicycle routes must follow safety precautions and standards established by local (e.g., City of Hermosa Beach, County of Los Angeles) and regional (e.g., SCAG, Caltrans) agencies. Additionally, pedestrian circulation systems are required to be designed and constructed for the adaptation and use of people with disabilities, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state requirements. With the city encompassing approximately 1.4 square miles, active and non -motorized transportation options for local mobility are becoming increasingly convenient and cost-effective travel choices among residents and visitors. As such, the PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element encourages design and construction plans that improve sidewalk infrastructure to safely accommodate high levels of pedestrian activity. Through implementation of the plan, the majority of arterials and local streets throughout the city will provide sidewalks to accommodate a moderate level of pedestrian activities. There are 22 east—west walk streets that connect pedestrians between the beach and surrounding neighborhoods, while the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt and the Strand provide north—south pedestrian connections throughout the length of the city. Mobility Element Policy 3.2 prioritizes investment in the development of a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities. As a means of prioritizing pedestrian City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.9-21 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING SCAG RTP/ SCS Goal SCAG Goal Project Compliance with Goal safety, Mobility Element policies prioritize the development of safe, comfortable, and attractive public spaces and encourage traffic calming strategies that will reduce vehicle speeds and reduce cut -through traffic on residential streets. Thus, PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce design hazards and conflicts between incompatible land uses and between all transportation network users. Goal 4 Preserve and ensure a sustainable regional transportation system. Consistent: All roadway improvements to the existing transportation networks would be assessed to determine how new development would impact traffic conditions. PLAN Hermosa seeks to concentrate new and infill development in areas that would reduce vehicle miles traveled. This will be done by focusing on corridors that provide commercial, service, and office uses in a cohesive and organized manner. This land use network is supported by a connected walkable environment to easily serve local and regional retail needs while providing efficient travel pathways and circulation. These land use policies would serve to enhance the regional transportation system by providing land uses in a format that supports transit thereby alleviating roadway traffic on a regional basis. The Mobility Element seeks to implement a multimodal system consistent with SB 375, SB 743, and the 2012-2035 RTP/SCS. Additionally, the regional plans mentioned in the analysis for RTP/SCS Goal G2 would be applicable to the design and development of the regional roadway network in and around the city. PLAN Hermosa encourages regional coordination of transportation issues and incorporates guidance and policies that help preserve and ensure a sustainable regional transportation system. Goal 5 Maximize the productivity of our transportation system. Consistent: The local and regional transportation system would be improved and maintained to maximize efficiency and productivity through implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The City's Public Works Department oversees the improvement and maintenance of the city's public rights-of-way on a routine basis. Future development in Hermosa Beach under PLAN Hermosa would occur through infill and redevelopment activities primarily in the Downtown core, the Cypress Avenue District, the Coastal Zone including The Strand, and along Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard. Such infill and redevelopment would increase overall demand for transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The City strives to maximize productivity of the region's public transportation system (i.e., bus and bicycle) for residents, visitors, and workers coming into and going out of Hermosa Beach. Existing transit facilities in Hermosa Beach are supported by local and regional transportation authorities, providing local mobility and access to major regional transit facilities in nearby municipalities. PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies promote transit opportunities in the city and provide opportunities to connect to regional infrastructure. PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies support and reinforce the policies of the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan by promoting bicycle facilities and parking throughout the city to facilitate a higher level of connectivity and access for bicycles. The City provides ample opportunities for bicycling via a network of bikeways, bicycle parking, links to transit, and other accommodations. PLAN Hermosa policies directly support the expansion of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities and support the City's goal of being a multimodal community. Mobility Element and Land Use + Design Element policies also support the goals and policies of the Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan and the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-22 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING SCAG RTP/ SCS Goal SCAG Goal Project Compliance with Goal Goal 6 Protect the environment and health of our residents by improving air quality and encouraging active transportation (non- motorized transportation, such as bicycling and walking). Consistent: Goals, policies, and implementation actions are proposed in the PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element to require that all development or redevelopment projects accommodate active transportation by providing connections to existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks and incorporating pedestrian -oriented design practices and that developments provide facilities for non -motorized transportation; improve transit, bicycle, pedestrian, and equestrian connections; and preserve opportunities to maintain or expand bicycle, pedestrian, and transit systems. The Mobility Element requires expanding the bicycle network, integrating bicycle and transit facilities and connections, and requiring new development to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Goal 7 • Actively encourage and create incentives for energy efficiency, where possible. Consistent: Policies and implementation actions are proposed in PLAN Hermosa's Sustainability + Conservation Element that encourage the reduction of energy usage and conservation. Policies would require and facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses and provide a retrofit program to assist home and building owners to make efficiency improvements. PLAN Hermosa would require that large buildings regularly report their energy use and create a sustainable building checklist to minimize waste and maximize energy efficiency. Goal 8 Encourage land use and growth patterns that facilitate transit and non- motorized transportation. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element goals, policies, and implementation actions ensure that future land uses can be adequately served by the planned transportation system. The Mobility Element contains a policy to improve Hermosa Beach's alternative transportation access to local and regional destinations through land use decisions that support multimodal transportation. In addition, PLAN Hermosa Land Use + Design Element contains policies to accommodate a mix of residential and commercial land uses that enable residents to walk to work, shopping, and transit, reduce auto use, and promote transit -oriented development and increased density near transit opportunities. Goal 9 Maximize the security of the regional transportation system through improved system monitoring, rapid recovery planning, and coordination with other security agencies. Consistent: PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element goals, policies, and implementation actions strive to provide local transit service is reliable and safe for all users. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element goals, policies, and implementation actions prioritize disaster preparedness, coordination of services with other cities, and technology improvements for managing safety information and response, and reducing hazards by reviewing the needs of critical facilities, which includes roads. PLAN Hermosa encourages development in a more compact way with an emphasis on redevelopment and reuse. The project would allow additional housing and jobs to accommodate the projected population and employment growth in the area and in the city. Further, the project would guide growth in a sustainable manner that would emphasize a multimodal transportation system to serve city needs. As such, PLAN Hermosa is considered to be consistent with the basic principles identified in the RTP/SCS. South Coast Air Quality Management District Basin Air Quality Plan The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is responsible for clean air planning in the South Coast Air Basin. The SCAQMD adopted its latest Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) in 2012. The 2012 AQMP mandates a variety of measures to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. Local governments are responsible for developing and implementing the AQMP's transportation and control measures. For informational purposes, the SCAQMD is in the process of City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-23 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING developing its 2016 AQMP, which will develop integrated strategies and measures to meet 8 -hour ozone (75 ppb) by 2032 and annual PM2s (12 pg/m3) by 2021-2025 national ambient air quality standards goals, among other goals. As discussed in Section 4.14, Transportation, PLAN Hermosa goals and policies are aimed at reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT). The California Air Pollution Control Officers Association's (CAPCOA) report Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures was used as a set of guidelines for quantifying the environmental benefits of mitigation measures. The CAPCOA guidelines were developed by conducting a comprehensive literature review of studies documenting the effects of land use planning and transportation demand management (TDM) strategies on reducing VMT. Using the results of this study, Fehr & Peers, the City's transportation consultant, developed TDM+, a quick response tool that demonstrates trip reductions from commonly used TDM strategies. The tool also accounts for the interaction among different measures in various categories to avoid double counting. The TDM+ model was used to quantify potential reductions in trip generation and VMT that could occur by 2040 with full buildout and implementation of PLAN Hermosa. As described in Section 4.14, numerous PLAN Hermosa land use and mobility strategies were modeled to demonstrate reductions in VMT, including but not limited to land use strategies such as development of urban infill sites with transit proximity and a density, scale, and design that can facilitate walking, biking, and other alternative travel options. PLAN Hermosa policies include numerous measures that support transportation demand and accessibility management. Specifically, Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 3.2 directs the City to support land use and transportation strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled and emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. Policy 3.7 directs the City to consult with local, regional, and state agencies to improve air quality and limit greenhouse gas emissions through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources. PLAN Hermosa would promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice and greater local economic opportunity, and reduce the number and length of auto trips. These and other policies support region -wide traffic and air quality management strategies that support achievement of AQMP goals. As such, PLAN Hermosa is considered consistent with the Air Quality Management Plan. Additional consistency analysis with the AQMP is addressed in Section 4.2, Air Quality. Existing General Plan PLAN Hermosa would replace the City's existing General Plan. Nonetheless, PLAN Hermosa policies build on existing land use patterns and policies currently encouraged by the existing General Plan. Beach Cities Livability Plan The Beach Cities Livability Plan was developed to improve livability and well-being in Los Angeles County beach cities. It includes a section that provides specific recommendations for Hermosa Beach. The plan strives to support active living by enhancing both land use and transportation systems throughout the beach cities. In order to achieve this goal, the plan highlights ways to encourage community members to become more active in their communities. This includes a complete network of streets and public spaces to support active living; safe, natural, and enjoyable walking and biking conditions; and sustainable transportation choices. Strategies to achieve this goal of healthier, happier people in the city include adopting Complete Streets policies and incorporating Complete Streets policy language into all beach cities' planning documents, creating and adopting street design guidelines, developing a regional pedestrian master plan, increasing enforcement for pedestrian safety, and increasing enforcement for pedestrian safety. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-24 • 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING PLAN Hermosa policies are intended to improve mobility in the city and promote programs to enhance livability and the health of the community. PLAN Hermosa policies are aimed at reducing vehicle miles traveled and thus reducing congestion and improving travel times. Specifically, Land Use + Design Element Policy 13.5 directs the City to encourage and set aside funding for the provision of a high level of neighborhood and community amenities and design features as a way of balancing increased density, recognizing the desire for a very high quality, amenity -rich, livable community. Furthermore, PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element policies set forth Complete Streets policies and numerous strategies to support pedestrian safety. As such, PLAN Hermosa is consistent with the Beach Cities Livability Plan. As described above, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would be consistent with applicable regional and local plans, resulting in a Tess than significant impact. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative setting for land use includes existing, approved, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable development in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay Cities COG planning area. Land use impacts are typically isolated to a jurisdiction, except where land uses may interact or conflict with adjacent jurisdictions. IMPACT 4.9-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to a Cumulative Impact on Dividing a Community or Conflicting with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation? PLAN Hermosa, in addition to anticipated regional growth within the South Bay Cities Council of Governments planning area, would not contribute to cumulative land use impacts associated with the division of an established community or conflicts with land use plans and regulations that provide environmental protection. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Expected population and employment growth in the South Bay Cities COG planning area would result in land use changes at the subregional level. However, new development that would occur in Hermosa Beach as a result of PLAN Hermosa would be generally consistent with the RTP/SCS, in that growth would be focused in areas that are already urbanized, are located in close proximity to transit, and can accommodate additional residential and employee populations without adversely affecting sensitive natural resources. As described in Impact 4.9-1 above, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in the division of any communities within Hermosa Beach or in adjacent cities. As identified in Governance Element Policy 4.1, the City would play an active role in the South Bay Cities COG, SCAG, and other regional agencies to protect and promote the interests of the City; and as identified in Policy 4.3, the City would maintain strong collaborative relationships with adjacent jurisdictions and work together on projects of mutual interest and concern. As identified in the discussion of Impact 4.9-2 above, PLAN Hermosa would not conflict with land use plans, policies, or regulations adopted to reduce environmental impacts. PLAN Hermosa is consistent with the SCAG Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, the California Coastal Act, and the 2012 South Coast Air Quality Management Plan. PLAN Hermosa would complement the general plans of surrounding jurisdictions, as the proposed plan strives for a regional approach to land use and transportation planning in the city and to the improvement of regional connections. Thus, PLAN Hermosa would have a less than cumulatively considerable contribution to regional land use impacts. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.9-25 4.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING 4.9.5 REFERENCES City of Hermosa Beach. 1981. Hermosa Beach Local Coastal Program, Coastal Land Use Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=501. . 2014. Existing Conditions Report (also referred to as the Technical Background Report). 2016. Hermosa Beach Municipal Code, Title 17, Zoning http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=395. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2012. 2012 2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS): Towards a Sustainable Future. http://www.scagrtp.net/download. South Bay Cities COG (Council of Governments) 2009. Sustainable South Bay - An Integrated Land Use and Transportation Strategy. http://www.southbaycities.org/programs/land-use/south- bay-sustainable-strategy-integrated-land-use-and-transportation-strategy. Walkable and Livable Communities Institute. 2011. Healthways I Blue Zones Vitality City: Beach Cities Livability Plan. https://s3.amazonaws.com/s3.vitalitycity.com/docs/community /Vitality%20City%20Livability%20Report.pdf. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.9-26 • 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES • 0 • • 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES 4.10.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to mineral resources associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. There are no applicable PLAN Hermosa policies or implementation actions that address mineral resources. Further, non -fuel mineral resources are protected in California by the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), and no known non -fuel mineral resources exist in the city. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing mineral resource concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this section is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this Draft EIR as Appendix C-13. 4.10.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) last updated the Southern California Mineral Resource Zone (MRZ) maps in 1994. As mapped by the SMGB, the majority of Hermosa Beach is in the San Fernando Valley Production -Consumption Region in Los Angeles County. A small portion of Hermosa Beach south of 2nd Street is in the San Gabriel Valley Production -Consumption Region. A review of the Generalized Mineral Land Classification Map of Los Angeles County - South Half (DOC 1994) shows that the entire planning area is designated as MRZ-3 land. The MRZ-3 classification indicates areas of undetermined mineral resource significance. Although mineral resources may be present, the presence or absence of resources is considered speculative because of a lack of available data. Although mineral resources may be present, the classification of this MRZ-3 area was not broken down to the more detailed MRZ-3a or MRZ-3b categories because no mining has occurred in the area. Additionally, the urbanized nature of Hermosa Beach effectively precludes mining activities in the planning area. 4.10.3 REGULATORY SETTING State regulations and policies provide a regulatory framework to protect mineral resources that would be affected by implementation of a local government's general plan. Because mining is effectively precluded in the planning area, PLAN Hermosa would not affect state mineral resources. Therefore, this section includes the federal, state, and local mineral resources regulatory framework for informational purposes. FEDERAL No federal plans, policies, regulations, or laws related to mineral resources apply to Hermosa Beach. STATE • Surface Mining and Reclamation Act: The Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) of 1975 (Public Resources Code, Division 2, Chapter 9, Section 2710 et seq.) mandated the classification of mineral lands throughout the state to help identify and protect mineral resources in areas subject to urban expansion or other irreversible land uses that would preclude mineral extraction. Since 1975, the SMGB has mapped areas in California that City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.10-1 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES contain regionally significant mineral resources. Deposits of construction aggregate resources (sand, gravel, or crushed stone) were the initial commodity targeted for classification by the SMGB because of their importance to the state. Once areas are mapped, the SMGB is required to designate for future use those areas that contain aggregate deposits which are of prime importance to meeting the region's future need for construction quality aggregates. The key objective of mineral lands classification under SMARA is for each jurisdiction to develop policies that will conserve important mineral resources, if feasible, when such resources are needed. SMARA requires that once policies are adopted, land use decisions by the local agency must be in accordance with that local agency's management policies for mineral resources. These decisions must also balance the mineral value of the resource to the market region as a whole, not just their importance to the local jurisdiction. The State Geologist developed the California Mineral Land Classification System to assist in the implementation of SMARA. The system identifies the following types of MRZs for mapping and reporting purposes (DOC 2010): MRZ-1: Areas where adequate geologic information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence. MRZ-2a: Areas underlain by mineral deposits where geologic data show that significant measured or indicated resources are present. Areas classified MRZ-2a contain discovered mineral deposits that are either measured or indicated reserves as determined by such evidence as drilling records, sample analysis, surface exposure, and mine information. Land included in the MRZ-2a category is of prime importance because it contains known economic mineral deposits. MRZ-2b: Areas underlain by mineral deposits where geologic information indicates that significant inferred resources are present. Areas classified MRZ-2b contain discovered deposits that are either inferred reserves or deposits that are presently sub -economic as determined by limited sample analysis, exposure, and past mining history. MRZ-3a: Areas containing known mineral deposits that may qualify as mineral resources, which could be considered hypothetical resources. MRZ-3a areas are considered to have a moderate potential for the discovery of economic mineral deposits. MRZ-3b: Areas containing inferred mineral deposits that may qualify as mineral resources, which could be considered speculative resources. Land classified MRZ-3b represents areas in geologic settings which appear to be favorable environments for the occurrence of specific mineral deposits. MRZ-4: Areas where geologic information does not rule out either the presence or absence of mineral resources. The distinction between the MRZ-1 and MRZ-4 categories is important for land use considerations. It must be emphasized that the MRZ-4 classification does not imply that there is little likelihood for the presence of mineral resources, but rather that there is a lack of knowledge regarding mineral occurrence. LOCAL • Measure 0: Oil drilling is currently banned in Hermosa Beach. A vote of the people would be required to lift the existing ban. A recent ballot measure, Measure 0, proposed to lift PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.10-2 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES the existing ban, but failed at a ratio of four to one. Thus, the likelihood of new oil extractions taking place in the city is low. 4.10.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this Draft EIR, impacts on mineral resources are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state. 2) Result in the Toss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan. ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa does not include policies or implementation actions addressing mineral resources. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.10-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Result In the Loss of Availability of Mineral Resources? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource or of a locally important mineral resource recovery site. Therefore, the project would have no Impact. The entirety of Hermosa Beach is classified as Mineral Resource Zone 3 (MRZ-3) under the California Mineral Land Classification System. In MRZ-3 areas, mineral resources are present, but the significance of the resource is considered speculative because no mining has historically occurred in the area. Additionally, since most of the area has been developed with residential and commercial uses, and the development pattern is relatively compact with limited areas appropriate for industrial uses, mining activities would not likely be feasible in the city. Subsurface oil deposits are also present in Hermosa Beach; nonetheless, oil drilling is not allowed within the city and PLAN Hermosa would not impact such deposits. Mining activities are classified as an industrial use, and the Light Industrial land use designation in PLAN Hermosa identifies the range of allowable Tight industrial uses as follows: "production uses for light manufacturing, creative art, or design services with professional office as an allowed accessory use." Mining and oil extraction, due to the associated equipment and potential nuisances, would not be considered a light industrial use. Therefore, there would be virtually no locations under PLAN Hermosa in which mining activities would be allowed. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in the direct or indirect Toss of availability of a known or locally important mineral resource, because of the urbanization in the MRZ-3 area and limited areas in which industrial activities would be allowed. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would have no impact on mineral resources. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.10-3 4.10 MINERAL RESOURCES 4.10.5 REFERENCES DOC (California Department of Conservation). 1994. Generalized Mineral Land Classification Map of Los Angeles County - South Half. Accessed January 2014. ftp://ftp.consrv.ca.gov/pub/dmg/pubs/ofr/OFR_94-14/OFR_94-14_Platel B.pdf. . 2010. Guidelines for Classification and Designation of Mineral Lands. State Mining and Geology Board. Accessed July 2014. http://www.conservation .ca.gov/smgb/Guidelines/Pages/guidelines.aspx. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.10-4 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION • • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION 4.11.1 INTRODUCTION This section discusses existing noise conditions in Hermosa Beach, noise standards relevant to PLAN Hermosa, and potential noise impacts associated with buildout of the city in accordance with the proposed Land Use Map. NOP Comments: No comments were received in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP) addressing noise and vibration concerns. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (TBR) and other publicly available documents. The TBR is attached to this document as Appendix C. Appendix F to this EIR provides the noise modeling data used to complete this analysis. 4.11.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-15 describes the basic science of acoustics and specific acoustic practices related to environmental noise and vibration, summarizes how noise affects humans in the built environment, and includes information on noise levels and descriptions of the existing noise sources and sensitive receptors in the city. FUNDAMENTALS OF SOUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE Sound is technically described in terms of amplitude (loudness) and frequency (pitch). The standard unit of sound amplitude measurement is the decibel (dB). The decibel scale is a logarithmic scale that describes the physical intensity of the pressure vibrations which make up any sound. The pitch of the sound is related to the frequency of the pressure vibration. Because the human ear is not equally sensitive to a given sound level at all frequencies, a special frequency -dependent rating scale has been devised to relate noise to human sensitivity. The A -weighted decibel (dBA) scale compensates by discriminating against frequencies in a manner approximating the sensitivity of the human ear. Noise, on the other hand, is typically defined as unwanted sound because of its potential to disrupt sleep, to interfere with speech communication, and to damage hearing. A typical noise environment consists of a base of steady "background" noise that is the sum of many distant and indistinguishable noise sources. Superimposed on this background noise is the sound from individual local sources, which can vary from an occasional aircraft or train passing by to virtually continuous noise from, for example, traffic on a major highway. AMPLITUDE Amplitude is the difference between ambient air pressure and the peak pressure of the sound wave. Amplitude is measured in decibels on a logarithmic scale. Laboratory measurements correlate a 10 dB increase in amplitude with a perceived doubling of loudness and establish a 3 dB change in amplitude as the minimum audible difference perceptible to the average person. FREQUENCY Frequency is the number of fluctuations of the pressure wave per second. The unit of frequency is the Hertz. One Hertz equals one cycle per second. To approximate this sensitivity, environmental sound is usually measured in A -weighted decibels. On this scale, the normal City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-1 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION range of human hearing extends from about 10 dBA to about 140 dBA. Common community noise sources and associated noise levels, in dBA, are shown in Appendix C-15. ADDITION OF DECIBELS Because decibels are logarithmic units, sound levels cannot be added or subtracted through ordinary arithmetic. Under the decibel scale, a doubling of sound energy corresponds to a 3 dB increase. In other words, when two identical sources are each producing sound of the same loudness, the resulting sound level at a given distance would be 3 dB higher than one source • under the same conditions. Under the decibel scale, three sources of equal loudness together would produce an increase of 5 dB. SOUND PROPAGATION AND ATTENUATION Sound spreads (propagates) uniformly outward in a spherical pattern, and the sound level decreases (attenuates) at a rate of approximately 6 dB for each doubling of distance from stationary or point source. Sound from a line source, such as a highway, propagates outward in a cylindrical pattern, often referred to as cylindrical spreading. Sound levels attenuate at a rate of approximately 3 dB for each doubling of distance from a line source, such as a roadway, depending on ground surface characteristics. No excess attenuation is assumed for hard surfaces like a parking lot or a body of water. Soft surfaces, such soft dirt or grass, can absorb sound, so an excess ground -attenuation value of 1.5 dB per doubling of distance is normally assumed. For line sources, an overall attenuation' rate of 3 dB per doubling of distance is assumed. Noise levels may also be reduced by intervening structures; generally, a single row of buildings between the receptor and the noise source reduces the noise level by about 5 dBA, while a solid wall or berm reduces noise levels by 5 to 10 dBA. The manner in which older homes in California were constructed generally provides a reduction of exterior -to -interior noise levels of about 20 to 25 dBA with closed windows. The exterior -to -interior reduction of newer residential units is generally 30 dBA or more. NOISE DESCRIPTORS The decibel scale alone does not adequately characterize how humans perceive noise. The dominant frequencies of a sound have a substantial effect on the human response to that sound. Several rating scales have been developed to analyze the adverse effect of community noise on people. Because environmental noise fluctuates over time, these scales consider that the effect of noise on people is largely dependent on the total acoustical energy content of the noise, as well as the time of day when the noise occurs. The Leq is a measure of ambient noise, while the Ldn and CNEL are measures of community noise. Each is applicable to this analysis and defined below. • Leq, the equivalent energy noise level, is the average acoustic energy content of noise for a stated period of time. Thus, the Leq of a time -varying noise and that of a steady noise are the same if they deliver the same acoustic energy to the ear during exposure. For evaluating community impacts, this rating scale does not vary, regardless of whether the noise occurs during the day or the night. • Ldn, the Day -Night Average Level, is a 24-hour average Leq with a 10 dBA "weighting" added to noise during the hours of 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM to account for noise sensitivity in the nighttime. The logarithmic effect of these additions is that a 60 dBA 24-hour Leq would result in a measurement of 66.4 dBA Ldn. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-2 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION • CNEL, the Community Noise Equivalent Level, is a 24-hour average Leq with a 5 dBA "weighting" during the hours of 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and a 10 dBA "weighting" added to noise during the hours of 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM to account for noise sensitivity in the evening and nighttime, respectively. The logarithmic effect of these additions is that a 60 dBA 24-hour Leq would result in a measurement of 66.7 dBA CNEL. • Lmin is the minimum instantaneous noise level experienced during a given period of time. • Lmax is the maximum instantaneous noise level experienced during a given period of time. • Percentile Noise Level (Ln) is the noise level exceeded for a given percentage of the measurement time. For example, Lio is the noise level exceeded for 10 percent of the measurement duration, and Lso is the noise level exceeded for 50 percent of the measurement duration. HUMAN RESPONSE TO NOISE The human response to environmental noise is subjective and varies considerably from individual to individual. Noise in the community has often been cited as a health problem, not in terms of actual physiological damage, such as hearing impairment, but in terms of inhibiting general well-being and contributing to undue stress and annoyance. The health effects of noise in the community arise from interference with human activities, including sleep, speech, recreation, and tasks that demand concentration or coordination. Hearing loss can occur at the highest noise intensity levels. Noise environments and consequences of human activities are usually well represented by median noise levels during the day or night, or over a 24-hour period. Environmental noise levels are generally considered low when the CNEL is below 60 dBA, moderate in the 60 to 70 dBA range, and high above 70 dBA. Examples of low daytime levels are isolated, natural settings that can provide noise levels as low as 20 dBA and quiet, suburban, residential streets that can provide noise levels around 40 dBA. Noise levels above 45 dBA at night can disrupt sleep. Examples of moderate -level noise environments are urban residential or semi -commercial areas (typically 55 to 60 dBA) and commercial locations (typically 60 dBA). People may consider louder environments adverse, but most will accept the higher levels associated with more noisy urban residential or residential -commercial areas (60 to 75 dBA) or dense urban or industrial areas (65 to 80 dBA). Regarding increases in A -weighted noise levels (dBA), the following relationships should be noted for understanding this analysis: • Except in carefully controlled laboratory experiments, a change of 1 dB cannot be perceived by humans. • Outside of the laboratory, a 3 dB change is considered a just -perceivable difference. • A change in level of at least 5 dB is required before any noticeable change in community response would be expected. An increase of 5 dB is typically considered substantial. • A 10 dB change is subjectively heard as an approximate doubling in loudness and would almost certainly cause an adverse change in community response. EXISTING CONDITIONS Noise -Sensitive Receptors Noise -sensitive land uses are those that may be subject to stress and/or interference from excessive noise. Noise -sensitive land uses include schools, hospitals, churches, and museums. Typically, residential uses are also considered noise -sensitive receptors. Industrial and City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-3 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION commercial land uses are generally not considered sensitive to noise. In Hermosa Beach, noise - sensitive residential uses, schools, and other institutional uses are located throughout the city, occupying approximately 67 percent of the city's total land area. The city has a number of noise sources that are common to urbanized communities, including traffic on local streets, commercial/industrial activities, construction/demolition activities, refuse collection, bars and restaurants, and public and private events and parties. Construction and demolition operations are the only significant sources of groundborne vibration in the city, although heavy trucks traveling over potholes or other discontinuities in the pavement can cause vibration at sufficient levels to generate complaints from nearby residents. A community noise survey was conducted in August 2014 to document the existing noise environment at noise -sensitive receptors in the city. During the survey, average ambient hourly noise levels ranged from 56.2 dBA to 72.3 dBA (Leg), 24-hour ambient noise levels ranged from 68.7 dB to 71.3 dB CNEL, and maximum noise levels ranged from 65.0 dBA to 93.5 dBA maximum noise level (Lmax). Maximum noise levels were attributable to backup alarms, car horns, large trucks, and motorcycles. Traffic Noise Traffic noise is the dominant noise source in the city, originating from major roads such as Aviation Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. To document the existing traffic noise conditions, measurements were obtained at 10 locations in the city, including along Hermosa Avenue, Pacific Coast Highway, and Pier Avenue, to obtain a representative sample of existing noise conditions in the city. The measurements were taken during the summer months to account for increased visitor traffic over a continuous 24-hour period. The results of the noise measurements are summarized in Table 4.11-1 (Summary of Noise Measurement Results). TABLE 4.11-1 SUMMARY OF NOISE MEASUREMENT RESULTS Location # Location Description Measurement Period Average Noise Level, dBA CNEL, dB 1 2703 El Oeste Dr. 12:21 PM to 12:46 PM 67.1 Not measured 2 2491 Valley Dr. 11:36 AM to 12:00 PM 63.5 Not measured 3 1838 Hermosa Ave. 4:27 PM to 4:47 PM 63.6 Not measured 4 1901 Pacific Coast Hwy. 24 hours 56.2-72.3 71.3 5 237 Pier Ave. 10:59 AM to 11:21 AM 56.3 Not measured 6 1021 Bonnie Brae St. 10:18 AM to 10:40 AM 66.0 Not measured 7 420 Ardmore Ave. 1:07 PM to 1:38 PM 56.2 Not measured 8 104 Hermosa Ave. 3:52 PM to 4:14 PM 63.2 Not measured 9 540 1st St. 3:00 PM to 3:25 PM 62.7 Not measured 10 117 Prospect Ave. 24 hours 58.2-65.7 68.7 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 As shown in Table 4.11-2 (Comparison of Noise Measurement Results with City's Policies), the measured ambient noise levels are well above the City's existing policy for maximum traffic noise levels. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-2 COMPARISON OF NOISE MEASUREMENT RESULTS WITH CITY'S POLICIES Location # Location Description Zone Measured Noise Level, dBA City's Policy for Maximum Traffic Noise Level, dBA' 1 2703 El Oeste Dr. R-1 67.1 50 or below 2 2491 Valley Dr. R -1A 63.5 50 or below 3 1838 Hermosa Ave. R-2 63.6 55 or below 4 1901 Pacific Coast Hwy. R-3 56.2-72.3 60 or below 5 237 Pier Ave. SPA -11 (used as R-1) 56.3 50 or below 6 1021 Bonnie Brae St. C-3 (used as R-1) 66.0 50 or below 7 420 Ardmore Ave. M-1(used as R-1) 56.2 50 or below 8 104 Hermosa Ave. R-3 63.2 60 or below 9 540 1st St. SPA -4 (used as R-2 or R-3) 62.7 55-60 or below 10 117 Prospect Ave. R-1 58.2-65.7 50 or below Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 Note: The City's current Generol Plan states that maximum traffic noise levels should be restricted in residential areas to no more than 5 dBA above ambient standard levels. The ambient standard levels are 45 dBA or below for R-1 zones, 50 dBA or below for R-2 zones, and 55 dBA or below for R-3 zones. The results of the noise measurements, together with data provided by the City's traffic consultant on observed traffic counts modeled on peak traffic volumes, were used to analyze the existing traffic noise environment in Hermosa Beach. Table 4.11-3 (Distance to Existing Unmitigated CNEL Contour Lines) summarizes the results of the analysis. The results are presented in terms of an unmitigated CNEL at the distance of the nearest existing receptor from the centerline of the roadway. Also provided in the table are the distances from the roadway centerlines to the unmitigated 60 dB, 65 dB, and 70 dB noise contour lines. The California Building Code standards require that all multi -family residential dwellings be designed to achieve a CNEL of 45 dB within the interior of all habitable spaces. The City of Hermosa Beach extends this requirement to include all single-family residential dwellings. Typically, residential construction in California provides about 20 dB of noise reduction with all windows and doors closed. Therefore, it may be reasonably assumed that all residential dwellings located in an area where the exterior CNEL is 65 dB or less will be exposed to an interior CNEL of 45 dB or less, complying with both the State's standard and the City's policies. The existing CNEL is estimated to be 65 dB or less at the exterior of all residential dwellings adjacent to the analyzed street segments, with the following exceptions: adjacent to Aviation Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue, and adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway between Artesia Boulevard and 2nd Street. At these locations, ambient noise levels are above established City noise standards. In compliance with California Government Code Section 65302(f), Figure 4.11-1 (Existing Noise Contours in Hermosa Beach) shows the CNEL contours for the existing traffic noise environment in Hermosa Beach. The CNEL contours on the map range from 60 dB to 70 dB in 5 dB increments. The CNEL contours were developed utilizing SoundPLAN version 7.3 software, which uses the prediction algorithms developed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for its Traffic Noise Model. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-5 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-3 DISTANCE TO EXISTING UNMITIGATED CNEL CONTOUR LINES Arterial/Segment CNEL at Nearest Sensitive Receptor Distance to Unmitigated CNEL Contours from Roadway Centerline 60 dB 65 dB 70 dB 8th Street 57 dB R/W R/W R/W Hermosa to Valley 47 dB R/W R/W R/W PCH to Prospect Ardmore Avenue 58 dB R/W R/W R/W 16th to 11th 57 dB R/W R/W R/W 8th to 2nd Artesia Boulevard 65 dB 429' 157' 52' PCH to Prospect Aviation Boulevard 70 dB 358' 126' 40' PCH to Prospect Gould Avenue 64 dB 79' R/W R/W Ardmore to PCH Hermosa Avenue 62 dB 71' R/W R/W 27th to 22nd 62 dB 65' R/W R/W 22nd to 16th 62 dB 76' R/W R/W 16th to 8th 8th to Herondo 62 dB 76' R/W R/W Herondo Street 65 dB 156' 50' R/W Hermosa to Valley Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 72 dB 557' 214' 67' 67 dB 419' 152' 48' 16th to Aviation 68 dB 484' 180' 57' Aviation to 2nd Pier Avenue 62 dB 91' R/W R/W Hermosa to Valley 65 dB 147' 46' R/W Ardmore to PCH Prospect Avenue 59 dB R/W R/W R/W Artesia to Aviation 63 dB 62' R/W R/W Aviation to 2nd Valley Drive 59 dB R/W R/W R/W Gould to Pier 60 dB R/W R/W R/W Pier to 8th Note: R/W signifies that the noise contour falls within the right-of-way of the street Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-6 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION FIGURE 4.11-1 EXISTING NOISE CONTOURS IN HERMOSA BEACH 4104 i11U11111 111 111 Illi i � II ntammommanan ����� k111,:... lllilill'llll,lllll 11111,1:1";■_lliell at -5t4111 „7'i111N, IIIIII..`1 .IIINIINIp_. -.t 111IIlIlI11111: N 11i 1111111111•'. Illh111IIIIIlIII. :I. ii 111! tIII$IIIC rtti1L1 � `�111 11.1tit 1 ' %110_,I.��-1t1% =. "Itis, _our" P• CNEt, dB > 70 65 • 70 60 • 65 <= 60 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2014 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.11-7 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION Bar and Restaurant Noise Noise from bars and restaurants is a frequent source of complaints in Hermosa Beach. The noise level produced by a bar or restaurant varies widely, depending on a number of factors. Measurements indicate that average noise levels within the building can range from 75 A -weighted decibels (dBA) (with low background music or no music at all) to over 95 dBA (with entertainment). Maximum noise levels can be up to 20 dBA higher than these average levels. Typical building construction will reduce these noise levels by about 10 dB with windows and doors open, or by about 20 dB with windows and doors closed. Outdoor dining areas can produce average noise levels of 65 dBA to 70 dBA and maximum noise levels of 85 dBA to 90 dBA at a distance of 20 feet from the center of the dining area. The City of Hermosa Beach does not have quantitative standards by which to assess the impact of noise from bars and restaurants. Public and Private Event and Party Noise Hermosa Beach plays host to a number of public and private events throughout the year, as many as 75 days of events during the summer in recent years. For the most part, the public events take place at the beach or around the pier, with occasional events held Downtown or in a park. Some of these public events (for example, the summer concerts at the beach) can generate significant levels of noise that can be heard throughout much of the city. To identify typical noise levels that can be generated by a summer concert, a measurement was obtained on The Strand in front of the closest residence to the pier. The results of the measurement indicated an average noise level of 73.6 dBA and a maximum noise level of 81.8 dBA. Commercial/Industrial Activity Noise In Hermosa Beach, industrial uses are generally concentrated along Cypress Avenue between 8th Street and South Park. These sites are occupied by various light manufacturing facilities, warehouses, construction supply sites, a surfboard manufacturing use, auto shops, air conditioning and heating manufacturing uses, and the City's maintenance yard. Surrounding these industrial properties are various residential properties, commercial properties, and South Park. Another industrial site is located on Valley Drive adjacent to a mobile home park and Hermosa Valley School. Commercial properties are generally concentrated along Pacific Coast Highway, Pier Avenue, Hermosa Avenue, Aviation Boulevard, and Artesia Boulevard. Noise -sensitive residential properties are typically located adjacent to these commercial properties. The primary complaints associated with commercial/industrial properties relate to noise generated by trucks and heavy equipment, loading dock operations, trucks entering and leaving the area, and mechanical equipment located both inside and outside the buildings. Commercial/industrial noise impacts primarily result when activities occur during noise -sensitive times of the day (early morning, evening, or nighttime hours) or the activities occur in areas immediately adjoining noise -sensitive land uses. The City identifies "noise tolerance standards" for various types of land uses in the city, ranging from 45 dBA or below for R-1 zones (including schools, hospitals, nurseries, and rest homes) to 65 dBA or below for M zones. It is likely that the City's General Plan noise tolerance standards are currently being exceeded at many residential properties. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-8 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION • Construction/Demolition Activity Noise • Construction activities generate considerable amounts of noise, especially during the demolition phase and during the construction of project infrastructure when heavy equipment is used. Noise levels resulting from construction depend on the number and types of construction equipment being used and the timing and duration of noise -generating activities. The highest maximum noise levels generated by project construction would typically range from about 90 to 105 dBA at a distance of 50 feet from the noise source. Typical hourly average construction - generated noise levels are about 81 to 89 dBA measured at a distance of 50 feet from the center of the site during busy construction periods, such as when earth -moving equipment and impact tools are being used. Construction noise impacts primarily result when construction activities occur during noise - sensitive times of the day (early morning, evening, or nighttime hours), when construction occurs in areas immediately adjoining noise -sensitive land uses, or when construction durations last over extended periods of time. The City of Hermosa Beach regulates noise by limiting the hours when construction can occur. Municipal Code Section 8.24.050 limits construction activity to between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday (except national holidays), and between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Construction activity is prohibited at all other hours and on Sundays and national holidays. Refuse Collection Noise Trash pickup and compacting vehicles typically use hydraulic equipment to raise and lower the trash bins and to compact their contents. Typical noise levels range from 80 to 85 dBA at 50 feet during raising, lowering, and compacting operations. A typical trash pickup takes approximately 3 minutes, with the higher noise levels occurring during about half of the operation. While noise associated with refuse collection is not explicitly regulated by the City of Hermosa Beach, the City's Municipal Code regulates the times in which refuse may be collected. Refuse may not be collected between the hours of 6:00 PM and 7:00 AM, and may not be collected in residential areas on Saturdays or Sundays. Construction/Demolition Vibration The only significant vibration source in Hermosa Beach is construction equipment. Construction activities may include demolition of existing structures, site preparation work, excavation of below -grade levels, foundation work, pile driving, and framing. Depending on the proximity of existing structures to each construction site, the structural soundness of the existing buildings, and the methods of construction used, vibration levels caused by pile driving or other impact work may be high enough to damage existing structures. Other construction activities, such as caisson drilling, the use of jackhammers, rock drills, and other high-power or vibratory tools, and rolling stock equipment (tracked vehicles, compactors, etc.), may also generate substantial vibration in the immediate vicinity of the site. Table 4.11-4 (Damage to Buildings for Continuous or Frequent Intermittent Vibration Levels) displays reactions of people and the effects on buildings that continuous vibration levels produce. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-9 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-4 DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS FOR CONTINUOUS OR FREQUENT INTERMITTENT VIBRATION LEVELS Velocity Level, PPV (in/sec) Human Reaction Effects on Buildings 0.01 Barely perceptible No effect 0.04 Distinctly perceptible Vibration unlikely to cause damage of any type to any structure 0.08 Distinctly perceptible to strongly perceptible Recommended upper level of the vibration to which runs and ancient monuments should be subjected 0.01 Strongly perceptible Virtually no risk of damage to normal buildings 0.3 Strongly perceptible to severe Threshold at which there is a risk of damage to older residential dwellings such as plastered walls or ceilings 0.5 Severe — Vibrations considered unpleasant Threshold at which there is a risk of damage to newer residential structures Source: Caltrans 2004 4.11.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies regulate noise in the planning area. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of noise that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting for noise is discussed in detail in Appendix C-15. While federal and state guidelines outline noise requirements, specific noise policies are enacted at the local level. LOCAL • ‘ City of Hermosa Beach General Plan Noise Element: The current Noise Element of the City's General Plan was adopted in October 1979 and has the following stated goals: • Reduce transportation noise to a level that does not jeopardize health and welfare. • Minimize noise levels of future transportation facilities. • Establish compatible land use adjacent to transportation facilities. • Allocate noise mitigation costs among those who produce the noise. • Alert the public regarding the potential impact of transportation noise. • Protect areas that are presently quiet from future noise impact. • To achieve these goals, the existing Noise Element identifies a number of policies and implementation programs to guide the City's actions. The existing Noise Element further states that "City policy should be geared to the following maximum ambient noise levels." TABLE 4-11-5 HERMOSA BEACH MAXIMUM AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS Zoning Maximum Ambient Noise Levels R-1 45 or below (also schools, hospitals, nurseries and rest homes) R-2 50 or below (also parks and playgrounds) R-3 55 or below C-1 55 or below C -2/C-3 60 or below M 65 or below Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1979 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-10 • • • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION Maximum traffic noise should be restricted to no more than 5dBA above the ambient standard levels in residential areas, and to no more than 10 dBA above the ambient standard levels in commercial and manufacturing areas. The Noise Element also includes a program that extends the acoustical requirements of the California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2, of the California Code of Regulations) to include single-family dwellings. This extension requires all single-family residential dwellings exposed to a CNEL of 60 dB or greater to have an acoustical study performed that shows how an interior CNEL of 45 dB or less will be achieved in habitable rooms. • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The City's Municipal Code does not provide any quantitative noise standards. However, Municipal Code Chapter 8.24 establishes the City's policy toward noise. The chapter's stated purpose is "to strike a balance between normal, everyday noises that are unavoidable in an urban environment and those noises that are so excessive and annoying that they must be curtailed in order to protect the comfort and tranquility of all persons who live and work in the city." Chapter 8.24 uses the following methods to achieve its purpose: (1) establishing general standards by which to determine whether a noise is annoying and unreasonable; (2) placing limits on the audibility of certain noise sources or on the hours during which certain noise sources may be audible; (3) restricting the hours during which certain activities can produce noise; (4) prohibiting the use of leaf blowers; and (5) requiring that doors and windows at businesses on Pier Plaza be closed when amplified music is being played. Municipal Code Chapter 9.28 establishes the City's policies regarding parties, events, and gatherings on private property. With regard to noise, an event may not produce a noise level that exceeds 95 dBA at the property line at any time. Such events may only take place on weekends (from 5:00 PM on Fridays through 10:00 PM on Sundays). Municipal Code Section 17.42.150(D) (5) states that amplified entertainment at temporary minor special events shall be limited to the hours of 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and may not last more than four hours in any day. Noise levels may not exceed 80 dBA at the property line and may not constitute a nuisance or violate the requirements of Chapter 8.24. Additionally, the chapter states that amplified music and live entertainment shall be permitted notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 8.24 for a maximum duration of four hours (start to finish) and shall cease no later than 11:45 PM on Friday and Saturday nights, and 9:45 PM on Sundays. The event shall conclude not later than 12:00 midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and 10:00 PM on Sundays. 4.11.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, a significant impact would occur if implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Expose persons to or generate noise levels in excess of the standards established in the City's General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, or Noise Ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies. 2) Expose persons or structures to or generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels. 3) Create a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-11 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION 4) Create a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project. 5) Expose people residing or working in the project vicinity to excessive noise levels associated with public and private aircraft operations. There are no airports located within 5 miles of the city; therefore, impacts associated with exposure of persons to excessive aircraft noise will not be evaluated. ANALYSIS APPROACH This analysis of the existing and future noise environments is based on noise prediction modeling and empirical observations. The residential uses in the project vicinity are considered noise - sensitive receptors, while the commercial land uses are not. Short -Term Construction Noise Predicted noise levels at nearby noise -sensitive land uses were calculated using typical noise levels and usage rates associated with construction equipment, derived from representative data obtained from similar projects. Construction noise levels were predicted assuming an average noise attenuation rate of 6 dB per doubling of distance from the source. Groundborne Vibration Groundborne vibration levels associated with potential construction -related activities as well as operations were evaluated using typical groundborne vibration levels associated with construction equipment and heavy-duty trucks, obtained from the Caltrans 2004 guidelines (Caltrans 2004). Potential groundborne vibration impacts were evaluated taking into account the distance from construction activities to nearby structures and typically applied criteria for structural damage. Long -Term Traffic Noise The project's potential to permanently increase traffic noise is addressed under the following scenarios: the existing plus project and the cumulative plus project. The analysis of future traffic noise levels in Hermosa Beach was conducted using data developed by Fehr & Peers for PLAN Hermosa. Two future (Year 2040) traffic scenarios were analyzed. The first scenario assumes that the city continues to develop based on the policies identified in the current General Plan (October 1979), while the second scenario assumes that the city develops in the future based on the objectives, goals, and policies outlined in PLAN Hermosa. The analysis used SoundPLAN version 7.3 software, which uses the traffic noise prediction algorithms developed by the Federal Highway Administration for its Traffic Noise Model. Long -Term Operational Stationary -Source Noise Predicted noise levels associated with on-site stationary noise sources were calculated based on representative data obtained from existing literature and noise assessments prepared for development projects with land uses similar to those that could be development under PLAN Hermosa. Operational noise levels were predicted assuming an average noise attenuation rate of 6 dB per doubling of distance from the source. Expected operational were used for comparison to the City's noise standards. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-12 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, all from the Public Safety Element, that address noise and vibration impacts include the following: Policies Public Safety Element • 7.1 Noise standards. Adopt, maintain, and enforce planning guidelines that establish the acceptable noise standards identified in Table 6.3 [shown in Table 4.11-6 below]. • 7.2 Noise compatibility. Utilize the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix shown in Table 6.4 [shown in Table 4.11-7 below] as a guide for future planning and development decisions. • 7.3 Noise analysis and mitigation. Require all proposed development projects and modifications to existing developments to be compatible with the existing and future noise levels by using the Land Use/Noise Compatibility matrix shown in Table 6.4. Where proposed projects are not located in an area that is "clearly compatible," the City will require that an acoustical study be prepared as a condition of building permit approval demonstrating compliance with the noise standards shown in Table 6.3. • 7.4 Condominium conversions. Require conversion projects from existing apartments into condominiums submit an acoustical analysis demonstrating compliance with the State of California Noise Insulation Standards. • 7.5 Noise ordinance. Establish a quantitative noise ordinance based on or equivalent to Chapter 12.08 of the Los Angeles County Code that at a minimum, addresses: traffic; bar and restaurant; event and party; construction and light industrial noise sources. • 8.1 Transportation facility compatibility. The City will periodically review County, regional, and local plans for transportation facilities and new developments to minimize or avoid land use/noise conflicts prior to project approval. • 8.2 Alternative modes of transportation. Reduce noise impacts by encouraging the use of walking, biking, carpooling, use of public transit, and other alternative modes of transportation. • 8.3 Traffic calming. Where roadway noise levels exceed the "normally compatible" range shown in the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix , consider the implementation of traffic calming measures such as reduced speed limits or roadway design features to reduce noise levels through reduced vehicle speeds and/or diversion of vehicular traffic. • 8.4 Enforcement. Increase the enforcement of posted speed limits and the noise standards included in the State's Motor Vehicle Code to reduce noise impacts from vehicles, particularly in residential areas. • 8.5 Public transit. Work with transit agencies to establish bus routes that meet public transportation needs and minimize noise impacts in residential areas. PLAN Hermosa additionally includes noise standards for interior and exterior levels, as depicted in Table 4.11-6 (Interior and Exterior Noise Standards) and Table 4.11-7 (Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-13 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-6 INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR NOISE STANDARDS [TABLE 6.3 IN PLAN HERMOSA] Land Use Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) CNEL Exterior'. 60 dB Interior2 Residential 65 dB 80+ dB 45 dB Hotels/Motels 65 dB B 45 dB Schools, libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing Homes 65 dB D 45 dB Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters 65 dB B 45 dB Sports Arena, Outdoor Spectator Sports 65 dB D N/A Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks 70 dB B N/A Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries 75 dB D N/A Office Buildings, Business Commercial and Professional 70 dB A 50 dB Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture 75 dB C 65 dB 1. Outdoor environment limited to private yard of single-family residences; private patios of multi -family residences that are accessed by a means of exit from inside the unit mobile home park; hospital patio; park picnic area; school playground; and hotel and motel recreation areas. 2. Interior environment excludes bathrooms, toilets, closets, and corridors. Noise level requirement is with windows closed. Mechanical ventilation system or other means of natural ventilation shall be provided pursuant to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code (UBQ. TABLE 4.11-7 LAND USE/NOISE COMPATIBILITY MATRIX [TABLE 6.4 IN PLAN HERMOSA] Uses Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) <55 dB 55 dB 60 dB 65 dB 70 dB 75 dB 80+ dB Single-, multi -family A A B B C D D Mobile home A A B C C D D Hotel, motel, transient lodging A A B B C C D Retail, bank, restaurant, movie theater A A A A B B C Office building, research & development, professional office A A A B B C D Amphitheater, concert hall, auditorium, meeting hall B B C C D D D Children's amusement park, miniature golf, go-cart track, health club, equestrian center A A A B B D D Service station, auto dealer, manufacturing, warehousing, wholesale, utilities A A A A B B B Hospital, church, library, school classrooms A A B C C D D Parks A A A B C D D Golf course, nature center, cemetery, wildlife reserve, wildlife habitat A A A A B C C Agriculture A A A A A A A Zone A, Clearly Compatible. The specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that buildings are of normal conventional construction without any special noise insulation requirements. Zone B, Normally Compatible. New construction or development should be undertaken only after detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements are made and needed noise insulation features in the design are determined. Conventional construction, with closed windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning, will normally suffice. Zone C, Normally Incompatible. New construction or development should normally be discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features must be included in the design. Zone D, Clearly Incompatible. New construction or development should generally not be undertaken. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-14 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION • Implementation Actions • • SAFETY -29. Incorporate or request from Caltrans the inclusion of soundwalls, earthen berms, or other acoustical barriers as part of any roadway improvement project adjacent to a residential area, school, or other sensitive land use, where necessary to mitigate identified adverse significant noise impacts. • SAFETY -30. Enforce and periodically evaluate truck and bus movements and routes to reduce impacts on sensitive areas, and promote coordination between the Police Department and the California Highway Patrol to enforce the State Motor Vehicle noise standards, to minimize or reduce noise impacts on residential and other sensitive land uses. • SAFETY -31. Apply the Noise Element standards of compatibility described in PLAN Hermosa to new development proposals. Require the mitigation of extraordinary impacts through design features such as building orientation and acoustical barriers, to ensure compatibility. • SAFETY -32. Require new multi -family development, single-family development, and condominium conversion projects to meet the California Noise Insulation Standards (Title 24 of the California Administrative Code) for interior and exterior noise levels. • SAFETY -33. Acoustical analysis reports prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant shall be required for new sensitive land uses within noise impact areas (i.e., those areas where the existing or future CNEL exceeds 60 dB). • SAFETY -34. Adopt and enforce a quantitative Noise and Vibration Ordinance to reduce excessive noise and vibration from site-specific sources such as construction activity, mechanical equipment, landscaping maintenance, loud music, truck traffic, loading and unloading activities, and other sources. • SAFETY -35. Periodically review adopted noise standards, policies and regulations affecting noise in order to conform to changes in legislation and/or technologies. • SAFETY -36. Comply with all state and federal OSHA noise standards, and all new equipment purchases shall comply with state and federal noise standards. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.11-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose Persons to or Generate Noise Levels in Excess of Standards? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that may expose persons to or generate noise levels in excess of the standards established in the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, or Noise Ordinance or in applicable standards of other agencies. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce this impact to less than significant. For the purpose of this analysis, a significant noise impact would be assessed if implementation of PLAN Hermosa would expose people to construction, operational and traffic noise levels in excess of the proposed standards listed in Table 4.11-6 (Interior and Exterior Noise Standards). PLAN Hermosa Proposed Standards As described above, PLAN Hermosa would include several policies proposing new noise standards to be implemented by the City. Policy 7.1 states that the City shall adopt, maintain, and enforce planning guidelines that establish the acceptable noise standards identified in Table 6.3 [included as Table 4.11-6 above]. Policy 7.2 states that the City will utilize the Land City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-15 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix shown in Table 6.4 [included as Table 4.11-7 above] as a guide for future planning and development decisions. The existing Noise Element defines the maximum ambient noise standards as shown above in Table 4.11-5: 45 dB for family residential (R-1); maximum 50 dB for two-family residences (R-2); maximum 55 dB for multi -family residential and neighborhood commercial (R-3 and C-1); maximum 60 dB for general commercial (C-2 and C-3); and maximum 65 for light manufacturing (M). The existing Noise Element also states that maximum traffic noise should be restricted to no more than 5 dBA above the ambient standard levels in residential areas and to no more than 10 dBA above the ambient standard levels in commercial and manufacturing areas. The existing Noise Element was established in 1979; thus, it is not a clear reflection of the existing ambient noise levels in the city and does not reflect city's development. By comparing the proposed ambient (exterior) noise standards of existing and proposed regulations, PLAN Hermosa's new noise standards would exceed current established standards. As described above, documentation of the existing noise environment at noise -sensitive receptors in the city showed average ambient hourly noise levels ranged from 56.2 dBA to 72.3 dBA (Lea), 24-hour ambient noise levels ranged from 68.7 dB to 71.3 dB CNEL, and maximum noise levels ranged from 65.0 dBA to 93.5 dBA maximum noise level (Lmax). Because existing ambient noises in the city are above existing guidelines, PLAN Hermosa would align City policies with existing ambient noise levels and better reflect the existing ambient noise setting in the city. Nonetheless, with implementation of Policy 7.2, uses would be placed in areas with compatible noise sources, thus minimizing potential exposure of sensitive users in areas with excessive noise standards. Policy 7.2 would minimize siting conflicts and potential noise impacts that would arise from improper siting of land uses. Policy 7.3 requires proper siting of uses and the preparation of an acoustic study when such siting is not apparent. Additionally, PLAN Hermosa includes Policy 7.5, which directs the City to establish a quantitative noise ordinance modeled on Chapter 12.08 of the Los Angeles County Code. The City does not currently have a quantitative noise ordinance, as described above in the Regulatory Setting subsection. Los Angeles County Code Chapter 12.08 establishes noise zones based on user sensitivity, interior and exterior noise standards, and corrections for certain types of sounds. For example, the Los Angeles County Code establishes an interior noise standard from 7 AM to 10 PM for residential land uses of 45 dB. Enacting a quantitative noise measurement would further protect sensitive noise users from exposure to excessive noise levels. Although PLAN Hermosa proposes policies that would allow for increases in acceptable ambient noise levels, it also includes policies that would ensure proper siting of noise -generating uses and noise -sensitive uses through the implementation of quantitative policies. Therefore, because the City would establish quantitative noise regulations that would protect sensitive users, PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact due to noise in excess of regulations. Traffic Noise As discussed in Section 4.14, Transportation, future (Year 2040) traffic scenarios were analyzed for Hermosa Beach. The first scenario assumes that the city continues to develop based on the policies identified in the current General Plan (October 1979), while the second scenario assumes that the city develops in the future based on the objectives, goals, and policies outlined in PLAN Hermosa. Figure 4.11-2 (Future (2040) Noise Contours with Implementation of PLAN Hermosa) is a noise contour map for the PLAN Hermosa scenario. Table 4.11-8 (Existing and Future Traffic Noise Levels at the Nearest Sensitive Receptors) summarizes the results of the analyses for the existing and future traffic scenarios. The results are presented in terms of unmitigated exterior CNEL at the distance to the nearest existing receptor PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-16 • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION from the centerline of the roadway segment. Referring to the table, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not generate an exterior CNEL in excess of the existing General Plan noise standards identified in Table 4.11-5 at most of the existing sensitive receptors adjacent to the roadway segments considered in the noise study. Therefore, the impact is less than significant at these locations. While the future exterior CNEL at existing sensitive receptors adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway appears to exceed the standards, the impact is considered to be less than significant for the following reasons: (1) the existing CNEL at these receptors already exceeds the standards, and (2) the future CNEL at these receptors will be the same as or lower than the existing CNEL. Additionally, none of the projected increases are over 3 dB (a 3 dB change is perceptible to the human ear), which would be a significant impact. Construction Noise Typical residential construction in California provides about 20 dB of noise reduction with all windows and doors closed. Therefore, it may be reasonably assumed that the interior CNEL at the existing sensitive receptors would be about 20 dB lower than the values identified in Table 4.11-8. Referring to the table, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not generate an interior CNEL in excess of the standards identified in Table 4.11-5 at most of the existing sensitive receptors adjacent to the roadway segments considered in the noise study. Therefore, the impact is less than significant at these locations. TABLE 4.11-8 EXISTING AND FUTURE TRAFFIC NOISE LEVELS AT THE NEAREST SENSITIVE RECEPTORS Roadway Segment Unmitigated Exterior CNEL Existing Year Year 2040 with PLAN Hermosa 8th Street Hermosa to Valley PCH to Prospect 57 dB 47 dB 57 dB 45 dB Ardmore Avenue 16th to 11th 8th to 2nd 58 dB 57 dB 58 dB 56 dB Artesia Boulevard PCH to Prospect 65 dB 65 dB Aviation Boulevard PCH to Prospect 70 dB 69 dB Gould Avenue Ardmore to PCH 64 dB 63 dB Hermosa Avenue 27th to 22nd 22nd to 16th 16th to 8th 8th to Herondo 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB Herondo Street Hermosa to Valley 65 dB 65 dB Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 16th to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 72 dB 67 dB 68 dB 71 dB 67 dB 67 dB Pier Avenue Hermosa to Valley Ardmore to PCH 62 dB 65 dB 62 dB 64 dB Prospect Avenue Artesia to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 59 dB 63 dB 60 dB 63 dB Valley Drive Gould to Pier Pier to 8th 59 dB 60 dB 58 dB 59 dB City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.11-17 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION While the future interior CNEL at sensitive receptors adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway appears to exceed the standards, the impact is considered to be less than significant for the following reasons: (1) the existing CNEL at these receptors already exceeds the standards, and (2) the future CNEL at these receptors will be the same as or lower than the existing CNEL. Operational Noise and Sensitive Receptors Under PLAN Hermosa, new developments would be located adjacent to roadways. Depending on how close these developments are to roadways, they might be exposed to excessive future noise levels. Table 4.11-9 (Future Noise Impact Zones Adjacent to Roadways) identifies the distances from the roadway centerlines within which various types of new development could be exposed to noise levels exceeding the noise standards identified in Table 4.11-5. If a new development were to occur within the distances shown in Table 4.11-9, the impact of the roadway noise exposure could be potentially significant. TABLE 4.11-9 FUTURE NOISE IMPACT ZONES ADJACENT TO ROADWAYS Roadway Segment Distance from Roadway Centerline Within Which Development May Be Exposed to a Significant Impact Residential, School, Library, Church, Hospital, Nursing Home Hotel, Motel, Auditorium, Concert Hall, Amphitheater, Sports Arena, Outdoor Sports Auditorium, Concert Hall, Amphitheater Office Building, Business Commercial & Professional, Playground, Park Industrial, Manufacturing, Utility, Agriculture 8th Street Hermosa to Valley PCH to Prospect — — — — — — — — — — Ardmore Avenue 16th to 11th 8th to 2nd — — — — — — — — — — Artesia Boulevard PCH to Prospect 159 feet 159 feet 159 feet 52 feet — Aviation Boulevard PCH to Prospect 100 feet — — — — Gould Avenue Ardmore to PCH — — — — — Hermosa Avenue 27th to Herondo — — — — — Herondo Street Hermosa to Valley 45 feet 45 feet 45 feet — — Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 16th to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 186 feet 130 feet 142 feet 59 feet 41 feet 45 feet — — — — — — — — — PierAvenue Hermosa to Valley Ardmore to PCH — 44 feet — — — — — — — — Prospect Avenue Artesia to 2nd — — — — — Valley Drive Gould to 8th — — — — — —" indicates that there is no distance within which a proposed development will experience a significant impact. Nonetheless, the PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element includes actions to reduce noise -related conflicts for new sensitive land uses located adjacent to roadways or commercial/industrial properties. Policy 7.2 requires the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix (Table 6.4 in PLAN Hermosa [Table 4.11-7, above]) be used as a guide for future planning and redevelopment decisions. Policy 7.3 requires all proposed development projects and modifications to existing developments to be compatible with the existing and future noise levels by using the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix. If proposed projects are not located in an area that is "clearly compatible" in Table 6.4 in PLAN Hermosa, the City will require that an acoustical study be prepared as a condition of building permit approval demonstrating compliance with the noise standards shown in Table 6.3 (Interior and Exterior Noise Standards [Table 4.11-6, above]) in PLAN Hermosa. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-18 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION FIGURE 4.11-2 FUTURE (2040) NOISE CONTOURS WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF PLAN HERMOSA 1114110 ®6104-Tr� Illtllltll111111111® �® to t1Wt11111 CJI UI 11111 Ile CNEL, dB > 70 65 - 70 60 - 65 i <=60 To reduce noise levels to meet the adopted standards and criteria, projects may be required to include berms, walls, and sound -attenuating architectural design and construction methods, and the City would only permit development if noise standards and regulations would be met. Such decisions would be made on a case-by-case basis through project design review as required by the City to address potential aesthetic impacts. Policy 7.3 requires all proposed development projects and modifications to existing developments to be compatible with the existing and future noise levels by using the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix. If proposed projects are not located in an area that is "clearly compatible" in Table 6.4 in PLAN Hermosa, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 4.11-19 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION the City will require that an acoustical study be prepared as a condition of building permit approval demonstrating compliance with the noise standards shown in Table 6.3 (Interior and Exterior Noise Standards [Table 4.11-6, above]) in PLAN Hermosa. Policy 7.5 would establish a quantitative noise ordinance to regulate noise impacts from stationary sources. With adherence to and implementation of these PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, program -level stationary noise source and land use conflict noise impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.11-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Expose Persons to or Generate Excessive Groundborne Vibration or Groundborne Noise Levels? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that may expose persons to or generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels. This is a potentially significant impact. PLAN Hermosa would guide development, the construction of which could generate significant groundborne vibration that could expose building occupants to vibration levels in excess of 0.01 inches per second. Table 4.11-10 (Typical Vibration Source Levels for Construction Equipment) identifies the distance within which typical construction equipment generates a vibration velocity level exceeding 0.01 inches per second. If equipment operates within these distances from an occupied building, a significant impact would result. TABLE 4.11-10 TYPICAL VIBRATION SOURCE LEVELS FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT Equipment Vibration Velocity Level at 25 Feet, in/sec Distance from Equipment Within Which the Standard is Exceeded Pile driver (impact) 0.158 158 feet Pile driver (sonic) 0.045 68 feet Clam shovel drop (slurry wall) 0.050 74 feet Hydro mill (slurry wall) 0.002-0.006 9-17 feet Vibratory roller 0.050 74 feet Hoe ram 0.022 43 feet Large bulldozer 0.022 43 feet Caisson drilling 0.022 43 feet Loaded trucks 0.020 40 feet Jackhammer 0.009 24 feet Small bulldozer 0.001 5 feet Source: FTA 2006 Nonetheless, as described in PLAN Hermosa implementation action SAFETY -34, the City would adopt and enforce a quantitative Noise and Vibration Ordinance to reduce excessive noise and vibration from site-specific sources such as construction activity, mechanical equipment, landscaping maintenance, loud music, truck traffic, loading and unloading activities, and other sources. Additionally, mitigation measure MM 4.11-2 would be required to further reduce the potential impact from groundborne vibration. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-20 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION Mitigation Measures MM 4.11-2 For development located at a distance within which acceptable vibration standards would be exceeded, the City shall require the applicant to have a structural engineer prepare a report demonstrating the following: • Vibration level limits based on building conditions, soil conditions, and planned demolition and construction methods to ensure vibration levels would not exceed acceptable levels where damage to structures using vibration levels in Draft EIR Table 4.11-4 as standards. • Specific measures to be taken during construction to ensure the specified vibration level limits are not exceeded. • A monitoring plan to be implemented during demolition and construction that includes post -construction and post -demolition surveys of existing structures that would be impacted. Examples of measures that may be specified for implementation during demolition or construction include but are not limited to: • Prohibition of certain types of impact equipment. • Requirement for lighter tracked or wheeled equipment. • Specifying demolition by non -impact methods, such as sawing concrete. • Phasing operations to avoid simultaneous vibration sources. • Installation of vibration measuring devices to guide decision-making for subsequent activities. Significance After Mitigation Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.11-2 would minimize impacts on sensitive structures from groundborne vibration to acceptable levels. Therefore, this impact would be reduced to Tess than significant. IMPACT 4.11-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Generate Substantial Permanent Increases in Ambient Noise Levels? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not create a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels above existing levels. The impact would be less than significant. There are two types of noise that can lead to an increase in ambient noise levels: traffic noise from new development and operational noise. Traffic Noise Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would lead to an increase of vehicular traffic on local roadways, resulting in increased traffic noise. Traffic noise levels throughout Hermosa Beach were modeled to determine how changes in vehicular traffic volumes would affect traffic noise levels. Traffic noise levels were projected for the buildout year of 2040. Noise impacts resulting from PLAN Hermosa buildout were assessed by comparing future noise levels to the existing condition, as well as to the future condition that would result assuming that the city continues to develop based on the policies identified in the current General Plan (October 1979). Table 4.11-11 (Estimated Changes in Traffic Noise Levels Compared to Existing Conditions) and Table 4.11-12 (Estimated Changes in Traffic Noise Levels Compared to Future Without Project Conditions) compare PLAN Hermosa buildout to the existing and future without project conditions, and provide the estimated increases in traffic noise levels that would occur throughout the city. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-21 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-11 ESTIMATED CHANGES IN TRAFFIC NOISE LEVELS COMPARED TO EXISTING CONDITIONS Roadway Segment Estimated CNEL at Nearest Sensitive Receptor Estimated Increase or Decrease in CNEL 2014 Year 2040 with PLAN Hermosa 8th Street Hermosa to Valley PCH to Prospect 57 dB 47 dB 57 dB 45 dB 0 dB -2 dB Ardmore Avenue 16th to llth 8th to 2nd 58 dB 57 dB 58 dB 56 dB 0 dB -1 dB Artesia Boulevard PCH to Prospect 65 dB 65 dB 0 dB Aviation Boulevard PCH to Prospect 70 dB 69 dB -1 dB Gould Avenue Ardmore to PCH 64 dB 63 dB -1 dB Hermosa Avenue 27th to 22nd 22ndto16th 16th to 8th 8th to Herondo 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB l dB OdB 0 dB 1 dB Herondo Street Hermosa to Valley 65 dB 65 dB 0 dB Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 16th to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 72 dB 67 dB 68 dB 71 dB 67 dB 67 dB -1 dB 0 dB -1 dB Pier Avenue Hermosa to Valley Ardmore to PCH 62 dB 65 dB 62 dB 64 dB 0 dB -1 dB Prospect Avenue Artesia to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 59 dB 63 dB 60 dB 63 dB 1 dB 0 dB Valley Drive Gould to Pier Pier to 8th 59 dB 60 dB 58 dB 59 dB -1 dB -1 dB Referring to Table 4.11-11, PLAN Hermosa would increase the CNEL by at most 1 dB and only at existing residential properties adjacent to Hermosa Avenue between 27th and 22nd streets, between 8th and Herondo streets, and at existing residences adjacent to Prospect Avenue between Artesia and Aviation boulevards. However, the increase in CNEL would not be a significant impact using established noise criteria of 3 dB over existing noise levels (a 3 dB change in noise level is perceptible to the human ear). Additionally, PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies include actions to ensure that traffic noise levels do not increase significantly in the future. Policy 8.2 directs the City to reduce noise impacts by encouraging the use of alternative transportation, including walking, biking, and public transit, to help reduce roadway noise levels. Policy 8.3 directs the City to consider implementing traffic calming measures where roadway noise levels exceed the normally compatible noise limits. Policy 8.5 requires working with Beach Cities Transit and MTA to establish bus routes that minimize impacts to residential areas. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-22 • • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION TABLE 4.11-12 ESTIMATED CHANGES IN TRAFFIC NOISE LEVELS COMPARED TO FUTURE WITHOUT PROJECT CONDITIONS Roadway Segment Estimated CNEL at Nearest Sensitive Receptor Estimated Increase or Decrease in CNEL Year 2040 without PLAN Hermosa Year 2040 with PLAN Hermosa 8th Street Hermosa to Valley PCH to Prospect 57 dB 45 dB 57 dB 45 dB 0 dB 0 dB Ardmore Avenue 16th to 11th 8th to 2nd 58 dB 57 dB 58 dB 56 dB 0 dB -1 dB Artesia Boulevard PCH to Prospect 65 dB 65 dB 0 dB Aviation Boulevard PCH to Prospect 69 dB 69 dB 0 dB Gould Avenue Ardmore to PCH 64 dB 63 dB -1 dB Hermosa Avenue 27th to 22nd 22nd. to 16th 16th to 8th 8th to Herondo 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB 0 dB -1 dB -1 dB 0 dB Herondo Street Hermosa to Valley 65 dB 65 dB 0 dB Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 16th to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 72 dB 67 dB 67 dB 71 dB 67 dB 67 dB -1 dB 0 dB 0 dB Pier Avenue Hermosa to Valley Ardmore to PCH 62 dB 65 dB 62 dB 64 dB 0 dB -1 dB Prospect Avenue Artesia to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 61 dB 64 dB 60 dB 63 dB -1 dB -1 dB Valley Drive Gould to Pier Pier to 8th 59 dB 60 dB 58 dB 59 dB -1 dB -1 dB Operational Noise Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in the construction of new residential and commercial uses throughout the city. These types of uses would also be affected by stationary noise sources. Large-scale heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems would be installed on the new residential and commercial buildings located in the city. Large HVAC systems associated with new buildings can result in noise levels that average between 50 and 65 dBA Leg at 50 feet from the equipment. However, these HVAC units are usually mounted within HVAC wells on the rooftops of the proposed buildings and would therefore provide a buffer around the HVAC systems. According to the Federal Transit Administration (2006), such screening buffers can reduce noise levels by an average of 5-10 dBA depending on the distance to the receiver; therefore, noise levels would not impact sensitive receptors on or off the project site. Additionally, noise from mechanical equipment associated with operation of the project would be required to comply with California Building Code requirements pertaining to noise attenuation and with City regulations requiring adequate buffering of such equipment. Operation of new commercial uses that would be developed with PLAN Hermosa implementation within the city would also involve the delivery of goods, as well as refuse pickup. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-23 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION Two noise sources would be identified with delivery operations: the noise of the diesel engines of the semi -trailer trucks and the backup beeper alarm that sounds when a truck is put in reverse, as required and regulated by the California Department of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA). The noise generated by idling diesel engines typically ranges between 64 and 66 dBA Leg at 75 feet. This noise would be temporary in nature, typically lasting no more than 5 minutes. Further, backup beepers are required by Cal/OSHA to be at least 5 dBA above ambient noise levels. These devices are highly directional in nature, and when in reverse, the trucks and the beeper alarms would be directed toward the loading area and adjacent commercial structures. Backup beepers are, of course, intended to warn people who are behind the vehicle when it is backing up. These noises associated with commercial operations would be temporary and short in duration. Therefore, there would not have a lasting impact on ambient noise levels. As such, PLAN Hermosa implementation would have a less than significant impact on ambient noise levels. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.11-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Generate a Substantial Temporary or Periodic Increase in Ambient Noise Levels? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects, as well as temporary events on public property, in a manner that could create a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels above levels existing without the project. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce this impact to less than significant. Temporary increases in noise levels are generally associated with construction activities and with public or private parties and events. Construction Noise For the purpose of this analysis, construction noise impacts were evaluated as they relate to compliance with Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 8.24.050, which limits construction activity to a period between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM Monday through Friday (except national holidays), and a period between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Construction activity is prohibited during all other hours and on Sundays and national holidays. Development allowed under PLAN Hermosa may result in new construction activity, which could temporarily elevate noise levels at adjacent noise -sensitive uses. As discussed above, Hermosa Beach Municipal Code Section 8.24.050 regulates construction noise by limiting the days and times during which construction is permitted to occur. The City considers any construction noise that occurs during these permitted days and times to be generally acceptable. Exceptions occur depending on the extent of project construction activity and the impact on adjoining sensitive receptors and may require mitigation for project -specific construction noise irrespective of the Municipal Code. The City of Hermosa Beach will apply this section of the Municipal Code to all new developments under PLAN Hermosa and enforce its compliance. Additionally, construction impacts with prolonged noise covering more than six months will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis under CEQA. Therefore, the impact is less than significant. Public and Private Event Noise The City of Hermosa Beach does not regulate the noise levels generated by public and private events held on public property other than to require that a permit be obtained prior to the use of sound amplification equipment. The permit application does not require the applicant to identify the noise levels that would be generated by the equipment. In general, the Chief of Police must approve the application and has the power to revoke such a permit if, among other PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-24 • 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION things, he or she determines that issuance of the permit would substantially interfere with the peace and quiet of the neighborhood or community. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa is not expected to increase the number of public and private events or parties that occur in the city. However, some of these events and parties are generating sufficiently high noise levels to cause some residents to complain to the City and to call the Hermosa Beach Police Department. Municipal Code Sections 9.28 and 17.42 establishes the City's limitations on noise from parties, events, and gatherings on private property by regulating noise levels, permitted times, and a limit on the number of hours amplified sound may be used per day. In addition, Policy 7.5 requires the adoption of a quantitative noise ordinance that regulates the intrusion of noise from parties and events onto sensitive land uses. It is expected that the ordinance would establish noise standards consistent with the PLAN Hermosa noise standards and provide further direction on acceptable noise levels for noise -sensitive hours (e.g., nighttime hours) as well as notification and enforcement measures such as fines and/revocation of use permits for nonresidential uses that are the noise source. With adherence to existing Municipal Code regulations pertaining to noise and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, program -level noise impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES Noise is by definition a localized phenomenon and significantly reduces in magnitude as distance from the source increases. Consequently, only projects and growth due to occur in the Hermosa Beach area would be likely to contribute to cumulative noise impacts. The geographic extent of the cumulative setting for noise consists of Hermosa Beach and neighboring cities. IMPACT 4.11-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Effects of Noise Sources? PLAN Hermosa implementation, in addition to anticipated growth in the region, would result in additional construction activity, as well as stationary and mobile noise sources throughout the city and in adjacent jurisdictions, thereby increasing overall ambient noise levels. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would reduce the effects of increased noise levels on nearby sensitive receptors. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not generate new stationary noise sources outside of the city and would not therefore result in cumulatively considerable noise impacts involving stationary sources. Additionally, groundborne vibration impacts are localized and would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact. PLAN Hermosa implementation would generate additional traffic in Hermosa Beach and neighboring cities. Additional traffic volumes associated with future growth in the city would combine with regional traffic on major interjurisdictional roads and highways leading to Hermosa Beach that would contribute to cumulative effects involving roadway noise. The level of traffic noise attributable to Hermosa Beach -based trips that will occur outside of the city will increase gradually over a long period of time and would not result in cumulatively considerable changes in roadway noise levels in the context of regional traffic growth. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would have a less than cumulatively considerable impact on regional traffic noise. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.11-25 4.11 NOISE AND VIBRATION 4.11.5 REFERENCES California Department of Transportation. 2004. Department of Transportation, Noise, Vibration, and Hazardous Waste Management Office. Transportation- and Construction -Induced Vibration Guidance Manual. City of Hermosa Beach. 1979. City of Hermosa Beach General Plan. 2014. Hermosa Beach General Plan Update Technical Background Report. FTA (Federal Transit Administration). 2006. Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.11-26 • • 4.12 POPULATION AND HOUSING • • 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT 4.12.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental effects related to population, employment, and housing associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The analysis includes a review of the potential to induce population growth and for the displacement of people or housing. PLAN Hermosa Land Use + Design Element policies and implementation actions describe development and infrastructure practices that permit orderly growth while protecting existing residential neighborhoods. NOP Responses: In response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP), one comment relevant to population, employment, and housing was received from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) (see Appendix B). The comment was focused on consistency with the 2012 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and forecast. However, it should be noted that the 2012 RTP applies only to the existing General Plan and that the development assumptions in PLAN Hermosa are assumed in the 2016 draft RTP forecast for 2040, so PLAN Hermosa would be consistent in terms of regional planning. SCAG has incorporated the City of Hermosa Beach's local forecasts for the 2016 RTP as discussed below. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous sources, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report, US Census Bureau data (2010), California Department of Finance data (2015), SCAG's (2015b) Profile of the City of Hermosa Beach and SCAG's (2015a) draft RTP projections, Hermosa Beach's (2014) annual financial report, and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this document as Appendix C. 4.12.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING This subsection presents existing conditions in 2015 for population, housing units, and employment in Hermosa Beach. It also summarizes 2040 estimates for growth based on regional estimates prepared by SCAG, as well as the expected buildout of PLAN Hermosa and the resulting effects on population, housing, and employment in the city. Key findings are summarized below. POPULATION The 2015 population of Hermosa Beach is 19,772. The city is a relatively small urban community in Los Angeles County. From 2000 to 2015, Hermosa Beach's population increased 6.5 percent overall from 18,566 to 19,772 (DOF 2015). The rate of growth slowed during the last five years to 1.5 percent. This rate was less than the growth rate of Los Angeles County during the same five-year period (3.2 percent) (DOF 2015). Table 4.12-1 (Existing Population and Housing Conditions) summarizes trends in population and housing since 2010, with a 2000 baseline for comparison. TABLE 4.12-1 EXISTING POPULATION AND HOUSING CONDITIONS Source: SCAG 20156; DOF 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.12-1 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Population 18,566 19,506 19,536 19,617 19,689 19,758 19,772 Households 9,476 9,550 9,548 9,548 ' 9,539 9,534 9,501 Housing Units 9,840 10,162 10,160 10,160 10,150 10,145 10,110 Persons per Household 1.99 2.04 2.05 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 Source: SCAG 20156; DOF 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.12-1 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT HOUSING There are approximately 10,110 housing units in the planning area. These units are in residential neighborhoods spread throughout much of Hermosa Beach, with the exception of areas directly adjacent to major corridors, in the Downtown core, and in the Cypress Area. Detached single- family dwellings are the predominant type of residence. Some multi -family units and condominiums are dispersed throughout residential neighborhoods, but with greater prominence in areas closer to the Downtown core. Several larger multi -family units are located on Pacific Coast Highway north of Pier Avenue, with several in the southeast corner of the city. Below are additional facts about the condition and price of housing in the city. The number of housing units in Hermosa Beach decreased between 2010 and 2015 by 52 units or 0.5 percent (DOF 2015). Approximately 6.0 percent of housing units in Hermosa Beach were vacant in 2015 (DOF 2015), compared to 5.8 percent countywide. According to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (2000), a housing vacancy rate of 5.0 percent is considered normal. Vacancy rates below 5.0 percent indicate a housing shortage in a community. Hermosa Beach's slightly higher than normal vacancy rate seems to indicate an oversupply of housing, the presence of second/vacation homes, or housing costs that may be higher than the surrounding region's market supply. In 2015, the city had 9,501 households (SCAG 2015b) with an average household size of 2.08 persons (DOF 2015). Household size was smaller than in Los Angeles County as a whole (3.03 persons) (DOF 2015). EMPLOYMENT Detailed employment data by industry was last collected by the US Census Bureau in 2011. As of 2011, there were 16,783 persons in Hermosa Beach 16 years old and over, with 13,188 (79 percent) of those in the labor force (eligible for employment), as shown in Table 4.12-2 (Hermosa Beach Resident Employment by Industry, 2011). Of those in the labor force, 94 percent were employed. The largest employment industry for Hermosa Beach residents was mainly professional, such as financial, insurance, information, professional, scientific, and technology services. These are jobs typically associated with higher education levels and with higher incomes. Lower -wage industries, such as accommodation and food services, entertainment, and production, were less represented in the Hermosa Beach labor force, each at 4 percent. TABLE 4.12-2 HERMOSA BEACH RESIDENT EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY, 2011 Source: US Census Bureau 2011 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 2011 Percentage Employed Population, 16 and over 12,394 100 Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Information, Prof./Tech., Exec. Mgmt. 4,729 38 Manufacturing 1,384 11 Educational Services 1,051 8 Retail Trade 982 8 Health Care and Social Assistance 904 7 Wholesale Trade, Transport, Warehousing 835 7 Accommodation and Food Services 553 4 Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 462 4 Production (Agriculture, Forestry, Resource Extraction, Utilities, and Construction) 448 4 Admin. & Support, Waste Mgmt./Remediation 394 3 Other Services (excluding Public Admin.) 327 3 Public Administration 325 3 Source: US Census Bureau 2011 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT The largest employment sector measured by number of jobs in Hermosa Beach is the accommodation and food service industry, accounting for 31 percent of all jobs in 2011 as summarized in Table 4.12-3 (Jobs by Industry, 2002-2011). There were 1,026 financial, information, and professional jobs in the city; however, over 4,700 Hermosa Beach residents are employed in this sector. This shows that residents are traveling outside of the city to work. Only 462 residents employed in this sector live and work in Hermosa Beach. TABLE 4.12-3 JOBS BY INDUSTRY. 2002-2011 Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Inc., 2014 () Denotes decrease As of 2013, there were 7,622 jobs in the city. The largest sector was the leisure sector, with 30.4 percent of the jobs. Other large sectors included professional (14.1 percent), retail (12.6 percent), and education (11 percent) (SCAG 2015b). As shown in Table 4.12-4 (Percentage of Jobs by Sector, 2007-2013), from 2007 to 2013, the share of leisure jobs increased from 25.5 to 30.4 percent, while the share of most other sectors shrank, including finance, professional, and retail. TABLE 4.12-4 PERCENTAGE OF JOBS BY SECTOR, 2007-2013 Sector 2011 Percentage 2002-2011 Change All Jobs 5,862 100% 628 Accommodation and Food Services 1,801 31% 445 Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Information, Prof./Tech., Exec. Mgmt. 1,026 18% 82 Retail Trade 847 14% 8 Health Care and Social Assistance 394 7% 130 Other Services (excluding Public Admin.) 390 7% (7) Admin. & Support, Waste Mgmt./Remediation 364 6% (182) Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 289 5% 137 Educational Services 216 4% 17 Wholesale Trade, Transport, Warehousing 206 4% 32 Public Administration 173 3% 37 Production (Agriculture, Forestry, Resource Extraction, Utilities, and Construction) 156 3% (71) Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Inc., 2014 () Denotes decrease As of 2013, there were 7,622 jobs in the city. The largest sector was the leisure sector, with 30.4 percent of the jobs. Other large sectors included professional (14.1 percent), retail (12.6 percent), and education (11 percent) (SCAG 2015b). As shown in Table 4.12-4 (Percentage of Jobs by Sector, 2007-2013), from 2007 to 2013, the share of leisure jobs increased from 25.5 to 30.4 percent, while the share of most other sectors shrank, including finance, professional, and retail. TABLE 4.12-4 PERCENTAGE OF JOBS BY SECTOR, 2007-2013 Sector 2007 2013 Leisure 25.5% 30.4% Professional & Management 17.0% 14.1% Retail 11.5% 12.6% Finance 10.8% 6.7% Public 10.7% 10.5% Education 8.5% 11.0% Other 5.7% 5.4% Construction 2.6% 2.3% Wholesale Trade 1.5% 2.1% Information 2.3% 1.9% Manufacturing 2.2% 1.4% Transportation 1.6% 1.3% Agriculture 02% 0.1% All Jobs 100% 100% Source: SCAG 20156 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.12-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT JOBS TO HOUSING RATIO The jobs to housing ratio is a measure that can reveal whether a community is primarily an employment center or a residential center, often referred to as a bedroom community. Jobs -rich areas are net importers of employees from other areas because they have more jobs than resident workers. Areas with fewer businesses, like Hermosa Beach, are exporters of employees. When a jobs to housing ratio is especially low, it typically indicates that much of the community is commuting longer distances than may be true in communities with a more equal balance. This can result in the need for additional road infrastructure and many more vehicle miles traveled, not only for work trips but other trips to services, amenities, and entertainment. In 2015, Hermosa Beach had a jobs to housing ratio of 0.75 (7,622 jobs/10,110 housing units) (SCAG 2015b), meaning there were roughly three-fourths of a job for every housing unit in the city. A jobs to housing ratio of 1.0 means one job exists for every housing unit in an area. However, a jobs to housing ratio does not compare the type of jobs and salary to the cost of housing. So, although a city may have an equal number of jobs and housing units, this does not mean that the persons employed in a city can afford to live in that city. PROJECTED POPULATION, EMPLOYMENT, AND HOUSING CONDITIONS SCAG's 2016 Draft Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) provides population, households, and employment estimates for individual cities and unincorporated areas in the region. These forecasts are based on regional trends and market pressures as well as jurisdictions' adopted plans and policies and additional input from the individual jurisdictions during the planning process. The 2040 draft forecasts were published in December 2015. SCAG's 2016 forecasts for Hermosa Beach for 2040 are presented in Table 4.12-5 (SCAG 2016 Draft RTP Forecasts for 2040). TABLE 4.12-5 SCAG 2016 DRAFT RTP FORECASTS FOR 2040 Source: SCAG 2015a As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, PLAN Hermosa's residential unit growth forecast estimates that approximately 300 residential units may be added in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years based on an analysis of vacant and underutilized parcels in the low-, medium-, and high- density residential designations (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). 4.12.3 REGULATORY SETTING State and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to population, employment, and housing in Hermosa Beach. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of population, employment, and housing that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. STATE • Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA): The RHNA is developed by SCAG and allocates to cities and counties their "fair share" of the region's projected housing needs PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-4 2040 Population 20,400 Households 9,800 Jobs 10,000 Source: SCAG 2015a As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, PLAN Hermosa's residential unit growth forecast estimates that approximately 300 residential units may be added in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years based on an analysis of vacant and underutilized parcels in the low-, medium-, and high- density residential designations (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). 4.12.3 REGULATORY SETTING State and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to population, employment, and housing in Hermosa Beach. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of population, employment, and housing that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. STATE • Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA): The RHNA is developed by SCAG and allocates to cities and counties their "fair share" of the region's projected housing needs PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-4 • 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT JOBS TO HOUSING RATIO The jobs to housing ratio is a measure that can reveal whether a community is primarily an employment center or a residential center, often referred to as a bedroom community. Jobs -rich areas are net importers of employees from other areas because they have more jobs than resident workers. Areas with fewer businesses, like Hermosa Beach, are exporters of employees. When a jobs to housing ratio is especially low, it typically indicates that much of the community is commuting longer distances than may be true in communities with a more equal balance. This can result in the need for additional road infrastructure and many more vehicle miles traveled, not only for work trips but other trips to services, amenities, and entertainment. In 2015, Hermosa Beach had a jobs to housing ratio of 0.75 (7,622 jobs/10,110 housing units) (SCAG 2015b), meaning there were roughly three-fourths of a job for every housing unit in the city. A jobs to housing ratio of 1.0 means one job exists for every housing unit in an area. However, a jobs to housing ratio does not compare the type of jobs and salary to the cost of housing. So, although a city may have an equal number of jobs and housing units, this does not mean that the persons employed in a city can afford to live in that city. PROJECTED POPULATION, EMPLOYMENT, AND HOUSING CONDITIONS SCAG's 2016 Draft Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) provides population, households, and employment estimates for individual cities and unincorporated areas in the region. These forecasts are based on regional trends and market pressures as well as jurisdictions' adopted plans and policies and additional input from the individual jurisdictions during the planning process. The 2040 draft forecasts were published in December 2015. SCAG's 2016 forecasts for Hermosa Beach for 2040 are presented in Table 4.12-5 (SCAG 2016 Draft RTP Forecasts for 2040). TABLE 4.12-5 SCAG 2016 DRAFT RTP FORECASTS FOR 2040 Source: SCAG 2015a As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, PLAN Hermosa's residential unit growth forecast estimates that approximately 300 residential units may be added in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years based on an analysis of vacant and underutilized parcels in the low-, medium-, and high- density residential designations (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). 4.12.3 REGULATORY SETTING State and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to population, employment, and housing in Hermosa Beach. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of population, employment, and housing that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. STATE • Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA): The RHNA is developed by SCAG and allocates to cities and counties their "fair share" of the region's projected housing needs PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-4 2040 Population 20,400 Households 9,800 Jobs 10,000 Source: SCAG 2015a As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, PLAN Hermosa's residential unit growth forecast estimates that approximately 300 residential units may be added in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years based on an analysis of vacant and underutilized parcels in the low-, medium-, and high- density residential designations (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). 4.12.3 REGULATORY SETTING State and local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to population, employment, and housing in Hermosa Beach. They provide the regulatory framework for addressing all aspects of population, employment, and housing that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. STATE • Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA): The RHNA is developed by SCAG and allocates to cities and counties their "fair share" of the region's projected housing needs PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-4 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT based on household income groupings over the planning period for the housing elements of each specific jurisdiction. In October 2012, SCAG adopted a Final Regional Housing Needs Assessment Allocation Plan that covers the 2013 through 2021 planning period. Cities and counties must develop a housing element to address how they will meet their RHNA. • Housing Element Requirements: Under California law, housing elements must analyze existing and projected housing needs, examine special housing needs within the population, evaluate the effectiveness of current goals and policies, identify governmental and other constraints, determine compliance with other housing laws, and identify opportunities to incorporate energy conservation into the housing stock. The element must also establish goals, policies, and programs to maintain, enhance, and develop housing. • California Relocation Law: California Public Resources Code Section 7260(b) requires the fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced as a direct result of programs or projects undertaken by a public entity. The law requires agencies to prepare a relocation plan, provide relocation payments, and identify substitute housing opportunities for any resident who is to be displaced by a public project. LOCAL • City of Hermosa Beach 2013-2021 Housing Element: Hermosa Beach adopted its 2013- 2021 Housing Element in September 2013. The Housing Element noted the continuing need to develop affordable workforce housing, as well as housing for seniors, disabled residents, and other residents with special needs. Hermosa Beach was able to accommodate its RHNA within its existing zoning and land use designations through the replacement of existing units and redevelopment of underutilized parcels. This demonstrates that Hermosa Beach has sufficient sites at appropriate densities to meet legal requirements for addressing the city's fair share of the regional housing need. 4.12.4IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The EIR evaluates the potential environmental effects of implementation of PLAN Hermosa related to population, employment, and housing, including a review of the potential to induce population growth and to displace people or housing. The analysis is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa, compared to existing conditions. Population and Housing Thresholds For the purposes of the EIR, impacts on population, employment, and housing are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure). 2) Displace substantial numbers of existing homes, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. 3) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-5 • 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. The following analysis of population, employment, and housing impacts is qualitative and based on available demographic and economic data for Hermosa Beach, along with a review of regional information. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the city complies with applicable laws, regulations, design standards, and plans. An analysis of cumulative impacts uses qualitative information for Hermosa Beach and the region. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address population, employment, and housing include the following: Policies Land Use + Design Element • 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. • 1.2 Focused infill potential. Proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. • 2.2 Variety of types of neighborhoods. Encourage preservation of existing single -density neighborhoods within the city and ensure that neighborhood types are dispersed throughout the city. • 2.4 Single -density neighborhoods. Preserve and maintain the Hermosa Hills, Eastside, Valley, North End, and Hermosa View neighborhoods as predominantly single-family residential neighborhoods. Mobility Element • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes. Infrastructure Element • 1.4 Fair share assessments. Require new development and redevelopment projects to pay their fair share of the cost of infrastructure improvements needed to serve the project, and ensure that needed infrastructure is available prior to or at the time of project completion. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa land use designations and Zoning Ordinance zoning districts. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.12-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Induce Substantial Population Growth? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not substantially increase population in Hermosa Beach. Since land use designations and allowable residential densities are only altered to bring consistency between the zoning and land use maps, the total allowable development potential in the city would not be changed with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Providing for the orderly growth of Hermosa Beach is a basic purpose of PLAN Hermosa, which would direct expected growth. This impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-6 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT PLAN Hermosa's proposed land use plan includes the introduction and expansion of new land commercial use designations (Recreational Commercial and Gateway Commercial) and adjusts the allowed land use intensities—some higher, some lower—across most nonresidential land use designations. Compared to the adopted General Plan, PLAN Hermosa alters land use designations and zoning to focus redevelopment in certain areas and provides accommodation for a limited increase in population and employment in Hermosa Beach. Table 4.12-6 (PLAN Hermosa Residential Development Capacity) and Table 4.12-7 (PLAN Hermosa Nonresidential Development Capacity) present the anticipated residential and nonresidential land use changes and resulting increases in living units and nonresidential square footage, respectively, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. TABLE 4.12-6 PLAN HERMOSA RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT CAPACITY Land Use Designation Acres Existing Units (2015) New Unit Potential (2015-2040) Total Units (2040) Total 621 10,109 300 10,409 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 TABLE 4.12-7 PLAN HERMOSA NONRESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT CAPACITY Land Use Designation Acres Existing Building Sq. Ft. (2015) New Building Sq. Ft. Potential (2015-2040) Total Building Sq. Ft. (2040) Total 83 2,106,400 630,400 2,736,800 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 As shown in Table 4.12-8 (PLAN Hermosa Forecast for 2040), the resulting increase in accommodated population, households, and employment is consistent with SCAG forecasts for 2040 (Table 4.12-5)) TABLE 4.12-8 PLAN HERMOSA FORECAST FOR 2040 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 The land use plan would focus and encourage reinvestment on key underutilized properties, as well as on access and circulation improvements. However, these investments are intended to accommodate growth in population and jobs that would occur in Hermosa Beach through 2040. PLAN Hermosa includes policies to manage this anticipated growth and focus it in certain infill areas while maintaining existing density in established residential neighborhoods. The threshold of significance for indirect growth is the development of new roads or other infrastructure. PLAN Hermosa Land Use + Design Element Policies 1.1 and 1.2 are specifically crafted to ensure that the fundamental pattern of existing land uses remains the same and that limited growth only occurs in areas appropriate for infill. These infill areas can utilize existing infrastructure in the city. Therefore, 1 The published SCAG data (Table 4.12-5) are rounded to the nearest 100. As such, the slight difference in forecasts (33 people and 22 households) is negligible and is accounted for in the rounded forecast. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-7 2015 Change (2015-2040) City Forecast 2040 Population 19,772 661 20,433 Households 9,501 321 9,822 Jobs 7,622 2,378 10,000 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 The land use plan would focus and encourage reinvestment on key underutilized properties, as well as on access and circulation improvements. However, these investments are intended to accommodate growth in population and jobs that would occur in Hermosa Beach through 2040. PLAN Hermosa includes policies to manage this anticipated growth and focus it in certain infill areas while maintaining existing density in established residential neighborhoods. The threshold of significance for indirect growth is the development of new roads or other infrastructure. PLAN Hermosa Land Use + Design Element Policies 1.1 and 1.2 are specifically crafted to ensure that the fundamental pattern of existing land uses remains the same and that limited growth only occurs in areas appropriate for infill. These infill areas can utilize existing infrastructure in the city. Therefore, 1 The published SCAG data (Table 4.12-5) are rounded to the nearest 100. As such, the slight difference in forecasts (33 people and 22 households) is negligible and is accounted for in the rounded forecast. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-7 • 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT the shift of population and business growth to be concentrated in certain areas is not substantial when compared to the expected growth anticipated without the proposed project and the availability of infrastructure and the necessary public services to serve these concentrated areas of growth. Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in a substantial increase in population growth since the overall development potential of land uses would not be dramatically changed from the existing General Plan. The jobs to housing ratio would improve to 0.96 (10,000 jobs/10,409 housing units), as compared to 0.75 in 2015. The physical environmental impact that is associated with the jobs to housing balance consists of traffic (commuting for jobs) and the related impacts of traffic noise, air quality, and greenhouse gas emissions. These environmental issues are addressed elsewhere in this EIR. The development potential provided by PLAN Hermosa would be consistent with the SCAG 2040 forecast for population and employment growth. Additional housing and commercial square footage may occur in specific infill locations in the city, concentrating anticipated natural growth. PLAN Hermosa's Land Use + Design Element includes Policies 1.1 and 2.2, which ensure that areas of growth are balanced with areas of preservation. Additionally, Infrastructure Element Policy 1.4 addresses the cost and availability of infrastructure, thus avoiding indirect inducement of population growth. This impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.12-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Displace People or Housing? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would allow the construction of new residential, commercial, and industrial uses, as well as infrastructure, public service, and recreation improvements. However, there would be no substantial changes to the residential designated land use areas in the city that would result in a large displacement of existing residences or housing. This is a less than significant impact. PLAN Hermosa's proposed Land Use Map includes modest changes to land use designations that would allow additional nonresidential development, generally focused in existing commercial and industrial areas and in areas with access to transit, including in the Civic Center District, Cypress District, and Aviation Corridor. The intent of PLAN Hermosa is to direct anticipated growth to be orderly and meet community needs and desires. Land Use + Design Element, Mobility Element, and Infrastructure Element policies would protect existing residential neighborhoods from encroachment of incompatible uses (Land Use + Design Element Policy 2.4), ensure smart growth in development project (Mobility Element Policy 5.5), and ensure growth does not result in undue burden on infrastructure that could increase costs for the community (Infrastructure Element Policy 1.4). The Land Use Map and Land Use + Design Policy 5.6 encourage revitalization, land use changes, and increases in density. Envisioned changes in land use would be indirect and incremental, and would primarily affect existing commercial and industrial parcels. Land Use + Design Element Policies 1.1 and 2.2 are intended to preserve existing residential neighborhoods and a variety of housing options. Because PLAN Hermosa policies would protect existing residential neighborhoods and do not propose substantial changes to existing residential designated areas, impacts related to the displacement of people or housing would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-8 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative context for population, employment, and housing impacts is the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area, given that its demographics are influenced by employment and housing opportunities and constraints in this region. IMPACT 4.12-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to a Cumulative Inducement of Population Growth? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies, in addition to anticipated land use changes throughout the South Bay Cities COG planning area, would increase population, both directly and indirectly (through increased employment). However, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. The 2040 population projection for the South Bay Cities COG planning area (excluding the Harbor Bay/San Pedro communities in the City of Los Angeles and County of Los Angeles Districts 2 and 4) is 823,500 people, and the 2040 employment projection is 373,400 jobs (SCAG 2015a). The PLAN Hermosa increase in population (661) and jobs (2,378) by 2040 is less than 0.1 percent of the growth forecast for the South Bay Cities COG planning area. In addition, as described in Impact 4.12-1, PLAN Hermosa's population and employment would be consistent with the SCAG forecast for 2040. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the potential for cumulative inducement of population growth would not be cumulatively considerable. In addition, PLAN Hermosa's policies and programs are designed to best manage and accommodate the city's growth. The physical environmental effects of the city's growth on the region is evaluated in the technical sections of this EIR. Therefore, the impact is less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.12-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Impacts on Displacing People or Housing? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in addition to anticipated changes throughout the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could directly or indirectly displace people or housing. However, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Changes in the South Bay Cities COG planning area through 2040 may result in some displacement of people or housing through expansion of nonresidential land uses, infrastructure improvements such as roadway, utility, or transit expansion, or other changes. However, as described in Impact 4.12-2, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not substantially alter the residential designated land areas of the city and thus would not displace a large number of people or housing in Hermosa Beach; therefore, the plan would not result in a considerable contribution. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.12-9 • 4.12 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT 4.12.5 REFERENCES California Department of Housing and Community Development. 2000. Raising the Roof: California Housing Development Projections and Constraints, 1997-2020. Statewide Housing Plan Update. City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. Comprehensive Annual Financial Report 2013-2014. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=209. . 2015. "SCAG Integrated Forecast Response." Approved Local Forecast for the SCAG 2016-2040 RTP. DOF (California Department of Finance). 2015. Table E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, January 1, 2011-2015, with a 2010 Benchmark. Economic and Planning Systems, Inc. 2014. LEHD Census, "Hermosa Beach." Accessed December 2014. http://www.epsys.com/. SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2015a. 2016 RTP/SCS Draft Growth Forecast by Jurisdiction. http://scagrtpscs.net/Documents/2016/draft/d2016RTPSCS_DemographicsGrowthForecas t.pdf. . 2015b. Profile of the City of Hermosa Beach. https://www.scag.ca.gov/Documents/HermosaBeach.pdf. US Census Bureau. 2010. American Community Survey. DP -1. Accessed November 2015. http://factfinder2.census.gov. 2011. Economic Census. DP03. Accessed December 2015. http://factfinder2.census.gov. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.12-10 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section describes the public services, community facilities, and utilities that may be impacted from implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Specifically, this section includes an examination of fire protection and emergency medical services, law enforcement services, public schools, parks and recreation, library facilities, water supply and service, wastewater services, solid waste services, and energy. Each subsection includes a description of existing facilities and infrastructure, applicable service goals, potential physical environmental impacts resulting from anticipated changes in public service provision from implementation of PLAN Hermosa, and cumulative impacts. NOP Comments: In response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP), a comment was received from the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, stating that the district's regional wastewater conveyance system should be able to accommodate PLAN Hermosa (see Appendix B-2). In addition, a comment was received from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, stating that "the Hermosa Beach Fire Department has jurisdiction concerning the project and will be setting conditions" (see Appendix B-2). No comments regarding police protection, schools, libraries, or other public services were received in response to the NOP. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous sources, including the Hermosa Beach Fire Department, the Hermosa Beach City School District, publicly available documents, personal and written communication with service providers, and service agency websites. The Technical Background Report (TBR) prepared for PLAN Hermosa is attached to this document as Appendix C. CITY FACILITIES STRATEGIC PLAN Currently, the City is in the process of preparing the Civic Facilities Strategic Plan, which will address the current and future facility needs for police, fire, the public library, the public works yard, and City Hall functions. The current condition of each facility is described briefly below. City Hall The existing City Hall was under construction beginning in 1960 and underwent renovations in 2000. City Hall is located at 1315 Valley Drive and currently includes space for the City Management, Finance, Public Works, and Community Development departments. City Hall has been previously identified as constrained for space and has been the subject of numerous space studies. Due to space constraints, some services are administered from other locations and facilities. Fire Station The City of Hermosa Beach has one fire station, which houses three fire engines and two ambulances. This fire station, located at 540 Pier Avenue, was originally built at its current location in 1959. However, the facility has been found to be structurally and operationally deficient such that it will most likely not be able to continue operating in the event of a major earthquake. Given the identified structural deficiency, the Fire Department dormitories were moved into temporary facilities in 2015, and the fire tower associated with the facility was demolished. The Fire Department dormitories will continue to be housed in temporary facilities until a facility that meets current seismic standards for a critical facility is developed. Police Station The existing police station, located at 540 Pier Avenue, was initially built in conjunction with the Fire Station in 1959 and was renovated in 2000. The Police Department also occupies space on the City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-1 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES basement level of City Hall, and the Community Services Division is located at a City -owned building adjacent to Clark Field. Since the facility was originally built, there have been major changes in the operational requirements of a police department, which the current facility does not efficiently support. Some of the many changes include the needs for specific areas for evidence processing and storage, increased record keeping storage, increases in the amount and types of protection equipment, increased staffing, specific legal requirements for holding and processing areas, and increased numbers of female police officers. The renovation or rebuilding of the police station into a modernized facility is one of the elements to be considered in the City's Civic Facilities Strategic Plan. Public Works Yard The Public Works Yard facility comprises various operational areas and several buildings. The most urgent upgrade item identified is the installation of a stormwater system and wash -down area with clarifiers which is required by the State Water Resources Control Board. The Public Works Yard is located at 555 6th Street and comprises various buildings and operational areas. The yard provides space and equipment to maintain all of the City's buildings and facilities. The main building (modular building) was installed circa 1976 and is in fair condition. The shop building was constructed in the early part of the last century, is seismically unsafe, and has passed its expected useful life. While not immediately impacting the safety and protection of the citizens of Hermosa Beach, the replacement of this facility on the existing site is included as a part of the long-term vision for facility planning. City Library The ground was broken for the library, facing Pier Avenue, on November 17, 1961, and the library was dedicated on August 10, 1962. The Civic Facilities Strategic Plan will include recommendations and options for library facilities in Hermosa Beach that include replacing the library at its existing site or relocating the library to the Community Center site. The City has also received funding from Los Angeles County to prepare a Library Needs Assessment. Civic Facilities Strategic Plan Scenarios The Civic Facilities Strategic Plan presents various scenarios for renovation and/or redevelopment of City facilities. Scenarios under consideration are described below. Scenario 1 • Replace library at existing site. • Create 2 -Company Fire Station to remain on Pier Avenue. • Close Bard Street. Create new parking structure. • Replace City Hall (include space for Fire Administration). • Build a modern police building at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. Scenario 2 • Relocate library to Community Center site. • Replace fire station as a headquarters fire station at Pier Avenue. • Build a modern police building at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Renovate and expand City Hall. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-2 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Scenario 3 • Relocate library to Community Center site. • Build a modern Public Safety Center at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Replace City Hall and locate it on Pier Avenue. • Develop a new parking structure. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. Scenario 4 • Relocate library to Community Center site. • Build a modern Public Safety Center at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Renovate and expand City Hall without Fire Administration. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. • Sell Pier Avenue frontage. Scenario 5 • Relocate library to Community Center site. • Build a modern Public Safety Center at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Relocate the City Hall functions to a leased or purchased existing office building on Pacific Coast Highway. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. • Sell Pier Avenue and Valley Drive corner property. Scenario 6 • Replace library at existing site. • Build a modern Public Safety Center at the adjacent storage site with basement parking. • Renovate and expand City Hall. • Replace the City Yard facilities at existing site with surface parking. The Civic Facilities Strategic Plan is meant to help prioritize and inform the capital improvement decisions and potential funding alternatives that the City will need to make regarding the future of the identified facilities. The improvement priorities are to focus on: • Furthering the City's Net Zero goals through the replacement and/or improvements of each of the identified facilities so that they are seismically, operationally, and functionally improved to continue to meet the needs of the City in the future. • Addressing the immediate need of replacing the City's Fire Station so that it is seismically improved to remain operational in the event of major disaster while improving the operational capability of the Fire Department to serve the expanding calls for service within the community. • Providing a resilient building which will be operational in the case of a major disaster and increase the operational efficiencies of the Police Department. Achieve this goal by providing a single seismically and operationally improved facility from which the department can deliver modern law enforcement services to the citizens of Hermosa Beach. • Increasing operational efficiencies of the Public Works Field Operations by providing replacement facilities, additional parking, and storage yard areas at the existing Yard Operations site. • Replacing or expanding City Hall to better accommodate the existing and future staff (scenarios presented at this time do not include growth assumptions). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-3 • • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • Developing the facilities in a manner that maximizes the use of the funds available through phasing options or changes in operations and also considers revenue generation sources. As noted above, several options/scenarios have been identified to improve existing City facilities. At the time this EIR was prepared, specific recommendations or project designs have not been determined, meaning that specific physical impacts to the environment cannot currently be identified. However, construction activities could result in impacts related to air quality (construction pollutant emissions), cultural resources (undiscovered resources), greenhouse gas emissions from construction, soil stability and erosion, construction water quality, accidental release of hazardous materials during construction, construction noise, and construction traffic impacts. Subsequent review of project -specific facility improvements would be completed to determine the extent of site-specific environmental review that will be required. These issues will be programmatically evaluated in the CEQA documentation for the Civic Facilities Strategic Plan. 4.13.2 FIRE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES 4.13.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Fire protection, first response emergency medical services, and natural disaster preparedness services in Hermosa Beach are provided by the Fire Department (HBFD). The HBFD also administers the City's Hazardous Material Plan and Emergency Preparedness Program and maintains the City's Emergency Operations Center. Key findings from the TBR (Appendix C-16) are summarized below. • The HBFD consists of one fire station with a total of 18 fire suppression personnel, one assistant fire chief, and one fire chief. Of the 18 fire suppression personnel, 16 have paramedic status. Three platoons rotate on a 48-hour schedule. The HBFD station, located on Pier Avenue, houses three fire engines (two front-line and one reserve) and two ambulances. • The HBFD has set an emergency medical services (EMS) response time standard of 5 minutes or less for 90 percent of incidents and a fire response time standard of 5 minutes 20 seconds or less for 90 percent of fire incidents. Excluding mutual aid calls, the average response time for EMS calls was 5.0 minutes, and the average response time for fire calls was 7.3 minutes. Ninety percent of EMS calls were responded to within 6.8 minutes, and 90 percent of fire calls were responded to within 10.8 minutes. • Regional communications and dispatch services are provided for the HBFD by the South Bay Regional Public Communications Authority, referred to locally as South Bay 911 or the Regional Call Center (RCC). The HBFD received 775 calls for mutual aid requests in other jurisdictions, of which 314 calls were cancelled (Center for Public Safety Management 2013a). • The City has automatic aid agreements with the Manhattan Beach Fire Department and the Redondo Beach Fire Department. This means that the dispatch of units to an incident is handled automatically by the dispatch center; the dispatch of additional units does not require the input of a commander on the scene. Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach have the same dispatch center, while Redondo Beach has its own dispatch center. The City of Hermosa Beach also has mutual aid agreements with the Torrance and El Segundo fire departments. Under the mutual aid agreement, units from the County, Torrance, and El Segundo could be dispatched to Hermosa Beach under the request of the commander on the scene. Likewise, units from Hermosa Beach could be requested to assist in those jurisdictions. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-4 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.2.2 REGULATORY SETTING Local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to fire protection and emergency medical services in the planning area. The regulatory framework for public services is discussed in detail in Appendix C-16. The following summarizes key regulations used to reduce the potential environmental impacts of implementing PLAN Hermosa. STATE • California Fire Code. The 2013 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9 of the California Code of Regulations) establishes regulations to safeguard against hazards of fire, explosion, or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures, and premises. The provisions of the Fire Code apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of every building or structure throughout California. The Fire Code includes regulations regarding fire -resistance -rated construction, fire protection systems such as alarm and sprinkler systems, fire services features such as fire apparatus access roads, means of egress, and fire safety during construction and demolition, • California Health and Safety Code. Additional state fire regulations are set forth in Sections 13000 et seq. of the California Health and Safety Code, which include regulations for building standards, fire protection and notification systems, fire protection devices such as extinguishers, smoke alarms, high-rise building and child-care facility standards, and fire suppression training. • California Occupational Safety and Health Administration. In accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Sections 1270, Fire Prevention, and 6773, Fire Protection and Fire Fighting Equipment, the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) has established minimum standards for fire suppression and emergency medical services. The standards include but are not limited to guidelines on the handling of highly combustible materials, fire hose sizing requirements, restrictions on the use of compressed air, access roads, and the testing, maintenance, and use of all firefighting and emergency medical equipment. LOCAL • Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The City's Municipal Code includes regulations and standards related to development and operations. Title 2, Administration and Personnel, contains bylaws and administration procedures for City advisory committees (including Parks, Recreation and Community Resources, Emergency Preparedness), commissions (including Planning Commission, Public Works Commission), and City departments or divisions (Police Department Traffic Division, Emergency Services, Police Reserve Corps). Title 15, Buildings and Construction, establishes building and construction standards to protect the public health, safety, and welfare through fire prevention, abatement of dangerous buildings, seismic strengthening, and enforcement of mechanical, plumbing, and electrical codes. Chapter 15.20 is the City's Fire Prevention Code, which prescribes regulations to ensure compliance with applicable state regulations. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-5 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.2.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standard of significance. For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on fire protection services and utilities are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Create substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered fire -related facilities or services, the construction and/or provision of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for fire protection and emergency services. ANALYSIS APPROACH Evaluation of potential fire protection and emergency medical service impacts was based on information provided by the Hermosa Beach Fire Department, as well as a review of the applicable fire codes and regulations, the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code, and other relevant literature. The focus of the analysis is whether implementation of PLAN Hermosa would require alteration of services that necessitates the development of facilities which could result in an impact to the physical environment. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address fire protection and emergency medical services: Policies Public Safety Element • 5.2 High level of response. Achieve optimal utilization of allocated public safety resources and provide desired levels of response and protection within the community. • 5.6 Adequate emergency access. Require new development to be designed to provide adequate emergency access and to maintain current levels of emergency services. • 5.7 Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions. Cooperate and collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and social services to maximize public safety and emergency services. • 6.1 Regularly update plans. Regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans, in a manner that is compliant with state and federal standards. Implementation Actions • SAFETY -1. Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate local amendments. • SAFETY -8. Support community safety and fire protection standards by establishing and applying the following development review requirements to be reviewed by HBFD and HBPD as appropriate: - New development and significant redevelopment projects shall coordinate with HBFD and Cal Water to provide and maintain adequate peak flow rates for firefighting. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-6 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES - New development, significant redevelopment, and public improvement projects shall ensure that building designs provide for adequate emergency access and that changes to the right-of-way do not impede access for emergency responder's apparatus or personnel. • SAFETY -20. Establish and meet EMS and Fire response time standard of 7 minutes or less for 90% of incidents. • SAFETY -22. Continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.2-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Fire Protection Services? Subsequent development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa could increase demand for fire protection services. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require that the City regularly update fire protection standards and new development to provide adequate fire flow and emergency access. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects that could result in 300 additional residential units and 660 new residents from 2015 to 2040 in the planning area, or an approximately 3 percent increase over existing conditions. The plan could also result in an additional 630,400 square feet of nonresidential uses. The additional structures and population would lead to increased demand for fire protection and emergency medical response services. Future development would be served by the Hermosa Beach Fire Department, or could be served by Redondo Beach Fire Department or Manhattan Beach Fire Department through the existing automatic aid agreement, if needed. As stated previously, the City has automatic aid agreements with the Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach fire departments. This means that dispatching units to an incident is handled automatically by the dispatch center, and dispatching additional units does not require the input of a commander on the scene. Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach have the same dispatch center, while Redondo Beach has its own dispatch center. The City of Hermosa Beach also has mutual aid agreements with the Torrance and El Segundo fire departments. Under the mutual aid agreement, units from the County, Torrance, and El Segundo could be dispatched to Hermosa Beach under the request of the commander on the scene. Likewise, units from Hermosa Beach could be requested to assist in those jurisdictions. PLAN Hermosa is designed for incremental changes in population through redevelopment that would allow for the adequate provision of services and community facilities. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would direct the provision of adequate facilities, staffing, equipment, and technology to meet existing and projected fire protection service demands and response times as demands grow with the increase in population. PLAN Hermosa addresses public service provision through Public Safety Element Policy 5.1, which would achieve optimal utilization of allocated public safety resources and provide desired levels of response and protection in the community. Policy 5.6 would require new development to be designed to provide adequate emergency access and to maintain current levels of emergency services. Policy 5.7 would ensure cooperation and collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions and social services to maximize public safety and emergency services. Policy 6.1 would require the City to regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans. Implementation action SAFETY -1 would serve to reduce potential impacts by continuing to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-7 4.13 PUBUC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACIUTIES, AND UTILITIES local amendments. SAFETY -22 would continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. SAFETY -8 would support community safety and fire protection standards by establishing and applying development review requirements. No additional facility needs that would trigger a physical impact to the environment are currently anticipated. Thus, this impact is Tess than significant. Additionally, subsequent projects that are consistent with the population, housing, and employment projections for PLAN Hermosa, and do not propose General Plan amendments, would not increase demand for fire protection services beyond those projected in the Civic Facilities Strategic Plan. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative context for impacts discussed below includes projected regional growth in the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area, as fire protection and emergency medical services may be required from beyond the City of Hermosa Beach planning area. IMPACT 4.13.2-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Cumulative Demand for Fire Protection Services? PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could increase the demand for fire protection and emergency medical services and could require additional staffing, equipment, and related facilities under cumulative conditions. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded fire protection and emergency medical services, the construction and operation of which could result in significant environmental impacts, would be less than cumulatively considerable. Development in Hermosa Beach that may result with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in addition to other cumulative development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could cause significant cumulative impacts on fire and emergency medical services. However, impacts related to fire protection and emergency medical services are generally specific to the planning area rather than regional. As indicated in Impact 4.13.2-1, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in the need for additional fire protection and emergency medical facilities. The City is in the process of determining fire facility improvements to maintain and improve its ability to provide services. The potential physical environmental effects of these improvements are identified in Impact 4.13.2-1. Further, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, along with compliance with the California Fire Code, would maintain adequate response times and staffing ratios within the city. Therefore, the City's contribution to cumulative environmental impacts associated with the continued provision of fire protection and emergency medical response services would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-8 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.3 LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES 4.13.3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Hermosa Beach Police Department (HBPD) provides police protection services to preserve peace and prevent crime and disorder by enforcing state laws and city ordinances in the planning area. Key findings from the TBR (Appendix C-16) are summarized below. STATIONS AND STAFFING The HBPD has one police station, located at 540 Pier Avenue. The department has 51 staff assigned to the station, consisting of 39 sworn personnel and 12 civilian staff. The HBPD consists of several distinct units to which officers are assigned. These units include detectives, traffic, patrol, backgrounds and training, internal affairs, Community Lead Program, and Narcotics K-9. The HBPD has 12 marked vehicles, 5 motorcycles, 10 unmarked vehicles, and 2 speed trailers (City of Hermosa Beach 2013b). According to the HBPD's Police Operations Report, which provided data on service level benchmarks, the City provides 178 officers per 100,000 residents (Center for Public Safety Management 2013b).' General patrol operations for the HBPD are staffed using 12 -hour shifts. Police are assigned to beach -related events including beach volleyball, concerts on the beach, the Surf Festival, the Hermosa Arts Fair, and the Hermosa Triathlon. The entire department is deployed on the two days of the year which draw the largest crowds—the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. CALLS FOR SERVICE Regional communications and dispatch services are provided for the HBPD by the South Bay 911 /RCC, which processes approximately 312,000 police and fire incidents annually in El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, and Manhattan Beach. Between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2015, HBPD officers handled 25,266 calls, which included officer -initiated calls. This averages approximately 69 calls per day. Of those calls, approximately 27 percent (6,784 calls) were initiated by the police and 73 percent (18,482 calls) were direct calls from the public. Approximately 19 percent of total calls for service (5,015) were for traffic enforcement. RESPONSE TIMES For HBPD response, the dispatch center assigns a priority code of 1 to 4 to each call, with 1 being the highest priority. For the one-year period between July 2014 and June 2015, the highest priority calls were responded to within 5.48 minutes (if calculated from call initiation to on scene) or 3.67 minutes from time of dispatch to on scene. CRIME RATES In 2014, Hermosa Beach reported 186 Part I violent crimes per 100,000 residents, or 37 crimes, and 2,732 Part I property crimes per 100,000 residents, or 543 crimes. The reported number of violent crimes was 53.04 percent lower than the statewide rate (396) and 49.06 percent lower than the national rate (366). Property crime rates were 11.92 percent higher than the state average (244) and 5.23 percent higher than the national average (2,596). 1 The number of officers per 100,000 reflects a normalized calculation for purposes of the operations report; it is not intended to represent the actual population in Hermosa Beach. The number of officers per 1,000 residents (1.78) is not a required service level or nationally recognized standard, and the existing ratio provides a reasonable baseline against which to estimate PLAN Hermosa impacts. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-9 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.3.2 REGULATORY SETTING LOCAL Local laws, regulations, and policies pertain to public safety and law enforcement services in the planning area. The regulatory framework for public services is discussed in detail in Appendix C-16. • Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The City's Municipal Code includes regulations and standards related to Health and Safety (Title 8), Public Peace, Morals and Welfare (Title 9), and Vehicle and Traffic (Title 10). 4.13.3.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standard of significance. A law enforcement services impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would: 1) Create 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 ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for law enforcement services. ANALYSIS APPROACH Evaluation of potential law enforcement impacts was based on information provided by the Hermosa Beach Police Department. The impact analysis focuses on whether those impacts would have a significant effect on the physical environment. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address law enforcement services: Policies Public Safety Element • 5.2 High level of response. Achieve optimal utilization of allocated public safety resources and provide desired levels of response and protection within the community. • 5.3 Use of technology. Provide and use smart surveillance technology and communication systems to improve crime prevention and inform the community regarding actions to take in case of emergency. • 5.4 Physical design standards. Reduce opportunities for criminal activity through physical design standards and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles. • 5.6 Adequate emergency access. Require new development to be designed to provide adequate emergency access and to maintain current levels of emergency services. • 5.7 Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions. Cooperate and collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and social services to maximize public safety and emergency services. • 5.8 Nuisance abatement. Encourage Police Department review of uses which may be characterized historically by high levels of nuisance (noise, nighttime patronage, and/or rates of criminal activity); providing for conditions of control of use to prevent adverse impacts on adjacent residences, schools, religious facilities, and similar "sensitive" uses. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-10 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • 6.1 Regularly update plans. Regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans, in a manner that is compliant with state and federal standards. Implementation Actions • SAFETY -21. Enhance and maintain Police Department staffing and facilities to meet established proactive time targets and clearance rates that exceed national averages. • SAFETY -22. Continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.3-1 Would PLAN Hermosa increase Demand for Law Enforcement Services? Subsequent development associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would result in an increase in population in the planning area, but it would not result in the need for additional and/or expanded police protection facilities. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the City to continue to provide adequate staffing, facilities, equipment, and technology to meet existing and projected service demands and response times. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects that would result in an increase in the city's population from 19,772 to 20,433 (a 3 percent increase). Assuming a ratio of 1.78 sworn officers per 1,000 residents, the HBPD would need approximately 36 sworn officers. The department currently has 39 sworn personnel; therefore, the increase in population with PLAN Hermosa would not require an increase in staffing beyond authorized levels that would require additional facility space, the construction or operation of which could result in significant environmental impacts. As previously noted, the City is currently considering improvements to police department facilities to address current needs and improve operations. No specific recommendations or designs have been established so that physical impacts to the environment can be identified. However, construction activities could result in impacts related to air quality (construction pollutant emissions), cultural resources (undiscovered resources), greenhouse gas emissions from construction, soil stability and erosion, construction water quality, accidental release of hazardous materials during construction, construction noise, and construction traffic impacts. These issues have been programmatically evaluated in this EIR. Subsequent review of project -specific facility improvements would be completed to determine the extent of site-specific environmental review that will be required. PLAN Hermosa is designed to allow incremental changes in population through redevelopment that would allow for the adequate provision of services and community facilities. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would direct the provision of adequate facilities, staffing, equipment, and technology to meet existing and projected police protection service demands and response times as demands grow with the increase in population. PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element policies would ensure adequate police protection is provided to accommodate a potential increase in the number of residents. Policy 5.1 would achieve optimal utilization of allocated public safety resources and provide desired levels of response and protection within the community. Policy 5.3 would provide and use up-to-date technology to improve crime prevention and inform the community regarding actions to take in case of emergency. Policy 5.4 would reduce opportunities for criminal activity through physical design standards, youth programs, recreation opportunities, educational programs, and counseling services. Policy 5.6 would require new development to be designed to provide City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-11 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES adequate emergency access and to maintain current levels of emergency services. Policy 5.7 would ensure cooperation and collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions and social services to maximize public safety and emergency services. Policy 5.8 would encourage Police Department review of uses which may be characterized historically by high levels of nuisance (noise, nighttime patronage, and/or rates of criminal activity), providing for conditions of control of use to prevent adverse impacts on adjacent residences, schools, religious facilities, and similar sensitive uses. Policy 6.1 would require the City to regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans. Implementation action SAFETY -22 would continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. SAFETY -21 would serve to reduce potential impacts by maintaining police department staffing and facilities to meet established proactive time targets and clearance rates that exceed national averages. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the City to continue to provide funding and adequate equipment, technology, and funding for the HBPD to meet existing and projected service demands and response times. PLAN Hermosa policies and programs would ensure that the City would meet increased demands for police protection associated with an increase in population. Additionally, an increase in population would not require an increase in staffing beyond authorized levels that would require additional facility space. Thus, this impact is less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. • CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative context for impacts discussed below includes projected regional growth in surrounding cities and in Los Angeles County, as law enforcement may be required from beyond the planning area. IMPACT 4.13.3-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Cumulative Demand for Law Enforcement Services? PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG service area, could increase the demand for law enforcement services and could require additional staffing, equipment, and facilities under cumulative conditions. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded law enforcement services facilities, the construction and operation of which could result in significant environmental impacts, would be less than cumulatively considerable. As discussed in Impact 4.13.3-1, PLAN Hermosa would not result in the need for additional law enforcement facilities. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the City to continue to provide funding and adequate staffing, facilities, equipment, and technology to meet existing and projected service demands and response times. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa would not contribute to a cumulative demand for law enforcement services facilities outside of the planning area. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the continued provision of law enforcement services in the cumulative setting would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-12 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.4 PUBLIC SCHOOLS 4.13.4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Hermosa Beach City School District (HBCSD) provides elementary school (K-8) public education to students living in the planning area. Table 4.13-1 (Hermosa Beach School Enrollment, 2014-2015) identifies schools located in the planning area and their enrollments for the 2014-2015 school year. In addition, there are two private schools: Our Lady of Guadalupe School is a private elementary school for grades preschool through 8, and Fusion Academy is an accredited, nontraditional private school for grades 6-12. TABLE 4.13-1 HERMOSA BEACH CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT ENROLLMENT, 2014-2015 School Grades Total Enrollment Hermosa View K-2 485 Hermosa Valley 3-8 991 Total 1,476 Source: CDE 2016 The current enrollment at Hermosa Valley and Hermosa View exceeds the permanent capacity at each school and will continue to exceed the permanent capacity over the next 10 years. The HBCSD has added portable classroom buildings and is using multipurpose rooms for temporary classrooms. The school district estimates an enrollment projection of over 1,600 students for 2022, which would result in additional capacity shortages. Senate Bill 837, if approved, would add Universal Transitional Kindergarten as a new grade, open to all 4 -year-olds throughout California's public school system. The district has indicated that Universal Transitional Kindergarten will have a serious impact on enrollment on an already overcrowded two -school district and could not be accommodated at the district's two schools alone. The HBCSD has prepared a Long Range Facilities Master Plan, which examines four options for providing additional classroom and recreational facility space. Option A would shift third -graders to Hermosa View. Options B, C, and D would involve the use of a third school (North School, which the district currently leases to a private preschool and the Redondo Beach Unified School District) in addition to the two existing schools (HBCSD 2014). During the June 2016 elections, voters approved School Bond Measure S that provides $59 million for funding improvements that include the construction of a new school on the site of North School, as well as renovations at Hermosa Valley School and Hermosa View School. As of the date of the release of this EIR, the district has not released an environmental review document related to these improvements. Assuming improvements would be implemented at the existing schools or in combination with the third school, the district would be responsible for preparing the necessary environmental review documents to identify environmental impacts that may occur as a result of improvements (e.g., new construction or remodeling/renovation) or operation (e.g., new vehicle trips to a third school). High school age residents attend either Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach (Manhattan Beach Unified School District) or Redondo Union High School in Redondo Beach (Redondo Beach Unified School District) (HBCSD 2009). In 2014-15, the enrollment at Mira Costa High School was 2,517 students (CDE 2016). Mira Costa High School has capacity for 3,477 students and projects enrollment in 2024 to be only slightly higher than current enrollment. In developing its facilities master plan, the Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) included forecasts for City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-13 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES enrollment based on HBCSD enrollment trends and other forecasting parameters, and the total (2,740) would not exceed capacity (MBUSD 2015). The Redondo Beach Unified School District (RBUSD) has two high schools, Redondo Union High School and Redondo Shores (a continuation school with less than 100 students). The combined enrollment for 2015-16 is 2,767, and the existing high school capacity is 3,088 students. The number of high school students is expected to exceed capacity by 2017-18. The RBUSD has also projected enrollment through 2035 and has determined the amount of facility space that will be necessary to accommodate future enrollments. The cost for facility improvements (currently projected to be five new classrooms [Redella 2016]) would be funded through developer fees in accordance with Senate Bill 50, as described below (RBUSD 2016). 4.13.4.2 REGULATORY SETTING The following state and local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to public schools in the planning area: STATE • California Education Code: The California Education Code contains various provisions governing the siting, design, and construction of new public schools (e.g., Education Code Sections 17211, 17212, and 17212.5). In addition, to help focus and manage the site selection process, the California Department of Education School Facilities and Planning Division has developed screening and ranking procedures based on criteria commonly affecting school selection (Education Code Section 17251 [b], Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 14001 [c]). The foremost consideration in the selection of school sites is safety. Certain health and safety requirements are governed by state statute and Education Code regulations. In selecting a school site, a school district should consider factors such as proximity to airports and railroads, proximity to high-voltage power transmission lines, presence of toxic and hazardous substances, and hazardous air emissions within one-quarter mile. • School Facility Fees: Education Code Section 17620 authorizes school districts to levy a fee, charge, dedication, or other requirement against any development project for the construction or reconstruction of school facilities, provided that the district can show justification for levying of fees. Government Code 65995 limits the fee to be collected to the statutory fee (Level I) unless a school district conducts a Facility Needs Assessment (Government Code Section 65995.6) and meets certain conditions. These fees are adjusted every two years in accordance with the statewide cost index for Class B construction, as determined by the State Allocation Board. • Senate Bill (SB) 50 (1998) instituted a new school facility program by which school districts can apply for state construction and modernization funds. This legislation imposed limitations on the power of cities and counties to require mitigation for school facility impacts as a condition of approving new development. Proposition 1A/SB 50 prohibits local agencies from using the inadequacy of school facilities as a basis for denying or conditioning approvals of any "legislative or adjudicative act, or both, involving, but not limited to, the planning, use, or development of real property" (Government Code Section 65996[b]). Additionally, a local agency cannot require participation in a Mello -Roos district for school facilities; however, the statutory fee is reduced by the amount of any voluntary participation in a Mello -Roos district. Satisfaction of the Proposition 1A/SB 50 statutory requirements by a developer is deemed to be "full and complete mitigation." • State Service Standards Affecting All Districts PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-14 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES - The California Education Code Section 41402 states that unified school districts are required to have 8 administrative employees per 100 teachers. State standards for the number of students per classroom pursuant to Chapter 407, Statutes of 1998 (loading standards), require a maximum of 25 students per classroom in elementary schools and 27 students per classroom in middle and high schools. 4.13.4.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standard of significance. A public schools impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would: 1) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered school facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for schools. ANALYSIS APPROACH Information for the analysis was obtained through a review of facilities master plans prepared by the school districts, which contain information about current and projected enrollment and school capacity and consultation with district staff. District planning documents project enrollments to the 2022-23 time frame, but they do not provide forecasts to 2040. The HBCSD does not use a student generation rate factor (HBCSD 2015). School enrollment data were obtained from the California Department of Education, Educational Demographics Unit (CDE 2016). PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following proposed PLAN Hermosa policies address public schools: Policies Land Use + Design Element • 7.3 School modernization upgrades. Support Hermosa Beach City School District plans to renovate and modernize school facilities to meet evolving educational needs in a manner that minimizes burdens to adjacent neighborhoods. • 7.6 Education impact fees. Coordinate with the school district(s) to assess and establish school impact fees paid by new development projects. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -5. Develop an inventory of underutilized or surplus property that may be appropriate for City or School District use or purchase to serve community education and recreational needs in the future. • MOBILITY -18. In conjunction with the Hermosa Beach City School District, the City will identify school access points, a proposed network, education and enforcement programs to provide a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Program. • PARKS -6. Continue, renew, and expand as needed, joint use agreements with the School District to allow community use of school fields and facilities. • PARKS -7. Partner with the School District, community groups, and neighboring communities to identify and apply for grant opportunities to maintain, enhance, and expand park and recreational opportunities. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-15 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.4-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Additional School Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in an increase in student enrollment in public schools. New or expanded school high school facilities would not be required, but the addition of K-8 students in the Hermosa Beach City School District would contribute to existing and future overcrowding in the district's two schools. The HBCSD has identified options for providing additional capacity to address existing and future enrollment, which would be required regardless of whether PLAN Hermosa is adopted and implemented. Payment of applicable fees in accordance with SB 50 would fully mitigate the impacts associated with the development of additional school facilities. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa could increase the city's population by 660 (3 percent) compared to existing conditions, which would result in additional students in the HBCSD and in the attendance areas of Mira Costa and Redondo Union high schools. The two schools in the HBCSD already have enrollments that exceed permanent classroom capacity. If all population growth were to occur in the near term, the additional students in the HBCSD would further contribute to existing overcrowding in the district's two schools and would add to future projected enrollment through 2023 that would exceed capacity. The overcrowded condition would exist regardless of whether PLAN Hermosa is adopted and implemented. However, exceeding school capacity in and of itself is not considered a physical impact under CEQA. The school district has developed a facilities plan identifying options for providing additional facility space and will address the need for expansion of school facilities or development of new school facilities. As noted above, School Bond Measure S provides $59 million for funding improvements that include the construction of a new school on the site of North School as well as renovations at Hermosa Valley School and Hermosa View School. As of the date of the release of this EIR, the HBCSD has not released an environmental review document related to these improvements. Potential environmental impacts from these school improvements include air quality (construction pollutant emissions), cultural resources (impacts to undiscovered resources during construction), greenhouse gas emissions from construction and operation, soil stability and erosion, construction and operational water quality, accidental release of hazardous materials during construction, construction, traffic and operational noise, and traffic impacts from construction traffic, operational traffic and potential safety conflicts with pedestrian and bicycle use. Future projects developed under PLAN Hermosa would be required to pay applicable fees consistent with SB 50. The addition of PLAN Hermosa population to existing enrollment at Mira Costa High School would not result in enrollment levels that would exceed capacity; however, it would contribute to projected capacity exceedance at Redondo Union High School California Government Code Section 65995 specifies that the environmental impact of new development on school facilities is considered fully mitigated through the payment of required development impact fees under SB 50. All new development proposed and approved, including any future development allowed by PLAN Hermosa, would be required to pay applicable development impact fees. Furthermore, any significant expansion of school facilities or development of new school facilities would be subject to the appropriate CEQA environmental review prepared by the respective school districts, which would identify and address any site- specific impacts. Therefore, this impact would be Tess than significant. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-16 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES School facilities impacts are associated with a specific district, each of which defines its own attendance boundaries. Although a school may have an attendance boundary that encompasses more than one jurisdiction, the cumulative effect would be limited to the district itself. Thus, the cumulative context for impacts discussed below is the HBCSD for grades K-8 and the Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach unified school districts for grades 9-12. IMPACT 4.13.4-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Increase Demand for Schools? Population growth associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Hermosa Beach City Unified School District, Manhattan Beach Unified School District, and Redondo Beach Unified School District, could result in a cumulative increase in student enrollment, which could result in the need for new or expanded public school facilities. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for new or expanded school facilities would be less than cumulatively considerable. Cumulative development in the three districts would result in increased enrollments. For the HBCSD, the increase would only be attributable to PLAN Hermosa because the district's attendance boundary corresponds to the city jurisdictional boundary. There would be no additional impact beyond that described in Impact 4.13.4-1, which was determined to be less than significant. It would be speculative for the City to forecast 2040 enrollments for all high schools in the districts because the schools are not operated by the City, and the City is not involved in school planning. Further, enrollments may fluctuate on a short-term basis, based on changes to demographic and economic conditions. For the two high school districts, student enrollment projections are not available for 2040. The City has relied on enrollment projections provided by the school districts and has disclosed publicly available information. However, it is reasonable to assume that future enrollments in 2040 in the two school districts will be a function of population changes and changes to land use plans which may increase population. Using projections developed by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) for Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach combined, there would be an additional 8,800 people and 4,800 households, respectively over the next 25 years. This growth can be expected to increase enrollment in the high schools. (Students from outside these cities may also attend high schools in the districts, though they would not represent a substantial portion of enrollment.) PLAN Hermosa's contribution to combined population and household growth of the three -city area would represent approximately 6 percent. New or expanded facilities that the individual districts may determine are necessary to accommodate students by 2040 would be subject to environmental review and any necessary mitigation, which would be the responsibility of the school districts, and the cities would levy SB 50 fees for such development. Based on the foregoing, and given the provisions of SB 50, PLAN Hermosa's contribution to cumulative impacts on the need for new or expanded school facilities is less than cumulatively considerable. If a new or expanded high school facility is later determined by either the MBUSD or the RBUSD to be required to accommodate student enrollment conditions in the year 2040 and beyond, it could result in physical environmental effects associated with construction (e.g., air quality, special - status species and habitats, cultural resources, geological resources, greenhouse gases, water City of Hermosa Beach • PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-17 • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES quality and drainage, noise) as well as operational impacts (e.g., air quality, greenhouse gases, water quality, land use, noise, public services and utilities), depending on the location of the new facilities. Because those improvements are not known, it would be speculative to determine the exact extent of those impacts, if any, at this time. Additional evaluation is not required, as provided under CEQA Guidelines Section 15145 pertaining to speculation. Mitigation Measures None required. 4.13.5 PARKS AND RECREATION 4.13.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-16 describes the regional and local conditions related to parks and recreation in Hermosa Beach. Key findings of the environmental setting are presented below. PARK FACILITIES The City owns, operates, and maintains many developed park and recreation facilities providing green space, picnic facilities, a skateboard park, tennis courts, lawn bowling, and space for sporting events, as well as a community garden. The Strand and the Greenbelt offer city -long paths. Following a ballot initiative (Measure 0 in 1986), voter approval is required for redesignation of parkland designated Open Space in the General Plan to any other use. The Hermosa Beach Community Resources Department administers the City's recreation programs, which offer a variety of recreational activities for participants of all ages, and facilitates • the rental of City facilities for private events. Figure 4.13-1 (Parks and Public Facilities) identifies locations of public services and spaces in the planning area, including parks. Three facilities— Valley Park, Clark Stadium, and South Park—support activities and sport leagues for both youth and adult participants. Clark Stadium also includes space for lawn bowling. The Clark Building, located at 861 Valley Drive, has a multipurpose hall and lighted sports fields. A farmers market is held at South Park and at Pier Plaza. South Park, located at 425 Valley Drive, includes lawn areas, a play area, and a community garden. Hermosa Beach includes approximately 42.3 acres of parkland and 63.4 acres of public beaches (see Table 4.13-2 [Parks and Community Facilities in Hermosa Beach]). The City does not have an established goal or standard for open space or parkland. With 19,772 residents in 2015 and 105.7 acres of accessible open space or parkland in Hermosa Beach, the City provides approximately 5.3 acres of parkland and public beaches per 1,000 residents. This ratio is above the goal or standard of 4 acres set by many cities in Los Angeles County and above the standard of 3 acres per 1,000 residents required under the Quimby Act. The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt/Trail, located between Valley Drive and Ardmore Avenue, runs the length of the planning area and connects to Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach. The Greenbelt provides a walking and jogging trail. Also located in the planning area are Ardmore Park (491 Ardmore Avenue) and Bicentennial Park (Valley Drive and 4th Street). The Community Center and Hermosa Beach Community Theater are located at 710 Pier Avenue, at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Pier Avenue. This complex includes a community center with meeting rooms, senior center, large and small theaters, gymnasium, skate park, tennis courts, and the Hermosa Beach Museum. The P.A.R.K. (Positive Active Recreation for Kids) Program is an after-school program offered at the Hermosa Beach Community Center and South Park for Hermosa Beach residents, emphasizing active recreation for children in first through eighth grades. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-18 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES TABLE 4.13-2 PARKS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES IN HERMOSA BEACH Source: City of Hermosa Beach 20156 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-19 . Park Name Address Park Type Size (acres) 1 Shaffer Park Ingleside Ave & 33rd Place Parkette <0.1 2 Valley Park Valley Dr & Gould Ave Park 8.8 3 Valley Greenbelt Trail/Open Space 19 4 Sea View Park Prospect Ave & 19th St Park 0.3 5 Scout Parkette Prospect Ave & 14th St Parkette <0.1 6 Greenwood Park PCH & Aviation Blvd Park 0.5 7 Fort Lots -o -Fun Prospect Ave & 6th St Park 0.2 8 Edith Rodaway Friendship Park Prospect Ave Park 0.8 9 Oceanview Parkette 3rd St Parkette <0.1 10 Moondust Parkette 2nd St Parkette <0.1 11 City Beach, Strand Pier Trail/Open Space 63.4 12 Noble Park 1400 The Strand Park 0.8 13 Clark Stadium/Lawn Bowling Green 861 Valley Dr Park 6.6 14 8th & Valley Parkette 8th St & Valley Dr Parkette <0.1 15 South Park 425 Valley Dr Park 4.5 16 Ardmore Park 491 Ardmore Park Park 0.2 17 Bicentennial Park Valley Dr & 4th St Park 0.4 18 Kay Etow Parkette Herondo St Parkette <0.1 19 Seawright Sandhill Parkette Manhattan Ave & Loma Dr Parkette < 0.1 Total 1053 Facility Name Address Park Type Size (acres) 20 Hermosa Beach Community Center 710 Pier Ave Community Center 4.8 21 View School 1800 Prospect Ave School 4.6 22 Valley School 1645 Valley Dr School 8.8 23 North School 417 25th St School 1.8 24 Prospect Avenue Building 1006 6th St Public Building 0.2 Total 20.2 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 20156 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-19 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 3 titi FIGURE 4.13-1 PARKS AND PUBLIC FACILITIES � jj .0 2 city coastal zone. / r hermosa beach parks + public facilities shaffer park 13 valley park valley greenbelt 1_ 7 Em sea view park scout parkette n?; greenwood park ET fort lots -of -fun park edith rodaway park oceanview parkette moondust parkette city beach, strand, pier noble park dark stadium 1 tEa 8th + valley parkette •13 south park \t Fri ardmore park bi-centennial park Le"kay etow parkette __r�,s: W seawright sandhill parkette Ws -2aT___.i� view school 7i-,----:66 _ 1--_.-� 8J valley school f4 ``--- north school prospect ave building community center + skate park 18 - rrt 403' 'Co. It=== o•' 1. N PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-20 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES LIFEGUARD AND BEACH MANAGEMENT The City of Hermosa Beach owns 63.4 acres of public beaches, including 1.8 miles of shoreline and the Hermosa Pier. With annual beach attendance of 3.8 million visitors in fiscal year 2010-11, ocean protection and lifeguard services are important public services to protect public safety along the city's beaches and coastal areas. The City contracts with the Los Angeles County Fire Department's Lifeguard Division for these services. The Lifeguard Division consists of 150 full-time and 700 seasonal lifeguards throughout Los Angeles County. The Lifeguard Division operates out of four sectional headquarters, one of which is located in Hermosa Beach. The Hermosa Beach sectional headquarters staffs a 24-hour emergency medical technician response unit and is connected to the 911 system. BEACHES Hermosa Beach is known for its beach, surfing, and The Strand, a paved path that parallels the beach, connecting Hermosa Beach to neighboring beach cities. The City owns the wide beach that runs the length of the planning area and serves both locals and visitors. The Strand is also part of the statewide California Coastal Trail system. As a beach community, Hermosa Beach experiences a high visitor population. During fiscal year 2010-11, monthly beach attendance ranged from a low of 94,300 in December 2010 to a high of 939,000 in July 2010 (Los Angeles County Fire Department 2012). Total beach attendance in fiscal year 2010-11 was up 18.5 percent from fiscal year 2009-10 to 3,763,700. The total number of residents and visitors on a weekday afternoon is 48,600 people, approximately 2.5 times the total city population. On a weekday evening, the number is just over 60,000 people, and on a weekend afternoon, approximately 108,000 people, or 5.5 times the total city population. Most of the visitors come from 10 miles away or less (Fehr & Peers 2014). The Hermosa Pier is 1,228 feet long and offers year-round fishing. The pier contains the Surfer's Walk of Fame, where surfing legends from Hermosa Beach are commemorated with bronze plaques embedded in the pier's walking surface. In addition to surfing, recreational beach activities include volleyball, skating and skateboarding, jogging, and bicycling. Special events throughout the year are primarily focused on the beach, the adjacent Pier Plaza, and the Downtown area. 4.13.5.2 REGULATORY SETTING The following state and local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to public services and recreation in the planning area. STATE • Quimby Act: As part of approval of a final tract or parcel map, the Quimby Act allows a city to require dedication of land, the payment of in -lieu fees, or a combination of both to be used for the provision of parks and recreational services. Cities can require land or in - lieu fees for a minimum of 3 acres per 1,000 residents, with the possibility of increasing the requirement to a maximum of 5 acres per 1,000 residents if the city already provides more than 3 acres per 1,000 residents. • California Coastal Act: The California Coastal Act of 1976 and the California Coastal Commission, the state's coastal protection and planning agency, were established by voter initiative in 1972 to plan for and regulate new development, and create strong policies to protect public access to and along the shoreline. To ensure that maximum public access to the coast and public recreation areas is provided, the Coastal Act directs each local government lying within the Coastal Zone to prepare a Local Coastal Program City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-21 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES (LCP) consistent with Section 30501 of the Coastal Act, in consultation with the Coastal Commission and with public participation. Provisions of the Coastal Act related to public services, utilities, and recreation are summarized below. Until an LCP has been adopted by the local jurisdiction and certified compliant with the Coastal Act, the Coastal Commission retains permitting authority within the local jurisdiction. A coastal development permit is required for development in the Coastal Zone that results in changes to the density or intensity of the use of land, changes in water use, and impacts to coastal access. - Section 30210. Access; recreational opportunities; posting. In carrying out requirements of Section 4 of Article X of the California Constitution, maximum access, which shall be conspicuously posted, and recreational opportunities shall be provided for all of the people consistent with public safety needs and the need to protect public rights, rights of private property owners, and natural resource areas from over use. - Section 30212.5. Public Facilities; distribution. Wherever appropriate and feasible, public facilities, including parking areas or facilities, shall be distributed throughout an area so as to mitigate against the impacts, social and otherwise, of overcrowding or overuse by the public of any single area. - Section 30221. Oceanfront land; protection for recreational use and development. Oceanfront land suitable for recreational use shall be protected for recreational use and development unless present and foreseeable future demand for public or commercial recreational activities that could be accommodated on the property is already adequately provided for in the area. - Section 30252, Maintenance and enhancement of public access. The location and amount of new development should maintain and enhance public access to the coast by (1) facilitating the provision or extension of transit service, (2) providing commercial facilities within or adjoining residential development or in other areas that will minimize the use of coastal access roads, (3) providing nonautomobile circulation within the development, (4) providing adequate parking facilities or providing substitute means of serving the development with public transportation, (5) assuring the potential for public transit high intensity uses such as high-rise office buildings, and by (6) assuring that the recreational needs of new residents will not overload nearby coastal recreation areas by correlating the amount of development with local park acquisition and development plans with the provision of on-site recreational facilities to serve the new development. LOCAL • Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The City's Municipal Code includes regulations and standards related to development and operations. Title 12, Street, Sidewalks and Public Places, establishes development and operations standards for public spaces in the planning area (e.g., parks, sidewalks, the beach). • Hermosa Beach Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan: The Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan was adopted in 1990 and provides guidance for the management and orderly development of parks, recreation, and open space facilities and programs in Hermosa Beach. The plan identifies the long-term goals of the community to be a steward of existing park and recreational spaces, provide recreational resources, programs, and activities, and promote preservation and interpretation of historical resources, cultural resources, and natural environments. These goals are supported by specific policies associated with parkland acquisition, classification of parklands, design and development standards, program and service policies, operation and maintenance objectives, and economic performance policies. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-22 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • Hermosa Beach Local Coastal Program: The LCP consists of the Coastal Land Use Plan (general plan -level policies and maps) and a Local Implementation Program (coastal zoning code, zoning maps, and implementing ordinances). The Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan component, adopted by the City and certified by the California Coastal Commission in 1981, addresses public access and recreation considerations in the Coastal Zone. The Local Implementation Program of the LCP has not yet been certified and therefore the City does not have a certified LCP. The Coastal Commission retains the authority to review and issue coastal development permits in the Coastal Zone. The Coastal Land Use Plan includes a statement of philosophy and supporting goals, policies, and programs to "maintain [Hermosa Beach's] current high level of recreational access to the coast and its recreational facilities to be consistent with maintaining the beach in its most natural state" by maximizing access, maintaining availability of low-cost visitor facilities, and establishing and enforcing building and development standards with priority for recreational and visitor -serving uses. 4.13.5.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standards of significance. A parks and recreation impact is significant if implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated. 2) Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment. ANALYSIS APPROACH Evaluation of PLAN Hermosa was based on review of the current facilities, the City's Municipal Code, and other relevant literature. This material was compared to the proposed project's specific parks and recreation service -related impacts. The impact analysis below focuses on whether those impacts would have a significant effect on the physical environment. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following proposed PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address parks and recreation facilities and services: Policies Parks + Open Space Element • 1.1 Facility upgrades. Improve and update park and open space facilities on a regular basis. • 1.2 Lighting and visibility. Provide appropriate lighting and visibility within park facilities while avoiding adverse impacts to adjacent properties. • 1.3 CPTED principles. Utilize "Crime Prevention through Environmental Design" (CPTED) principles in the design and renovation of new and existing parks and open space facilities. • 1.4 Low -maintenance design. Promote environmentally sustainable and low -maintenance design principles in the renovation, addition, or maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-23 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • 2.1 Diverse programs and facilities. Offer diverse recreational facilities to meet the needs of seniors, youth, families, and persons with disabilities. • 2.2 Park fees. Require new discretionary development to contribute fees, consistent with State law, for expanded park space when publicly accessible open space is not provided on-site. • 2.3 Creative parks and open space. Encourage creativity and innovation the development and provision of additional open space or parks, rooftop gardens, and park space integrated into parking structures. • 2.4 Park expansion opportunities. Consider the purchase or re -use of City -owned surplus property to create additional parks and open space as opportunities arise to expand existing parks or create new parks. • 2.5 Shared use agreements. Work with adjacent jurisdictions, the school district, and private facilities to offer recreational opportunities or activities not available at Hermosa Beach facilities. • 3.1 Community -friendly events. Encourage, permit, and support community group, non- profit, or business organized events on City property that support physical activity, beach culture, and family -friendly social interactions. • 3.2 Social and cultural events. Design and program parks and open space to accommodate unique social and cultural events to foster connectedness and interaction. • 3.3 Commercial use of facilities. Regulate and enforce commercial use of City parks and open spaces to ensure activities do not impact general use and enjoyment. • 3.4 Balance space needs. Balance the space needs and demand on public resources of formal and informal events. • 3.5 Health and physical activity. Increase the availability of space and activities that promote community health and physical activity such as community gardens, fitness stations/equipment, and fields/courts. • 4.1 Close proximity to parks. Provide a variety and distribution of parks, open space, and recreational facilities to ensure close proximity and easy access to all residents. • 4.2 Enhanced access points. Increase and enhance access to parks and open space, particularly across major thoroughfares, as well as access points that promote physical activity such as pedestrian- and bike -oriented access points. • 4.3 Safe and efficient trail network. Develop a network of safe and efficient trails, streets, and paths that connect residents, visitors, and neighboring communities to the beach, parks, and activity centers. • 4.4 ADA accessible park access. Install ADA and universally accessible amenities and equipment so that all parks; beach, and trail networks are accessible to all persons. Implementation Actions • LAND USE -5. Develop an inventory of underutilized or surplus property that may be appropriate for City or School District use or purchase to serve community education and recreational needs in the future. • MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. • PARKS -1. Conduct needs assessments and evaluate recreational program offerings to ensure community needs and priorities are being met. Conduct regular updates to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-24 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • PARKS -2. Conduct periodic assessments of public facilities and maintain a list of priority replacement or new facilities projects. • PARKS -3. Establish parks level of service and level of access standards to prioritize the development, upgrade, and renovation of parks and open space facilities. • PARKS -4. Update City standards and fees related to the provision of parks and open space and sustainable funding source for providing high quality and well maintained facilities. • PARKS -5. Where appropriate, construct parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities at street ends as they intersect with The Strand. • PARKS -6. Continue, renew, and expand as needed, joint use agreements with the School District to allow community use of school fields and facilities. • PARKS -7. Partner with the School District, community groups, and neighboring communities to identify and apply for grant opportunities to maintain, enhance, and expand park and recreational opportunities. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.5-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Additional Park Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase demand for parks and recreation services. Existing park acreage would continue to meet the Quimby Act standard of 3 acres per 1,000 residents. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would require the provision of new parks and recreation facilities and ongoing parkland maintenance to prevent deterioration of existing facilities. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Impacts to Existing Facilities An increase in population resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa may place greater demands on existing parks or recreational facilities in the planning area such that deterioration of these facilities could occur or be accelerated. Development consistent with PLAN Hermosa would result in about 660 new residents, a 3 percent increase in potential park users. PLAN Hermosa Parks + Open Space Element policies and implementation actions would ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are provided to accommodate the anticipated increase in new residents. Policy 2.1 would offer diverse recreational facilities to meet the needs of seniors, youth, families, and persons with disabilities. Policy 2.4 would consider the purchase of property to create additional parks and open space as opportunities arise to expand existing parks or create new parks. Policy 1.1 would improve and update park and open space facilities on a regular basis. In addition, implementation actions would ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are provided to accommodate the anticipated increase in new residents. PARKS -6 would serve to reduce potential impacts by continuing, renewing, and expanding as needed, joint use agreements with the school district to allow community use of school fields and facilities. Potential Need for New Facilities The planning area includes approximately 42 acres of parkland and 63 acres of public beaches (see Table 4.13-2). Hermosa Beach does not have an established goal or standard for open space or parkland. With 19,772 residents in 2015 and 105.7 acres of accessible open space or parkland in Hermosa Beach, the City provides approximately 5.3 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. This ratio is above the goal of 4 acres per 1,000 residents set by many cities in Los Angeles County and above the standard of 3 acres per 1,000 residents required under the Quimby Act. With PLAN Hermosa, the ratio would be approximately 5.2 acres per 1,000 residents. Although there would City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-25 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACIUTIES, AND UTIUTIES be a decrease, the ratio would remain above the Quimby Act standard. The existing parkland in the city is adequate, as it currently exceeds the amount of parkland required by the Quimby Act. The adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa and the associated increase in population would not trigger the need for new parks. Therefore, there would not be physical impacts resulting from the creation of new or expanded parks or park facilities. PLAN Hermosa Parks + Open Space Element policies and implementation actions would ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are provided to accommodate the anticipated increase in new residents. Policy 1.1 would improve and update park and open space facilities on a regular basis. Policy 2.1 would offer diverse recreational facilities to meet the needs of seniors, youth, families, and persons with disabilities. Policy 2.2 would require new discretionary development to contribute fees, consistent with state law, for expanded park space when publicly accessible open space is not provided on-site. Policy 2.4 would consider the purchase of property to create additional parks and open space as opportunities arise to expand existing parks or create new parks. In addition, implementation actions would ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are provided to accommodate the anticipated increase in new residents. PARKS -9 would install accessible walkways onto the beach while minimizing or avoiding negative effects on the aesthetics and ecology of the beach environment. PARKS -6 would serve to reduce potential impacts by continuing, renewing, and expanding as -needed, joint -use agreements with the school district to allow community use of school fields and facilities. Implementation of the above proposed policy provisions could result in environmental impacts associated with construction (e.g., air quality, special -status species and habitats, cultural resources, geological resources, greenhouse gases, water quality and drainage, noise) as well as operational impacts (e.g., air quality, greenhouse gases, water quality, land use, noise, public services and utilities) depending on the location of new recreation facilities. This EIR programmatically evaluates development and improvements in the city associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Subsequent review of project -specific park projects would be completed to determine the extent of site-specific environmental review that will be required. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would maintain existing parks and recreation facilities for residents, including maintenance to prevent deterioration of existing parks. Therefore, impacts on parks and recreation facilities and services would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative setting for parks impacts includes existing, approved, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable development in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG) planning area. IMPACT 4.13.5-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Increase Demand for Parks and Recreation Facilities? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, along with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, could increase the use of existing parks and require additional park and recreation facilities in the cumulative setting, the provision of which could have an adverse physical effect on the environment. However, PLAN Hermosa would continue to provide adequate parks and recreation facilities within the city to accommodate existing and future demand and would not result in the need to construct new or expanded facilities. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-26 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Development in Hermosa Beach that may result with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa, as well as development in nearby cities in the South Bay Cities COG planning area, would increase the population of the area, thereby potentially increasing the need for additional or expanded parkland and recreational facilities. Residents of other cities or unincorporated areas lacking in parkland or recreation facilities may travel to an adjacent city to use such facilities, thereby increasing the use and furthering deterioration of those facilities, or resulting in the need for new or expanded facilities. However, PLAN Hermosa would not contribute to this potential impact because there would be sufficient parks and community facilities in the city to serve the future population, as indicated in Impact 4.13.5-1. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa would have a less than cumulatively considerable impact on parks and regional recreation facilities and services. Mitigation Measures None required. 4.13.6 LIBRARY FACILITIES 4.13.6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Hermosa Beach Public Library, operated by the County of Los Angeles Public Library, is 6,496 square feet and contains six public computers, two children's computers, two early literacy computers, and free Wi-Fi. The library has a children's area, teen space, and a book drop that is accessible 24 hours. The online collection and research tools are available 24 hours a day. 4.13.6.2 REGULATORY SETTING No federal, state, and local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to library services in the planning area. 4.13.6.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standard of significance. A library impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would: 1) 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 ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for library services. ANALYSIS APPROACH The analysis of library impacts is based on information presented in the Technical Background Report about existing library conditions and a qualitative assessment as to whether the approximately 3 percent increase in city population would result in the need for new or expanded library facilities. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa does not include policies or implementation actions addressing library services. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.6-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Additional Library Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for library services. However, the City City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-27 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES would not need to expand or construct library facilities to meet recommended standards. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. With the slight increase in population (around 3 percent over 20 years) and new development and redevelopment anticipated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, minimal additional demands would be placed on library services. The. Hermosa Beach Public Library is 6,496 square feet and contains multiple public computers. Development consistent with PLAN Hermosa would not induce population growth that would require the provision of additional library space. Additionally, the City, in conjunction with Los Angeles County, has initiated a community needs assessment to determine the physical space and service offerings needed to adequately serve the community of Hermosa Beach. The impact would be Tess than significant. As noted above, the City is considering improvements to the library. No specific recommendations or designs have been established so that specific physical impacts to the environment can be identified. However, construction activities could result impacts related to air quality (construction pollutant emissions), cultural resources (undiscovered resources), greenhouse gas emissions from construction, soil stability and erosion, construction water quality, accidental release of hazardous materials during construction, construction noise, and construction traffic impacts. These issues have been programmatically evaluated in this EIR. Subsequent review of project -specific facility improvements would be completed to determine the extent of site-specific environmental review that will be required. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES Although there is no defined boundary for cumulative impacts to library facilities, residents of a city lacking in library facilities may travel to an adjacent city to use such facilities, thereby increasing the use and furthering deterioration of those facilities. Development in Hermosa Beach that may result with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa, as well as existing, approved, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable development in nearby cities in Los Angeles County, would increase the population of the area, thereby increasing the need for additional or expanded library facilities. IMPACT 4.13.6-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Increase Demand for Library Facilities? Population growth associated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the cumulative setting, would not result in a cumulative increase in demand for library services. This would be less than cumulatively considerable impact. With the slight increase in population and new development and redevelopment anticipated with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, minimal additional demands would be placed on library services. Additionally, while future growth in nearby cities could also result in use of the Hermosa Beach Library, the library, as well as all public libraries in the county, are operated by the Los Angeles County Public Library. The Los Angeles County library system has over 90 public libraries. A cumulative increase in use at these facilities may in fact result in a need for new or expanded facilities. However, as discussed in Impact 4.13.6-1, the Hermosa Beach Public Library would have adequate space for additional demands with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Therefore, cumulative impacts on library facilities would be Tess than cumulatively significant. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-28 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Mitigation Measures None required. 4.13.7 WATER SUPPLY AND SERVICE; WASTEWATER SERVICE; STORM DRAINAGE 4.13.7.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-16 describes the regional and local conditions related to water supply, wastewater, and drainage in Hermosa Beach. Key findings of the environmental setting are presented below. WATER Hermosa Beach is located in the California Water Service Company's (Cal Water) Hermosa - Redondo District. The service area encompasses the cities of Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach and a portion of Torrance. The district supplies are a combination of surface water, groundwater, and recycled water. Purchased water from the West Basin Municipal Water District (WBMWD), one of 27 member agencies of the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California, satisfies 85 to 90 percent of the district's water demand. The MWD operates five water treatment plants. The Robert B. Diemer Treatment Plant, which provides treated surface water to coastal Los Angeles County and areas of Orange County, has a treatment capacity of 520 million gallons per day. Groundwater extracted from the West Coast Basin Silverado aquifer comprises 10 to 15 percent of the district's water demand. Cal Water's adjudicated right of the safe yield of the groundwater basin is 4,070 acre-feet per year (afy). However, Cal Water does not currently have the ability to sustain production and delivery of this quantity and only normally produces approximately 2,000 afy. Recycled water generally makes up approximately 1 percent of the total water supplied to customers in the district (Cal Water 2011). Cal Water has an Imported Water Purchase Agreement with the WBMWD. The agreement establishes base, tier allocations, and purchase commitment requirements. Under the latest agreement, Cal Water's Tier 1 maximum allocation is 70,000 afy. The Hermosa -Redondo District shares in the combined allocations with three other Cal Water service districts. The Hermosa - Redondo allocation is 16,800 afy. Table 4.13-3 (Hermosa -Redondo District Water Supply and Demand 2010 through 2040) summarizes water supply sources and demand for the period 2010 through 2040, as presented in the district's 2010 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP). The 2010 UWMP estimated future water demand for the service area through 2040 based on district -estimated population and a per capita demand factor.2 Groundwater and recycled water are available in all hydrologic years in the amounts shown in Table 4.13-3. As demand increases, Cal Water purchases water from the WBMWD to provide the balance of supply to meet customer demands. As shown, as demand increases, the supply is adjusted to meet the demand. Cal Water has determined that no supply deficiencies are expected and supplies will be reliable for its service area through the planning horizon of the 2010 UWMP under normal year, single dry -year, and multiple dry -year scenarios (Cal Water 2011). 2 Specific demand by jurisdiction is not identified in the UWMP. The UWMP also compared its projections to population estimates for 2035 developed by SCAG. At the time the 2010 UWMP was prepared, the 2008 RTP was the most current adopted growth forecast, and the service area population was forecast at approximately 102,000. Based on draft 2016 RTP projections, the service area population for 2040 (which includes PLAN Hermosa) would be 102,790. However, the 2010 UWMP reflects the higher population developed by the district for projecting population -based water demand. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-29 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES TABLE 4.13-3 HERMOSA-REDONDO DISTRICT SUPPLY AND DEMAND, 2010-2040 (ACRE-FEET PER YEAR Supply and Demand 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 Supply and Demand Comparison - Normal Year WBMWD 10,850 10,291 10,680 11,080 11,489 11,910 Groundwater 3,500 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 Recycled 155 159 162 166 169 173 Total Supply 14,506 14,519 14,912 15,315 15,728 16,152 Total Demand 14,506 14,519 14,912 15,315 15,728 16,152 Supply and Demand Comparison - Single Dry Year WBMWD 11,304 10,475 11,147 11,559 11,981 12,415 Groundwater 3,500 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 Recycled 155 159 162 166 169 173 Total Supply 14,960 14,974 15,379 15,795 16,221 16,658 Total Demand 14,960 14,974 15,379 15,795 16,221 16,658 Supply and Demand Comparison - Multiple Dry Year 1 WBMWD 10,200 9,640 10,011 10,393 10,784 - Groundwater 3,500 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 - Recycled 155 159 162 166 169 - Total Supply 13,855 13,868 14,244 14,628 15,023 - Total Demand 13,855 13,868 14,244 14,628 15,023 - Supply and Demand Comparison - Multiple Dry Year 2 WBMWD 10,350 9,862 10,240 10,626 11,024 - Groundwater 3,500 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 - Recycled 156 159 163 166 170 - Total Supply 14,006 14,092 14,472 14,863 15,264 - Total Demand 14,006 14,092 14,472 14,863 15,264 - Supply and Demand Comparison - Multiple Dry Year 3 WBMWD 9,710 9,288 9,649 10,021 10,401 - Groundwater 3,500 4,070 4,070 4,070 4,070 - Recycled 157 160 163 166 171 - Total Supply 13,367 13,518 13,883 14,258 14,642 - Total Demand 13,367 13,518 13,883 14,258 14,642 - 2010 UWMP Population Projections District Estimated Total Service Area Population 99,050 101,740 104,500 107,320 110,230 113,200 Not projected in 2010 UWMP Source: Cal Water 2011, Table 2.2-2, Tables 5.2-4 through 5.2-6 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-30 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES WASTEWATER The City of Hermosa Beach provides wastewater collection services in the planning area. The sanitary sewer system network comprises approximately 37 miles of sewer lines. Much of the system is believed to have been installed in the late 1920s, although confirmation of this is difficult. The majority of the original system is concrete, with recent replacements of clay pipe. The system is primarily a gravity flow system, with the exception of two pump stations. The effluent collected by sewer lines is discharged into the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (LACSD) trunk lines, which flow north -northwesterly toward Manhattan Beach (City of Hermosa Beach 2011 b). The LACSD trunk lines flow to the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant (JWPCP), located in Carson. The JWPCP is one of the largest wastewater plants in the world and is the largest of the LACSD wastewater treatment plants. The facility provides both primary and secondary treatment and has a total permitted capacity of 400 million gallons per day (mgd).3 The plant serves a population of approximately 3.5 million people throughout Los Angeles County. Treated discharge from the plant is transported to the Pacific Ocean through a network of outfalls, which extend 1.5 miles off the Palos Verdes Peninsula, to a depth of 200 feet (LACSD 2013). The JWPCP currently processes an average flow of 254.1 mgd (LACSD 2015; LACSD 2017). The projected flow to the JWPCP in its service area for 2050 is 359 mgd.4 STORM DRAINAGE Hermosa Beach is part of the Santa Monica Bay Watershed, which has an annual discharge of more than 30 billion gallons of stormwater and urban runoff each year through 200 outlets. Urban runoff is caused by precipitation falling on impermeable pavement. Urban runoff (stormwater) flows from inland locations through the city to the Pacific Ocean through a network of underground drainage pipes identified in Figure 4.8-1 in Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. The network is a mix of County -owned and City -owned lines that generally run east to west along major roads, including 16th Street, Pier Avenue, and 2nd Street. The underground storm drain system is discontinuous, and in some areas of the city storm runoff flows on the surface of streets. Minor localized street flooding is common throughout many areas of the city. This existing condition is the result of a combination of the city's flat topography and smaller, frequent storm events in which runoff flows into inlets, drains, and sumps where there is insufficient capacity to contain the runoff until the storm subsides. In some locations, where there is neither storm drain nor gutter, runoff is not always contained within the street. Most of the deficiencies are in the western part of the city: the Valley Drive/Ardmore Drive area, along Hermosa Avenue, and the Gould Avenue/27th Street area. The City has implemented some improvements to improve capacity, and additional capacity improvements will be constructed as funding allows. The storm drain system generally terminates through 11 outfalls at the west end of the city on the beach or directly into the Pacific Ocean. Severe storm events combined with high tides and/or obstruction of the mouth of storm drain outfalls by sand has caused flooding at private properties along The Strand. The underlying cause of this condition, at least in part, is the increased width of the sandy beach over time, leading to periodic burial of the outfall openings. The City's Public 3 The JWPCP operates under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit CA 0053813 issued by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (Order No. R4-2011-0151). 4 Estimates of future flows as presented in the Clearwater Program Final Facilities Master Plan (LACSD 2012, p. 4-20), which assumes a per capita generation of 83 gallons per capita per day and the current conveyance system configuration. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-31 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Works Department routinely maintains the opening of beach outfalls through a memorandum of understanding with the County. The City of Hermosa Beach and the County of Los Angeles are co -permittees on a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit in the planning area. The City is responsible for the development, implementation, and enforcement of stormwater runoff and drainage requirements to protect local and coastal water quality. As noted in Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, future projects proposed in Hermosa Beach under the Beach Cities Enhanced Watershed Management Plan include the Hermosa Beach Infiltration Trench project, the Hermosa Beach Greenbelt Infiltration project, and two green street projects. While the focus of these future projects is water quality protection, controlling the rate and volume of runoff into these features is a key component of their effectiveness. 4.13.7.2 REGULATORY SETTING The following federal, state, and local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to water and wastewater services in the planning area. FEDERAL • Clean Water Act and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): Authorized by the Clean Water Act in 1972, the NPDES permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States. Any industrial, municipal, or other facility which discharges directly to surface waters must obtain permits through the authorized states. In California, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) serves as the authorized agency to issue NPDES permits. STATE • Sewer System Management Plan: The SWRCB adopted new policies in December 2004 requiring wastewater collection providers to report sanitary sewer overflows and to prepare and implement sewer system management plans (SSMP). SSMP requirements are modeled on proposed federal capacity, management, operations, and maintenance plans. The SSMP policy requires dischargers to provide adequate capacity in the sewer collection system, take feasible steps to stop sewer overflows, identify and prioritize system deficiencies, and develop a plan for disposal of grease, among other requirements. In addition, wastewater providers must now report sanitary sewer overflows to the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board, keep internal records of these overflows, and produce an annual report on overflows. Overflows from laterals on private property, if caused by an owner, are not required to be reported. • Senate Bill 610: SB 610 (Section 21151.9 of the Public Resources Code and Section 10910 et seq. of the California Water Code) requires the preparation of water supply assessments for large developments (e.g., for projects of 500 or more residential units; 500,000 square feet of retail commercial space; or 250,000 square feet of office commercial space). • Urban Water Management Planning Act: The California Urban Water Management Planning Act of 1983 requires that each urban water supplier providing water for municipal purposes either directly or indirectly to more than 3,000 customers or supplying more than 3,000 acre- feet of water annually prepare, update, and adopt its urban water management plan (UWMP) at least once every five years on or before December 31, in years ending in 5 and 0. The plan describes and evaluates sources of water supply, projected water needs, conservation, implementation strategy, and schedule. The Hermosa -Redondo District of the California Water Service Company, the City's water supplier, adopted its 2010 UWMP in 2011. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-32 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES REGIONAL • Enhanced Watershed Management Plan for Beach Cities (EWMP): Following adoption of the MS4 permit, the Cities of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Torrance, together with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, collectively referred to as the Beach Cities Watershed Management Group (Beach Cities WMG) agreed to collaborate on the development of an Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP) for the Santa Monica Bay and Dominguez Channel Watershed areas within their jurisdictions (referred to as the Beach Cities EWMP Area). Under Part IV.0 of the MS4 permit (Watershed Management Program), the permittees are afforded the flexibility to develop watershed management programs to implement the requirements of the permit on a watershed scale through customized strategies, control measures, and best management practices. The Beach Cities EWMP summarizes watershed -specific water quality priorities identified by the Beach Cities WMG; outlines the program plan, including specific strategies, control measures, and best management practices to achieve water quality targets; and describes the quantitative analysis completed to support target achievement and permit compliance. A timeline, estimated costs, and potential funding sources are also described in the EWMP. Currently, regional best management practices have been constructed within the Beach Cities EWMP planning area, including two in Hermosa Beach (Pier Avenue Improvement project and Hermosa Strand Infiltration Trench project). Future projects proposed in Hermosa Beach are the Hermosa Beach Infiltration Trench project, the Hermosa Beach Greenbelt Infiltration project, and two green street projects. The projects in Hermosa Beach have not been funded, and a schedule for implementation has not been developed. The Beach Cities EWMP was approved by the Los Angeles RWQCB on April 18, 2016, under its authority to administer the MS4 permit. The EWMP does not establish policies or regulations that the participating cities must impose on new development or redevelopment, nor does the program require the construction of the specific features identified in the EWMP. However, the approach described in the Enhanced Watershed Management Program, in combination with the required low impact development -based best management practices that each participating city must impose on development, is anticipated to protect and potentially improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay from pollutants in stormwater runoff. LOCAL • Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County: The LACSD serves approximately 5.7 million people in Los Angeles County through 24 independent special districts. The service area includes approximately 820 square miles in 78 cities and unincorporated areas in the county. Approximately 1,400 miles of main trunk sewers and 11 wastewater treatment facilities serve the area. The 23 independent special districts are governed by boards of directors, consisting of the mayors of each city in the districts and the chair of the County Board of Supervisors for unincorporated territories. The Hermosa Beach planning area is within the South Bay Cities District of the LACSD. • Los Angeles Regional Agency (LARA): LARA was approved by the California Integrated Waste Management Board in 2004 to assist its 14 member cities to achieve Assembly Bill (AB) 939 recycling goals through a Joint Powers Agreement on a regional basis. The City of Hermosa Beach is a member of LARA, which assists member cities in complying with recycling requirements. • Hermosa Beach Capital Improvement Program (CIP): The CIP is a budget for the upcoming fiscal year, as well as a projection of revenue and desire projects for the next five years. The City's current CIP is a product of extensive public outreach and reflects the spending priorities of the community including street and highway improvements, sewer/storm drain City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-33 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES improvements, parks improvements, and public buildings and grounds improvements. The commitment for FY 2014-15 was just over $6 million. • Hermosa Beach Sanitary Sewer Master Plan: The Sanitary Sewer Master Plan provides an overview of existing conditions and recommends a rehabilitation program for Hermosa Beach's sanitary sewer infrastructure. The Master Plan estimates that the entire sanitary sewer system has a replacement value of $40 million. It recommends that the City invest $7.5 million (present value), plus 20 percent equal to $1.5 million for design and administration to rehabilitate approximately 95,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer pipes through year 2021 (City of Hermosa Beach 2011b). The City adopted a sanitary sewer tax in 2015 to implement the master plan. • Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The City's Municipal Code includes regulations and standards related to development and operations. Title 8, Health and Safety, includes standards and procedures to protect the health and safety of residents, businesses, and visitors regarding garbage collection and disposal, hazardous materials, nuisances, sewage and industrial waste, stormwater and urban runoff pollution, and water conservation and drought management. Title 13, Public Services, identifies fees associated with sewer connections and the process to establish underground utility districts. Title 15, Buildings and Construction, establishes building and construction standards to protect the public health, safety, and welfare through fire prevention, abatement of dangerous buildings, seismic strengthening, and enforcement of mechanical, plumbing, and electrical codes. Title 16, Subdivisions, identifies standards and procedures for subdividing land in the planning area consistent with the Subdivision Map Act, including park and recreation area dedication and fees. • Low Impact Development Ordinance: The City has been requiring low impact development (LID) best management practices for certain residential and commercial projects since 2010, when it adopted a customized amendment to the California Green Building Code. As required by the current MS4 permit, Municipal Code Section 8.44.095 (LID Ordinance) sets forth low impact development requirements for new development and redevelopment (Ordinance No. 15-1351). All new development or new building construction in Hermosa Beach will be required to comply with the LID requirements regardless of the area of impervious surface or acreage disturbed, which exceeds the minimum applicability requirements of the MS4 permit. Consistent with the MS4 permit, redevelopment projects of any type that add or replace more than 5,000 square feet of impervious surface area will also be required to comply with the LID requirements, with the further proviso that redevelopment projects located directly adjacent to a significant ecological area will be subject to LID requirements if they propose the addition or replacement of more than 2,500 square feet of impervious surface area.5 The City began implementing the LID Ordinance requirements in fiscal year 2015-2016. • Green Street Policy: The City adopted a policy (Resolution No. 15-0013) in 2015 to implement green street best management practices as elements of street and roadway projects, including public works capital improvement projects, to the maximum extent practicable. This policy is intended to demonstrate compliance with the MS4 permit. Water quality improvement and groundwater replenishment benefits are achieved through designs that minimize impervious area and incorporate bioretention elements (e.g., vegetated swales) to facilitate natural pollutant removal while allowing stormwater retention and/or infiltration. 5 The complete text of the LID Ordinance may be found at: http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/HermosaBeach/# I/hermosabeach08/HermosaBeach0844.html #8.44.095 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-34 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.7.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standards of significance. A utilities impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would: 1) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. 2) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. 3) Require or result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. 4) Have insufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or would require new or expanded entitlements. 5) Have inadequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand for wastewater treatment, in addition to the provider's existing commitments. ANALYSIS APPROACH Evaluation of PLAN Hermosa was based on review of the current facilities, the City's Municipal Code, and other relevant literature. This material was compared to the plan's water supply and use -related impacts, as well as impacts related to wastewater. The impact analysis below focuses on whether those impacts would have a significant effect on the physical environment. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address water supply and use and wastewater: ,Policies Sustainability + Conservation Element • 5.1 Recycled water facilities. Increase the availability of recycled water supply (i.e. purple pipes) and facilitate the installation of distribution facilities throughout the city to conserve potable water use. • 5.2 Rainwater collection. Encourage innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture and use of cisterns for outdoor watering purposes. • 5.3 Water conservation programs. Update and improve water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. • 5.4 Conservation behavior. Maximize water conservation and efficiency upgrades through education, regulation, and incentives covering every aspect of water use. • 7.1 Permeable pavement. Require the use of permeable pavement in parking Tots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. Public Safety Element • 1.8 Reduce stormwater runoff. Reduce stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-35 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACIUTIES, AND UTILITIES Infrastructure Element • 4.8 Holistic systems planning. Develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. • 5.1 Integration of stormwater best practices. Integrate stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. • 5.3 Natural features. Integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. • 5.4 Conservation behavior. Encourage community behavior changes to reduce urban runoff pollution by incentivizing the capture of rainwater to prevent runoff and meet on- site water demand. • 5.5 Stormwater system maintenance. Maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the City's stormwater infrastructure. • 5.6 Stormwater system repairs. Ensure that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other City infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. • 5.7 Stormwater permits. Strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) permit requirements through stormwater ordinances. • 5.8 Low impact development. Require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development (LID) techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff and minimize impervious surfaces. Implementation Actions • SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. • SUSTAINABILITY -9. Maintain and periodically update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan sections of the Municipal Code to facilitate the use of new technologies or practices to conserve water. • INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. - Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. - Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. - Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. • INFRASTRUCTURE -8. Improve the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying the following standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation: — New utilities must be located away from, or constructed in a manner compatible with, critical habitat areas, resources, and the shoreline. Physical and service constraints may not allow relocation away from or full compatibility with such areas and resources. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-36 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • INFRASTRUCTURE -9. Consult with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies, provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. • INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the Installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. • INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. • INFRASTRUCTURE -12. Amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing hookups for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available based on adopted infrastructure plans. • INFRASTRUCTURE -13. Continue to implement the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan and any implementing ordinances, including imposition of fines and other appropriate enforcement tools, for violations of water conservation rules. • INFRASTRUCTURE -14. Ensure adequate and resilient sewer system capacity by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: - New development or redevelopment projects involving construction of 8 -inch diameter or larger sewers that connect directly or indirectly to the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts' sewer system must prepare a sewer plan identifying that the existing sewer collection and treatment systems have available capacity to support such an increase, or provide for necessary system upgrades as part of the proposed project. • INFRASTRUCTURE -16. Implement a financing plan, including use of the adopted sewer fee and loans, to ensure that resources are available for investment in annual rehabilitation projects to improve sanitary sewer pipes. • INFRASTRUCTURE -17. Prepare an annual report for City Council documenting sewer system operations, actions to minimize overflows, incidents of overflows, and their impacts on receiving waters and public health and safety. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.7-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Wastewater Treatment Facilities to Exceed Influent Flows Beyond Permitted Capacity? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the amount of wastewater conveyed to and treated by the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant. However, the volume of flows would not cause the plant's permitted capacity to be exceeded, and the influent flows would continue to be domestic sewage, which would not change the quality of the influent compared to existing conditions. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. The increased population resulting from implementation of PLAN Hermosa could generate additional wastewater flows that would be treated by the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant located in Carson. The LACSD has estimated wastewater flows generated by the additional 300 residential units and 630,400 square feet of nonresidential development to be approximately 251,680 gallons per day (or 0.252 mgd) of wastewater (LACSD 2015).6 Currently, the JWPCP treats 6 The estimate provided by LACSD was calculated as follows: 300 residential units x 156 gallons/unit/day + 630,400 square feet nonresidential x 325 gallons/1,000 square feet/day. The LACSD assumed the Shopping Center rate (325 gallons/1,000 square feet) from its "Table 1, Loadings for Each Class of Land Use" as a proxy for the nonresidential uses. Specific land uses such as retail stores and offices have lower rates (e.g., 100 gpd/1,000 square feet and 200 gpd/1,000 square feet, respectively). City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-37 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES an average of 254.1 mgd, which includes flows from Hermosa Beach. The addition of flows from PLAN Hermosa (0.252 mgd) would increase treated flows to approximately 254.4 mgd, which would not exceed the current 280-mgd primary and secondary treatment capacity or the 400- mgd permitted capacity of the JWPCP. PLAN Hermosa's additional flows would represent less than an approximately 0.1 percent contribution to flows. Existing flows are typical domestic sewage from residential, retail, office, light industrial, and other commercial uses. Although implementation of PLAN Hermosa would allow additional residential units and an increase in nonresidential square footage, the overall chemical and physical characteristics of the sewage flows would not change because the land uses are generally the same. In addition, any new development or redevelopment of commercial uses would be required to demonstrate compliance with the City's sewer disposal requirements (Municipal Code Chapter 8.36) to ensure the sewage flows would not violate applicable standards. PLAN Hermosa implementation action INFRASTRUCTURE -16 would ensure that resources are available for investment in annual rehabilitation projects to improve sanitary sewer pipes. INFRASTRUCTURE -8 would serve to reduce any potential impacts from implementation of PLAN Hermosa by improving the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying specific standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation. INFRASTRUCTURE -17 requires documentation of sewer system operations to minimize overflows, a record of incidents of overflows, and their impacts on receiving waters and public health and safety. These actions would ensure the quality of wastewater flows generated in the city that are conveyed to the JWPCP would not change substantially compared to existing conditions, and some improvement may be realized. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in an exceedance of the JWPCP's permitted capacity or change the quality of influent from the city relative to existing conditions such that the quality of treated water discharged by the JWPCP would be affected by PLAN Hermosa's contribution. PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact with regard to compliance with wastewater treatment requirements. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.7-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for New or Expanded Water or Wastewater Treatment Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for potable water and would generate wastewater. However, the demand would not result in the need for the construction or expansion of water or wastewater treatment facilities that would result in significant environmental effects because the demand is within existing planned capacity projections of the utility providers. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa could increase the demand for potable water, which would be provided by the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District. The primary source of supply to the district is treated water from the MWD. Potential demand through implementation of PLAN Hermosa would generate demand that is within the 2010 UWMP projections, and the district has determined that existing and planned supplies are sufficient for its service area through 2040 (see Impact 4.13.7-4, below). Therefore, PLAN Hermosa would not result in new or expanded water treatment facilities. As described in Impact 4.13.7-1, PLAN Hermosa's residential and nonresidential uses would generate an additional 0.252 mgd of wastewater, which would be conveyed to the JWPCP. The flows can be accommodated within the plant's existing treatment capacity. The LACSD has PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-38 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES indicated that the regional wastewater conveyance system should be able to accommodate the additional uses proposed in PLAN Hermosa (LACSD 2015). The City has developed a Sanitary Sewer Master Plan that describes a rehabilitation program for Hermosa Beach's sanitary sewer infrastructure, and in 2015 adopted a sanitary sewer tax. Numerous PLAN Hermosa implementation actions would help reduce water consumption and wastewater flow. INFRASTRUCTURE -9 would require consultation with Cal Water to provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. INFRASTRUCTURE -10 would require installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities. INFRASTRUCTURE -1 would serve to reduce potential impacts by creating a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. The infrastructure plan would be used as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans and when setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements and would serve to improve current flooding issues in the city. Each Capital Improvement Plan would be updated as needed to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. INFRASTRUCTURE -11 directs City support for Cal Water's efforts to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -16 would implement a financing plan, including use of a sewer tax and loans, to ensure that resources are available for investment in annual rehabilitation projects to improve sanitary sewer pipes. INFRASTRUCTURE -8 would improve the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying specific standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation. In addition, the following Sustainability + Conservation Element policies would reduce water consumption and wastewater flow, which would reduce the demand on conveyance infrastructure. Policy 4.2 would require large buildings to report their energy and water use on a regular basis. Policy 5.1 would ensure recycled water supply and distribution facilities are available throughout the city. Policy 5.3 would update and improve water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. Policy 5.4 would maximize water conservation and efficiency upgrades through education, regulation, and incentives covering every aspect of water use. Therefore, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not result in the need for the construction or expansion of water or wastewater treatment facilities that would result in significant environmental effects. Impacts on water and wastewater treatment facilities would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.7-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Stormwater Drainage Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in redevelopment in the planning area but would generally not increase the amount of impervious surface. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would direct construction of development projects to include on-site drainage improvements, which would reduce the impact on existing stormwater drainage facilities. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. There are minor localized flooding problems in some areas of the city due to inadequacies in the storm drain system capacity. However, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not exacerbate the problem because it would not substantially increase the amount of current impervious surfaces in the city. In fact, as shown in Table 4.9-2 in Section 4.9, Land Use and Planning, the entire City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-39 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES city has only 2.6 vacant acres. This limited amount of vacant land, in combination with the requirements of the City's Low -Impact Development (LID) Ordinance and Green Streets Policy, would reduce the potential for a substantial increase in impervious surfaces. Stormwater that runs over streets and sidewalks can pick up debris and pollutants, which are carried, untreated, into the ocean. To help reduce the amount of pollution from contaminated stormwater, the City has adopted the LID Ordinance and a Green Streets Policy. The LID Ordinance uses landscape design to retain or filter stormwater runoff, using development techniques such as rain gardens, permeable pavers, and bioswales. As the Green Streets Policy is implemented, low impact development will add to the existing fabric of stormwater infrastructure in Hermosa Beach. Additionally, the Beach Cities Enhanced Watershed Management Plan summarizes watershed -specific water quality priorities identified by the Beach Cities. The approach described in the EWMP, in combination with the required LID -based best management practices, is anticipated to protect and potentially improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay from pollutants in stormwater runoff. New residential and nonresidential development will occur primarily through infill and redevelopment activities that would occur in areas which are already urbanized. Redevelopment activities may provide opportunities to create new pervious surfaces to facilitate groundwater infiltration through new greenspace, landscaping, or use of porous pavements. Incorporation of stormwater management facilities, such as retention basins, swales, or vegetation planted for evapotranspiration, would reduce drainage loads through the stormwater system. The LID Ordinance requires these types of pervious surfaces for qualifying projects. Qualifying projects include the following: • All redevelopment projects, including single- or multifamily residential projects, adding or replacing more than 5,000 square feet of impervious surface area • Industrial parks or sites with 5,000 square feet or more of surface area • Commercial malls or sites with 5,000 square feet or more of surface area • Automotive service facilities (SIC 5013, 5014, 5511, 5541, 7532-7534, and 7536-7539) with 5,000 square feet or more of surface area • Retail gasoline outlets with 5,000 square feet or more of surface area • Restaurants (SIC 5812) with 5,000 square feet or more of surface area • Parking lots with 5,000 square feet or more of impervious surface area or with 25 or more parking spaces (cumulative on the project site) • Any redevelopment project located in or directly adjacent to or discharging directly into a significant ecological area (as defined herein), where the development will: a) Discharge stormwater and dry weather runoff that is likely to impact a sensitive biological species or habitat; and b) Create 2,500 square feet or more of impervious surface area Further, PLAN Hermosa Public Safety Element Policy 1.8 would serve to reduce stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. Sustainability + Conservation Element Policy 7.1 would require the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. In addition, the following Infrastructure Element policies would serve to reduce potential impacts. Policy 4.8 would develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. Policy 5.1 would integrate stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. Policy 5.3 would integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way. Policy 5.4 would encourage community behavior changes to PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-40 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES reduce urban runoff pollution. Policy 5.5 would maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the city's stormwater infrastructure. Policy 5.6 would ensure that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other city infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. Policy 5.7 would strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 NPDES permit requirements. Policy 5.8 would require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff. Implementation action INFRASTRUCTURE -1 would serve to reduce potential impacts by creating a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. The infrastructure plan would be used as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. Each Capital Improvement Plan would be updated to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. Therefore, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, impacts on stormwater drainage facilities would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.7-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Water Supplies Beyond Projections? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could increase the demand for potable water. However, the demand is within the 2010 Urban Water Management Plan supply -demand projections adopted by the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District, and no new entitlements would be needed. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Development associated with future land uses consistent with PLAN Hermosa would result in a total of 660 new residents from 2015 to 2040 in the planning area, for a total population of 20,400. When combined with the SCAG-forecasted population for 2040 for Redondo Beach and the portion of Torrance in the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District service area, the total estimated population for 2040, based on new forecasts, is approximately 102,790, which only slightly exceeds the estimate developed by the district based on SCAG forecasts. The combined population in the service area, with PLAN Hermosa, would also be well under the district's service area population estimate of 113,200. Because PLAN Hermosa's water demand is within the supply -demand projections presented in the 2010 UWMP through 2040, additional water supply entitlements would not be required for the project. PLAN Hermosa would reduce the current and future demand for water supply with the following Sustainability + Conservation Element policies. Policy 5.1 would ensure recycled water supply and distribution facilities are available throughout the city. Policy 5.2 would encourage innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture, use of cisterns, and installation of greywater systems. Policy 5.3 would update and improve water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. Policy 5.4 would maximize water conservation and efficiency upgrades through education, regulation, and incentives covering every aspect of water use. In addition, Infrastructure Element Policy 4.8 would develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-41 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Implementation action INFRASTRUCTURE -12 would amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing infrastructure so that recycled water for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses may be utilized in new development and redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available. INFRASTRUCTURE -9 would ensure consultation with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies specifically for Hermosa Beach through 2040. INFRASTRUCTURE -11 directs City support for Cal Water's efforts to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -1 would create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. The infrastructure plan would be used as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Plans and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. Each Capital Improvement Plan would be updated to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. The City of Hermosa Beach adopted a Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan Ordinance in 2010 as requested by West Basin/Metropolitan to address water conservation and provide a mechanism for mandating water conserving methods. The City's continued conservation efforts will help it sustain low water use in accordance with the requirements of the California Water Conservation Bill of 2009 (Senate Bill X7-7), which requires urban water suppliers to reduce per capita water use 20 percent by 2020. Therefore, impacts related to water supply would be less than significant because the projected water demand from PLAN Hermosa buildout is within the demands forecast in the 2010 UWMP, which demonstrates that supply meets the demand in Hermosa Beach. Furthermore, buildout would not result in any new or expanded water supplies or facilities beyond those planned and assumed in the 2010 UWMP. Impacts would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.7-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause the JWPCP to Exceed Capacity for Wastewater Treatment? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in the need for additional wastewater treatment from increased flows. However, the anticipated increase in wastewater generated would not exceed the capacity of the JWPCP or result in the need for the construction or expansion of wastewater treatment facilities. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. As described under Impact 4.13.7-1, wastewater from the city's system is collected and treated at the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant, which has a permitted capacity of 400 mgd. Current flows are approximately 254.1 mgd, well below the facility's design capacity. It is anticipated that with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, wastewater generation would increase by approximately 0.252 mgd, although the actual amount may be less due to continued water conservation efforts and the use of recycled water. The JWPCP has capacity to treat the anticipated increase in wastewater attributable to the land use changes and population growth proposed in PLAN Hermosa. Therefore, impacts on wastewater treatment facilities would be Tess than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-42 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative setting for water supply impacts is the Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District service area. The cumulative setting for wastewater impacts is the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant in Carson and wastewater conveyance lines operated by the County that discharge to the JWPCP. IMPACT 4.13.7-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Cumulative Water Supply Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Cal Water Hermosa - Redondo District service area, would increase the demand for water supply. However, PLAN Hermosa water demand is within the district's population -based supply/demand assumptions, and additional supplies would not be required. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Table 4.13-3, above, identifies cumulative water demand and supply through 2040. The Cal Water Hermosa -Redondo District has determined that sufficient and reliable supply will be available for its service area under all water year scenarios, as described in Impact 4.13.7-4. PLAN Hermosa's demand is within the population -based demand projections developed by the district, and would not result in the need for new or expanded supplies to meet cumulative demand. Therefore, the project's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.7-7 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Cumulative Wastewater Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the service area of the JWPCP, would increase the demand for wastewater treatment. There is sufficient capacity at the JWPCP for projected future demand, which includes flows from Hermosa Beach, and new or expanded facilities would not be required. PLAN Hermosa's contribution would be less than cumulatively considerable. Cumulative development in the service area for the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant would result in an estimated future average dry weather flow of 359 mgd (LACSD 2012), which would not exceed the plant's permitted design capacity of 400 mgd. PLAN Hermosa's additional contribution (0.252 mgd) would represent less than 0.07 percent of the future demand, which would be less than cumulatively considerable, and would not result in the need for new or expanded facilities. Mitigation Measures None required. 4.13.8 SOLID WASTE 4.13.8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Hermosa Beach is within the planning area for the County of Los Angeles Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan, which is administered by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. Solid waste is disposed of at in -county and out -of -county landfills. There are several transfer/processing facilities where solid waste collected from the jurisdictions is initially processed, which reduces the amount of solid waste placed into landfills. In 2014, the total amount of solid waste disposed of at in -county landfills, transformation facilities, and out -of -county landfills was nearly 9 million tons. Approximately 52 percent of solid waste was delivered to in -county landfills, City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-43 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES and of those in -county landfills nearly 85 percent of the solid waste was disposed of at the Sunshine Canyon City/County Landfill, Chiquita Canyon Landfill, and Antelope Valley Landfill. The County does not anticipate a shortfall in permitted solid waste disposal capacity within the county in the next 15 years (LACDPW 2015). The primary out -of -county facilities are the Mid -Valley Sanitary Landfill and San Timoteo Sanitary Landfill. Solid waste disposal services in Hermosa Beach are provided by a commercial vendor, Athens Services, pursuant to an agreement for integrated solid waste management services dated May 24, 2013 (City of Hermosa Beach 2013c). Athens Services provides collection service, including recycling, to both residential and commercial properties in the planning area. The agreement includes a guaranteed 50 percent diversion rate or higher, through the implementation of a "pay as you throw" system as well as a single stream waste recovery and disposal system. After implementation of the new franchise agreement, December 2013 records showed that Hermosa Beach reached a 50.3 percent diversion rate (City of Hermosa Beach 2013e). Athens Services also provides street sweeping and cleaning services, while Los Angeles County provides beach cleaning services. Solid waste is hauled to the Athens United Waste Materials Recovery Facility in the City of Industry, where it is sorted and recycled in compliance with AB 341. The facility has a permitted daily capacity of 5,000 tons per day. Waste materials are then transported to a variety of landfills identified in the Integrated Solid Waste Management agreement. In 2014, approximately 11,236 tons of solid waste from Hermosa Beach was landfilled (LACDPW 2016). This amount represents approximately 0.1 percent of the approximately 9 million tons of countywide disposals at landfills in 2014. Data for the entire year of 2015 are not available at this time. The City does not make the determination as to which landfill is used for solid waste generated in Hermosa Beach. Some of the landfills are in Los Angeles County and some are outside the county. The amount of solid waste generated in Hermosa Beach and delivered by Athens Services to landfills has shifted in the last few years to more out -of -county disposal. For example, in 2012 and 2013, nearly all of the solid waste generated (approximately 13,000-14,000 tons) was disposed of in -county, primarily at the Sunshine Canyon City/County Landfill. However, in 2014, of the approximately 11,000 tons of landfilled solid waste from Hermosa Beach, over 8,000 tons (approximately 72 percent) was delivered out -of -county for disposal (LACDPW 2016). The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (Cal Recycle) calculates per capita disposal by population and per capita disposal by employee rates for jurisdictions in California. The targets and actual rates are jurisdiction -specific indicators of progress toward meeting a 50 percent disposal per capita requirement. CalRecycle generally uses the per resident disposal rate for most jurisdictions when evaluating progress toward meeting targets, unless business disposal is the primary source of solid waste. Hermosa Beach disposals are aggregated with many other jurisdictions under the Los Angeles Area Integrated Waste Management Authority. For the aggregated jurisdictions, the per capita residential target is 7.1 pounds per person per day of landfilled solid waste. In 2014, the aggregated jurisdictions achieved an actual disposal rate of 4.8 pounds per person per day (CalRecycle 2016). This exceeds (i.e., is better than) the target. Although CalRecycle does not provide specific rates for Hermosa Beach, using CalRecycle's online disposal rate calculator and population for 2014, the estimated rate for Hermosa Beach was 3.1 pounds per day per person, which exceeds (i.e., is better than) the aggregated jurisdictions' targets and actual rates. 7 In CalRecycle's program, the term "jurisdictions" comprises counties, cities, unincorporated county areas, and regional waste management entities. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-44 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Residential hazardous waste disposal is available at a facility located in Playa Del Rey and operated by the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation. The facility is open on Saturdays and Sundays. CalRecycle certifies used oil recycling collection centers to encourage recycling of motor oil. 4.13.8.2 REGULATORY SETTING The following state local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to solid waste in the planning area. • California Integrated Waste Management Act: To minimize the amount of solid waste that must be disposed of by transformation and land disposal, the California Legislature passed the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939, Statutes of 1989), effective January 1990. According to this act, all cities and counties were required to divert 25 percent of all solid waste from landfill facilities by January 1, 1995, and 50 percent by January 1, 2000. To help in the increase of diversion rates, each jurisdiction is required to create an integrated waste management plan. Each city plan must demonstrate integration with the relevant county plan. The plans must promote source reduction, recycling and composting, and environmentally safe transformation and land disposal. Elements of the plans must be updated every five years. AB 939 established the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB; now CalRecycle) to oversee integrated waste management planning and compliance. The bill's passage led to the refinement of a statewide system of permitting, inspections, maintenance, and enforcement for waste facilities in California, and also required the CIWMB to adopt minimum standards for waste handling and disposal to protect public health and safety and the environment. The CIWMB is responsible for approving permits for waste facilities, approving local agencies' diversion rates, and enforcing the planning requirements of the law through local enforcement agencies. The agencies are responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to solid waste management, issuing permits to solid waste facilities, ensuring compliance with state -mandated requirements, coordinating with other government agencies on solid waste -related issues, and overseeing corrective actions at solid waste facilities. Local enforcement agencies inspect facilities, respond to complaints, and conduct investigations into various aspects of solid waste management. Chapter 476, Statutes of 2011 (Chesbro, AB 341), declared that by 2020 California will source reduce, recycle, or compost no less than 75 percent of solid waste generated. 4.13.8.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ANALYSIS APPROACH The following analysis is both quantitative and qualitative and is based on available information for services provided in the planning area. The potential amount of solid waste requiring landfill disposal was based on the current rate of 3.1 pounds per day per person and an increase in population of 660. The analysis assumes that all future and existing development in the planning area complies with applicable laws, regulations, standards, and plans. An analysis of cumulative impacts uses quantitative and qualitative information for the planning area and applicable broader service areas. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address solid waste: City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-45 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES Policies Sustainability + Conservation Element • 6.1 Franchise agreements. Ensure waste franchise agreements and program offerings provide progressively higher rates of waste diversion. • 6.2 Food waste collection. Ensure food waste collection is available and convenient for all residents, businesses, and organizations. • 6.3 Multi -family and commercial recycling. Require the provision of convenient recycling options in multi -family residential and commercial uses, until single -stream services make it unnecessary to separate recycling from other materials. • 6.4 Material source reduction. Support and enforce requirements to minimize the use of non -recyclable materials or materials commonly found on the beach, such as plastic bags and polystyrene. • 6.5 Recycled materials. Encourage and support the sale of products that minimize packaging or are made from recycled materials. • 6.6 Composting programs. Provide composting equipment at community facilities and events and encourage home and commercial composting. • 6.7 Green purchasing. Evaluate "green purchasing" options across all City departments and consider the life -cycle effects of purchases. • 6.8 Recycled building materials. Where cost effective and structurally feasible, maximize the use of recycled building materials in new construction projects. • 6.9 Building salvage. Maximize building salvage and deconstruction in remodeling or building demolition projects. Implementation Actions • SUSTAINABILITY -10. Create and adopt a Zero Waste Action Plan to maximize waste diversion from landfills. • SUSTAINABILITY -11. Amend the Municipal Code to require that all commercial facilities make full-service recycling available for both customer use and business use, placing attractive and convenient bins in clear locations. • SUSTAINABILITY -12. Consistent with State law, require that all multi -family residential uses provide an adequate number of attractive and convenient recycling bins to serve the number of units in the complex. • SUSTAINABILITY -13. Require that all restaurants use compostable single -use items like takeout boxes. • SUSTAINABILITY -14. Create an informational packet to be distributed to development project applicants on the use of recycled materials in new development and redevelopment projects. THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis provided below is based on the following CEQA Guidelines Appendix G standards of significance. A solid waste impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would: 1) Be served by a landfill with insufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs. 2) Not comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-46 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.8-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Solid Waste Disposal? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional solid waste disposal needs. Adequate capacity exists in the landfills receiving waste generated in Hermosa Beach to accommodate these additional needs. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. New development and population growth with implementation of PLAN Hermosa could increase demand for solid waste collection services and disposal capacity. The increase in population would result in increased solid waste disposal demand of approximately 1 ton per day (374 tons per year), which would represent an approximately 3 percent increase compared to 2014 levels. The amount of solid waste requiring landfill disposal would be expected to be reduced through several PLAN Hermosa implementation actions and policies. For example, implementation action SUSTAINABILITY -10 would create and adopt a Zero Waste Action Plan to maximize waste diversion. This program would further decrease impacts to solid waste and landfill capacity. In addition, the following policies would decrease the demand for solid waste disposal. Policy 6.1 would ensure waste franchise agreements and program offerings provide progressively higher rates of waste diversion. Policy 6.2 would ensure food waste collection is available and convenient for all residents, businesses, and organizations. Policy 6.3 would require the provision of convenient recycling options in multi -family residential and commercial uses. Policy 6.4 would support and enforce requirements to minimize the use of nonrecyclable materials or materials commonly found on the beach, such as plastic bags and polystyrene. Policy 6.5 would encourage and support the sale of products that minimize packaging or are made from recycled materials. Policy 6.6 would provide composting equipment at community facilities and events and encourage home and commercial composting. Policy 6.7 would evaluate "green purchasing" options across all City departments and consider the life -cycle effects of purchases. Policy 6.8 would maximize the use of recycled building materials in new construction projects. Policy 6.9 would maximize building salvage and deconstruction in remodeling or building demolition projects. Historically, Hermosa Beach solid waste was landfilled in -county, but in 2014, there was a shift to out -of -county facilities. It is unknown whether that trend will continue. The City does not make the decision as to where solid waste generated from development under PLAN Hermosa would be disposed. However, the small amount of solid waste generated under PLAN Hermosa, when added to 2014 disposal (approximately 11,236 tons), would be approximately 11,610 tons. This would represent less than a 0.1 percent increase in solid waste delivered to in -county and out -of - county landfills, which would not affect current permitted and remaining capacities. Additionally, records show that Hermosa Beach meets it diversion requirements, and nothing in PLAN Hermosa would reverse that trend. In fact, plan policies are aimed at achieving higher diversion rates, as explained above. Because PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would further reduce the amount of waste generated by the community and would not result in the need for new or expanded solid waste facilities, impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.13.8-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Comply with Solid Waste Disposal Regulations? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could result in additional solid waste disposal needs. The City would City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-47 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES continue current programs and policies that result in a per capita disposal rate is better than target amounts. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. The estimated per capita disposal rate in Hermosa Beach is 3.1 tons per day, which exceeds (i.e., is better than) the CalRecycle aggregated jurisdiction target of 7.1 pounds per day per person and the actual aggregated rate of 4.8 pounds per day per person. This indicates the City is in compliance with existing regulations that require 50 percent diversion. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions identified in the discussion of Impact 4.13.8-1 would further ensure compliance with solid waste disposal regulations, specifically the AB 341 requirement for 75 percent diversion by 2020. Therefore, with implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions, impacts related to compliance with solid waste regulations would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative impact area for solid waste is the Los Angeles Integrated Solid Waste Management Authority planning area for solid waste. IMPACT 4.13.8-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause Cumulative Solid Waste Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in the Los Angeles Integrated Solid Waste Management Authority planning area, would increase the demand for solid waste facilities. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded solid waste services would be considered less than cumulatively considerable. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW) has estimated an annual landfill disposal demand for the aggregated jurisdictions for the period 2014-2029. The estimate is based on its population projections, per capita solid waste generation, current (60 percent) and future (75 percent) diversion, and availability of transformation and alternative technology facilities. Although the population and amount of solid waste generated would increase, the amount of solid waste landfilled is expected to decrease. In its 2014 annual report, the LACDPW (2015) determined that the cumulative need for Class III landfill disposal capacity, approximately 99.8 million tons, will not exceed the 2014 remaining permitted Class III landfill capacity of 112 million tons. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to that cumulative demand would be approximately 0.0004 percent, which is negligible. Although the LACDPW has not developed a forecast for 2040, given that PLAN Hermosa's contribution would not be cumulatively considerable in 2029, the impact would be less than cumulatively considerable in 2040. Mitigation Measures None required. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-48 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.9 ENERGY 4.13.9.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING Appendix C-8 describes the regional and local conditions related to energy in Hermosa Beach. Key findings of the environmental setting are provided below. ENERGY SOURCES Energy generation occurs across the state from many different sources. Tracking the specific source of energy used in any one place can be difficult. Energy that is not generated at a facility by an energy provider can be purchased from other producers and transmitted to the energy user through transmission networks. Energy sources used in Hermosa Beach may include hydroelectric, waste -to -energy, transformation, geothermal, solar, wind, coal, natural gas, and nuclear. The following paragraphs describe the existing sources of electricity and natural gas for Hermosa Beach. Electricity Southern California Edison (SCE) supplies electricity to customers in Hermosa Beach. Over the past 15 years, electricity generation in California has undergone a transition. Historically, California has relied heavily on oil- and gas-fired plants to generate electricity. Spurred by regulatory measures and tax incentives, California's electrical system has become more reliant on renewable energy sources, including cogeneration, wind energy, solar energy, geothermal energy, biomass conversion, transformation plants, and small hydroelectric plants. Unlike petroleum production, generation of electricity is usually not tied to the location of the fuel source and can be delivered great distances via the electrical grid. The generating capacity of a unit of electricity is expressed in megawatts (MW). One MW provides enough energy to power 1,000 average California homes per day. Net generation refers to the gross amount of energy produced by a unit, minus the amount of energy the unit consumes. Generation is typically measured in megawatt -hours (MWh), kilowatt-hours (kWh), or gigawatt - hours (GWh). Natural Gas Natural gas is a hydrocarbon fuel found in reservoirs beneath the earth's surface and is composed primarily of methane (CH4). It is used for space and water heating, process heating and electricity generation, and as transportation fuel. The Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) supplies natural gas in Hermosa Beach. Use of natural gas to generate electricity is expected to increase in coming years because it is a relatively clean alternative to other fossil fuels like oil and coal. In California and throughout the western United States, many new electrical generation plants that are fired by natural gas are being brought online. Thus, there is great interest in importing liquefied natural gas from other parts of the world. As of 2012, 43 percent of the electricity consumed in California was generated using natural gas (CEC 2013). While the supply of natural gas in the United States and production in the lower 48 states has increased greatly since 2008, California produces little, and imports 90 percent of its natural gas. Most imports are delivered via interstate pipelines from the Southwest, Rocky Mountains, and Canada (CPUC 2013). EXISTING ENERGY USE As of 2012, California ranked second in the United States in total energy consumption of natural gas, petroleum, and retail electricity sales, following only Texas in each category (EIA 2014a). Despite being a large consumer of energy, in particular transportation energy, California's per • City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa W August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-49 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES capita consumption rate for all these energy sources combined is one of the lowest in the country (49th). This is largely because of California's proactive energy efficiency programs and mild weather, which reduces energy demands for heating and cooling (EIA 2014b). Residential and nonresidential (businesses, industrial processes, government operations) activities in Hermosa Beach such as building heating and cooling, lighting, and appliance operation require electricity and natural gas. Table 4.13-4 (Energy Use by Sector and Fuel Type) presents an overview of the electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuel consumed in the city in 2015; more detailed information by fuel source is provided below. TABLE 4.13-4 ENERGY USE BY SECTOR AND FUEL TYPE - 2015 Type Total Percentage of Total Electricity Use (kWh) Residential Energy 49,778,500 54.7% Nonresidential Energy 41,191,800 45.3% Total 90,970,300 100.0% Natural Gas Use (therms) Residential Energy 3,364,400 79.3% Nonresidential Energy 876,000 20.7% Total 4,240,400 100.0% Transportation Fuel Vehicle Miles Traveled 133,808,700 Average Fleet Fuel Efficiency 22 Transportation Fuel (gallons) 6,194,800 EV Electricity Use (kWh) — Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a ALTERNATIVE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES Wind Energy Wind energy systems convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical or electrical energy that can be used for practical purposes. Wind electric turbines generate electricity for homes and businesses and for sale to utilities. Wind electricity can be generated on a small residential scale with small turbines (typically a few kilowatts [kW] or less in capacity, but some as large as 30 kW), or on a utility scale via large wind farms. Wind energy plays an integral role in California's electricity portfolio. According to the California Energy Commission (CEC), in 2004, turbines in wind farms in California generated about 1.5 percent of the state's total electricity resource, enough to light a city the size of San Francisco. This production increased to represent 8.1 percent or 23,913 GWh in 2014 (CEC 2015). Hermosa Beach has adopted regulations for small wind energy systems, and one application for a small residential wind energy system was recently submitted and withdrawn. This energy source is expected to have minimal potential in Hermosa Beach due to existing density and height restrictions and potential aesthetic concerns. Solar Energy Solar power can be harnessed for several applications, including heating, cooling, and electricity generation. The most common method to produce energy uses photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. Large-scale use of solar energy represents a major PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-50 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES potential energy resource in the Southern California climate. In general, large-scale solar power plants are very land intensive compared to conventional power plants, requiring acres of reflectors, pipelines, and transmission lines. No large-scale solar power plants exist in Hermosa Beach, although small-scale solar generation facilities are used on individual properties. The State of California has emphasized developing solar -produced energy by developing the California Solar Initiative in 2006. The initiative provides incentives to help increase the amount of solar energy generated in California. One such incentive is to encourage solar energy to be used in new homes. The incentive program is known as the New Solar Homes Partnership. Overall, the California Solar Initiative has a goal to provide 1,750 MW of solar -generated energy by 2016 (CEC 2013). In 2014, California produced 10,557 GWh, which represented 5.3 percent of the total electricity produced in the state (CEC 2015). Residents and businesses in Hermosa Beach have invested nearly $3 million to install approximately 378 kW of solar through this program, consisting of 74 residential PV systems and 6 nonresidential PV systems (Go Solar California 2014). The City waives building permit fees. Biomass According to the CEC, biomass electricity is drawn from combusting or decomposing organic matter. There are about 132 waste -to -energy plants in California, with a total capacity of almost 1,000 megawatts. These plants power homes and businesses with electricity from waste matter that would have been released into the atmosphere, added fuel to forest fires, and burdened landfills. Using biomass to produce electricity reduces the reliance on fossil fuels, the nation's primary energy sources for electricity, and the largest contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gases. In 2015, 6,280 gigawatt -hours of electricity in homes and businesses were produced from biomass: burning forestry, agricultural, and urban biomass; converting methane -rich landfill gas to energy; and processing wastewater and dairy biogas into useful energy. Biomass power plants produced 3.43 percent of the total electricity in California (CEC 2016a). Geothermal Geothermal energy is produced by the heat of the earth and is often associated with volcanic or seismically active regions. California, with its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," has 25 Known Geothermal Resource Areas, 14 of which have temperatures of 300 degrees Fahrenheit or greater. The most developed of the high-temperature geothermal resource areas in the state is the Geysers. Located north of San Francisco, the Geysers was first tapped as a geothermal resource to generate electricity in 1960. It is one of only two locations in the world where a high- temperature, dry steam resource is found that can be directly used to move turbines and generate electricity (the other being in Larderello, Italy) (CEC 2016b). Electricity can be generated from high temperature geothermal resources by using the thermal (heated) water and steam to move turbines that in turn run electrical generators and produce electricity. Several types of geothermal power plants can be used to generate electricity, including dry steam, flash or double flash, and binary cycle power plants. In 2015, geothermal energy in the state produced 11,994 gigawatt -hours of electricity. Combined with another 700 GWh of imported geothermal power, geothermal energy produced 6.13 percent of the state's total system power. There are a total of 44 operating geothermal power plants in California with an installed capacity of 2,716 megawatts (CEC 2016b). 4.13.9.2 REGULATORY SETTING The following state and local plans, policies, regulations, and laws pertain to energy. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-51 • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES STATE • California Public Utilities Commission: The California Public Utilities Commission has authority to set electric rates, regulate natural gas utility service, protect consumers, promote energy efficiency, and ensure electric system reliability. California Public Utilities Commission General Order 131-D (adopted by Decision 94-06-014 and modified by Decision 95-08-038) contains the rules for the planning and construction of new transmission facilities, distribution facilities, and substations. This decision requires utility companies to obtain permits to construct certain power line facilities or substations if the voltage would exceed 50 kilovolts (kV) or if the substation would require the acquisition of land or an increase in voltage rating above 50 kV. Utilities do not need to comply with this decision for distribution lines and substations with voltage less than 50 kV; however, they must obtain any nondiscretionary local permits required for the construction and operation of these projects. Compliance with CEQA is required for construction of facilities. The California Public Utilities Commission also has jurisdiction over the siting of natural gas transmission lines. • Renewables Portfolio Standard: California's Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), established in 2002 by Senate Bill 1078 (Sher, Chapter 516, Statutes of 2002), originally required retail electricity providers to increase procurement by at least 1 percent per year of their electricity supplies from renewable resources to achieve a 20 percent renewable mix by no later than 2017. Since then, the CEC, the California Public Utilities Commission, and the California Power Authority approved the first Energy Action Plan in 2003, which accelerated the 20 percent target date to 2010. A second Energy Action Plan was adopted in 2005, which provided updates in energy policy. Senate Bill 107 (Smitian and Perata, Chapter 464, Statutes of 2006) adopted the revised 2010 target date into law. A third update was adopted in 2008, which "examines the state's ongoing actions in the context of global climate change" (CEC 2009). Executive Order S-14-08 expands the state's renewable energy standard to set a target of 33 percent renewable power by 2020. Executive Order S-21-09 directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to adopt regulations increasing California's RPS to 33 percent by 2020. Most recently, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. signed into legislation Senate Bill 350 in October 2015, which requires retail sellers and publicly owned utilities to procure 50 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable energy resources by 2030. • California Green Building Standards: Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations is a statewide standard applied by local agencies through building permits. It includes requirements for the structural, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems of buildings and for fire and life safety, energy conservation, green design, and accessibility in and around buildings. Part 6 (the California Energy Code) and Part 11 (the California Green Building Standards Code) include prescriptive and performance-based standards to reduce electricity and natural gas use in every new building constructed in California. These standards are regularly updated every three years to incorporate new market -ready technologies and design techniques to further reduce energy use from the built environment. The most recent update to these standards went into effect January 1, 2017. • California Environmental Quality Act: CEQA Guidelines Appendix F, Energy Conservation, requires consideration of project impacts on energy and focuses particularly on avoiding or reducing inefficient, wasteful, and unnecessary consumption of energy (Public Resources Code Section 21100[b][3]). The potentially significant energy implications of a project must be considered in an EIR to the extent relevant and applicable to the project. LOCAL • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: Section 15.48.020 of the City's Municipal Code modifies the California Energy Code, requiring new residential and nonresidential buildings PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-52 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES to be 15 percent more energy efficient than California Energy Code requirements. The section also includes requirements for cool roofs or roofs with high levels of solar reflectance, energy-efficient appliances, and energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. • Permit Processing and Rebates: The City provides building permit and planning fee rebates for eligible green building, energy efficiency, and renewable energy projects. Eligible projects include those obtained through Energy Upgrade California or the HERO program, as well as projects certified through Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Build It Green. Renewable energy projects (including wind and solar) are also eligible for rebates. • Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan: The Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan was accepted by the City Council in 2011. Chapter 5 of the plan focuses on building energy and includes measures and projects to reduce energy use at municipal facilities and encourage the installation of renewable energy projects at homes and businesses. • Hermosa Beach Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan: The City of Hermosa Beach, in concert with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (COG), is committed to providing a more livable, equitable, and economically vibrant community and subregion through the implementation of energy efficiency measures. By using energy more efficiently, it is the City's objective to keep dollars in the local economy, create new green jobs, and improve the community's quality of life. The Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan contains goals and policies that incorporate energy use reduction into the City's daily management of its community and municipal operations. 4.13.9.3 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ANALYSIS APPROACH The following analysis is quantitative and is based on available information for energy services provided in the planning area. The impact analysis focuses on the three sources of energy that are relevant to the proposed project: electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuel. The analysis of impacts is based on the likely consequences of adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa compared to existing conditions. This analysis uses the energy information provided in the 2015 City of Hermosa Beach GHG Inventory, Forecasting, Target -Setting Report for an Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan (2015 GHG Inventory Report) and the local growth projections determined based on available land capacity (see Chapter 3.0, Project Description) as the basis for projecting future energy use in the city. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS The following PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions address energy demand and conservation. Other policies and implementation actions that would have an effect on energy demand would include greenhouse gas emissions reduction policies and actions, approaches to water conservation and wastewater reductions, and planning concepts that reduce vehicle miles traveled, which are listed in Sections 4.6, 4.8, and 4.14, respectively. Policies GOVERNANCE ELEMENT • 4.4 Regional transportation and infrastructure decisions. Actively support regional transportation and infrastructure projects and investment decisions that benefit the City and the region. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-53 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES LAND USE + DESIGN ELEMENT • Land Use Designations - The range and diversity of uses allowed within each land use designation plays a role in the number of trips a use generates and the mode of transportation chosen to make that trip. The more diversity in uses (between commercial, office/professional, residential, etc.) in a given area, combined with a safe transportation network, results in shorter trips that can be made by driving, walking, biking, or transit. • 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement and transformation of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. • 1.2 Focused infill potential. Proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. • 1.3 Access to daily activities. Strive to create sustainable development patterns such that the majority of residents are within walking distance to a variety of neighborhood goods and services, such as supermarkets, restaurants, churches, cafes, dry cleaners, laundry mats, farmers' markets, banks, personal services, pharmacies and similar uses. • 1.4 Diverse commercial areas. Promote the development of diversified and unique commercial districts with locally owned businesses and job- or revenue -generating uses. • 4.2 Employment centers. Encourage the development and co -location of additional office space and employment centers along corridors, preferably above ground -floor commercial uses on second or third floors. • 4.7 Access to transit. Support the location of transit stations and enhanced stops near the intersection of Aviation Blvd and Pacific Coast Highway, and adjacent to Gateway Commercial uses to facilitate and take advantage of transit service, reduce vehicle trips and allow residents without private vehicles to access services. • 4.10 Pedestrian access. For all new development, encourage pedestrian access, and create strong building entries that are primarily oriented to the street. • 6.2 Streetscaping. Proactively beautify existing streetscapes with street trees, landscaping and pedestrian -scaled lighting. • 6.3 Green open space network. Establish an interconnected green infrastructure network throughout Hermosa Beach that serves as a network for active transportation, recreation and scenic beauty and connects all areas of the city. In particular, connections should be made between the beach, parks, the Downtown, neighborhoods, and other destinations within the city. Consider the following components when designing and implementing the green/open space network: - Preserved open space areas such as the beach and the Greenbelt - Living streets with significant landscaping and pedestrian and bicycle amenities - Community and neighborhood parks, and schools • 6.5 Provision of sidewalks. Encourage pedestrian -friendly sidewalks on both sides of streets in neighborhoods. • 6.7 Pedestrian -oriented design. Eliminate urban form conditions that reduce walkability by discouraging surface parking and parking structures along walkways, long blank walls along walkways, and garage -dominated building facades. • 6.8 Balance pedestrian/vehicular circulation. Require vehicle parking design to consider pedestrian circulation. Require the following of all new development along corridors: - Where parking lots front the street, the City will work with existing property owners to add landscaping between the parking lot and the street. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-54 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES — Parking lots should be landscaped to create an attractive pedestrian environment and reduce the impact of heat islands. — The number of curb cuts and other intrusions of vehicles across sidewalks should be minimized. When shared parking supply options are not available, encourage connections between parking lots on adjacent sites. — Above -ground parking structures should be designed according to the same urban design principles as other buildings. Encourage the use of systems to increase parking lot efficiency, such as mechanical lift systems or occupancy sensors. • 9.1 Ocean -based energy resources. Encourage and support research and responsible development of renewable ocean -based energy sources. Renewable energy sources appropriate to Hermosa Beach could include wave, tidal, solar, and wind sources that meet the region's and state's need for affordable sources of renewable energy. • 13.3 Fresh food offerings. Encourage the continuation and expansion of fresh food offerings including farmers' markets, community gardens, and edible landscapes in Hermosa Beach. MOBILITY ELEMENT • 1.1 Consider all modes. Require the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. • 2.5 Require sustainable practices. Incorporate environmental sustainability practices into designs and strategic management of road space and public right-of-ways, prioritizing practices that can serve multiple infrastructure purposes. • 3.2 Complete pedestrian network. Prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities and connectivity to destinations. • 3.3 Active transportation. Require commercial development or redevelopment projects and residential projects with four or more units to accommodate active transportation by providing on-site amenities, necessary connections to existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks, and incorporate people -oriented design practices. • 3.4 Access opportunities. Provide enhanced mobility and access opportunities for local transportation and transit services in areas of the city with sufficient density and intensity of uses, mix of appropriate uses, and supportive bicycle and pedestrian network connections that can reduce vehicle trips within the city's busiest corridors. • 3.5 Incentivize other modes. Incentivize local shuttle/trolley services, rideshare and car share programs, and developing infrastructure that support low speed, low carbon (e.g. electric) vehicles. • 3.6 Complete bicycle network. Provide a complete bicycle network along all designated roadways while creating connections to other modes of travel including walking and transit. • 4.1 Shared parking. Facilitate park -once and shared parking policies among private developments that contribute to a shared parking supply and interconnect with adjacent parking facilities. • 4.4 Preferential parking program. Periodically study and evaluate the current inventory of public parking supply and update the preferential parking program. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-55 • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • 4.5 Sufficient bicycle parking. Require a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. • 4.6 Priority parking. Provide priority parking and charging stations to accommodate the use of Electric Vehicles (EVs), including smaller short -distance neighborhood electric vehicles. • 4.9 Encourage TDM strategies. Encourage use of transportation demand management strategies and programs such as carpooling, ride hailing, and alternative transportation modes as a way to reduce demand for additional parking supply. • 5.1 Prioritize development of infrastructure. Prioritize the development of roadway and parking infrastructure that encourages private electric and other low carbon vehicle ownership and use throughout the city. • 5.2 Local transit system. Develop a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport of residents, hotel guests, and beachgoers between activity centers, and to Downtown businesses and the beach. • 5.3 Incentivize TDM strategies. Incentivize the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies as a cost effective method for maximizing existing transportation infrastructure to accommodate mobility demands without significant expansion to infrastructure. • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development that supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. • 6.1 Regional network. Work with government agencies and private sector companies to develop a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network that connects the community to surrounding cities. • 6.3 Support programs. Facilitate greater local and regional mobility through programs for shared equipment or transportation options such as car sharing and bike sharing. • 6.6 Greater utilization of BCT. Consider exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Beach Cities Transit system for improved mobility along major corridors and as a potential means of improved regional transit connections. SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION ELEMENT • 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. • 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. • 3.3 Fuel efficient fleets. Promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. • 4.1 Renewable energy generation. Support and facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses. • 4.2 Retrofit program. Provide an energy retrofit program and incentives to assist home and building owners to make efficiency improvements. • 4.3 Rental efficiency. Adopt a financing program to incentivize rental efficiency retrofits that benefit both the owner and tenant. • 4.4 Municipal facilities. Utilize renewable energy sources at City facilities PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-56 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • 4.5 Sustainable building standards. Use sustainable building checklists to minimize or eliminate waste and maximize recycling in building design, demolition, and construction activities. PARKS + OPEN SPACE ELEMENT • 4.2 Enhanced access points. Increase and enhance access to parks and open space, particularly across major thoroughfares, as well as access points that promote physical activity such as pedestrian- and bike -oriented access points. • 4.3 Safe and efficient trail network. Develop a network of safe and efficient trails, streets, and paths that connect residents, visitors, and neighboring communities to the beach, parks, and activity centers. • 6.4 Transit access. Coordinate with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to improve regional and local transit access to beach access points. • 6.5 Wayfinding and coastal access. Maximize all forms of access and safety getting to and around the Coastal Zone through infrastructure and wayfinding improvements. • 6.12 Comprehensive bike and pedestrian network. Prioritize completion of proposed South Bay Bike Master Plan improvements in the Coastal Zone that connect to other bike routes and paths throughout the city and to the surrounding region. INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT • 2.4 Sidewalk improvements. Consider innovative funding strategies, such as cost-sharing, ADA accessibility grants, or sidewalk dedications, to improve the overall condition, safety, and accessibility of sidewalks. • 2.5 Active transportation dedications. Require new development and redevelopment projects to provide land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as widened sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops, in compliance with ADA accessibility standards. • 2.6 Traffic signal coordination. Maintain and operate the traffic signal system with advanced technologies to manage traffic operations and maintain traffic signal infrastructure. • 6.4 Innovative and renewable technology. Encourage the exploration and establishment of innovative and renewable utility service technologies. Allow the testing of new alternative energy sources that are consistent with the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa and comply with all relevant regulations. • 6.5 Renewable energy facilities. Unless a renewable energy facility would cause an unmitigatable impact to health or safety, allow them by right. • 6.6 Renewable energy procurement. Collaborate with nearby local and regional agencies to provide greater renewable energy choices to the community. Implementation Actions • MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. • MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. • SUSTAINABILITY -7. Concurrent with new State Building Code adoptions, periodically update or amend Green Building Standards and conduct cost effectiveness studies to incorporate additional energy -efficiency and energy production features. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-57 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES • SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. • INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. • INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. • INFRASTRUCTURE -25. Survey all streetlights periodically for functionality and create a response protocol to respond to reports of streetlight outages within a 24-hour time period. THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE The impact analysis below is based on CEQA Guidelines Appendix F pertaining to energy conservation. An energy impact is considered significant if implementation of the proposed project would result in a wasteful, inefficient, and unnecessary use of direct or indirect energy. For purposes of the analysis, "wasteful" and "inefficient" are circumstances in which the project would conflict with applicable state or local energy legislation, policies, and standards, or result in increased per capita energy consumption. IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.13.9-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Increase Demand for Additional Energy Resources? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city that would not result in the use of fuel or energy in a wasteful manner. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. Electricity and Natural Gas Consumption As shown in Table 4.13-5 (Historic Energy Consumption), overall electricity consumption was reduced by 8.7 percent between 2005 and 2012. However, this reduction was based on the reduction of electrical consumption from commercial/industrial customers. Residential electrical consumption increased by 4.0 percent during this time, while natural gas consumption increased by 1.0 percent. TABLE 4.13-5 HISTORIC ENERGY CONSUMPTION Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a In 2015, the City of Hermosa Beach, in concert with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, collected data on existing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Additionally, the City has projected future energy consumption in the city based on growth projections and a business - as -usual (BAU) scenario, essentially assuming no new regulations are put in place to reduce energy PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-58 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 2005 2012 Percentage Change Electricity Consumption (kWh) Residential Energy 47,843,200 49,778,500 4.0% Nonresidential Energy 51,741,500 41,191,800 -20.4% Total 99,584,700 90,970,300 -8.7% Natural Gas Consumption (therms) Residential Energy 3,339,800 3,364,400 0.7% Nonresidential Energy 857,700 876,000 2.1% Total 4,197,500 4,240,400 1.0% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a In 2015, the City of Hermosa Beach, in concert with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, collected data on existing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Additionally, the City has projected future energy consumption in the city based on growth projections and a business - as -usual (BAU) scenario, essentially assuming no new regulations are put in place to reduce energy PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-58 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES consumption or reduce greenhouse gas emissions (see Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, for a discussion of GHG and climate change). Table 4.13-6 (Energy Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential under Plan Hermosa) provides an estimate of electricity and natural gas use under the BAU scenario. As shown in Table 4.13-6, electricity and natural gas consumption will continue to rise through 2040 under the BAU scenario. However, full implementation of PLAN Hermosa would reduce energy consumption by 19.2 percent for electricity and 15.1 percent for natural gas between 2015 and 2040. TABLE 4.13-6 ENERGY CONSUMPTION ASSOCIATED WITH THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL UNDER PLAN HERMOSA Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a As shown in Table 4.13-6, the future development potential through 2040 under a BAU scenario could result in the additional consumption of 18,868,900 kilowatt-hours and 629,100 therms over current conditions. However, this consumption does not take into account the energy savings to be gained through the implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's energy consumption policies and implementation actions would support further reductions in energy use, and would result in a reduction in the consumption of electricity and natural gas in the city. Thus, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not conflict with or obstruct City goals intended to reduce the consumption of electricity and natural gas resources. Furthermore, the future development allowed under PLAN Hermosa would be required to comply with Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which establish minimum efficiency standards related to various building features, including appliances, water and space heating and cooling equipment, building insulation and roofing, and lighting. Implementation of the Title 24 standards significantly reduces energy usage. Automotive Fuel Consumption As shown in Table 4.13-7 (Fuel Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential under PLAN Hermosa), increases in fuel economy and the overall reduction in vehicle miles traveled is expected to decrease the amount of fuel consumed between 2015 and 2040 under the BAU scenario. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's proposed policies and implementation actions that are designed to promote pedestrian, bicycle, and transit forms of transportation would further reduce dependency on fossil fuels. As shown in Table 4.13-7, under PLAN Hermosa, the amount of transportation fuels consumed would be reduced to approximately 1.4 million gallons or almost 77 percent when compared to existing (2015) conditions, but would also increase electricity City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-59 • BAU Plan Implementation Change Between 2015 and 2040 2015 2020 2030 2040 2040 Electricity Use (kWh) Residential Energy 49,778,500 50,759,000 52,730,200 54,696,400 33,363,500 -33.0% Nonresidential Energy 41,191,800 43,984,400 49,561,600 55,142,800 40,102,000 -2.6% Total 90,970,300 94,743,400 102,291,800 109,839,200 73,465,500 -19.2% Natural Gas Use (therms) Residential Energy 3,364,400 3,430,700 3,563,900 3,696,800 2,953,000 -12.2% Nonresidential Energy 876,000 935,400 1,054,000 1,172,700 648,200 -26.0% Total 4,240,400 4,366,100 4,617,900 4,869,500 3,601,200 -15.1% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a As shown in Table 4.13-6, the future development potential through 2040 under a BAU scenario could result in the additional consumption of 18,868,900 kilowatt-hours and 629,100 therms over current conditions. However, this consumption does not take into account the energy savings to be gained through the implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's energy consumption policies and implementation actions would support further reductions in energy use, and would result in a reduction in the consumption of electricity and natural gas in the city. Thus, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not conflict with or obstruct City goals intended to reduce the consumption of electricity and natural gas resources. Furthermore, the future development allowed under PLAN Hermosa would be required to comply with Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which establish minimum efficiency standards related to various building features, including appliances, water and space heating and cooling equipment, building insulation and roofing, and lighting. Implementation of the Title 24 standards significantly reduces energy usage. Automotive Fuel Consumption As shown in Table 4.13-7 (Fuel Consumption Associated with the Future Development Potential under PLAN Hermosa), increases in fuel economy and the overall reduction in vehicle miles traveled is expected to decrease the amount of fuel consumed between 2015 and 2040 under the BAU scenario. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's proposed policies and implementation actions that are designed to promote pedestrian, bicycle, and transit forms of transportation would further reduce dependency on fossil fuels. As shown in Table 4.13-7, under PLAN Hermosa, the amount of transportation fuels consumed would be reduced to approximately 1.4 million gallons or almost 77 percent when compared to existing (2015) conditions, but would also increase electricity City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-59 • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES consumption due to the increase in use of electric vehicles. The reduction of transportation fuel consumed by 2040 compared to 2015 (77 percent) is a result of greater fuel efficiency from conventionally fueled vehicles, a reduction in overall vehicle miles traveled through land use changes, and a greater shift to electric vehicles or fossil -free vehicles. By 2040 it is estimated that approximately 75 percent of new vehicles in Hermosa Beach will be electric or fossil -free vehicles, compared to approximately 5 percent in 2015. This information, along with all other assumptions associated with the calculation of energy or fuel use and greenhouse gas reductions, is presented in Appendix E-1. TABLE 4.13-7 FUEL CONSUMPTION ASSOCIATED WITH THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL UNDER PLAN HERMOSA Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a The data in Table 4.13-7 have been developed using the same assumptions used for the greenhouse gas emissions analysis in Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which concludes that PLAN Hermosa will reduce emissions locally by at least 66 percent by 2040. As discussed above, implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions would reduce the consumption of electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuels. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative impact area for energy consumption is Los Angeles County. IMPACT 4.13.9-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Have Cumulative Energy Consumption Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in Los Angeles County, would increase the demand for energy resources. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded energy resources would be less than cumulatively considerable. According to the California Energy Consumption Data Management System, residential and nonresidential land uses in Los Angeles County consumed approximately 70 billion kWh of electricity and about 3 billion therms of natural gas in 2014 (the latest year of existing data) (CEC 2014). In addition, about 11 million gallons of automotive fuel was consumed daily in the county in 2015 (roughly 4 billion gallons annually). Energy consumption associated with PLAN Hermosa in comparison to Los Angeles County is summarized in Table 4.13-8 (Plan Hermosa Energy Consumption Plus Cumulative Conditions). Under the BAU scenario, electricity consumption in the city will increase by about 19 million kWh. This increase represents an increase in total electricity use (when compared to 2014 statistics) in Los Angeles County of 0.03 percent, while natural gas consumption represents an increase of 0.02 percent. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions would result in PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-60 BAU Plan Implementation 2015 2020 2030 2040 2040 Transportation Vehicle Miles Traveled 133,808,700 126,238,300 128,574,500 130,910,800 107,737,700 Average Fleet Fuel Efficiency 22 mpg 34 mpg 44 mpg 55 mpg 55 mpg Transportation Fuel (gallons) 6,194,800 3,702,000 2,908,900 2,402,000 1,428,600 EV Electricity Use (kWh) — — — — 9,959,700 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a The data in Table 4.13-7 have been developed using the same assumptions used for the greenhouse gas emissions analysis in Section 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which concludes that PLAN Hermosa will reduce emissions locally by at least 66 percent by 2040. As discussed above, implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions would reduce the consumption of electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuels. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The cumulative impact area for energy consumption is Los Angeles County. IMPACT 4.13.9-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Have Cumulative Energy Consumption Impacts? Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, in combination with other existing, planned, proposed, approved, and reasonably foreseeable development in Los Angeles County, would increase the demand for energy resources. PLAN Hermosa's contribution to the need for expanded energy resources would be less than cumulatively considerable. According to the California Energy Consumption Data Management System, residential and nonresidential land uses in Los Angeles County consumed approximately 70 billion kWh of electricity and about 3 billion therms of natural gas in 2014 (the latest year of existing data) (CEC 2014). In addition, about 11 million gallons of automotive fuel was consumed daily in the county in 2015 (roughly 4 billion gallons annually). Energy consumption associated with PLAN Hermosa in comparison to Los Angeles County is summarized in Table 4.13-8 (Plan Hermosa Energy Consumption Plus Cumulative Conditions). Under the BAU scenario, electricity consumption in the city will increase by about 19 million kWh. This increase represents an increase in total electricity use (when compared to 2014 statistics) in Los Angeles County of 0.03 percent, while natural gas consumption represents an increase of 0.02 percent. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa's policies and implementation actions would result in PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-60 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES the reduction of electricity use in the city by about 18 million kWh and natural gas use by about 600,000 therms. As shown, this decrease would reduce the amount of electricity and natural gas consumption in Los Angeles County by 0.03 percent and 0.02 percent, respectively. The reduction in automotive fuel use would decrease use in the county by 0.01 percent for both scenarios. TABLE 4.13-8 PLAN HERMOSA ENERGY CONSUMPTION PLUS CUMULATIVE CONDITIONS Energy Type Los Angeles County Hermosa Beach 2040 Percentage Difference Countywide Difference 2015-2040 BAU Annual Energy Consumption Difference 2015-2040 PLAN Implementation Annual Energy Consumption BAU Plan Implementation Electricity Consumption) 69,997,000,000 kWh 18,868,900 kWh -17,504,800 kWh 0.03 -0.03 Natural Gas Consumption) 2,857,000,000 therms 629,100 therms -639,200 therms 0.02 -0.02 Automotive Fuel Consumption2 3,986,603,000gallons -3,792,800gallons -4,766,200 gallons -0.01 -0.01 Sources: City of Hermosa Beach 2015a; CEC 2014 Note: The project increases in electricity and natural gas consumption are compared with all of the residential and nonresidential buildings in Los Angeles County in 2014. The project increases in automotive fuel consumption are compared with the countywide fuel consumption in 2015. The increase in electricity and natural gas consumption over existing conditions under the BAU scenario would be negligible. Improvements in energy use would result with PLAN Hermosa implementation. As such, PLAN Hermosa would not place a substantial demand on regional energy supply or require significant additional capacity, or significantly increase peak and base period electricity demand, or cause wasteful, inefficient, and unnecessary consumption of energy during subsequent project construction, operation, and/or maintenance, or preempt future energy development or future energy conservation. Therefore, this impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-61 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 4.13.10 REFERENCES California Department of Social Services. 2012. Community Care Licensing Division Facility Search List. Accessed February 20, 2014. http://www.ccld.ca.gov/docs/ccld_search/ccld_search.aspx. California Environmental Protection Agency. 2014. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/npdes/. CalRecycle (California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery). 2016. Jurisdiction Per Capita Disposal Trends: Los Angeles Area Integrated Waste Management Authority [aggregated jurisdictions]. http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/LGCentral/Reports/Jurisdiction/ReviewReports.aspx. Cal Water (California Water Service Company). 2011.2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Hermosa -Redondo District. http://www.water.ca.gov/urbanwatermanagement/2010uwmps/CA%20Water%20Servic e%20Co%20-%20Hermosa%20Redondo%20District/. CDE (California Department of Education, Educational Demographics Unit). 2016. Enrollment data for 2014-15 for Hermosa Beach City School District, Mira Costa High School, and Redondo Beach Union High School. Accessed March 7, 2016. http://datal.cde.ca.gov/dataquest/. CEC (California Energy Commission). 2009. State of California Energy Action Plan. http://www.energy.ca.gov/energy_action_plan/index.html. . 2013. California's Major Energy Sources. Accessed February 2014. http://energyalmanac.ca.gov/overview/ energy_sources.html. . 2014. California Energy Consumption Data Management System (ECDMS). http://www.ecdms.energy.ca.gov/gasbycounty.aspx. . 2015. 2014 Total System Power in Gigawatt Hours. Accessed September 10, 2015. http://energyalmanac.ca.gov/electricity/total_system_power.html. 2016a. Waste to Energy & Biomass in California. Accessed May 4, 2016. http://www.energy.ca.gov/biomass/index.html. . 2016b. Geothermal Energy in California. Accessed May 4, 2016. http://www.energy.ca.gov/geothermal/background.html. Center for Public Safety Management. 2013a. Data Analysis Report, Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Hermosa Beach, California. http://www.hermosabch.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentlD=3314. 2013b. Police Operations Report, Hermosa Beach, California. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3556. City of Hermosa Beach. 2010. Hermosa Beach Stormwater Program and Water Quality Issues. Accessed February 20, 2014. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=669. 2011a. City of Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan. http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=4&clip_id=1471 &meta_id =91633. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-62 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES 2011 b. City of Hermosa Beach Sanitary Sewer Master Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=1765. . 2013a. Leader's Guide 2013. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=2675. 2013b. Police Department Web Page. Accessed February 19, 2014. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=178. . 2013c. Agreement between City of Hermosa Beach and Arakelian Enterprises DBA Athens Services, for Integrated Waste Management Services. . 2013d. Geographic Information Systems Database. 2013e. Athens Services Monthly Solid Waste Tonnage Report. . 2015a. GHG Inventory, Forecasting, Target -Setting Report for an Energy Efficiency Climate Action Plan. 2016. Strategic Plan Draft Report - City of Hermosa Beach. 2017. PLAN Hermosa. City of Los Angeles. 2006. L.A. CEQA Thresholds Guide. http://www.environmentla.org/programs/Thresholds/Complete%20Threshold%20Guide% 202006.pdf. CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission). 2013. California Public Utilities Commission California Solar Initiative Program Handbook. http://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/documents/CSI_HANDBOOK.PDF. EIA (Energy Information Administration). 2014a. Table C11. Energy Consumption by Source, Ranked by State, 2012. Accessed July 2014. http://www.eia.gov/state/seds/sep_sum/html/pdf/rank_use_source.pdf. 2014b. State Energy Profiles, California. Accessed March 2014. http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/state/state_energy_profiles.cfm?sid=CA. EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency). 2009. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. Accessed February 20, 2014. http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/. Fehr & Peers. 2014. Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study Existing Conditions - Initial Findings. Go Solar California. 2014. California Solar Initiative Working Data Set. Accessed March 2014. https://www.californiasolarstatistics.ca.gov/search/. HBCSD (Hermosa Beach City School District). 2009. Project Forward: Hermosa Beach Schools. Accessed February 29, 2014. http://www.hbcsd.org/view/5202.pdf. . 2014. Long Range Facilities Master Plan. . 2015. Phone conversation with District Clerk Paula Montalbo. December 2. HBFD (Hermosa Beach Fire Department). 2014. Annual Report of Calendar Year 2014. http://www.hermosabch.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentlD=5892. LACDPW (Los Angeles County Department of Public Works). 2015. County of Los Angeles Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan 2014 Annual Report. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.13-63 • • 4.13 PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES . 2016. Public Works Department. Solid Waste Information Management System, 2014 Yearly In -County Jurisdictions Solid Waste Disposal Report (including exports), Reporting Period: 2014. http://dpw.lacounty.gov/epd/swims/OnlineServices/reports.aspx. LACSD (Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County). 2012. Clearwater Program Final Master Facilities Plan. . 2013. Wastewater Facilities. http://www.lacsd.org/wastewater/wwfacilities/default.asp#map. . 2015. Plan Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update [comment letter on Notice of Preparation dated September 8, 2015, included in Appendix B] 2017. Response to DEIR for the PLAN Hermosa: City of Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program Update [comment letter on Draft EIR dated January 5, 2017, included in Section 2.0, Responses to Comments, in the Final EIR]. Los Angeles County Fire Department. 2012. Los Angeles County Fire Department Strategic Plan. http://www.fire.lacounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/LACFD_Strategic- Plan_2012_web.pdf. MBUSD (Manhattan Beach Unified School District). 2015. 2015 Manhattan Beach Unified School District Facilities Master Plan. RBUSD (Redondo Beach Unified School District). 2016. Residential Development School Fee Justification Study. Redella, Janet. 2016. Assistant Superintendent Administrative Services, Redondo Beach Unified School District. Personal communication. March 14. SoCalGas (Southern California Gas Company). 2010. Natural Gas Use Report for City of Hermosa Beach. Southern California Edison. 2011a. Electricity Use Report for City of Hermosa Beach, 2010. . 2011 b. Electricity Use Report for City of Hermosa Beach, 2010. . 2013a. Electricity Use Report for City of Hermosa Beach, 2012. . 2013b. Electricity Use Report for City of Hermosa Beach, 2011. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.13-64 • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION 4.14 TRANSPORTATION 4.14.1 INTRODUCTION This resource section evaluates the potential environmental impacts related to transportation systems from PLAN Hermosa implementation. The analysis includes a review of the vehicular, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian components of the circulation system. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions presented in the Mobility Element provide a framework to evaluate, manage, and improve transportation infrastructure and practices to address increased congestion and serve all modes of transportation. NOP Responses: No comments were received in response to the NOP related to transportation. Comments included written letters and oral comments provided at the NOP scoping meeting. Reference Information: Information for this resource section is based on numerous references, including the PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (Appendix C-17), US Census Bureau data (2010), California Department of Finance data (2015), the Southern California Association of Governments' (2015) Profile of the City of Hermosa Beach and (2012) draft Regional Transportation Plan projections, Hermosa Beach's (2014) annual Financial Report, and other publicly available documents. The Technical Background Report prepared for the project is attached to this document as Appendix C-17, which describes the existing transportation system classifications and functionality. Key findings from the Technical Background Report are summarized below. 4.14.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM The transportation system in Hermosa Beach features diverse elements that include an extensive network of roadways comprising arterials, collectors, and local streets, 5.1 miles of bicycle facilities, an extensive network of developed pedestrian facilities, and a public transit system providing both local and regional bus service. These facilities support a multimodal transportation network that connects multiple neighborhoods to nearby communities and to the greater surrounding region. Roadway Network The existing Hermosa Beach General Plan Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element (1990) designates three different roadway types in the city. Table 4.14-1 (Hermosa Beach Roadway Functional Classifications) summarizes street classification and performance characteristics, and Table 4.14-2 (Hermosa Beach Roadways) outlines the classified facilities in the city. Primary roadways include Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or State Route 1), Ardmore Avenue/Valley Drive, Artesia Boulevard (State Route 91), Aviation Boulevard, and Herondo Street, as illustrated in Figure 4.14-1 (Hermosa Beach Street Classification). Regional access is via by the San Diego Freeway (Interstate 405) located approximately 3 miles east of the city border. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-1 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-1 HERMOSA BEACH ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS Roadway Type Accommodation for Movement of Traffic Level of Property Access Arterial Primary roadway for movement of traffic at city level; prioritizes traffic movement can also provide regional connectivity. Driveways and other curb cuts along arterials are limited to minimize disruption to traffic flow. Collector Circulation of traffic between residential neighborhoods and arterial streets. Collectors typically provide intracity and some intercity access, but no regional access. Access is prioritized similarly to a local street with more considerations for traffic flow and visibility. Local Designed to serve adjacent residential land uses only and provide the lowest accommodation for traffic movement Local streets provide the highest level of property access. Driveways are closely spaced, and there are few access limitations. Walk Street Provide no vehicular access. Walk streets provide high levels of pedestrian- and bicycle -only property access. Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 TABLE 4.14-2 HERMOSA BEACH ROADWAYS Classification Streets Arterial Streets Artesia Boulevard Aviation Boulevard Hermosa Avenue from 14th Street to south city limit Pacific Coast Highway Pier Avenue from Pacific Coast Highway to Ardmore Avenue Collector Streets 2nd Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Hermosa Avenue 5th Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 8th Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Hermosa Avenue 25th Street 27th Street Ardmore Avenue from Pier Avenue to north city limit Gould Avenue Manhattan Avenue from 27th Street to north city limit Monterey Boulevard Pier Avenue from west of Ardmore Avenue Prospect Avenue Valley Drive from Pier Avenue to south city limit Local Roads All others Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-1 HERMOSA BEACH STREET CLASSIFICATION Lt;r C::i',('YG or* Va 1,11N .-....ter p.», 4f,tff(1(l1, slI•14 4.6.n Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Transit Transit service in Hermosa Beach is provided by three transportation agencies—Beach Cities Transit, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT)—and includes a demand -responsive paratransit service. Transit services in the city are shown in Figure 4.14-2 (Existing Transit Network). Beach Cities Transit provides local transit service for the Los Angeles Beach Cities. Daily weekday and weekend transit services are served by two routes: Transit Lines 102 (service in Redondo Beach only) and 109. Line 109 runs north -south along the coast through Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, traversing a route between Riviera Village in Redondo Beach and the Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center. Connection to regional transit, the Metro Green Line, is served by two stops: the Aviation/LAX Station and the Douglas Station. Routes operated by Beach Cities Transit are summarized in Table 4.14-3. TABLE 4.14-3 BEACH CITIES TRANSIT ROUTES Line From To Weekday Headway Weekend Headway 102 Redondo Beach Pier Redondo Beach Green Line Station 30-45 min 30-45 min 109 ,Redondo Beach Riviera Village Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center 30-50 min 60 min Source: Beach Cities Transit 2015 Metro operates several bus routes and rail lines that offer regional transit service. Metro Line 130 provides east -west coverage between the Beach Cities and the Harbor Gateway Transit Center in Gardena. North -south transit coverage is served by Metro Line 232. This route travels along Pacific Coast Highway between downtown Long Beach and the Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center and provides direct connection to the Metro Blue and Green lines. Metro's Green Line provides regional east -west light rail service to the South Bay area and the Gateway Cities communities of Lynwood, Downey, Bellflower, and Norwalk. This rail line has direct connections to north -south rail via the Metro Blue Line. Routes operated by Metro that directly serve Hermosa Beach are summarized in Table 4.14-4 (Los Angeles County Metro Transit Services). TABLE 4.14-4 Los ANGELES COUNTY METRO TRANSIT SERVICES Route Type Direction Service to/from Weekday Headway Weekend Headway 130 Local E—W Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles via Gateway Cities 30 min 50-60 min 232 Local N—S Downtown etntown Long Beach to Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center 20 min 20 min 30-60 Source: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority 2015; Los Angeles Department of Transportation 2015 LADOT's Commuter Express provides one bus route (Commuter Express Route 438) with express service during peak commute periods between the Beach Cities area and downtown Los Angeles via the Century and Harbor freeways. This line makes local stops in Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, and El Segundo. The route operated by LADOT that directly serves Hermosa Beach is summarized in Table 4.14-5 (Los Angeles Department of Transportation Transit Services). PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-5 LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TRANSIT SERVICES Route Type Service to/from Weekday Peak -Hour Trips 438 Express Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, El Segundo, and Los Angeles AM = 6 inbound trips PM = 8 outbound trips Source: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority 2015; Los Angeles Department of Transportation 2015 The WAVE Dial -A -Ride program offers demand -responsive paratransit service for senior and disabled passengers for travel in Hermosa Beach. Paratransit is an alternative mode of flexible passenger transportation that does not follow fixed routes or schedules. Citywide WAVE operations provide same-day, curb -to -curb transit to anyone who meets qualification conditions. The standard fare for service in Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, or any area south of El Segundo Boulevard, west of Crenshaw Boulevard, and north of Pacific Coast Highway is $1.00. Travel outside these boundaries is subject to an additional meter charge. FIGURE 4.14-2 EXISTING TRANSIT NETWORK Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-5 • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Bicycle Facilities Hermosa Beach currently has 5.1 miles of existing bicycle facilities that include the Class I Marvin Braude Bikeway on The Strand and Class II, Class III, and Class IV bicycle facilities on Hermosa Avenue (see Table 4.14-6 (Hermosa Beach Bicycle Facilities) and Figure 4.14-3 (Existing Bicycle Network)). Brief descriptions of each bikeway class follow. • Class I Bikeway. Often referred to as a bike path, this facility provides for bicycle travel on a paved right-of-way completely separated from any street or highway. • Class II Bikeway. Often referred to as a bike lane, this facility provides a striped and stenciled lane for one-way travel on a street or highway. • Class III Bikeway. Often referred to as a bike route, this facility provides for shared use with pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic and is identified only by signage. • Class IV Bikeway. Often referred to as a separated bikeway, this facility provides for bicycle -only travel in a facility physically separated from through vehicular traffic. TABLE 4.14-6 HERMOSA BEACH BICYCLE FACIUTIES Class Street/Path From To I Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand) 35th Street Herondo Street IV Hermosa Avenue 35th Street 28th Street II Hermosa Avenue 28th Street 24th Street II Herondo Street Hermosa Avenue Valley Drive III Hermosa Avenue 24th Street Herondo Street Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Pedestrian Environment The city's pedestrian infrastructure is along most arterial and local streets interconnected by a network of sidewalks and striped crosswalks. While many streets in the city include pedestrian facilities, a number of locations have noncontiguous sidewalk coverage and lack adequate curb ramps, cross steep driveway entrances, and include sidewalk obstructions that block travel along a number of the city's narrow sidewalks. In Hermosa Beach's Downtown area, pedestrian facilities offer a range of amenities that include public spaces, shopping, dining, beach access, and shade cover supplied by the city's tree network and streetscape design strategies. Protected pedestrian facilities are common throughout the city along pedestrian -only walk streets and off-street pedestrian paths. The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt provides north—south connections away from the beach. The Strand, Southern California's famous beachside pedestrian walkway and bicycle path (Marvin Braude Bikeway), also serves the Hermosa Beach community on its way between Torrance and Malibu. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-6 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-3 EXISTING BICYCLE NETWORK Manhattan Bach Plrr-/1vc 7.rrd St I ti at far V; II Rx?lAh� :ami r7F'.t rn t+t o'a,J r Hero Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-7 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION LEVEL OF SERVICE The performance of a roadway system is measured in terms of level of service (LOS), a standardized methodology describing the efficiency of a roadway circulation system in relation to the quality of traffic operations and flow. LOS is ranked by a letter grade that represents the overall condition of travel through an intersection or road segment, based on number of seconds of delay for vehicles. These grades range from A (minimal delay) to F (excessive congestion). LOS E represents at -capacity operations. LOS definitions for intersections are shown in Table 4.14-7 (Level of Service Definitions). TABLE 4.14-7 LEVEL OF SERVICE DEFINITIONS LOS Definition A EXCELLENT. No vehicle waits longer than one red light and no approach phase is fully used. B VERY GOOD. An occasional approach phase is fully utilized; many drivers begin to feel somewhat restricted within groups of vehicles. C GOOD. Occasionally drivers may have to wait through more than one red light; backups may develop behind turning vehicles. D FAIR. Delays may be substantial during portions of the rush hours, but enough lower volume periods occur to permit clearing of developing lines, preventing excessive backups. E POOR. Represents the most vehicles intersection approaches can accommodate; may be long lines of waiting vehicles through several signal cycles. F FAILURE. Backups from nearby locations or on cross streets may restrict or prevent movement of vehicles out of the intersection approaches. Tremendous delays with continuously increasing queue lengths. Source: Transportation Research Board 1980 Studied Intersections Thirteen intersections and 20 street segments were selected for study. These study locations are shown in Figure 4.14-4 (Study Intersections) and Figure 4.14-5 (Study Roadway Segments). Studied intersections, intersection control type, and responsible agencies for each study location are shown in Table 4.14-8 (Study Intersections). Studied street segments and their accompanying functional classification, number of lanes, and estimated daily capacities from the existing General Plan Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element are shown in Table 4.14-9 (Study Roadway Segments). TABLE 4.14-8 STUDY INTERSECTIONS Intersection Intersection Control Jurisdiction 1. Hermosa Avenue & 13th Street Signal Hermosa Beach 2. Hermosa Avenue & Pier Avenue Signal Hermosa Beach 3. Pacific Coast Highway & Artesia Boulevard Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans/CMP 4. Pacific Coast Highway & Aviation Boulevard Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans 5. Pacific Coast Highway & Pier Avenue Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans 6. Pacific Coast Highway & 2nd Street Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans 7. Pacific Coast Highway & 16th Street Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans 8. Pacific Coast Highway & 21st Street Signal Hermosa Beach/Caltrans 9. Prospect Avenue & Artesia Boulevard Signal Hermosa Beach 10. Prospect Avenue & Aviation Boulevard Signal Hermosa Beach 11. Prospect Avenue & Anita Street Signal Hermosa Beach 12. Manhattan Avenue & 27th Street All -Way Stop Control Hermosa Beach 13. Valley Drive & Gould Avenue All -Way Stop Control Hermosa Beach Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-8 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-4 STUDY INTERSECTIONS Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-9 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-9 STUDY ROADWAY SEGMENTS Segment Location Functional Classification LanesCapacity Daily 1. Hermosa Avenue 27th Street to 22nd Street Collector 4 22,000 2. Hermosa Avenue 22nd Street to 16th Street Collector 4 22,000 3. Hermosa Avenue 16th Street to 8th Street Arterial 4 29,000 4. Hermosa Avenue 8th Street to Herondo Street Arterial 4 29,000 5. Valley Drive Gould Avenue to Pier Avenue Local 2 15,000 6. Valley Drive Pier Avenue to 8th Street Collector 2 15,000 7. Ardmore Avenue 16th Street to 11th Street Local 2 15,000 8. Ardmore Avenue 8th Street to 2nd Street Local 2 15,000 9. Pacific Coast Highway Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard Arterial 6 44,000 10. Pacific Coast Highway Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street Arterial 6 44,000 11. Prospect Avenue Artesia Blvd to Aviation Boulevard Collector 2 15,000 12. Prospect Avenue Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street Collector 2 15,000 13. Artesia Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue Arterial 4 29,000 14. Aviation Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue Arterial 4 29,000 15. Pier Avenue Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive Collector 4 29,000 16. Pier Avenue Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway Arterial 4 29,000 17. Gould Avenue Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway Collector 4 22,000 18. 8th Street Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive Collector 2 15,000 19. 8th Street Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue Local 2 2,500 20. Herondo Street Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive Arterial 2 13,000 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-10 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-5 STUDY ROADWAY SEGMENTS Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-11 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Traffic study guidelines published by the City of Hermosa Beach (in the existing Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element [1990]), by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and in the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program were used to analyze the operation of each study location under Existing (2015) traffic conditions as detailed below. City of Hermosa Beach Level of service standards for intersections in Hermosa Beach are outlined in the existing City of Hermosa Beach Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element (1990). The City maintains a policy of LOS C or better for both signalized and unsignalized intersections during weekday morning peak and evening peak hours. Traffic study guidelines established by the City of Hermosa Beach require the Intersection Capacity Utilization (ICU) methodology for LOS analyses of signalized intersections. The ICU method measures the volume -to -capacity (V/C) ratio (rated on a scale of 0 to 1.000) on a critical lane basis and determines level of service associated with each critical V/C ratio. For unsignalized intersections, LOS is calculated using the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) methodology. The HCM method determines the average control delay (in seconds per vehicle) and determines level of service based on the average intersection delay for all vehicles. Table 4.14-10 (Level of Service Thresholds) shows level of service thresholds for both the ICU and HCM methodologies. TABLE 4.14-10 LEVEL OF SERVICE THRESHOLDS Level of Service V/C Ratio (ICU Signalized) Control Delay in Seconds (HCM Signalized) Control Delay in Seconds (HCM Unsignalized) A 0.00 to 0.60 0.0 to 10.0 0.0 to 10.0 B 0.61 to 0.70 10.1 to 20.0 10.1 to 15.0 C 0.71 to 0.80 20.1 to 35.0 15.1 to 25.0 D 0.81 to 0.90 35.1 to 55.0 25.1 to 35.0 E 0.91 to 1.00 55.1 to 80.0 35.1 to 50.0 F 1.01 or greater 80.1 or greater 50.1 or greater Source: Transportation Research Board 2010 For the analysis of roadway segments, the City maintains a policy of LOS D for arterial mid -block segments that are based on average daily traffic volumes. Level of service is determined based on a V/C ratio calculated using daily capacities (Table 4.14-9) and applies LOS thresholds that are consistent with the criteria for signalized intersections in Hermosa Beach. California Department of Transportation Caltrans (2002) developed the Guide for the Preparation of Traffic Impact Studies to establish standards and guidelines for the analysis of traffic impacts generated by local development and land use change proposals that affect traffic along state highway facilities. LOS standards for intersections under the jurisdiction of Caltrans require State-controlled intersections to be under the target threshold of LOS D as measured using the HCM methodology. Congestion Management Program The Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program (CMP) is a State -mandated program administered by Metro that provides a mechanism for coordinating regional land use and development decisions in conjunction with the California Environmental Quality Act PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-12 4.14 TRANSPORTATION (CEQA). The CMP requires arterial intersection analysis at CMP monitoring locations where the proposed project will add 50 or more peak -hour vehicle trips. Intersections are analyzed using ICU methodology and require a minimum level of service of LOS E. Only one study intersection in Hermosa Beach, Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard, is a CMP monitoring location. CMP guidelines for roadway analysis require freeway mainline analysis at monitoring locations where the proposed project will add 150 or more peak -hour vehicle trips. The CMP identifies a minimum level of service requirement of LOS E. The closest freeway mainline monitoring location is Interstate 405. Existing (2015) Level of Service Results The existing peak -hour traffic volumes shown in Appendix C-17 were analyzed using the analysis methodologies described above to determine the existing operating conditions at the selected intersections for analysis under existing conditions. LOS calculation worksheets are included in Appendix G. Of the 13 intersections, 12 operate at LOS C or better under Existing (2015) peak - hour traffic conditions (Table 4.14-11 (Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service: City of Hermosa Beach) and Figure 4.14-6 (Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service)). Only one intersection currently operates at LOS D, below the adopted standard: Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street (AM peak hour). TABLE 4.14-11 EXISTING (2015) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE: CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH Intersection Intersection Control Peak Hour Existing V/C or Delay (sec) LOS 1. Hermosa Avenue & 13th Street Signal AM PM 0.302 0.335 A A 2. Hermosa Avenue & Pier Avenue Signal AM PM 0.384 0.324 A A 3. Pacific Coast Highway & Artesia Boulevard Signal AM PM 0.732 0.767 C C 4. Pacific Coast Highway & Aviation Boulevard Signal AM 0.777 C PM 0.743 C 5. Pacific Coast Highway & Pier Avenue Signal AM PM 0.565 0.703 A C 6. Pacific Coast Highway & 2nd Street Signal AM PM 0.678 0.696 B B 7. Pacific Coast Highway & 16th Street Signal AM 0.526 A PM 0.636 B AM 0.590 A 8. Pacific Coast Highway & 21st Street Signal PM 0.668 B 9. Prospect Avenue & Artesia Boulevard Signal AM PM 0.709 0.749 C C 10. Prospect Avenue & Aviation Boulevard Signal AM 0.691 B PM 0.763 C 11. Prospect Avenue & Anita Street Signal AM PM 0.727 0.645 C B 12. Manhattan Avenue & 27th Street/Greenwich Village All -Way Stop Control AM PM 27.6 16.1 C B 13. Valley Drive & Gould Avenue All Way AM 21.2 C Stop Control PM 24.2 C Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 (see Appendix G) City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-13 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-6 EXISTING (2015) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-14 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Six study intersections along Pacific Coast Highway also require analysis under Caltrans operating standards. Under Existing (2015) traffic conditions, all analyzed intersections currently operate at or above the target LOS D standard, as shown in Table 4.14-12 (Existing (2015) Intersection Level of Service: Caltrans). TABLE 4.14-12 EXISTING (2015) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE: CALTRANS Intersection Intersection Control Peak Hour Existing Delay (sec) LOS 3. Pacific Coast Highway & Artesia Boulevard Signal AM 54.3 D PM 52.7 D AM 25.8 C 4. Pacific Coast Highway & Aviation Boulevard Signal PM 36.4 D 5. Pacific Coast Highway & Pier Avenue Signal AM 17.6 B PM 22.0 C 6. Pacific Coast Highway & 2nd Street Signal AM 10.9B PM 11.4 B AM 28.8 C 7. Pacific Coast Highway & 16th Street Signal PM 35.5 D 8. Pacific Coast Highway & 21st Street Signal AM 11.7 B PM 5.3 A Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 (see Appendix G) Level of service results for highways and roadways are shown in Table 4.14-13 (Existing (2015) Roadway Segment Level of Service). Since the publication of the City's Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element in 1990, the AM and PM peak period configurations of Pacific Coast Highway have changed due to parking restrictions, and the daily capacity values have been updated to reflect these changes. The configurations of all other segments are consistent with the existing 1990 element. Of the 20 selected street segments, 15 currently operate at LOS D or better, as shown in Figure 4.14-7 (Existing (2015) Roadway Segment Level of Service). Five street segments currently operate at LOS E and/or LOS F, below the adopted standard: • Pacific Coast Highway between Artesia Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard • Pacific Coast Highway between Aviation Boulevard and 2nd Street • Artesia Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue • Aviation Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue • Herondo Street between Hermosa Avenue and Valley Drive City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-15 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-13 EXISTING (2015) ROADWAY SEGMENT LEVEL OF SERVICE Street Segment Lanes Capacity Volume Daily Volume V/C LOS 1. Hermosa Avenue from 27th Street to 22nd Street 4 22,000 8,374 0.381 A 2. Hermosa Avenue from 22nd Street to 16th Street 4 22,000 8,007 0.364 A 3. Hermosa Avenue from 16th Street to 8th Street 4 29,000 11,128 0.384 A 4. Hermosa Avenue from 8th Street to Herondo Street 4 29,000 9,077 0.313 A 5. Valley Drive from Gould Avenue to Pier Avenue 2 15,000 5,044 0.336 A 6. Valley Drive from Pier Avenue to 8th Street 2 15,000 6,509 0.434 A 7. Ardmore Avenue from 16th Street to llth Street 2 15,000 4,226 0.282 A 8. Ardmore Avenue from 8th Street to 2nd Street 2 15,000 3,005 0.200 A 9. Pacific Coast Highway from Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard 6 44,000 43,854 0.997 E 10. Pacific Coast Highway from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street 6 44,000 51,437 1.169 F 11. Prospect Avenue from Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard 2 15,000 6,177 0.412 A 12. Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street 2 15,000 11,924 0.795 C 13. Artesia Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 4 .29,000 26,354 0.909 E 14. Aviation Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 4 29,000 25,721 0.887 D 15. Pier Avenue from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 4 29,000 13,352 0.460 A 16. Pier Avenue from Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway 4 29,000 14,314 0.494 A 17. Gould Avenue from Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway 4 22,000 13,256 0.603 B 18. 8th Street from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 2 15,000 2,616 0.174 A 19. 8th Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 2 2,500 350 0.140 A 20. Herondo Street from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 2 13,000 11,263 0.866 D Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 (see Appendix G) PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-16 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-7 EXISTING (2015) ROADWAY SEGMENT LEVEL OF SERVICE Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-17 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14 TRANSPORTATION 4.14.3 REGULATORY SETTING Federal, state, regional, and local laws, regulations, and policies provide the regulatory framework for addressing the aspects of transportation planning and infrastructure that would be affected by implementation of PLAN Hermosa. The regulatory setting is used to inform decision -makers about the regulatory agencies and policies that affect transportation in the city and is detailed below. FEDERAL • Americans with Disabilities Act: Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public programs, services, and amenities be accessible for persons of all abilities. Governments must adopt ADA Standards for Accessible Design as technical requirements for new constructions, alterations, and architectural changes in order to achieve accessibility goals. STATE • Assembly Bill 417: Assembly Bill (AB) 417 creates a statutory exemption from CEQA for bicycle transportation plans for an urbanized area in certain instances. Specifically, the bill exempts the following types of bicycle transportation plans or projects prepared pursuant to Streets and Highways Code Section 891.2 for an urbanized area if those projects have been described at a reasonably high level of detail: restriping of streets and highways, bicycle parking and storage, signal timing to improve street and highway intersection operations, and related signage for bicycles, pedestrians, and vehicles. It does not exempt all potential impacts of a bike plan, such as a new path through a natural area, for example. Prior to determining that a bicycle plan is exempt, the lead agency is required to do both of the following: (1) hold properly noticed public hearings in areas affected by the bicycle transportation plan to hear and respond to public comments, and (2) include measures in the bicycle transportation plan to mitigate potential bicycle and pedestrian safety and traffic impacts. • Assembly Bill 1358: The Complete Streets Act of 2008 (AB 1358) requires cities and counties to include Complete Streets policies in their general plan circulation elements. The act requires the consideration of multiple users of the transportation system, including children, adults, seniors, and the disabled, and designing and building streets so that people of all ages and abilities can travel easily, safely, and by all modes. • California Coastal Act: The California Coastal Act of 1976 dictates certain policies related to shoreline resources, including transportation issues related to state shorelines. While the act does not include a section specifically regarding transportation issues, it does state how development must maintain access to coastal resources and maintain or distribute parking supply or adequate public transportation so as to minimize adverse impacts. • Senate Bill 375 - California Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act: Passed in 2008 by the California legislature, Senate Bill (SB) 375 requires the state's metropolitan planning organizations to develop a sustainable communities strategy (SCS) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles and light trucks through integrated transportation, land use, housing, and environmental planning. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is the metropolitan planning organization with jurisdiction in Hermosa Beach and the region. Senate Bill 743: SB 743 creates a process to change the way transportation impacts are analyzed under CEQA. The law will require the potential elimination or de-emphasizing of auto delay, level of service, and other similar measures of vehicular capacity or traffic congestion as a basis for determining significant transportation impacts in CEQA analysis in transportation priority zones. To implement this intent, SB 743 contains amendments to PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017: 4.14 TRANSPORTATION current congestion management law that allows cities and counties to effectively opt out of the LOS standards that would otherwise apply in areas where Congestion Management Plans are still used. The California Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) has released draft recommendations that level of service and other delay -based metrics be potentially replaced with other transportation metrics including but not limited to vehicle miles traveled (VMT), vehicle trips generated, VMT per capita, and vehicle trips per capita. SB 743 does not prevent a city or county from continuing to analyze delay or LOS as a check of consistency with adopted plans (i.e., the general plan), studies, or ongoing network monitoring, but these metrics may no longer constitute the basis for determining CEQA transportation impacts. • State Transportation Improvement Program: Caltrans provides for the mobility of people, goods, services, and information. The agency renders administrative support for transportation programming decisions made by the California Transportation Commission and Caltrans. The State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is a multiyear capital improvement program that sets priorities and funds transportation projects envisioned in long-range transportation plans. STIP programming generally occurs every two years. The STIP is a resource management document to assist state and local entities to plan and implement transportation improvements and to use available resources in a cost- effective manner. The STIP lists all capital improvement projects that are expected to receive an allocation of state transportation funds from the California Transportation Commission during the following five years. The STIP consists of two broad programs: the regional program is funded using 75 percent of new STIP funding, while the interregional program is funded using 25 percent of the same source. The 75 percent regional program is further subdivided by formula into county shares. REGIONAL • LA Metro First Last Mile Strategic Plan: The goal of the First Last Mile Strategic Plan is to extend the reach of transit services in order to increase transit ridership. The policy ensures that access to Metro transit facilities is easy, safe, and efficient and fosters a high level of connectivity among various transit services and among bicycle and pedestrian facilities. • Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program: State statute requires that a congestion management program be developed, adopted, and updated biennially for every county that includes an urbanized area. The CMP, administered by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, is a mechanism for coordinating land use and development decisions that addresses the impact of local growth on the regional transportation system. Statutory elements of the CMP include highway and roadway system monitoring, multimodal system performance analysis, the Transportation Demand Management Program, the Land Use Analysis Program, and local conformance for all the county's jurisdictions. • Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan: Metro, the State -designated transportation planning and programming agency for Los Angeles County, developed the Long Range Transportation Plan as a long-range vision for the transportation system that reflects both regional needs and local concerns. The 2009 plan is the guiding policy behind funding decisions on subsequent transportation projects and programs in Los Angeles County. The plan reflects Metro's mobility priorities for regional, state, and federal governments to qualify for transportation funds. Metro's Tong -range priorities coincide with the SCAG Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy. Consistency between these planning efforts ensures that transportation priorities are eligible for federal funding. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-19 • S 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • SCAG Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy: In April 2012, SCAG adopted the 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS). The plan involves stakeholders from six counties in Southern California with a shared vision for the region's sustainable future. The RTP/SCS is a regional transportation plan that is driven by a strong commitment toward reducing emissions from transportation sources set forth by SB 375 and meeting the national ambient air quality standards for compliance with the federal Clean Air Act. The plan focuses on the interconnected components of economic, social, and transportation investments required to improve public health and achieve a sustainable regional multimodal transportation system. • South Bay Bicycle Master Plan: The South Bay Bicycle Master Plan (SBBMP) was funded by the Los Angeles County Department of Health's RENEW grant initiative in 2010 to facilitate more cycling and bike infrastructure in seven participating cities in the South Bay region. The City of Hermosa Beach adopted the SBBMP in 2011 and proposes an additional 9.2 miles of bicycle facilities within the city that include connections with other SBBMP facilities in Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. The plan prioritizes investments in bicycle infrastructure and incorporates a comprehensive implementation program for the planning of routes and facilities into the circulation network. LOCAL • Aviation Boulevard Master Plan: This plan focuses on the transformation of Aviation Boulevard into a thriving corridor that will act as a gateway into Hermosa Beach and prioritize the development of pedestrian -oriented facilities. • Beach Cities Livability Plan: The Beach Cities Livability Plan, fostered by the Healthways Blue Zones (Vitality City) Initiative, focuses on how to improve livability and well-being in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Redondo Beach through land use and transportation systems that better support active living. The plan was adopted by each city and includes recommendations to (1) develop a regional pedestrian master plan, (2) adopt and implement the SBBMP, and (3) improve and enhance Safe Routes to School programs. • City of Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan: The Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) addresses parking supply and protection in the Coastal Zone. Policies under the CLUP require that access to coastal resources be accessible to all through the implementation of various parking management strategies. Specific CLUP policies include a prohibition against the elimination of existing on- or off-street parking within the Coastal Zone, the control of congestion through the granting of preferential parking permits, and the separation of short- and long-term porkers in the immediate area around the beach. • City of Hermosa Beach Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy: The Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy is a comprehensive approach to increasing the vitality of Downtown. The strategy requires public and private initiatives including capital improvement projects, changes to parking and zoning, and parking requirements involving private development. • City of Hermosa Beach Living Streets Policy: The goal of the City's Living Streets Policy is to promote the health and mobility of all Hermosa Beach residents and visitors through provision of high quality pedestrian, bicycling, and transit access to destinations across the city. The policy provides a checklist of procedures that evaluate street projects through a comprehensive "sustainability" lens. It ensures that the various segments of the community—not just vehicle drivers—are considered when determining how to use and improve the public right-of-way. PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-20 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code: The Municipal Code includes regulations and standards governing traffic, parking and loading, encroachments on the public right-of- way, and development. • City of Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan: Section 3 of the City's Sustainability Plan addresses transportation through policies and infrastructure improvements that encourage bicycling, walking, and other alternative modes of transportation as part of the City's greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals and Complete Streets policy. • City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan: The City's Emergency Operations Plan seeks to identify emergency evacuation protocols in order to establish a comprehensive, all -hazards approach to natural, man-made, and technological disasters. • Pacific Coast Highway Streetscape Master Pian: The Master Plan was implemented in 2013 to improve economic development through the revitalization of Downtown and entry corridors along Pacific Coast Highway. PLAN HERMOSA POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS PLAN Hermosa is the City of Hermosa Beach's integrated General Plan update and Coastal Land Use Plan for the guidance of development and land use projects into the buildout year 2040. In addition to the Mobility Element, PLAN Hermosa's Sustainability + Conservation, Parks + Open Space, and Infrastructure elements all incorporate aspects of sustainable transportation development. The elements include policies intended to effectively manage and maintain the city's circulation system with the goal of minimizing congestion, increasing local and regional access opportunities, and enhancing traffic circulation by reducing vehicle trips and increasing access to non -motorized and low -carbon transportation options such as walking, bicycling, and transit. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions that address transportation include the following. Policies Mobility Element • 1.1 Consider all modes. Require the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. • 1.2 Street classification design standards. Create context -sensitive street classification design standards that will provide the City and adjacent land uses with consistent designs that accommodate multiple modes of travel. • 2.1 Prioritize public right-of-ways. Prioritize improvements of public right-of-ways that provide heightened levels of safe, comfortable and attractive public spaces for all non - motorized travelers while balancing the needs of efficient vehicular circulation. • 2.2 Encourage traffic calming. Encourage traffic calming policies and techniques to improve the efficient movement of people and along residential areas and highly trafficked corridors. • 2.5 Require sustainable practices. Incorporate environmental sustainability practices into designs and strategic management of road space and public right-of-ways, prioritizing practices that can serve multiple infrastructure purposes. • 3.1 Enhance public right-of-ways. Where right-of-way clearance allows, enhance public right-of-ways to improve connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-21 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • 3.2 Complete pedestrian network. Prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities and connectivity to destinations. • 3.3 Active transportation. Require commercial development or redevelopment projects and residential projects with four or more units to accommodate active transportation by providing on-site amenities, necessary connections to existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks, and incorporate people -oriented design practices. • 3.4 Access opportunities. Provide enhanced mobility and access opportunities for local transportation and transit services in areas of the city with sufficient density and intensity of uses, mix of appropriate uses, and supportive bicycle and pedestrian network connections that can reduce vehicle trips within the city's busiest corridors. • 3.5 Incentivize other modes. Incentivize local shuttle/trolley services, rideshare and car share programs, and developing infrastructure that support low speed, low carbon (e.g. electric) vehicles. • 3.6 Complete bicycle network. Provide a complete bicycle network along all designated roadways while creating connections to other modes of travel including walking and transit. • 3.8 Encourage shared streets. Encourage the concept of shared streets on low volume streets with limited right-of-ways. • 4.1 Shared parking. Facilitate park -once and shared parking policies among private developments that contribute to a shared parking supply and interconnect with adjacent parking facilities. • 4.5 Sufficient bicycle parking. Require a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. • 4.6 Priority parking. Provide priority parking and charging stations to accommodate the use of Electric Vehicles (EVs), including smaller short -distance neighborhood electric vehicles. • 4.8 Ensure commercial parking. Ensure that prime commercial parking spaces are available for customers and other short-term users throughout the day. • 4.9 Encourage TDM strategies. Encourage use of transportation demand management strategies and programs such as carpooling, ride hailing, and alternative transportation modes as a way to reduce demand for additional parking supply. • 5.1 Prioritize development of infrastructure. Prioritize the development of roadway and parking infrastructure that encourages private electric and other low carbon vehicle ownership and use throughout the city. • 5.2 Local transit system. Develop a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport of residents, hotel guests, and beachgoers between activity centers and to Downtown businesses and the beach. • 5.3 Incentivize TDM strategies. Incentivize the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies as a cost effective method for maximizing existing transportation infrastructure to accommodate mobility demands without significant expansion to infrastructure. • 5.4 Evaluate projects. Ensure the evaluation of projects for transportation and traffic impacts under CEQA consider local and statewide goals related to infill development, the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles through active transportation, and the reduction of greenhouse gases, in addition to traditional congestion management impacts. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-22 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. • 6.1 Regional network. Work with government agencies and private sector companies to develop a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network that connects the community to surrounding cities. • 6.2 Regional travel patterns. Consider regional travel patterns when collaborating on regional . transit and transportation projects to ensure investments facilitate greater mobility and access for residents, businesses, and visitors to and from Hermosa Beach. • 6.3 Transportation sharing programs. Facilitate greater local and regional mobility through access to shared equipment or transportation options such as car -sharing and bike sharing. • 6.4 Coordinate with agencies. Coordinate with regional transportation agencies and surrounding cities to improve local access and connections to region -wide public transit services. • 6.5 Coordinate with surrounding cities. Coordinate with surrounding cities to prioritize non - motorized and pedestrian connections to regional facilities and surrounding cities. • 6.6 Greater utilization of BCT. Consider exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Beach Cities Transit system for improved mobility along major corridors and as a potential means of improved regional transit connections. • 7.1 Safe public right-of-ways. Encourage that all public right-of-ways are safe for all users at all times of day where users of all ages and ability feel comfortable participating in both motorized and non -motorized travel. • 7.2 Manage speeds. Monitor vehicle speeds through traffic controls, speed limits, and design features with the intended purpose of minimizing vehicle accidents, creating a pedestrian and bicycle environment, and discouraging cut -through traffic. • 7.3 Provide street lighting. Provide pedestrian -oriented street lighting for enhanced pedestrian and bicycling safety on all minor and major arterial streets. • 7.4 Traffic safety programs. Prioritize traffic safety programs oriented towards safe access to schools and community facilities that focus on walking, biking, and driving in school zones. • 7.5 Appropriate sidewalk widths. Encourage design and construction plans that incorporate sidewalks that are consistent in width to match pedestrian activity. • 7.6 Pro -active traffic enforcement. Conduct pro -active traffic enforcement along streets where high collision rates, high speeds, and other unsafe behaviors are reported. Sustainability + Conservation Element • 1.2 Highest return on investment. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously reduce ongoing operational costs to the City. • 1.6 Demonstration and pilot projects. Utilize demonstration and pilot projects as a means to evaluate the greenhouse gas reduction potential and cost effectiveness of projects. • 2.2 Health and economic benefits. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously provide the greatest economic and health benefits to the community. • 2.3 Grants and incentives. Seek additional sources of funding to support implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects for the City, as well as residents and businesses. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-23 • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • 2.4 Diversify GHG reduction strategies. Pursue a diverse mixture of greenhouse gas reduction strategies across the transportation, energy, waste sectors, commensurate with their share of the community's greenhouse gas emissions. • 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. • 2.6 Greenhouse gas thresholds. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds for use in evaluating non-exempt discretionary projects consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and require projects above that threshold to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, and locally offset the remainder of greenhouse gas emissions produced to meet annual thresholds. • 3.1 Stationary and mobile sources. Seek to improve overall respiratory health for residents through regulation of stationary and mobile sources of air pollution, as feasible. • 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. • 3.3 Fuel efficient fleets. Promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. • 3.4 Landscape equipment. Discourage the use of landscape equipment with two-stroke engines and publicize the benefits and importance of alternative technologies. • 3.5 Clean fuels. Support increased local access to cleaner fuels and cleaner energy by encouraging fueling stations that provide cleaner fuels and energy to the community. • 3.7 Regional air quality. When possible, collaborate with other agencies within the region to improve air quality and meet or exceed state and federal air quality standards through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources, including trucks and passenger vehicles and other large polluters. Parks + Open Space Element • 4.2 Enhanced access points. Increase and enhance access to parks and open space, particularly across major thoroughfares, as well as access points that promote physical activity such as pedestrian- and bike -oriented access points. • 4.3 Safe and efficient trail network. Develop a network of safe and efficient trails, streets, and paths that connect residents, visitors, and neighboring communities to the beach, parks, and activity centers. • 6.3 Safe and accessible connections. Ensure public access points provide safe and accessible connections to The Strand and shoreline; including access for persons with disabilities. • 6.4 Transit access. Coordinate with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to improve regional and local transit access to beach access points. • 6.5 Wayfinding and coastal access. Maximize all forms of access and safety getting to and around the Coastal Zone through infrastructure and wayfinding improvements. • 6.6 Universal access. Provide resources that improve accessibility to the beach for all visitors. • 6.8 High-quality connections. Support high-quality connections to adjacent jurisdictions along The Strand to promote safe and efficient circulation of pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non -motorized uses. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-24 • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION • MOBILITY -10. Set utilization and turnover rate goals and implement dynamically adjusted (demand -based) pricing strategies for public parking supplies. • MOBILITY -11. Develop a smart technology street parking system in the Coastal Zone that includes but is not limited to the following features: • Variable -cost parking linked to demand; • Smart phone application identifying available metered spaces; and • Parking pay -by -card and pay -by -phone programs. • MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. • MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. • MOBILITY -14. Periodically review the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan to consider new or modified facilities and opportunities. • MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. • MOBILITY -16. Install additional bicycle parking facilities and wayfinding signage near the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. • MOBILITY -17. Identify access improvements including, but not limited to, additional bus stop pullouts, bus parking locations, a seasonal shuttle system, and drop off/pick up areas, and prioritize these improvements in the five-year Capital Improvement Program. • MOBILITY -18. In conjunction with the Hermosa Beach City School District, the City will identify school access points, a proposed network, education and enforcement programs to provide a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Program. • MOBILITY -19. Develop congestion management performance measures and significant. impact thresholds that are in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) requirements for roadway segments and intersections. • MOBILITY -20. Establish and maintain a comprehensive alternative fuel vehicle policy that annually identifies current and future charging infrastructure, evaluates installation and operational costs, and identifies funding opportunities, rebates, and incentives to support alternative fuel vehicle deployment. • SUSTAINABILITY -6. Implement the City's clean fleet policy through the purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. • PARKS -8. Identify and evaluate the ADA compliance of parks, public facilities, and coastal public access points. • PARKS -9. Install accessible walkways at parks and onto the beach while minimizing or avoiding negative effects on the aesthetics and ecology of the beach environment. • PARKS -15. Develop and implement a uniform coastal access sign program to assist the public to locate and use coastal access points. Consider adding signs to walk streets that intersect with Hermosa Avenue. • PARKS -16. Identify and remove any unauthorized/unpermitted structures, including signs and fences that inhibit visibility of public coastal access points. • PARKS -17. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-26 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Infrastructure Element • 2.1 Preventive street maintenance. Maintain streets, sidewalks and other public rights-of- way to provide a reliable network for circulation through a proactive preventive maintenance program. • 2.3 Street and sidewalk standards. Require the use of standardized roadway, sidewalk, parkway, curb and gutter designs to ensure continuity and consistency as property redevelops over time. • 2.4 Sidewalk improvements. Consider innovative funding strategies, such as cost-sharing, ADA accessibility grants, or sidewalk dedications, to improve the overall condition, safety, and accessibility of sidewalks. • 2.5 Active transportation dedications. Require new development and redevelopment projects to provide land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as widened sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops, in compliance with ADA accessibility standards. Implementation Actions • GOVERNANCE -4. Continue to participate and partner with neighboring cities and regional organizations to implement projects and achieve goals that enhance the livability of Hermosa Beach. • MOBILITY -1. Conduct an inventory and assessment of the City's sidewalk network to identify gaps, assess ADA accessibility, and prioritize improvements within the Capital Improvement Program. • MOBILITY -2. Evaluate City right-of-ways and establish or update width and design standards for the construction or maintenance of sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and parkways. • MOBILITY -3. Add definitions to the Municipal Code for street classifications, pedestrian facilities, bicycle and multi -use facilities, and transportation amenities. • MOBILITY -4. Install new signage and instructions for accessing transit locations, local and regional bicycle routes, and parking meters/machines in the Coastal Zone where existing meters and machines have been shown to cause confusion for visitors. • MOBILITY -5. Evaluate operations in local neighborhood streets with considerations to speed management strategies and traffic calming measures to increase safety for all people using the street. • MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. • MOBILITY -7. Work with commercial property owners to conduct an assessment for utilization of private parking supplies to supplement private and public parking needs and evaluate the potential for shared use agreements or MOUs. • MOBILITY -8. Implement a contingency -based overflow parking plan to address seasonal and event- based parking demands. • MOBILITY -9. Periodically conduct a city-wide parking study to analyze existing parking infrastructure in order to effectively address and manage current and future parking needs. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-25 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. • INFRASTRUCTURE -6. Aggressively seek regional, state, and federal funds to leverage local money earmarked for projects listed in the CIP. • INFRASTRUCTURE -7. Periodically review, and if needed revise, the development fee schedule to ensure it is adequate and reflective of proposed projects' impacts and required services. 4.14.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE For the purposes of this EIR, impacts on transportation are considered significant if adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would: 1) Conflict with the adopted Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element, which establishes LOS C as the performance standard for signalized and unsignalized intersections and LOS D as the performance standard for roadway segments in addition to Caltrans traffic study guidelines. 2) Conflict with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program. 3) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks. 4) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses. 5) Result in inadequate emergency access. 6) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities. Applicable policies, plans, and programs include but are not limited to the Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan, the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan, and the Hermosa Beach Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy. These thresholds of significance were used to assess significant transportation impacts at the studied signalized intersections and roadway segments. ANALYSIS SCENARIOS The operating conditions of Hermosa Beach's circulation system were analyzed based on a comprehensive evaluation of programs and policies to be adopted and implemented under PLAN Hermosa. With the guidance of federal, state, regional, and local transportation and land use policies, the plan's potential for significant transportation impacts was evaluated under the scenarios described below. Impacts for PLAN Hermosa's horizon year of 2040 were analyzed using SCAG's 2012-2035 RTP/SCS scenario. Transportation and Traffic Existing (2015) The Existing (2015) scenario was developed using new peak -hour and daily traffic counts collected at PLAN Hermosa study intersections and along PLAN Hermosa study segments for the express purpose of this analysis. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-27 • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Future without PLAN Hermosa The Future without Project [PLAN Hermosa] scenario is consistent with land use growth forecasts and transportation improvement projects from the SCAG Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). The 2012 RTP assumed a conservative increase of 300 residents and 900 employees in Hermosa Beach between 2008 and 2035. By 2015, due to a variety of demographic and economic factors, Hermosa Beach had already exceeded the 2035 population projections. Respectively, these represent a 2 percent and a 16 percent increase in population and employment from 2015 estimates. In addition to the regional transportation improvements included in the 2012 RTP, Caltrans has proposed the removal of a travel lane in each direction along Pacific Coast Highway in Hermosa Beach. This redesign will allow for the following design features at various points along the route: new bicycle lanes, wider sidewalks, new landscaped medians, wider vehicle travel lanes, and additional left turn lanes. CEQA requires the evaluation of the existing condition compared to the proposed project and does not require a comparison of two future scenarios. However, for additional context, level of service results for the Future without Project scenario are provided in this study for informational purposes, but are not used to determine whether traffic impacts are considered significant. Future PLAN Hermosa The PLAN Hermosa scenario includes implementation of the plan's programs and policies, regional transportation improvement projects from the 2012 SCAG Regional Transportation Plan, and a land use growth forecast which allows for greater nonresidential development and employment than assumed in the 2012 SCAG RTP. In addition to the regional transportation improvements included in the 2012 RTP, Caltrans has proposed the removal of a travel lane in each direction along Pacific Coast Highway in Hermosa Beach. This redesign will allow for the following design features at various points along the route: new bicycle lanes, wider sidewalks, new landscaped medians, wider vehicle travel lanes, and additional left turn lanes. With a limited inventory of vacant and underutilized land, future development under PLAN Hermosa would occur through infill and redevelopment activities primarily in the Downtown core, the Cypress Avenue District, the Coastal Zone including The Strand, and along Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard. PLAN Hermosa assumes an increase of approximately 300 housing units and 1,500 employees by 2040. These figures represent a 3 percent and a 26 percent increase in population and employment, respectively, from existing estimates. Since the SCAG 2040 RTP model was not available at the time this report was prepared, the adjusted growth projections were added to the 2035 SCAG RTP forecast to identify projections for 2040. No additional transportation improvement projects that would add or remove vehicle capacity beyond the proposed changes to Pacific Coast Highway are assumed under the PLAN Hermosa scenario. Bicycle Network The City of Hermosa Beach adopted the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan (SBBMP) in 2011 with funding provided under the Los Angeles County Department of Health's RENEW grant initiative. The plan seeks to facilitate more bicycle infrastructure in seven participating cities in the South Bay region. The SBBMP proposed bicycle network for Hermosa Beach includes an additional 9.2 miles of bicycle facilities in the city and connects with other SBBMP-recommended networks in Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. Implementation of the SBBMP facilities has already begun. With some modifications to further enhance bicycle facility quality, the remaining planned bicycle facilities are assumed to be developed as part of PLAN Hermosa and are shown in Table 4.14-14 (Planned Hermosa Beach Bicycle Facilities). PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.3.4-28 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-14 PLANNED HERMOSA BEACH BICYCLE FACILITIES Class Street/Path From To Proposed Class I and IV Facilities I Marvin Braude Bike Trail ( The Strand) North City Limits South City Limits IV Prospect Avenue Artesia Boulevard South City Limits IV Hermosa Avenue North City Limits 26th Street Proposed Class II and Class III Facilities II Aviation Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway Harper Avenue II Artesia Boulevard Pacific Coast Highway Harper Avenue II/III Hermosa Avenue North City Limits South City Limits II/III 27th Street/Gould Avenue Hermosa Avenue Pacific Coast Highway III Pier Avenue Hermosa Avenue Pacific Coast Highway III 16th Street Hermosa Avenue Prospect Avenue III Longfellow Avenue Hermosa Avenue Valley Drive III Valley Drive Longfellow Avenue Herondo Street III Morningside Drive 35th Street 26th Street III 5th Street/6th Street Hermosa Avenue Prospect Avenue III 10th Street The Strand Prospect Avenue III 22nd Street/Monterey Boulevard The Strand Herondo Street III 21st Street Ardmore Avenue Prospect Avenue Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY The analysis of potential transportation impacts at the study locations was based on forecast demand volumes from the 2012 SCAG RTP travel demand model, a trip -based four -step model. No modifications to the model's traffic analysis zone system or roadway network were implemented beyond those changes described above, which were necessary to model the Future without Project and PLAN Hermosa scenarios. The methods used are documented in Appendix G-5. Although the SCAG regional model can quantify the benefits of broad changes in land use development patterns that would increase density and improve network connectivity, the model is not able to accurately predict trip generation for mixed-use and urban infill sites with transit proximity and a density, scale, and design that can facilitate walking, biking, and other alternative travel options. In order to reflect the benefits of smaller -scale improvements included in PLAN Hermosa, the City's traffic consultant used the TDM+ model to quantify potential reductions in trip generation and VMT that could occur by 2040 with full buildout and implementation of PLAN Hermosa. Fehr & Peers worked with the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) to develop the transportation section of the report Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. This report is now used as a set of guidelines for quantifying the environmental benefits of mitigation measures. The CAPCOA guidelines were developed by conducting a comprehensive literature review of studies documenting the effects of transportation demand management (TDM) strategies on reducing VMT. Using the results of this study, Fehr & Peers developed TDM+, a quick response tool that demonstrates trip reductions from commonly used TDM strategies. The tool also accounts for the interaction among different measures in various City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-29 • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION categories to avoid double counting. The following strategies were selected from the TDM+ tool to model the changes that could occur with implementation of PLAN Hermosa. • Traffic Calming: Based on Mobility Element Policies 2.2 and 7.2, traffic calming measures encourage people to walk or bike instead of using a vehicle. Roadways will be designed to reduce motor vehicle speeds and encourage pedestrian and bicycle trips with traffic calming features. TDM+ estimates up to a 0.3 percent reduction in VMT in response to traffic calming programs. • Car -Sharing Programs: Based on Mobility Element Policies 4.9 and 6.3, implementing a car -sharing program will allow people to have on -demand access to a shared fleet of vehicles on an as -needed basis. Car -sharing programs may be grouped into three general categories: residential- or citywide -based, employer -based, and transit station - based. TDM+ estimates up to a 1.0 percent reduction in VMT in response to establishing car -sharing programs. • Parking Management: Based on Mobility Element Policies 4.1, 4.5, 4.6, and 4.8, parking management strategies include changing parking requirements to encourage smart growth development and alternative transportation choices by residents and employees in the city. These could include reduction of minimum parking requirements, creation of maximum parking requirements, provision of shared parking, or market-based pricing strategies to encourage park -once behavior. TDM+ estimates up to a 10.5 percent reduction in VMT in response to establishing parking management programs. • Commute Trip Reduction Programs: Based on Mobility Element Policies 2.5, 3.4, 4.9, and 6.3, commute trip reduction strategies include City facilitation of a SchoolPool in which parents of local schoolchildren living near one another are matched to transport students to school in a carpool, and expansion of walking school bus services to accommodate any local schoolchild whose parents wish to use the walking school bus program. TDM+ estimates up to a 14.7 percent reduction in VMT in response to establishing these programs. The combined benefit of the PLAN Hermosa strategies as estimated through the TDM+ tool is a 12.9 percent reduction in the number of vehicle trips generated and VMT compared with the demand estimates from the SCAG RTP model. These reductions have been applied to the vehicle demand forecasts for the project scenario, and the methods and empirical research used to estimate VMT reductions are documented in Appendix G-6. SENATE BILL 743 The California Governor's Office of Planning and Research released SB 743 guidelines in a document entitled Updating Transportation Impacts Analysis in the CEQA Guidelines in August 2014. At the time of the time of the drafting of this report, a revised set of draft guidelines have been published and OPR is reviewing public comment, which closed in early 2016, and adoption is anticipated in early 2017. The revised CEQA Guidelines will establish new potential criteria for determining the significance of transportation impacts and define alternative metrics to replace LOS in transit priority areas. The legislation does not preclude the application of local general plan policies, zoning codes, conditions of approval, or any other planning requirements in a non-CEQA context. Under SB 743, OPR proposes to replace level of service with VMT and provides guidance on potential significance thresholds for the analysis of transportation impacts related to development projects, land use plans, and transportation infrastructure projects in transit priority areas. Outside of transit priority areas, lead agencies may elect to be governed by the new guidelines once they go into effect. Since SB 743 implementation is still evolving and will change over time, a defined set of analysis steps to meet all aspects of the law cannot be defined at this PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-30 4.14 TRANSPORTATION. time. The City of Hermosa Beach does not have adopted thresholds for evaluating a project's VMT. Since new analysis metrics and thresholds of significance are still under development, the evaluation of vehicle miles traveled conducted for this EIR is strictly an informative exercise and will not be compared to any impact guidelines. The 2012 SCAG RTP model was used to estimate VMT by isolating trips that start or end within the city boundaries, also known as the Origin -Destination Method. The estimates include all VMT for trips that begin and end in the city, but only half of the VMT for trips that only begin or end in the city. VMT for trips that pass through the city without stopping are not included. VMT estimates for the Existing (2015), Future without Project, and PLAN Hermosa scenarios are shown in Table 4.14-15 (Daily Citywide Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips (VT) Generated). VMT per capita and vehicle trips per capita estimates are also provided using the sum of population and employment as the capita basis. TABLE 4.14-15 DAILY CITYWIDE VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED (VMT) AND VEHICLE TRIPS (VT) GENERATED Scenario Population Employment Capita VMT Avg. Trip Length (miles)VT LOS E VMT/ Capita VT/ Capita 2015 Existing 19,800 5,700 25,500 363,000 9.4 38,700 14.2 1.52 2040 Future without Project 20,100 6,600 26,700 356,000 9.6 37,200 13.3 1.39 2040 PLAN Hermosa 20,400 7,200 27,600 326,000 9.4 34,200 11.8 1.25 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach The existing Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element (1990) maintains a policy of LOS C or better for both signalized and unsignalized intersections during weekday morning and evening peak hours. City standards do not specify a particular analysis methodology or significance criteria to be used when evaluating unsignalized intersections or roadway segments, nor do they specify level of service requirements beyond LOS D. The impact criteria shown in Table 4.14-16 (Hermosa Beach Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria), Table 4.14-17 (Hermosa Beach Unsignalized Intersection Impact Criteria), and Table 4.14-18 (Hermosa Beach Roadway Segment Impact Criteria) have been established for signalized intersections, unsignalized intersections, and roadway segments. TABLE 4.14-26 HERMOSA BEACH SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION IMPACT CRITERIA Level of Service Impact Threshold LOS A, B, or C Degrades to LOS D, E, or F LOS D Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.02, or degrades to LOS E or F LOS E Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.05, or degrades to LOS F LOS F Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.05 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-31 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-17 HERMOSA BEACH UNSIGNALIZED INTERSECTION IMPACT CRITERIA Level of Service Impact Threshold LOS A, B, or C Degrades to LOS D, E, or F LOS D, E, or F Increase in intersection traffic volume greater than or equal to 10% Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 TABLE 4.14-18 HERMOSA BEACH ROADWAY SEGMENT IMPACT CRITERIA Level of Service Impact Threshold LOS A, B, or C Degrades to LOS D, E, or F LOS D Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.02, or degrades to LOS E or F LOS E Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.05, or degrades to LOS F LOS F Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.05 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 1990 California Department of Transportation The impact criteria for signalized intersections under Caltrans jurisdiction are shown in Table 4.14-19 (Caltrans Signalized Intersection Impact Criteria), which establishes a target of LOS D and significance criteria defined as maintaining the existing level of service when the target LOS is exceeded. TABLE 4.14-19 CALTRANS SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION IMPACT CRITERIA Level of Service Impact Threshold LOS A, B, C, or D Degrades to LOS E or F LOS E Degrades to LOS F LOS F Any increase in average control delay Source: Caltrans 2002 Congestion Management Program The CMP statute requires establishment of LOS standards to measure congestion on the system and identifies a minimum level of service requirement of LOS E for analysis of studied intersections and roadway segments. Significant impacts are identified if there is an increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.02 and the LOS degrades to F or is already at F. The impact criteria for CMP arterial monitoring locations are shown in Table 4.14-20 (Congestion Management Program Impact Criteria). TABLE 4.14-20 CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM IMPACT CRITERIA Level of Service Impact Threshold LOS A, B, C, D, or E Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.02 and degrades to LOS F LOS F Increase in V/C ratio greater than or equal to 0.02 Source: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority 2010 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-32 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT 4.14-1 Would PLAN Hermosa Cause an Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Three intersections and one segment would experience a significant impact. Table 4.14-21 (Future (2040) Intersection Level of Service: City of Hermosa Beach) compares the intersection level of service for the Existing (2015) and 2040 PLAN Hermosa scenarios. Figure 4.14-8 (PLAN Hermosa (2040) Intersection Level of Service) shows the level of service for the 2040 PLAN Hermosa scenario. Despite reduced vehicle miles traveled overall and per capita that would result with implementation of PLAN Hermosa, changes in vehicular travel patterns result in three of the 13 studied intersections under the PLAN Hermosa scenario operating below the LOS C standard during the AM and/or PM peak hours. • Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard (AM and PM peak hour) • Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard (AM peak hour) • Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street (AM peak hour) City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-33 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-21 FUTURE (2040) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE: CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH Intersection Inter- section Control Peak Hou r Existing2040 without PLAN Hermosa PLAN Hermosa Existing vs. PLAN Hermosa V/C LOS V/C LOS V/C LOS Change in V/C Sig. Impact 1. Hermosa Ave AM 0.302 A 0.347 A 0.319 A 0.017 NO & 13th St Signal PM 0.335 A 0.388 A 0.357 A 0.022 NO 2. Hermosa Ave AM 0.384 A 0.457 A 0.414 A 0.030 NO & Pier Ave Signal PM 0.324 A 0.391 A 0.356 A 0.032 NO 3. Pacific Coast AM 0.732 C 0.928 E 0.809 D 0.077 YES Hwy & Artesia Signal Blvd PM 0.767 C 0.969 E 0.851 D 0.084 YES 4. Pacific Coast AM 0.777 C 0.987 E 0.870 D 0.093 YES Hwy & Aviation Signal Blvd PM 0.743 C 0.762 C 0.681 B -0.062 NO 5. Pacific Coast Signal AM 0.565 A 0.703 C 0.619 B 0.054 NO Hwy & Pier Ave PM 0.703 C 0.838 D 0.741 C 0.038 NO 6. Pacific Coast Signal AM 0.678 B 0.825 D 0.744 C 0.066 NO Hwy & 2nd St PM 0.696 B 0.807 D 0.732 C 0.036 NO 7. Pacific Coast AM 0.526 A 0.623 B 0.561 A 0.035 NO Hwy 16th St Y Signal PM 0.636 B 0.751 C 0.670 B 0.034 NO 8. Pacific Coast AM 0.590 A 0.682 B 0.610 B 0.020 NO Hwy & 21st St Signal PM 0.668 B 0.822 D 0.729 C 0.061 NO 9. Prospect Ave AM 0.709 C 0.844 D 0.740 C 0.031 NO & Artesia Blvd Signal PM 0.749 C 0.856 D 0.751 C 0.002 NO 10. Prospect Ave AM 0.691 B 0.785 C 0.691 B 0.000 NO & Aviation Blvd Signal PM 0.763 C 0.838 D 0.737 C -0.026 NO 11. Prospect Ave AM 0.727 C 0.769 C 0.690 B -0.037 NO & Anita St Signal PM 0.645 B 0.750 C 0.672 B 0.027 NO 12. Manhattan All -Way AM 27.6 C 45.1 D 38.2 D 10.6 YES Ave & 27th St Control PM 16.1 B 38.6 D 21.2 C 5.1 NO 13. Valley Drive All -Way AM 21.2 C 29.9 C 18.1 C -3.1 NO & Gould Ave Stop Control PM 24.2 C 39.7 D 20.8 C -3.4 NO Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-34 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 4.14-8 PLAN HERMOSA (2040) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-35 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Table 4.14-22 (Future (2040) Intersection Level of Service: Caltrans) presents a comparison of future intersection level of service along Pacific Coast Highway, analyzed using the HCM methodology. One of the six studied intersections under the PLAN Hermosa scenario is anticipated to operate below the LOS D standard during the AM and/or PM peak hours. • Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard (PM peak hour) TABLE 4.14-22 FUTURE (2040) INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE: CALTRANS Intersection Inter- section Control Peak Hou r Existing2040 without PLAN Hermosa PLAN Hermosa Existing vs. PLAN Hermosa Delay LOS Delay LOS Delay LOS Change in V/C Sig. Impact 3. Pacific Coast AM 54.3 D 63.4 E 52.6 D -1.7 NO Hwy & Artesia Signal Blvd PM 52.7 D 88.0 F 66.9 E 14.2 YES 4. Pacific Coast AM 25.8 C 65.5 E 50.7 D 24.9 NO Hwy & Aviation Signal Blvd PM 36.4 D 30.2 C 27.7 C -8.7 NO 5. Pacific Coast Signal AM 17.6 B 22.4 C 21.8 C 4.2 NO Hwy & Pier Ave PM 22.0 C 26.3 C 24.4 C 2.4 NO 6. Pacific Coast AM 10.9 B 11.0 B 10.3 B -0.6 NO Hwy 2nd St ry Signal PM 11.4 B 11.6 B 11.0 B -0.4 NO 7. Pacific Coast Signal AM 28.8 C 34.6 C 30.9 C 2.1 NO Hwy & 16th St PM 35.5 D 50.3 D 37.3 D 1.8 NO 8. Pacific Coast AM 11.7 B 15.0 B 12.7 B 1.0 NO Hwy 21st St y Signal PM 5.3 A 7.3 A 6.4 A 1.1 NO Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Table 4.14-23 (Future (2040) Roadway Segment Level of Service) compares the roadway segment level of service results for the future scenarios. Figure 4.14-9 (PLAN Hermosa (2040) Roadway Segment Level of Service) illustrates 2040 roadway segment level of service for the PLAN Hermosa scenario. While four of the 20 analyzed street segments are anticipated to operate below the LOS D standard under PLAN Hermosa traffic conditions, just one segment, Prospect Avenue between Aviation Boulevard and 2nd Street, represents a significant impact because three of the segments already operate at LOS D or below. While the following roadway segments currently operate at LOS D or below, PLAN Hermosa is projected to maintain or improve the volume -to -capacity ratio by 2040 compared to 2015 conditions: • Pacific Coast Highway between Artesia Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard • Pacific Coast Highway between Aviation Boulevard and 2nd Street • Artesia Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-36 4.14 TRANSPORTATION TABLE 4.14-23 FUTURE (2040) ROADWAY SEGMENT LEVEL OF SERVICE Segment Location Existing 2040 w/o PLAN Hermosa PLAN Hermosa Existing vs. PLAN Hermosa V/C LOS V/C LOS V/C LOS Chang e in V/C Sig. Impact 1. Hermosa Avenue 27th Street to 22nd Street 0.381 A 0.473 A 0.414 A 0.033 NO 2. Hermosa Avenue 22nd Street to 16th Street 0.364 A 0.455 A 0.400 A 0.036 NO 3. Hermosa Avenue 16th Street to 8th Street 0.384 A 0.459 A 0.400 A 0.016 NO 4. Hermosa Avenue 8th Street to Herondo Street 0.313 A 0.386 A 0.338 A 0.025 NO 5. Valley Drive Gould Avenue to Pier Avenue 0.336 A 0.340 A 0.300 A -0.036 NO 6. Valley Drive Pier Avenue to 8th Street 0.434 A 0.453 A 0.393 A -0.041 NO 7. Ardmore Avenue 16th Street to 11th Street 0.282 A 0.293 A 0.253 A -0.029 NO 8. Ardmore Avenue 8th Street to 2nd Street 0.200 A 0.213 A 0.187 A -0.013 NO 9. Pacific Coast Highway Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard 0.997 E 1.147 F 0.997 E 0.000 NO 10. Pacific Coast Highway Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street 1.169 F 1.219 F 1.067 F -0.102 NO 11. Prospect Avenue Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard 0.412 A 0.533 A 0.453 A 0.041 NO 12. Prospect Avenue Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street 0.795 C 0.980 E 0.853 D 0.058 YES 13. Artesia Blvd Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 0.909 E 1.024 F 0.876 D -0.033 NO 14. Aviation Blvd Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 0.887 D 0.790 C 0.683 B -0.204 NO 15. Pier Avenue Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 0.460 A 0.462 A 0.407 A -0.053 NO 16. Pier Avenue Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway 0.494 A 0.500 A 0.445 A -0.049 NO 17. Gould Avenue Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway 0.603 B 0.550 A 0.486 A -0.117 NO 18. 8th Street Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 0.174 A 0.167 A 0.160 A -0.014 NO 19. 8th Street Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue 0.140 A 0.080 A 0.080 A -0.060 NO 20. Herondo Street Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive 0.866 D 0.854 D 0.746 C -0.120 NO City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14-37 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14 TRANSPORTATION SOURCE: CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH 2015 FIGURE 4.14-9 PLAN HERMOSA (2040) ROADWAY SEGMENT LEVEL OF SERVICE Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-38 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Per PLAN Hermosa implementation action MOBILITY -12, the City will conduct a periodic update of a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance. However, based on the above discussion and despite implementation action MOBILITY -12, implementation of PLAN Hermosa will conflict with the existing intersection and segment operational standards identified in Hermosa Beach's 1990 Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element, which would be a significant impact. Intersections Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard would be significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in both the morning and evening peak periods. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by alignment issues and Caltrans's plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway, as well as a major change in roadway characteristics, east to west, from Artesia Boulevard to Gould Avenue. Additionally, physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class III bicycle facility planned for Gould Avenue, as well as PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element Policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, and 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations and PLAN Hermosa and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts on traffic operations at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. Therefore, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard The intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by Caltrans's plan to remove a travel lane in each direction on Pacific Coast Highway and improvement plans for the intersection included in the Aviation Boulevard Master Plan, including enhanced crosswalks and repurposing of public right-of-way for parkettes, pedestrian space, or a crossing refuge. Additionally, physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class II bicycle facility planned for Aviation Boulevard, as well as PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element Policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, and 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations to improve level of service and PLAN Hermosa and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts to traffic operations at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. Therefore, this would be a significant and unavoidable impact. Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street The intersection at Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street is significantly impacted by PLAN Hermosa -related traffic in the morning peak period. Opportunities for physical mitigations are limited by existing narrow roadway widths. Additionally, physical mitigations would conflict with the SBBMP Class III bicycle facility planned for 27th Street, as well as PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element Policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, and 7.5. Due to the above-mentioned conflicts between physical mitigations to improve level of service and PLAN Hermosa policies and adopted plans, the significant transportation impacts to traffic operations at the intersection of Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. Therefore, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-39 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Roadway Segments Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street Through implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the roadway segment on Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street would be degraded from its current operation at LOS C to LOS D by 2040. While this is improved from the projected LOS E that would be experienced under the 2040 scenario without PLAN Hermosa, it still represents a significant impact. In order to reduce the projected level of service impacts along Prospect Avenue, the City would need to consider expanding the roadway to accommodate additional vehicles or consider policies that reduce the number of vehicles traveling along the corridor. However, the opportunities for expanding Prospect Avenue to reduce the impacts to level of service are limited by the narrow roadway and the presence of on -street parking. Additionally, physical mitigations to expand roadway capacity along Prospect Avenue would conflict with the intent of SB 743 and many of the proposed PLAN Hermosa policies. Under SB 743 Section 21099(b) (2), vehicular capacity and traffic congestion would no longer be eligible as considerations of significant impact under CEQA. Guidelines established for the implementation of SB 743 further state that roadway capacity expansions in a congested corridor are presumed to cause a significant impact under CEQA due to their effects on induced travel. Physical mitigations would also conflict with the SBBMP bicycle -friendly street bicycle facility planned for Prospect Avenue and with PLAN Hermosa Mobility Element Policies 1.1, 2.1, 3.6, 7.2, and 7.5. Due to the above- mentioned conflicts between capacity expansion mitigations and SB 743, the SBBMP, and PLAN Hermosa policies, the significant transportation impact to traffic operations along the segment of Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. Therefore, this impact would be significant and unavoidable. Mitigation Measures Opportunities for physical mitigation measures, such as restriping of intersection approaches to add turn lanes, were investigated. The emphasis was on identifying physical improvements that could be implemented efficiently and maintain consistency with PLAN Hermosa goals. Mitigation measures were reviewed for compliance or conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals and policies, as well as adopted policies, plans, and programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities. Mitigations that decrease the performance or safety of such facilities were not considered. No mitigation measures could be applied to significantly impacted locations without creating a conflict with PLAN Hermosa goals or other adopted plans. This impact remains significant and unavoidable. IMPACT 4.14-2 Would PLAN Hermosa Conflict with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would maintain the level of service standard for the intersection located at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard and comply with the CMP. This would result in a less than significant impact. The intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard is a CMP -designated intersection. CMP guidelines require arterial intersection analysis at monitoring locations where the proposed project will add 50 or more peak -hour vehicle trips. Forecast traffic growth at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard from Existing (2015) to the future PLAN Hermosa scenario is anticipated to not exceed the CMP threshold for analysis. Therefore, the regional impact on transportation would be less than significant. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-40 4.14 TRANSPORTATION Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-3 Would PLAN Hermosa Alter Air Traffic Patterns? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not modify the planning or operations of Los Angeles International Airport or introduce land use patterns that may cause substantial safety risks to or from air operations. Thus, this impact would be less than significant. Los Angeles International Airport is located approximately 5 miles north of the city. PLAN Hermosa policies and programs related to land use, mobility, and structural heights would not influence air traffic patterns by creating either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks. Therefore, the impacts would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-4 Would PLAN Hermosa Introduce or Create Roadway Design Hazards? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase hazards due to design or incompatible uses. Thus, implementation would result in a less than significant impact. Traffic generated by infill and redevelopment from PLAN Hermosa implementation, as addressed in Impact 4.14-1, would not increase hazards due to design features or incompatible uses. Hermosa Beach's adoption of Living Streets, Complete Streets, and Vision Zero policies prioritizes safety by way of design as a means to encourage increased use of active and other non -motorized travel options and improve mobility for pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users across the city. The following implementation actions support safe design features: MOBILITY -5 will evaluate operations along local neighborhood streets in regard to safety and vehicle speeds; MOBILITY -6 will evaluate and implement traffic calming measures and other safety enhancement features; and PARKS -8 ensures ADA compliance of public access points in future developments in Hermosa Beach. Mobility Element Policy 1.1 requires that all transportation developments consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable, and inviting environments for all users; Policy 3.3 requires that all development or redevelopment projects accommodate active transportation by providing connections to existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks and incorporating pedestrian -oriented design practices; and Policy 7.1 ensures that public rights-of- way are safe for all users at all times of day. To address safety issues regarding conflicts between incompatible users and poorly designed streets, Mobility Element Policy 1.2 supports the development of context -sensitive street classification design standards that will better fit the needs of an increasing preference for multimodal travel options and behaviors. Policy 7.2 seeks to discourage pass-through traffic on local neighborhood streets by means of traffic controls, speed limitations, and design features that create a pedestrian- and bicycle -friendly environment and minimize potential vehicle collisions. Additionally, Policy 7.4 prioritizes programs oriented toward safe access to schools and community facilities that focus on walking, bicycling, and driving in school zones. With the city encompassing approximately 1.4 square miles, active and non -motorized transportation options for local mobility can be convenient and cost-effective travel choices for residents and visitors. As such, Mobility Element Policy 7.5 encourages design and construction plans that improve sidewalk infrastructure to safely accommodate high levels of pedestrian City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-41 • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION activity. Thus, PLAN Hermosa policies, particularly in the Mobility Element, are designed to reduce design hazards and conflicts between incompatible land uses and between all transportation network users. The impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-5 Would PLAN Hermosa Result in Inadequate Emergency Access? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city that could result in inadequate emergency access. However, PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce emergency access program -level impacts to a less than significant level. Emergency vehicles in the city take the fastest and most expedient routes in case of an emergency. In the event of an evacuation, the primary routes used, if available, are Artesia Boulevard, Aviation Boulevard, Herondo Street, and Pacific Coast Highway. PLAN Hermosa policies include a variety of actions aimed at ensuring emergency response readiness, specifically in the Public Safety Element, which ensures that law enforcement, fire protection/emergency medical services, and lifeguard services are adequately provided for Hermosa Beach residents and visitors as well as to maximize emergency services across neighboring jurisdictions. Working within that framework, Public Safety Element Policy 6.1 requires that the City regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans, and Public Safety Policy 5.4 requires that new development provide adequate emergency access in addition to maintaining current levels of emergency services. Implementation of current state and federal regulations, combined with PLAN Hermosa policies, would reduce the potential impacts on emergency preparedness and emergency access in Hermosa Beach. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-6 Would PLAN Hermosa Support the Maintenance and Expansion of Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that supports the maintenance and expansion of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities consistent with adopted local and regional plans. Thus, implementation would result in a less than significant impact. PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions intended to reduce transportation impacts are oriented toward the development of a safe, multimodal, and sustainable transportation system that directly encourages healthy lifestyle choices among Hermosa Beach residents and visitors. Policies under PLAN Hermosa are intended to provide a wide range of transportation options, allowing travelers the flexibility in choosing the transportation option that best fits their needs. Mobility Element Policies 3.1 and 3.4 repurpose public rights-of-way to enhance connectivity among pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit facilities with the objective of reducing total vehicle trips, while Policy 6.1 incentivizes the development of a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network among neighboring communities. In coordination with related policies adopted by the City and surrounding municipalities, the Mobility Element would improve transit, bicycle, and pedestrian connections with the goal of developing a well- balanced circulation system. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-42 4.14 TRANSPORTATION The majority of arterials and local streets throughout the city include sidewalks to accommodate a moderate level of pedestrian activities. Specific key corridors are the 22 walk streets that connect pedestrians between neighborhoods, the Downtown core, and the beach, while walking paths on the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt offer north -south pedestrian connections throughout the length of the city. Mobility Element Policy 3.2 prioritizes investment in the development of a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities. As a means of prioritizing pedestrian safety, Mobility Element Policies 2.1 and 2.2 prioritize the development of safe, comfortable, and attractive public spaces and encourage traffic calming strategies that will reduce vehicle speeds and reduce cut -through traffic on residential streets. Implementation of policies under PLAN Hermosa would be consistent with the goals of the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan (SBBMP). Mobility Element policies support and reinforce SBBMP policies by promoting bicycle facilities and parking throughout the city to provide a higher level of connectivity and access for bicycles. In close coordination with the SBBMP, Mobility Element Policy 3.6 would provide a complete bicycle network along designated roadways in the city and create connections to other sustainable modes of travel. To further promote bicycle circulation, Policy 3.8 encourages shared streets along low volume roadways with limited rights- of-way, and Policy 4.5 requires a sufficient supply of bicycle parking facilities that can support increasing bicycle ridership. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa would be consistent with the goals of the Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan. Existing transit facilities in Hermosa Beach are supported by local and regional transportation authorities, with local mobility and access to major regional transit facilities in nearby municipalities. Mobility Element policies promote transit opportunities within the city and opportunities to connect to regional infrastructure. Specifically, Mobility Element Policies 6.2 and 6.4 encourage coordination with regional transportation agencies and surrounding cities and require the consideration of regional travel patterns when prioritizing regional transit and transportation projects that will improve local access and connections to region -wide transit services. On the local level, Policy 5.2 proposes the development of a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport between key activity centers, including the Downtown core and the beach. To further support a robust transit system locally and regionally, Infrastructure Element Policy 2.5 requires new developments and redevelopment projects to provide the land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa policies directly support and are consistent with the Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan. PLAN Hermosa policies directly support the expansion of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities and support the City's goal of being a multimodal community. Mobility Element and Land Use + Design Element policies also support the goals and policies of the Los Angeles County Long Range Transportation Plan and the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan. Therefore, impacts to pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities would be less than significant. Mitigation Measures None required. CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES The traffic analysis included in this EIR addresses cumulative impacts to the regional transportation system. A regional traffic model was used to analyze impacts of PLAN Hermosa at buildout, along with projected regional growth. The regional traffic model already assumes a level of growth for other nearby jurisdictions based on all reasonably foreseeable and probable future projects in the region, including the Redondo Beach waterfront, as these sites are likely to be developed at some point in the future, and on population and employment projections. In City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-43 • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION sum, all scenarios studied in this section of the EIR are considered cumulative in nature because anticipated land use forecasts for other areas are already included in the traffic model. IMPACT 4.14-7 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Contribute to Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards? PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed. Nonetheless, three intersections and one segment would experience a cumulatively considerable impact. Regional population and employment growth will not result in increased vehicular travel demand. Policies and implementation actions in PLAN Hermosa would maintain levels of service at a majority studied intersections and two street segments in the buildout year, as discussed in Impact 4.14-1. PLAN Hermosa includes various policies aimed at developing an integrated multimodal transportation system with opportunities for travel by alternative modes, including walking, bicycling, and transit, and is supported by implementation actions such as MOBILITY -12 intended to reduce vehicle auto trips associated with new developments; MOBILITY -5 evaluating improvements to pedestrian amenities and safety; MOBILITY -4 that will improve transit access and services; and PARKS -9 and PARKS -22 that will improve bicycle facilities and services citywide. As discussed above in Impact 4.14-1, three studied intersections and one street segment under PLAN Hermosa would have a significant impact to level of service standards. Because mitigation measures are not viable at these intersections, given the state laws directing jurisdictions to move away from expanding roadway capacity based on LOS analysis, PLAN Hermosa implementation would have a cumulatively considerable impact at three intersections and one roadway segment. Mitigation Measures None feasible. IMPACT 4.14-8 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to a Cumulatively Considerable Conflict with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would maintain the level of service standard for the intersection at Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard and would comply with the CMP. This would result in a less than cumulatively considerable impact. As discussed under Impact 4.14-2, adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not conflict with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program. Therefore, implementation and adoption of PLAN Hermosa would have less than cumulatively considerable impacts on the CMP. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-9 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to a Cumulative Effect on Air Traffic Patterns? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated cumulative growth in the region would not modify the planning or operations of Los Angeles International Airport or introduce land use patterns that may PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-44 4.14 TRANSPORTATION cause substantial safety risks to or from air operations. This impact would be less than cumulatively considerable. As discussed under Impact 4.14-3, implementation of PLAN Hermosa would not influence air traffic patterns by creating either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks. Therefore, the impacts on air traffic patterns would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-10 Would PLAN Hermosa Contribute to Cumulative Roadway Design Hazards? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated regional growth would not increase hazards due to design or incompatible uses. This would result in a less than cumulatively considerable impact. As discussed under Impact 4.14-4, traffic generated by infill and redevelopment under PLAN Hermosa would not increase hazards due to design features or incompatible uses. Development policies from surrounding jurisdictions in combination with PLAN Hermosa policies would reduce design hazards and conflicts between incompatible land uses and between all transportation network users. Therefore, impacts would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-11 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Contribute to Inadequate Emergency Access? Adoption and implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies in addition to anticipated regional growth would not result in inadequate emergency access. The impact would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. As discussed in Impact 4.14-5, emergency vehicles take the fastest and most expedient routes to access an emergency. In some cases, emergency vehicles may travel through multiple jurisdictions to respond to a mutual aid call. PLAN Hermosa policies would ensure emergency response readiness and address emergency preparedness impacts, including maintaining emergency response plans and establishing designated emergency response and evacuation routes. Implementation of current state and federal regulations, combined with PLAN Hermosa policies and adjacent jurisdictions' emergency response plans, would reduce potential cumulative impacts on emergency preparedness and emergency access. The impact would be Tess than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. IMPACT 4.14-12 Would PLAN Hermosa Cumulatively Contribute to the Maintenance and Expansion of Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities? PLAN Hermosa supports the maintenance and expansion of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities consistent with adopted local and regional plans. Thus, implementation of PLAN Hermosa and additional development would result in a less than cumulatively considerable impact. Future growth into the buildout year (2040) would increase the demand for transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The majority of arterials and local streets, including specific key corridors throughout the city and in surrounding communities, include sidewalks to accommodate City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 4.14-45 • 4.14 TRANSPORTATION pedestrians. Many streets currently are impacted by issues regarding sidewalk quality and continuity, and many are not in compliance with ADA standards. PLAN Hermosa includes plans to improve sidewalk connectivity citywide and will bring sidewalks into ADA compliance. Bicycle paths (Class I), lanes (Class II), and routes (Class III) are in the general north -south direction along The Strand and Hermosa Avenue and are connected to surrounding communities. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa and other multimodal plans would ensure the maintenance and expansion of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Therefore, the impact on transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities would be less than cumulatively considerable. Mitigation Measures None required. 4.14.5 REFERENCES Beach Cities Transit. 2015. BCT website. Accessed December 11. http://www.redondo.org/depts/hbt/transit/beach_cities_transit/default.asp. California Department of Finance. 2015. Table E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, January 1, 2011-2015, with a 2010 Benchmark. Caltrans (California Department of Transportation). 2002. Guide for the Preparation of Traffic Impact Studies. CAPCOA (California Air Pollution Control Officers Association). 2010. Quantifying and Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions. http://www.capcoa.org/wp- content/uploads/2010/11 /CAPCOA-Quantification-Report-9-14-Final.pdf. City of Hermosa Beach. 1990. Hermosa Beach General Plan Circulation, Transportation, and Parking Element. . 2014. Comprehensive Annual Finance Report. Accessed December 11. http://www.hermosabch.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentlD=6718 . 2015. PLAN Hermosa Technical Background Report (Appendix C-17). Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. 2010. 2010 Congestion Management Plan for Los Angeles County. . 2015. Metro Line 130 Schedule. Accessed December 11. http://media.metro.net/riding_metro/bus_overview/images/130.pdf. Los Angeles Department of Transportation. 2015. LADOT's Commuter Express 438 Schedule. Accessed December 11. http://www.ladottransit.com/comexp/routes/438/ce438.pdf. SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2015. Profile of the City of Hermosa Beach. https://www.scag.ca.gov/Documents/HermosaBeach.pdf. 2012. Regional Transportation Plan 2012-2035 Sustainable Communities Strategy. http://rtpscs.scag.ca.gov/Documents/2012/pfinal/SR/2012pfRTP_GrowthForecast.pdf Transportation Research Board. 1980. Interim Materials on Highway Capacity (Circular 212). . 2010. Highway Capacity Manual. US Census Bureau. 2010. 2010 US Census Hermosa Beach. Accessed December 11. http://www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/PST045215/0633364 PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 4.14-46 5.0 OTHER CEQA-REQuIRED CONSIDERATIONS • • • • 5.0 OTHER CEQA-REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS This section discusses significant unavoidable impacts, growth -inducing impacts, and significant irreversible changes associated with the project. 5.0.1 INTRODUCTION California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15126 requires that all aspects of a project must be considered when evaluating its impact on the environment, including planning, acquisition, development, and operation. As part of this analysis, the EIR must also identify (1) significant environmental effects of the proposed project, (2) significant environmental effects that cannot be avoided if the proposed project is implemented, (3) significant irreversible environmental changes that would result from implementation of the proposed project, and (4) growth -inducing impacts of the proposed project. It should be noted that although growth inducement itself is not considered an environmental effect, it could potentially lead to foreseeable physical environmental effects, which are discussed under growth -inducing impacts below. 5.0.2 SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(b) requires that an EIR describe significant impacts that cannot be avoided, even with implementation of feasible mitigation measures. In addition, CEQA Guidelines Section 15093(a) allows the decision-making agency to determine whether the benefits of a project outweigh its unavoidable adverse environmental impacts. The City can approve a project with unavoidable adverse impacts if it prepares a Statement of Overriding Considerations setting forth the specific reasons for making such a judgment. The following project impacts, which have been recognized as significant and unavoidable in either the project or cumulative context, are specifically identified in Section 4.2, Air Quality; Section 4.4, Cultural Resources; and Section 4.14, Transportation, of this Draft EIR. All other thresholds of significance have been identified as having either no impact, a less than significant impact, or a less than significant impact with mitigation. Air Quality Impact 4.2-2 Short -Term Construction Emissions. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would generate air pollutant emissions from short- term construction. Impact 4.2-7 Cumulative Construction and Operational Emissions. PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated growth in the South Coast Air Basin would increase the amount of construction - related air pollutant emissions occurring within the basin, thereby affecting the region's ability to attain ambient air quality standards. Cultural Resources Impact 4.4-4 Substantial Change in the Significance of a Historical Resource. PLAN Hermosa would provide for future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Impact 4.4-8 Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources. PLAN Hermosa in addition to anticipated future development in the South Bay Cities COG planning area could cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical resource. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 5.0-1 • • • 5.0 OTHER CEQA-REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS PLAN Hermosa would result in incremental change to the city with an estimated 0.29 percent growth in both residential and nonresidential square footage. However, this incremental increase would be accomplished in a manner that would limit urban development in areas not already developed. Operations associated with future uses would also consume fossil fuels, water, natural gas, and electrical energy, and would create GHG emissions. These unavoidable consequences of urban growth are described throughout Chapter 4.0 of this EIR. These consequences do not constitute an adverse effect on the environment. Resources that would be permanently and continually consumed with implementation of PLAN Hermosa include water, electricity, natural gas, and fossil fuels; however, the amount and rate of consumption of these resources would not result in the inefficient or wasteful use of such resources. Future construction activities related to implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in the irretrievable commitment of nonrenewable energy resources, primarily in the form of fossil fuels (including fuel oil), natural gas, and gasoline for automobiles and construction equipment. However, compliance with all applicable building codes, as well as with PLAN Hermosa policies, standard conservation features, and current City programs, would ensure that natural resources are conserved to the maximum extent possible and would not be used in a wasteful manner. 5.0.4 GROWTH -INDUCING IMPACTS CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(d) requires that an EIR evaluate a project's growth -inducing impacts. A growth -inducing impact is defined by the CEQA Guidelines as: The way in which a proposed project could foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. Included in this are projects which would remove obstacles to population growth. A project can have direct and/or indirect growth inducement potential. For example, direct growth inducement potential would result if a project involved construction of new housing. A project would have indirect growth inducement potential if it established substantial new permanent employment opportunities or if it involved a construction effort with substantial short- term employment opportunities that would indirectly stimulate the need for additional housing and services to support the new employment demand (Napa Citizens for Honest Government v. Napa County Board of Supervisors). Similarly, a project would indirectly induce growth if it removed an obstacle to additional growth and development, such as removing a constraint on a required public service. A project providing an increased water supply in an area where water service historically limited growth could be considered growth -inducing. The CEQA Guidelines further explain that the environmental effects of induced growth are considered indirect impacts of a project. These indirect impacts or secondary effects of growth may result in significant, adverse environmental impacts. Potential secondary effects of growth include increased demand on other community and public services and infrastructure, increased traffic and noise, and adverse environmental impacts such as degradation of air and water quality, degradation or loss of plant and animal habitat, and conversion of agricultural and open space land to developed uses. Growth inducement may constitute an adverse impact if the growth is not consistent with, or accommodated by, the land use plans and growth management plans and policies for the area affected. Local land use plans establish land use development patterns and provide growth policies that allow the orderly expansion of urban development supported by adequate urban public services, such as water supply, roadway infrastructure, sewer service, and solid waste service. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 5.0-3 5.0 OTHER CEQA-REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS Transportation Impact 4.14-1 Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed, except at three intersections and on one roadway segment. Impact 4.14-7 Cumulative Contribution to Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards. PLAN Hermosa would guide future development and reuse projects in the city in a manner that would not increase overall demand for travel within Hermosa Beach. Both the City's and Caltrans's existing level of service standards for intersections and roadway segments would be maintained at the majority of intersections and segments analyzed, with the exception of three intersections and one roadway segment. 5.0.3 SIGNIFICANT IRREVERSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(c) requires a discussion of any significant irreversible environmental changes that would be caused by the proposed project. Section 15126.2(c) states: Uses of nonrenewable resources during the initial and continued phases of the project may be irreversible, since a large commitment of such resources makes removal or nonuse thereafter unlikely. Primary impact and, particularly, secondary impacts (such as highway improvement which provides access to a previously inaccessible area) generally commit future generations to similar uses. Also, irreversible damage can result from environmental accidents associated with the project. Irretrievable commitments of resources should e evaluated at assure that such current consumption is justified. Generally, a project would result in significant irreversible environmental changes if: • The primary and secondary impacts would generally commit future generations to similar uses; • The project would involve uses in which irreversible damage could result from any potential environmental accidents associated with the project; • The project would involve a large commitment of nonrenewable resources; or • The proposed consumption of resources is not justified (e.g., the project involved the wasteful use of energy). PLAN Hermosa would allow and continue urban development in the city. Returning Hermosa Beach to a less urban and developed condition would not be feasible given the degree of disturbance, the urbanization of the area, long-term historical urban use, and the level of capital investment. PLAN Hermosa would protect historic resources, open space, and other resources to limit the commitment of nonrenewable resources to urbanized areas. The CEQA Guidelines also require a discussion of the potential for irreversible environmental damage caused by an accident associated with the project. While implementation of PLAN Hermosa would result in the use, transport, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes, as described in Section 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, all activities would comply with applicable state and federal laws related to hazardous materials transport, use, and storage, which significantly reduces the likelihood and severity of accidents that could result in irreversible environmental damage. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 5.0-2 • 5.O OTHER CEQA-REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS DIRECT AND INDIRECT GROWTH IMPACTS PLAN Hermosa does not include any development proposals and as such, all potential induced growth would be indirect as a result of the plan's implementation. Potential indirect impacts from PLAN Hermosa implementation are discussed throughout this Draft EIR. For example, Section 4.2, Air Quality, discusses the air quality impacts if land uses allowed under PLAN Hermosa policies are implemented in the city. Further, Section 4.12, Population and Housing, describes the expected population growth from proposed policies' implementation. The purpose of a general plan is to guide growth and development in a community. Accordingly, PLAN Hermosa assumes that growth will take place. The focus of PLAN Hermosa is to provide a framework where growth can be managed in a sustainable way that would meet the needs of the community. PLAN Hermosa provides direction for new development and redevelopment projects by establishing the desired mix and relationship between land use types. Because Hermosa Beach is a built -out city that is surrounded by other built -out communities and the Pacific Ocean, continued growth in the city would not remove obstacles to growth beyond its borders. As outlined in PLAN Hermosa, growth would mainly take place through infill and intensification of uses. As such, allowing for continued growth in urbanized areas reduces development pressure in undeveloped peripheral areas regionally. Therefore, although the proposed plan would remove obstacles to growth in Hermosa Beach, it would not represent a significant adverse impact. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 5.0-4 6.0 ALTERNATIVES • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 6.0.1 INTRODUCTION Section 15126.6(a) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines requires environmental impact reports (EIRs t escribe "a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives." An EIR need not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather, it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision-making and public participation. An EIR is not required to consider alternatives which are infeasible. The lead agency is responsible for selecting a range of project alternatives for examination and must publiclydisclose its reasoning for selecting those alternatives. There is no ironclad rule governing the nature or scope of the alternatives to be discussed, other than the rule of reason. CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(b) describes the purpose of the alternatives analysis as follows: Because an EIR must identify ways to mitigate or avoid the significant effects that a project may have on the environment (Public Resources Code Section 21002.1), the discussion of alternatives shall focus on alternatives to the project or its location which are capable of avoiding or substantially lessening any significant effects of the project, even if these alternatives would impede to some degree the attainment of the project objectives, or would be more costly. The CEQA Guidelines suggest that alternatives should be compared to the proposed project's environmental impacts and that the "no project" alternative be considered (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[e]). In defining feasibility (e.g., "feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project"), CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(f) (1) states, in part: Among the factors that may be taken into account when addressing the feasibility of alternatives are site suitability, economic viability, availability of infrastructure, general plan consistency, other plans or regulatory limitations, jurisdictional boundaries (projects with a regionally significant impact should consider the regional context), and whether the proponent can reasonably acquire, control or otherwise have access to the alternative site (or the site is already owned by the proponent). No one of these factors establishes a fixed limit on the scope of reasonable alternatives. In determining what alternatives should be considered in the EIR, it is important to acknowledge the project's objectives, significant effects, and unique considerations. These factors are crucial to the development of alternatives that meet the criteria specified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(a). For the purposes of this EIR, the proposed project is the draft of PLAN Hermosa and is designed to achieve the following objectives: 1) Preserve the city's small beach town character through policies and design standards that maintain buildings at an appropriate scale and size with existing ones (including potentially historic buildings) and recognize the unique features of the city's eclectic residential neighborhoods. 2) Enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy through policies that stimulate sustainable businesses and jobs, enhance safe and beautiful commercial corridors, articulate clear and consistent standards for new businesses, and provide convenient services to residents, employees, and visitors. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-1 • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 3) Promote healthy and active lifestyles through land use and transportation improvements that enhance pedestrian, transit, and bike safety and access to a variety of destinations in the city. 4) Provide a safe and clean natural environment—including clean air and water—and stewardship of our ocean resources, open space, and other natural resources. 5) Achieve a low or no carbon future through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by reducing fuel consumption, diverting solid waste from landfills, conserving water, and improving the efficiency of energy use and utilizing renewable energy sources. 6.0.2 ALTERNATIVES EVALUATED Project alternatives are intended to reduce or eliminate the potentially significant adverse environmental effects of PLAN Hermosa while attempting to meet most of the project objectives. An EIR is required to contain a discussion of a reasonable range of alternatives to the project, or to the location of the project, that could feasibly attain the basic objectives of the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[a]). The comparative merits of the alternatives should also be presented. CEQA also provides the following guidelines for considering alternatives to the project: • If an alternative would cause one or more significant environmental effects in addition to those that would be caused by the project, the significant effects of the alternatives shall be discussed, but in less detail than the significant effects of the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[d]). • The "no project" alternative shall be evaluated. If the environmentally superior alternative is the no project alternative, the EIR shall also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[e]). • The range of alternatives required by an EIR is governed by the rule of reason that requires the EIR to set forth only those alternatives necessary to permit a reasoned choice. The key issue is whether the selection and discussion of alternatives fosters informed decision- making and informed public participation. An EIR need not consider an alternative whose effect cannot be ascertained and whose implementation is remote and speculative (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[f]). POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF PLAN HERMOSA • Since the project alternatives should be designed to reduce or eliminate potentially adverse effects of the proposed project, it is important to identify where the proposed project may have significant adverse environmental effects. The potentially significant adverse environmental effects of PLAN Hermosa, as analyzed and identified in this EIR, are noted in Table 6.0-1 (Potentially Significant Adverse Effects of PLAN Hermosa). TABLE 6.0-1 POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE EFFECTS OF PLAN HERMOSA Issue Area Proposed Project Without Mitigation With Mitigation 4.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources 4.1-1 Scenic Vistas and Viewsheds LTS LTS 4.1-2 Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway LTS LTS 4.1-3 Visual Character LTS LTS 4.1-4 Shade and Shadow LTS LTS 4.1-5 Light or Glare LTS LTS 4.1-6 Cumulative Visual Resources LTCC LTCC PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-2 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Issue Area Proposed Project Without Mitigation With Mitigation 4.2 Air Quality 4.2-1 Applicable Air Quality Plan LTS LTS 4.2-2 Violate Air Quality Standards - Short -Term Impacts PS SU 4.2-3 Violate Air Quality Standards - Long -Term Impacts LTS LTS 4.2-4 Increase in Criteria Pollutants - CO Hot Spots LTS LTS 4.2-5 Toxic Air Contaminants LTS LTS 4.2-6 Odors LTS LTS 4.2-7 Cumulative Air Quality Impacts CC CC/SU 4.3 Biological Resources 4.3-1 Special -Status Species PS LTS 4.3-2 Sensitive Biological Communities or Riparian Habitat NI NI 4.3-3 Wetlands LTS LTS 4.3-4 Movement or Migration of Wildlife Species LTS LTS 4.3-5 Conflict with Species Protection Policies or Ordinances LTS LTS 4.3-6 Cumulative Effects on Biological Resources LTCC LTCC 4.4 Cultural Resources 4.4-1 Archaeological Resources LTS LTS 4.4-2 Disturbance of Human Remains LTS LTS 4.4-3 Paleontological Resource, Site, or Geologic Feature PS LTS 4.4-4 Historical Resources PS SU 4.4-5 Cumulative Effects on Archaeological Resources LTCC LTCC 4.4-6 Cumulative Effects on Human Remains LTCC LTCC 4.4-7 Cumulative Effects on Paleontological Resources CC LTCC 4.4-8 Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources CC CC/SU 4.5 Geology and Soils 4.5-1 Fault Rupture and Seismic Hazards LTS LTS 4.5-2 Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil LTS LTS 4.5-3 Unstable and Expansive Soils LTS LTS 4.5-4 Cumulative Geologic and Soil Hazards LTCC LTCC 4.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions 4.6-1 Generate GHG Emissions PS LTS 4.6-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation LTS LTS 4.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 4.7-1 Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials LTS LTS 4.7-2 Accidental Release of Hazardous Materials PS LTS 4.7-3 Emission or Handling of Hazardous Materials Near Schools LTS LTS 4.7-4 Adopted Emergency Response Plan LTS LTS 4.7-5 Cumulative Effects of Hazardous Materials LTCC LTCC 4.8 Hydrology and Water Quality 4.8-1 Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements LTS LTS 4.8-2 Groundwater Supplies or Recharge LTS LTS 4.8-3 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - Off -Site Erosion or Siltation LTS LTS 4.8-4 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - On- or Off -Site Flooding LTS LTS 4.8-5 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - Water Runoff LTS LTS 4.8-6 Water Quality LTS LTS 4.8-7 Housing within Flood Hazard Area LTS LTS 14.8-8 Impede or Redirect Flood Flows LTS LTS 4.8-9 Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding LTS LTS City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-3 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Issue Area Proposed Project Without Mitigation With Mitigation 4.8-10 Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow LTS LTS 4.8-11 Cumulative Effects on Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements LTCC LTCC 4.8-12 Cumulative Effects on Groundwater Supply or Recharge LTCC LTCC 4.8-13 Cumulative Effects on Surface Hydrology and Flooding LTCC LTCC 4.8-14 Cumulative Effects on Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding LTCC LTCC 4.8-15 Cumulative Effects of Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow LTCC LTCC 4.9 Land Use and Planning 4.9-1 Physically Divide an Established Community LTS LTS 4.9-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Polity, or Regulation LTS LTS 4.9-3 Cumulative Impact on Dividing a Community or Conflicting with a Plan LTCC LTCC 4.10 Mineral Resources 4.10-1 Result in the Loss of Availability of Mineral Resources NI NI 4.11 Noise and Vibration 4.11-1 Noise Levels in Excess of Standards LTS LTS 4.11-2 Groundborne Vibration or Groundborne Noise Levels PS LTS 4.11-3 Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels LTS LTS 4.11-4 Temporary or Periodic Increase in Ambient Noise Levels LTS LTS 4.11-5 Cumulative Effects of Noise Sources LTCC LTCC 4.12 Population and Housing 4.12-1 Induce Substantial Population Growth LTS LTS 4.12-2 Displace People or Housing LTS LTS 4.12-3 Cumulative Inducement of Population Growth LTCC LTCC 4.12-4 Cumulative Impacts on Displacing People or Housing LTCC LTCC 4.13 Public Services, Community Facilities, and Utilities 4.13.2-1 Demand for Fire Protection Services LTS LTS 4.13.2-2 Cumulative Demand for Fire Protection Services LTCC LTCC 4.13.3-1 Demand for Law Enforcement Services LTS LTS 4.13.3-2 Cumulative Demand for Law Enforcement Services LTCC LTCC 4.13.4-1 Demand for Additional School Facilities LTS LTS 4.13.4-2 Cumulative Demand for Additional School Facilities LTCC LTCC 4.13.5-1 Demand for Additional Park Facilities LTS LTS 4.13.5-2 Cumulative Demand for Parks and Recreation Facilities LTCC LTCC 4.13.6-1 Demand for Additional Library Facilities LTS LTS 4.13.6-2 Cumulative Demand for Library Facilities LTCC LTCC 4.13.7-1 Wastewater Treatment Facilities Exceeding Influent Flows Beyond Permitted Capacity LTS LTS 4.13.7-2 Demand for New or Expanded Water or Wastewater Treatment Facilities LTS LTS 4.13.7-3 Demand for Stormwater Drainage Facilities LTS LTS 4.13.7-4 Demand for Water Supplies Beyond Projections LTS LTS 4.13.7-5 Exceed Capacity for Wastewater Treatment LTS LTS 4.13.7-6 Cumulative Water Supply Impacts LTCC LTCC 4.13.7-7 Cumulative Wastewater Impacts LTCC LTCC 4.13.8-1 Demand for Solid Waste Disposal LTS LTS 4.13.8-2 Compliance with Solid Waste Disposal Regulations LTS LTS 4.13.8-3 Cumulative Solid Waste Impacts LTCC LTCC 4.13.9-1 Demand for Additional Energy Resources LTS LTS 4.13.9-2 Cumulative Energy Consumption Impacts LTCC LTCC PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-4 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Issue Area Proposed Project Without Mitigation With Mitigation 4.14 Transportation 4.14-1 Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards 4.14 -la Intersections 10/13 LTS 10/13 LTS 1. Hermosa Ave & 13th St LTS LTS 2. Hermosa Ave & Pier Ave LTS LTS 3. Pacific Coast Hwy & Artesia Blvd PS SU 4. Pacific Coast Hwy & Aviation Blvd PS SU 5. Pacific Coast Hwy & Pier Ave LTS LTS 6. Pacific Coast Hwy & 2nd St LTS LTS 7. Pacific Coast Hwy & 16th St LTS LTS 8. Pacific Coast Hwy & 21st St LTS LTS 9. Prospect Ave & Artesia Blvd LTS LTS 10. Prospect Ave & Aviation Blvd LTS LTS 11. Prospect Ave & Anita St LTS LTS 12. Manhattan Ave & 27th St PS SU 13. Valley Drive & Gould Ave LTS LTS 4.14 -lb Roadway Segments 19/20 LTS 19/20 LTS 1. Hermosa Avenue (27th Street to 22nd Street) LTS LTS 2. Hermosa Avenue (22nd Street to 16th Street) LTS LTS 3. Hermosa Avenue (16th Street to 8th Street) LTS LTS 4. Hermosa Avenue (8th Street to Herondo Street) LTS LTS 5. Valley Drive (Gould Avenue to Pier Avenue) LTS LTS 6. Valley Drive (Pier Avenue to 8th Street) LTS LTS 7. Ardmore Avenue (16th Street to 11th Street) LTS LTS 8. Ardmore Avenue (8th Street to 2nd Street) LTS LTS 9. Pacific Coast Highway (Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard) LTS LTS 10. Pacific Coast Highway (Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street) LTS LTS 11. Prospect Avenue (Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard) LTS LTS 12. Prospect Avenue (Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street) PS SU 13. Artesia Blvd (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS 14. Aviation Blvd (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS 15. Pier Avenue (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS 16. Pier Avenue (Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway) LTS LTS 17. Gould Avenue (Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway) LTS LTS 18. 8th Street (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS 19. 8th Street (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS 20. Herondo Street (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS 4.14-2 Conflict with the LA County Congestion Management Program LTS LTS 4.14-3 Air Traffic Patterns LTS LTS 4.14-4 Roadway Design Hazards LTS LTS 4.14-5 Adequate Emergency Access LTS LTS 4.14-6 Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities LTS LTS 4.14-7 Cumulative Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards CC CC 4.14-8 Cumulative Impact on LA County Congestion Management Program LTCC LTCC 4.14-9 Cumulative Effect on Air Traffic Patterns LTCC LTCC 4.14-10 Cumulative Roadway Design Hazards LTCC LTCC 4.14-11 Cumulative Effect on Emergency Access LTCC LTCC 4.14-12 Cumulative Effect on Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities LTCC LTCC City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-5 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Definition LTS Less Than Significant— if impacts were identified as less than significant in the technical analysis PS Potentially Significant — if impacts were identified as potentially significant NI No Impact — if no impacts were identified in the technical analysis CC Cumulatively Considerable — if impacts, cumulative in nature, were determined to be significant LTCC Less Than Cumulatively Considerable — if impacts, cumulative in nature, were determined to be less than significant SU Significant and Unavoidable — if impacts, after feasible mitigation measures were identified, remained a significant impact and determined unavoidable in the technical analysis The City of Hermosa Beach considered a range of land use alternatives when formulating PLAN Hermosa. The previous public discussion of land use alternatives is distinct from the alternatives analysis presented in this EIR, although there may be overlap with certain concepts presented earlier. The purpose of the EIR alternatives is primarily to identify means to reduce or avoid significant environmental effects of the project. For this EIR, the following three alternatives to PLAN Hermosa are evaluated: • Alternative 1 - Retain Existing General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan (No Project Alternative) • Alternative 2 - Achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030 (2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative) • Alternative 3 - Stronger Retention of Visual and Cultural Resources (Character Retention Alternative) Each alternative—with the exception of the CEQA-required No Project Alternative—was formulated to provide rational and meaningful modifications to proposed land uses that would reduce environmental impacts while still achieving most project objectives. CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(a) allows the City to select alternatives that would result in reduction of any significant effects of the project, but does not require reduction of all impacts to a less than significant level. Project alternatives are not required to reduce specific individual impacts of PLAN Hermosa, as long as the City has established a reasonable range of feasible alternatives that address the significant effects of the project. Each alternative is described briefly below. Alternative 1- Retain Existing General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan (No Project Alternative) This alternative assumes that PLAN Hermosa would not be implemented and that future development would proceed as indicated in the existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan. Hermosa Beach would continue to grow and develop consistent with currently allowable land uses according to the existing 1980 Land Use Element (Figure 3-3). However, redevelopment patterns would be expected to be similar to PLAN Hermosa because the same infill properties would be vacant or available for redevelopment, resulting in increased intensity of development in an identical development footprint as PLAN Hermosa. Table 6.0-2 (Comparison of Allow/Estimated Density and Intensity) provides an estimate of what density or intensity of development is anticipated to be allowed under the adopted General Plan, compared to the proposed densities and intensities of PLAN Hermosa. Note that the existing General Plan does not include floor area ratios (FAR) but has setback and height requirements which can be used to calculate an estimate of FAR allowed based on recently approved or constructed projects. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-6 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT TABLE 6.0-2 COMPARISON OF ALLOWED/ESTIMATED DENSITY AND INTENSITY DU/AC = dwelling units per acre; FAR = floor area ratio. Information on du/acre and FAR from the public review draft of PLAN Hermosa (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). Italicized lines indicate new or altered land use designations introduced through PLAN Hermosa. This alternative is analyzed in this EIR, as it is required under CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e). According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) (2), the "no project" analysis shall discuss "what is reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services." As shown in Table 6.0-2, the No Project Alternative would allow similar levels of residential development as PLAN Hermosa. For nonresidential development, the No Project Alternative would allow greater levels of development in the Community Commercial, Recreational Commercial, and Service Commercial designations, and lesser levels of development in the Gateway Commercial and Light Industrial Creative designations than proposed under PLAN Hermosa. All other nonresidential or institutional categories propose similar levels of allowed development intensity for both PLAN Hermosa and the No Project Alternative. Additionally, as shown in Table 6.0-3 (No Project/Existing General Plan Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips Generated), Alternative 1 would result in 30,000 more VMT per day and 2,600 more daily vehicle trips compared to PLAN Hermosa. TABLE 6.0-3 NO PROJECT/EXISTING GENERAL PLAN VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED (VMT) AND VEHICLE TRIPS GENERATED Scenario No Project Alternative Proposed under PLAN Hermosa Allowed Density/Intensity Comparison of No Project to PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designation Maximum Minimum Maximum 34,600 Low Density (DU/AC) 13.0 2.0 13.0 Similar Medium Density (DU/AC) 25.0 13.1 25.0 Similar High Density (DU/AC) 33.0 25.1 33.0 Similar Mobile Home (DU/AC) 13.0 2.0 13.0 Similar Neighborhood Commercial (FAR) 1.0 0.5 1.0 Similar Community Commercial (FAR) 1.75 0.5 1.25 Greater Recreational Commercial (FAR) 2.5 1.0 1.75 Greater Gateway Commercial (FAR) 1.5 1.0 2.0 Lesser Service Commercial (FAR) 1.0 0.25 0.5 Greater Light Industrial Creative (FAR) 0.75 0.25 1.0 Lesser Public Facilities (FAR) n/a 0.1 1.0 Similar Open Space (FAR) n/a 0.0 0.1 Similar City Beach (FAR) n/a 0.0 0.05 Similar DU/AC = dwelling units per acre; FAR = floor area ratio. Information on du/acre and FAR from the public review draft of PLAN Hermosa (City of Hermosa Beach 2015). Italicized lines indicate new or altered land use designations introduced through PLAN Hermosa. This alternative is analyzed in this EIR, as it is required under CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e). According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e) (2), the "no project" analysis shall discuss "what is reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services." As shown in Table 6.0-2, the No Project Alternative would allow similar levels of residential development as PLAN Hermosa. For nonresidential development, the No Project Alternative would allow greater levels of development in the Community Commercial, Recreational Commercial, and Service Commercial designations, and lesser levels of development in the Gateway Commercial and Light Industrial Creative designations than proposed under PLAN Hermosa. All other nonresidential or institutional categories propose similar levels of allowed development intensity for both PLAN Hermosa and the No Project Alternative. Additionally, as shown in Table 6.0-3 (No Project/Existing General Plan Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and Vehicle Trips Generated), Alternative 1 would result in 30,000 more VMT per day and 2,600 more daily vehicle trips compared to PLAN Hermosa. TABLE 6.0-3 NO PROJECT/EXISTING GENERAL PLAN VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED (VMT) AND VEHICLE TRIPS GENERATED Scenario Daily Vehicle Miles Traveled Daily Vehicle Trips 2040 No Project Alternative 356,000 37,200 2040 PLAN Hermosa 326,000 34,600 Source: City of Hermosa Beach Traffic Study 2015 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-7 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Alternative 2 — Achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030 (2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative) This alternative would be focused on achieving a community -wide goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. Carbon neutrality is the state of achieving net zero carbon emissions, generally by balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset by the community. There are two primary differences between this alternative and the proposed draft of PLAN Hermosa, which currently includes a goal to achieve carbon neutrality no later than the year 2040: 1) Expediting achievement of a carbon neutral goal by 10 years from 2040 to 2030. 2) Bypassing the use of carbon credits to offset carbon emissions that could not be eliminated. Changing these two parameters would have a number of effects. While the total levels of local reductions needed to achieve a carbon neutral goal by 2030 or 2040 are virtually identical, the number of years to achieve the goal would be reduced from 24 years to 14. A 2030 goal would necessitate the implementation of new policies and programs each year to reduce emissions at a rate of 6,750 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2e) per year, compared to annual reductions of 3,975 MTCO2e per year for a 2040 goal. To do this, the following steps would be taken to modify PLAN Hermosa to increase and accelerate the rate of carbon emissions reductions from the energy, waste, and transportation sectors: • Require on-site renewable energy generation and zero net energy as part of all new construction and major building renovations. • Mandate retrofits to existing buildings to improve energy efficiency at time of sale, through rental inspections, and prior to issuance of building permits. • Eliminate the use of natural gas within the city through the installation of biogas technologies and electrification of heating and cooking appliances and fixtures within the building stock. • Participate in a Community Choice Aggregation program or other similar program, and procure or generate renewable energy to account for 100 percent of the energy portfolio by increasing the rate of installation for local renewable energy generation sources or procuring long-term renewable energy contracts for sources outside of the city. • Modify land use designations to facilitate mixed-use development and increase commercial and residential densities within the Community Commercial and Gateway Commercial designations to facilitate shorter trip lengths and increase the number of trips captured internally. • Mandate public and private clean fuel and electric vehicle infrastructure to facilitate deployment of electric vehicles, neighborhood electric vehicles, and/or clean fuel vehicles. • Modify parking standards and programs to disincentivize conventionally fueled automobile use, and incentivize alternative modes of transportation and zero -emission vehicle use through programs that include, but are not limited to, increases in the cost of public parking, elimination of parking minimums and establishment of maximums for new development, elimination of practices to assign parking spaces to particular uses, and changes to the preferential parking permit program. • Pursue regional transportation projects and infrastructure to facilitate carbon -free regional travel options. • Mandate transportation demand management (TDM) programs for institutions and businesses. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-8 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • Accelerate the implementation of pedestrian and bicycle network investments, electric vehicle and alternative fuel infrastructure, programs to achieve zero waste, and net zero energy requirements. The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative with the added or modified policies would result in greater levels of emissions reductions compared to the policies and programs proposed in PLAN Hermosa, as noted in Table 6.0-4 (Comparison of Emissions Reduction Scenarios 2030 vs. 2040). TABLE 6.0-4 COMPARISON OF EMISSIONS REDUCTION SCENARIOS 2030 vs. 2040 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-9 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • 2030 Scenario 2040 Scenario Share of Carbon Reductions (%) Annual Carbon Reduction (MTCO2e) Share of Carbon Reductions (%) Annual Carbon Reduction (MTCO2e) Baseline 2005 Emissions 137,160 137,160 2012 Emissions -7.7% 126,610 -7.7% 126,610 BAU Emissions (2040) +1.2% 128,290 +5.0% 133,430 State Programs (2040) -24.6% 33,750 -27.7% 38,010 Local Remaining Emissions to be Reduced 94,540 95,420 Building Efficiency New Construction Residential Efficiency -0.8% 1,090 -1.3% 1,810 Existing Buildings Residential Efficiency -4.4% 6,100 -4.4% 6,100 New Construction Nonresidential Efficiency -1.2% 1,690 -2.0% 2,810 Existing Buildings Nonresidential Efficiency -2.0% 2,770 -2.0% 2,770 Subtotal -8.5% 11,650 -9.8% 13,490 Renewable Energy Generation Rooftop Solar -5.8% 8,020 -5.9% 8,100 Community Solar -27.0% 36,990 -0.4% 550 Renewable Energy Procurement -7.5% 10,290 -7.3% 10,010 Purchased Renewables (Green Rate) -0.0% 0 -0.0% 0 Subtotal -40.3% 55,300 -13.6% 18,660 Transportation + Land Use Land Use & Transportation Alternatives -8.1% 11,130 -4.0% 5,500 Additional Transportation Strategies -3.2% 4,450 -1.9% 2,560 Electric Vehicles -5.7% 7,750 -7.4% 10,100 Subtotal -17.0% 23,330 -13.0% 18,160 Other Sectors + Offsets Waste + Recycling -2.5% 3,430 -2.5% 3,480 Water + Wastewater -0.6% 840 -0.2% 330 Purchase Offsets -0.0% 0 -30.1% 41,310 Subtotal -3.1% 4,270 -32.9% 45,120 TOTAL -100.0% 94,540 -100.0% 95,420 Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2016 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-9 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Alternative 3 — Stronger Retention of Visual and Cultural Resources (Character Retention Alternative) This alternative would focus on implementing additional policies or implementation actions that would facilitate greater retention of visual and cultural resources in Hermosa Beach. While PLAN Hermosa includes several goals and policies to address community character, historic buildings, and scenic views, they largely do so in a manner that encourages rather than mandates the protection of these resources. To facilitate greater retention of the existing visual and cultural resources in Hermosa Beach, the steps taken to modify PLAN Hermosa would include: • Reduction in density or establishment of floor area ratios (FAR) for medium- and high- density residential (reduce capacity to encourage retention of existing buildings that contribute to the character of residential neighborhoods). • Establishment of an overall cap or reduction in development intensity for the Community Commercial and Recreational Commercial land use designations to limit the scale and amount of additional development or increased redevelopment within those areas. • Addition of a mixed-use designation to allow limited residential development, in conjunction with commercial uses, accommodating the projected population growth reduced through changes to medium- and high-density designations. • Development of design standards (as opposed to guidelines) to address the compatibility of building scale, design aesthetics, and community character for residential and commercial neighborhoods. • Addition of historic resource protection policies, including City initiation of historic landmark designation of potentially eligible historic resources. • Achievement as a Certified Local Government (CLG) by the California Office of Historic Preservation, including establishment of an historic preservation commission. • Development of a historic preservation plan, historic context statement, and/or historic preservation element of the General Plan. • Establishment of view protection ordinances and development standards to physically depict building form/massing in the evaluation of a project's impact on views. • Revision of the issuance of a demolition permit from a ministerial action to a discretionary action for those properties that have been identified as a potentially eligible historic resource. The Character Retention Alternative, with the added or modified policies, would result in greater levels of certainty that cultural and visual resources would be retained, compared to the policies and programs proposed in PLAN Hermosa. However, the policies in this alternative may also discourage the redevelopment, reuse, or renovation of existing buildings and structures that will be necessary to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. 6.0.3 IMPACTS OF EACH ALTERNATIVE In the following discussion, the impacts of PLAN Hermosa for each environmental topic area considered in this EIR are described. This is followed by a description of how impacts for each alternative would differ from PLAN Hermosa, including whether impacts would be greater, lesser, or similar to the proposed project and why the alternative would result in different impacts to the proposed project. Table 6.0-5 (Comparison of Environmental Impacts of Alternatives to PLAN Hermosa) summarizes the impact comparison. AESTHETICS AND VISUAL RESOURCES Impacts of PLAN Hermosa related to adverse effects on scenic vistas, degradation of existing visual character, creation of shadows, and creation of new sources of light or glare that would PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-10 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT adversely affect nighttime views are less than significant. No designated scenic highways are located in the planning area, so there is no impact to scenic highways. PLAN Hermosa would result in new development that could alter views and the visual character, and add new sources of shadow, light, and glare in the planning area. However, policies and actions applicable to new development would reduce these impacts to a less than significant level. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would generally have similar effects on degradation of existing visual character, creation of shadows, and creation of new sources of light or glare as PLAN Hermosa. The existing General Plan has similar policies related to the preservation of aesthetic resources, especially the beaches, shoreline, and the Santa Monica Bay viewshed. However, the existing General Plan does not identify specific scenic vistas associated with the beaches, shoreline, and the Santa Monica Bay viewshed, nor does it identify the character defining features of the city's mix of neighborhoods, corridors, and districts. In the absence of these identified vistas and public viewing areas, and the absence of descriptors to identify the visual character, impacts to scenic vistas and visual character would be greater under this alternative than with PLAN Hermosa. This would potentially be a new significant impact and may cause greater cumulative impacts to visual resources. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would include similar policies to PLAN Hermosa to identify the locations and public viewing areas for scenic vistas and viewsheds. This alternative would also include similar descriptions of the community's character -defining features and similar policies addressing scenic resources within a state scenic highway. However, this alternative could increase the amount of renewable energy installations in Hermosa Beach by an order of magnitude (34 megawatts [MW] in PLAN Hermosa compared to 166 MW in this alternative) compared to the projections used in the draft of PLAN Hermosa, potentially in the form of solar, wind, or ocean -based renewable energy development. These renewable energy resources have the potential to create new sources of light or glare or be placed in areas adjacent to high quality scenic viewing areas or within the Santa Monica Bay viewshed. Thus, impacts to aesthetics could be greater than those of PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would incorporate additional development standards to address compatibility of building scale, design aesthetics, and community character as well as the consideration of scenic views. While this alternative would incorporate descriptions of the community's character -defining features, similar to PLAN Hermosa, it would take additional steps to further protect scenic vistas and visual character by incorporating development standards and a design review process. These design standards would guide and evaluate new construction or redevelopment projects to design buildings and structures in a manner that minimizes impacts to visual resources and provide guidance to ensure new buildings are consistent with the form, scale, and orientation of existing buildings. This alternative would also identify specific vistas and key public viewpoints of the identified vistas. The Character Retention Alternative would also potentially have lesser impacts on shade and shadow, by establishing intensities or floor area ratios for residential development, thereby facilitating greater variation of building forms to avoid creating shadow impacts. Thus, this alternative would have lesser impacts than PLAN Hermosa. AIR QUALITY Air pollutants are generated from the combustion of fuels for automobiles and small engines powering equipment for activities such as landscaping and construction. Impacts of PLAN Hermosa related to consistency with air quality plans, long-term operational emissions, carbon monoxide (CO) hot spots, toxic air contaminants, and odors are less than significant. PLAN City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-11 • • • 6.O ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Hermosa would result in potentially significant impacts related to short-term construction emissions. These impacts would remain significant and unavoidable even after implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative results in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; however, this alternative would result in an increase of approximately 30,000 daily vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and 2,600 daily vehicle trips (VT). Fuel consumption from vehicle trips is a primary determinant in the emittance of several air quality pollutants, and contributes to CO hot spots and toxic air contaminants. Therefore, this alternative would result in relatively greater impacts related to violating long-term air quality standards, CO hot spots, and toxic air contaminants compared to PLAN Hermosa. Similarly, due to the greater VMT and VT, this alternative would be potentially inconsistent with the South Coast Air Quality Management District's (SMAQMD) Air Quality Management Plan and would have greater cumulative impacts on air quality. Since this alternative would result in similar levels of construction compared to the proposed project, it would have similar air quality impacts related to short-term emissions and would have similar impacts on odors. Alternative 2 Under the 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative, the quantity of internal combustion engines in the city would be reduced at a greater rate and would be replaced with electric equipment and vehicles at a greater rate. Thus, because the decrease would occur more quickly and there would be a greater rate of conversion, there would be fewer transportation -related pollutants generated locally, resulting in lesser impacts related to consistency with the Air Quality Management Plan, long-term operational emissions, CO hot spots, and toxic air contaminants. Since this alternative would result in greater levels of construction compared to PLAN Hermosa, it would have higher air quality impacts related to short-term construction -related emissions and would have similar impacts on odors. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative proposes to reduce density or establish floor area ratios (FAR) for medium- and high-density residential to encourage the retention of existing buildings that contribute to the character of residential neighborhoods. This would in effect discourage redevelopment of existing parcels, which would reduce the amount of emissions generated by construction equipment, resulting in fewer impacts from or a lower likelihood of violating air quality standards on a short-term basis. This alternative would otherwise have similar mobility and transportation policies, resulting in similar impacts to PLAN Hermosa related to consistency with the Air Quality Management Plan, long-term operational emission, CO hot spots, toxic air contaminants, and odors. This would result in similar cumulative air quality impacts compared to PLAN Hermosa. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES PLAN Hermosa was evaluated to determine whether its adoption and implementation would cause adverse effects to special -status species, sensitive natural communities, and wildlife movement. The majority of the planning area is urbanized, and limited areas of habitat are focused along the beach and shoreline, where no change in the developed footprint is planned. The Draft EIR has found that, after mitigation, no significant biological impacts would occur. Alternative 1 Although the existing General Plan lacks some of the specific policies and programs requiring consideration of biological resources in development decisions, the current General Plan does not envision development or changes to existing open space areas along the beach and PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-12 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT shoreline that would potentially affect biological resources. By retaining existing open spaces along the beach and shoreline, Alternative 1 would have impacts to sensitive biological communities, wetlands, movement or migration of wildlife, and conflicts with species protection policies, similar to those identified for PLAN Hermosa. However, impacts to special -status species have been identified as a potentially significant impact under PLAN Hermosa, but lowered to a less than significant impact with a mitigation measure to require any construction on the beach proposed to occur during the summer months to conduct preconstruction surveys for western snowy plovers or California least terns, and not allowing any construction on the beach to occur if the surveys identify these species as roosting. Since this alternative proposes a continuation of existing adopted policy, there is no discretionary action and associated environmental review required to implement mitigation of this impact. Thus, the impacts on special -status species would be potentially greater under the No Project Alternative. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would follow the same general footprint of development and policies as PLAN Hermosa. However, this alternative may introduce additional renewable energy resources—including solar, wind, or ocean -based renewable energy sources—each of which may have varying adverse effects on special -status species, sensitive natural communities, and wildlife migration. While the potential impacts to California least terns and western snowy plovers could be mitigated with similar measures identified for PLAN Hermosa, the potential introduction of ocean -based renewable energy sources may cause impacts to other special -status species, particularly marine mammals such as cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), and sea otters, which are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Additionally, both ocean- and land-based renewable energy resources have been known to alter or impact the movement and migration of wildlife species. Since the location, size, technology, and design of any new renewable energy resources cannot be identified at this time, further study of the potential impacts and additional mitigation measures or implementation actions may be needed to protect sensitive biological habitats and wildlife movement or migration and to reach a less than significant impact related to biological resources for this alternative. Thus, impacts to special -status species, movement and migration of wildlife species, and cumulative effects on biological resources may be greater than those of PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would include similar policies related to biological resources and generally follows the same development footprint or urbanized area as PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, this alternative does not envision development or changes to existing open space areas along the beach and shoreline that could potentially affect biological resources. While a potentially significant impact to special -status species has been identified for PLAN Hermosa, this alternative could similarly incorporate a mitigation measure to require any construction on the beach proposed to occur during the summer months to conduct preconstruction surveys for western snowy plovers or California least terns, and not allow any construction on the beach to occur if the surveys identify these species as roosting. Therefore, biological resources impacts with this alternative would be similar to PLAN Hermosa. CULTURAL RESOURCES Impacts of PLAN Hermosa related to archaeological, paleontological, cultural, and historic resources are considered potentially significant. With the application of mitigation measures, the impacts to archaeological and paleontological resources would be reduced to less than significant. PLAN Hermosa, with application of mitigation measures, would still be considered a significant and unavoidable impact causing substantial change to the significance of a historical resource. With redevelopment and reuse of existing properties, as opposed to development of City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-13 • • • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT vacant land, as the primary means to reinvestment in Hermosa Beach in the future, the risk of potentially historic buildings or structures being demolished or substantially modified is high. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would retain the policies and programs of the existing General Plan. Such policies related to cultural and historic resources are included in the Urban Design Element, but do not preclude property owners from demolishing or significantly altering older buildings and identified potentially historic resources. Since PLAN Hermosa includes an inventory of potentially historic resources, additional policies, and a set of implementation actions, this alternative would result in potentially greater impacts to historic resources than the plan. Additionally, impacts to archaeological and paleontological resources are less than significant because of the inclusion of specific implementation actions to require archaeological investigations for future projects involving ground -disturbing activities in areas that have not been previously surveyed and/or determined sensitive for cultural resources. Since this alternative proposes a continuation of existing adopted policy, there is no discretionary action or associated environmental review required to implement mitigation measures to reduce impacts. Thus, the impacts on archaeological and paleontological resources would be potentially greater under this alternative. On a cumulative basis, this alternative would likely cause greater impacts to cultural resources than PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 2 Potential impacts to archaeological or paleontological resources and disturbance of human remains would be similar to PLAN Hermosa under this alternative because Alternative 2 would have similar implementation actions to address future ground -disturbing activities. However, this alternative would likely result in greater alterations or demolitions to the existing building stock to increase the installation of solar panels on the majority of rooftops in Hermosa Beach, achieve deep energy renovations of existing buildings, and result in a greater number of buildings being torn down and rebuilt as zero net energy and high-performance buildings. While the installation of energy-efficient equipment or renewable energy technology would not necessarily damage or alter designated or potentially historic resources, additional guidance and technical information would be needed to describe how historic properties can incorporate sustainable practices to reduce energy consumption, while maintaining those characteristics that make historic properties significant. Unless additional policies are identified to prohibit the demolition or significant alteration of potentially historic resources, impacts to historical resources would still be expected to be significant and unavoidable and would likely be somewhat greater under this alternative given the level of alterations to building stock needed to achieve higher energy performance. Potential impacts to historical resources on a cumulative basis, which is identified as a significant and unavoidable impact with PLAN Hermosa, would also be somewhat greater under this alternative. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would incorporate similar implementation actions as PLAN Hermosa to address archaeological and paleontological resources, and therefore would have similar impacts on those resources. However, this alternative would incorporate additional policies and programs to directly or indirectly address cultural and specifically historic resources. Additional policies or implementation actions under this alternative would include: • Addition of historic resource protection policies, including City initiation of historic landmark designation of potentially eligible historic resources. • Achievement as a Certified Local Government (CLG) by the California Office of Historic Preservation, including establishment of an historic preservation commission. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-14 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • Development of a historic preservation plan, historic context statement, and/or historic preservation element of the General Plan. • Reduction in density or establishment of floor area ratios (FAR) for medium- and high- density residential (reduce capacity to encourage retention of existing buildings that contribute to the character of residential neighborhoods). • Revision of the issuance of a demolition permit from a ministerial action to a discretionary action for those properties that have been identified as a potentially eligible historic resource. These specific additions proposed for this alternative are intended to provide additional oversight and information or regulation to preserve both designated historic resources and potentially eligible resources. Thus, the impacts and cumulative effects on historic resources, under this alternative, would be lesser than with PLAN Hermosa, although the impact may not necessarily be reduced to a less than significant level. GEOLOGY AND SOILS Implementation of PLAN Hermosa, including future land uses consistent with the Land Use Map, would provide for construction of new uses in areas potentially subject to seismic ground shaking, soil liquefaction and ground failure, and earthquake -induced landslides. New land uses would also potentially be exposed to erosion hazards and to expansive and collapsible soils. However, PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions require enforcement of regulations, programs, and building code requirements. All geology and soils impacts of PLAN Hermosa would be less than significant. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa and would follow the same general footprint of development; therefore, the number of people and structures subject to potential geological hazards would be similar. The same regulations and building code requirements would apply to new development under this alternative. Thus, impacts related to geology and soils, including fault rupture, soil erosion, and unstable expansive soils, would be similar to those with PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa and would follow the same general footprint of development; therefore, the number of people and structures subject to potential geological hazards would be similar. The same regulations and building code requirements would apply to new development under this alternative. Thus, impacts related to geology and soils, including fault rupture, soil erosion, and unstable expansive soils, would be similar to those with PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa and would follow the same general footprint of development; therefore, the number of people and structures subject to potential geological hazards would be similar. The same regulations and building code requirements would apply to new development under this alternative. Thus, impacts related to geology and soils, including fault rupture, soil erosion, and unstable expansive soils, would be similar to those with PLAN Hermosa. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS PLAN Hermosa includes numerous policies and implementation actions to address and dramatically reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. While the generation of GHG emissions is identified as a potentially significant impact with the proposed project, the mitigation measures City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-15 • • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT establish interim GHG reduction goals and requirements to evaluate progress a minimum of every five years, and to adjust policies or programs if Hermosa Beach is not on track to achieve long- term targets. The policies and actions identified in PLAN Hermosa are designed to comply with local GHG reduction planning efforts and policies, including the 2011 Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan and the Municipal Carbon Neutral Goal for 2020, and are consistent with the State's long-term GHG reduction targets articulated under Assembly Bill (AB) 32, Senate Bill (SB) 32, and the AB 32 Scoping Plan. With these mitigation measures, PLAN Hermosa would result in less than significant impacts related to GHG emissions and would not conflict with any applicable plans, policies, or regulations. Alternative 1 Impacts related to the generation of GHG emissions have been identified as potentially significant under PLAN Hermosa, but are lowered to a less than significant impact with mitigation measures to establish interim GHG reduction goals and requirements to evaluate progress a minimum of every five years, and to adjust policies or programs if Hermosa Beach is not on track to achieve long-term targets. Since this alternative proposes a continuation of existing adopted policy, there is no discretionary action and associated environmental review required and therefore no mitigation measures. This alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; however, because of the location and distribution of uses allowed, this alternative would result in an increase of approximately 30,000 VMT per day and 2,600 additional daily vehicle trips. Additionally, Alternative 1 would not include the policies and implementation actions identified in PLAN Hermosa that would reduce operational emissions from other sources such as energy use, waste disposal, and water consumption. Therefore, this alternative would result in greater impacts related to GHG emissions compared to PLAN Hermosa. Similarly, this alternative would not include policies and actions that reduce GHG emissions to the levels identified by the City's 2011 Sustainability Plan and the Municipal Carbon Neutral Goal for 2020. Therefore, impacts related to consistency with applicable GHG reduction plans would be greater. Alternative 2 Under the 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative, a greater quantity of emissions would be reduced by 2030. The key policies incorporated into this alternative include: • Require on-site renewable energy generation and zero net energy as part of all new construction and major building renovations. • Mandate retrofits to existing buildings to improve energy efficiency at time of sale, through rental inspections, and prior to issuance of building permits. • Eliminate the use of natural gas within the city through the installation of biogas technologies and electrification of heating and cooking appliances and fixtures within the building stock. • Participate in a Community Choice Aggregation program or other similar program and procure or generate renewable energy to account for 100 percent of the energy portfolio by increasing the rate of installation for local renewable energy generation sources or procuring long-term renewable energy contracts for sources outside of the city. • Modify land use designations to facilitate mixed-use development and increase commercial and residential densities within the Community Commercial and Gateway Commercial designations to facilitate shorter trips lengths and increase the number of trips captured internally. • Mandate public and private clean fuel and electric vehicle infrastructure to facilitate deployment of electric vehicles, neighborhood electric vehicles, and/or clean fuel vehicles. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-16 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • Modify parking standards and programs to disincentivize conventionally fueled automobile use, and incentivize alternative modes of transportation and zero -emission vehicle use through programs that include, but are not limited to, increases in the cost of public -parking, elimination of parking minimums and establishment of maximums for new development, elimination of practices to assign parking spaces to particular uses, and changes to the preferential parking permit program. • Pursue regional transportation projects and infrastructure to facilitate carbon -free regional travel options. • Mandate transportation demand management (TDM) programs for institutions and businesses. • Accelerate the implementation of pedestrian and bicycle network investments, electric vehicle and alternative fuel infrastructure, programs to achieve zero waste, and net zero energy requirements. However, the certainty in which emissions could be reduced when relying, even if to a lesser extent than PLAN Hermosa, on voluntary and incentive -based measures remains. Therefore, similar mitigation measures to ensure emissions reductions were achieved by the identified target years would be required. More aggressive implementation of programs and policies to achieve a goal of community -wide carbon neutrality by 2030 rather than 2040 would set the City of Hermosa Beach up to exceed state greenhouse gas reduction targets earlier, and therefore would have lesser impacts related to GHG emissions than PLAN Hermosa. This alternative would similarly include policies and actions that reduce GHG emissions to levels that meet or exceed local plans such as the 2011 Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan and the Municipal Carbon Neutral Goal for 2020 and would therefore have a similar impact on applicable plans, policies, or regulations compared to PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative proposes to reduce density or establish floor area ratios (FAR) for medium- and high-density residential to encourage the retention of existing buildings that contribute to the character of residential neighborhoods. This would in effect discourage redevelopment of existing parcels, which would result in lower construction -related emissions, but would also discourage the development of higher -performance buildings or the installation of renewable energy systems, a key strategy to reducing GHG emissions. The mobility policies and implementation actions in this alternative would mirror those proposed in PLAN Hermosa, resulting in similar levels of transportation -related reductions in GHG emissions. Waste reduction, water conservation, and some energy efficiency measures, similar to PLAN Hermosa, would still be implemented under Alternative 3. Given that energy-related emissions account for 41 percent of the emissions profile for Hermosa Beach and that this alternative may decrease the GHG reduction potential from energy sources, the GHG impacts under this alternative would be greater than with PLAN Hermosa. However, the implementation of policies and actions related transportation, waste, and water/wastewater and the incorporation of similar mitigation measures to PLAN Hermosa means that Alternative 3 may not necessarily result in a significant impact. Similarly, this alternative would have similar impacts, compared to PLAN Hermosa, related to consistency with applicable GHG reduction plans, policies, and regulations. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Implementation of PLAN Hermosa could result in increased routine use, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials, including the potential for hazardous materials handling near schools and development on sites included on the Cortese List. However, compliance with existing hazardous materials regulations and PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would result in less City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-17 • • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT than significant impacts related to the transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials, emission or handling of hazardous materials near schools, and consistency with adopted emergency response plans. As it relates to the accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment, PLAN Hermosa has been identified to have a potentially significant impact due to the known contamination at the City of Hermosa Beach Maintenance Yard and the potential for unknown contamination at other sites throughout the city. To mitigate the potential impacts, this EIR includes mitigation measures to require the development and implementation of a Human Health Risk Assessment and Remedial Action Plan for any development activities at the City Maintenance Yard, and requirements for future projects involving hazardous materials to stop work, identify the scope, coordinate with the appropriate agencies, and conduct the necessary remediation. With these measures, the impacts related to the accidental release of hazardous materials is mitigated to a less than significant level. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative results in similar amounts and the same general footprint of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; therefore, the volume of materials used and transported, and the number of people subject to potential hazards through routine use and transport of materials, would be similar. The use and transportation of hazardous materials would be subject to the same federal, state, and local regulations as identified for PLAN Hermosa. Impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials would be similar. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would result in similar amounts and the same general footprint of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; therefore, the volume of material used and transported, and the number of people subject to potential hazards through routine use and transport of materials, would be similar. The use and transportation of hazardous materials would be subject to the same federal, state, and local regulations as identified for PLAN Hermosa. Impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials would be similar with this alternative. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would result in slightly less but the same general footprint of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; therefore, the volume of material used and transported, and the number of people subject to potential hazards through routine use and transport of materials, would be similar. The use and transportation of hazardous materials would be subject to the same federal, state, and local regulations as identified for PLAN Hermosa. Impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials would be similar. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Development under PLAN Hermosa would result in infill development and a slight increase in impervious surfaces in a largely built -out environment. Development would not result in increased erosion. Development under PLAN Hermosa would not significantly affect water quality or flooding potential and hazards. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions and compliance with existing regulations would result in less than significant impacts to water quality, groundwater recharge, and stormwater drainage patterns related to erosion. Similarly, PLAN Hermosa identifies policies, programs, and implementation actions that would reduce impacts related to flooding from anticipated sea level rise to less than significant. Alternative 1 Compliance with the existing General Plan and enforcement of existing regulations would result in similar water quality and flood hazard impacts, including impacts related to seiche or mudflow. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-18 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT The No Project Alternative includes a similar development footprint, resulting in similar impacts related to stormwater flows (including erosion and flooding) and groundwater recharge. While the existing General Plan does not include policies to address the current standards or regulations related to water quality, groundwater recharge, surface hydrology, and flood hazard areas, the City's existing code requirements related to stormwater compliance and use of low impact development standards to reduce stormwater runoff would ensure that impacts related to these topics are less than significant. This alternative would not include the policies, programs, and actions related to resiliency and the mitigation of potential sea level rise. Current sea level rise projections identify that the 100 -year flood zone could be expanded up to 300 percent—from approximately 22 acres currently to 64 acres in Hermosa Beach—by the end of the twenty-first century with 55 inches of sea level rise. In Hermosa Beach, there are currently no structures or roadways located within the 100 -year flood zone, but with 55 inches of sea level rise, approximately 200 existing buildings and nearly 1,000 residents could be located in an expanded flood zone and thereby exposed to loss, injury, or death involving flooding. Therefore, Alternative 1 would have greater impacts related to hydrology and water quality, specifically as it relates to impacts involving flood hazard areas. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative includes a similar development footprint, resulting in similar impacts related to stormwater flows (including erosion and flooding) and groundwater recharge. This alternative would also include the policies, programs, and actions related to resiliency and the mitigation of potential sea level rise. Therefore, Alternative 2 would have similar impacts related to hydrology and water quality. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative includes a similar development footprint, resulting in similar impacts related to stormwater flows (including erosion and flooding) and groundwater recharge. This alternative would also include the policies, programs, and actions related to resiliency and the mitigation of potential sea level rise. Therefore, Alternative 3 would have similar impacts related to hydrology and water quality. LAND USE AND PLANNING The environmental analysis for PLAN Hermosa examined potential impacts related to consistency with applicable local and regional land use regulations including the Hermosa Beach Zoning Ordinance, California Coastal Act, Southern California Association of Governments' (SCAG) Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), South Coast Air Quality Management Plan, and Beach Cities Livability Plan. The review included a detailed assessment of consistency with the California Coastal Act and SCAG's RTP/SCS and found that PLAN Hermosa is consistent with the goals and policies of these applicable regulations and plans and therefore would have a less than significant impact. The proposed land use changes identified in PLAN Hermosa follow established land use patterns and would not divide an existing community, resulting in a less than significant impact requiring no mitigation measures. Implementation of PLAN Hermosa policies and implementation actions would result in less than significant impacts related to the division of existing communities and consistency with applicable land use plans. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would not divide existing communities because it would continue to allow development in conformance with the established land use patterns in the community. The existing General Plan, which would be continued under this alternative, is generally consistent with SCAG's 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy and with air City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-19 • • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT quality plans. Although the existing General Plan's policies and programs meet many of the goals of the RTP/SCS, it does not have the same emphasis on sustainability and a reduction in vehicle miles traveled as PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, the existing Coastal Land Use Plan, which would be continued under this alternative, does not address certain topics of the California Coastal Act— including public access, low-cost visitor and recreational facilities, and flood hazards—at a level that meets today's standards or expectations. As a result, this alternative would have a greater impact related to consistency with other plans. Alternative 2 Under the 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative, the proposed land use mix would be adjusted, allowing mixed-use and professional office uses, and would allow additional neighborhood - serving uses in some neighborhoods. This would be done with the express intent to reduce vehicle miles traveled, improve the jobs -housing balance, and allow a greater percentage of residents to reach daily goods and services on bike or foot or by electric vehicle. Under this alternative, the City's land use plan would be aligned with the intent of the RTP/SCS. Alternative 2 would also incorporate policies and implementation actions, similar to PLAN Hermosa, to address the California Coastal Act. Therefore, the impacts would be similar to PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 With the Character Retention Alternative, some land use designations would be adjusted to discourage redevelopment of medium- and high-density residential uses and instead allow some residential development to occur within a mixed-use designation. This alternative would have a similar amount of overall allowable development and would identify sufficient land area in which redevelopment may occur to be consistent with SCAG's 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy and with air quality plans. This alternative would retain a similar emphasis on sustainability policies and policies to reduce vehicle miles traveled as PLAN Hermosa. The alternative would also incorporate policies and implementation actions similar to PLAN Hermosa to address the California Coastal Act. Therefore, Alternative 3 would have a similar impact related to consistency with other plans. MINERAL RESOURCES The entirety of Hermosa Beach is classified as Mineral Resource Zone 3 (MRZ-3) under the California Mineral Land Classification System. In MRZ-3 areas, mineral resources are present, but the significance of the resource is considered speculative because no mining has historically occurred in the area. Additionally, the City of Hermosa Beach currently prohibits drilling for oil within the city. A vote of the people would be required to lift the existing ban. A ballot measure in 2015, Measure 0, proposed to lift the existing ban, but failed at a rate of four to one. Therefore, PLAN Hermosa would have no impact on mineral resources, and each alternative would similarly have no impact because these resources can no longer be feasibly extracted. NOISE AND VIBRATION The environmental analysis for PLAN Hermosa examined potential noise and vibration impacts associated with future transportation levels and land use activities. Evaluated noise and vibration sources include transportation sources, bars and restaurants, events and parties, commercial and industrial activities, construction and demolition activity, and refuse collection. These noise and vibration sources were found to have a less than significant impact on noise standards, periodic and permanent increases in ambient noise levels, and cumulative effects of noise sources. However, the Draft EIR has found that groundborne vibration and noise levels with the implementation of PLAN Hermosa could have a potentially significant impact. To mitigate this impact, new development that may cause exceedance of groundborne vibration and noise standards would be required to have a report prepared by a structural engineer identifying the PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-20 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT vibration limits and specifying measures and a monitoring plan to mitigate the site-specific impacts. With the incorporation of this mitigation measure, all noise -related impacts from PLAN Hermosa would be considered less than significant. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa, resulting in similar impacts to temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels. This alternative would, however, result in an increase of approximately 30,000 VMT and 2,600 VT, and would subsequently generate additional sources of transportation -related noise that could exceed noise standards or create a permanent increase in ambient noise levels causing impacts that are greater than PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, impacts related to groundborne noise and vibration levels have been identified as a potentially significant impact under PLAN Hermosa, but lowered to a less than significant impact with a mitigation measure to require the preparation of a report by a structural engineer identifying the vibration limits and specifying measures and a monitoring plan to mitigate the site- specific impacts for new development projects. Since this alternative proposes a continuation of existing adopted policy, there is no discretionary action or associated environmental review required and therefore no mitigation measures. Thus, the impacts to groundborne noise and vibration standards would be potentially greater under Alternative 1. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa, resulting in similar impacts to temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels and groundborne noise or vibration sources. This alternative would similarly incorporate a mitigation measure applied to new development projects to reduce impacts related to groundborne noise and vibration sources. This alternative would also lower VMT by an additional 12 percent, compared to PLAN Hermosa (25 percent in Alternative 2 compared to 13 percent in PLAN Hermosa). With automobile use a primary contributor to ambient noise levels, a reduction in vehicle trips would also result in a reduction in automobile -related noise to a lesser impact than with PLAN Hermosa. Thus, this alternative would overall have lesser impacts on noise levels than PLAN Hermosa due to the reduction in transportation noise. Alternative 3 With the Character Retention Alternative, the goals, policies, and implementation actions related to transportation, events, and commercial activity would largely mirror PLAN Hermosa. These sources of noise would have a similar effect to the proposed project; however, there would potentially be fewer sources of construction/demolition noise and vibration and temporary increases in ambient noise levels due to reduced construction activity compared to PLAN Hermosa. Overall, this alternative would have lesser impacts to noise and vibration, depending on the source of noise. POPULATION AND HOUSING The environmental analysis examined the potential of PLAN Hermosa to induce population growth or to displace people or housing. PLAN Hermosa provides accommodation for a limited increase in population (660 residents), housing (300 units), and employment (2,400 jobs) in Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years. PLAN Hermosa includes policies to manage this anticipated growth and focus it in certain infill areas while maintaining existing density in established residential neighborhoods. Therefore, the Draft EIR has found that PLAN Hermosa would have a less than significant impact related to the displacement of people or housing, nor would the plan induce population growth directly or indirectly. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-21 • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would follow the same general footprint of development and housing - related policies and allow similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa, generating a modest level of growth in population, housing, and employment over the next 25 years. This alternative would have a similar impact on population and housing as PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would follow the same general footprint of development and housing -related policies; thus, impacts would be largely the same as those of PLAN Hermosa. Generally, the same amount of residential growth would be expected with this alternative. Nonresidential growth would be similar in magnitude, but different in type, with less regional - serving commercial development and more professional office development. Thus, the impacts of Alternative 2 related to population growth and displacement would be similar to PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would reduce the development capacity in medium- and high-density residential land uses, and correspondingly introduce a new designation to allow limited residential development as part of a mixed-use development. These two actions under Alternative 3 would have the same amount of residential development capacity of approximately 300 units, which would accommodate roughly the same population as the proposed project. Nonresidential development capacity and policies to create additional employment opportunities would mirror those of PLAN Hermosa. Thus, the impacts of this alternative related to population growth and displacement would be similar to PLAN Hermosa. • PUBLIC SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, AND UTILITIES The environmental analysis examined the potential impacts of PLAN Hermosa on fire protection and emergency medical services, law enforcement services, public schools, parks and recreation, library facilities, water supply and service, wastewater services, solid waste services, and energy. PLAN Hermosa would have less than significant impacts related to the provision of fire protection, law enforcement, school, park, library, wastewater conveyance and treatment, stormwater drainage, water supply, and solid waste generation facilities and services. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would result in similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa. However, the current General Plan, which would be continued under this alternative, does not include the same focus on conservation of resources and sustainability policies and programs that are contained in PLAN Hermosa. A lesser focus on resource conservation policies would generally result in greater consumption or disposal of water, wastewater, solid waste, and energy, which could contribute to greater impacts on wastewater treatment facilities, water supply, solid waste facilities, and energy consumption on an individual and cumulative basis. Therefore, impacts related to the provision of public services and utilities would be greater. Alternative 2 The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative would follow the same general footprint of development and public services -related policies; thus, demand for public services would be largely the same as those with PLAN Hermosa. However, this alternative would require significant public investment to be implemented, and additional City spending might ultimately impact funding for public services. Thus, the impacts of Alternative 2 are expected to be similar to PLAN Hermosa as long as PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-22 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT funding for public services is not significantly diverted for emissions reduction projects and programs. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would follow the same general footprint of development and would include similar public services -related policies as PLAN Hermosa. This alternative would also include similar sustainability and resource conservation policies as the plan. Thus, demand for public services would be largely the same as those of PLAN Hermosa, and impacts to public services under this alternative are expected to be similar to the plan. TRANSPORTATION The environmental analysis of the proposed project examined direct and cumulative impacts related to congestion and level of service (LOS) standards, conflicts with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program, conflicts to air traffic patterns, creation of design hazards, impacts to emergency vehicle access, and impacts to transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Impacts related to conflict with the Congestion Management Program, design hazards, emergency access, and public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities would be less than significant. As it relates to LOS standards, PLAN Hermosa was evaluated for potential impacts to 13 intersections and 20 roadway segments in Hermosa Beach. Based on the analysis of volume -to - capacity ratios for these study intersections and roadway segments, three intersections and one roadway segment would operate at a reduced level of service compared to existing conditions, thereby causing a potentially significant impact. The three intersections where level of service would be LOS D or lower are Pacific Coast Highway and Artesia Boulevard; Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard, and Manhattan Avenue and 27th Street. Opportunities to apply physical mitigations at these intersections to improve LOS were investigated, but were ultimately deemed infeasible because they would conflict with other impact areas, potentially adding roadway hazards or decreasing safety for other modes of transportation. Therefore, impacts to these three intersections would be considered a significant and unavoidable impact. Through implementation of PLAN Hermosa, the roadway segment on Prospect Avenue from Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street would be degraded from its current operation at LOS C to LOS D by 2040. While this operation is improved from the projected LOS E that would be experienced under the 2040 scenario without PLAN Hermosa, it still represents a potentially significant impact. Opportunities to expand roadway volume on this segment through physical changes to the street were explored but were ultimately deemed infeasible. In order to mitigate this impact, Prospect Avenue would need to be widened to accommodate an additional lane of travel in each direction, which would require removal of on -street parking and/or expansion of the street right- of-way. This would additionally conflict with other impact areas, potentially adding roadway hazards or decreasing safety for other modes of transportation. Therefore, the impacts to this roadway segment would be considered a significant and unavoidable impact. Alternative 1 The No Project Alternative would generate similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa; however, this alternative would result in an increase of approximately 30,000 daily VMT and 2,600 daily VT. Alternative 1 was evaluated specifically for impacts to the 13 study intersections and 20 roadway segments. The analysis identified that nine of the 13 study intersections would have greater impacts, including greater impacts to all three intersections identified as significant and unavoidable impacts, and that five of the 20 roadway segments would experience greater impacts than with PLAN Hermosa. Therefore, this alternative City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-23 • • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT would result in greater impacts related to level of service performance standards compared to the plan. Additionally, the No Project Alternative would not include the policies and implementation actions that would balance the need for complete streets and alternative modes of transportation with efficient movement of vehicles. Therefore, impacts related to conflict with the Congestion Management Program, design hazards, emergency access, and public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities would also be greater compared to PLAN Hermosa. Alternative 2 Under the 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative, a suite of additional land use and transportation measures would be implemented with the express intent of reducing vehicle miles traveled by shortening trip lengths, eliminating trips, and shifting trips from conventionally fueled automobiles to electric vehicles powered by renewable energy sources. The policies to reduce total vehicle miles traveled would reduce VMT by an additional 13 percent, which would reduce the congestion burden on the road network. This alternative would support improvements to the level of service at the three intersections identified as having significant and unavoidable impacts under PLAN Hermosa, though may not necessarily mitigate impacts to a level that is less than significant. For roadway segments, this alternative would improve LOS performance of four roadway segments, although it may not mitigate impacts to a less than significant level for impacted roadway segments. Additionally, Alternative 2 would include similar policies and implementation actions that would balance the need for complete streets and alternative modes of transportation with efficient movement of vehicles. Therefore, impacts related to conflict with the Congestion Management Program, design hazards, and emergency access would be similar compared to PLAN Hermosa, while impacts to public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities would be lesser than with the plan due to greater implementation of TDM measures and pursuit of regional transportation options. Alternative 3 The Character Retention Alternative would generate similar amounts of residential and commercial development as PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, this alternative would retain transportation and mobility goals, policies, and implementation actions that mirror PLAN Hermosa to balance the need for complete streets and alternative modes of transportation with the efficient movement of vehicles. Therefore, impacts related to conflict with the Congestion Management Program, design hazards, emergency access, and public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities would be similar to the plan. 6.0.4 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS OF EACH ALTERNATIVE COMPARED TO PLAN HERMOSA The factors that may be used to eliminate alternatives from detailed consideration in an EIR include (1) failure to meet most of the basic project objectives, (2) infeasibility of implementation, or (3) inability to lessen or avoid significant environmental effects (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6[c]). A summary of how each alternative compares to these factors is provided following Table 6.0-5 (Comparison of Environmental Impacts of Alternatives to PLAN Hermosa), which summarizes the environmental impacts of each alternative and compares these relative impacts to the environmental impacts of PLAN Hermosa. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-24 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT TABLE 6.0-5 COMPARISON OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVES TO PLAN HERMOSA Issue Area Proposed Project Potential Impacts of Alternatives Without Mitigation WithCarbon Mitigation No Project Neutral by 2030 Character Retention 4.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources Greater Greater Lesser 4.1-1 Scenic Vistas and Viewsheds LTS LTS 4.1-2 Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway LTS LTS - • • • 4.1-3 Visual Character LTS LTS • w 4.1-4 Shade and Shadow LTS LTS • • w 4.1-5 Light or Glare LTS LTS • • 4.1-6 Cumulative Visual Resources LTCC LTCC . w 4.2 Air Quality Greater Lesser Similar 4.2-1 Applicable Air Quality Plan LTS LTS • 4.2-2 Violate Air Quality Standards - Short -Term Impacts PS SU • 4.2-3 Violate Air Quality Standards - Long -Term Impacts LTS LTS -. • 4.2-4 Increase in Criteria Pollutants - CO Hot Spots LTS LTS A • 4.2-5 Toxic Air Contaminants LTS LTS • 42-6 Odors LTS LTS • • • 4.2-7 Cumulative Air Quality Impacts CC CC/SU • 4.3 Biological Resources Similar Greater Similar 4.3-1 Special -Status Species PS LTS • 4.3-2 Sensitive Biological Communities or Riparian Habitat NI NI • • • 4.3-3 Wetlands LTS LTS • • • 4.3-4 Movement or Migration of Wildlife Species LTS LTS • • 4.3-5 Conflict with Species Protection Policies or Ordinances LTS LTS • • • 4.3-6 Cumulative Effects on Biological Resources LTCC LTCC • • 4.4 Cultural Resources Greater Greater Lesser 4.4-1 Archaeological Resources LTS LTS .. • • 4.4-2 Disturbance of Human Remains LTS LTS • • • 4.4-3 Paleontological Resource, Site, or Geologic Feature PS LTS • • 4.4-4 Historical Resources PS SU w 4.4-5 Cumulative Effects on Archaeological Resources CC LTCC • • 4.4-6 Cumulative Effects on Human Remains CC LTCC • • • 4.4-7 Cumulative Effects on Paleontological Resources CC LTCC • • 4.4-8 Cumulative Effects on Historical Resources CC CC/SU City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 6.0-25 • PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • • Issue Area Proposed Project Potential Impacts of Alternatives Without Mitigation With Mitigation No Project Carbon Neutral by 2030 Character Retention 4.5 Geology and Soils Similar Similar Similar 4.5-1 Fault Rupture and Seismic Hazards LTS LTS • • • 4.5-2 Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil LTS LTS • • • 4.5-3 Unstable and Expansive Soils LTS LTS • • • 4.5-4 Cumulative Geologic and Soil Hazards LTCC LTCC • • • 4.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Greater Lesser Greater 4.6-1 Generate GHG Emissions PS LTS 4.6-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation LTS LTS - • • 4.7 Hazards and Hazardous Materials Similar Similar Similar 4.7-1 Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials LTS LTS • • • 4.7-2 Accidental Release of Hazardous Materials PS LTS • • • 4.7-3 Emission or Handling of Hazardous Materials Near Schools LTS LTS • • • 4.7-4 Adopted Emergency Response Plan LTS LTS • • • 4.7-5 Cumulative Effects of Hazardous Materials LTCC LTCC • • • 4.8 Hydrology and Water Quality Greater Similar Similar 4.8-1 Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements LTS LTS • • • 4.8-2 Groundwater Supplies or Recharge LTS LTS • • • 4.8-3 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - Off -Site Erosion or Siltation LTS LTS • • • 4.8-4 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - On- or Off -Site Flooding LTS LTS • • • 4.8-5 Surface Hydrology and Drainage - Water Runoff LTS LTS • • • 4.8-6 Water Quality LTS LTS • • • 4.8-7 Housing within Flood Hazard Area LTS LTS • • 4.8-8 Impede or Redirect Flood Flows LTS LTS • • 4.8-9 Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding LTS LTS • • 4.8-10 Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow LTS LTS • • • 4.8-11 Cumulative Effects on Water Quality Standards and Waste Discharge Requirements LTCC LTCC • • • 4.8-12 Cumulative Effects on Groundwater Supply or Recharge LTCC LTCC • • • 4.8-13 Cumulative Effects on Surface Hydrology and Flooding LTCC LTCC • • • 4.8-14 Cumulative Effects on Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Flooding LTCC LTCC • • 4.8-15 Cumulative Effects of Inundation by Seiche, Tsunami, or Mudflow LTCC LTCC • • • 4.9 Land Use and Planning Greater Similar Similar 4.9-1 Physically Divide an Established Community LTS LTS • • • 4.9-2 Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation LTS LTS .. • • PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-26 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Issue Area Proposed Project Potential Impacts of Alternatives Without Mitigation With Mitigation No Project Carbon Neutral by 2030 Character Retention 4.9-3 Cumulative Impact on Dividing a Community or Conflicting with a Plan LTCC LTCC • • • 4.10 Mineral Resources Similar Similar Similar 4.10-1 Result in the Loss of Availability of Mineral Resources NI NI • • • 4.11 Noise and Vibration Greater Lesser Lesser 4.11-1 Noise Levels in Excess of Standards LTS LTS A • 4.11-2 Groundborne Vibration or Groundborne Noise Levels PS LTS • 4.11-3 Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels LTS LTS • 4.11-4 Temporary or Periodic Increase in Ambient Noise Levels LTS LTS • • 4.11-5 Cumulative Effects of Noise Sources LTCC LTCC N, • 4.12 Population and Housing Similar Similar Similar 4.12-1 Induce Substantial Population Growth LTS LTS • • • 4.12-2 Displace People or Housing LTS LTS • • • 4.12-3 Cumulative Inducement of Population Growth LTCC LTCC • • • 4.12-4 Cumulative Impacts on Displacing People or Housing LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13 Public Services Greater Similar Similar 4.13.2-1 Demand for Fire Protection Services LTS LTS • • • 4.13.2-2 Cumulative Demand for Fire Protection Services LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13.3-1 Demand for Law Enforcement Services LTS LTS • • • 4.13.3-2 Cumulative Demand for Law Enforcement Services LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13.4-1 Demand for Additional School Facilities LTS LTS • • • 4.13.4-2 Cumulative Demand for Additional School Facilities LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13.5-1 Demand for Additional Park Facilities LTS LTS • • • 4.13.5-2 Cumulative Demand for Parks and Recreation Facilities LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13.6-1 Demand for Additional Library Facilities LTS LTS • • • 4.13.6-2 Cumulative Demand for Library Facilities LTCC LTCC • • • 4.13.7-1 Wastewater Treatment Facilities Exceeding Influent Flows Beyond Permitted Capacity LTS LTS A • 4.13.7-2 Demand for New or Expanded Water or Wastewater Treatment Facilities LTS LTS . • 4.13.7-3 Demand for Stormwater Drainage Facilities LTS LTS • • 4.13.7-4 Demand for Water Supplies Beyond Projections LTS LTS .- • 4.13.7-5 Exceed Capacity for Wastewater Treatment LTS LTS A • 4.13.7-6 Cumulative Water Supply Impacts LTCC LTCC a. • 4.13.7-7 Cumulative Wastewater Impacts LTCC LTCC A • City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 • 6.0-27 • PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT • • Issue Area Proposed Project Potential Impacts of Alternatives Without Mitigation With Mitigation No Project Carbon Neutral by 2030 Character Retention 4.13.8-1 Demand for Solid Waste Disposal LTS LTS A • 4.13.8-2 Compliance with Solid Waste Disposal Regulations LTS LTS A • 4.13.8-3 Cumulative Solid Waste Impacts LTCC LTCC A • 4.13.9-1 Demand for Additional Energy Resources LTS LTS A • 4.13.9-2. Cumulative Energy Consumption Impacts LTCC LTCC A 'V • 4.14 Transportation Greater Lesser Similar 4.14-1 Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards A A 4.14 -la Intersections 10/13 LTS 10/13 LTS A - • 1. Hermosa Ave &13th St LTS LTS Q 2. Hermosa Ave & Pier Ave LTS LTS o 0 • 3. Pacific Coast Hwy & Artesia Blvd PS SU A - 0 4. Pacific Coast Hwy & Aviation Blvd PS SU A - 0 5. Pacific Coast Hwy & Pier Ave LTS LTS A 0 0 6. Pacific Coast Hwy & 2nd St LTS LTS A 0 O 7. Pacific Coast Hwy & 16th St LTS LTS 0 0 8. Pacific Coast Hwy & 21st St LTS LTS A 0 0 9. Prospect Ave & Artesia Blvd LTS LTS A 0 0 10. Prospect Ave & Aviation Blvd LTS LTS A 0 11. Prospect Ave & Anita St LTS LTS 0 A 0 12. Manhattan Ave & 27th St PS SU A - 0 13. Valley Drive &Gould Ave LTS LTS A. 0 0 4.14 -lb Roadway Segments 19/20 LTS 19/20 LTS A - • 1. Hermosa Avenue (27th Street to 22nd Street) LTS LTS a © 0 2. Hermosa Avenue (22nd Street to 16th Street) LTS LTS 0 0 0 3. Hermosa Avenue (16th Street to 8th Street) LTS LTS 0 0 e 4. Hermosa Avenue (8th Street to Herondo Street) LTS LTS • 0 o 5. Valley Drive (Gould Avenue to Pier Avenue) LTS LTS 0 0 0 6. Valley Drive (Pier Avenue to 8th Street) LTS LTS 0 o 0 7. Ardmore Avenue (16th Street to 11th Street) LTS LTS 0 a 0 8. Ardmore Avenue (8th Street to 2nd Street) LTS LTS 0 0 0 9. Pacific Coast Highway (Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard) LTS LTS A - 0 10. Pacific Coast Highway (Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street) LTS LTS 0 - Q 11. Prospect Avenue (Artesia Boulevard to Aviation Boulevard) LTS LTS o 0 0 PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-28 City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Issue Area Proposed Project Potential Impacts of Alternatives Without Mitigation With Mitigation No Project Carbon Neutral by 2030 Character Retention 12. Prospect Avenue (Aviation Boulevard to 2nd Street) PS SU Less Than Cumulatively Considerable — if impacts, cumulative in nature, were determined to be less than significant SU • 13. Artesia Blvd (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS Similar = impacts are similar to PLAN Hermosa , 0 14. Aviation Blvd (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS 0 • 15. Pier Avenue (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS 0 0 0 16. Pier Avenue (Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway) LTS LTS 0 • 0 17. Gould Avenue (Ardmore Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway) _ LTS LTS • 0 0 18. 8th Street (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS • 0 0 19. 8th Street (Pacific Coast Highway to Prospect Avenue) LTS LTS • 0 • 20. Herondo Street (Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive) LTS LTS • 0 4.14-2 Conflict with the LA County Congestion Management Program LTS LTS . • • 4.14-3 Air Traffic Patterns LTS LTS • • • 4.14-4 Roadway Design Hazards LTS LTS • • 4.14-5 Adequate Emergency Access LTS LTS • • 4.14-6 Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities LTS LTS w • 4.14-7 Cumulative Exceedance of LOS Performance Standards CC CC • 4.14-8 Cumulative Impact on LA County Congestion Management Program LTCC LTCC .. • • 4.14-9 Cumulative Effect on Air Traffic Patterns LTCC LTCC • • • 4.14-10 Cumulative Roadway Design Hazards LTCC LTCC • • 4.14-11 Cumulative Effect on Emergency Access LTCC LTCC • • 4.14-12 Cumulative Effect on Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities LTCC LTCC - • Symbol Definition LTS Less Than Significant — if impacts were identified as less than significant in the technical analysis PS Potentially Significant — if impacts were identified as potentially significant NI No Impact — if no impacts were identified in the technical analysis CC Cumulatively Considerable — if impacts, cumulative in nature, were determined to be significant LTCC Less Than Cumulatively Considerable — if impacts, cumulative in nature, were determined to be less than significant SU Significant and Unavoidable — if impacts, after feasible mitigation measures were identified, remained a significant impact and determined unavoidable in the technical analysis Greater = impacts are greater than PLAN Hermosa • Similar = impacts are similar to PLAN Hermosa Lesser = level of significance is less than PLAN Hermosa, but the impact is not necessarily reduced to a less than significant level City of Hermosa Beach August 2017 6.0-29 • PLAN Hermosa Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report • • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT No Project Alternative Project Objectives The No Project Alternative would only partially meet the project objectives established for PLAN Hermosa. The existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan can reasonably achieve project objectives to enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy (Objective 2) and provide a safe and clean natural environment (Objective 4) by relying on the existing policies and programs related to economic development and resource conservation. Additionally, the existing General Plan contains an Urban Design Element; however, it fails to establish various character areas and identify the unique characteristics of each area, making it difficult to effectively achieve project Objective 1, to preserve the city's small beach town character. Finally, while the existing General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan contain policies and programs to reduce vehicle miles traveled and expand alternative modes of transportation, these documents do not identify promoting healthy and active lifestyles (Objective 3) and achieving a low or no carbon future (Objective 5) as the primary motivation for including such policies, nor do the mobility policies and programs contained in the existing General Plan advance the reduction in VMT sufficiently to claim that they can effectively achieve Objectives 3 and 5. Comparison of Environmental Impacts The No Project Alternative would not lessen any environmental impacts compared to PLAN Hermosa. Instead, it would have greater impacts to aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, noise and vibration, public services, community facilities, and utilities, and transportation. Carbon Neutral by 2030 Project Objectives The 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative has the ability to substantially support each of the project objectives. Implementation of this alternative would prioritize the achievement of a low or no carbon future (Objective 5), while also providing a safe and clean natural environment (Objective 4) and promoting healthy and active lifestyles through land use and transportation investments (Objective 3) by reducing air quality and transportation impacts compared to PLAN Hermosa. This alternative would also meet Objective 2, to enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy, as many of the land use and transportation policies that reduce vehicle miles traveled do so by providing a greater range of daily services and employment opportunities in closer proximity so that residents may reasonably choose alternative modes of transportation. While this alternative could cause greater impacts to cultural resources, and thereby potentially conflict with Objective 1, to preserve the city's small beach town character, additional mitigation measures and design standards could provide direction that minimizes the impacts associated with this alternative on cultural resources and aesthetics. Comparison of Environmental Impacts Alternative 2 could pose greater impacts to aesthetics and biological resources due to increased use of renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, or ocean -based renewable energy sources, and greater impacts to cultural resources due to greater alteration or demolition of designated or potentially eligible historic resources to construct high energy performance buildings. While the impacts to aesthetics, biological resources, and cultural resources may be greater than with PLAN Hermosa, it is unknown whether they would rise to the level of being considered a significant impact, because the specific design and location of additional renewable energy projects cannot be determined at this time. This alternative would also have far-reaching environmental benefits for Hermosa Beach by decreasing impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, noise and vibration, and transportation. Air pollutants associated with the burning of fuel for building energy and PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-30 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT transportation uses would be reduced. Noise levels would likely be somewhat lower, as the primary source of noise in Hermosa Beach is automobile use. Reduced automobile use and an increase in electric vehicles, which are quieter than gasoline- and diesel -powered vehicles, would reduce noise levels. Transportation impacts would also likely be decreased because this alternative would result in a reduction in vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled. Character Retention Alternative Project Objectives The Character Retention Alternative prioritizes achievement of Objective 1, to preserve the city's small beach town character, and Objective 2, to enhance and support a strong, diverse, and vibrant local economy through safe and beautiful commercial corridors, but would not conflict or prevent the achievement of the other project objectives. This alternative would provide similar policies and implementation actions to PLAN Hermosa related to the mobility network, transportation enhancements, and resource conservation, meaning it would equally achieve project Objective 3, to promote healthy and active lifestyles, and Objective 4, to provide a safe and clean environment including clean air and water. While this alternative may have a slightly greater impact on greenhouse gas emissions, it would carry forward similar policies to PLAN Hermosa related to reducing emissions from transportation sources, water conservation, and diverting solid waste from landfills to support a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions partially consistent with Objective 5, to achieve a low or no carbon future. Additional mitigation measures and design standards could provide direction to implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects consistent with standards for the treatment of historical resources to minimize the impacts associated with this alternative on greenhouse gas emissions while retaining the historical significance of designated landmarks and the eligibility of potentially historic resources. Comparison of Environmental Impacts This Character Retention Alternative would pose greater impacts to greenhouse gas emissions compared to PLAN Hermosa. The challenge of renovating or constructing high energy performance buildings in a manner that does not diminish the significance of a historical resource or cause potentially eligible historic resources to become ineligible due to alterations that are inconsistent with standards for the treatment of historical resources is presented in this alternative. This alternative would also reduce impacts associated with aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, and cultural resources, where construction -related air quality impacts and the significance of a historical resource are both considered significant and unavoidable impacts under implementation of PLAN Hermosa. However, it is unknown whether this alternative would lessen these impacts to levels that are considered less than significant. 6.0.5 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE CEQA requires a lead agency to identify the "environmentally superior alternative." Based on the alternative analysis, both the 2030 Carbon Neutral Alternative and the Character Retention Alternative would reduce several of the categories listed as potentially significant or significant and unavoidable under PLAN Hermosa. The No Project Alternative would have potentially greater impacts to several categories, including aesthetics and visual resources, air quality, cultural resources, greenhouse gas emissions, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, noise and vibration, public services, and transportation. The 2030 Carbon Neutrality Alternative would also have potentially greater impacts to aesthetics and visual resources, biological resources, and cultural resources, while the Character Retention Alternative would only cause potentially greater impacts to one category, greenhouse gas emissions. For this reason, the Character Retention Alternative is considered the environmentally superior alternative. City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 6.0-31 • 6.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT 6.0.6 REFERENCES City of Hermosa Beach. 2015. PLAN Hermosa (public review draft). 2016. City of Hermosa Beach Carbon Planning Tool. https://hermosabeach.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx? ID=2281885&G U ID=5192A329-FBB9- 46E4-AFOE-4FBE5BC73A58. PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 6.0-32 7.0 REPORT PREPARERS 0 • 7.0 REPORT PREPARERS • LEAD AGENCY CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH Lead Agency Contact: Ken Robertson, Community Development Director Kim Chafin, AICP, LEED-AP, Senior Planner Lauren Langer, Consulting City Attorney Ed Almanza, CEQA Consultant PROGRAM CONSULTANTS RAIMI + ASSOCIATES Matt Raimi Project Director Matt Burris Project Manager Leeanne Singleton Senior Planner EIR CONSULTANTS MICHAEL BAKER INTERNATIONAL Jeff Henderson Project Director Tad Stearn EIR Project Director • Pat Angell EIR Project Director Darcy Kremin EIR Project Manager Florentina Craciun EIR Deputy Project Manager Julian Capata Senior Planner Seth Myers Senior Planner Alice Tackett Senior Planner Michael Martin Senior Planner Adam Grace Graphics Suzanne Wirth Technical Editor City of Hermosa Beach PLAN Hermosa August 2017 Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report 7.0-1 • 7.0 REPORT PREPARERS TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS FEHR & PEERS, TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION Jeremy Klop Rachel Neumann ESA PCR, CULTURAL RESOURCES, AIR QUALITY Heidi Rous Everest Yan Margarita Jerabek Kyle Garcia Amanda Kainer Chris Taylor WEILAND ACOUSTICS, NOISE David L. Wieland PLAN Hermosa City of Hermosa Beach Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2017 7.0-2 STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH I, Elaine Doerfling, City Clerk of the City of Hermosa Beach, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 17-7094 was duly and regularly passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hermosa Beach at a Regular Meeting of said Council at the regular place thereof on August 22, 2017. The vote was as follows: AYES: Amato, Duclos, Fangary, Petty, Mayor Massey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None Dated August 23, 2017 Elaine Doerfling, City • • • 1 2 3 RESOLUTION NO. 17-7095 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING PLAN HERMOSA, THE INTEGRATED GENERAL PLAN AND COASTAL LAND USE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. In July 2013, the City of Hermosa Beach initiated a comprehensive update to the General Plan, including the integration of the City's Coastal Land Use Plan consistent with guidance from the California Governor's Office of Planning and Research that "to simplify implementation, coastal zone communities should integrate both sets of requirements (General Plan Requirements and Coastal Act Requirements) into a coherent and internally consistent local general plan." SECTION 2. The Hermosa Beach community has had the opportunity to participate in the development and refinement of PLAN Hermosa through many avenues, including more than thirty City Council/Commission meetings to date (including Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Public Works Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission), five community workshops, three educational series sessions, two Citywide mailings, an online engagement opportunity, walking tours, and numerous press releases and reports in local papers about the process. At the direction of the City Council, the City Manager also appointed a fifteen - member General Plan Working Group, consisting of at least one representative of every City Commission as well as members of key community groups. The Working Group held more than a dozen meetings during the development of the PLAN Hermosa, during which the group provided feedback regarding key policy topics and input on the community engagement process. SECTION 3. PLAN Hermosa includes comprehensive revisions to all previous elements of the General Plan, with the exception of the Housing Element. PLAN Hermosa contains each of the seven required topics under Government Code Section 65302, as follows: Page 1 of 9 • A. Land Use, contained in the Land Use + Design Element, describing the general distribution and location of land uses, standards of population density and building intensity; B. Circulation, contained in the Mobility Element, describing the general location and extent of existing and proposed thoroughfares and transportation routes, correlated with the land use element; C. Housing is not included in this update and was certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development on October 18, 2013; D. Conservation, contained in the Sustainability + Conservation Element for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources; E. Open Space, contained in the Parks + Open Space Element; identifying areas intended to preserve natural resources, serve outdoor recreational needs, and demand/opportunity for recreational trails; F. Noise, contained in the Public Safety Element, analyzing current and projected noise levels from vehicles and stationary sources, providing noise contour maps for these sources, and discussing possible solutions to address noise problems; and G. Safety, contained in the Public Safety Element, for the protection of the community from seismic hazards, flooding, and other risks. SECTION 4. PLAN Hermosa also addresses several optional topics that are of particular importance to the Hermosa Beach community, as allowed by Government Code section 65303, including Governance and Infrastructure Elements. SECTION 5. The City of Hermosa Beach does not include any land classified as state responsibility areas, as defined in Section 4102 of the Public Resources Code, or very high fire hazard severity zones, as defined in Section 51177 and therefore the Public Safety Element is not subject to the requirements and guidance identified in California Government Code Section 65302(g)(3) regarding fire hazards. Additionally, the City of Hermosa Beach does not include any disadvantaged communities, as defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment's CalEnviroScreen 2.0 Tool or designated through the implementation of Senate Bill 535. Therefore the General Plan for the City of Hermosa Beach is not subject to the requirements Page 2 of 9 identified in California Government Code Section 65302(h)(3) to prepare an Environmental Justice Element. SECTION 6. Pursuant to Senate Bill 379 and California Government Code Section 65302(g)(4), the Public Safety Element has been developed to address climate adaptation and resiliency strategies applicable to the City of Hermosa Beach and is consistent with the Governor's Office of Planning and Research advice to: • conduct a vulnerability assessment identifying climate change risks; • include a set of adaptation and resilience goals, policies, and objectives based on the identified climate change vulnerabilities; • identify a set of feasible implementation measures designed to carry out the goals, policies, and objectives; and • incorporate a reference to the local hazard mitigation plan that fulfills goals and objectives and contains information related to climate change vulnerability and adaptation policies. In the preparation of the Public Safety Element, the City of Hermosa Beach utilized the Cal Adapt Tool and California Adaptation Planning Guide to identify climate change risks and determined that sea level rise and extreme heat are the primary risk to Hermosa Beach. The impacts of sea level rise were further evaluated in two studies: a social vulnerability assessment and infrastructure vulnerability assessment to sea level rise. The findings in these studies were summarized in the Public Safety Element, and a set of goals, policies, and implementation actions to address sea level rise have been identified. The Public Safety Element also incorporates by reference the City of Hermosa Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which considers the effects of climate change to increase the frequency or severity of hazards and contains additional information on the assets, resources, and populations that may be at risk to various hazards. SECTION 7. Portions of the City of Hermosa Beach are located within the Coastal Zone and subject to the requirements of the California Public Resources Code, Division 20, California Coastal Act of 1976, to prepare a Local Coastal Program consisting of a Coastal Land Use Plan and Implementation Plan. PLAN Hermosa includes comprehensive revisions to the City's Coastal Land Use Plan, previously certified by the California Coastal Commission in 1982. PLAN Hermosa Page 3 of 9 • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 '7R contains each of the required topics for a Local Coastal Program as detailed in Chapter 3 of the California Coastal Act (Public Resources Code Division 20 Section 30200) as follows: A. Public Access, containing policies regarding recreational opportunities, development projects, public facilities and lower cost visitor and recreational facilities within the Land Use + Design, Mobility, Parks + Open Space and Infrastructure Elements; B. Recreation, including protection of certain water -oriented activities, protection of oceanfront land for recreational use, and priority of development purposes within the Land Use + Design, Mobility, and Parks + Open Space Elements; C. Marine Environment, containing policies regarding water quality, hazardous substance spills, movement of sediment, construction altering natural shoreline, water supply and flood control contained within the Sustainability + Conservation, Public Safety, and Infrastructure Elements; D. Land Resources, including environmentally sensitive habitat areas, productivity of soils, and archaeological or paleontological resources contained within the Governance, Land Use + Design, Sustainability + Conservation, Parks + Open Space Elements; E. Development, containing policies regarding existing developed area, scenic and visual qualities, maintenance and enhancement of public access, minimization of adverse impacts, public works facilities, and priority of coastal -dependent developments within the Governance, Land Use + Design, Parks + Open Space, Public Safety, and Infrastructure Elements; and F. Industrial Development, including location or expansion of coastal -dependent industrial facilities, and renewable energy development contained within the Land Use + Design and Sustainability + Conservation Elements. SECTION 8. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), the City, acting as Lead Agency, circulated a Notice of Preparation ("NOP") for the project on August 7, 2015, beginning a 30 -day review period. As part of the Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") scoping process, the City held a public scoping meeting at the Planning Commission meeting on August 18, 2015, in the Hermosa Beach City Council Chambers. The NOP and letters received in response to the NOP from both public agencies and members of the public are included in Appendix Page 4 of 9 • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 • 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 • :: B of the Draft EIR. The Draft EIR was circulated for a 72 -day review period beginning October 26, 2016 and ending on. January 5, 2017. As part of the Draft EIR review process, the Planning Commission held a special meeting on November 21, 2016 to take public comment on the Draft EIR. The Final EIR was made public on February 9, 2017. Revisions to the Final EIR have been made based on Planning Commission and City Council review and changes to PLAN Hermosa. All required notifications were provided pursuant to CEQA (Public Resources Code Section 21092.5) and all comment letters were incorporated into the Final EIR. SECTION 9. In accordance with Senate Bill 18 (SB '18) and Government Code 69352.3, and Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) and Government Code 21000, the City of Hermosa Beach requested a list of Tribal Organization contacts from the Native American Heritage Commission in April 2014. The City of Hermosa Beach sent notifications to the appropriate tribal organizations in January 2015 in compliance with SB 18, and again in August 2015 to comply with AB 52. The City has complied with the requirements for tribal consultation and the findings of consultation process can be found as Attachment D to the Resolution No. 17-7094. SECTION 10. The Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa was made available to the public on December 15, 2015 as follows: digital copies were posted on the City's website, and hard copies were available for review at the Community Development Counter of City Hall, the Police Department, the Community Center and the Hermosa Beach Library. Hard copies were also made available to the community free of charge from the Community Development Department. A City- wide mailing was produced and sent to all addresses within the City in January 2016 to let the community know about opportunities to provide input or participate in meetings related to PLAN Hermosa. Written comments on the Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa were encouraged to be submitted between December 15, 2015 and February 25, 2016 and were presented for consideration by the City's Commissions during their review of PLAN Hermosa. Opportunities to provide verbal comments at the following public meetings: • January 25, 2016 — Joint Study Session of the Planning Commission, Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission Page 5 of 9 • • • 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 '7R • January 26, 2016 — Study Session of the City Council • February 5-6, 2016 — Community Open House and Walking Tours SECTION 11. The Planning Commission, Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission held public meetings to review the Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa between March 2016 and June 2016 on the following dates: • March 15, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • March 28, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • April 5, 2016 - Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting (Parks + Open Space Element) • April 18, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • April 19, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Mobility Element) • April 25, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Mobility Element) • May 9, 2016 - EPAC Meeting (Public Safety Element) • May 16, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Sustainability + Conservation) • May 18, 2016 - Public Works Commission Meeting (Mobility Element) • June 15, 2016 - Public Works Commission Meeting (Infrastructure, Public Safety Elements) • June 20, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Governance, Parks + Open Space, Infrastructure Elements) • June 21, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Public Safety Element) Through these meetings, all of the commissions have recommended modifications to the document. The Planning Commission held Public Hearings on February 22, 23, and 27, and March 13, 21, and 27, 2017 to review and identify additional recommended changes to PLAN Hermosa, based on previous input from the Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission, and public testimony and planning commissioner input provided during the public hearings. The changes to PLAN Hermosa that the Planning Commission recommended, were incorporated into the Planning Commission Recommended Draft prepared in March 2017 and provided to the City Council for review. Page 6 of 9 • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 • 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 • 27 7R SECTION 12. Copies of the Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa were submitted to the required state agencies for review on as part of the Environmental Review process on October 26, 2016. The City also consulted with local water and utility providers and other agencies in preparation of PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 13. Notice of the public hearings before the City Council was advertised in The Easy Reader Newspaper on June 29, 2017 and August 22, 2017. Notification of the City Council Study Sessions and Public Hearings was also provided to all tenants and property owners of all addresses in Hermosa Beach via mail, shared with the local press, and distributed via the City's eNotify, Nixle and Nextdoor communication systems to the Hermosa Beach community. SECTION 14. The Hermosa Beach City Council has held study sessions and duly noticed public hearings and has given all interested persons an opportunity to be heard on the adoption of PLAN Hermosa and the associated Environmental Impact Report through meetings on: • April 20, 2017 • May 23, 2017 • May 31, 2017 • June 13, 2017 • July 11, 2017 • July 17, 2017 • August 22, 2017 SECTION 15. The City of Hermosa Beach prepared the PLAN Hermosa Program EIR (State Clearinghouse #2015081009) in its capacity as lead agency under CEQA and in compliance with CEQA. The Final EIR consists of the NOP, Notice of Availability, the Draft EIR including technical appendices, the Responses to Comments, Final Corrections and Additions, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and the Project Findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations Recommending the adoption of PLAN Hermosa, these documents will be referred to collectively as the "Final EIR." These Findings are based on the entire record before the City Council, including the Final EIR. The City Council certified the EIR and adopted the Findings, Page 7 of 9 Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program in Resolution No. 17-7094. SECTION 16. PLAN Hermosa was completed in compliance with the requirements of California Government Code Section 65300 et seq. SECTION 17. The Hermosa Beach Planning Commission reviewed and considered PLAN Hermosa Public Review Draft, Dated. December 2015, and provided recommended changes that have been compiled as the Planning Commission Recommended Draft of PLAN Hermosa, dated March 2017. Through Study Sessions and Public Hearings, the City Council provided recommended changes that have been incorporated into the City Council Final Draft of PLAN Hermosa, dated August 2017, and finds that it is consistent with and reflective of the City's continuing goals, policies, actions and intent to adopt a general plan for the physical development of the City. The City Council of the Hermosa Beach has reviewed and considered the PLAN Hermosa, and finds that it is consistent with and reflective of the City's continuing goals, policies, actions and intent to adopt a general plan for the physical development of the City. Based on the foregoing evidence and findings, the City Council hereby amends the existing General Plan, with the exception of the City's Certified Housing Element, by replacing it with PLAN Hermosa as the General Plan of the City of Hermosa Beach. The City's Certified Housing Element shall remain in effect. SECTION 18. Based on evidence in the record, the City Council hereby finds that PLAN Hermosa is in conformance with the policies and requirements of Chapter 3 of the California Coastal Act, and recommends amending the existing certified Coastal Land Use Plan in its entirety by replacing it with PLAN Hermosa as the Coastal Land Use Plan portion of the City's Local Coastal Program. The City Council hereby further directs staff to create a complete LCP package, for future submission to the Coastal Commission, consisting of the Coastal Land Use Plan (LUP) and the Implementation Plan (IP) by: • preparing the Coastal Implementation Plan (IP), consisting of the coastal -related municipal code amendments, described in the Implementation Actions; • collaborating with Coastal Commission staff in reviewing both the LUP and IP for conformance with the California Coastal Act; and Page 8of9 • 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26', 27 lR • returning to the Planning Commission and City Council to review and consider the IP and if necessary, any amendments to the LUP so that the complete LCP may be formally submitted to the California Coastal Commission for certification, in conformance with the submittal requirements specified in California Code of Regulation, Title 14, Division 5.5, Chapter 8, Subchapter 2, Article 7 and Chapter 6, Article 2and Code of Regulations Section 13551, et. seq. SECTION 19. The City Council further finds that the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa should be the standard of review for determining consistency with the General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan for all future discretionary development projects. Project applications that have been submitted to the City and deemed complete prior to the date in which PLAN Hermosa has been adopted should consider and try to meet the vision in PLAN Hermosa, but to the extent that new mitigation measures, thresholds, zoning and development standards or implementation actions come from PLAN Hermosa, those would not apply to project applications that have been submitted and deemed complete by the City prior to the adoption of PLAN Hermosa. SECTION 20. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution, shall cause the original of the same to be entered among the original resolutions of the City Council and shall make a minute of the passage and adoption thereof in the minutes of the City Council meeting at which the same is passed and adopted. PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 22nd day of August, 2017. PRESIDENT o 1'he City Council • d MAYOR of the City of Hermosa Beach, California ATTEST: ROVED AS TO ORM: City Attorney Page 9 of 9 City of Hermosa Beach Integrated General Pian and Coastal Land Use Pian Adopted August 22, 2017 • L — a , C.L et' tte`Q‘_ hello. PLAN Hermosa presents our vision for Hermosa Beach over the next 25 years. This Plan is the culmination of a multi-year community -wide effort to reflect and define who we want to be as a community. We seek to retain our reputation as the "Best Little Beach City" while simultaneously enhancing our local economy and making strides to improve :0000 the health of our environment and our residents. PLAN Hermosa articulates the community vision through the integration of two important planning documents for the City of Hermosa Beach: the General Plan and Local Coastal Program. Organized around a framework for sustainability, each section of this Plan addresses different aspects of our community and identifies measurable actions to guide residents, decision -makers, businesses, and City staff toward achieving our vision. PLAN Hermosa establishes goals that will help us achieve our long term vision as a community that values our small beach town character, vibrant economy, and healthy environment and lifestyles. This is our plan for our future. We take great pride in this document, and we are committed to achieving our collective community vision. • acknowledgments. city council Justin Massey, Mayor Jeff Duclos , Mayor Pro Tem Stacey Armato Hany Fangary Carolyn Petty public works commission Janice Brittain Kathy Dunbabin Andrea Giancoli Kim MacMullan Justin Schnuelle planning commission Kent Allen Michael Flaherty Peter Hoffman Dave Pedersen Ron Pizer Marie Rice Rob Saemann parks + recreation commission Jessica Guheen Jani Lange Maureen Lewis Isabel Rodriguez Robert Rosenfeld emergency preparedness city staff advisory commission Alan Benson Dave Buckland Cheryl Cross William Hallett Gila Katz Dave Munoz Matt McCool Sergio Gonzalez, City Manager Tom Bakaly John Jalili Pete Bonano Michael Jenkins Andrew Brozyna Kathy Khang Kim Chafin Lauren Langer Viki Copeland Milton McKinnon Erin Concas Kristy Morris James Crawford Kelly Orta Nico De Anda-Scaia Sharon Papa Nicole Ellis Ken Robertson Ells Freeman Leeanne Singleton Aaron Gudelj Pamela Townsend This effort would not have been possible without the participation and commitment of the community to move Hermosa Beach forward. 41 • • • community working group Jennifer Buchsbaum Karen Cron Pat Escalante Michael Flaherty Lori Ford Andrea Giancoli Jessica Guheen Peter Hoffman Bob Jones Ruben Jubinsky technical advisory committee Mike Miller Dean Nota Glen Payne George Schmeltzer Justin Schnuelle Erica Seward Hermosa Beach Historical Society Hermosa Beach City School District Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce South Bay Cities Council of Governments Southern California Association of Governments City of Redondo Beach City of Manhattan Beach LA County Department of Beaches and Harbors Caltrans South Bay Bicycle Coalition LA County Metro consultant team USC Sea Grant California Coastal Commission - South Coast District Los Angeles Regional Collaborative for Climate Action and Sustainability Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Heal the Bay West Basin Water District Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission Surfrider Foundation - South Bay Chapter LA County Department of Public Health Beach Cities Health District Raimi + Associates Fehr & Peers Michael Baker International Lisa Wise Consulting Wieland Acoustics PCR Services Susi Moser Research & Consulting Funding support for this update was provided through grants from the California Strategic Growth Council and the California Coastal Commission. Icons provided by Noun Project: Rabee Balakrishnan, Frederico Panzano, Matt Brooks, Gloria Vigano, jon trillana, Gilad Fired, iconsmind.com, 23 icons, Simple Icons Images provided by Hermosa Beach Historical Society; Miller and Roberts, Images of America; Los Angeles Public Library Images Archive; City of Hermosa Beach; Raimi + Associates; Hermosa Beach Murals Project - John Van Hamersveld. PLAN HERMOSA I 5 contents. vision + guiding principles 7 key terms + concepts 9 introduction 19 1 governance 44 2 land use + design 61 3 mobility 115 4 sustainability + conservation 145 5 parks + open space 159 6 public safety 185 7 infrastructure 219 implementation 231 referenced plans 234 6l CNOUI. our vision for the future Vision Statement Hermosa Beach is the small town others aspire to be; a place where our beach culture, strong sense of community, and commitment to sustainability intersect. Our small town, beach culture Our beautiful beach, eclectic neighborhoods, unique commercial districts, and welcoming gateways create an unrivaled coastal destination. Our exceptional local schools and outstanding municipal services contribute to an extraordinarily high quality of life at the beach. Our vibrant local economy Hermosa Beach residents can work, shop, and play locally. Our economy capitalizes on our entrepreneurial spirit, our legacy of creativity, and our local businesses committed to enhancing Hermosa Beach's distinctive character. We effectively balance our small town, beach culture with our enviable position as a regional and statewide coastal destination. Our healthy environment and lifestyles Hermosa Beach is committed to protecting our coastal resources and takes a practical, fiscally -responsible approach to reducing our environmental footprint. Our beach and open spaces create unique places that support our active healthy lifestyle. Our complete streets ensure all places within our city are well-connected and easily accessible for all. Our commitment to a low -carbon future and our sustainable beach city identity attract residents, visitors, and businesses that embrace the opportunity to live and work in a healthy, active community. PLAN HERMOSA I 7 Guiding Principles • We seek to achieve our vision by making decisions and taking actions that help us to... Demonstrate our Contribute to our economic environmental leadership and fiscal stability • Hermosa Beach will be a responsible steward of our ocean resources, open space, and other natural resources as a healthy environment is the foundation of a more livable, sustainable city and high quality of life. • Efficient water use, conservation, reuse, recycling and retention at the local level is necessary for a sustainable and resilient city. • A steady, common sense approach is necessary to advance a long-term goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling environmental challenges early and pro actively will maximize options and minimize costs. • Moving to alternative energy sources and concurrently planning to adapt to climate change will reduce greenhouse gases, increase energy independence and resiliency. • Climate action and adoption of environmental targets will make Hermosa Beach an environmental leader in Southern California. Retain our high quality of life • Our small scale, eclectic architecture and vibrant beach lifestyle is an unrivaled coastal asset. • Our high quality schools, as well as fire, police, library and beach, shape our identity as a first class municipality. • Our beach, the ocean, green spaces and natural resources of all types are the foundation of our brand and high quality of life. • Creating a place where people can live, work and play locally is key to balancing economy, community and environment. • Our City government, places and spaces are designed to be accessible to connect people with all abilities and different stages of life. 8 I VISION + GUIDING PRINCIPLES • Our business mix serves the daily and leisure needs of our residents, while providing a quality experience for visitors. • Diversified districts with local businesses provide for the needs of residents, attract visitors, and support a robust and resilient economy. • Our sustainable, resilient economy is supported by keeping local dollars in the local economy and maintaining a diversity of businesses and revenue streams. • Our desire for a high quality of life requires balancing economy, environment, and community through a 'sustainability lens' and can attract like-minded entrepreneurs. • People are engaged in a broad range of enterprises creating a diverse economy and providing fiscal stability. Be a catalyst for innovation • Our business culture cultivates innovation, the arts/creative industries, locally owned business, and environmental stewardship. • Innovative, forward -thinking approaches to anticipating future lifestyles, transportation trends and environmental realities are necessary for creating a durable sustainability plan. key terms + nc pts This section identifies the acronyms and defines the key terms and concepts that can be found and used throughout the document. They are presented alphabetically for ease of reference. Acronyms yv "fir ronYm k NTerm b},,:.o rrw<m58a .fir," ADA N'�51 Jr x A ^i *w y� p ���� m�i;;;� � , tw+. �v5 ; " ��rd . q " Americans with Disabilities Act AED Automated External Defibrillators AFY acre foot per year B Beach BAU Business As Usual BCHD Beach Cities Health District BCT Beach Cities Transit CBRNE chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive release CC Community Commercial CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CERT Community Emergency Response Teams CHP California Highway Patrol CI Creative Light Industrial CIP Capital Improvement Program CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level CoSMoS Coastal Storm Modeling System CPTED Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design dB Decibels Du/ac Dwelling units per acre DUE Days Used by Events EMS Emergency Medical Response EOC Emergency Operations Center EOP Emergency Operations Plan ESHA Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas EV Electric Vehicles FAR Floor Area Ratio FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency GC Gateway Commercial GHG greenhouse gases GIS Geographic Information Systems HBCSD . Hermosa Beach City School District PLAN HERMOSA I 9 Acronym HBNW Term r '}faA Via' Hermosa Beach Neighborhood Watch HBPD Hermosa Beach Police Department HD High Density Residential kWh kilowatt hours Metro Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority LADOT Los Angeles Department of Transportation LCP Local Coastal Program LD Low Density Residential LID Low Impact Development LUP Land Use Plan MD Medium Density Residential MH Mobile Home MRZ Mineral Resource Zones MS4 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System MTCO,e Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalents NC Neighborhood Commercial NEV Neighborhood Electric Vehicles NIMS National Incident Management System NOAA National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System OS Open Space PACE Property Assessed Clean Energy PAD Public Access Defibrillation PCH Pacific Coast Highway PF Public Facilities RC Recreational Commercial RCC South Bay Regional Public Communications Authority SBCCOG South Bay Cities Council of Governments SC Service Commercial SCAG Southern California Association of Governments SCE Southern California Edison SEMS Standardized Emergency Management System TDM Transportation Demand Management TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load UBC Uniform Building Code USGS United States Geological Survey VIP Volunteers in Policing VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled 10 I KEY TERMS + CONCEPTS • • • • Definitions Accessory A building, part of a building or structure, or use which is subordinate to, and the use of which is incidental to that of the main building, structure or use on the same lot. Acre -Foot Per Year (AFY) The volume of water necessary to cover one acre to a depth of one foot. Equal to 43,560 cubic feet, 325,851 gallons or 1,233 cubic meters. Acreage Gross - The land area that exists prior to any dedications for public use, health and safety purposes. Net - The portion of a site that can actually be built upon, which is the land area remaining after dedication of ultimate rights-of-way for: exterior boundary streets, flood ways, public parks and other open space developed to meet minimum standards required by City ordinance, or utility easements and rights-of-way. Active Solar System A system that uses a mechanical device, such as electric pumps or fans, in addition to solar energy to transport air or water between a solar collector and the interior of a building for heating or cooling. Adverse Impact A negative consequence for the physical, social, or economic environment resulting from an action. Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA Standards establish design requirements for the construction and alteration of facilities subject to the law. These enforceable standards apply to places of public accommodation, commercial facilities, and state and local government facilities. Archaeological Resource Material evidence of past human activity found below the surface of ground or water, portions of which may be visible above the surface. Base Flood (100 -year flood) In any given year, a flood that has a 1 percent likelihood of occurring, and is recognized as a standard for acceptable risk. (See "Floodplain") Bikeways Bicycle Path (Class I facility) - A dedicated route, not on a street or roadway, reserved for bicycles and other non -motorized activities. Bicycle paths may parallel roads, but are typically separated by landscaping or other barriers. Bicycle Lane (Class II facility) - A corridor expressly reserved for bicycles, existing on a roadway in addition to lanes for use by motorized vehicles. Bicycle Route (Class III facility) - A roadway shared with motorists and identified by signs or other markings such as sharrows. Separated Bikeway/Cycle Track (Class IV facility) - A bike facility that minimizes interactions with other modes of travel adjacent to a roadway by providing a physical separation or barrier from through traffic and vehicle lanes. Buffer Zone An area established between potentially conflicting land uses, which, depending on the impact, may utilize landscaping or structural barriers such as setbacks or roads. Building Height The vertical distance from the average contact ground level of a building to the highest point of the coping, whether a flat roof, the deck line of a mansard roof, or to the mean height level between eaves and ridge for a gable, hip, or gambrel roof. Build -out Development of land to its full potential, or theoretical capacity, as permitted under current or proposed planning or zoning designations. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Legislation and corresponding procedural components established in 1970 by the State of California to require environmental review for projects anticipated to result in adverse impacts. Capital Improvements Program (CIP) A program administered by a City and reviewed by its Planning Commission that schedules permanent improvements, usually for a minimum of five years in the future, that fits the projected fiscal capability of the jurisdiction. The CIP generally is reviewed on an annual basis for conformance to and consistency with the General Plan. PLAN HERMOSA I 11 Carrying Capacity Used in determining the potential of an area to absorb development: (1) The level of land use, human activity or development for a specific area that can be permanently accommodated without an irreversible change in the quality of air, water, land, or plant and animal habitats. (2) The upper limits of development beyond which the quality of human life, health, welfare, safety or community character within an area will be impaired. (3) The maximum level of development allowable under current zoning. (See "Build -out") Character Area A defined geographic area of the city with distinct features or characteristics in terms of building orientation and street characteristics. The community is organized into a series of neighborhoods, corridors and districts which each have their own established character. City City with a capital "C" generally refers to the City government or administration. City with a lower case "c" may mean any city or may refer to the geographical area. City limits The legal boundaries of the geographical area subject to the jurisdiction of the City of Hermosa Beach government. For example, development applications for properties located within the City limits must be reviewed by the City. Coastal Access Vertical (perpindicular to the shoreline) and lateral (parallel to the shoreline) points that facilitate access to the coast. Coastal Dependent Use Any development or use which requires a site on or adjacent to, the sea to be able to function at all. Coastal Related Use Any use that is dependent on a coastal - dependent development or use. Commercial A land use designation that allows for a wide range of land use types, including retail, entertainment and professional offices, often serving neighborhoods with services and retail goods of interest to residents. Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) A 24-hour energy equivalent level derived from a variety of single -noise events, with weighting factors of 5 and 10 dBA applied to the evening (7 PM to 10 PM) and nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM) periods, respectively, to allow for the greater sensitivity to noise during these hours. Community Park A large park, generally one acre or more, that includes a mix of passive and active recreation areas that serve the entire city or a large portion of the city. A community park should include, but not be limited to, the facilities that are typically found at neighborhood and mini parks as well as specialized facilities such as amphitheaters and skate parks. Compact Office Format Urban office buildings typically occupy sites ranging from 20,000 to 60,000 square feet that can be serviced from alleys, and where parking is typically provided underground, off the alley, or off-site (American Planning Association 2006). Complete Streets Complete streets provide a balanced, multimodal transportation network that meets the needs of all users of streets, roads, and highways for safe and convenient travel. The users of streets, roads, and highways is defined to mean bicyclists, children, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial goods, pedestrians, users of public transportation, and seniors. Conditional Use Permit The discretionary and conditional review of an activity or function or operation on a site or in a building or facility. Conservation The management of natural resources to prevent waste, destruction or neglect. Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) A multi -disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behavior through environmental design. Cul-de-sac A short street or alley with only a single means of ingress and egress at one end and with a turnaround at its other end. 12 I KEY TERMS + CONCEPTS • • • • Cultural Resources Includes archaeological, paleontological, and historic resources, as well as human remains. : ▪ Cumulative Impact As used in CEQA, the total environmental impact • resulting from the accumulated impacts of individual projects or programs over time. : Decibel (dB) A unit used to express the relative intensity of a sound as it is heard by the human ear. The lowest volume a normal ear can detect under laboratory • conditions is 0 dB, the threshold of human hearing. Since the decibel scale is logarithmic, 10 decibels • are ten times more intense and 20 decibels are a hundred times more intense than 1 db. dBA The "A -weighted" scale for measuring sound in ; decibels, which weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies in order to simulate human hearing. Every increase of 10 dBA doubles the perceived loudness even though the noise is actually ten times more intense. Dedication : The turning over by an owner or developer of : private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency : having jurisdiction over the public function for : which it will be used. Dedications for roads, parks, school sites or other public uses are often required by a city or county as conditions for approval of a ; development. (See "in -lieu fee") Density : The expected amount of develop▪ ment or people : per area, often expressed as units or people per : acre. (See also "Density, residential" and "Floor : Area Ratio") ▪ Density, Residential (du/acre) : The number of permanent residential dwelling : units (d.u.) per acre of land. Densities specified : in the General Plan are expressed in dwelling : units per net acreage (du/acre), (minus any land : dedications) and not per gross acre. (See "Acres") ▪ Development On land, in or under water, the placement or erection of any solid material or structure; discharge or disposal of any dredged material or of any gaseous, liquid, solid, or thermal waste; grading, removing, dredging, mining, or extraction of any materials; change in the density or intensity of use of land, including, but not limited to, subdivision pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act (commencing with Section 66410 of the Government Code), and any other division of land, including lot splits, except where the land division is brought about in connection with the purchase of such land by a public agency for public recreational use; change in the intensity of use of water, or of access thereto; construction, reconstruction, demolition, or alteration of the size of any structure, including any facility of any private, public, or municipal utility. Development Review; Design Review The comprehensive evaluation of a development and its impact on neighboring properties and the community as a whole, from the standpoint of site and landscape design, architecture, materials, colors, lighting and signs, in accordance with a set of adopted criteria and standards. Development Review usually refers to a system established in the Municipal Code, whereby projects are reviewed against certain standards and criteria by a specially established design review board or other body such as the Planning Commission. Disabled Persons determined to have a physical impairment or mental disorder, which is expected to be of long, continued or indefinite duration and is of such a nature that the person's ability to live independently could be improved by more suitable housing conditions. Duplex A free-standing house divided into two separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Dwelling Unit (d.u.) A building or portion of a building designed for residential purposes, including one -family, two- family and multiple dwellings, but shall not include hotels, boarding and lodging houses. Ecosystem An interacting system formed by a biotic community and its physical environment. PLAN HERMOSA I13 Educational institution Elementary, junior high, high schools, colleges or universities or other schools giving general academic instruction in the several branches of learning and study required to be taught and equivalent to the standards prescribed by the Education Code of the State of California or California Board of Education, including learning skills integrated with said education. Includes schools, academies institutes, or tutoring services which operate for a profit. Effluent • Liquid or partially solid waste such as is found in • sewer systems or discharged from factories. : Environmental Impact Report (EIR) A report required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area, determines what effects or impacts will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action, and identifies alternatives or other measures to avoid or reduce those impacts. (See "California Environmental Quality Act.") Entryway Entrance to an urban area, or to an important part of a city, along a major roadway. It can also be a gateway or a point along a roadway at which a motorist or cyclist gains a sense of having left the environs and of having entered the city. Electric Vehicle (EV) An electric vehicle is an alternative fuel automobile that uses electric motors and motor controllers for propulsion, in place of more common propulsion methods such as the internal combustion engine. Family -Friendly : A place, product, or service that is considered to : be suitable for people of all ages. • Fault : A fracture in the earth's crust that forms a : boundary between rock masses that have shifted. : ▪ Flooding 100 -year flood zone - The magnitude of a flood • ▪ expected to occur on the average every 100 • years, based on historical data. The 100 -year flood has a 1/100, or one percent, chance of occurring • ▪ in any given year. Floodplain - The relatively level land area on either side of the banks of a stream regularly subject to flooding. Floodway- The part of the floodplain capable of conveying the 100 -year flood with no more than a one -foot rise in water. The floodway includes the river channel itself and adjacent land areas. Floor Area Ratio (FAR) The size of a building in square feet (gross floor area) divided by net land area, expressed as a decimal number. For example, a 60,000 square foot building on a 120,000 square -foot parcel would have a floor area ratio of 0.50. The FAR is used in calculating the building intensity of non- residential development. General Plan A compendium of City goals, policies, and actions regarding long-term development, in the form of maps and accompanying text. The General Plan is a legal document required of each local agency by the State of California Government Code Section 65301 and adopted by the City Council. In California, the General Plan has seven mandatory elements (Circulation, Conservation, Housing, Land Use, Noise, Open Space and Public Safety) and may include any number of optional elements the City deems important. Goal - A description of the general desired results that Hermosa Beach seeks to create through the implementation of the General Plan. Goals are included in each element and may include the key physical or community characteristics that the City and its residents wish to maintain or develop. Policy - A specific statement of principle or of guiding actions that implies clear commitment, but is not mandatory. A general direction that a governmental agency sets to follow, in order to meet its goals and objectives before undertaking an implementing action or program. Implementation Action - An implementation action is a program, implementation measure, procedure or technique intended to help achieve a specified objective. Graywater The less contaminated portion of domestic wastewater, including wash water from clothes washers and laundry tubs. 14 I KEY TERMS + CONCEPTS • • • • • Greenhouse Effect A term used to describe the warming of the Earth's atmosphere due to accumulated carbon dioxide and other gases in the upper atmosphere. These gases absorb energy radiated from the Earth's surface, "trapping" it in the same manner as glass in a greenhouse traps heat. Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Atmospheric gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation produced by solar warming of the Earth's surface. Groundwater Water that exists beneath the earth's surface, typically found between saturated soils and rock, and is used to supply wells and springs. Habitat The physical location or type of environment in which an organism or biological population lives or occurs. Household All persons occupying a single dwelling unit. Impact Fee A fee charged to a developer by the City according to the proposed development project, typically by number of units, square footage or acreage. The fee is often used to offset costs incurred by the municipality for services and infrastructure such as schools, roads, police and fire services, and parks. Impervious Surface Surface through which water cannot penetrate, such as a roof, road, sidewalk, and paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface increases with development and establishes the need for drainage facilities to carry the increased runoff. Infill Development Development that occurs on underutilized or vacant land within areas that are already largely developed. In -lieu fee Cash payments that may be required of an owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land for public use and referred to as in -lieu fees or in -lieu contributions. (See "dedication") Land Use The occupation or utilization of an area of land for any human activity or any purpose. Land Use Designation One particular category in a classification series of appropriate use of properties established by the General Plan Land Use Element. Land Use Plan The relevant portions of a local government's general plan, or local coastal element which are sufficiently detailed to indicate the kinds, location, and intensity of land uses, the applicable resource protection and development policies and, where necessary, a listing of implementing actions. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) A voluntary, consensus -based national standard for developing and rating high-performance, sustainable "green" buildings. LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals, such as water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. Level of Service (Traffic) A scale that measures the amount of traffic that a roadway or intersection can accommodate, based on such factors as maneuverability, driver dissatisfaction and delay. LOS A - A relatively free flow of traffic, with little or no limitation on vehicle movement or speed. LOS B - Describes a steady flow of traffic, with only slight delays in vehicle movement and speed. All queues clear in a single signal cycle. LOS C - Denotes a reasonably steady, high-volume flow of traffic, with some limitations on movement and speed, and occasional backups on critical approaches. LOS D - Designates the level where traffic nears an unstable flow. Intersections still function, but short queues develop and cars may have to wait through one signal cycle during short peaks. LOS E - Represents traffic characterized by slow movement and frequent (although momentary) stoppages. This type of congestion is considered severe, but is not uncommon at peak traffic hours, with stopping, long-standing queues and blocked intersections. PLAN HERMOSA 1 15 LOS F - Describes unsatisfactory stop -and -go traffic characterized by "traffic jams" and stoppages of long duration. Vehicles at signalized intersections usually have to wait through one or more signal changes, and "upstream" intersections may be blocked by the long queues. Living Streets Living streets promote the health and mobility of all Hermosa Beach citizens and visitors by providing high quality pedestrian, bicycling, and transit access to destinations throughout the City. Local Coastal Program (LCP) a local government's (a) land use plans, (b) zoning ordinances, (c) zoning district maps, and (d) within sensitive coastal resources areas, other implementing actions, which, when taken together, meet the requirements of, and implement the provisions and policies of, this division at the local level. Low Impact Development Building or landscape features designed to retain or filter stormwater runoff. Mitigation Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. Mixed Use Any mixture of land uses on a single parcel, including mixtures of residences with commercial, offices with retail, or visitor accommodation with offices and retail. As distinguished from a single use land use designation or zone, mixed use refers to an authorized variety of uses for buildings and structures in a particular area. Mix of Uses Any mixture of uses, such as retail, office, residential or general commercial in close proximity spread over a small area. Mobile Home A structure, transportable in one or more sections, built on a permanent chassis and designed for use as a single-family dwelling and is tied down (a) to a permanent foundation on a lot owned or leased by the homeowner or (b) is set on piers, with wheels removed and skirted, in a mobile home park. Mobile Home Park A parcel of land under one ownership that has been planned and improved for the placement of two or more mobile homes for rental purposes for nontransient use. National Incident Management System (NIMS) The National Incident Management System is a systematic, proactive approach to guide departments and agencies at all levels of government, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector to work together seamlessly and manage incidents involving all threats and hazards—regardless of cause, size, location, or complexity—in order to reduce loss of life, property and harm to the environment. Natural Habitat Area An area that sustains animal and vegetative biotic resources that has not been improved or disturbed. Natural habitat areas can also be areas that were previously "disturbed" and have been reclaimed or rehabilitated. Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Small vehicles commonly used for neighborhood commuting, light hauling, and delivery. Their use is limited to areas with 35 mph speed limits or for off- road service in large campus settings. Neighborhood Park Medium sized park, usually 5 to 15 acres, that provide basic recreational activities for one or more neighborhoods within a 1/2 to 3/4 mile radius. Noise Contour A line connecting points of equal noise level as measured on the same scale. Noise levels greater than the 60 Ldn contour (measured in dBA) require noise attenuation in residential development. Non -Conforming A use or structure that was valid when brought into existence, but no longer permitted by later regulation. "Non -conforming" is a generic term and includes: (1) structures (because their size, type of construction, location on land, or proximity to other structures is no longer permitted); (2) non -conforming use of a conforming building; (3) non -conforming use of a non -conforming building; and (4) non- conforming use of land. Any use lawfully existing on any piece of property that 16 I KEY TERMS + CONCEPTS • • • is inconsistent with a new or amended General Plan, and that in turn is a violation of a zoning ordinance amendment subsequently adopted in conformance with the General Plan, will be a non- conforming use. Typically, non -conforming uses are permitted to continue for a designated period of time, subject to certain restrictions. Parcel A lot, or contiguous group of lots, in single ownership or under single control, usually considered a unit for purposes of development. Parkette Small sized park, less than 1 acre, that provides recreation activities for a specific neighborhood within a 1/4 mile radius. Passive Solar System A system that uses direct heat transfer from the thermal mass instead of mechanical power to distribute collected heat. Passive systems rely on building design and materials to collect and store heat and to create natural ventilation for cooling. Pedestrian -Oriented Design An approach to site and neighborhood design intended to facilitate movement on foot in an area, as opposed to design that primarily serves and encourages automobile movement. Examples of pedestrian -oriented design include pathways following the most direct route from sidewalk to front door, continuous building streetwalls with shop windows, outdoor cafes, street trees and benches. Per Capita A measure for each person; in relation to people taken individually. Permit Discretionary - A discretionary action is a permit, subdivision, permit modification, or subdivision modification granted following determinations that require the exercise of judgment and deliberation, as opposed to merely determining that the request complies with a set of standards. Ministerial - A ministerial decision involves only the use of fixed standards or objective measurements, and the public official cannot use personal, subjective judgment in deciding whether or how the project should be carried out. Public Facility A use operated or used by a public body or public utility in connection with any of the following services: water, waste water management, public education, parks and recreation, fire and police protection, solid waste management, transportation, or utilities. Public View A public view is a location on public property or a public right of way from which a regionally important feature can be seen and are defined as: Prominent Public View - A specific location and angle on publich property or right of way from which a regionally important feature can be seen. Uninterrupted Viewing Area - An area in which there are an infinite number of viewpoints with views that are uninterrupted, expansive, or greater than 180 degrees. Resilience Resilient communities ensure that all residents are prepared and ready to withstand social or environmental challenges. Seniors Persons 65 years of age or older. Sensitive Receptors Uses sensitive to noise and other environmental impacts such as residential areas, hospitals, convalescent homes and facilities, and schools. Specific Plan Under Article 8 of the Government Code (Section 65450 et seq), a legal tool for detailed design and implementation of a defined portion of the area covered by a General Plan. A specific plan may include all detailed regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation which may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any General Plan element(s). Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) The Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) is the cornerstone of California's emergency response system and the fundamental structure for the response phase of emergency management. The system unifies all elements of California's emergency management community into a single integrated system and standardizes key elements. PLAN HERMOSA I 17 Steep Slope An area with a greater than 5 percent slope. Street Classifications Local Street - Local streets are one lane in each direction and have right of ways of 40 feet or less. Local streets also provide direct access to properties and generally carry the lowest traffic volumes. Minor Arterial Street - Minor arterials or collectors are roadways that connect local streets to "arterials," usually provide two travel lanes for automobiles, and may also have bicycle lanes. The term collector street may be used interchangably with minor arterial. Major Arterial Street - Major thoroughfares that carry large volumes of traffic at relatively high speeds. Arterials are designed to facilitate two or more lanes of moving vehicles in each direction and rarely contain on -street parking. Sustainability The pursuit of sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. Transparency In the context of governance, transparency is a principle that allows those affected by decisions to be informed not only about the outcomes of a decision, but also the mechanisms and processes in which decisions are made. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Compliance A numerical target for a specific pollutant in a specific body of water. Townhouse/Townhome A series of residences, often two to three stories in height, that are connected side by side in a row with each having a separate street -level entrance. Traffic Calming Measures designed to encourage pedestrian use while balancing the movement of vehicles including: narrow lane widths, tight turning radii, sidewalk bulbouts, textured paving at intersections, parkways between sidewalks and streets. Triplex A free-standing house divided into three separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Universal Design Universial design refers to broad-spectrum ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to older people, people without disabilities, and people with disabilities. Use The purpose for which a lot or structure is or may be leased, occupied, maintained, arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered and/or enlarged in accordance with the City zoning ordinance and General Plan land use designations. Utility Corridor Rights-of-way or easements for utility lines on either publicly or privately owned property. Wastewater Water that has already been used for washing, flushing, or in a manufacturing process, and therefore contains waste products such as sewage or chemical by-products. Wetland An area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation. Zoning The division of a city by ordinance or other legislative regulation into districts or zones, which specify allowable uses for real property and size restrictions for buildings constructed in these areas; a program that implements the land use policies of the General Plan. Zoning District A designated area of the City for which prescribed land use requirements and building and development standards are or will be established. 18 I KEY TERMS + CONCEPTS • • Role of the Plan PLAN Hermosa, the General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan (LUP) for Hermosa Beach, provides a future vision, policies, and proposed actions to guide residents, decision -makers, City staff, project developers, ▪ and businesses in Hermosa Beach. For City staff, PLAN Hermosa is a guide to evaluate projects, structure : City programs, and decide whether to pursue new opportunities. City officials will use the Plan as : the basis for decision-making and to guide the development of new policies, ordinances, programs, initiatives and capital expenditures. : PLAN Hermosa will set the city on a trajectory for a more sustainable future. To do so, this Plan informs • and is implemented by the City's various ordinances, specific plans, programs, and ongoing activities. It : sets the City's overall policies and priorities for how to use and manage its physical, social, and economic : resources. This Plan has been developed through an extensive public involvement process and thorough : analysis and review by the community, boards and commissions, City staff, and elected officials. It : documents a shared vision for the future and sets the policies and programs to achieve that vision for the : city. : The Plan also informs community members of the ground rules that guide physical and social : development within our community. Hermosa Beach residents will utilize the Plan to understand the • predominant community consensus regarding how, when, and where the city should develop and : change as a place to live, work, and invest. Current and potential business owners can utilize the Plan : to understand economic development priorities and available resources, while developers use it to understand the city's development needs, preferences, and desired physical parameters. PLAN HERMOSA 19 Contents fb PLAN Hermosa has been divided into seven elements. State law prescribes the required topics to be covered in this Plan. The certified Housing Element will not be amended as part of this effort as it was recently certified for the period covering 2013-2021. The topics covered by each element and the integration of Coastal Land Use Plan topics are briefly described below. Community Governance The Community Governance Element sets forth the City's legal authority to adopt and implement the goals, policies, and actions of PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, this element describes the associated leadership, decision-making process, development requirements, and regional coordination necessary to achieve the goals, policies, and actions. Land Use + Design Land Use and Design are the cornerstone of PLAN Hermosa and the City's fundamental guide to the evolution of the urban form and land use patterns in Hermosa Beach. The Land Use and Design Element goals, policies, and actions provide a blueprint for the physical development of the community by identifying the general location, distribution, and intensity of various residential, commercial, industrial and institutional uses in Hermosa Beach. Mobility The Mobility Element is intended to facilitate mobility of people and goods throughout Hermosa Beach by a variety of modes, with balanced emphasis on automobiles, bicycles, pedestrians, and alternative fuel vehicles. This element identifies the general location and extent of major thoroughfares, transportation routes, parking facilities, and alternative transportation facilities needed to support a multimodal transportation system. Sustainability + Conservation The Sustainability and Conservation Element addresses the use and preservation of natural resources to improve the environmental quality of Hermosa Beach. This element includes goals, policies, and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; promote improved air quality; improve water quality; and promote green building. Parks + Open Space The Parks and Open Space Element includes goals, policies, and actions that provide for coastal access and the provision of community facilities, parks, and recreation opportunities. This element includes coastal policies and actions for beach programming, special events, and the preservation of natural habitat and wildlife. Public Safety The Public Safety Element establishes goals, policies, and actions that protect the community from risk associated with natural hazards. The element places specific focus on hazards that could be made more severe with anticipated impacts of climate change. This element also incorporates the Noise Element, required by State Law, addressing major noise sources, existing and future noise levels, and the potential noise exposure to sensitive populations. Infrastructure The Infrastructure Element provides goals, policies, and actions to maintain and improve infrastructure systems, including the water supply system, sewer system, storm drain system, roads, and telecommunications and utilities. This element recommends new development approaches that incorporate low -impact development (LID) standards to manage stormwater runoff. Coastal Land Use Plan Topics required to comply with the California Coastal Act are integrated throughout the document. The icon to the right serves to identify those topics and policies that specifically meet the intent of the Coastal Act. IUI 1•■ Ill I•■ 111.21:0. Prir:4 20 I INTRODUCTION • • Context The regional setting and colorful history of Hermosa Beach help tell the story of the community today and set the stage for the future of Hermosa Beach. Regional Setting Hermosa Beach is located along the southern end of the Santa Monica Bay in Los Angeles County. Regional topographic features including the Santa Monica Bay and Mountains and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, serve as the backdrop to Hermosa Beach. The Pacific Ocean serves as the western city boundary, while the city is bordered by Manhattan Beach to the north, and Redondo Beach to the south and east. Hermosa Beach is located approximately 17 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles and 14 miles northwest of Long Beach. The City's regional location is depicted in Figure 0.1. Figure 0.1 Regional Setting santa monica los angeles manhattan beach '. . ;city of hermosa beach redondoach Y be Local Setting The city limits for Hermosa Beach encompass a relatively small land area, approximately 1.4 square miles. Hermosa Beach includes nearly two miles of shoreline and varies in width between one-half mile and approximately one mile inland. Approximately 43% of the total land area in Hermosa Beach is located within the Coastal Zone, the boundaries of which are defined by the Coastal Act. The coastal zone in Hermosa Beach spans the entire length of the city from north to south, and extends from the mean high tide line inland to Ardmore Avenue with two exclusions: the area from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive between Longfellow Avenue and 31st Place; and the area east of Park Avenue or Loma Drive between 25th Street and 16th Street. The boundaries of the City and Coastal Zone are depicted in Figure 0.2. Figure 0.2 Local Setting PLAN HERMOSA I 21 Hermosa Beach History Rancho and Early Development Hermosa Beach and its immediate surrounding communities are situated on land that once constituted part of Rancho Sausal Redondo. During the late 19th Century, the rancho grew barley and other grains to graze sheep, horses and cattle. In 1900, a tract of 1,500 acres was purchased for $35 per acre, and this small strip of beach front property became Hermosa Beach. By 1901 the first tract of Hermosa Beach was subdivided between the boardwalk and Hermosa Avenue, with the land between Hermosa Avenue and Summit Avenue (later named Monterey Boulevard) subdivided later that same year. The first pier was built in 1904, made of all wood and extending approximately 500 feet into the ocean. By 1910, Hermosa Beach was a stop on the Pacific Electric Railway, which included stops in Santa Monica, Venice, and Redondo. The new rail line brought a slew of tourists to the area, promoting Hermosa Beach as a recreational getaway. 22 INTRODUCTION Aerial view of Hermosa Beach circa 1925. Hermosa Beach Cityhood In January of 1907 the small beach community became the 19th incorporated city in Los Angeles County. To attract new residents and investors, the City spent thousands of dollars on improvements to its streets and lighting, participating in a "Good Roads Campaign," providing well -paved boulevards connecting the city to the region. In 1913, plans were approved to develop a permanent concrete boardwalk, known today as The Strand, with matching ornamental lighting. By the mid -1920s most of the coastal tracts had been subdivided for commercial or residential use. The dominant residential building type throughout Hermosa Beach during this era was the vernacular beach cottage, popular among most Southern California beach communities. In many cases these beach cottages contained elements of the popular Craftsman style. The Spanish Colonial Revival, Shingle, Arts and Crafts, and Period Revival styles were also prevalent among residences constructed during this time. • • :\ 4: Built in 1923, the Surf and Sand Club, later the Biltmore Hotel was an iconic site along the Hermosa Beach coastline until 1969. Hermosa Beach City Hall was dedicated in January 1965. Greg Noll Surfboards on Pacific Coast Highway In 1923 the Surf and Sand Club announced plans for a clubhouse located on The Strand between 14th and 15th streets. The elaborate clubhouse attracted many new members to the club, with an artificially heated swimming pool, dressing rooms and lockers, ballroom, and 124 sleeping rooms with their own bathrooms. In the 1930s the building was taken over by hotel interests, becoming the Hermosa Biltmore Hotel. The iconic structure changed hands and roles a number of times before being torn down in 1969. Post -World War II Growth Following World War II, Southern California experienced a large population boom. Hermosa Beach experienced a similar boom, with the number of residents growing from 7,196 in 1940 to 16,115 by 1960. This resulted in the construction of many homes in the formerly rural area east of Camino Real (Pacific Coast Highway) with larger lots on Prospect Avenue compared to those along the coast. The Civic Center complex was designed by Savo Stoshitch between 1961 and 1965, and includes buildings for City Hall, Public Library, Police Station and Fire Station. During the 1960s, the Santa Fe Railroad stopped using the Hermosa to Redondo line and removed the train tracks. The right-of-way was later protected from development by voter referendum and purchased by the City to create the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt during the late 1980s. Beach Culture Throughout the city's history, the beach has been an integral part of local culture with an abundance of seaside activities. Surfing and beach volleyball are two activities that are firmly integrated into the city's history and culture. Hermosa Beach has been home to many surfing professionals over the years and has hosted events promoting surfing, such as Hermosa Beach Surfing Club's Annual Dance. Known as the mecca of surfboard shaping, Hermosa Beach is known for some of the earliest surfboard manufacturing, with several surfboard shapers still operating today. An iconic part of Southern California beach culture, volleyball in Hermosa Beach dates back as far as 1938 when the Los Angeles Times reported on "fierce volleyball games" in Hermosa Beach. Organized leagues and tournaments have and continue to serve as an important recreational outlet in Hermosa Beach. PLAN HERMOSA I23 Hermosa Beach in 2017 demographics. 90% of Hermosa Beach employees live outside of the city 95% of employed Hermosa Beach residents leave the city for work ......... ff4ffff}t 1 1,378 students enrolled in HBCSD schools 2% 5% 5% 4% 23% 15% 9616 people live in • Hermosa Beach 41% of the population is be- tween the ages of 25 and 44 5% 5% 6% 2% J�66 �q,a1A,cy: c`1, 0:5 ,.5�p,A ��SA,13 bbAb(DiA1�A (654 10,038 housing units 51% 47% 2% single- multi- mobile family family home economy. per capita annual retail sales is approximately $14,882 Fiesta Hermosa attracts up to 150,000 visitors over the course of a 3 -day weekend median home values have increased 2.3% from 2016 natural environment. 0 26% 50% The waste diversion rate increased from 26% to over 50% invested by Hermosa Beach residents and businesses to install solar photovoltaic systems 54% of greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation sources • • • • • • • • > 1 mi 1-3 mi 3-10 mi • transportation. 1,000 bikes per hour can commonly be found on The Strand on weekends • 66% of weekend visitors travel 10 miles or less to • get to Hermosa Beach 50,000 vehicles make their way through Hermosa Beach on Pacific Coast Highway everyday Sources: California Department of Finance, California Department of Transportation, Hermosa Beach City School District, City of Hermosa Beach, U.S. Census Bureau, zillow.com; 2017. 24 I INTRODUCTION • Setting the Stage for a Sustainable Future While Hermosa Beach and its residents have always taken pride in maintaining a sustainable and healthy environment, much has happened in the last five years to catalyze the community's interest in clarifying its vision for a more sustainable future and the path forward. Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan In 2011, the City Council adopted the Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan. The Sustainability Plan identifies local actions the City and people of Hermosa Beach can take to maintain a high quality of life without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The Sustainability Plan's primary purpose is to provide a foundation for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, helping to chart the City's path to a low -carbon future. The Sustainability Plan also identifies actions the City can take to protect the marine environment, improve active transportation options and reduce automobile dependency, protect water resources, improve the performance of buildings, and reduce solid waste. Strategic Growth Council Grant The City last comprehensively updated the General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan in the early 1980s. While conditions and issues affecting the City have since changed and the community's vision has evolved, the policies and action plans to guide the City's growth and development have not been comprehensively updated to account for a growing interest and need to incorporate sustainability principles into the City's policies and action plans. The City's commitment to sustainability was recognized by the California Strategic Growth Council, which has a mission to support community planning efforts organized around sustainability. This recognition was made clear in 2013 by the award of a substantial planning grant which made possible the update of the PLAN HERMOSA 25 General Plan. Through the grant procurement effort, the City stated 11 program initiatives that the General Plan Update would investigate. These various program initiatives address specific attributes of a sustainable community and are addressed throughout this Plan: • Improve Air Quality and Water Quality • Strengthen the Economy • Promote Infill and Compact Development • Improve Infrastructure Systems • Reduce Automobile Usage and Fuel Consumption • Promote Equity • Promote Water Conservation • Increase Affordable Housing • Promote Energy Efficiency and Conservation • Promote Public Health • Revitalize Urban and Community Centers In early 2014, Hermosa Beach was also awarded a grant by the California Coastal Commission to support the comprehensive Coastal Land Use Plan update. These grants were awarded based on the City's priority objective to transform these plans into the City's integrated and comprehensive "Blueprint for Sustainability and a Low Carbon Future". Community Dialogue + Decision -Making Tool The community's desire to advance sustainability, enhance economic vitality, and preserve the eclectic beach character, was further reinforced through the Community Dialogue process in 2013 and 2014. The community engaged in setting the vision and defining the unique qualities for Hermosa Beach. The Community Dialogue process culminated in the creation of a Decision -Making tool that aims to: 1. Enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of our government. 2. Identify and optimize opportunities for residents and businesses to improve our quality of life in Hermosa Beach. 3. Create a culture of innovation, so that our challenges become our opportunities and our opportunities enhance our community brand. 4. Ensure the values and priorities of all residents and business owners are considered during the analysis and deliberation of actions. 5. Deliver transparency to the decision-making process so that the public can make informed decisions. Thus, PLAN Hermosa was developed under a broad sustainability framework that aims to: • Link environmental performance with economic vitality; • Enhance coastal protection and sea level rise best practices; • Leverage collaborative partnerships; and • Advance implementation of sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction legislation. Once adopted by the City Council, PLAN Hermosa will form the City's overarching framework for decision- making, with subsequent plans, programs, and activities designed to carry out the community's vision, goals and policies. The updated Plan will guide how the City should develop and change, and where funds and resources for infrastructure, services and programs should be directed in a manner that most effectively achieves the community vision. 26 1 INTRODUCTION � Sustainability in Hermosa Beach • s Fundamentally, sustainability means the ability or characteristic of persisting over time. A sustainable community, then, is a community that is everlasting. This simple concept is the essence of our community's approach to sustainability. To be everlasting, we need a safe and healthy environment. Everything that we need for our survival and well being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. Without the resources and services provided by the environment, such as clean air, water, and food, our community cannot thrive. This is especially important in Hermosa Beach, as the presence of a beautiful and clean ocean environment creates so much of the essence of our town. To be everlasting, we need a high quality of life. It is through a high quality of life that our community members can become their best selves. It is through a high quality of life that we can attract and retain the best and brightest and provide opportunities to participate in the community and contribute to our world. To be everlasting, we need a healthy, stable economy. It is through a healthy economy that we are able to have jobs and businesses that provide the wherewithal to provide food, shelter, and education for our families. It is also through a healthy economy that we are able to create a fiscally sound town where we are able to transform and apply capital for the restoration, preservation and protection of our natural environment. Finally, to be everlasting, our community needs to be a catalyst for innovation. We live in an ever changing world. The notion of sustainability should not imply that we can freeze ourselves in time. In the face of constant change, we must continue to embrace our long-standing culture of creativity and innovation. By fostering innovation, we can ensure that we will remain relevant and competitive leaders. This notion of sustainability is not a generic definition of sustainability pulled from a book. This is our unique definition of sustainability and arises from our community values - values that have been consistently reiterated in multiple community forums over the years. This community-based definition of sustainability has formed the development of this Plan. The four aspects of sustainability described are crosscutting and thus serve as the organizing framework of the Guiding Principles: demonstrate our environmental leadership, retain our high quality of life, contribute to our economic and fiscal sustainability, and be a catalyst for innovation. Every aspect of our town and community life is influenced by these aspects of sustainability. They are intertwined threads of the one fabric that comprises Hermosa Beach and they cannot be addressed independently. Similarly, each of the elements of this Plan help achieve the realization of a sustainable, everlasting Hermosa in specific ways. PLAN HERMOSA I 27 Connecting the Dots Each element in this Plan helps contribute to a more sustainable, everlasting future in its own way. The following diagram summarizes how these elements support a sustainable community. Community Governance \ The Community Governance Element sets forth the City's legal authority to adopt and implement the goals, policies, and actions of PLAN Hermosa. Additionally, this element describes the associated leadership, decision-making process, development requirements, and regional coordination necessary to achieve the goals, policies and actions. While the Community Governance topics are Tess directly associated with the community's overall sustainability, the goals, topics, and actions of this element are critical for achieving success. It will be through this element that much of the Plan is put into action. Without action, we will not have success. Additionally, this element emphasizes transparency in government and decision-making. Transparent governance leads to better decisions and more stability. This improved stability, in turn, leads to a more dependable regulatory environment and an improved business climate. Land Use + Design Land use and design are the cornerstone of PLAN Hermosa and the City's fundamental guide for the urban form. The goals, policies, and actions of this element provide a blueprint for the physical development of the community by identifying the location, distribution, and intensity of various uses in Hermosa Beach. The decisions we make about how our buildings are designed and built directly affects sustainability. For example, how buildings are placed on lots and how they relate to the street can influence transportation choices, economic activity, and public safety. How a building is sited and designed relative to the sun can affect building energy use by as much as 30%. The amount of open space provided affects stormwater runoff and the urban heat island. Density, intensity, and mix of uses affect the number and length of trips taken and the transportation mode chosen for each trip. The uses in town influence whether residents have to drive out of town for work, goods, or services. The land use decisions we make can even influence the health of our community, through closer proximity to services, increased availability of healthy food, and enhanced access to parks or schools, it can become easier to choose healthier options. 28 1 INTRODUCTION Mobility The Mobility Element is intended to facilitate mobility of people and goods throughout Hermosa Beach by a variety of modes, with balanced emphasis on automobiles, transit, pedestrians, bicycles, and alternative fuel vehicles. How people get around town has broad implications for sustainability. Transportation patterns affect how much fuel is used in Hermosa Beach, the quantity of greenhouse gases, and local air quality as the majority of our trips are conducted by fossil fuel -burning automobiles. The choices we make about our transportation system greatly affect whether fuel use increases or decreases with time, whether our vehicle fleet becomes more efficient, and even whether we can legitimately choose to walk, bike, or use transit instead of driving a car. Each of these outcomes has secondary effects as well. Less air pollution and greater opportunities to walk or bike lead to health improvements. Improved fleet efficiency leads to Tess money spent on transportation and more individual choice on how to spend that money. This element identifies the location and extent of transportation routes, parking, and alternative mode facilities needed to support a multimodal system. • • Sustainability + Conservation The Sustainability and Conservation Element addresses the use of natural resources to improve the environmental quality of Hermosa Beach. This element includes goals, policies, and actions to improve air quality, increase water conservation, promote green building, and chart a path toward becoming a low carbon community. Carbon levels provide a good indicator for tracking overall sustainability as it uses resource consumption as a proxy. More than any other, this element focuses on limiting pollution and protecting resources through efficiency and conservation. Like many topics in this Plan, carbon -reducing and conservation -oriented practices have secondary community benefits. Using less energy and switching to renewable sources can lead to reduced air pollutants from power plants. Drought tolerant landscapes help to conserve water and reduce runoff. Green building I techniques can improve indoor air quality and rS��"` occupant health. daft emittsa- Parks + Open Space The Parks and Open Space Element includes goals, policies, and actions that provide for coastal access and the provision of community facilities, parks, recreation opportunities, and the preservation of natural habitat and wildlife. Parks and open space play a key role in sustainability. Open space is the primary land use that provides for ecosystem services within a community, providing for opportunities that range from groundwater recharge to food production to carbon sequestration to important wildlife habitat. Increased access to parks, open space, and recreational opportunities can influence positive health outcomes and reduce the prevalence of chronic disease through increased physical " Public Safety The Public Safety Element establishes goals, policies, and actions that protect the community from risk associated with hazards and public safety concerns. The element places specific focus on hazards that could be made more severe with anticipated impacts of climate change. Also incorporated is the Noise Element, addressing major noise sources and potential exposure to sensitive receptors. These topics are critical for quality of life and economic stability. First, a safe, healthy environment is critical for good quality of life. Second, if we do not adequately prepare for hazards and create a resilient community, natural disasters will have a greater effect on our community, leading to increased injuries and property damage. And none of these are good for our economy. Conversely, creating a resilient town will lead to a more stable and healthier economy as avoidance of hazards will minimize the disruption of local commerce. Infrastructure The Infrastructure Element provides goals, policies, and actions to maintain and improve infrastructure systems. Improving the efficiency and quality of the City's infrastructure systems makes them more resilient to changing environmental and economic conditions. Much of the City's infrastructure design and operation will affect the natural environment. Interestingly, the provision of infrastructure, and the relative quality, can also have economic implications. Providing advanced telecommunications and high-speed Internet infrastructure can give the city a competitive edge and attract high-tech businesses; the availability of low-cost renewable energy can benefit everyone in the community and reinvest money in the local economy. activity. Additionally, parks and open space provide valuable recreational amenities and offer important scenic qualities and views, leading to increased property values, increased safety, increased economic activity, and greater sense of community. PLAN HERMOSA I29 PLAN Hermosa Update Process The update process included a series of defined phases or steps to address community needs, goals, and vision in a comprehensive and integrated manner. This process was carried out over the course of approximately four years, kicking off in July 2013 with a community celebration. Existing Conditions + Key Issues The assessment of existing conditions and identification of the key issues facing the community provided an on -the -ground understanding of activities in the city today. By reviewing historic trends and changes or comparing community attributes to other similar communities in the region, a sense of what makes Hermosa Beach unique or different began to emerge. Visioning The visioning process identified principles or priorities for the city's future. Community input on ideas or ideals for the future of Hermosa Beach was solicited through a series of workshops, stakeholder interviews, online surveys, and working group meetings to craft a vision statement and guiding principles. The crafted vision and guiding principles are supported by the existing conditions analysis and form the policy framework and organizational structure of this Plan. Alternatives After the vision and guiding principles were established, a set of land use and transportation scenarios were considered and evaluated. The alternatives analysis looked at the physical and environmental aspects of the proposed changes needed to meet the vision and evaluated whether there were alternative scenarios in which the community vision could be met. Draft Plan The Draft Plan is the resulting collection of policies needed to achieve the community vision. The policies of PLAN Hermosa are a culmination of the existing conditions, vision, and alternatives analysis. The Draft Plan will be evaluated and extensively reviewed before being adopted by the City's decision -makers. Environmental Review PLAN Hermosa is subject to environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to assess whether any adverse environmental impacts may occur through implementation of this Plan. This assessment provides full disclosure to the community and can better inform decision -makers on the potentially adverse environmental impacts of the Plan. Adoption + Implementation The final step of the PLAN Hermosa update is the public hearing and adoption process. Once adopted, the task of implementation begins. The implementation of this Plan will be evaluated against the indicators and decision-making tool to track progress toward the vision. 30 I INTRODUCTION • Community Participation: The future is in YOUR hands Public Involvement Central to the creation of PLAN Hermosa was an extensive public outreach process. The Plan is a policy document, but it is also a community document, describing the community's future vision of the city. Public involvement in this process was critical to understand how residents, business owners, visitors, and community organizations view Hermosa Beach conditions and their vision of Hermosa Beach in the future. During the process of creating PLAN Hermosa, the City engaged several hundred community members through a series of community events, workshops, online surveys, and input during study sessions. The City also used newsletters and mailings, its website, e-mail, and other means to communicate with the community about process. The City received input on topics ranging from required components of the General Plan -land use, transportation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety - to topics identified as important issues for Hermosa Beach such as sustainability and preserving beach town character. Comments received throughout the public outreach process represent the community's beliefs, passions, values, and concerns for the city, and directly formed the policy content of this Plan. Community Working Group In 2013, the City Council directed staff to create and facilitate a community working group to serve as a sounding board in development of this Plan and to help guide the overall engagement process. The working group was comprised of Hermosa Beach residents, and includes diverse representation from many City commissions, businesses, and local organizations and met approximately 15 times over the course of the Plan development. PLAN HERMOSA I 31 Community Events Over the course of three years, an extensive community outreach program was implemented as part of the development of PLAN Hermosa. The major participation opportunities are summarized below. Summer 2013 Community Celebration The City of Hermosa Beach hosted a summer celebration event to encourage the community to think about the future of Hermosa Beach and learn about upcoming planning projects in Hermosa Beach. In addition to kicking off the General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan, at this fair style open house, the community was able to learn about and provide input on the Community Dialogue process, the Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy, and studies related to the recently defeated proposal for oil drilling. Nearly 300 community members visited the Community Center and participated over the course of the day, where activities, discussion, and opportunities to play a role in shaping the future of Hermosa Beach were provided to adults and children. General Plan Kick -Off! Educational Series The Kick -Off! Educational Series included four public meetings at City Hall on key planning areas and issues to be addressed in the General Plan: April 8, 2014 - City Council Briefing April 14, 2014 - Climate Change & Sustainability April 21, 2014 - Economics & Land Use April 30, 2014 - Transportation & Public Health These meetings included detailed presentations on each topic and how they relate to Hermosa Beach as well as public discussion to answer questions and to share information. Stakeholder Interviews Between March and April 2014, interviews with eight key stakeholders were conducted. These interviews included a series of open ended questions to learn more about key issues and existing conditions in Hermosa Beach. Stakeholders included City staff and community leaders. Key Issues Workshop/Study Sessions In order to identify key issues of importance to the city, a community workshop and Joint City Council/Planning Commission meeting were held: May 8, 2014 - Community Workshop: Key Issues At the Key Issues Community Workshop, participants were asked three questions in the context of Small Town Character, Healthy Active Lifestyle, and Economic and Environmental Sustainability: • What do you love about Hermosa Beach? • What are the threats to Hermosa Beach's character and quality of life? • What do you want to change in Hermosa Beach now and in the future? May 20, 2014 - Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting At the Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting, an overview of the process was provided and the results of Key Issues Community Workshop were presented. The Commissioners were then engaged in a discussion on identifying key issues and short-term and long-term challenges. 32 I INTRODUCTION • Key Issues Workshop/Study Sessions A workshop and study session was organized to collect community feedback on a vision statement, guiding principles, and potential solutions to key issues. November 6, 2014 - Vision, Guiding Principles & Way Forward December 16, 2014 - City Council/Planning Commission Study Session: Vision & Guiding Principle The workshop drew approximately 100 participants. The following themes emerged: • Vision Statement: Maintain the existing small beach -town atmosphere. Cultivate local businesses that benefit residents and the local economy. Develop a more sustainable city through a reduced carbon footprint, and increase bicycling and walking. • Guiding Principles: Invest in local infrastructure and amenities. Encourage a diverse, innovative, and resident -serving local business mix. Promote healthy activity and a high quality of life through stewardship and preservation of natural resources. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through proactive, forward -thinking transportation and environmental initiatives. • What are potential solutions: Preserve the eclectic character of the city and create a safe pedestrian/bicycle-friendly city. Invest in schools, energy- efficient infrastructure, the arts, and green and local businesses. Promote sustainability by prioritizing waste reduction and maintaining a clean, healthy beach environment. r°`" Neighborhood & District Walking Tours, March 28, 2015 On March 28 the City sponsored Community Walking Tours to provide education and receive feedback on land use and circulation. The city was broken down into a variety of districts. Information was provided as a basis for input on the look and feel of each of these areas. The walking tours drew approximately 40 participants throughout the day, with an additional 15-20 people stopping by the Community Center to provide input via the poster display. A short survey was taken at the end to identify top priorities for different districts. Key themes emerged as follows: • Preservation of Hermosa Beach character - Participants are keen to maintain their existing community character, views, amenities and quality of life. • Support for pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements - Participants would like to see improved pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure throughout the city. • Lack of interest in development higher than two stories - Participants feel that higher density development negatively impacts community character and potentially views. • Consideration for the environment - Participants want to see improvements that support a green and healthy lifestyle. Joint City Council/Planning Commission Study Session, May 11, 2015 On May 11th, City Council and Planning Commission held a joint study session to review and discuss potential policy direction on land use and transportation options. This direction formed the policy framework for the updated General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan. PLAN HERMOSA I 33 Joint City Council/Planning Commission Study Session, July 16, 2015 On July 16, City Council and Planning Commission held a joint study session to review and discuss the preferred policy direction on land use and transportation options. PLAN Hermosa focuses most prominently on the physical aspects of the city, and land use and transportation are essential components. This direction assisted the next step, creating the policy framework for the updated General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan, and establishing the preferred policy direction to be evaluated in the Environmental Impact Report. Mapping activity during youth chorrette. Youth Charrette: This is MY City Camp On August 18, 2015, the City held a youth charrette to gather information from children living in Hermosa Beach. As a group, they described what Hermosa Beach is like today, and discussed what the City should look like in the future. The participants expressed their ideas through a mapping exercise and by filling out a short questionnaire. This youth workshop helped identify areas in Hermosa Beach that could be enhanced to better accommodate the youth population, encouraging them to live in the city through adulthood. • • PLAN Hermosa Draft Study Sessions, January 2016 Following release of the Public Review Draft of PLAN Hermosa, Study Sessions were held with each of the City's advisory commissions and the City Council. The meetings were held as an opportunity to introduce the document to the commissions in advance of upcoming meetings in which their formal input was provided on the topics relevant to the commissions. • January 25, 2016 - Joint Commissions Study Session • January 26, 2016 - City Council Study Session Community Open House + Walking Tours, February 2016 The City held an open house and walking tours on February 5-6, 2016 to solicit input from the community on the 2015 Draft of PLAN Hermosa and in particular some of the key policy topics. There were a total of five different walking tours and speakers on each tour with subject matter expertise on the different topics: • • Sustainability + Mobility Handout Small Beach Town Character The Beach + Coastal Access Innovation + Opportunity Areas Community Spaces + Parks Commission Review of 2015 Draft, March - June 2016 Following the public comment and input period on the 2015 Draft of PLAN Hermosa, the Planning Commission, Public Works Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission held public meetings to review the Draft of PLAN Hermosa between March 2016 and June 2016 on the following dates: • March 15, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • March 28, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • April 5, 2016 - Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting (Parks + Open Space Element) • April 18, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Land Use + Design Element) • April 19, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Mobility Element) • April 25, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Mobility Element) • May 9, 2016 - EPAC Meeting (Public Safety Element) • May 16, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Sustainability + Conservation) • May 18, 2016 - Public Works Commission Meeting (Mobility Element) • June 15, 2016 - Public Works Commission Meeting (Infrastructure, Public Safety Elements) • June 20, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Governance, Parks + Open Space, Infrastructure Elements) • June 21, 2016 - Planning Commission Study Session (Public Safety Element) PLAN HERMOSA I 35 Environmental Review Meeting and Public Comment Period The Draft Environmental Impact Report for PLAN Hermosa was released on October 26, 2016 for a 72 - day review period. During the review period, the community had opportunities review the document and to provide written feedback or verbal feedback at the Planning Commission Study Session held on November 21, 2016. Following the public comment period on the Draft EIR, the City catalogued and responded to all comments submitted that were related to the adequacy of the environmental analysis and subsequently prepared the Final Environmental Impact Report, which includes the Response to Comments, a summary of the changes from the Draft EIR, the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations. The Final EIR was released on February 9, 2017. Planning Commission Public Hearings, February and March 2017 In February and March of 2017, the Planning Commission held Public Hearings to review PLAN Hermosa, the Implementation Actions, and the Associated Draft and Final Environmental Documents. • February 22, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 1 • February 23, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 2 • February 27, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 3 • March 13, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 4 • March 21, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 5 • March 27, 2017 - Planning Commission Public Hearing Part 6 The changes the Planning Commission recommended during these meetings were incorporated into the 2017 Planning Commission Recommended Draft of PLAN Hermosa which was presented to the City Council for review. City Council Study Sessions and Public Hearings, April - August 2017 In April 2017, the City Council began their review of PLAN Hermosa as recommended by the Planning Commission. A series of study sessions were held on April 20, May 23, May 31, and June 13 2017 to take public input and provide direction on key topics contained within the document: • Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals • Historic Resources • Community Character Areas • Transportation Network • Parking Management Strategies • Prominent Public Views • Coastal Access + Coastal Act Con-sistency • Coastal Hazards + Sea Level Rise In July 2017, the City Council began formal Public Hearings to consider certification of the Environmental Impact Report and adoption of PLAN Hermosa and associated Implementation Actions. Public Hearings were held on the following dates: • July 11, 2017 • July 17,2017 • August 22, 2017 36 I INTRODUCTION • • State Law To comply with State laws, the City of Hermosa Beach is required to prepare and maintain a General Plan for the entirety of the city boundaries, as well as a Local Coastal Program (LCP), for portions of the city located within the Coastal Zone. The LCP comprises the City's land use plans and implementing ordinances to carry out the intent of the Coastal Act. This section identifies the relevant State laws that govern the development, update, and integration of the General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan. General Plan California Planning Law requiring jurisdictions to develop "master plans" or General Plans were first established in 1937, with subsequent legislative actions providing additional clarity and detail on the content and topics covered by a General Plan. PLAN Hermosa has been prepared in accordance with the requirements and intent set forth in the California Government Code written in 2010. Specifically, this Plan: • Must be a comprehensive, long-term plan for the physical development of the county or city. • Must cover all territory within the city boundaries and any land outside the boundaries where the agency's judgment bears relation. • Should be integrated, internally consistent and present compatible statement of policies. • Should accommodate local conditions, while meeting minimum State requirements. • May be adopted in any format deemed appropriate by the legislative body, including combining elements. • May be adopted as a single document or as a group of documents. • Must include diagrams and text setting forth: objectives, principles, and plan standards. • Must address each of the elements to the extent that the subject exists in the planning area. • May include any other elements or address any other subjects which, in the judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the county or city. The General Plan should additionally be prepared and amended in compliance with the following procedural requirements: • May be modified or amended up to four times per year. • Must be reviewed by the Planning Commission and the City Council at public hearings prior to legislative action to adopt or amend this Plan. • Must also be evaluated pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. Specific requirements for each topic are identified within their respective elements. PLAN HERMOSA 37 Coastal Land Use Plan • The California Coastal Act was enacted through legislation in 1976, following a vote of the people to establish the California Coastal Commission. The Coastal Act was established to protect coastal resources and maximize public access to the shoreline. To carry out the mandates of the Coastal Act, local governments with jurisdiction over land in the coastal zone are expected to prepare and implement an LCP. PLAN Hermosa has been prepared in accordance with the requirements and intent set forth in the California Government Code written in 2010. Specifically this Plan: Must address all major policy topics of the Coastal Act. Must incorporate any analysis needed to support coastal policy. Should incorporate local context in conjunction with the legal requirements of the Coastal Act. The LCP should additionally address the procedural requirements for certification and amendments as follows: An LCP adopted by the local government may be certified by the Coastal Commission as advancing the policies of the Coastal Act. Until an LCP has been certified, the local government cannot take over the issuance of coastal development permits. • Amendments to certified LCPs must be submitted to the Coastal Commission for review and, in the case of major amendments, certification. Specific requirements for each topic are identified within their respective elements. General Plan + Coastal Land Use Plan Integration For coastal cities, the Governor's Office of Planning and Research recognizes the relationship between General Plans and Local Coastal Programs and suggests addressing both requirements through integration of the General Plan and Local Coastal Program by either creating a coastal element of the General Plan or incorporation of coastal policies and standards throughout the General Plan. In order to encourage this integration, amendments to the General Plan necessary to preparing a certified LCP do not count toward the limit of four General Plan amendments per year. Hermosa Beach has elected to integrate the General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan, by addressing required coastal topics in the various elements as depicted in Table 0.1 Coastal Land Use Plan Components. Table 0.1 Coastal Land Use Plan Components :.. fM4 kYM1.ki 4� ' Public Access FA I'���tty.,:a ti,;'.Wit.. Governance fit, ;��3.., v}Zi..i�q� gMWc k Land Used ppb w Mobility ' kDesignSt _. t� � s� W %�vR.`a;'kP^N�..."°% aS"4, my tSustatnability +, parks Open .Conervation' Space public 404 .. b y T:,, AI Inhast toe y pAi frz • • .;.. • Recreation +Visitor Serving Facilities • • + -_ Water Quality Protection • + ec Sensitive Habitats + EnvNatural Natural Resources ��� Planning + Development • • + ••• + Archaeological + Cultural Resources • + Scenic + Visual Resources + • Coastal Hazards -_ -_ • ••. Shoreline Erosion + Protective Devices Energy + Industrial Development • • 38 I INTRODUCTION • Measuring Our Progress , Y g \ PLAN Hermosa will be implemented over a period of decades. During this time, the City's long-range planning efforts will use the goals and policies as a guide. However, this Plan is a living document and the City's intent is for the Plan to be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Part of this ongoing review of the Plan will require evaluating progress toward and alignment with the community's vision. There are two mechanisms in which alignment with the vision will be evaluated: • Through use of the decision-making tool when key initiatives are presented for implementation; and • Through tracking of key indicators that provide a snapshot of the community and provide a basis for allocating resources through the annual budget process. Together, these two mechanisms will be used to provide a feedback loop and a transparent process for setting priorities, allocating funding, and highlighting successes. Hermosa Beach places value on preserving its unique small beach town character while still allowing the city to adapt to future changes and growth. A vibrant economy encapsulates the community's value for diverse jobs and businesses and high quality municipal services. The community places high importance on health and environmental leadership, especially those aspects that contribute to strengthening the city's brand and character. Finally, the community seeks to accomplish these objectives in an innovative and forward thinking manner. The Decision -Making Tool and Community Indicators are vital components to successful achievement of the community's vision in a manner aligned with the community's values. The Community Indicators have been aligned with the questions of the Decision -Making Tool to further strengthen the feedback loop and reinforce how the collective set of decisions should contribute to improving the performance of each key indicator. Decision -Making Tool The Decision -Making Tool has been designed to evaluate and highlight the benefits or trade offs of key initiatives as they are transformed from ideas to implementation. The tool is intended to be used by City staff, decision -makers, and the community at any point in which decisions are being made to approve a project, allocate funding or resources toward a program, or identify top priorities. Not every decision will have a positive response to every question, but rather, the Decision -Making Tool is meant to serve as a resource for understanding and disclosing how a particular decision may affect those key values. Community Indicators + Performance Measures The Community Indicators create a snapshot of the community in key focus areas to provide a benchmark for overall performance and trends. The identified indicators are organized in accordance with the PLAN Hermosa Guiding Principles and the Decision -Making Tool, to enhance the relationship between the Vision, the Decision -Making Tool, and the Community Indicators. While not all indicators are currently tracked, the intent is to identify the type of indicator that should be tracked so that a baseline may be established. Since many of the metrics are subjective in nature, the method for determining improvement in those categories will come from the use of community surveys, such as the National Citizen's Survey. The indicators will be evaluated on a quantitative basis, with a directional goal to increase, decrease or maintain. It should be noted that not all metrics will be able to be updated annually, and instead, the most recent year for which information is available has been identified. Finally, the source of information or department responsible for tracking that information has been identified to facilitate greater consistency in the tracking of each indicator. These community indicators shall be included as part of the Performance Measurement section of the annual budget to complement those indicators which are already tracked by different City departments to demonstrate efficiency and effectiveness of services and operations. Together the Community Indicators and City operations indicators will paint a comprehensive picture of both the community's and the City's status. • The following pages identify both the Decision -Making Tool Questions and Community Indicators identified to evaluate progress toward and alignment with the community vision. PLAN HERMOSA I 39 Vfl®Ufl9M a Decision -Making Tool • • • • • • + 0 - Does it enhance/preserve open space? + 0 - Is it in line with Hermosa Beach's greenhouse gas reduction goals? + 0 - Does it positively affect the health of the community? + 0 - Does it protect Hermosa Beach's natural resources? + 0 - Does it keep the beach and ocean clean? + 0 - Does it promote walkability/bikeability? + POSITIVE/STRONG CORRELATION Community Indicators 0 NEUTRAL/NO EFFECT/NOT APPLICABLE - NEGATIVE/NEGATIVE CORRELATION 40 I INTRODUCTION Developed Park Acres per 1,000 Populationand Population (including beach) 5'6 Maintain/ Increase 2015 City of Hermosa Beach -Parks Recreation Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Municipal Greenhouse Gas Emissions 126,611 metric tons 1,372 metric tons Decrease 2012 South Bay Cities Council of Governments Well-being Index Composite Score 77.5 Increase 2012 Beach Cities Health District Natural Resource Consumption Rates: Electricity Natural Gas Water Transportation 91 million kWh 4.2 million therms 700 million gallons 138 million vehicle miles traveled Decrease 2012 South Bay Cities Council of Governments Heal the Bay Report Card (26th St/South of Pier)Heal TMDL Violations (26th St/South of Pier) A/A (1/1) Maintain Decrease 2015 2013 the Bay Bicycle/Pedestrian Facilities Bike/Ped Counts at Key Facilities Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach - Public Works 40 I INTRODUCTION • • HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE da Decision -Making Tool + 0 - Does it enhance our beach culture? + 0 - Does it enhance outdoor recreation? + 0 - Is it family friendly? + 0 - Does it positively impact the health and safety of residents? + 0 - Does it bring the community together? + 0 - Does it serve the diversity of our population? + 0 - Does it acknowledge our cultural heritage? + 0 - is it an appropriate scale for Hermosa Beach? + 0 - Is it aesthetically appropriate? + 0 - Is it a complementary use of public and private space? + POSITIVE/STRONG CORRELATION Community Indicators 0 NEUTRAL/NO EFFECT/NOT APPLICABLE - NEGATIVE/NEGATIVE CORRELATION nMfif' fYRx A ". S ':?.1",''.. ��., 5 PROGRESS INDICATORS °" )q,,' ''' ''�v.1):4' 'y.•'i`�1� ,. Survey Question - Rate the strength of beach culture Ny4 .W�YV BASELINE �� „, .: Not Currently Tracked P' ,.OBJECT VE k 4 , R Increase M p RECENT `�,. '�A n/a SOURCE ', City of Hermosa Beach Survey Question - Frequency in which residents go outdoors for leisure Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Survey Question - Rate the family- friendliness of events, overall community Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Reported Violent Crimes per 1,000 population Reported Property Crimes per 1,000 population 1.9 27.3 Decrease 2014 City of Hermosa Beach - Police Department Survey Question - Sense of inclusiveness or opportunities to participate Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Survey Question - Feel your needs are represented in decision-making process Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Number of Designated Historic Resources 3 Increase 2015 City of Hermosa Beach - Community Development Average Commercial Floor Area Ratio (as defined by buildout projections) 0.58 Floor Area Ratio Increase to Max. of 0.75 2015 • City of Hermosa Beach - Community Development Survey Question - Rate the overall quality of the public realm Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Survey Question - Rate the balance of public and private spaces Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach PLAN HERMOSA I 41 w'''''''w ECOM Decision -Making Tool + 0 - Is it business -friendly? + 0 - Does it support our schools? + 0 - Does it improve our infrastructure? + 0 - Does it improve property values? + 0 - Does it promote our brand? + 0 - Is it entrepreneurial? + 0 - Does it serve the local market? + 0 - Does it reduce cost, waste, or reliance on City resources? + 0 - Does it balance public and private interests? + 0 - Does it increase tax and other revenues going to the community? + POSITIVE/STRONG CORRELATION Community Indicators 0 NEUTRAL/NO EFFECT/NOT APPLICABLE - NEGATIVE/NEGATIVE CORRELATION PROGRESS.IND CATORS �.EAR SOURCE. ' OBJECTI E Survey Question - Rate the Business Friendliness of the City Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach - Economic Development Academic Performance Index (Valley/View) 949/939 Maintain 2014 California Department of Education Overall Infrastructure Ratings Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach - Public Works Department Total Assessed Land and Improvement Value $5.4 Billion Increase 2014 City of Hermosa Beach - Finance Department Survey Question - Rate the strength of local brand Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Number of Business Licenses 1058 Increase 2014 City of Hermosa Beach - Finance Department Retail Capture/Leakage Rates Retail Leakage in apparel, general merchandise, home furnishing, auto parts, general wholesale Increase Capture/ Decrease Leakage 2012 City of Hermosa Beach - Economic Development $ per service population for Mandatory vs Discretionary Programs (while meeting Level of Service) Not Currently Tracked Decrease Mandatory/n/a Increase Discretionary City of Hermosa Beach - Finance Department Number or Area with Public Encroachments Not Currently Tracked Maintain n/a City of Hermosa Beach - Community Development Total Taxable Sales $226 million Increase 2013 California State Board of Equalization 42 1 INTRODUCTION • • • CATALYST FOR INNOVATION Decision -Making Tool + 0 - Is this a potential catalyst for strategic, transformative, and differentiated development or is this "business as usual"? + 0 - Will this define and enhance the City brand to attract businesses, investment, tourists, and like-minded residents? + 0 - Will this activate community involvement, participation, and innovation? + POSITIVE/STRONG CORRELATION Community Indicators 0 NEUTRAL/NO EFFECT/NOT APPLICABLE - NEGATIVE/NEGATIVE CORRELATION PROGRESS INDICATORS Number of strategic, transformative initiatives approved BASELINE Not Currently Tracked OBJECTIVE Increase RECENT YEAR n/a SOURCE City of Hermosa Beach Number of Awards and Recognition Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach Survey Question - Volunteer rate, Community Participation Rate Not Currently Tracked Increase n/a City of Hermosa Beach PLAN HERMOSA I 43 'f.;'''T-r-- iiiitkijiirsoftsuri tineaurverAlimyeszaxgri igaleI ...�yY R ' G si$ � �,yy -r -' lt. ,t ( ato' 4F'J t:41:1 �n1 r 1117 x2 r':- IE z, •...+ fir'-� Qn 11/ +4*tort ¢'eta°Y �,y %�qr •Ta� t�S.�ilw: Strong leadership, sound decision-making, and transparency in • • government are essential qualities of a fair and effective government. • • And such qualities contribute towards the creation of a sustainable and • everlasting community with a high quality of life, clean environment, and • strong economy. The Governance Element of this Plan sets forth the City's : legal authority to adopt and implement the goals, policies, and actions of PLAN Hermosa. This element also describes the associated leadership, • decision-making process, development requirements, and regional : coordination necessary to achieve the goals, policies and actions in an : inclusive and open environment. These goals, policies, and actions will • help Hermosa Beach to maintain our sense of community. 44 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE • • State Law The State of California does not require that a city's general plan address governance. However, the City of Hermosa Beach views this as a critical topic and believes it sets the tone for decision-making on many of the topics required by State law, so it is included as an optional element. Additionally, State law requires communities to establish policies and standards for consulting with Native American tribal organizations in the development or amendment of the General Plan and during the environmental review process. Context Maintaining good and effective governance is a high priority for the City of Hermosa Beach. Since its incorporation as a City in 1907, the City of Hermosa Beach has established itself as being a small town, friendly beach community. Called "the best little beach city" for its broad, clean beaches, overall safety, and thriving businesses, it is also creative in its personal and compassionate approach to city government. Serving the community, creating community benefits, taking responsibility, and finding pragmatic solutions are characteristics viewed by the City as what defines governance. The City has prioritized excellence in governance and positive, constructive relationships with residents, business owners, visitors, and neighbors. Decision-making + Leadership Community members and leaders of Hermosa Beach view proper decision-making and leadership as an important topic in city governance. In recent years, the City of Hermosa Beach has initiated several processes and employed concepts to increase the community's involvement and understanding in how the City makes decisions as an organization. Some of these recent efforts have included a community dialogue campaign, strategic planning process, and priority -based budgeting. Collectively, these efforts ensure that the approach to governance, management, and service delivery in Hermosa Beach are agreed upon, revisited on a regular basis, and reflective of the community's values and priorities. Governance means... • Listening to residents • Anticipating and focusing on issues • Determining vision and values • Decision-making on direction and resources • Setting the "tone" for the City • Measuring staff, program, and operational performance • Educating the citizenry • Mobilizing support in the community Management means... • Analyzing issues • Developing professional recommendations • Decision-making on programs and resources • Setting the "tone" for the organization • Developing programs and systems • Determine implementation plans and strategies • Investing in employees • Evaluating and adjusting performance Service Delivery means... • Developing operational plans and tactics • Organizing the work unit* • Implementing decisions and programs • Responding to resident issues • Maintaining equipment and facilities • Providing quality services and products • Developing work unit and employees • Evaluating services and citizen impact Community Dialogue In 2013, the City of Hermosa Beach initiated a community dialogue process to facilitate a conversation across the community and all of its interests to determine the community's values and priorities for the future. The six-month process included several public meetings, a working group, and development of a Quality of Life Report, a Fiscal Summary, and a Decision -Making Tool. The results of this Community Dialogue process provide a framework and process for decision-making by the City as well as individuals on important decisions regarding Hermosa Beach's future. *The work unit refers to the employees and resources needed to provide services to the community. PLAN HERMOSA I 45 Figure 1.1 illustrates the relationship between the components of PLAN Hermosa and the following City decision-making processes. Strategic Planning Since 2013, the Hermosa Beach City Council and staff have utilized a strategic planning process and multi -day intensive workshops to outline new goals and set priorities for the upcoming year. Strategic planning workshops are organized in a way so that the community, City staff, and elected officials can come together as a group and talk about the future of the city. The process is meant to help provide more clarity on Council goals and priorities to guide programs and ongoing operations. LONG-TERM Fiscal Health Diagnostic Tool With a focus on achieving long-term fiscal sustainability, this Diagnostic Tool is used to assess the City's picture of financial health by matching ongoing revenues with ongoing expenses and modeling various scenarios in order to assess the impact of decisions. First implemented in 2014, the tool is currently used in preparing the City's five- year financial forecast. W Priority -Based Budgeting In 2014, the City initiated a new approach to linking funding decisions with strategic priorities through L Priority -Based Budgeting. This approach provides a comprehensive review of the entire organization and will allow Hermosa Beach leaders to evaluate the costs/benefits of City services at a program level; align resources with higher -priority programs; and craft a budget that plans for long-term needs and shorter -term spending of these services on the basis of their relevance to community priorities established during strategic planning efforts. Decision -Making Tool The Decision -Making Tool, created through the Community Dialogue process, is designed to. enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the City's government, identify and optimize opportunities for residents and businesses to improve quality of life, create a culture of innovation, ensure the community values and priorities are equally considered, and deliver transparency to the decision-making process. 46 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE SHORT-TERM Vision + Guiding Principles • • • • • -4 Figure 1.1 Relationship between PLAN Hermosa and decision-making process Strategic Plan Budget Process 15 Year Vision ong-Ter Fiscal Plan Community Indicators + Performance Measures 5 year Goals + Priorities Priority - Based udgetin Fiscal Health Diagnostics Poliicy+ Management Agenda Budgeted Decision - Programs Making Tool PLAN HERMOSA l 47 Civic Engagement The Hermosa Beach community prides itself on being highly active in its own governance, and the City is committed to actively seeking public participation. Community members actively participate at council meetings and committees, volunteer at schools and philanthropic organizations, and collaborate with City staff on the latest technology platforms. This level of civic engagement supports responsive governance, while ensuring the preservation of the city's small beach town character. The City strives to create an open process through which it can respond to its constituents' needs while balancing competing interests and opposing views. It is also committed to treating all individuals with respect and dignity, and providing courtesy and thoughtfulness in all interactions. These qualities are invaluable to City staff and elected officials as they work with community members to create a more vibrant, socially rich, economically successful, and beautiful place to live, work, and play. The City recognizes and supports the need to maintain a high level of service to the community. It further recognizes the need to pursue and engage various informational technologies to make communications more efficient and accessible. The City regularly identifies and implements new communication techniques and methods to improve service delivery and open avenues of communication between the community and their City government. In order to continue to improve the ease of doing business with the City, additional services including online permitting services for certain development or building projects, and streamlined processing of general requests for service or information are being implemented regularly. Highlights of the City's civic engagement practices include: Voter Initiatives - The City of Hermosa Beach has a long history of direct democracy through use of the ballot initiative process to answer questions about local policy related to open space, development and zoning standards, fees and taxes, and other important issues facing the city. Public Meetings - City Council and advisory commission proceedings are open to the public. Hermosa Beach posts current agendas, staff reports, and supplemental materials up to 5 days prior to the meeting. The City also provides live and archived streaming video of City Council Meetings on-line and on the City's cable television channel. 48 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE Community Workshops and Working Groups - Nearly all major capital projects and major planning efforts in Hermosa Beach involve numerous meetings to collect input and feedback from the community prior to placing a proposal in front of the City's decision makers. Many of these large efforts include the formation of a working group or committee to review and refine proposals, ensuring that projects are reflective of the community's values and priorities. Online Engagement - To facilitate community engagement in City affairs in an increasingly digital world, the City has utilized multiple online platforms to provide two-way engagement to the community. "Speak Up, Hermosa!" is just one of various online tools hosted by the City to provide a platform in which members of the community can generate and discuss ideas, issues, and projects to improve Hermosa Beach. Community -Based Organizations - Hermosa Beach would not enjoy such a high quality of life without investment and collaboration from its numerous community-based organizations. Community organizations, many of which are highlighted throughout this Plan, collaborate with the City to provide funding and volunteer in support of parks, the library, creative arts, historic preservation, and education, among many other social and environmental causes. Leadership Hermosa - a community-based organization founded in 2003 to encourage community involvement in the city. More specifically, the organization strives to build a life- long love for Hermosa Beach by educating existing and potential leaders within the community. Since its launch, members of this organization have completed a number of projects that have fostered community values, and many participants have gone on to serve in leadership positions on City Commissions and City Council. Nixie - The Hermosa Beach Police Department (HBPD) has begun participating in an open communication and engagement platform called Nixie. This online forum informs residents about news and safety alerts in the city, connecting residents, educators, public safety, and businesses together. • • Technology + Innovation A key feature in the development of modern, innovative cities is the installation of digital infrastructure. On a planning level, the City of Hermosa Beach has done little to address the formative impacts of technology. The technology and innovation policies outlined in this section are designed to increase efficiency, bring out new ideas, and allow businesses and residents to become more digitally connected. Some of the most valuable contributions of technology is idea sharing and community interaction. With technology easily accessible, community members can communicate and share ideas more easily. As a result, innovative solutions to problems will be communicated much faster than before. Community members will also be encouraged to collaborate with one another fostering a more efficient and effective approach. Another valuable asset of technology is the ability to maintain and enhance transparency between the City and its community members. By utilizing advanced technology, the City will be able to relay information and data to community members more easily. This will encourage civic participation along with ensuring full transparency. Community Representation The City has a variety of Commissions and Advisory Boards that represent various community interests and perspectives. These bodies, which address a range of topics of importance to the city, are comprised of community members - residents, businesses representatives, and other stakeholders. The Commissions and Advisory Boards represent the community by making recommendations and/or decisions that guide City policy and actions. From time to time, the City also forms ad-hoc committees to address topics of current importance. The committees are typically formed to address a specific topic or issue and then, once resolved, are disbanded. The City's various Commissions make recommendations to the City Council, and in some circumstances have approval authority for a range of topics important to the City's services, operations and development over time. It is within the purview of the City Council to establish the composition, work, and responsibilities of any Commission. Commissions and Advisory Committees have been formed on a permanent basis to address topics including: parks and recreation, public works, planning, and emergency preparedness. Other advisory committees have been formed on an ad-hoc or temporary basis to address issues related to specific topics or geographies including recent use of: a Green Task Force, an Upper Pier Avenue Improvement Committee, and a Pacific Coast Highway/Aviation Improvement Committee. Planning Commission California Planning and Zoning Law requires each jurisdiction to identify a governing body to provide for planning, subdivision, and land use regulation. In Hermosa Beach, the Planning Commission has been established to serve in that role. For certain types of development applications, the Planning Commission is required to review and either approve or deny, with the City Council only reviewing if the Planning Commission's decision is appealed. Certain planning and development decisions are required by State law to be reviewed and either approved or denied by the City Council at a public hearing, subsequent to a review and recommendation by the Planning Commission. Public Works Commission The duties of the Public Works Commission are to review and make recommendations to the City Council on all capital improvement projects, assist in the development and updating of design guidelines for public improvements, infrastructure, and other matters referred to the Commission by the City Council. Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council in all matters pertaining to the Department of Community Resources; cooperates with other governmental agencies and civic groups on the advancement of sound leisure, cultural, social services and educational programming; and formulates policies on the services, programs and lease agreements of the Department. Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission The Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission provides advice and recommendations to the City Council on how the City and the residents can prepare and respond swiftly and responsibly to emergencies. PLAN HERMOSA I 49 Regional Collaboration Part of the City's decision-making process involves having strong ;to partnerships and relationships with outside agencies and organizations. This is due to both a desire to have good relations with the City's neighbors and out of necessity, since Hermosa Beach is bordered by other jurisdictions and must rely on and collaborate with outside agencies to provide services to the citizens of Hermosa Beach. Adjacent Cities: The City commonly works on issues of mutual interest with the adjacent cities of Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. To provide responsive emergency services and expand the availability of emergency response services, the City of Hermosa Beach has long-standing agreements with adjacent cities and Los Angeles County to provide additional resources and greater expertise in unique incidents or conditions. Additionally, the land use and transportation choices made in one jurisdiction can provide benefits to or have impacts on a nearby jurisdiction. Transportation Agencies: City staff and members of the City Council regularly participate in the regional decision-making processes. Elected officials and staff are actively involved with Noble Pork the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG), the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), LA Metro, and Caltrans to provide transportation services, maintenance, and even funding for projects and programs. Utility Providers: Most of the utility services in Hermosa Beach are provided by private utility companies or public agencies which serve jurisdictions throughout Southern California. Beach Cities Health District: Health organizations like the Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) which has been serving the communities of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach since 1955, offer important preventative health services to residents of all abilities and ages—from pre -natal and children to families and older adults. California Coastal Commission: With nearly half of the land area in Hermosa Beach located within the Coastal Zone, a collaborative working relationship with Coastal Commission Staff is essential to fulfilling the objectives of the Coastal Act to maximize public access to the coast. Maintaining collaborative working relationships with these agencies and organizations serves to benefit Hermosa Beach and makes sure the needs and interests of the community are represented. • • Turning the Vision into Policy Through the visioning process of the Plan, as well as the community dialogue, the community expressed a number of priorities and values for the future of Hermosa Beach that consistently fit into three themes: We like the character of our town, we want to see a more diverse and thriving local economy, and we recognize and value that a clean environment and healthy lifestyles are essential to our high quality of life. Because these themes touch on so many topics throughout this Plan, the overarching policies related to each are presented here within the community governance element, with additional policies then highlighted throughout the remainder of the document. beach town character vo oyri2nt economy he ithy environment and lifestyles Small Beach Town Character Community members see Hermosa Beach's small beach town character as an important characteristic of the city. In order to maintain and preserve the city's unique features, City leaders must carefully monitor the scale and type of new and existing development. Maintaining current building limits, limiting large developments, and recruiting small, green businesses are all ways which will conserve the city's character. More importantly, the public will have opportunities to be involved in all development decisions to ensure they reflect the community's vision. The City will also seek new ways to maintain the small beach town character through encouraging artist development and increasing beach play areas. Hermosa has character • Buildings are an appropriate scale and size. • The town values and has taken steps to maintain historic buildings. • The beach, parks, and open space offer opportunities to connect with nature. • There are a mix of original clapboard beach cottages and newer "beach -type" homes. • Spaces are safe, family -friendly, and foster social interaction and sense of community. • The City continues to maintain streets and infrastructure. • Hermosa Beach schools are some of the best in the State. • Visitors enjoy spending time at the beach and shopping and dining throughout town. PLAN HERMOSA I 51 Vibrant Economy The City recognizes and supports the need to maintain a strong, diverse and vibrant local economy. Attracting businesses sought after by the public, seeking projects and activities such as filming, photography, or arts/events, and renting out City facilities for events are other creative ways the City will generate extra revenue. Capitalizing on Hermosa Beach's coveted location along the California coast while preserving the city's unique charm will ensure a healthy, vibrant economy. Hermosa has a thriving economy • The strategies of the Downtown Plan will be implemented to create a revitalized, family friendly Downtown. • Safe and beautiful commercial corridors provide services to residents and visitors. • A large share of residents are able to telecommute or working from home. • The Cypress Area is home to a variety of artistic and production uses. • Local business owners work with the City to attract new businesses. • Environmental leadership helps to attract new green and cleantech businesses and investments. 52 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE Healthy Environment S and Lifestyles The City of Hermosa Beach is committed to promoting healthy environments and lifestyles. As the first South Bay city to be certified as a Blue Zone community, Hermosa Beach strives to be a leader in healthy living and reducing our impact on the environment. In 2012, Hermosa Beach was the first city in the country to adopt a Living Streets Policy that promotes the health and mobility of all Hermosa Beach citizens and visitors by providing high quality pedestrian, bicycling, and transit access to destinations throughout the city. Hermosa is a leader in health and sustainability Hermosa is a certified Blue Zone community. Living streets provide safe and convenient travel choices and offer opportunities for socializing and relaxation. Efficient water use, conservation, reuse, recycling and retention contributes to Hermosa's brand as a sustainable and resilient city. City has a Healthy Air Hermosa program for smoke-free environments. Citizens shop at the Farmers Markets and cultivate their own gardens. Children and adults have regular access to recreational opportunities and physical activity. • • • Goals and Policies • This chapter of the General Plan describes the system of governance and provides goals and policies for Hermosa Beach to continue its positive relationship with residents, businesses, and visitors. Together, the goals and policies support the community's desire to maintain its small beach town character and vibrant economy while promoting a healthy environment and lifestyles. In addition, this chapter will support community involvement and investment, and ensure decision-making and leadership is conducted in an ethical, transparent, and innovative manner that reflects community values. Goal 1. A high degree of transparency and integrity in the decision-making process. To maintain the community's trust and to serve residents and business owners toward realizing the community's vision, the City is committed to employing a consensus -based and transparent approach to decision-making. Policies 1.1 Open meetings. Maintain the community's trust by holding meetings in which decisions are being made, that are open and available for all community members to attend, participate, or view remotely. 1.2 Strategic planning. Regularly discuss and set priorities at the City Council and management level to prioritize work programs and staffing needs. 1.3 Priority -based budgeting. Utilize priority -based budgeting to ensure funding allocations are consistent with the priorities set by the community and City Council. 1.4 Consensus oriented. Strive to utilize a consensus -oriented decision making process. 1.5 Leadership training. Encourage City staff and Boards and Commission members to participate in leadership and governance training programs. 1.6 Long-term considerations. Prioritize decisions that provide long-term community benefit and discourage decisions that provide short-term community benefit but reduce long-term opportunities. 1.7 Diversity of representation. Strive to reflect a comprehensive cross-section of the community in appointments to Commissions and Advisory Committees. 1.8 Nonresident representation. Ensure non-residents with an interest in the City are offered a reasonable opportunity to participate in working groups and committees. 1.9 Civic policy and leadership academy. Support local programs that teach community members about local government functions and processes and encourages community participation in civic efforts. 1.10 Record systems and technology. Maintain record systems and utilize technology that promotes public access. PLAN HERMOSA I 53 Goal 2. The community is active and engaged in decision-making processes. To engage a diverse cross-section of the community in the City's decision-making process related to policies, ordinances, and funding priorities, ensuring that the actions taken by the City reflect the needs and interests of the community as a whole. Policies 2.1 Multiple outreach methods. Consistently engage in community outreach through neighborhood forums, social media, the latest technologies, personal interaction, and other methods on a regular basis. 2.2 Universal outreach. Utilize diverse methods of outreach that promote public participation and ensure Hermosa Beach events are communicated to all segments of the communities. 2.3 Public participation guidelines. Establish parameters and guidelines to ensure public participation is promoted through diverse methods. 2.4 Public forums. Host periodic public forums on issues important to the community, facilitating these forums with the purpose of guiding City policy. 2.5 Notification of decision-making. Centralize or consolidate community -wide mailing lists that include representation from homeowners associations, neighborhood and service groups, the school districts, the business community and other interest groups. 2.6 Responsive to community needs. Continue to be responsive to community inquiries, providing public information and recording feedback from community interactions. 2.7 Major planning efforts. Require major planning efforts, policies, or projects to include a public engagement effort. 2.8 Youth participation. Engage and incorporate the viewpoints and ideas of the community's youth population in long-range planning efforts. 2.9 Evaluation and feedback. Periodically solicit service evaluations from the community and utilize feedback to improve and develop the City's policies, ordinances, programs, and funding priorities. 2.10 Value and recognize volunteers. As practical, utilize volunteers to assist with community programs and services and seek to utilize the professional/trade skills of volunteers. 2.11 Social media and technology applications. Enhance the City's social media presence and use of technology applications as tools to notify, provide updates, and engage the community. 54 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE Goal 3. Excellent customer service through the use of emerging technologies. To serve the community with professionalism and courtesy, and to strengthen information sharing and communication between the City and its constituents; the City has placed a high level of importance on customer service. Embracing technology in City government will make operations across all departments increasingly more efficient. With more available data, decision -makers will have access to information that will influence decisions that should be made. Social media and mobile applications have also connected the City with its residents. Outreach and receiving community input is much easier and has streamlined the planning process. Policies 3.1 Increased access to services. Strive to provide access to facilities, programs, and services at times and locations that are convenient for residents and businesses. 3.2 Social media technology. Make use of social networking, streaming video, photo -sharing, and other technologies as they evolve to provide greater avenues of communication with constituents and community members. 3.3 Online materials. As feasible, continue to expand the City's website with data and materials for residents and people doing business with the City, including City Council and Commission agenda packets, permit application forms, web -based geographic information systems (GIS), and use of new technologies as appropriate. 3.4 Virtual public counter. As feasible, establish a "virtual" public counter through an online permitting system. 3.5 Expanded digital archive. As feasible, expand the use of document imaging to maintain and provide access to vital records. PLAN HERMOSA I 55 ,.. Goal 4. A leader and partner in the region. gEiP As a small community in a large metropolitan region, the City of Hermosa Beach understands and capitalizes on our role and responsibility to collaborate with other agencies and nearby jurisdictions on issues of mutual concern. Policies 4.1 Regional governance. Play an active role in the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, the Southern California Association of Governments and other regional agencies to protect and promote the interests of the City. 4.2 Leadership in sustainability. Establish the City as a regional leader in sustainable development and encourage compact, walkable development patterns that conserve land resources, supports active transportation, reduces vehicle trips, improves air quality, and conserves energy and water. 4.3 Collaboration with adjacent jurisdictions. Maintain strong collaborative relationships with adjacent jurisdictions and work together on projects of mutual interest and concern. 4.4 Regional transportation and infrastructure decisions. Actively support regional transportation and infrastructure projects and investment decisions that benefit the City and the region. 4.5 Coastal collaboration. Maintain a coordinated working relationship with the Coastal Commission to maximize public access to the California Coast. 4.6 Native American consultation. Coordinate with the Native American Heritage Commission and local Native American tribes during General Plan amendments and environmental review processes to ensure their concerns are considered and to assist in the identification and treatment of prehistoric or Native American resources. 56 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE Goal 5. Small beach town character is reflected throughout Hermosa Beach. Retaining the scale and community -oriented nature of Hermosa Beach is of the utmost importance. While it can be difficult to fully encapsulate what defines the character of Hermosa Beach, the City understands the various aspects associated with community character, and is committed to protecting the character defining features of Hermosa Beach. These overarching policies articulate the City's approach to ensuring that community character is retained for future generations. Policies 5.1 Residential and commercial compatibility. Provide a balance between residential and commercial uses and strive to ensure their compatibility. 5.2 Development decisions. Strive to conduct the development review process in a consistent and predictable manner. 5.3 Clear regulations. Establish clear, unambiguous regulations and policies to clearly communicate the City's expectations for new development. 5.4 Guidelines and standards. Provide for clear development guidance, standards, and rules by developing tools and guidelines to illustrate concepts of local character. 5.5 Community benefits. Consider incentives for new development that provides a substantial economic benefit to the community such as retail sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes or higher -paying jobs. Prohibit the provision of incentives that outweigh the direct benefits from the use. 5.6 Revitalization incentives. Develop and provide incentives to assist developers in revitalization and rehabilitation of existing structures, uses and properties. 5.7 Visitor and resident balance. Recognize the desire and need to balance visitor -serving and local -serving uses as a key to preserving character and the economic vitality of the community. 5.8 Public private partnerships. Pursue the use of public-private partnerships to implement projects and efforts that maintain character and benefit the community. PLAN HERMOSA I 57 Goal 6. A broad-based and Tong -term economic development strategy for Hermosa Beach that supports existing businesses while attracting new business and tourism. The long-term economic health of Hermosa Beach can be sustained through a diversified commercial base, retention of knowledge workers, and expansion of creative and sharing economies. These overarching policies articulate the City's approach to creating a thriving local economy. Policies 6.1 Long-term economic development. Support the development and implementation of long- term economic development strategies that seek to establish and keep new businesses and a strong middle class in Hermosa Beach over the decades to come. 6.2 Regional presence. Encourage economic development strategies that will make Hermosa Beach a driving force and jobs center behind the regional economy of the South Bay region. 6.3 Diversified economy. Encourage economic development strategies that allow the city to move beyond reliance on its two main industries - accommodation and food service and retail trade- and transform itself to a mature mix of economic activity and job opportunities. 6.4 Business support. Support the Chamber of Commerce, retailers, tourist service businesses, artists, and other agencies to develop an aggressive marketing strategy with implementation procedures. 6.5 Creative economy. Prioritize strategies that will create an economy full of diverse talents, trades and goods for the city. For long lasting economic success, a range of services, arts, entertainment and retail should be supported on all scales of the city's economy. 6.6 Pop-up shops. Develop plans and programs for underutilized spaces, such as vacant buildings, utility corridors, parkways, etc., for temporary retail, restaurant, and community - promoting uses. 6.7 Retail base. Encourage economic development reflective of the character of Hermosa Beach with small and medium scale retail development within Hermosa Beach in order to create a stronger tax base and increase the City's tax revenue. 58 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE • Goal 7. Community sustainability and health are a priority in policy and decision-making. To maintain and improve the health and well being of all community members, the City recognizes that they play a critical role in developing a culture of health in Hermosa Beach. These overarching policies articulate the City's approach to ensuring that the community is built for healthy and sustainable lifestyles. Policies 7.1 Integrate health. Encourage public and private health partners as part of community engagement processes (including committees, stakeholders and workshops) in planning and development decisions. 7.2 Health conditions. Support the work of Beach Cities Health District to monitor health and well being monitoring and tracking of health outcomes. 7.3 Health in all policies. Integrate health, livability, and sustainability principles when adopting new policies and periodically review and evaluate adopted policies for their impact or opportunity to improve health, livability, and sustainability. 7.4 Evaluation and disclosure. Require an evaluation and disclosure (e.g. Health checklists, Health Impact Assessments) of environmental and health impacts or benefits for major discretionary projects. 7.5 Health -promoting uses. Prioritize health -promoting uses in new development. 7.6 Livability principles. Amend or update policies that may run counter to livability, sustainability, and health principles. 7.7 Food and nutrition choices. Expand healthy food and nutrition choices at City facilities and City -sponsored events. 7.8 Advertising health. Discourage the branding or advertisement of unhealthy behaviors at City facilities or City -sponsored events. 7.9 Healthy commercial products. Encourage commercial establishments to provide or offer healthy products and advertising. 7.10 Senior needs and services. Consider and address the specialized services and needs of a growing population of seniors regarding health and wellness, recreation, housing, and transportation. PLAN HERMOSA I 59 Goal 8. A performance-based management and 111 benchmarking program. Through performance-based management approaches, the City of Hermosa Beach can strive to ensure effective and efficient management of City operations. Additionally, a commitment to performance management criteria helps to satisfy the transparency and accountability desires of the community from their local government and decision -makers. Policies 8.1 Community indicators. Utilize performance metrics, standards, and data collection procedures to evaluate progress towards goals. 8.2 Amendment and implementation. Periodically evaluate, and as necessary, amend this Plan to ensure continued progress toward the community vision. 8.3 Consistency among plans. Require other City plans and implementation mechanisms to demonstrate their consistency with this Plan. 8.4 Strategic Plan alignment. Evaluate the Strategic Plan for alignment with the Vision, Goals, and Policies of PLAN Hermosa, and as necessary, amend as the community Vision evolves. • 60 I CHAPTER 1: GOVERNANCE • This element of PLAN Hermosa provides goals and policies to guide the continuing evolution of the urban form and land use patterns of Hermosa Beach. In coordination with the Sustainability, Mobility, Housing, Infrastructure, and Parks and Open Space Elements, it defines how the city's buildings and public spaces - homes, stores, offices, parks, streets, and sidewalks - should organize and shape the community in the future and contributes to its reduced carbon footprint. The decisions we make about how our city is laid out and how are buildings are designed directly affect Hermosa's sustainability. These decisions directly influence how much energy our buildings need, how easy it is to use different types of transportation, the availability of healthy food choices, and the capacity of our community members to utilize alternative fuels and renewable energy sources. By establishing a vision for the built environment, the City is inviting property owners, business owners, and community members to invest private funds into the development, preservation, and rehabilitation of buildings, land uses, and infrastructure. This Element provides a long-term vision, goals and policies for land use, character, and sustainable community design in Hermosa Beach. PLAN HERMOSA I 61 State Law This Land Use and Design Element has been prepared to meet State General Plan Law requirements for land use identifying the location and distribution of uses, and additionally to meet California Coastal Act requirements related to coastal access as it relates to visitor -serving accommodations and coastal dependent or related uses. General Plan The Land Use Element has the broadest scope of the required elements, regulating how all land in a city is to be used in the future and to fully reflect the range of physical attributes that are important for the success of Hermosa Beach. California law identifies a city's General Plan: Must include the distribution of housing, business, and industry. Must include the distribution of open space, including agricultural land, natural resources, recreation, and enjoyment of scenic beauty. Must include the distribution of recreation facilities and opportunities. Must include the location of educational facilities, public buildings and grounds, and solid/ liquid waste disposal facilities. May include other categories of public and private uses of land. • Must include standards of population density and building intensity for the districts covered by the plan. • Must identify and annually review areas that are subject to flooding identified by floodplain mapping by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). • May include text and diagrams that express community intentions regarding urban form and design - including differentiating neighborhoods, corridors, districts, mixture of land uses and housing types within each, and specific measures for regulating relationships between buildings and outdoor public areas. 62 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Coastal Land Use Plan • The Coastal Act requires communities within the Coastal Zone to address the land use related topics of: • residential and commercial development density or intensity; • coastal -dependent and coastal -related uses; • recreation and visitor -serving accommodations; • energy and industrial development; and • archaeological and cultural resources. Context The urban structure and land use pattern of Hermosa Beach today is a reflection of the community's early history, originally as a summer and weekend beach destination for Los Angeles residents visiting by way of the Pacific Electric Rail, and later as a full-time, full service community. The tracts originally laid out by the Hermosa Land and Water Company more than a century ago, included smaller lots and block sizes, a mix of small scale commercial and residential uses, and a distributed network of schools and parks to create a compact urban form. While continually evolving to meet modern needs and desires, Hermosa Beach has been able to retain many of the traditional neighborhood and town features, which has contributed to the high desirability of Hermosa Beach as a livable and sustainable community. The Coastal Zone in Hermosa Beach Approximately half of the City lies within the coastal zone. The coastal zone boundary, defined by the California Coastal Act, spans the entire length of Hermosa Beach from north to south, and extends from the mean high tide line inland to roughly Ardmore Avenue with two exclusions - the area from Hermosa Avenue to Valley Drive between Longfellow Avenue and 31st Place; and the area east of Park Avenue or Loma Drive between 25th Street and 16th Street. • Existing Land Use Patterns Land uses in Hermosa Beach are largely defined by its residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors or districts, with public and recreational spaces like parks, the beach, and community facilities found distributed throughout the city. There are four broad categories of land uses that can be currently found in Hermosa Beach. These categories of land uses and the amount of land currently allocated to each category are described below and identified in Figure 2.1. Residential Uses Residential uses, in terms of land area, are the predominant use in Hermosa Beach, accounting for approximately 67% of the city's total land area. Residential uses range in scale and density throughout the city to define and create residential neighborhoods, with a range of single-family homes, small scale apartments or condominiums, and larger multi -family housing developments. Single-family land uses are found throughout the city, with some blocks and neighborhoods in the northeast, east, and southeast areas of the city that are exclusively or predominantly filled with single-family uses. There are 3,261 parcels in Hermosa Beach with single-family uses currently in place. Multi -family housing units are predominantly found in the southwest area of Hermosa Beach. The northwest portion of the city and The Strand have an even mix of single-family and multi- family housing options. There are two mobile home areas - one located north of Pier Avenue, between Loma and Valley Drive, which is a resident -owned park, and the other along 10th Street between Ardmore and PCH. There are also higher density multi -family units on PCH between 16th and 21st Street. Commercial Uses Commercial uses include a wide variety of retail, restaurant, office, and other uses that provide goods or services and help to drive the local economy. These uses can be found primarily along the city's corridors and in Downtown, with pockets of small scale commercial found in residential neighborhoods. Commercial uses along Hermosa Avenue, PCH, Prospect Avenue, and Manhattan Avenue primarily consist of restaurants, stores, and services to serve the neighborhood and nearby beachgoers. Collectively these uses account for approximately 7% of the city's total land area. Figure 2.1 Existing Land Uses 0. nom: Land Use Designations Slndc f army Residaltal IIJ-Family Res dent ai What, Flames and Tract Pangs General OS:* Commercial end Services • Facetbs • Education Industry! E2Transportation. Crmrrunicanans, aid Utiles MI Wed Carnmuaal and Industrial • Il,cd R.aaidcntial and Cornmardal Q Open Space end Reaeatim cm wont PLAN HERMOSA I 63 Light Industrial Uses Light industrial and manufacturing uses in Hermosa Beach account for approximately 4% of the city's total land area and are generally located within the city's industrial area near Cypress Avenue. The Cypress Avenue area includes four acres of industrial land uses including light manufacturing, warehouses, construction supply, a surfboard manufacturing use, auto shops, air conditioning and heating manufacturing uses, and the City maintenance yard. Institutional Uses Institutional land uses include schools, government- owned facilities, parks, the beach and open space, and essential operations and service areas such as parking, utility buildings, the City maintenance yard and other facilities, or utility easements, which in total account for 147 acres or 22% of the total land area. The City's largest parks or recreational spaces: the Community Center, Valley Park, South Park, and Clark Stadium are located adjacent to the Greenbelt with smaller parks and parkettes, less than one acre in size, distributed throughout the city. Vacant Land Vacant land accounts for less than 0.5% of the land area in Hermosa Beach. Of the vacant land, the majority of parcels are currently zoned for residential uses, placing greater pressure on underutilized commercial land to redevelop or densify. While redevelopment of underutilized spaces is a viable option, consideration of context and community character need to be considered so that new uses and development are consistent with the existing or preferred urban form of the city. 64 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Community Character + Public Realm Qa% This variation in land uses across the city, coupled with the development and redevelopment of individual properties over time, has resulted in a set of distinct, yet well integrated areas of town. These areas can generally be categorized as neighborhoods, corridors, or districts, with each area having its own unique characteristics. The residents of Hermosa Beach have expressed a strong desire to retain the character of their residential neighborhoods and similarly expressed interest in enhancing local economic activity within commercial districts and corridors. This element attempts to identify those character defining features of each neighborhood, corridor, or district, and provide policy guidance that supports the intended character of each area and its role in the larger community fabric. The City's public spaces - its streets and streetscapes, parks, plazas, and public buildings - create much of its urban form. They also provide an important amenity for residents, workers, and visitors to socialize, recreate, rest, and gather. The City's public spaces are its public face, and are often the areas that visitors and residents most readily remember and associate with the city. Aside from parks and the beach, a large portion of the public realm in Hermosa Beach is in the form of streets and sidewalks. The character and appearance, or "the streetscape," defines the experience for those who use the street. This is especially true of pedestrians, for whom the level of safety, comfort, and aesthetic quality is a major attractor or detractor. In the commercial areas, most streets have interesting retail frontages along sidewalks, with amenities such as benches, landscaping, and street trees. Pier Avenue and Pier Plaza, in particular, have been enhanced with comprehensive streetscape upgrades. Additional areas throughout Hermosa Beach can benefit from targeted improvements to sidewalks, building frontages, signage, landscapes, and streets, which has been the subject of master plans for the Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard corridors. • • • Community -Serving Facilities There are certain types of uses, both public and private, that provide essential services to the community and are integrated into the form and function of every community. These community facilities include schools, medical facilities, and community arts or cultural educational centers. Many of these services are needed and used by Hermosa Beach residents, and supported by City funding or local property taxes, even though not all services are within Hermosa Beach. Health and Medical Facilities While there are no hospitals or emergency medical facilities located within Hermosa Beach, the City and its residents are served by Torrance Memorial Medical Center and medical facilities co -located at the Beach Cities Health District offices. These are the hospitals closest to Hermosa Beach. Child Care Facilities Child care facilities are also needed to serve residents as the family population increases. Similar to hospital and medical facilities, the City does not have discretionary authority over these facilities, but does identify through land use and zoning, which areas of the city are appropriate to allow these facilities and what conditions, if any, may be placed on these facilities to ensure they are compatible with surrounding uses. These facilities are required to be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Schools The Hermosa Beach City School District (HBCSD) provides elementary school (K-8) public education to students living in Hermosa Beach. For high school, students attend either Mira Costa High School or Redondo Union High School. There is one private elementary school, Our Lady of Guadalupe School, and one accredited, non-traditional private school for grades 6-12, Fusion Academy. With more than 1,400 students enrolled in 2015, and physical capacity (at State acceptable levels) to hold just 1,000 students, HBCSD has added portable classroom buildings and is using multi-purpose rooms for temporary classrooms, leading to fewer shared spaces. HBCSD has prepared a Long Range Facilities Master Plan and is evaluating options for providing additional classroom and recreational facility space. The City's role in school capacity planning is to ensure that development standards and other land use patterns do not constrain the District's ability to meet the growing capacity needs and to support expansion of shared use facilities such as fields and playgrounds to meet the community's recreational and physical activity needs. PLAN HERMOSA I 65 Coastal Priority Uses Coastal land in Hermosa Beach is a valued commodity because of its -1106 limited availability and high development pressure. Developing and implementing strategies that prioritize uses that maintain or enhance public coastal access while also meeting the needs and desires of local residents is necessary to maximize the potential of the coast and preserve character and quality of life. As shown in Figure 2.2, most of these uses are located in the Downtown or upper Pier Avenue areas. Existing Coastal -Dependent and Coastal -Related Uses Approximately 48 existing businesses in the Coastal Zone are considered either a coastal -dependent use or a coastal -related commercial use. Eight types of existing uses within the Coastal Zone qualify as coastal -dependent or coastal -related: • Businesses renting coastal recreation equipment to support surfing, biking, and paddle boarding: They sell, rent, and service equipment supporting coastal -dependent recreation uses. • Volleyball organizations operating administrative facilities: These operations provide services and equipment to support coastal -dependent beach volleyball uses. • Restaurants and bars located in Downtown and along lower Pier Avenue: Food service businesses in these areas serve visitors to the beach and rely on beach visitors for much of their revenue. Additionally, they rely on proximity to the beach for marketing purposes. • Surfboard manufacturing in the Cypress area. • Hotels located on The Strand, Pier Avenue, 14th Street, and 11th Street: As hotels almost exclusively serve visitors, there would be no guests without beach access. Most hotel sites use the "beach front lodging" and "ocean views" for their main advertising message. 66 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Figure 2.2 Coastal -Dependent Uses • ire 1. e so t.ODC foot Legend �.....�....,., a , Zone" threignetion IWO Mora* Mau 144.8 • Ms r , ca /.:4 0.0 a*w• Plea*, ( r,.m C Cl r roe. 27, it=�1 imu taw .e .ruM. �crM.wn : r aei..e.v.. •• ■ t.ka.a. e.dr * * •- Retail stores located in Downtown and along Pier Avenue. These shops sell souvenirs, beach clothing and accessories, and equipment such as bicycles and surfboards. They depend on tourism and provide services or merchandise related to the coast, and their viability is directly related to a location near the coast. Travel agencies that attract business based on their location in the Coastal Zone and provide services supporting coastal -dependent hotel and recreational uses. • The Starfish Learning Center provides childhood education on marine life and ecosystems. • Visitor -Serving Uses Hermosa Beach naturally draws a high number of annual visitors. Annual surveys conducted by Los Angeles County Ocean Lifeguards on the beach have established that close to 500,000 individuals visit the beach each month, rising to between 800,000 and 1.2 million visitors in summer months. Hundreds of businesses and facilities in Hermosa Beach serve the needs of visitors to the Coastal Zone. Some are located along the central portion of The Strand, in Pier Plaza, and along Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue. Businesses and facilities along upper Pier Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway also serve visitors. Local -Serving Commercial Uses Hermosa Beach community members have expressed a strong desire for more local -serving commercial uses. The requirement to prioritize coastal -dependent uses could conflict with this desire. Given the limited amount of land that can accommodate commercial use in Hermosa Beach, it is necessary to find a way to balance local -serving uses with coastal priority uses. Giving coastal -dependent uses priority in the Recreational Commercial land use designation while giving local -serving uses priority in the Community Commercial land use designation ensures that both needs are balanced effectively (See Figure 2.3). Affordable Accommodations A key provision of ensuring public access to the coast is the availability of affordable visitor - serving accommodations. The Coastal Act requires the City to establish what "lower cost" means in the context of accommodations available today or those proposed to be built or removed in the future. For the provision of lower cost accommodations, the threshold may differ significantly in various parts of the state. Hotels and motels may or may not be defined as lower cost, depending on various factors such as room rates, amenities, and overall quality. Most methods to define "lower cost" and "higher cost" accommodations involve surveys of room rates in the area compared to the statewide average. As of 2015, two hotels and one motel in the Coastal Zone offer a combined total of 264 rooms. A time-share property and youth hostel provide an additional 115 rooms in the Coastal Zone. Four additional hotels are located in Hermosa Beach outside the Coastal Zone, offering 325 rooms. These locations have an average high rate of $279 per night, and an average low rate of $202 per night, compared to a statewide average of $118 per night (2012). Peak summer season occupancy rates average around 85%. Campgrounds, cabins, cottages, yurts, and similar uses are by their nature usually lower cost. In Hermosa Beach, there is no land area large enough to accommodate these types of facilities, so they are not considered a significant source of lower cost accommodations. Due to the small number of and high demand for overnight accommodations in the Coastal Zone and their relatively high nightly room rates, the City should preserve the existing inventory of low cost rooms, while also developing off-site mitigation and in lieu fee options to provide for more visitor -serving accommodations. Energy Facilities Hermosa Beach currently has no energy facilities in the Coastal Zone. Following the 2015 defeat of Measure 0, which would have repealed a long- standing ban on oil drilling in the city, Coastal Act energy requirements apply only to the possibility of future renewable energy facilities in the Coastal Zone such as wind, solar, and wave power. It is the desire of the State of California, the Coastal Commission, and the City of Hermosa Beach to encourage the installation and use of renewable energy systems, and to remove obstacles to their installation, while minimizing potential impacts to wildlife, resources, and scenic quality. PLAN HERMOSA 67 Historic + Cultural Resources ;;; Protection of historic resources preserves Woi our cultural past and maintains Hermosa's identity. Some communities have 'marketed' these resources as an important part of their economic development programs. Property owners can be proud of their contribution and also obtain financial incentives. The City recognizes the benefits of protecting historical resources and acknowledges Hermosa Beach's cultural past as a significant characteristic of the city's identity. In 2003, three structures were designated for protection under the City's Historical Resources Preservation Ordinance: the Bijou Theater building, Bank of America building, and the Community Center. The City's Historic Resources Preservation Ordinance in Municipal Code Chapter 17.53 is intended to identify and ensure the long-term protection and use of historic resources, such as ((E[ff[EEii la' fit `wriw•µiuw�nmamiu..unniuiduu.u`[+..niil buildings and structures, sites and places within the city that reflect special elements of the city's architectural, artistic, cultural, historical, political, and social heritage. Through the efforts of the Hermosa Beach Historical Society, community members have acquired, preserved, and interpreted historical memorabilia associated with the city's history. The items are on display at the Community Center and are free to the public to view. The mission of the Hermosa Beach Historical Society is to acquire, preserve, interpret historical memorabilia, and other materials pertaining to the history of Hermosa Beach. This collection shall be extended to the public as a source of delight illumination, and lifelong learning. If successful, preservation will be better integrated into City procedures and interdepartmental decisions. Former Bijou Theater , {{1{1{1{1{1 • i �:dli! l:.i 1-11r14- „ 1 1;1,1( r1oval • Public Art + Design • • The City of Hermosa Beach's artistic past has shaped its vision and guiding principles for the future, and continues to resonate today. Public art includes artwork placed and integrated into the public realm for the community to enjoy. They provide both aesthetic and practical purposes that enhance community character and shapes identity. The public art and design in Hermosa Beach is a true reflection of the City's name, "Hermosa", meaning "beautiful" in Spanish. Since incorporation in 1907, the city has evolved into a vibrant and distinct beach community. The prevalence of public art and festivals contribute to the "funky" and "eclectic" character. Public art and design has played a large role in shaping the city's identity and is appreciated by residents and visitors alike. Public art displays in Hermosa Beach often help to share the rich cultural history of the town in the form of sculptures, murals, and placards or informational displays. These more permanent and highly visible displays - such as the many murals adorning previously blank walls throughout Downtown - contribute to the beautification and aesthetic value of the community and are the result of cooperation, dedication, and commitment from many volunteers, donors, and community groups. Community memorials such as the Veterans Memorial, Greg Jarvis Memorial, and 9/11 Memorial seek to recognize and honor members of the community through symbolic art and design. Temporary displays of art - such as the Portraits of Hope painting of Lifeguard Towers up and down LA County Beaches - can serve multiple community fundraising, awareness, and beautification purposes. These became permanent art fixtures in the community. Fiesta Hermosa, hosted by the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce, and the Hermosa Beach Fine Arts Festival are important events for local artists to showcase their work and help to connect the broader community with art. The artistic culture in Hermosa Beach is more than the presence of paintings and sculptures in public places. The culture comes from the community groups, social events, and the larger community that participates in and values the intrinsic beauty of public art and creative artistic expression. Nonprofits like the Hermosa Arts Foundation and the Hermosa Beach Murals Project are examples of community organizations created specifically to enhance the role of public art in Hermosa Beach. Hermosa Beach Arts Foundation The Hermosa Beach Arts Foundation is a non- profit organization, focused on creating opportunities for the community and organizations to participate in and celebrate the arts. Hermosa Beach Murals Project The Hermosa Beach Murals Project uses the professional work of talented artists to beautify buildings throughout the city. Murals displaying Hermosa Beach's rich history and beach culture are showcased bringing community members and visitors from all around to see them. The murals have become a destination point in the city and have educated the community while preserving its unique charm. Fine Arts Festival The Fine Arts Festival is an annual event that takes place in Hermosa Beach. Founded in 2002, this non-profit organization was created to promote art education and appreciation in the city. The festival provides members of the community to showcase their talents while supporting public art projects and art education for Hermosa Beach residents and schools. Creative Economy While public art is often viewed as primarily serving aesthetic and beautification purposes, it can also support economic vitality and help to provide a diverse workforce. In Hermosa Beach, the artistic community is deeply rooted in beach and surf culture, with many of the most prominent surfboard shapers of the last fifty years - including the likes of Hap Jacobs, Greg Noll, Bing Copland, Dewey Weber, Wayne Miyata, Donald Takayama and Phil Becker - setting up shop along Cypress Avenue. Artists, like many business sectors, need space to create their art and venues or opportunities to sell their work and can benefit from proximity to one another. To encourage increased artistic activity and support economic development objectives, Hermosa Beach can ensure the space needed to support this industry is provided in an accessible and affordable manner that allows higher levels of collaboration among artists - all essential ingredients to flourishing creative communities. PLAN HERMOSA 1 69 Wide sidewalks and enhanced streetscape along Pier Avenue Land Use + Community Character Strategy The following narrative describes the intended land use and community character of Hermosa Beach. There are four primary characteristics — referred to as the 4 D's - that influence the form and function of the built environment — the destinations or uses, density/intensity of each use, the diversity of uses within a given area, and the design of the buildings and streets. Destinations or uses define the types of uses that are encouraged, discouraged, or prohibited on a piece of land. Destinations are split into residential, commercial, creative, and institutional uses. The land use designations form all other aspects of the 4D's. Density and intensity are a measure of the amount of land area compared to building area. Density, used for residential property, expresses the amount of land developed per residential dwelling unit. Intensity is used for nonresidential uses, and is expressed as a floor area ratio (FAR) which calculates the amount of usable floor area permitted in a building compared to the area of the lot on which the building stands. 70 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Diversity or mix of uses articulate whether an area is comprised of a predominant type of use (i.e. residential) or whether a wide range of uses are provided to create a mix of activities. How the different uses are physically arranged is also described to highlight complementary uses. Design of the built environment addresses the desired form and character of the buildings and streets within a particular area and includes: the scale, massing, building orientation, and interaction of buildings with the public realm (sidewalks, streetscape, and street network). • • The types of destinations or uses and density/ intensity are articulated through the land use designations assigned to each parcel. Land use designations are policy statements providing direction to each individual property owner regarding what uses and densities/intensities are allowed. The diversity of uses and the design characteristics of buildings and streets are defined within each character area. Character areas define the set of guidelines or parameters the City will use to ensure redevelopment or new projects are compatible with its surroundings. Together, the land use designations and character areas are foundational components to this Plan, with the goals and policies found throughout other elements organized to achieve the intended land use and character strategy. Land Use Designations Land use designations indicate the 41.' intended use of each parcel of land in the city. They are developed to provide both a vision of the organization of uses in the city and a flexible structure to allow for changes in economic conditions and community visions. The overall distribution of land uses throughout the city is identified in Figure 2.3, with each designation defined and described in further detail in Table 2.1. There are four categories of land use designations that can be found in Hermosa Beach: residential, commercial, creative industrial, and institutional. Zoning Districts Zoning districts are an implementation mechanism of the land use designations, and provide greater details regarding: specific allowances and prohibitions of uses, dimensional requirements such as building setbacks, parking standards, and building heights. Land use designations and zoning districts must be compatible, but need not be exactly the same. Zoning districts must be within the range of the allowed intensity and uses found in this Plan. Residential Residential designations range in scale and density throughout the city to define and create a variety of residential neighborhoods. Allowable densities range from a low of two units per acre, up to a maximum of 33 units per acre, with density ranges spread across low, medium, and high density designations. Commercial Commercial designations provide for a wide variety of retail, restaurant, office, and other uses that provide goods or services. Commercial designations are organized based on the scale and type of goods or services provided. The most localized designations are intended to serve a neighborhood and residents within the immediate vicinity, while other commercial designations are intended to serve the entire community or the region. Creative Creative land use designations are intended to provide space for production, design, and manufacturing uses that support the local employment base and produce goods and services that enhance the brand of Hermosa Beach as a creative and innovative community. Uses that are considered light industrial are to be designed and sited in a manner that ensures their compatibility with surrounding uses. Institutional Institutional uses offer a range of public and community -oriented uses such as schools, parks, community facilities, administrative offices or buildings, and space for essential services and utility needs. Institutional uses also vary in scale from parkettes at a few thousand square feet to the beach, which includes approximately 63 acres of land area. PLAN HERMOSA I 71 Figure 2.3 Land Use Designations Map EtZe Vcr hermosa beach land use designations in E E E' 8 low density a:.M medium density high density Umobile home neighborhood community recreational gateway 0 service 1411- St t ®hct[I Ott.' 4C �.... ! .St \ ,ria n i'-- -1 8th St.� • rj light industrial U • public facility Q open space. C beach .2 _] city limits g ; coastal zone rw Ltir%t....-=-------_-----_-_,=—.:t.::=7=-7,-----,--,----- .S.,L. 400' BOO �• 2" 72 41) Table 2.1 Land Use Designations • ,�, ,,� x '. Designation �� , , . � �� hi � jr ' t. Low Density a ,� AA ., . M.. +'A fM'4S a � L�� , "' F" k � ' Definition *� fi,. r t, w u° t„�� A.P r . &r , t 7 us C��i..4a .. �,�a v�1� Single-family residential (attached or detached) :. _...,,,,,, ..,-, M b��'.. r i {y ensity/ � - a: Intensity" �Y a4. ,. 2.0 - 13.0 DU/AC 1 Medium Density Single-family residential and small-scale multi -family residential (duplex, triplex, condominium) 13.1 - 25.0 DU/AC High Density Medium (8-20 unit buildings) and Targe -scale (20+ unit buildings) multi -family residential 25.1 - 33.0 DU/AC Mobile Home Mobile home parks, where lots are owned, rented or leased to accommodate mobile homes for human habitation 2.0 - 13.0 DU/AC Neighborhood Convenience stores, markets, eateries, Laundromats, or similar uses to primarily serve local walk-in traffic 0.5 - 1.0 FAR 8)Locally-oriented Community uses including retail stores, restaurants, professional and medical offices, and personal services 0.5 -1.25 FAR RC- Recreational Coastal related uses such as beach/bike rentals, restaurants, snack shops, retail, lodging accommodations, entertainment and similar uses 1.0 - 1.75 FAR GSC Gateway Lower floor community or regionally -oriented commercial uses with upper floor high -visitor office uses or hotel uses 1.0 - 2.0 FAR SC Service Home improvement stores, furniture stores, auto dealerships, and Tight automotive service stations 0.25 - 0.5 FAR Ci Light Industrial Production uses for light manufacturing, creative art, or design services with professional office as an allowed accessory use 0.25 - 1.0 FAR PF µ Public Facility Civic -related offices, community centers, operational facilities and educational/institutional facilities 0.10 -1.0 FAR OS Open Space Passive and active park, recreational, open space uses and educational/institutional facilities 0.0 - 0.5 FAR Beach Coastal -related recreational activities and essential public facilities (lifeguard tower/restrooms) 0.0 - 0.05 FAR • • • Density: Density is often the primary determinant in the physical layout and appearance of residential development in relationship to the land. It will influence the housing type and perhaps the style. Densities are calculated in dwelling units per acre (du/ac), and can range from 2 du/ac for a larger lot to 33 du/ac for an urban dwelling. Intensity: Intensity for nonresidential properties is expressed in terms of the floor area ratio (FAR). The FAR expresses the relationship between the amount of usable floor area permitted in a building and the area of the lot on which the building stands. It is obtained by dividing the gross floor area of a building by the total area of the lot and is often represented as a decimal number. • • PLAN HERMOSA I 73 Land Use Descriptions This section describes the purpose of each land use and articulates the uses and range of development intensity allowed in each designation. Residential Uses bermosobeoch i land osedesignstlons 74 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Low Density Residential (LD) Purpose This designation provides for the retention, maintenance, and investment in single-family residential neighborhoods and protects residential uses from potential nuisances of nonresidential uses. This low density designation is intended to provide the lowest levels of density, offer a high quality environment for family life, and ensure the preservation of residential property values. Appropriate Land Uses Single-family dwellings, either attached or detached, are the primary use in the low density residential designation. These uses can include home occupations, churches, schools, day cares, parks, public facilities, and other uses that are determined to be compatible and oriented towards serving the needs of low density neighborhoods may also be allowed. Density Range 2.0 - 13 dwelling units per acre Medium Density Residential (MD) Purpose The purpose of this designation is to provide for the enhancement and reinvestment in mixed scale residential neighborhoods in Hermosa Beach. This medium density residential designation permits property owners to construct two residential units on a single lot. It is located throughout the city to provide a transition between higher density residential or commercial uses and single-family neighborhoods. Appropriate Land Uses Small-scale residential uses, including single- family, duplex, condominiums, and townhouses in a two unit per lot format, are the predominant use in this designation. Education, cultural, and public assembly uses which are determined to be compatible with and oriented towards serving the needs of the neighborhood may also be allowed. Density. Range 13.1 - 25 dwelling units per acre • High Density Residential (HD) Purpose The high density residential designation provides a range of residential housing types to serve the varying living accommodation needs or desires of the community. The intent of this designation is to preserve and contribute to the inventory of diverse housing types available to residents and offer alternatives to single-family residential development. The designation allows for a variety of high density building types and development patterns. Appropriate Land Uses This designation provides a range of residential building formats including condominiums, townhouses, duplex/triplex, and apartment buildings. Single-family residential is discouraged in this designation. If lot size permits, special care living facilities and multi -family housing provided in larger building styles with on-site parking and amenities is allowed. Density Range . 25.1 - 33.0 dwelling units per acre Mobile Home (MH) Purpose The Mobile Home designation is intended to retain land area for the sole use of mobile homes and recreational vehicles without threat of other residential and commercial encroachment. The designation specifically applies to the Marine Land Mobile Home Park to retain mobile homes as an affordable housing option. Appropriate Land Uses Mobile home parks, where lots are owned, rented or leased to accommodate mobile homes for human habitation. Manufactured homes without permanent foundation and recreational vehicles intended as a transitional housing option are allowed in this designation. Density Range 2.0 - 13 dwelling units per acre • Commercial Uses ; hermoso beach land use designatlocs Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Purpose This designation creates neighborhood activity centers that are easily accessible from many directions, typically along main thoroughfares, and primarily serve residents within a half -mile radius so they may walk, bike, or make a short trip by car. Neighborhood commercial uses located in close proximity to the beach also serve as a location for beachgoers to purchase food, rent equipment, and enhance their beach experience. Appropriate Land Uses The neighborhood commercial designation provides nearby residents with convenient access to daily shopping or personal service needs. Convenience stores, eateries, laundromats, and similar uses intended to serve local walk-in traffic and nearby residents are the primary uses allowed. Neighborhood commercial designations located within the Coastal Zone may also be used to provide coastal -dependent uses such as beach equipment rentals. Intensity Range 0.5 -1.0 Floor Area Ratio PLAN HERMOSA I 75 Community Commercial (CC) Purpose This designation provides opportunities and locations for uses designed to serve the shopping, dining, and employment desires of the entire community. The Community Commercial designation is a major generator of local economic activity with a mix of locally -owned businesses and regional or national retailers present within this designation. This designation is found in many centralized locations throughout the community primarily along the city's major corridors and in Downtown. Community Commercial land uses primarily serve the local market, though they may also serve the needs of visitors and residents of nearby jurisdictions. Appropriate Land Uses This designation provides space for locally oriented commercial uses including retail stores, restaurants, professional and medical offices, and personal services. Uses on the ground floor are reserved for retail, restaurant, and other sales -tax revenue generating uses, while offices and personal service uses are encouraged on upper floors. Residential uses are not allowed in this designation as its intent is to promote and protect retail, office, and service uses that diversify the City's tax base. Intensity Range 0.5 - 1.25 Floor Area Ratio Recreational Commercial (RC) Purpose As a premiere southern California coastal destination, Hermosa Beach has the luxury of offering a wide variety of recreational and coastal - related services to serve both visitors and residents. The Recreational Commercial designation is the primary cultural and entertainment center for the community with events, activities, and social gatherings often occurring here. Adjacency to the beach gives this designation the unique opportunity to provide a shopping and dining experience that attracts residents and visitors alike, capturing a large portion of the City's economic activity generated by visitors. 76 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Appropriate Land Uses Coastal -related uses and visitor accommodations are the primary uses allowed within the Recreational Commercial designation. Restaurants, snack shops, entertainment, lodging, retail, beach rentals and other similar uses are prioritized within this designation and allowed on ground or upper floors. Office and personal service uses are allowed within this designation, provided they are located on upper floors. Intensity Range 1.0 - 1.75 Floor Area Ratio Gateway Commercial (GC) Purpose The Gateway Commercial designation is located at key entryways and intersections to Hermosa Beach to offer a greater variety of employment, retail, and economic activity to the community. The Gateway Commercial designation also plays a role in providing services and amenities to visitors and the region by encouraging hotels and larger employment centers to be located in this area. With the Gateway Commercial designation appropriately applied to larger sites, they are intended to provide both commercial services as well as facilities that benefit the local community. Appropriate Land Uses In the Gateway Commercial designation, the ground floor should include community or regionally -oriented retail uses with upper floor high visitor office uses. Professional and medical offices and hotels providing lower cost visitor accommodations are also allowed in this designation. Public assembly, recreational, and other community facilities which are determined to be compatible with and oriented towards enhancing the gateway commercial district may also be allowed. Parking facilities will serve on- site uses and are encouraged to explore shared parking agreements with nearby commercial uses to encourage a 'park once' strategy. Intensity Range 1.0 - 2.0 Floor Area Ratio • Service Commercial (SC) Purpose The Service Commercial designation is intended to provide adequate space specifically for specialty goods and services that serve residents and the region. These businesses often require indoor or outdoor warehousing or storage space to display or sell their inventory, and caution is taken to ensure they are located in a manner that minimizes their impact on nearby residential, retail, or office uses. Service Commercial uses often attract customers for a specific item or service, compared to a traditional retail district where customers may visit many businesses within a single trip. Appropriate Land Uses The Service Commercial designation is reserved for the provision of specialty goods and services, primarily related to home and automotive needs. Home improvement stores, furniture stores, auto dealerships, and light automotive service stations are the prioritized use with this designation. Retail trade and warehousing facilities are allowed as an accessory use to the primary use. Intensity Range 0.25 - 0.50 Floor Area Ratio Creative Uses hermosa beach land nu designations tai Creative Light Industrial (CI) Purpose The creative light industrial designation is intended to create a suitable environment for small businesses that rely on manufacturing, warehousing, or production to operate successfully. This designation ensures uses are able to operate in a manner that contributes to local economic activity and diversifies the local employment base while minimizing impacts to adjacent residential uses. The designation fosters new innovations and creative economic activity by providing common gathering areas and meeting spaces to share and exchange ideas. Appropriate Land Uses This designation is reserved for the provision of production uses for light manufacturing, creative art, or design services. Flexible use spaces, co - working offices, and creative or "maker" industry incubator spaces are also permitted. Professional office or specialty retail are allowed only as an accessory use to the primary production uses. Residential uses are not allowed in this designation as its intent is to promote and protect industry and production uses that diversify the City's tax base. Intensity Range 0.5 -1.0 Floor Area Ratio PLAN HERMOSA I 77 Institutional Uses bermes° beach land use designalioes Public Facilities (PF) Purpose The Public Facilities designation is intended to assure the City and other institutional organizations have adequate space to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the organization. The Public Facilities designation applies to both public and quasi -public uses and may include physical facilities or infrastructure related equipment or structures needed to provide services. Appropriate Land Uses Civic -related administrative offices, community space, operational yards, and educational or institutional facilities are the primary uses allowed in this designation. Public utility structures or corridors, plazas, and historic landmarks or monuments are also allowed within this designation. Wireless telecommunications facilities may be allowed in this designation when co -located with public buildings and determined to be compatible with and avoid nuisances to surrounding uses. Intensity Range 0.1 -1.0 Floor Area Ratio 78 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Open Space (OS) Purpose The Open Space designation is intended to prohibit intensive urban development to those open space areas of the city which are necessary to assure permanent open space in and for public parks and recreation areas; and where urban development would be put at risk from natural hazards. This designation provides for public and community -serving facilities ranging in scale from a few thousand square feet to several acres of land. Appropriate Land Uses Public parks in any size or format are the primary use in this designation. Trails, community gardens, and other similar uses that provide open space resources to surrounding neighborhoods and the region are permitted. Educational buildings and associated facilities to facilitate student learning and activities are allowed in this designation. Recreation facilities with an emphasis on outdoor use are also allowed. Intensity Range 0.0 - 0.5 Floor Area Ratio City Beach (B) Purpose The beach offers exceptional natural beauty, provides for unique recreational activities, offers panoramic views, and is accessible to everyone. These elements combine to create an unrivaled natural asset that is cherished by the community and essential to the local beach culture. This designation is created to protect the recreational, aesthetic, and natural values of the beach. This designation is intended to prohibit any permanent buildings or structures beyond those for lifeguard and infrastructure, and minimize the amount of space used by temporary structures or equipment. Appropriate Land Uses This designation provides for coastal activities and events along the sandy shoreline. The provision of permanent or temporary structures, including the pier, is allowed on the beach only as they are essential to the safe operation and enjoyment of the beach. Infrastructure or amenities such as restrooms, playgrounds, stormwater drainages are allowed provided they do not create visual obstructions or impede recreational activities. Intensity Range 0.0 - 0.05 Floor Area Ratio • • Character Areas While Hermosa Beach largely identifies as a close-knit and unified community, the unique and eclectic character of Hermosa Beach is a direct result of the distinct collection of neighborhoods and commercial areas that make up the fabric of the community. To ensure this unique character is protected for future generations, it is important to define and describe the unique characteristics of each area and establish goals and policies to maintain, enhance, and transform each area. A community's character can be defined by the distinctive or unique physical features, or attributes (i.e. hilly, small buildings, wide sidewalks) as well as the social characteristics that are influenced by physical characteristics (i.e. pedestrian -oriented, kid -friendly, safe and comfortable). Since the character defining features of Hermosa Beach vary by area, this section organizes the community by neighborhood, district, or corridor (see Figure 2.4). The discussion associated with each character area is intended to describe the future vision and articulate the proposed distribution of uses and design for the built environment. How does this relate to Zoning? The Zoning Code will incorporate the specific development standards and uses allowed within each zoning district by combining guidance from the following components of the General Plan: Land Use Designation The particular land use designation on a parcel identifies the allowable uses and the appropriate range of density or intensity of development allowed. Character Area The character area will provide guidance on how buildings should be oriented and interact with the public realm or streetscape to encourage a cohesive and coordinated urban realm for each area. Goals and Policies The goals and policies should be consulted for further guidance on how to integrate new projects into the existing urban fabric. When developing new programs or submitting applications for development this section should be referenced to ensure projects are consistent and compatible with the character of the area. Neighborhoods The residential structure of Hermosa Beach is made up of individual neighborhoods whose boundaries are generally defined by their development pattern. Some neighborhoods, like the North End, developed as distinct communities, while others, like the Valley neighborhood, developed incrementally over time. Each neighborhood offers a different mix of housing types, with some neighborhoods providing exclusively single-family residential uses, and others providing a variety of housing types, often with single- and multi -family buildings coexisting on the same block. Many neighborhoods also offer commercial uses to serve the neighborhood needs. There are a multitude of neighborhoods present in Hermosa Beach including the North End, Hermosa View, the Walk Streets, Sand Section, Valley, Herondo, Greenbelt, Hermosa Hills, and Eastside. Districts There are a number of activity centers with clusters of similar activities or uses - located in close proximity to one another found in Hermosa Beach. Some districts provide a single type of use, while others require a diverse mix of uses to be economically successful. These districts function as destinations or focal points in the city, and are important places to encourage pedestrian activity and cluster particular land uses. The three districts in Hermosa Beach include the Civic Center, Downtown, and the Cypress area. Corridors Arterial roads and other high activity areas laid out in a linear format are another area in which commercial activity occurs. While occurring over a large length of space, many corridors include a series of nodes with activities to avoid a commercial strip pattern of development. The two key commercial corridors in Hermosa Beach are the Aviation Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway corridors. PLAN HERMOSA I 79 Figure 2.4 Hermosa Beach Neighborhoods, Corridors, and Districts Map i l' 8th St-' hermosa beach character areas co north end hermosa view . walk street .01 sand section volley herondo greenbelt [ hermosa hills eostside downtown • . civic center Ecypress ■aviation c0 pacific coast highway CA"- "t . 2 _'j city limits o � coastal zone 0 . 446' 800' 0+ �w 2" * Open Space is located throughout select neighborhoods, corridors, and districts. 80 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • North End Neighborhood The North End will be retained as a well-defined neighborhood with a range of low- and medium- density residential development with centralized neighborhood commercial goods and services. Future Vision The intent is to preserve building form and scale and maintain neighborhood connectivity and access to nearby commercial services. Buildings should orient toward the walk streets to create a similar -scale and orientation of buildings for compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. The street frontages from driveways and curb cuts should be preserved to maintain the walkable qualities offered by the compact grid network of this neighborhood. Intended Distribution of Land Uses This neighborhood will be comprised of a combination of single- family and multi -family dwellings, with neighborhood commercial uses nearby. !AO Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Single-family residences, duplexes, and townhouses are the preferred residential types. • Buildings should have a primary entrance onto the numbered streets, and are encouraged to have a secondary entrance on perpendicular streets. • Front and side setbacks may be fairly narrow, with many building frontages within 10 feet of the sidewalk. • Front porches, stoops, balconies, and terraces provide a sense of "outdoor public living". • Public views toward the beach are treasured. Public Realm Design Residential parking is mostly accessed off alleys, which supports frontages that are pedestrian -oriented and active. It is acceptable for residences to "turn their backs" toward Valley Drive, installing fences or shrubbery as needed. Sidewalks are provided on all collector streets, and where right-of-way width allows, sidewalks are separated from the street by parkways and planting strips. To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form and scale and maintain neighborhood connectivity and access to nearby commercial services. Walkstreets area unique feature on portions of 30th and 31st Streets. PLAN HERMOSA I 81 To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form, orientation or scale and retain the unique streetscape with wide parkways and uninterrupted sidewalks. Hermosa View Neighborhood This neighborhood is perched high upon a hill, with a dramatic rise in slope moving north from Gould Avenue, creating a separate, distinct single-family residential enclave. Future Vision The intent is to preserve building form, orientation or scale, and retain the unique streetscape with wide parkways and uninterrupted sidewalks. The low-density residential development pattern of this neighborhood should be maintained through the retention of larger lot sizes, building orientation toward the street, -- and wider setbacks that provide room for parkways and sidewalks. L ;'. Intended Distribution of Land Uses This neighborhood is exclusively residential with a predominance of single-family homes, and a few properties with two units per lot. ), Desired Form and Character q..p. 1... Building Design and Orientation Wide planter strips separate the sidewalk and street. 82 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • Within the northern area buildings should be mostly long and narrow, responding to the parcel configuration. • Single-family residences, duplexes, and townhouses are the preferred residential types. • Residences should address the street with their primary fagade, with minimal front setbacks, and typically do not exceed two stories. • The hilly residential neighborhood with larger parcels provide a variety of architectural styles and building types. • Houses on lots greater than 5,000 square feet may be allowed to have setbacks at considerable distance from the street in a more typical "suburban" pattern. Public Realm Design • Most homes along Longfellow Avenue are served by alleyways at the back of the property, providing garage access and leaving sidewalks along Longfellow Avenue uninterrupted by driveway aprons and curb cuts. • Local streets at the south end of this neighborhood terminate at a cul-de-sac or dead end. Longfellow Avenue has a unique streetscape quality within this neighborhood, with wider well -kept planter strips and tall palm trees. • • Walk Street Neighborhood The Walk Street neighborhood currently provides a range of beach side residential development and neighborhood commercial services within a linear street network. The walk streets that provide beach access from Hermosa Avenue out to The Strand are a feature unique to this beach front residential area. Future Vision The intent is to maintain the high quality pedestrian connections through the walk streets and retain the form, scale, and orientation of buildings in this area by designing buildings that take advantage of the opportunities for outdoor living. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The walk street neighborhood will offer a range of low, medium, and high density residential uses as well as small pockets of neighborhood -scale commercial services around 1st Street, 4th Street, and 22nd Street. (i Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • This beach front area provides a variety of building formats and architectural styles. • Properties with frontage along The Strand are afforded sweeping ocean views, generally orienting buildings and organizing living spaces to take advantage of those views. • Most parcels have access on both a walk street and an alleyway. Buildings are designed with porches, patios, or decks oriented toward walk streets or The Strand and parking is provided in tuck -under garages through alleyways. Public Realm Design • Walk streets provide the community with safe and easy pedestrian access to The Strand and the beach. • Hermosa Avenue provides a continuous vehicle route, running the length of the city, while The Strand, and sidewalks along Hermosa Avenue provide similar levels of uninterrupted paths to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non -motorized travel. • Right-of-way easements along walk streets and requirements to keep walls and fences low serve a dual purpose of protecting views and providing outdoor patio or porch space. To achieve the intent, the City should maintain the high quality pedestrian connections through the walk streets and retain the form, scale, and orientation of buildings in this area. ioavd rre 1110.1111001 Walk streets provide safe and easy pedestrian access to the beach. PLAN HERMOSA I 83 To achieve the intent, the City should enhance multi- modal connectivity and access while preserving the building form, scale, and orientation in this neighborhood. Mixture of housing types with unique charm. 84 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Sand Section Neighborhood Today, the Sand Section neighborhood accommodates a range of residential development types, with neighborhood commercial services. The abundance of small, pedestrian -friendly blocks give this area its charm and intimate sense of community. Future Vision The intent is to enhance multi -modal connectivity and access while preserving the building form, scale, and orientation in this neighborhood. Through new multi -modal connections, convenient access to community parks and the Greenbelt is provided and helps to maintain the compact urban format and highly connected street network of this neighborhood. Intended Distribution of Land Uses It is appropriate to have small-scale apartments adjacent to single-family homes in this area - an integrated mixture of housing types is what defines the identity of the Sand Section. @ 6.1 Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Flat, box -like front fagades are discouraged in favor of greater articulation. • Garages and parking are typically accessed through alleyways or driveways that extend behind buildings. • This area includes prevailing setback requirements for front, side, and rear setbacks that vary from block to block, but provide consistency within each block. Public Realm Design • Monterey Boulevard is a multi -modal street that permits neighborhood residents to move through the area easily on any means of transportation they choose. • Sidewalks are provided on all collector streets and are wider along main thoroughfares such as Hermosa Avenue. • The rear -accessed parking minimizes curb cuts on the street, helping to maintain the public parking supply, as well as the integrity of the sidewalks and the pedestrian environment. • Bicycle boulevards are abundant in this neighborhood, providing convenient east -west access to the beach, with safe and controlled crossing at intersections along Hermosa Avenue. • Valley Neighborhood The Valley Neighborhood includes low density, single- family homes between key community facilities. The average density for this area is roughly 10 dwelling units per acre, with parcel sizes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet. The Valley Greenbelt runs the length of this area and Valley School and Valley Park are beneficial amenities to residents in this neighborhood. Future Vision The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares that enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single- family development pattern of this area. Buildings should retain larger setbacks and lower scale and massing, and new sidewalks should be added to contribute to a complete pedestrian network. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The Valley area is almost exclusively one to two-story single-family homes, with multi -family condo developments next to Valley Park. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Ranch style houses and other similar lower -profile architectural styles are common in this area due to larger lot sizes and the flat topography. • Due to larger parcel size, fences and/or landscaping in front of residences are prevalent throughout and front setbacks are larger than most other areas of the city. • Garages that are visible from the street should not dominate front facades, and any new construction or renovation should strive to minimize their prominence. Public Realm Design • While many streets in this neighborhood have historically had intermittent sidewalks or no sidewalks at all, sidewalks should be added over time in key locations to facilitate greater pedestrian safety and connections. • Access to the Valley Greenbelt and safety for children walking or biking to school from this neighborhood should be enhanced through pedestrian crossing improvements. • Greater east -west connections for bicyclists and pedestrians are provided with multiple high priority walking and biking streets needed to connect this neighborhood with other areas. • Traffic calming and safety techniques are employed to minimize nuisances from higher volume traffic thoroughfares. To achieve the intent, the City should improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single-family development pattern of this area. anpi--.-�� Traditional ranch style architecture appear in.:this neighborhood." PLAN HERMOSA 1 85 To achieve the intent, the City should preserve the scale and building form of this neighborhood and maintain connections and access to nearby amenities. Multi -family housing with ample lawn space. 86 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Herondo Neighborhood The Herondo Neighborhood currently accommodates the city's higher density and larger format residential development. Multiple connections to nearby neighborhoods, community parks, and the Greenbelt are provided throughout Herondo Neighborhood. Future Vision The intent is to preserve the scale and building form of this neighborhood and maintain connections and access to nearby amenities. To ensure a diverse range of housing formats and building types, this area will be protected for larger format apartment complexes and townhouses. Permeability through the large apartment blocks should continue to be improved, allowing residents to walk to the Greenbelt and the beach. Intended Distribution of Land Uses This area will retain higher density residential development patterns. Along Monterey Boulevard, multi -family housing coexists with townhouses and duplexes. .wl� a OS•. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Condominium and apartment building styles are common in this area, with larger building types than most neighborhoods. • Most buildings are three stories tall, and are oriented towards the street, with primary entrances to apartments connected directly to the sidewalk. • Parking access is provided internal to blocks, along alleys or underground in order to reduce curb cuts and disruptions to the pedestrian realm. Public Realm Design • Block sizes are larger than elsewhere in the city. Front setbacks are moderate, allowing space for well maintained public frontages with ample lawns and landscaping. • Low fences should be permitted, but walling off apartments or condominium complexes from the street is discouraged. Second Avenue and Herondo Street provide the quickest access to Pacific Coast Highway and other surroundings areas for all transportation modes. • The facilities and field at South Park are a source of recreation and leisure for residents, and many building complexes provide additional recreational amenities and open space on- site to serve residents of each complex. Greenbelt Neighborhood The Greenbelt Neighborhood offers a range of small scale residential development types and provides nearby access to commercial services along Pacific Coast Highway. Single-family homes and duplexes currently coexist side by side. Future Vision The intent is to maintain the building scale and form of this neighborhood, while enhancing access to local neighborhood serving commercial uses. Neighborhood commercial uses and amenities should be added to serve the needs of nearby residents. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The Greenbelt residential neighborhood includes low- and medium -density residential uses located between the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt towards Pacific Coast Highway. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Most lots in this neighborhood range from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet. • Setbacks are generally smaller in this area than the predominantly single-family neighborhoods. • Designing two to four unit complexes to resemble single-family homes with articulation and separate entrances is desirable. • This area is similar to the Sand Section in that it contains a diversity of residential typologies on small, regularly shaped parcels. The difference is the absence of alleys, which leads to a greater need for garages to be located on front facades. Public Realm Design • There should be successful transitions between residential uses and adjacent retail/service uses on Pacific Coast Highway. • Greater east -west connections for bicyclists and pedestrians should be provided with high priority walking and biking streets needed to connect this neighborhood with other areas. • The design and orientation of buildings in this neighborhood vary due to the sloped nature of the lots. • To achieve the intent, the City should maintain the building scale and form of this neighborhood, while enhancing access to local neighborhood serving commercial uses. Multi -unit residential building with separate patios and entrances. PLAN HERMOSA I 87 The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single-family development pattern of this area. Landscaping and medians provide shade to pedestrians. 88 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Hermosa Hills Neighborhood The Hermosa Hills area transitions from high- and medium- density uses adjacent to PCH and lower density single-family uses closer to Prospect Avenue. House forms are generally small in this area, with small to moderate front and side setbacks, and many streets are closed to through traffic next to PCH. Future Vision The intent is to improve key pedestrian thoroughfares to enhance connectivity and access while preserving the single- family development pattern of this area. Many streets in this neighborhood should be enhanced with new sidewalks to create a complete pedestrian network. Intended Distribution of Land Uses Though most buildings are predominantly one or two-story single- family structures, duplexes and a few mid-size apartment buildings back onto commercial properties along Pacific Coast Highway. CA' ® OS Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Garages, while visible from the street, should not dominate front facades, and any new construction or renovation should strive to minimize their prominence. • There are successful transitions between residential uses and adjacent retail/service uses on Pacific Coast Highway with several of the larger, deep lots located closest to PCH. Public Realm Design • Prospect Avenue is the primary arterial street connecting this neighborhood to the rest of the city. Prospect Avenue is also a major pedestrian passage, with a wide planting strip to buffer pedestrians from vehicle traffic. • The hillside area covers the residential portions of Hermosa Beach east of Pacific Coast Highway to the city boundary. Most streets in this area have a gentle upslope, encouraging homes to organize living space to include ocean views out over their neighbors. • Greater east -west connections for bicyclists and pedestrians are provided with multiple high priority walking and biking streets needed to connect this neighborhood with other areas. • • • Eastside Neighborhood The Eastside Neighborhood accommodates single-family residential development types and includes Hermosa View school and multiple neighborhood parks. In terms of street activity levels, this neighborhood is one of the quietest areas of the community. Future Vision The intent is to preserve building form, orientation and scale, and retain the quiet nature and unique streetscape of this area. Many streets in this neighborhood should be enhanced with new sidewalks to create a complete pedestrian network. Intended Distribution of Land Uses This neighborhood is one of the city's few areas that is almost exclusively comprised of single-family housing units. Parkettes and public facilities such as Hermosa View School and the original Prospect Avenue School Building are found in this neighborhood. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • House forms are generally small in this area, with small to moderate front and side setbacks. • Garages, while visible from the street, should not dominate front facades, and any new construction or renovation should strive to minimize their prominence. • Buildings are predominantly one or two story single-family structures, with a few condominium developments along Prospect Ave. Public Realm Design • Prospect Avenue is the primary arterial street connecting this neighborhood to the rest of the city. Prospect Avenue is also a major pedestrian passage, with a wide planting strip to buffer pedestrians from vehicle traffic. • Many of the local streets have vehicle barriers along Harper Avenue, discouraging cut -through traffic, but allowing for excellent pedestrian connectivity. • Most properties in this area have a gentle downslope, allowing for many homes to have views of the Pacific Ocean or Los Angeles Basin. • To achieve the intent, buildings should preserve form, orientation and scale and retain the quiet nature and unique streetscape of this area. Front yard with parking adjacent to'. the building. PLAN HERMOSA 1 89 To achieve the intent, buildings should enhance form and orientation and maintain the pedestrian realm along Pier Ave while transforming the realm on Hermosa Ave. Small plazas and parklets adjacent to street. 90 ( CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Downtown District :r The Downtown District is a primary social and aa; commercial activity center in Hermosa Beach, serving as a centralized location for social gatherings and the recreational activities of residents and visitors. Pier Plaza serves as a popular venue for outdoor events and dining, connecting Downtown to the beach, pier, and The Strand. The "pedestrian scramble" at the intersection of Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue is a unique pedestrian amenity that reinforces the pedestrian -oriented nature of Downtown. Future Vision The intent is to enhance the building form and orientation, and maintain the pedestrian realm along Pier Ave while transforming the realm on Hermosa Avenue. The Downtown District will continue to offer an array of uses for residents and visitors, and any new buildings should pay close attention to and contribute to the high quality pedestrian environment provided throughout Downtown. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The types of uses provide services and activities associated with the local beach culture to residents as well as visitors to the city. The mix of community and recreational uses serve a functional role in meeting the daily needs and activities of residents and visitors, and accommodate coastal -related recreation and commercial uses which serve the year-round needs of residents and visitors and are attractive and compatible with adjacent residential neighborhoods and commercial districts. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • First floor street front businesses should include retail, restaurants, and other sales tax -generating commercial uses to promote lively pedestrian activity on Downtown streets. • Development along Pier Avenue and Hermosa Avenue should conform to recommendations of the Downtown Revitalization Strategy to realize a town -scale Main Street environment that supports pedestrian activity and local serving commerce. • Many of the unique buildings, streetscape features, and public spaces are iconic or historic in nature, and new buildings should be carefully integrated to retain the town's eclectic charm. • • Buildings should be two to three stories in height, cover most or all of the parcel, and may abut neighboring structures. • Enhance the area's role as a visitor destination by facilitating the development of boutique hotels that provide specific benefits to the community. • Public and semi-public spaces should maximize views of the coastline and ocean. Public Realm Design The pedestrian orientation of Downtown streetscapes should be improved through provision of: • Special paving or signage at the Pier Ave/Hermosa Avenue intersection. • Additional palm trees on Hermosa Avenue to emphasize its importance and enhance the character of its streetscape. • Cafe and recessed outdoor seating opportunities. • Arts and cultural activities focused in and around the Downtown. • Cafe/seating spaces, plazas, parklettes, and other landscaping features are woven into the design of streets and buildings. • Once Downtown, walking and bicycling are the primary means for traveling around Downtown while vehicles are accommodated through consolidated parking lots and metered street parking. • Traffic speeds along Hermosa Avenue should be managed through traffic calming, signalization, and streetscape enhancements. Downtown Parking Design • A park -once district that allows centralized, shared parking facilities providing pedestrian connections at multiple destinations should be provided in Downtown. • Parking should be provided off-site through public or private shared parking facilities, with any on-site parking situated to the rear of the buildings and/or hidden and screened. • Real-time parking supply signage should be added to major City lots/structures to improve circulation and access to the beach and The Strand. Restaurants and shops open onto activity on. Pier Plaza Downtown has high levels of pedestrian activity. PLAN HERMOSA I 91 To achieve the intent, buildings should transform the orientation and design in the Civic Center, while enhancing the streetscape and circulation of all modes and users. The Community Center provides creative arts and athletic facilities. 92 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Civic Center District At the physical center of town, the Civic Center :mi area is the civic hub of services and activities for the community. The Civic Center provides efficient and accessible services to the community, but is in need of modernization, repairs, and additional space. Future Vision The intent is to transform the building orientation and design in the Civic Center, while enhancing the streetscape and circulation of all modes and users. The Civic Center facilities will be modernized to accommodate the range of functions and services provided by the City, and will be expanded to provide consolidated parking facilities in well designed or underground parking structures to serve commercial uses both along Pacific Coast Highway and Downtown. Streetscape enhancements will provide an important connection between the main thoroughfares of Pacific Coast Highway, Downtown, and the residential neighborhoods. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The Civic Center area should provide public facilities and open space uses to serve as the City government's primary facility presence within the community. Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • In the Civic Center area, active and well designed ground floors are critical. Ground floors should be mostly transparent and open to the public. • Community facilities and City Hall should be designed and. oriented toward the street with inviting public spaces and clearly marked entryways. • Design and maintain civic buildings in an architecturally distinguished manner that serves as a source of identity and pride. Architectural styles should be distinct with building entries placed along the front property line, and oriented towards Pier Avenue. • Civic Center area facilities should be designed to accommodate parking demands for the beach, Downtown, and the PCH corridor. • Although buildings can be accessed from rear or underground parking lots, the public street -facing entrance should be prominent and emphasized with pedestrian -oriented features. • Community facilities should be designed and promoted for use by public and private organizations supporting tourism, conference, convention, and cultural uses. Public Realm Design • Streetscape design, civic facilities, and entryway signage enhancements should be made between Pacific Coast Highway and Valley Drive to provide a greater sense of arrival to Hermosa Beach. • Provide easily accessible entryways and direct connections between civic, community, and recreational facilities. • Circulation of vehicles, pedestrians, and other modes at Pier Avenue and Valley/Ardmore Drive should be greatly enhanced. • Non -motorized users of Ardmore Drive and Valley Drive should be accommodated to facilitate safe north -south travel through painting, directional signage, or streetscape design changes. • Signage and other markers should be provided to assist residents and visitors in navigating to services and between facilities around the Civic Center. • Create a greater sense ofarrival at Valley Drive and Pier Avenue, Public displays of art in the Civic'. Center help to enliven the area. PLAN HERMOSA I 93 To achieve the intent, building should transform both the design and orientation as well as the public realm and streetscape within the Cypress area. Cypress District The Cypress District currently includes a range 19' of professional design, light manufacturing, and warehousing uses, and is home to many of the locally renowned surfboard shapers. The City operations yard occupies a large portion of this area. Future Vision The intent is to transform both the building design and orientation as well as the public realm and streetscape within the Cypress District. This area is the creative, production and light industrial center of Hermosa Beach where ideas, spaces, and creativity are easily shared. The Cypress District includes a variety of flexible use ],„}„m,,, spaces, co -working offices, and creative or "maker" industries. ; -` ` Intended Distribution of Land Uses j r i The Cypress District is exclusively designated for creative light industrial uses, with preference toward production uses aligned with green economy. While the area should allow some retail uses, the focus is on specialty trade services and must be accessory to P;1'. t the design or production uses. The Cypress District should support the development of new uses that will bring a wide range of high-quality jobs accessible to people with a variety of skill levels, ,t ' including research and development and light industrial uses. 14 ;;;;/, Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation .ss r Building with industrial architecture. 94 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • This area should be comprised of industrial buildings or lofts with entries that are visible from the street. • The development or use of existing buildings to serve as incubators, co -working space, or other creative sharing spaces should be encouraged. • Greater flexibility in the application of aesthetic standards should be provided to encourage artistic expression and creation of unique public spaces. • Rooftops should provide green space, renewable energy and decks. • Adjacent residences should be buffered through the use of landscaping, setbacks, or other techniques from businesses which produce noise, odors, high traffic volumes, light, or glare. • Public Realm Design • Cypress Avenue, with enhanced streetscape design, is an ideal space for community -oriented art walks or sidewalk sales. • Common gathering areas and meeting spaces are provided to facilitate the sharing and exchanging of ideas. • Unique signage, decals, or artworks should pay homage to the area's history as a surfboard manufacturing center. • Artistic flair is provided through building design, signage, and murals to enliven the area. • Cypress Avenue should be used as a space for public gathering and special events through the redesign of the narrow right of way as a shared street for all modes of travel that is comfortably scaled and designed for lower speeds. • Parking is provided behind or to the side of buildings via driveways and alleys, or in small-scale parking structures to serve the district and nearby public facilities. • • Artistic flair is provided through signage. PLAN HERMOSA I 95 Aviation Corridor To achieve the intent, The Aviation Boulevard Corridor serves as the primary entry point buildingshould transform into Hermosa Beach. There are currently a variety of commercial retail, office, and auto -oriented uses along the corridor, building design, form, and orientation while enhancing Future Vision the streetscape and access The intent is to transform the building design, form, and orientation for pedestrians and bicycles while enhancing the streetscape and access for pedestrians and bicycles in this area. The area should be transformed into a in this area. walkable, multi -use, active commercial corridor with ground -floor uses such as retail, restaurants, and personal services to serve the daily needs of residents east of Pacific Coast Highway and provide ! artistic and cultural services to the entire community. Enhanced `'`""`= streetscapes with parkettes or outdoor space, paired with new `°°`°ix'"' commercial uses, should help to activate the street. Intended Distribution of Land Uses The revitalized area should include key activity nodes, with retail, restaurant, and office uses and iconic architecture to mark the j entry into Hermosa Beach. Gateway commercial uses should anchor each end of the corridor, creating multi -use activity centers. The installation or expansion of arts and cultural facilities along this corridor should be encouraged. I-- r South Bay Art Studio provides ground floor activities. 96 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE GC Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • Buildings should be one or two stories tall, with high floor -to - ceiling heights on the ground floor creating appropriately scaled buildings. • High quality signage/materials and maximum transparency are critical features that should be included to attract shoppers and walkers. Redevelopment of larger parcels is designed in a way that orients new buildings around a central plaza or square and provides a mixture of retail and office uses within a single site. Most parking should be arranged along the sides or behind buildings, with larger parcels able to provide consolidated parking facilities that can serve uses along the entire corridor. • • With shallow lots, buildings should be placed in close proximity to the street and designed to complement the surrounding residential area. • Zero lot line front and side setbacks are encouraged to ensure a consistent rhythm of storefronts. Public Realm Design • Street parking, wide sidewalks, and street amenities should protect pedestrians from traffic and enliven the outdoor space. • Enhanced connectivity should be provided through new pedestrian connections to adjacent residential areas. • Traffic speeds should be moderated to ensure a smoother flow of vehicles along the corridor while enhancing safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. • Redevelopment at the intersection of Aviation Boulevard and PCH should respond to its regional significance as a gateway and key activity center. • Redevelopment opportunity to enhance gateway. Wide sidewalks and street level amenities provide visual interest. PLAN HERMOSA 1 97 To achieve the intent, the City should enhance building design and form, and transform streetscapes and gateways to serve pedestrians and improve vehicular circulation. i1dryK` LdO�W� tMt _ ff 1, II Building with high quality signage and building materials. 98 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE Pacific Coast Highway Corridor The PCH corridor serves as the primary entry point into Hermosa Beach, as well as a pass-through corridor between Manhattan Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. There should be a variety of commercial retail, office, residential, and auto -oriented uses along the corridor. Future Vision The intent is to enhance building design and form, and transform streetscapes and gateways to serve pedestrians and improve vehicular circulation. The PCH Corridor will be a multi- use commercial corridor with key activity nodes and iconic architecture to activate the entryways. The corridor connects the community with adjacent neighborhoods and cities. A regular rhythm of storefronts and streetscape enhancements should provide a welcoming atmosphere that is enticing to shoppers and pleasant to walk along. New gateway monuments and signage are added to promote Hermosa Beach's identity. Consolidated parking facilities are added at key locations along the corridor. Intended Distribution of Land Uses A mix of office and commercial uses along the corridor should be organized around key activity nodes, with limited residential uses. Larger scale professional office spaces, hotels and visitor serving uses, and commercial retail space are provided to serve both local residents and the region. Limited medium- and high-density residential uses are also allowed between activity nodes within the PCH Corridor. �i CC GSC SC^ `PF Desired Form and Character Building Design and Orientation • High-quality signage or materials and maximum transparency of ground floor uses should be provided to attract shoppers and provide visual interest to pedestrians. • Redevelopment of larger parcels should be designed in a way that orients new buildings around a central plaza or square and provides a mixture of retail and office uses within a single site. • Parking should be arranged along sides or underneath buildings, with gateway commercial uses providing parking structures. • The majority of the buildings are placed towards the street, and where possible, adjacent buildings should be introduced to construct a more comfortable pedestrian environment. • Flexibility in the design of Gateway Commercial designation • • should be provided so long as city-wide and project level connectivity standards are met, the uses do not adversely affect adjacent uses and accommodations are made for pedestrians, bicycle and transit users. • Within Community Commercial designations, zero lot line front and side setbacks should be allowed to ensure a consistent rhythm of storefronts. • To provide greater integration and connectivity within the Corridor, the consolidation of parcels into larger assemblages should be allowed. Public Realm Design • The prominence of entryways to Hermosa Beach should be increased through the provision of artwork, monuments, and signage along PCH. • Sidewalks are improved to make PCH more welcoming and accessible to pedestrians. • Innovative traffic calming methods should be employed along the Corridor to improve traffic flow and foster a quieter outdoor environment. • Traffic speeds are moderated to ensure a smoother flow of vehicles along the corridor while enhancing safety for pedestrians and bicyclists as they cross Pacific Coast Highway. • Pacific Coast Highway should serve as a regional thoroughfare, but enhanced to better manage congestion and traffic speeds. Unique uses create activity centers along the corridor. Wider sidewalks and traffic calming, '. enhancements can increase safety.„ PLAN HERMOSA 99 Goals and Policies This section contains goals and policies for land use and urban form. Given the importance of this chapter, these goals and policies are organized according to sub -topics that reflect the values and unique characteristics of Hermosa Beach. The subtopics of the goals include urban form and pattern, residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors and districts, urban design and public realm, coastal priority uses, historic resources, and public art and design. Goal 1. Create a sustainable urban form and land use patterns that support a robust economy and high quality of life for residents. Providing a balance of housing, employment, retail and services, recreation, culture and arts, education, and entertainment for the city's residents and businesses helps to promote sustainability, safety, prosperity, and well-being of the community and improves the quality of life for residents. Policies 1.1 Diverse and distributed land use pattern. Strive to maintain the fundamental pattern of existing land uses, preserving residential neighborhoods, while providing for enhancement of corridors and districts in order to improve community activity and identity. 1.2 Focused infill potential. Proposals for new development should be directed toward the city's commercial areas with an emphasis on developing transit -supportive land use mixes. 1.3 Access to daily activities. Strive to create sustainable development patterns such that the majority of residents are within walking distance to a variety of neighborhood goods and services, such as supermarkets, restaurants, churches, cafes, dry cleaners, laundromats, farmers markets, banks, personal services, pharmacies and similar uses. 1.4 Diverse commercial areas. Promote the development of diversified and unique commercial districts with locally owned businesses and job- or revenue -generating uses. 1.5 Balance resident and visitor needs. Ensure land uses and businesses provide for the needs of residents as well as visitors. 1.6 Scale and context. Consider the compatibility of new development within its urban context to avoid abrupt changes in scale and massing. 1.7 Compatibility of uses. Ensure the placement of new uses does not create or exacerbate nuisances between different types of land uses. 1.8 Respond to unique characteristics. Enhance the unique character and identity of the city's neighborhoods, districts and corridors through land use and design decisions. Allow policies and programs to be focused on each unique character area of the city. 1.9 Retain commercial land area. Discourage the conversion of commercial land to residential uses. 1.10 Transition between uses. Encourage new projects in non-residential areas to employ architectural transitions to adjoining residential properties to ensure compatibility of scale and a sense of privacy for existing residences. Such transitions could include setbacks, gradations and transitions in building height and appropriate landscaping. 100 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • • Goal 2. Neighborhoods provide for diverse =' needs of residents of all ages and abilities, and are organized to support healthy and active lifestyles. While each neighborhood in Hermosa Beach is distinct, they each provide a variety of housing types, densities, designs and mix of uses and services that collectively reflect the small beach town character. The diversity of building types respond to the diversity of the city's population and the desire to create interesting and varied neighborhoods. Policies 2.1 Complete neighborhoods. Neighborhoods are complete and well -structured by encouraging, where appropriate, the following characteristics: Contain a high level of connectivity for pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles. Have homes with entries and windows facing the street. Provide a diversity of architectural styles. • Have goods and services within a short walking distance. • Address the needs of multiple ages and physical abilities. 2.2 Variety of types of neighborhoods. Encourage preservation of existing single density neighborhoods within the city and ensure that neighborhood types are dispersed throughout the city. 2.3 Balanced neighborhoods. Promote a diverse range of housing unit types and sizes, within the allowed densities. 2.4 Single density neighborhoods. Preserve and maintain the Hermosa Hills, Eastside, Valley, North End, and Hermosa View neighborhoods as predominantly single-family residential neighborhoods. 2.5 Neighborhood preservation. Preserve and enhance the quality of residential neighborhoods by avoiding or abating the intrusion of disruptive, nonconforming buildings and uses. 2.6 Diversity of building types and styles. Encourage a diversity of building types and styles in areas designated for multi -family housing ranging from duplex/triplex/fourplex to courtyard housing to multi -family housing projects. 2.7 Context sensitive design. Wherever feasible, orient residential buildings to address streets, public spaces or shared private spaces, and consider the physical characteristics of its site, surrounding land uses, and available public infrastructure. 2.8 Neighborhood transitions. Encourage that new development provide appropriate transitions in scale, building type and density between different land use designations. 2.9 Neighborhood -serving retail. Support the retention of existing neighborhood -serving retail and services in key locations throughout the city. PLAN HERMOSA I 101 2.10 Neighborhood center design. Encourage design of new neighborhood centers to be walkable and pedestrian -friendly with buildings that front internal streets and public sidewalks and with buildings facing major roadways. 2.11 Senior living facilities. Encourage the development of senior housing in neighborhoods that are accessible to public transit, commercial services, and health and community facilities. 2.12 Design of single-family homes. Maintain and enhance the character of single-family home neighborhoods by: • Encouraging homes to engage the street and integrate with the neighborhood through the design of new carports/garages to be subordinate in scale to the primary dwelling, to minimize views from the street, and to not occupy the majority of the street frontage of buildings • Considering the building scale, form, and setbacks within the block when approving new single-family dwellings and additions to existing housing. • Allowing home occupations in neighborhoods so long as there is no significant impact on the surrounding residential uses. • Encouraging property owners to maintain their yards and the front facades of homes and discourage the excessive paving of front yards. 102 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • • • • Goal 3. A series of unique, destination- :,, oriented districts throughout Hermosa Beach. map Well-designed districts provide space for recreational uses, creative industrial, and civic or community uses and help to increase access to jobs, provide amenities for residents, and improve the fiscal stability of the city. Policies 3.1 Unique districts. Encourage the development of local and city-wide districts and centers that address different community needs and market sectors and complement surrounding neighborhoods. 3.2 Compatibility of districts. Require new development within the city's creative industrial district be designed for compatibility with surrounding uses to minimize impact or nuisances (such as noise or odor) and cultivate connectivity with each district. 3.3 Diverse retail and office centers. Provide incentives to transform existing single -use commercial properties that are accessible into retail destinations by adding a diversity of uses, providing new pedestrian connections to adjacent residential areas, reducing the visual prominence of parking lots, making the centers more pedestrian -friendly and enhancing the definition and character of street frontage and associated streetscapes. 3.4 Emerging employment sectors. Strive to create districts that support increased employment activity, particularly for growing or emerging economic sectors. 3.5 Compact office formats. New employment uses should be designed in a compact format with minimal front setbacks from the street, typical lease spans of 40 feet or less, and where feasible, combined with other commercial uses. PLAN HERMOSA I 103 Goal 4. A variety of corridors throughout the city provide opportunities for shopping, recreation, commerce, employment and circulation. Corridors with a variety of uses throughout the city provide opportunities for shopping, recreation, commerce, employment and circulation. Policies 4.1 Regional retail districts. Encourage regional -serving commercial corridors that provide a mix of uses in a pedestrian -oriented format that can become vibrant destinations for people to live, work, shop and congregate. 4.2 Employment centers. Encourage the development and co -location of additional office space and employment centers along corridors, preferably above ground -floor commercial uses on second or third floors. 4.3 Diverse range of uses. Allow a wide variety of uses to locate in Gateway Commercial nodes along corridors, including destination retail centers, lifestyle centers, hotels, and office employment, among other uses. 4.4 Unique architectural design. Encourage the use of unique architectural features, facades, and outdoor spaces within Gateway Commercial developments to signify arrival to Hermosa Beach. 4.5 Corridor connectivity. Recognize corridors as important cross-town thoroughfares that connect Hermosa Beach, serve as transitions between neighborhoods, provide opportunities for local -serving retail and balance the needs of multiple transport modes. 4.6 High quality signage. Businesses are required to provide signage made of high quality materials and design, consistent with City sign codes. 4.7 Access to transit. Support the location of transit stations and enhanced stops near the intersection of Aviation Blvd and PCH, and adjacent to Gateway Commercial uses to facilitate and take advantage of transit service, reduce vehicle trips and allow residents without private vehicles to access services. 4.8 Neighborhood buffer. Encourage all commercial property owners bordering residential areas to mitigate impacts and use appropriate landscaping and buffering of residential neighborhoods. 4.9 Streetscape enhancements. Facilitate streetscape improvements, add pedestrian amenities that attract new uses, and revitalize the corridors. 4.10 Pedestrian access. For all new development, encourage pedestrian access, and create strong building entries that are primarily oriented to the street. 104 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • Goal 5. Quality and authenticity in architecture and site design in all construction and renovation of buildings. Essential to the desired small -beach town character of Hermosa Beach is the use of high quality materials and design standards in the construction and redevelopment of buildings and structures. Use of urban design principles can help to differentiate the city from its neighbors and other similar beach cities through a focus on pedestrian -oriented design, commitment to high quality materials, and encouragement of interesting, unique architecture. Policies 5.1 Scale and massing. Consider the scale of new development within its urban context to avoid abrupt changes in scale and massing. 5.2 High quality materials. Require high quality and long lasting building materials on all new development projects in the city. 5.3 Locally appropriate materials. Require architectural designs, building materials and landscape design to respect and relate to the local climate, topography, history, and building practices. 5.4 Unique brand and identity. Promote city-wide identity with the addition of gateway signs, monuments, or other features to key entrances (especially to the east and north) that display the City's name and identifies the area as a distinct place. 5.5 Preservation and adaptive reuse. Provide incentives for the preservation or adaptive reuse of historic structures and iconic landmarks. 5.6 Eclectic and diverse architecture. Seek to maintain and enhance neighborhood character through eclectic and diverse architectural styles. PLAN HERMOSA I105 Goal 6. A pedestrian -focused urban form • that creates visual interest and a comfortable outdoor environment. By designing buildings and spaces that pay careful attention to the interface between building frontages and the public realm, appropriately scaled design can help to facilitate a walkable, attractive, family -friendly environment that supports healthy and active lifestyles. Policies 6.1 Outdoor amenities. Require all new multi -family and commercial development to be designed and constructed with pedestrian friendly features such as sidewalks, tree -shaded streets, buildings that define the public realm, and, in the case of non-residential uses, have transparent ground floor building facades that activate the street. 6.2 Streetscaping. Proactively beautify existing streetscapes with street trees, landscaping and pedestrian -scaled lighting. 6.3 Green open space network. Establish an interconnected green infrastructure network throughout Hermosa Beach that serves as a network for active transportation, recreation and scenic beauty and connects all areas of the city. In particular, connections should be made between the beach, parks, the Downtown, neighborhoods, and other destinations within the city. Consider the following components when designing and implementing the green/open space network: • Preserved open space areas such as the beach and the Greenbelt • Living streets with significant landscaping and pedestrian and bicycle amenities • Community and neighborhood parks, and schools 6.4 Street lighting for safety. Improve street lighting for public safety and prioritize areas near parks and schools for lighting improvements. 6.5 Provision of sidewalks. Encourage pedestrian friendly sidewalks on both sides of streets in neighborhoods. 6.6 Human -scale buildings. Encourage buildings and design to include human -scale details such as windows on the street, awnings and architectural features that create a visually interesting pedestrian environment. 6.7 Pedestrian oriented design. Eliminate urban form conditions that reduce walkability by discouraging surface parking and parking structures along walkways, long blank walls along walkways, and garage -dominated building facades. 106 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • 6.8 Balance pedestrian and vehicular circulation. Require vehicle parking design to consider pedestrian circulation. Require the following of all new development along corridors: • Where parking lots front the street, the City will work with existing property owners to add landscaping between the parking lot and the street. • Parking lots should be landscaped to create an attractive pedestrian environment and reduce the impact of heat islands. • The number of curb cuts and other intrusions of vehicles across sidewalks should be minimized. • When shared parking supply options are not available, encourage connections between parking lots on adjacent sites. • Above -ground parking structures should be designed according to the same urban design principles as other buildings. • Encourage the use of systems to increase parking lot efficiency, such as mechanical lift systems or occupancy sensors. 6.9 Shared driveways. Allow and encourage new commercial and residential developments to have common driveways serving multiple units, to minimize the number of curb cuts along any given block to improve pedestrian safety. 6.10 Residential garages on major corridors. Garages along major corridors should not dominate the front facades, and when possible, should be located to the side or rear of the lot. PLAN HERMOSA I 107 Goal 7. Adequate space and appropriate integration of community and school facilities that support physical activity, civic life and social connections for residents of all ages and interests. Providing adequate space and preferable locations for institutional uses and community -serving facilities is key to ensuring facilities are appropriately used and potentially negative effects on surrounding residential, commercial, and public areas are minimized. Policies 7.1 Repurposing surplus property. Promote the reuse of surplus publicly -owned property for other uses that benefit the community. 7.2 Joint use with schools. Where appropriate, maintain and enhance joint use agreements with Hermosa Beach City School District to maximize community use of school facilities and expand school use of City park facilities and community space to expand opportunities for physical activity. 7.3 School modernization upgrades. Support Hermosa Beach City School District plans to renovate and modernize school facilities to meet evolving educational needs in a manner that minimizes burdens to adjacent neighborhoods. 7.4 Flexible use of school facilities. Collaborate with the school district to identify appropriate temporary and flexible uses of school facilities that minimize impacts to surrounding neighborhoods during dips or fluctuations in school enrollment numbers. 7.5 Existing institutional uses. Allow for the continuation of recreational, cultural, medical, and religious land uses, and support expansion that is compatible with adjacent land uses. 7.6 School impact fees. Coordinate with the school district(s) to assess and establish school impact fees paid by new development projects. 7.7 Private recreational, cultural, and health care facilities. Encourage compatible development of private recreation, cultural, educational, institutional and health care uses along corridors and in districts. 108 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • • Goal 8. A range of coastal-dependent coastal-de endent and visitor-serving uses available to serve a variety y of income ranges and amenity desires. Provision of adequate accommodations and recreational uses can help to enhance both the visitor and resident experience when frequenting the beach and nearby coastal destinations. Policies 8.1 Coastal -dependent uses. Prioritize coastal -dependent uses over non-dependent developments near the shoreline, unless future demand for such facilities is already adequately provided for in the area. 8.2 Coastal -related uses. Accommodate coastal -related uses within reasonable proximity to the coastal -dependent uses they support. 8.3 Land use regulations. Encourage for coastal -dependent and coastal -related commercial uses in the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial land use designations. Prioritize such uses in the Recreational Commercial designation. Provide for and prioritize coastal -related industrial uses in the Creative Industrial land use designation. 8.4 Existing accommodations. Protect the existing local inventory of conforming legal visitor - serving accommodations in the lower and middle cost ranges. 8.5 New accommodations. Encourage visitor -serving accommodations in the Recreational Commercial land use designation, and encourage new hotel/motel development throughout commercially zoned portions of the planning area to provide a range of room types, sizes, and prices that serve a variety of income ranges. 8.6 Amenities. Require new higher cost hotel and motel development projects to incorporate non -overnight facilities and amenities as a component of the development that are generally available for passive public use. 8.7 Fractional ownership. Prohibit new fractional ownership of overnight accomodations in commercially zoned portions of the Coastal Zone. 8.8 Public access. Within the commercial core, prioritize use of private lands suitable for visitor - serving commercial recreational facilities that enhance public coastal access over private local -serving residential or commercial development or industrial development, but not over coastal -dependent uses. PLAN HERMOSA I 109 Goal 9. Local energy independence through renewable energy generation. Ensuring future renewable energy facilities may be located in the Coastal Zone and sited in a manner that do not degrade wildlife, natural, and scenic resources is key to achieving a clean energy future. Policies 9.1 Ocean -based energy resources. Encourage and support research and responsible development of renewable ocean -based energy sources. Renewable energy sources appropriate to Hermosa Beach could include wave, tidal, and wind sources that meet the region's and state's need for affordable sources of renewable energy. 9.2 Renewable energy facilities. To reduce or avoid conflicts, communicate and collaborate with affected ocean users, coastal residents and businesses, and applicants seeking state or federal authorization for the siting, development, and operation of renewable energy facilities. 9.3 Ecosystem preservation. Ensure that any future proposed offshore facilities do not have unacceptable adverse effects on the integrity, stability, and complexity of the marine ecosystem, important marine habitat, and areas important to fisheries, navigation, recreation, and aesthetic enjoyment. 9.4 Adaptive management. Require renewable energy facility operators to rectify or mitigate adverse effects that occur during the lifetime of the project by monitoring and taking appropriate corrective measures through adaptive management. 9.5 Reclamation. Require renewable energy facility operators to restore the natural characteristics of a site to the extent practicable when a project is decommissioned and removed. 110 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • Goal 10. A strong sense of cultural and architectural heritage. Recognition and celebration of the city's cultural resources and eclectic architectural styles provides for a unique sense of place and a deeper connection to and appreciation for the rich cultural history that has shaped Hermosa Beach. Policies 10.1 Historic landmarks and districts. Encourage the voluntary designation of potentially historic resources as landmarks or historic districts. 10.2 Protect designated landmarks. Continue to use the Certificate of Appropriateness process for reviewing applications to demolish or alter designated landmarks. 10.3 Public and institutional facilities. Consider the designation of potentially historic public or institutional resources under threat of demolition or deterioration. 10.4 Historic resources as cultural tourism. Promote historic places and cultural tourism as an economic development strategy. 10.5 Adaptive reuse and sustainable development. Promote historic preservation as sustainable development and encourage adaptive reuse of historic or older properties. 10.6 History and cultural heritage. Support and encourage efforts to document and share the cultural heritage and history of Hermosa Beach. 10.7 Culturally inclusive planning. Ensure that historic preservation planning is culturally inclusive and reflective of the unique background and diversity of neighborhoods in the city. 10.8 Incentives and technical assistance. Provide expert technical assistance to owners of potentially eligible and designated historic properties with tools and incentives to maintain historic resources. 10.9 Salvage architectural features or materials. Encourage the preservation or reuse of historic architectural features on site or within the community. 10.10 Archaeological and paleontological resources. Recognize the prehistory and history of the city and strive to identify, protect, and preserve archaeological and paleontological resources. Goal 11. A proud and visible identity as an arts and cultural community. Incorporation of artistic elements - whether through temporary events or permanent installations - into the urban landscape adds to the visual interest, walkable nature, and unique identity of Hermosa Beach. Policies 11.1 Locally appropriate art. Prioritize public art that reinforces the identity of Hermosa Beach, incorporating the culture, people, neighborhoods and ideas. 11.2 Creative expression in the built environment. Encourage the infusion of creative expression within the city's built environment to create a memorable urban landscape that respects the past and builds for the future. 11.3 Art as cultural tourism. Recognize the value of the arts to the city's quality of life and economic stability and promote cultural tourism as an engine for economic development. 11.4 Unique gateways. Celebrate the unique gateways to Hermosa Beach by enhancing them with the work of artists. 11.5 City leadership in public art. Embrace a leadership role in facilitating public art and public art partnerships with City Departments, private developers, and arts and cultural organizations. 11.6 Temporary installations. Support ongoing temporary artwork Installations and performance- based arts events in areas with strong pedestrian and vehicular traffic. 11.7 Commissioning new artwork. Encourage the commission of public art projects and events that reinforce the community's small beach town character, vibrant economy, healthy environment, and lifestyles. 11.8 Public art in private development. Actively encourage private development to contribute to the cultural and economic health of the public realm through incorporation of public art. 112 I CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • • Goal 12. A mix of cultural facilities that support and encourage the community's vibrant range of art creation and presentation. Cultural facilities, creative spaces, and room for artistic expression are essential to fostering creativity in community members of all ages. The City plays a role in providing adequate space for artistic endeavors. Policies 12.1 Existing City venues for art. Maintain City -owned recreational facilities with consideration of their existing and potential use as venues for art creation, exhibition and performance. 12.2 Future venues for art. Consider opportunities to incorporate community performance, craft, and other artistic facilities into the development or redevelopment of City -owned community facilities. 12.3 Convenient use of City spaces. Make it as easy and affordable as possible for local art organizations to use City facilities. 12.4 Outdoor performance and exhibit space. Support the maintenance and development of outdoor areas for the performance and exhibition of arts festivals and events. 12.5 Creative art centers. Encourage the use of the Aviation Blvd Corridor and Cypress District as regional centers for the creation, study and presentation of art. 12.6 Artistic needs. Consider the unique needs of artists in City zoning and planning policy making. PLAN HERMOSA I 113 Goal 13. Land uses patterns that improve the health of residents. Through collaboration and commitment to improving the health and well-being of all residents, Hermosa Beach seeks to improve the public health of residents through appropriate land uses, programs, policies, and environmental review. Policies 13.1 Restrict health -harming uses. Prohibit new land uses that harm the physical health and well being of the community. 13.2 Social and health needs. Support the continuation of existing and new uses that enhance the social and health needs of residents. 13.3 Fresh food offerings. Encourage the continuation and expansion of fresh food offerings, including farmers' markets, community gardens, and edible landscapes in Hermosa Beach. 13.4 Private health uses. Allow for the development of private recreation, cultural, educational, institutional and health care uses along Corridors and in Districts, where they are compatible with existing uses. 13.5 Improved livability. Encourage the provision of neighborhood and community amenities and design features, to meet the community desire for a very high quality, amenity -rich, livable community. 13.6 Connecting health and land use. Seek to incorporate health considerations into land use planning decisions in a manner that improves health and well-being. 13.7 Collaborative health partnerships. Build and maintain partnerships with the Beach Cities Health District, health care providers, and community-based organizations to evaluate and implement land use projects in a manner that improves community health. 13.8 Health and the built environment. Strive to increase education and awareness of the health implications of one urban design decision. 114 CHAPTER 2: LAND USE • The Mobility Element is intended to facilitate mobility of people and goods throughout Hermosa Beach by a variety of modes, with balanced emphasis on automobiles, bicycles, pedestrians, and alternative fuel vehicles. How people get around town has broad implications for community sustainability. The choices we make about our transportation system can greatly affect whether fuel use and air pollutants increase or decrease with time, whether our automobile fleet becomes cleaner and more efficient, and even whether we can legitimately choose to walk, bike, or use transit instead of driving a car. A safe and well-maintained transportation system is essential for the health, sustainability, and economic vitality of Hermosa Beach. The City oversees the majority of street, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities, while also coordinating with partners like Caltrans, Metro, and adjacent beach cities. This Mobility Element provides an outline of goals and policies related to the City of Hermosa Beach's transportation network. The Element addresses both the mobility and access needs of Hermosa Beach now and in the future, providing a framework to help guide residents and decision -makers on issues to support continued investment and transformation of the city's circulation system. PLAN HERMOSA 1 115 State Law This Mobility Element has been prepared to meet State General Plan law requirements for circulation as it relates to transportation of goods and people, and additionally to meet California Coastal Act requirements related to coastal access as it relates to parking and alternative transportation modes. Additionally, the content of this Element is formed by legislation requiring local governments to consider the greenhouse gas emissions impact and vehicle miles traveled implications of their land use and transportation policies. General Plan The Mobility Element meets state requirements for the "Circulation" element defined in the California Government Code. The Element, per State law: • Must include the general location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals, any military airports and ports. • Must correlate the location and extent of transportation facilities with the Land Use element. • Must plan for a balanced, multimodal transportation network that meets the needs of all users of streets, roads, and highways for safe and convenient travel. • Should define the "users of streets, roads, and highways" to mean bicyclists, children, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial goods, pedestrians, users of public transportation, and seniors. Recent streetscape enhancements along Pier Avenue. 116 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Coastal Land Use Plan While the California Coastal Act does not include a section specifically regarding transportation issues, it does state how development must maintain access to coastal resources and maintain and distribute parking supply or adequate public transportation so as to minimize adverse impacts. Specific provisions of the Act related to mobility include: Provide measures to expand coastal access through sufficient parking and alternative transportation. Identify measures to provide parking and alternative transportation to recreation and visitor -serving facilities. Development and design standards for highway and roadway corridors through scenic areas or areas of special character. Context Hermosa's transportation infrastructure supports a local economy characterized by small scale business and commercial uses that serve the needs of the city. Residents and visitors of Hermosa currently enjoy a well connected mobility network that effectively circulates people across multiple modes, including opportunities to walk, roll, ride a bicycle, take transit, and drive to the rich selection of destinations and commerce across the city and into the surrounding region. Historically, Hermosa Beach's circulation system has been successful in sustaining past and current mobility demands, but as a beach city, Hermosa's growing popularity continues to attract a high volume of visitors from surrounding areas seeking to enjoy the community's distinct cultural charm and amenities. As Hermosa forges ahead into the future, the City recognizes the need to evaluate, re shape, and redevelop a comprehensive framework and vision to address changing mobility demands and increasingly complex transportation needs of residents, visitors and local businesses. In order to promote continued economic vitality and quality of life within a sustainable framework, improving city streets and public right-of-ways to better accommodate all people, regardless of their mode of travel, will ensure a high level of access, mobility, and quality for residents and visitors of all ages, physical abilities, and income levels. • • • • Transportation Patterns The ways in which people get around are important indicators of the success of a transportation system, shedding light on which modes are most popular, convenient, and safe. Currently, the City of Hermosa Beach is fully developed with established traffic patterns. In the United States, commuting makes up approximately 20% of all trips taken. Accordingly, the choice of which mode to use, as well as the direction and distance traveled to get to and from work, influences travel patterns, traffic congestion, and time spent commuting to work. As depicted in Table 3.1, Hermosa Beach residents are more likely to drive alone, and less likely to carpool, take public transit, or walk/bike compared to Los Angeles County residents. Hermosa Beach residents are also nearly twice as likely to report working from home compared to Los Angeles County residents. Table 3.1 Commute Mode Choice ww p �yot�':?45�'t � S ks /yp -At , . �� fn F:W"S '.&�M�+''=' . k . er�m a Beach �Pt Los Angeles Coun p1100Auto 80.4% 72.2% Carpool 6.4% 10.9% Public Transit 1.1% 7.1% Bike or Walk 2.3% 3.7% Other Means 1.5% 1.2% Work at Home 8.4% 4.8% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2012. The US Census Bureau's Longitudinal Employer - Household Dynamics program combines federal, state, and Census Bureau data to provide local labor market information on where workers live and work. Of the 9,282 employed residents of Hermosa Beach, 95 percent leave the city everyday to go to work. As seen in Figure 3.1, residents commute in large numbers along the Pacific Coast Highway corridor toward El Segundo and Culver City, up to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, and inland to Torrance, Burbank, and Downtown Los Angeles. Conversely, 90% of the 4,893 persons employed in Hermosa Beach live outside of the city. Employees generally commute shorter distances from nearby jurisdictions within the South Bay region, including Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance, Lawndale, Hawthorne, Lomita, and other nearby locales (See Figure 3.2). Figure 3.1 Resident Commute Patterns • Vr.NF, 44� ,ypr East teats y.. /Wyk*tRN loW Worn `� A stn rhw� tea, C".. ,N .�, t. y 4„2114*-- .. Yp �,Grvm Lona W.o1 ,I.,- ,'f iJhwxa a»v .r Gorfm Cam Figure 3.2 Employee Commute Patterns 1.tw.•., -4041114171 �. ri+«x""'"""•• Y ,.na. r. r' aco*trv. ►..». . ' ,rN air4 ,.,.»+, ar..a'."wban G+r: • e'+ ` e• t awl » LY'. V pO.ery O YfitM .. • p /elrva -i..... Qa= a.»,..tteius,.ee eaWto:orrjde. : d.». y uW., 9:: 5'r," Gmdan Crow* PLAN HERMOSA 1 117 Traffic Volume Trends Driving in the U.S. began to decline three years before the Great Recession. After 50 years of steady growth, total national vehicle miles traveled (VMT) leveled off in 2004 and declined by 8% between 2004 and 2012. Whether travel will return to growth rates of past decades, remain static, or continue to decline is of critical importance to decision -makers in business and government at the local, state and national levels. In Hermosa Beach, traffic volumes on key corridors have been stable or in some cases declining in the last decade. Recent research into these national traffic trends shows both recession -related effects and a fundamental, possibly permanent, leveling of the economy and travel, especially for present and future people in younger generations (especially 16 to 30 year-olds). Looking across the generations at Baby Boomers, Generation Xers, and Millennials this research envisions continued changes across generational lines: • While many millennia's still prefer driving, more frequently they are choosing low -travel urban lifestyles with emphasis on walking, cycling, ride -sharing and transit. • Other common explanations for VMT decline - such as the effects of technology, urbanization and modal shifts for other generations - have modest effects. • Key reasons behind the late -20th century VMT growth, such as escalating labor force participation, may have reached saturation and diminishing returns. PLAN Hermosa includes various policies aimed to develop an integrated multimodal transportation system that is expected to serve a flexible and changing set of travel demands, including extensive support for active transportation modes. In addition to the Mobility Element, PLAN Hermosa's Sustainability, Parks, and Infrastructure Elements all incorporate and support sustainable transportation. Policies are aimed at effectively managing and maintaining the City's circulation system with the goal of minimizing congestion, increasing local and regional access opportunities, and enhancing traffic circulation by reducing vehicle trips and increasing access to non -motorized and low - carbon transportation options. 118 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Regional Connections • In Hermosa Beach, the most direct regional connection is provided by 4"m Pacific Coast Highway in the north -south direction and the closest freeway, the San Diego Freeway (I-405), is located approximately three miles east of the city border. Regional corridors connecting Hermosa Beach to other destinations include Pacific Coast Highway, Aviation Boulevard, 190th Street, Artesia Boulevard, and Vista Del Mar. While the Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard corridors are predominantly used by regional traffic, they also represent the major local transportation spines of Hermosa Beach. As such, they must balance local and regional needs in the design and operation of the corridors. While Pacific Coast Highway is owned by Caltrans, the City and Caltrans are committed to collaborating to transform Pacific Coast Highway into a balanced multi -modal transportation system with choices to utilize automobiles and alternative modes of transportation, including public transit (both regional and local), walking, and biking. High traffic volumes have created congestion along the city's main arterials. Generally, there is a significant amount of traffic along Pacific Coast Highway, Artesia Boulevard, Aviation Boulevard, 8th Street, and Herondo Avenue all with unacceptable Levels of Service. This is consistent with these roadways' roles as connectors to the regional transportation network. Goods Movement Truck routes in Hermosa Beach are designated along major arterial and collector roadways that include Pacific Coast Highway, Aviation Boulevard, Artesia Boulevard, Pier Avenue, and the segment of Valley Drive south of Pier Avenue (in the southbound direction). Most areas of the city requiring truck route access are adequately served by the existing system, with the exception of the northwestern portion of the city along Greenwich Village, 27th Street, and Manhattan Avenue. This designated truck route system directs heavy truck traffic away from local (residential) roadways in order to help maintain pavement quality on local streets and manage noise and air pollution in residential areas. • • Transportation Safety + Collisions 1 \2 • • A traffic collision is considered to be any event where a vehicle strikes any object while moving. That object could be another car, a pedestrian, or something fixed in place like a light post. When collisions cause damage or injury, the details are recorded by the local law enforcement agency and loaded into the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System. The latest report was used to analyze collision data in Hermosa Beach. From 2008 to 2012, there were a total of 650 vehicle collisions, with one collision resulting in a single fatality and 10 resulting in severe injuries. The top three cited factors contributing to collisions were: driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (18 percent), unsafe speed (18 percent), and right-of-way violations (17 percent). Alcohol was a factor in 150 collisions,with the share of collisions involving alcohol substantially higher on weekends, with alcohol a factor in 19 percent of collisions occurring Monday through Thursday, and in 28 percent of collisions occurring Friday through Sunday. Figure 3.3 shows the locations and types of collisions in Hermosa Beach in the five-year period from 2008 to 2012. As illustrated in Figure 3.3, the spatial distribution of collision frequency differs by collision type. The areas with highest prevalence of collisions of a specific type are also areas in which one would expect high levels of activity for that mode choice. Specifically, the highest prevalence of vehicle -vehicle collisions in Hermosa Beach occurs on Pacific Coast Highway, the roadway with the highest volume of vehicles; the highest prevalence of vehicle -bicycle collisions occurs on Hermosa Avenue, the only marked bicycle Number of Collisions 160 120 80 40 0 Figure 3.3 Collisions 2008-2012 ti 1041* 361. dr ALL rEOCSW..i .N AVE COlttl* +S AAE Off PIE RALE facility; and the highest prevalence of vehicle -pedestrian collisions occurs on Pier Avenue, a major shopping center and popular pedestrian destination, though notably the rate of collisions have measurably decreased since the Upper Pier Avenue Improvement Project was completed. The number of vehicle collisions of any type decreased every year during the five-year period, for a total reduction of 32 percent from 2008 to 2012. During the same time period, the number of collisions involving a pedestrian or bicyclist has remained constant, meaning that the total share of these types of collisions has increased, as illustrated in Figure 3.4 below. Figure 3.4 Collisions 2008-2012 2008 was p Vehicle Only a Bicycle ® Pedestrian 2010 Year 2011 2012 PLAN HERMOSA 1 1 19 Redesigning Pier Ave. In Downtown Hermosa Beach has helped reduce pedestrian collisions. Pedestrian Collisions Before Complete Street Redesign 120 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Pedestrian Collisions Affer.Complete Street Redesign 0 Reduction Factor Per Complete Pedestrian + Bicycle Environment Hermosa Beach has many important foundational elements that make it a great walkable city Ti► - a feature that makes Hermosa Beach unique and draws visitors from throughout the area. The gridded street network, small blocks, and dense land uses make many of the city's most important and interesting destinations accessible to pedestrians. Walking represents a no -cost transportation mode that improves health outcomes, reduces congestion, and improves air quality. The 22 walk streets and The Strand provide safe and plentiful pedestrian connections between Downtown, residential neighborhoods, and the beach, while walking paths on the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt and continuous sidewalks along Prospect Avenue provide north -south connections away from the beach. However, the pedestrian environment in many areas of town suffer from a lack of continuity. In particular, sidewalks are not continuous throughout the city. In some locations, sidewalks are present on both sides of the roadway, while in others - chiefly on local streets - they are present on just one side or not at all. Missing curb ramps, narrow sidewalks, steep sloping driveway entrances, and sidewalk obstructions can present challenges to users of all abilities. Various traffic calming improvements are installed and can be expanded to help reduce vehicle speeds and improve pedestrian safety. While bicycles are legally allowed on all streets in Hermosa Beach, many potential bicyclists only feel comfortable utilizing streets where the volume of vehicles is low, or where dedicated bicycle facilities are present. The Strand, Southern California's famous beachside bicycle path, and segment of the California Coastal Trail, serves the Hermosa Beach community on its way between Torrance and Malibu. Other existing bicycle facilities in Hermosa Beach include bicycle routes along Hermosa Avenue, a bicycle lane in each direction along Herondo Street, and a marked bicycle route along Monterey Avenue to 22nd Street. Transit Access Transit service within the City of Hermosa Beach is provided by three transportation agencies: Beach Cities Transit (BCT), Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) Commuter Express, and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro); and includes a demand - responsive paratransit service. Regional transit access is provided by a network of local and regional facilities provided by Beach Cities Transit, Los Angeles Metro, and LADOT Commuter Express. • Light rail transit connections in the South Bay are served by Metro's Green Line; the nearest stop to Hermosa Beach is the Redondo Beach Station. Beach Cities Transit Beach Cities Transit provides local transit service for the Los Angeles Beach Cities. Daily weekday and weekend transit services are served by two routes, Transit Lines 102 and 109. Line 109 runs north -south beginning at the Redondo Beach Riviera Village and runs along the coast through Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach and ends at the Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center. Connection to regional transit, the Metro Green Line, is served by two stops: the Aviation/LAX Station and the Douglas Station. Routes operated by Beach Cities Transit are summarized in Table 3.2. Table 3.2 Beach Cities Transit Routes 102 109 Redondo Beach Pier Riviera Village Redondo Beach Green Line Station Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center Weekday r+ Weekend Headway ..Headway.; 30 - 45 min 30-50 min 30 - 45 min 60 min Source: Beach Cities Transit Dial -A -Ride Transit Services The WAVE Dial -A -Taxi program provides demand - responsive paratransit service for senior and disabled passengers. Paratransit is an alternative mode of flexible passenger transportation that does not follow fixed routes or schedules. Citywide WAVE operations provides same day, curb to curb transit to anyone who meets the qualifications. The standard fare for service within Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, or any area south of El Segundo Boulevard, west of Crenshaw Boulevard, and north of Pacific Coast Highway is $1.00. 122 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Los Angeles County Metro Transit Metro operates several bus routes and rail lines that provide regional transit service within or near Hermosa Beach. Metro Line 130 provides east -west coverage between the Beach Cities to the Artesia Transit Center. Major stops along this line provide connections to the Metro Silver and Blue Lines. North -south transit coverage is served by Metro Line 232. This route travels along Pacific Coast Highway between Downtown Long Beach and the Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center. Metro's Green Line provides regional east -west light rail service to the South Bay area. This rail line provides direct connections to north -south rail via the Metro Blue Line. Routes operated by Metro that directly serve Hermosa Beach are summarized in Table 3.3. Table 3.3 LA Metro Transit Services :Route 130 232 Local Local ervice To From Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles via Gateway Cities Downtown Long Beach to Los Angeles Airport City Bus Center eekday�Weekend Headway Headw j% 30 min 20 min 50 - 60 min 30 - 60 min Source • Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority 2015; Los Angeles Department of Transportation 2015. Los Angeles Commuter Express The LADOT Commuter Express provides one bus route (Commuter Express Route 438) with express service between the Beach Cities area to Downtown Los Angeles via the Century and Harbor Freeways. This line makes local stops in Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, and El Segundo. The route operated by LA DOT that directly serves Hermosa Beach is summarized in Table 3.4. Table 3.4 Los Angeles Commuter Express Transit Services 438 Express ervice To/From wAtAbolltead Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, El Segundo, and Los Angeles Weekday.' Headway 4414 ., 5-15 min Source: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority 2015; Los Angeles Department of Transportation 2015. • • s Streets designed formultiple uses, users, and modes: Policies that encourage street connectivity aimed at creating a comprehensive, integrated, and connected network for all modes with consideration to a range of users including children, disabled, and seniors. Complete Streets are sheets that: Are safe for everyone its Support livable communities fpg„ Support a vibrant economy Ar. v Encourage healthy, active lifestyles Social' People -oriented streets serve multiple community functions that promote healthy, active lifestyles and a public -realm that provides vibrant and welcoming gathering spaces. gel .Economic Increasing accessibility through complete streets that provide multimodal access to Hermosa Beach's local amenities and destinotions. �J Environmental' Encourages better development decisions that improves the air, water, and land quality of Hermosa Beach by helping to get cars off the roads and promoting active transportation. PLAN HERMOSA I 123 Parking in Hermosa Beach Automobile parking is a coveted resource in Hermosa Beach. There are a total of just over 4,400 parking spaces in the City's Coastal Zone. Parking Supply There is currently significant demand for parking in the Coastal Zone, particularly from 8th Street to the south city limit. This is a result of limited on -street parking and relatively few off-street parking spaces given the number of dwelling units and visitors. Occupancy in the Coastal Zone is lightest on weekday afternoons and heaviest on weekend afternoons, with occupancy on weekday evenings more similar to that of afternoons on weekdays than on weekends. Within the Coastal Zone, metered parking is available on Hermosa Avenue, on streets west of Hermosa Avenue near the Hermosa Pier, on Pier Avenue between Hermosa Avenue and Valley Drive, and on local streets immediately to the east of Hermosa Avenue near the northern and southern City limits. Time-limited, free street parking is available on most other streets between Hermosa Avenue and Valley Drive. Off-street municipal parking is available near Pier Plaza, in City parks, and by the Community Center at parking lots that are individually metered and with kiosk payment systems. Unmetered street parking is available on a majority of local streets throughout the remainder of the city except during street sweeping times. An appropriate quantity of well managed automobile parking is necessary for the success of the city's businesses and for the quality of life of its car -owning residents. The efficient provision and management of parking can help provide sufficient space for vehicles while also encouraging more efficient use of existing facilities, reducing the impact of parking facilities, and reducing automobile use. Of the 4,400 parking spaces in the Coastal Zone, more than 400 can be found in one of three public parking lots located west of Hermosa Avenue near the beach, while approximately 1,500 of the on -street spaces are metered. For purposes of analysis, and with input from City of Hermosa Beach staff, the Coastal Zone was divided into three subzones with the following geographic limits: • Zone 1: North City Limit - 16th Street Primarily Residential land use • Zone 2: 16th Street - 8th Street Primarily Commercial land use • Zone 3: 8th Street - South City Limit Primarily Residential land use Table 3.5 Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply k Area t -,;T`.„ •.. ,,. +iSi� °c�'fiew.� ,>� f.4.1cP V nMetered zP�„�e. � Mke?'�L A rrfr A4:G 1,512 R ,w vm' o ,t } r.'iS'eBrailig ' `ir` - o f td'�R?� s 'µ'' Unmetered k' `"Parking ,. "rl �;-74R#103641' ` . R wE^F4 i -,i 1f7GWNW. 8533.. 1 ,if , • , _ ' r' Overall 2,457 428* 4,397 Zone 1 622 1,394 - 2,016 Zone 2 419 764 428* 1,611 Zone 3 471 299 - 770 *For this analysis, Parking Lot D, which includes 19 metered spaces, is accounted for in the Metered Spaces counts rather than Parking Lot totals because the spaces are individually metered instead of collecting payment via kiosk, which occurs at Lots A, 8, and C. 124 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Figure 3.5 Existing Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply L''7...M a C'ti��+ \ A \1 \ (X%11 �'3%ro 1_ zone 1 �� \� "‘ Parking Supply: 1\3 2 016 �1 .\ 'k :4., �11�`' ! GIMP •,�\ tv\O•` QMµ T ,! �._ 11 'r 1n � , U 1� Z.r— a_ i‘tone.2. 11 +ai1--. -.r Supply: 11 '"'r 1 1 163 �� .a a 4` ii Lots s 426 �� a ti'" 11 P,,: l ,t«p i1 +.- 11Vi 11 1 v. -c3 -- \;:t i 11 i .1ti ii — «gin '' 1 � -a . 1 s i1 A 1\ y"`.. 4 1\r. emc+ i 3 Zone 3 SS "`y�� Supply: 11 s no 1 � �d S1 a 4 i Zone Parking Street Segments Public l Pac tic t7Cean 15 30 52 51.75 x++79.94 Parking ®261 �, 19 PteletentatPetkeJ ct,. "1 Coasts! 2nn Dry cf 11.mota 5aictl i1 111 1 1 Zoite 3 i t Manhattan Beach 1 I Redondo Beach MM PLAN HERMOSA 1 125 Parking Occupancy Rates Occupancy in the Coastal Zone is lightest on weekday afternoons and heaviest on weekend afternoons, with occupancy on weekday evenings more similar to that of weekday afternoons on than weekends. Geographically, utilization of parking spaces is highest in Zone 1, with more than twice as many spaces occupied in Zone 1 than in Zone 3 in each surveyed time period. Despite this, occupancy rates (the percent of spaces which are occupied, as opposed to the number of spaces unoccupied) are highest in Zone 3 due to the unequal distribution of parking spaces between subzones. In Zone 3 on Saturday afternoons, the parking supply nears capacity with an occupancy rate of 98 percent, though overall occupancy in the Coastal Zone never exceeds 80 percent. Table 3.6 and Figure 3.6 present the number and percent of occupied public parking spaces during a weekday afternoon, weekday evening, and weekend afternoon, respectively. Table 3.6 Coastal Zone Parking Occupancy r„ Weekday;Weekday; Weekend eekday'�. Evening Area §s , r Afternoon . Evening `Y Arte noon Overall 2,367 54% 2,756 63% 3,470 79% Zone 1 1,118 55% 1,317 65% 1,712 85% Zone 2 773 48% 825 51% 1,005 62% Zone 3 476 62% 614 80% 753 98% Figure 3.6 Parking Occupancy Rates Weekday Afternoon City Parking Lots A total of 428 parking spaces are provided in the three public parking facilities with payment kiosks, Lots A, B and C, which are located between Hermosa Avenue and The Strand near Pier Avenue. Overall occupancy of the three lots was lightest on a weekday evening and highest on a weekend afternoon. Occupancy was generally higher than 85 percent, but at no surveyed time did occupancy drop below 79 percent. During the weekend afternoon survey, Lot B was closed for an event. Table 3.7 presents parking supply numbers as well as occupancy rates in the three parking facilities during each of the analyzed time periods. Additionally, the proportion of parking spaces occupied by a parking permit holder are also presented. Table 3.7 Public Parking Lot Occupancy Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon 126 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • • Weekday ;Afternoon- '' eekday'�. Evening ,`kk Weekend Afternoon Permit Permit Permit Occ Occ Occ Occ Occ Occ Lot Supply Rate Rate Rate Rate Rate Rate Overall 428 89% 33% 79% 7% 95% 9% Lot A 130 95% 5% 90% 8% 90% 11% Lot B 37 100% 59% 97% 19%- - Lot C 261 96% 43% 72% 4% 97% 9% Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon 126 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • • Preferential Parking Permit Program The geographic borders of the Residential Parking Permit District are nearly contiguous with the Coastal Zone boundary. Residential parking permit holders are entitled to park at 24-hour meters without paying the meter, or in one hour residential zones without regard to the time limit for up to 72 hours. Employees of local businesses are also entitled to purchase parking permits for an additional fee in designated areas. Occupancy by residential parking permit holders within the Coastal Zone is heaviest in the evening and on weekends, when almost half of all spaces are occupied by permit holders. In Zone 3 on weekends, permit holders consume almost the entire parking supply (85 percent). Table 3.8 presents the percent of public parking spaces in each zone occupied by a parking permit holder's vehicle across the three time periods. Table 3.8 Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders Area E ` °, Weekdays Afternoon Weekday`s Evening€'Afternoon Wekend.�5{ a e Overall 28% 40% 44% Zone 1 30% 45% 46% Zone 2 20% 25% 22% Zone 3 37% 61% 85% Electric Vehicle Parking The number of electrical vehicle owners and drivers in Hermosa Beach has expanded dramatically as the number of model options has increased and the availability of state and federal rebates and incentives continues. According to the California Air Resources Board, approximately 285 electric vehicle rebates totaling $578,300 have been issued to residents or businesses in Hermosa Beach between 2012 and 2015. To serve the growing number of electric vehicle drivers, including residents, shoppers, and visitors, the City of Hermosa Beach has installed several electric vehicle charging stations at parking lots throughout the city. Lot C provides three electric vehicle charging stations on the third floor of the parking facility; the parking lot at City Hall provides two charging stations, and an additional set of charging stations are provided on Pier Avenue. In 2016, an additional 10 dual port meters will be installed at City facilities, parks and public spaces to provide an additional 20 electric vehicle charging spaces. At present, the City does not charge for parking in these spaces as a further incentive. Neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) are also a common form of transportation in Hermosa Beach and are offered free parking at silver meters. Intended Mobility System '+ Street Network The intended mobility system of street classifications, pedestrian facilities, bicycle facilities, and transportation amenities will direct future roadway improvements and performance measurement for new and reconfigured streets to carry out mobility priorities more effectively and to balance the needs of all travel modes. Key highlights of the proposed mobility systems and street network include: • Greater emphasis on east -west connections. • Greater emphasis on pedestrian realm and complete network. • Bike facility moved from 8th Street to 5th/6th Street. • Identification of multi -use path connections to parks, schools, and key destinations. Definitions of street classifications consider surrounding land uses and designate priority levels for different travel modes within each street type. Combined, the types represent a hierarchical network linked to typical design standards and anticipated traffic levels. Table 3.9 and Figures 3.7 through 3.10 delineate the planned mobility network. The intended Safe Routes to School Network is also depicted in Figure 3.11. Street Classifications defines the roadway network of streets based on likely volume of traffic. Pedestrian Facilities identifies the facilities designated for pedestrian use and prioritizes those needed to create a complete sidewalk network. 128 1 CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY Bicycle + Multi -Use Facilities highlights the bicycle facilities and other shared use spaces for bicycles and other modes of transportation. Transportation Amenities identifies additional transportation amenities such as bicycle and electric vehicle parking, a local trolley, and crossing controls. • • 110 Table 3.9 Transportation Network Descriptions PLAN HERMOSA 1 129 d a L �'�' .°t ' , iTYP,„ � �ii� l' ,4.. .a. '"R: �.�i,5+,1:' Alleyway �k }�y. , m' a t4i'}'y". 1, c g i .,' h�•r °.f diet}. �iH�, .l �'.e.°+ t Alleyways provide access to private $Lj' V'BT�ai i3 "YiP,Wd �, i`' "' ^� 1' f� Descnpfiion. y�;� 9, �+ �.u;+hril�s,'PE�a,iir;nSaa+Fl6°k �i ?%� 1F,� �a :r properties, including parking spaces and garages. Local Street Local streets provide connections within neighborhoods. Local streets are not intended to serve through traffic and are generally one lane each direction with lower vehicle volumes. Arterial (major + minor) Arterials carry the majority of vehicles entering, leaving, or traveling through the city. Major and minor arterials are differentiated by the volume of vehicles using the street and width of the right-of-way. •..?';;y,r�, d It . a u c. ab 1:: (I) We Walk Street A street segment designed to exclude vehicular usage, for pedestrians and non- motorized transportation. Local Sidewalk :, Local sidewalks provide contiguous and level walking space primarily on low-volume residential streets. Wide Sidewalk , Wide sidewalks provide adequate space for a frontage zone, pedestrian zone, and buffer/planters on commercial streets. Priority Sidewalk Priority sidewalks are facilities essential to providing a safe, accessible, and well - connected pedestrian network. Multi -use Path y . ir'. A two-way facility separated from motor vehicles (adjacent to or independent of roadways) for use by pedestrians, joggers, skaters, and bicyclists. C Shared Roadway u•- A street segment that functions as a space for multiple users and intermittently as a gathering space, without delineations for each mode. Bike Lane Bike lanes provide preferential or exclusive use of a portion of the roadway for bicyclists through striping or markings. 9 p 9 9• + dSharrows t) u m Sharrows combine bicycle stencils with chevrons placed in the center of a travel lane. They bring awareness to drivers that bicycles share the lane and "may use full lane." Bike Boulevard Bike boulevards allow for bicyclists and motorists to share the same travel lanes to facilitate safe and convenient bicycle travel. They are low-volume streets optimized for bicyclists and pedestrians. 14 '` Local Trolle :._.. y A local electric or zero emissions trolley, in coordination with parking facilities, provides enhanced access to the beach and Downtown. Q , EV + Bike Parking Electric vehicle and bike parking facilities support the use of alternative modes to key destinations. Crossing Control Crossing control facilities (stop sign, signal, traffic circle) ensure efficient and safe intersections for all travel modes. vs ..� ;. Parking District District -based parking helps to manage parking supply and more efficiently use space dedicated for parking. PLAN HERMOSA 1 129 Figure 3.7 Intended Street Classifications hermasa beach o!. alleyway • local street ga o minor arterial major arterial .4 _j city limits coastal zone o ,. .fl 0 400' 600' 0" 1" 2" 130 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • Figure 3.8 Intended Pedestrian Facilities 0' fit esf wide sidewalk priority sidewalk m wlocal sidewalk PLAN HERMOSA I 131 Figure 3.9 Intended Bicycle and Multi -Use Facilities hermosa beach shared roadway multi -use path or buffered bike lane 132 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • Figure 3.10 Intended Transportation Amenities • • ti Sth Std z _ N i w C 1.,/ I city limits c coastal zone hermosa beach off-street parking N N ` parking district ev/nev parking - 4. crossing control C c X._ bike parking a beach trolley 1 _ �.,.a 400' 800' PLAN HERMOSA 1 133 Figure 3.11 Intended Safe Routes to School Network schools `, safe routes to school network stop signs signals * school access points 134 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • Benefits of a Multi -Modal Transportation System • A comprehensive multi -modal transportation system is critical in Hermosa Beach's urbanized environment where there is both a growing desire for additional transportation choice, and limited street right of way to expand streets for more vehicles and parking. By creating a high-quality multi -modal transportation network in Hermosa Beach, there are many co -benefits including a range of economic, health, sustainability, and safety benefits, all of which contribute to the high quality of life in Hermosa Beach. Quality of Life. A diversified transportation system increases the quality of life for Hermosa Beach residents, businesses, and visitors. It gives users the option to walk, bike, or take transit, rather than sit in traffic, while simultaneously reducing congestion for those that need or want to drive. It leads to a higher quality urban environment where people can spend time outside and be physically active on streets that aren't dominated by auto traffic, congestion, and parking, including the noise, pollution, and stress that comes with driving. Public Health. Walkable communities generally have lower rates of obesity, heart disease, fewer air quality issues, and higher levels of physical activity by residents. Bicycling also brings significant health benefits. Active transportation options are especially important for seniors and children, two groups particularly vulnerable to health complications related to a sedentary lifestyle. Sustainability. Less auto use means less air pollution, soil and water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Today and into the future, autos and trucks will continue to emit significant amounts of pollutants. These pollutants undermine our air quality, flow into our storm drains, and coat our streets, buildings, and open spaces. In addition, transportation is responsible for the greatest proportion of greenhouse gas emissions in the city (54% as of 2010). By providing a range of sustainable transportation choices, Hermosa Beach can reduce its impacts on the environment, both locally and globally. LI QUALITY OF LIFE PUBLIC HEALTH SUSTAINABILITY WI ECONOMIC VITALITY C. PUBLIC SAFETY Economic Vitality. There is a connection between a multi -modal transportation system and the economic vitality of a place. Many people are attracted to environments that are walkable, bikeable, and accessible by public transit. For example, creating attractive and pedestrian - friendly shopping areas draws people to commercial corridors and into the public realm that might otherwise drive through without stopping. Studies show that commercial and residential districts with walkable and bikeable streets have higher real estate values and sales than comparable auto -oriented districts. Public Safety. One of the principal tenets of the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design concept is "natural surveillance" by designing the built environment to maximize the number of eyes on the street and public spaces. By increasing the amount of bicycle and pedestrian activity, streets and public spaces are increasingly visible and foster positive social interaction among legitimate users of the space, making potential offenders feel increased scrutiny and limitations on their escape routes. PLAN HERMOSA I 135 Goals and Policies The community's unified vision for the future of mobility in Hermosa Beach was established through close collaboration among Hermosa residents and City staff. Through a series of public outreach, workshops, and community meetings, the City has framed what residents have prioritized as key objectives that will guide potential changes and improvements to the City's existing transportation system. To help the community achieve its vision of a robust, balanced, and multimodal transportation network, the Mobility Element is organized around goals to improve safety, enhance access, and support greater choice in transportation options. To address changing trends in travel preferences, vehicles types, fuel prices, and community demographics, Hermosa's transportation choices will be formed by the need for flexible and resilient options that will help the city thrive. Hermosa's approach to transportation will play a key role in promoting and maintaining the economic, social, and environmental health of the community for generations to come. Goal 1. Complete Streets that serve the diverse functions of mobility, commerce, recreation, and community engagement for all users whether they travel by walking, bicycling, transit, or driving. Providing well developed and people -oriented streets that are convenient, safe, connected, and integrated with adjacent land uses will play an integral role in supporting the city's economic vitality, livability, sustainability, and local culture by providing residents and visitors with enhanced accessibility and mobility opportunities into the future. Policies 1.1 Consider all modes. Require the planning, design, and construction of all new and existing transportation projects to consider the needs of all modes of travel to create safe, livable and inviting environments for all users of the system. 1.2 Street Classification design standards. Create context -sensitive street classification design standards that will provide the City and adjacent land uses with consistent designs that accommodate multiple modes of travel. 1.3 Monitor best practices. Consider applying the latest state of best practices in the design, operation, and maintenance of the transportation network that is both attractive and functional. 1.4 Target investments. Target public streetscape and infrastructure investments in locations with high potential for both public and private return on investment and long-term community value. 136 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • • • • Goal 2. A public realm that is safe, comfortable, and convenient for travel via foot, bicycle, public transit, and automobile and creates vibrant, people - oriented public spaces that encourage active living. Public right-of-ways are shared resources used by the community and visitors every day. Changes to the public infrastructure will be aesthetically pleasing, ecologically healthy, and both practical and functional to allow the City opportunities to create communal spaces where residents and visitors can interact and engage with the local community. Landscaping and tree canopies will be preserved and enhanced to improve air quality and provide shade. Redesigned roadways will serve drivers as well as active transportation travelers and adjacent land uses will create an environment where people of all ages and physical abilities feel comfortable using any mode of travel, whether it be walking, bicycling, using public transit, or driving. Policies 2.1 Prioritize public right-of-ways. Prioritize improvements of public right-of-ways that provide heightened levels of safe, comfortable and attractive public spaces for all non -motorized travelers while balancing the needs of efficient vehicular circulation. 2.2 Encourage traffic calming. Encourage traffic calming policies and techniques to improve the safety and efficient movement of people and vehicles along residential areas and highly trafficked corridors. 2.3 Directional signage. Provide directional signage that helps travelers navigate to transit facilities, local and regional bicycle routes, civic and cultural amenities, parking infrastructures and visitor and recreation destinations. 2.4 Sustainable landscape. Use consistent and sustainable landscape and streetscape designs that reflect the city's community identity; showcase local assets and the community's unique and vibrant culture. 2.5 Require sustainable practices. Incorporate environmental sustainability practices into designs and strategic management of road space and public right-of-ways, prioritizing practices that can serve multiple infrastructure purposes. 2.6 Safe east -west connections. Strive to provide safe and convenient east -west connections for pedestrians and bicycles throughout the city roughly every one-quarter mile (roughly every four to six blocks) and evaluate the costs, safety, and engineering considerations of various segment options. PLAN HERMOSA I 137 Goal 3. Public right-of-ways supporting a multimodal and people -oriented transportation system that provides diversity and flexibility on how users choose to be mobile. Planning for a more efficient multimodal mobility network will provide opportunities to explore innovative solutions and serve all types of users. Solutions will consider a variety of transportation improvement options for all modes and include management strategies and land use practices aimed towards increasing network connections, improving connections between different modes, and maximizing public health benefits. Policies 3.1 Enhance public right-of-ways. Where right-of-way clearance allows, enhance public right-of- ways to improve connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists, disabled persons, and public transit stops. 3.2 Complete pedestrian network. Prioritize investment in designated priority sidewalks to ensure a complete network of sidewalks and pedestrian -friendly amenities that enhances pedestrian safety, access opportunities and connectivity to destinations. 3.3 Active transportation. Require commercial development or redevelopment projects and residential projects with four or more units to accommodate active transportation by providing on-site amenities, necessary connections to adjacent existing and planned pedestrian and bicycle networks, and incorporate people -oriented design practices. 3.4 Access opportunities. Provide enhanced mobility and access opportunities for local transportation and transit services in areas of the city with sufficient density and intensity of uses, mix of appropriate uses, and supportive bicycle and pedestrian network connections that can reduce vehicle trips within the city's busiest corridors. 3.5 Incentivize other modes. Incentivize local shuttle/trolley services, rideshare and car share programs, and developing infrastructure that support low carbon (e.g. electric) vehicles. 3.6 Complete bicycle network. Provide a complete bicycle network along all designated roadways while creating connections to other modes of travel including walking and transit. 3.7 Transportation project considerations. Ensure transportation planning projects provide consideration to access, health and safety, and individual responsibility that enhances the quality of life of residents in the community. 3.8 Encourage shared streets. Encourage the concept of shared streets on low volume streets with limited right-of-ways. 3.9 Access for emergency vehicles. Ensure that emergency vehicles have secure and convenient access to the city's street network. 3.10 Require ADA standards. Require that all public right-of-ways be designed per Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards by incorporating crosswalks, curb ramps, pedestrian signals, and other components to provide ease of access for disabled persons. 3.11 Site specific conditions. Evaluate and incorporate any site specific conditions or restrictions on public property or right-of-ways during the design and engineering phases for pedestrian and bicycle facilities. 3.12 Right of way standards. Establish and maintain right of way standards and inventory sidewalks to assist in consistently applying roadway and sidewalk design standards. 138 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • • Goal 4. A parking system that meets the parking needs and demand of residents, visitors, and employees in an efficient and cost- effective manner. With emphasis on residential parking needs, public and shared parking supply, and seasonal peak parking demands, services need not be one size fits all. Innovative parking supply solutions will be used to provide a variety of services tailored to different users in addition to adopting policies that will incentivize targeted business and commercial development of shared parking solutions. Policies 4.1 Shared parking. Facilitate park -once and shared parking policies among private developments that contribute to a shared parking supply and interconnect with adjacent parking facilities. 4.2 Encourage coastal access. Ensure parking facilities and costs of such facilities are not a barrier to beach access by the public. 4.3 Reduce impacts. Reduce spillover parking impacts due to employee parking and seasonal and event -based demands. 4.4 Preferential parking program. Periodically study and evaluate the current inventory of public parking supply and update the preferential parking program. 4.5 Sufficient bicycle parking. Require a sufficient supply of bicycle parking to be provided in conjunction with new vehicle parking facilities by both public and private developments. 4.6 Priority parking. Provide priority parking and charging stations to accommodate the use of Electric Vehicles (EV's), including smaller short -distance neighborhood electric vehicles. 4.7 Parking availability. Optimize parking availability through dynamically adjusted pricing and new technology to manage available spaces for short-term parking use to encourage rates of turnover that are responsive to fluctuating demands. 4.8 Ensure commercial parking. Ensure that prime commercial parking spaces are available for customers and other short-term users throughout the day. 4.9 Encourage TDM strategies. Encourage use of transportation demand management strategies and programs such as carpooling, ride hailing, and alternative transportation modes as a way to reduce demand for additional parking supply. 4.10 Visitor parking information. Manage information about passes and accessing public parking lots to facilitate use by longer -distance visitors with limited transportation choices. 4.11 Consolidated parking facilities. Consider the development of new small-scale parking structures or shared facilities outside of the Downtown core and incorporate adaptability standards so that they may serve other uses in the future. PLAN HERMOSA I 139 Goal 5. A robust low cost and low carbon transportation system that promotes the City's environmental sustainability and stewardship goals in support of social and economic objectives. Aimed at reducing transportation -related environmental impacts, the development of a multimodal transportation network allows travelers the flexibility of choosing sustainable and low cost transportation choices that promote and improve public health, environmental quality, and overall quality of life. Low or no carbon travel options will be supported by the City, and barriers to their use will be addressed through the City's transportation investments. Affordable transportation solutions will be supported by the City to ensure mobility for all members of the community and to maintain access to goods and services for older residents to age in place. Policies 5.1 Prioritize development of infrastructure. Prioritize the development of roadway and parking infrastructure that encourages private electric and other low carbon vehicle ownership and use throughout the city. 5.2 Local transit system. Develop a local transit system that facilitates efficient transport of residents, hotel guests, and beach goers between activity centers, and to Downtown businesses and the beach. 5.3 Incentivize TDM strategies. Incentivize the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies as a cost effective method for maximizing existing transportation infrastructure to accommodate mobility demands without significant expansion to infrastructure. 5.4 Evaluate projects. Ensure the evaluation of projects for transportation and traffic impacts under CEQA consider local and statewide goals related to infill development, the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles through active transportation, and the reduction of greenhouse gases, in addition to traditional congestion management impacts. 5.5 Multimodal development features. Encourage land use features in development projects to create compact, connected, and multimodal development that supports reduced trip generation, trip lengths, and greater ability to utilize alternative modes of travel. 140 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • Goal 6. A regionally integrated transportation system that provides local and regional connections to regional transit services, bicycle facilities, and other inter -modal facilities. The City will take advantage of improved street connectivity and resulting reductions in travel distances between destinations, enhanced local and regional accessibility through increasing route options for a variety of travel modes, and improved overall walking and bicycling conditions to support and encourage regional connections for all modes. Policies 6.1 Regional network. Work with government agencies and private sector companies to develop a comprehensive, regionally integrated transportation network that connects the community to surrounding cities. 6.2 Regional travel patterns. Consider regional travel patterns when collaborating on regional transit and transportation projects to ensure investments facilitate greater mobility and access for residents, businesses, and visitors to and from Hermosa Beach. 6.3 Transportation sharing programs. Facilitate greater local and regional mobility through programs for shared equipment or transportation options such as car sharing and bike sharing. 6.4 Coordinate with agencies. Coordinate with regional transportation agencies and surrounding cities to improve local access and connections to regional public transit services. 6.5 Coordinate with surrounding cities. Coordinate with surrounding cities to prioritize non - motorized and pedestrian connections to regional facilities and surrounding cities. 6.6 Greater utilization of BCT. Consider exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Beach Cities Transit system for improved mobility along major corridors and as a potential means of improved regional transit connections. 6.7 Pick-up and drop-off zones. Identify and designate safe and convenient drop-off and pick- up zones citywide for ridesharing(including autonomous vehicles), beach loading/unloading, taxis and similar services. PLAN HERMOSA I' 141 Goal 7. A transportation system that results in zero transportation -related fatalities and which minimizes injuries. As the rate of walking and bicycling continue to rise, providing a transportation system that safely meets the needs of people driving and more vulnerable street users becomes increasingly important. Strategies and improved designs will be aimed at reducing safety risks and ensuring continued economic and social well being of all people using the streets in Hermosa. Policies 7.1 Safe public right-of-ways. Encourage that all public right-of-ways are safe for all users at all times of day where users of all ages and ability feel comfortable participating in both motorized and non -motorized travel. 7.2 Manage speeds. Monitor vehicle speeds through traffic controls, speed limits, and design features with the intended purpose of minimizing vehicle accidents, creating a pedestrian and bicycle environment, and discouraging cut -through traffic. 7.3 Provide street lighting. Provide pedestrian -oriented specific street lighting for enhanced pedestrian and bicycling safety on all minor and major arterial streets. 7.4 Traffic safety programs. Prioritize traffic safety programs oriented towards safe access to schools and community facilities that focus on walking, biking, and driving in school zones. 7.5 Appropriate sidewalk widths. Encourage design and construction plans that incorporate sidewalks that are consistent in width to match pedestrian activity. 7.6 Pro -active traffic enforcement. Conduct pro -active traffic enforcement along streets where high collision rates, high speeds, and other unsafe behaviors are reported. 7.7 Formalize City procedures. Encourage formalizing City procedures for analysis and evaluation of crosswalks and crossing locations citywide, and adopt state -of -practice pedestrian improvement guidance aimed at increasing pedestrian safety. 7.8 Active transportation education and safety. Promote the participation in pedestrian, bicycle, and skateboard safety and education programs to facilitate safe and confident use of alternative modes of transportation. • 142 I CHAPTER 3: MOBILITY • Goal 8. Facilitate sustainable, effective, and safe movement of goods and commercial vehicles. With commerce and provision of goods an essential component to the economic vitality of Hermosa Beach, it is necessary to ensure that commercial vehicles are expressly allowed and provided efficient access and circulation to businesses. However, when commercial vehicles are not properly operated, they can have detrimental effects on the environment enjoyed by nearby residents, business customers, and public spaces by contributing noise, air pollution, and reduced safety. Hermosa Beach is committed to promoting the commercial movement of goods and service vehicles in and around Hermosa Beach in a manner that protects the health, safety and well- being of residents and the environment. Policies 8.1 Minimize truck impacts. Maintain and regularly re-evaluate the designation of truck routes to minimize the negative impacts of trucking through the city. 8.2 Prohibit excessive idling. Discourage commercial vehicles from excessive idling during deliveries and while parked. 8.3 Commercial loading zones. Encourage businesses to provide commercial loading zones on- site where possible, or in the adjacent public right-of-way in a manner that balances the needs of businesses with the impact on traffic conditions and at appropriate delivery times. 8.4 Utilize alleys. Encourage alleys for access for parking, delivery loading/unloading and trash collection and, where possible, provide additional green space and pedestrian amenities. 8.5 Utilize technology. Encourage commercial vehicles to utilize technologies that minimize air pollution, fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions. 8.6 Prohibit mobile advertising. Consider prohibiting mobile advertising, such as moving billboards, to avoid unnecessary traffic congestion, noise, and air pollution. 8.7 Transportation network company zones. Work with the city's transportation network company service providers (e.g. taxis, rideshare companies) to establish safe and convenient pick up/drop off zones. PLAN HERMOSA 1 143 '77��^_ ^— -�����``� '`` ' . ` ' -- '-, - -, ' ^ - This page intentionally left blank. • Resources such as energy and water are essential elements for sustaining a healthy : life, and consumption and deterioration of these resources can have widespread health, environmental, and economic effects. A resource efficient and low-carbon • : community are key to addressing the negative effects of climate change by reducing ecologically disruptive greenhouse gas emissions into our atmosphere and through numerous energy and resource conservation measures. This chapter embraces : the conservation of natural resources through goals and policies targeting water • conservation, energy conservation, green building, air quality, and recycling and : solid waste. Like so many topics in this Plan, these conservation-oriented practices : have secondary community benefits. Using less electricity and increasing reliance on renewable energy can lead to reduced power plant-related air pollutants. Using : drought tolerant landscape materials can reduce runoff and reduce water pollutants • in Santa Monica Bay. Green building techniques can improve indoor air quality and improve occupant respiratory health. PLAN HERMOSA I 145 State Law This Sustainability + Conservation Element has been prepared to meet State General Plan law requirements for conservation, and additionally to meet California Coastal Act requirements related to wetlands and waterways. General Plan State law requires all general plans to contain a conservation element to address the conservation, development and utilization of natural resources. Natural resources identified by statute include waters, forests, soils, wildlife, minerals, and other energy resources. Specific components covered in this Element: • Must consider the effect of development on natural resources - including water, forests, soils, rivers and other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals - located on public lands. • Must develop the water -related portion of the conservation element in coordination with water agencies - including flood management, water conservation, or groundwater agencies - which develop, serve, control, manage, or conserve water within the jurisdiction. • May cover the reclamation of land and waters. May cover the prevention and control of pollution of streams and other waters, the regulation of the use of land in stream channels, the prevention, control, and correction of the erosion of soils, beaches, and shores, and the protection of watersheds. May cover the location, quantity, and quality of the rock, sand, and gravel resources. Must utilize urban water management plan(s) submitted by a water agency. Coastal Land Use Plan Additionally, the Coastal Land Use Plan should incorporate the following components of the California Coastal Act related to sustainability and resource conservation: Define wetlands in a manner that is consistent with Coastal Act Sections 30121 and 13577(b) and guarantee that the condition of the wetland does not affect its regulatory status as a wetland. Identify allowable uses that may result in the diking, filling, or dredging of wetlands, lakes, and open coastal waters only when consistent with Coastal Act Section 30233. Provide mitigation measures for unavoidable impacts of recreational beach loss from permitted development. Climate Change in California California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) directed the California Air Resources Board to develop rules and regulations necessary to achieve statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and emissions limits equivalent to 1990 levels by 2020. The AB 32 Scoping Plan includes energy efficiency measures, regional transportation -related greenhouse gas emissions targets, a renewable portfolio standard, a cap -and -trade program, a light-duty vehicle standard, and a low carbon fuel standard. The Scoping Plan also recognizes the essential partnership between State, regional, and local governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Local governments have authority over activities that produce both direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions through land use planning and zoning, general permitting, local ordinances, and municipal operations. Therefore, many of the strategies outlined in the Scoping Plan require local government action. Signed by Governor Brown in April 2015, Executive Order B-30-15, provides an interim target for the State of California to reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, as a basis for guiding regulatory policy and investments in California and to ensure California remains on track to meet the longer term goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. 146 1 CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION • Context • Greenhouse Gas Emissions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified a need to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius or less by 2050 to avoid potentially catastrophic climate change impacts. Recognizing this critical tipping point, and knowing that the impacts of climate change are already being felt in California and will disproportionately impact the State's most vulnerable populations, the State has established a long term goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. To meet these emissions goals, California has set specific time -bound reduction targets, through legislation and executive order, including the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), Executive Order S-3-05, and Executive Order B-30-10. While many Federal and State regulations are focused on industry and sector - wide changes to renewable energy production and fuel efficiency standards, which will help to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions, there are additional requirements for local policy and action. In general, there are two sets of strategies to cope with climate change: mitigation and adaptation. Mitigation strategies attempt to stop future warming by lowering the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, or capturing emitted greenhouse gases prior to release into the atmosphere. Examples of mitigation strategies include planting trees to absorb carbon dioxide from the air, increasing vehicle fuel efficiency to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted per mile driven, and conserving electricity to lower greenhouse gas emissions from energy production. While mitigation efforts may curb some greenhouse gas emissions, these efforts are unlikely to halt climate change entirely, requiring some adaptation (see Public Safety Element for climate change adaptation strategies). The City of Hermosa Beach understands the role each community must play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order to avoid catastrophic impacts of a changing climate, both globally and locally. The City of Hermosa Beach is committed to being a leader and innovator in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as a municipal organization and as a community, in ways that simultaneously support the community's livability and economic vitality goals. Hermosa Beach Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories In 2014, the South Bay Cities Council of Governments received funding to conduct an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions generated by each community within the region, including Hermosa Beach. The inventory looks at community sources, as well as sources generated by the City as a municipal organization for the years of 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012. The inventories identify the sources of GHG emissions generated by energy use, transportation, water and wastewater related energy use, and waste disposal. Community GHG Emissions • Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions generated by Hermosa Beach activities, representing approximately 54% of total emissions. • The community of Hermosa Beach decreased emissions 7.7% from 2005 to 2012, from 137,160 MTCO2e to 126,611 MTCO2e. • Under the Adjusted Business -as -Usual (BAU) forecast, emissions will be 111,690 MTCO2e in 2020 and 94,162 MTCO2e in 2035. These emissions levels are 19% lower in 2020 than 2005 and 31% lower than 2005 by 2035. Figure 4.1 Community GHG Emissions 2005-2012 160,000 140,000 120,000 • 100,000 G) o 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 137,160 132,768 127,889 ----126,611 2005 (MTCO2e) 2007 (MTCO2e) 2010 (MTCO2e) 2012 (MTCO2e) • On -road transportation • Residential Energy • Commercial Energy ■ Solid Waste • Wastewater • Water ■ Off -Road Sources PLAN HERMOSA I 147 Table 4.1 Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions for 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012 ector4 On -road transportation 2005MTCOze 1' t - " 73,567 A, ( 2to grsi ..ir 71,863 F�x , (,; X70,277 20 (MTCO�e „ $4) 68,235 2 0. 2012 ._.._,_..._ -7% Residential Energy 32,293 31,964 32,700 33,808 5% Commercial Energy 20,280 19,792 18,372 17,830 -12% Solid Waste 6,015 4,584 3,510 3,334 -45% Water 4,065 3,942 2,552 2,600 -36% Off -Road Sources 888 588 419 745 -16% Wastewater 52 35 59 59 13% Total 137,160 132,768 127,889 126,611 -8% % Change from 2005 -3% -7% -8% Source: South Bay Cities Council of Governments, 2010. Municipal GHG Emissions • Greenhouse gas emissions from municipal operations are generally more distributed across activities, ranging from 11% - 24%. • Municipal emissions have decreased 9% from 2005 to 2012, from 1,501 MTCO2e to 1,372 MTCO2e. • Emissions in the Employee Commute, Outdoor Lights -City Owned, and Solid Waste sectors decreased between 2005 and 2012 while Vehicle Fleet & Equipment, Buildings and Facilities and SCE -Owned Outdoor Lights increased during the same time period. ot° Jgrt a Figure 4.2 Municipal GHG Emissions 2005-2012 0 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 1,541 1,339 1,372 2005 (MTCO2e) 2007 (MTCO2e) 2010 (MTCO2e) 2012 (MTCO2e) ■ Buildings & Facilities ■ Fleet and Equipment • Outdoor Lights - SCE Owned • Employee Commute • Outdoor Lights - City Owned ■ Solid Waste ■ Water Pumping and Irrigation Gst\es eGr 6°Q\d steI I to AO' V.1 Poi`°O tatG� �o` `�o�oe ac `cp G4G` J gSt�ee °`,c`I da eaJG',`°o Qto �Se Ot $e g\ tQ e t oo\G�t`es otet�g �e�t kketo�G�`\`� S°qtr a\��' ��ed��\ee so\�a�d5t 2006 2010 2011 2011 148 ( CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION 2013 2014 • Recent Efforts to Reduce Emissions • As illustrated in the inventory of greenhouse gas emissions, the City and the community have initiated several recent planning efforts and policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from both community activities and municipal operations. Recent efforts include: Cool Cities Program: The City Council became a participant in the 'Cool Cities Program' in 2006. The 'Cities for Climate Protection' Campaign helps local governments to adopt policies and implement changes that reduce local emissions, improve air quality, and enhance urban livability. Water Conservation: The City adopted a Water Conservation and Drought Management Ordinance in 2010. Hermosa Beach Sustainability Plan: The City's Green Task Force prepared the Sustainability Plan in 2011, which outlines actions to reduce emissions. South Bay Bicycle Master Plan, Beach Cities Livability Plan, Living Streets Policy: Adopted in 2011 these plans and policies promote active transportation and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. Clean Fleet Policy and Action Plan: The City Council adopted a Clean Fleet Policy and Action Plan on June 11, 2013 with a goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions for the City fleet and alternative fuels for 100% of contracted City service vehicles. 6V��a`e`a� aeS o�c, Go a`Gate ``a��4oote $$311 Solid waste reduction: In October of 2014 Governor Brown signed AB 1826 requiring businesses to recycle their organic waste, and phasing in the mandatory recycling of commercial organics over time. Organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food -soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste. Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan: The City Council accepted the Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan in 2015 and adopted a goal to be carbon neutral by 2020 for municipal facilities and operations. The Plan identified a pathway to achieve this goal through a combination of implementation measures and offset purchases. Green Building Codes and Low Impact Development Ordinances: In 2015, City Council accepted the Enhanced Watershed Management Plan for the South Bay beach Cities that was proceeded by the adoption of a Green Streets Policy and Low -Impact Development Ordinance. Renewable energy Incentives: The City is a participant in Energy Upgrade California and several Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs that can be used by residents and businesses. The City provides incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in various sectors. Beacon Award Program: The City is a participant in this program which recognizes California cities and counties that are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy and adopt policies and programs that promote sustainability. aG'l CP Qo�\G�oo�Ges ec94 eels Old `e e' PS{� e�� dap LI le\oP� Reye Oe caQt0' 1\ P,1a G(31` lea 2015 2015 2015 Ongoing PLAN HERMOSA I 149 Air Quality Air quality, which is both a local and regional issue, is an important contributor to health and quality of life and determinant in rates of asthma, respiratory disease and some cancers. The majority of air- borne emissions in Hermosa Beach are attributable to mobile sources from major roadways including PCH, Artesia Boulevard, and Aviation Boulevard, as well as major Freeways, shipping ports (Long Beach and Los Angeles), and airports. In addition to mobile sources, stationary sources may also contribute to air pollution within the city such as refineries in surrounding cities. Although these sources have the potential to affect air pollution within the city, these sources are regulated by SCAQMD permitting process to minimize pollutant emissions and impacts to sensitive uses. Indoor air quality can also include contaminants from building materials or other pollutants. Air quality can also be influenced by very localized conditions such as the presence of cigarette smoke. In 2012, the City of Hermosa Beach launched the Healthy Air Hermosa initiative creating a smoke-free environment at public outdoor gathering spaces such as Pier Plaza. In 2016, the Healthy Air Hermosa initiative was further expanded to limit smoking from all public spaces throughout Hermosa Beach including the beach, parks, and city sidewalks. Energy Resources Residential and nonresidential (businesses, industrial processes, government operations) activities in Hermosa Beach such as building heating and cooling, lighting, and appliance operation require electricity and natural gas. Energy is generated over large areas by many different sources, so tracking the specific source of energy used in any one place can be difficult. Energy that is not generated at a facility by an energy provider can be purchased from other producers and transmitted to the energy user through energy transmission networks. Energy sources used in Hermosa Beach include hydroelectric, waste -to - energy transformation, geothermal, solar, wind, coal, natural gas, and nuclear. Electricity within the planning area is provided by Southern California Edison, while natural gas is supplied by the Southern California Gas Company. The City is required to implement the California Building Code, including Title 24 energy efficiency requirements, which govern the design and construction of buildings to achieve safety and sustainability in new and remodeled development. 150 I CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION In addition, the City's Building Code requires sustainable practices for new development and replacement of buildings. The Municipal Carbon Neutral Plan adopted in 2015 identified Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) as a powerful tool for reducing GHG emissions from energy use. Community Choice Aggregation enables local governments to aggregate electricity demand within their jurisdictions in order to procure alternative renewable energy supplies while maintaining the existing electricity provider for transmission and distribution services. Green Building Green building concepts can be incorporated into site and building design to reduce energy use, improve aesthetics and comfort, and provide a more cost-effective means of living. Six concepts of green building can help conserve energy and preserve the environment: • Sustainable sites • Water efficiency • Energy and atmosphere • Minerals and resources • Indoor environmental quality • Innovation and design process • The majority of building permit activity in Hermosa Beach consists of remodels, renovations, and tenant improvements. The City and utility providers offer rebates and incentives for residents and businesses to reduce their water and energy use. Water Conservation _ Water service is provided by California ;oma Water Service's Hermosa -Redondo District using groundwater, imported surface water, and recycled supplies. Groundwater satisfies between 10% and 15% of the water demand in any given year, while recycled water generally makes up approximately 1 percent of the total water served. The remainder of the water supply provided to Hermosa Beach is purchased from West Basin Municipal Water District which utilizes imported water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and the California State Water Project, as well as groundwater supplies in Southern California. The District supplied 14,563 acre-feet per year (AFY) in 2010 and foresees that with additional anticipated conservation measures will have demand for 16,152 AFY by 2040. In response to recent drought conditions, the City has adopted a 'Water Conservation and Drought Management Ordinance' that applies to the use of water by individuals, households and businesses. It also • • applies to installation of various devices. Hermosa Beach residents have also engaged in educational competitions, like the Wyland Water Challenge, committing to further conservation of water at both an individual and community wide scale. Solid Waste + Recycling More than half of the solid waste generated by Hermosa Beach residents, businesses, and visitors is diverted from local landfills through recycling and reuse. Solid waste disposal services in Hermosa Beach are provided by a franchise waste hauler. Solid waste is hauled to a regional Waste Materials Recovery Facility, where it is sorted and recycled. Waste materials are then transported to a variety of landfills throughout the region. Residential hazardous waste disposal is available at a facility operated by the City of Los Angeles in Playa Del Rey. Additionally, the City organizes a variety of education and outreach opportunities to the community, including events to collect household hazardous waste, shredding, and composting. To comply with State Law, the City is required to create a waste management plan that promotes waste source reduction, recycling and composting, • and environmentally safe transformation and disposal to help achieve the statewide goal that at least 75% of solid waste generated in California be source -reduced, recycled, or composted by the year 2020. The Sustainability Plan waste reduction and recycling programs focus on characterizing the municipal and community waste streams, providing a comprehensive recycling and diversion program, providing green waste recycling and backyard composting programs, considering a food waste diversion program, improving multi- family residential recycling options and household hazardous waste programs, and setting a "zero - waste" goal for the community. Regional Geology Hermosa Beach is located at the qm' southwest end of Santa Monica Bay, with rolling hills ranging in elevation from sea level in the west to about 200 feet above sea level at inland locations. The planning area is located along the southwestern margin of the Los Angeles Basin and Coastal Plain. The Los Angeles Basin is bounded by the Santa Monica, San Gabriel, and Santa Ana Mountains to the north and east, and the Pacific Ocean and Palos • Verdes Hills to the west and south. It is filled with sedimentary deposits up to 35,000 feet thick, and since the basin was submerged beneath the ocean until approximately five million years ago, much of the sediment is marine deposits. Beneath multiple layers of alluvial deposits, stratified sands, sandstone, and siltstone are offshore oil reservoirs. Soil Erosion Soil erosion is a normal process whereby Qo% earth materials are loosened, worn away, decomposed, or dissolved and are moved from one place to another by water, wind, and gravity. While erosion is naturally a slow process, acceleration can occur from the steepening of slopes, removal of ground cover, paving, and other human activities associated with construction and landscaping. For example, hillside construction often requires land grading activities that can result in steeper slopes, which are more prone to soil erosion. Preparing land for construction can also remove ground cover, exposing soils to wind erosion. Accelerated erosion within an urban area can cause damage by undermining structures, blocking storm sewers, and depositing sand or mud in roads and tunnels. Eroded materials are eventually deposited into coastal waters where the carried silt remains suspended for some time, polluting the water and altering the normal balance of plant and animal life. Potential issues involving soils, such as the potential for soil expansion or corrosion, are analyzed on a project -by -project basis. Mineral Resources California's Surface Mining and moi Reclamation Act directs the classification and mapping of regionally significant mineral resource zones (MRZs). The State and City are then required to designate future uses within such areas that maintain or preserve mineral resources to meet the region's future need for construction quality aggregates. The entirety of Hermosa Beach is classified as Mineral Resource Zone 3 (MRZ-3) under the California Mineral Land Classification System. In MRZ-3 areas, mineral resources are present, but the significance of the resource is considered speculative because mining has not historically occurred in the area. Additionally, since most of the area has been developed, mining activities would not be feasible. Subsurface oil deposits are also present in Hermosa Beach. However, in March 2015, the City's populace voted, at a rate of four to one, against Measure 0, upholding the prohibition of oil drilling within the City of Hermosa Beach. If Measure 0 is overturned at some point in the future, additional measures would be needed to mitigate potential environmental and health hazards associated with oil extraction. PLAN HERMOSA I 151 Goals and Policies A primary objective of this Plan is to set Hermosa Beach on a path toward a low carbon future. To achieve that objective, it is essential that greenhouse gas reducing measures are integrated throughout this Plan. Goals, policies, and actions specific to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from each activity sector, can be found throughout this element as well as the mobility, land use, parks and open space, and infrastructure elements. Goal 1. Hermosa Beach is a low -carbon municipal organization, reducing greenhouse gas emissions at a rate that meets or exceeds 80% below 2005 levels by 2030. Hermosa Beach has committed to taking a holistic approach to reduce municipal emissions, taking into consideration the health, air quality, disaster resilience, and economic benefits of taking actions to reducing GHG emissions. This approach ensures major planning decisions are evaluated in a transparent manner that evaluates the range of benefits in conjunction with the short and long-term costs or savings from implementing projects. Reducing GHG emissions in City facilities and operations demonstrate leadership and commitment to the broader community. Policies 1.1 Low -carbon municipality. Demonstrate environmental leadership and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from municipal facilities and operations by at least 80% below 2005 levels by 2030. 1.2 Highest return on investment. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously reduce ongoing operational costs to the City. 1.3 Align reductions with sources. Pursue a diverse mixture of greenhouse gas reduction strategies across the range of municipal activities that generate greenhouse gas emissions. 1.4 City leadership. Create a culture of leadership, innovation, and ingenuity to implement creative and cost-effective greenhouse gas reducing projects for City facilities and operations. 1.5 Seek grant funding. Support implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects through the use of grant funding, rebates, and other incentive opportunities. 1.6 Demonstration and pilot projects. Utilize demonstration and pilot projects as a means to evaluate the greenhouse gas reduction potential and cost effectiveness of projects. 1.7 Promotion of environmental efforts. Highlight the City's environmental efforts as a means to attract and encourage additional investment and new green and cleantech business enterprises. 1.8 Evaluation of progress reports. Regularly evaluate and provide reports on progress, at a minimum in 2020 and 2025, toward greenhouse gas reduction goals and project results. 1.9 Equipment sharing. Explore opportunities to share, lease, or jointly utilize equipment for City operations. 1.10 Health and economic benefits. Prioritize the implementation of GHG reduction projects that simultaneously provide the greatest economic and health benefits to the city. 152 I CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION Goal 2. Hermosa Beach is a low -carbon community meeting State greenhouse gas reduction goals by 2040. Climate change, ofi n cited as the environmental crisis of our generation, poses a threat to the safety, health and welfare of the community. The City of Hermosa Beach is committed to being a leader of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and has engaged in a number of innovative efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with State greenhouse gas reduction goals. Policies 2.1 State targets and goals. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions at a rate that meets long-term State targets and goals to reduce emissions by at least 66% below 2005 levels by 2040. 2.2 Health and economic benefits. Prioritize the implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects that simultaneously provide the greatest economic and health benefits to the community. 2.3 Grants and incentives. Seek additional sources of funding to support implementation of greenhouse gas reduction projects for the City, as well as residents and businesses. 2.4 Diversify GHG reduction strategies. Pursue a diverse mixture of greenhouse gas reduction strategies across the transportation, energy, waste sectors, commensurate with their share of the community's greenhouse gas emissions. 2.5 Land use and transportation investments. Promote land use and transportation investments that support greater transportation choice, greater local economic opportunity, and reduced number and length of automobile trips. 2.6 Greenhouse gas thresholds. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds for use in evaluating non-exempt discretionary projects consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and require projects above that threshold to substantially mitigate all feasible greenhouse gas emissions, and locally offset the remainder of greenhouse gas emissions produced to meet thresholds. 2.7 Emerging technologies. Regularly evaluate new and emerging technology changes that can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage the use of such technology when it is demonstrated to be effective at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and a fiscally responsible investment. PLAN HERMOSA 1 153 Goal 3. Improved air quality and reduced air pollution emissions. It is a well documented fact that poor air quality can contribute to respiratory health problems such as asthma, lung cancer, and respiratory diseases, therefore improving local air quality is an important public safety and health priority for the City. By proactively limiting stationary and mobile sources of air pollution, and supporting techniques and technologies that will improve air quality, Hermosa Beach can maintain its reputation as a clean and healthy place to live. Policies 3.1 Stationary and mobile sources. Seek to improve overall respiratory health for residents through regulation of stationary and mobile sources of air pollution, as feasible. 3.2 Mobile source reductions. Support land use and transportation strategies to reduce emissions, including pollution from commercial and passenger vehicles. 3.3 Fuel efficient fleets. Promote fuel efficiency and cleaner fuels for vehicles as well as construction and maintenance equipment by requesting that City contractors provide cleaner fleets. 3.4 Landscape equipment. Discourage the use of landscape equipment with two-stroke engines and publicize the benefits and importance of alternative technologies. 3.5 Clean fuels. Support increased local access to cleaner fuels and cleaner energy by encouraging fueling stations that provide cleaner fuels and energy to the community. 3.6 Healthy Air Hermosa. Maintain high quality outdoor and public spaces in Hermosa Beach through the Healthy Air Hermosa program, or subsequent programs which aim to reduce cigarette smoke. 3.7 Regional air quality. When possible, collaborate with other agencies within the region to improve air quality and meet or exceed State and Federal air quality standards through regional efforts to reduce air pollution from mobile sources, including trucks and passenger vehicles and other large polluters. 154 I CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION • Goal 4. A leader in reducing energy consumption and renewable energy production. The built environment has a profound impact on our natural environment, the economy, community health and well-being, and productivity. Green building, energy conservation, and renewable energy generation can help the community maintain valuable resources over the long term, cut utility costs for businesses and residents, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By encouraging both green building and energy conservation, the city can realize green and resource -efficient development and foster conservation behaviors that are essential to a low -carbon community. Policies 4.1 Renewable energy generation. Support or facilitate the installation of renewable energy projects on homes and businesses. 4.2 Retrofit program. Provide an energy retrofit program and incentives to assist home and building owners to make efficiency improvements. 4.3 Rental efficiency. Adopt a financing program to incentivize rental efficiency retrofits that benefit both the owner and tenant. • 4.4 Municipal facilities. Utilize renewable energy sources at City facilities. 4.5 Sustainable building standards. Use sustainable building checklists to minimize or eliminate waste and maximize recycling in building design, demolition, and construction activities. 4.6 Local partnerships. As a lead agency, partner with local businesses and organizations in an effort to secure grants and incentives that facilitate energy efficiency and renewable energy production. PLAN HERMOSA I155 aovrecycled water use, and innovative water technologies support a resource efficient community. Conserve the city's water supply and reduce the negative environmental impacts of water use through water efficiency, conservation, capture, and reuse. Goal 5. Water conservation practices, Policies 5.1 Recycled water facilities. Increase the availability of recycled water supply (i.e. purple pipes) and facilitate the installation of distribution facilities throughout the city to conserve potable water use. 5.2 Rainwater collection. Encourage innovative water recycling techniques such as rainwater capture and use of cisterns for outdoor watering purposes. 5.3 Water conservation programs. Update and improve water conservation and efficiency programs, requirements, and incentives on a regular basis. 5.4 Conservation behavior. Maximize water conservation and efficiency upgrades through education, regulation, and incentives covering every aspect of water use. 5.5 Greywater. Encourage the installation of greywater irrigation or disposal systems. 156 I CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION Goal 6. Hermosa Beach is a low or zero -waste community with convenient and effective options for recycling, composting, and diverting waste from landfills. California has set a statewide goal of reaching 75% source reduction, composting, and recycling by 2020. Reaching this State mandate is an obvious goal for the City. More importantly, the Hermosa Beach community has explicitly stated an independent commitment to continually strive to reduce waste and be an example of a sustainable, low -carbon community. Policies 6.1 Franchise agreements. Ensure waste franchise agreements and program offerings provide progressively higher rates of waste diversion. 6.2 Food waste collection. Ensure food waste collection is available and convenient for all residents, businesses, and organizations. 6.3 Multi -family and commercial recycling. Require the provision of convenient recycling options in multi -family residential and commercial uses, until single -stream services make it unnecessary to separate recycling from other materials. 6.4 Material source reduction. Support and enforce requirements to minimize the use of non - recyclable materials or materials commonly found on the beach, such as plastic bags and polystyrene. 6.5 Recycled materials. Encourage and support the sale of products that minimize packaging or are made from recycled materials. 6.6 Composting programs. Provide composting equipment at community facilities and events and encourage home and commercial composting. 6.7 Green purchasing. Evaluate "green purchasing" options across all City departments and consider the life cycle effects of purchases. 6.8 Recycled building materials. Where cost effective and structurally feasible, maximize the use of recycled building materials in new construction projects. 6.9 Building salvage. Maximize building salvage and deconstruction in remodeling or building demolition projects. 6.10 Evaluate recycling and waste diversion opportunities. Periodically evaluate and consider new opportunities to achieve greater waste diversion rates. PLAN HERMOSA I 157 Goal 7. Essential topsoil is retained and erosion is minimized. The land on which Hermosa Beach is set determines what types of uses can be supported, what hazards should be considered, and what mitigation should be completed when development occurs. The City strives to protect these resources, and to comply with regulatory requirements. Policies 7.1 Permeable pavement. Require the use of permeable pavement in parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, and other low -intensity paved areas. 7.2 Soil erosion. Utilize best management practices in grading and construction to minimize the amount of sediment running onto the street, drainage facilities, or adjacent properties. 158 I CHAPTER 4: SUSTAINABILITY + CONSERVATION Beautiful, accessible, and well maintained parks, open space, and recreation facilities, and quality recreational programs are essential amenities for Hermosa Beach. They : help create community and make the city more livable and attractive, provide a : place of relaxation and relief from the urban environment, encourage physical activity and health, provide a forum for gathering and interaction, and reduce urban heat : islands. Many urban areas - including Hermosa Beach - have both high demand for these amenities and limited options for providing them. This puts a premium on the parks and open space provided, and reinforces their importance. Parks and open : space play a key role in sustainability and contribute to the health and quality of life for the community. Open space is the primary land use that provides ecosystem services : within a community, providing for opportunities that range from groundwater recharge to food production to wildlife habitat. Additionally, parks and open space provide valuable recreational amenities to communities, leading to increased property values, : safety, economic activity, and better health. Over and above the State requirements, this Element includes policy guidance about recreational programming, beach management and special events, enhanced access to the coast, the protection of scenic views, natural habitats, and the urban forest. PLAN HERMOSA I 159 State Law This Parks and Open Space Element has been prepared to meet State General Plan law requirements for open space, and additionally to meet California Coastal Act requirements related to coastal access, scenic views, and environmentally sensitive habitat areas, and temporary events. Additionally, this Element incorporates context and policies to meet the California Endangered Species Act and the Quimby Park Fee Act. General Plan California General Plan Law requires an open space element to address the following topics: • Must identify any areas intended to preserve natural resources and any areas intended to manage the production of natural resources. • Must identify any areas intended to serve outdoor recreation needs, including links or access points to recreational areas. • Must identify any areas that, due to increased exposure to natural hazards, should not be occupied by buildings or structures. • Should identify the demands for trail -oriented recreational use. • Should identify publicly owned corridors (abandoned rail lines, utility corridors, easements) for future use as recreational trails and open space. • Should identify the potential integration of trail routes with regional and State segments of the California Recreational Trails System. Park Fees The collection of park and recreation facility fees are important to address within the General Plan. As part of approval of a final tract or parcel map, the California Quimby Act allows a city to require dedication of land, the payment of in -lieu fees, or a combination of both to be used for the provision of parks and recreational services. Cities can require land or in lieu fees for a minimum of 3 acres 160 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE per 1,000 residents, with the possibility of increasing the requirement to a maximum of 5 acres per 1,000 residents if the city already provides more than 3 acres per 1,000 residents. In Hermosa Beach, parks and recreation facility fees are assessed on new development applications and used solely for the acquisition, improvement, and expansion of public park, playground and/or recreation facilities. In recent years, the Capital Improvement Program has identified more than $700,000 for Park Improvement Projects. In comparison, the Park and Recreation In Lieu Fee was expected to collect approximately $200,000 on an annual basis. Coastal Land Use Plan The California Coastal Act requires that the City's Local Coastal Program contain specific coastal access and beach management components to "assure that maximum public access to the coastal and public recreation areas is provided." Given the importance of recreational activities on the beach to the City's cultural identity and economic vitality, beach management has been elevated to a priority issue with dedicated goals and policies in PLAN Hermosa. The Coastal Land Use Plan incorporates specific components related to parks and open space as follows: Coastal Access Provide to the maximum extent practicable, a public access inventory, including a map showing the specific locations of existing and proposed public access to the coast, including segments of the California Coastal Trail and the status and location of those subject to offers to dedicate easements or deed restrictions. Provide measures to ensure new development does not impede access and is compatible with public access areas. Provide estimates of current visitor and facilities use, and unmet or future demand by location and type of access. Identify potential public agency acquisitions, development or redevelopment, and management of public recreation and visitor - serving facilities. • Identify dedication or in lieu fee requirements • • • • for recreation and open space to accompany new development and to mitigate the cumulative impacts of development. Scenic Views • Identify public scenic and visual characteristics including: view corridors, viewsheds, and highly scenic coastal areas. • Provide descriptions of any development encroachments, including signs, billboards, and lighting, on public views and scenic areas. • Identify coastal view and visual quality protection policies Natural Habitat Areas • Define and map Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHA) for known sensitive habitat areas and state that ESHA maps are not an exhaustive compilation of habitat areas. • Identify requirements for conducting site- specific biological evaluations, historical analysis of disturbed areas, and field observations to identify ESHA and other sensitive resources and potential impacts. • Provide designations in and surrounding ESHAs, where practical, that limit uses and ensure compatibility between ESHAs and adjacent land uses through open space easements, deed restrictions or buffers to ESHAs. • Identify requirements for ensuring detailed restoration and monitoring plans for projects involving habitat mitigation and restoration. • Identify measures to address beach grooming, consistent with protection of sensitive species (e.g., grunion and western snowy plover). Additionally, numerous California regulations, including the California Endangered Species Act protect special -status species and important habitat areas, including Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs). The General Plan must comply with State and Federal requirements to protect special -status species, native plants, beach areas, and the Santa Monica Bay watershed. Temporary Events The California Coastal Act specifically addresses "temporary events," noting that temporary events are "[a kind of] development, but are authorized without permit when they do not have any significant adverse impact upon coastal resources." The Coastal Land Use Plan: • Must identify and address the criteria to be used to mitigate potentially adverse impacts from temporary events. Context The City owns, operates, and maintains many developed park and recreation facilities providing green space, picnic facilities, a skateboard park, tennis courts, lawn bowling, and space for sporting events, as well as a community garden. These facilities and open spaces provide much of the City's natural and green space and areas for wildlife habitat. In addition to providing facilities, the Community Resources Department manages requests for special events, processes facility reservations, and offers programs to serve everyone from youths to seniors. Shakespeare by the Sea performance at Valley Park PLAN HERMOSA I 161 City Parks + Open Space Hermosa Beach currently has 105 acres of parkland with a total of 20 parks and parkettes (See Table 5.1). The beach, which is owned by the City, provides a valuable and prominent open space resource for residents and visitors, accounting for 63 acres of open space. The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt encompasses 19 acres, providing a vegetated open space corridor that runs north - south along the entire length of the city. The city's largest parks or recreational spaces: the Community Center, Valley Park, South Park, and Clark Stadium are located adjacent to the Table 5.1 Parks + Community Facilities Greenbelt with smaller parks or parkettes, less than 1 acre in size, distributed throughout the city. Parks within the city provide play fields, tennis courts, lawn bowling, a skate park, and space for a number of activities for picnics, youth programs, and other outdoor recreation activities. In 2011, the City established a temporary community garden at South Park to test options. The community garden area has been permanently constructed as a part of the park renovations completed in 2016. The three school sites incorporate playgrounds, courts, and playing fields which add to the range of recreational spaces available to the community when school is not in session. 1 � +t q�;da ,� � e��p �,� .�r^ �,"� � � � a `�� � � ver � �� �� Park :> Parkette ;yra,»r. Size Acres �,.�,�,+aa • ' P ark Name°'�Atltlress Shaffer Park Ingleside Ave & 33rd PI < 0.1 2 Valley Park Valley Dr & Gould Ave Park 8.8 3 Valley Greenbelt Trail/Open Space 19 4 Sea View Park Prospect Ave & 19th St Park 0.3 5 Scout Parkette Prospect Ave & 14th St Parkette < 0.1 6 Greenwood Park PCH & Aviation Blvd Park 0.5 7 Fort Lots -o -Fun Prospect Ave & 6th St Park 0.2 8 Edith Rodaway Friendship Park Prospect Ave Park 0.8 9 Oceanview Parkette 3rd St Parkette < 0.1 10 Moondust Parkette 2nd St Parkette < 0.1 11 City Beach, Strand, Pier Trail/Open Space 63.4 12 Noble Park 1400 The Strand Park 0.8 13 Clark Stadium/Lawn Bowling Green 861 Valley Dr Park 6.6 14 8th & Valley Parkette 8th St & Valley Dr Parkette < 0.1 15 South Park 425 Valley Dr Park 4.5 16 Ardmore Park 491 Ardmore Park Park 0.2 17 Bicentennial Park Valley Dr & 4th St Park 0.4 18 Kay Etow Parkette Herondo St Parkette < 0.1 19 Seawright Sandhill Parkette Manhattan Ave & Loma Dr Parkette < 0.1 TOTAL 105.5 '; . 20 z : ,aFaCilii' Name '''A dreil 5. i� ...... �.. ;P,ar .Y.Pe SizeJ, res Hermosa Beach Community Center 710 Pier Ave Community Center 4.8 21 View School 1800 Prospect Ave School 4.6 22 Valley School 1645 Valley Dr School 8.8 23 North School 417 25th St School 1.8 24 Prospect Avenue Building 1006 6th St Public Building 0.2 TOTAL 20.2 162 ICHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE • Figure 5.1 Parks + Public Facilities 7 hermosa beach --� parks + public facilities i-'---.. I 1-cocitYastair;;;: limes';� etrowA � �',`' oK- .fl _ shaffer park valley park valley greenbelt sea view park scout parkette greenwood park fort lots -of -fun park edith rodaway park oceanview parkette moondust parkette city beach, strand, pier noble park clark stadium 8th + valley parkette south park ardmore park bi-centennial park kay etow parkette - IOhstseaketeht sandhi!! --- T parkette community center + skate park 24 „pm view school ;18 r- Vic__— _,_.._. - valley school north school prospect ave building 0 400' 800' 0” 1" 2" PLAN HERMOSA I 163 Community Facilities The public facilities designed to serve the community include buildings like the Community Center and Clark Building, as well as parks and trails like the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt and The Strand. Three facilities, Valley Park, Clark Stadium, Edith Roadway Park, and South Park, support activities and sport leagues for both youth and adult participants. Clark Stadium also provides lawn bowling. The Clark Building, located at 861 Valley Drive, provides a multi-purpose hall and lighted sports fields. South Park, located at 425 Valley Drive, provides lawn areas, a new universal access play area, a community garden, and is also used for organized sports. The Community Center and Hermosa Beach Community Theater are located at 710 Pier Avenue, at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Pier Avenue. This complex includes a community center with meeting rooms, senior center, large and small theaters, gymnasium, skate park, tennis courts and the Hermosa Beach History Museum. South Park was renovated in 2016 to include a community garden and the first universally accessible playground in the South Bay. 164 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Hermosa Beach Community Center and Lawn Recreational Programming The Community Resources Department provides recreational programming to serve the needs of Hermosa Beach residents of all ages. The department offers targeted programs for youth, adults, and seniors, as described below. Youth Programs Youth program offerings vary in length from one day or week in length, to seasonal or year-round activities and include athletic programs, creative arts activities, and social programs. Additionally, the P.A.R.K. (Positive Active Recreation for Kids) Program is an after-school program offered at the Hermosa Beach Community Center and South Park for Hermosa Beach residents, emphasizing active recreation for children in 1st through 8th grades. Adult Classes & Leagues Adult classes and leagues offer athletic and creative arts programming for beginner to advanced levels. In addition to seasonal classes, the City offers social excursions for adults to locations, typically encompassing tours of cultural landmarks and activity centers around the region. Senior Programs Senior services are needed to serve the unique needs of older community members. Private facilities, such as Sunrise Senior Living, provide living arrangements for older residents ranging from independent housing to assisted medical care for persons with Alzheimer's disease. For recreational purposes, the City opened the Hermosa Five -O Senior Activity Center in May 2010. The center provides group activities and classes to all South Bay residents who are 50 years of age or older. • Hermosa Valley School playground Access to Parks, Schools + Community Facilities Certain areas of the city are better '0• served by parks than others. Even in goP neighborhoods with existing parks, many residents are located farther from a community -sized park than the commonly accepted standard of access of one quarter mile walk distance, although parkettes, school facilities and small open spaces help to increase access to open space. Improving park access throughout the city is critical, and upgrading pedestrian connections to existing parks is the primary means to achieve this goal (apart from adding new parks). Initiatives to create a complete and connected safe routes to school network (see Figure 3.11 in the Mobility Element) also serve to better connect parks and public facilities throughout the city. The Strand and Greenbelt provide city -long paths. Following a ballot initiative (Measure 0, 1986), redesignation of park land designated Open Space in the General Plan to any other use requires voter approval. The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt/ Trail, located between Valley Drive and Ardmore Avenue, runs the length of the city and connects to Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach. The Greenbelt provides a walking and jogging trail. While the Greenbelt and The Strand serve important north -south connections, safe and convenient east -west connections are lacking. Given its gridded street network, small blocks, dense land uses, and low posted speed limits, Hermosa Beach holds the potential for a greater pedestrian environment. The 22 walk streets provide safe and plentiful pedestrian connections between Downtown, neighborhoods, and the beach, while walking paths on the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt provide north -south connections away from the beach. The Strand, Southern California's famous beachside bicycle path, also serves the Hermosa Beach community on its way between Torrance and Malibu. Despite these inherent benefits; the pedestrian environment suffers from a lack of continuity. Sidewalks, in particular, are not continuous throughout the city. In many places, sidewalks are present on both sides of the roadway, while in others — chiefly on local streets — they are present on just one side or not at all. Missing curb ramps, steep driveways, and sidewalk obstructions present challenges to users of all abilities. PLAN HERMOSA 1 165 • •,401i • santa monica -' mountains santa monica bay Figure 5.2 Regionally Important Views Scenic Resources The character and beauty of Hermosa Beach are inextricably linked to its coastal location and natural topography. Views of the Pacific Ocean are plentiful, and on a clear day, there are qcv several locations that provide views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south, the Santa Monica Bay and Santa Monica Mountains to the north, and the Los Angeles Basin and San Gabriel Mountains to the east and inland (see Figure 5.2). The beach and The Strand provide some of the most expansive and uninterrupted scenic vistas in Hermosa Beach. Other scenic vistas are best viewed from higher elevations along Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue as depicted in Figure 5.3. In addition to the ocean vistas, the visual character of Hermosa Beach itself is considered a unique resource. Features such as the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, the Downtown District, Hermosa Pier, and the Bijou Theater represent aspects of the city's history. Encouraging future development and renovation projects enhance and build on the character of these areas is described in the Land Use + Design Element. View point: a particular place from which natural scenery can be observed View corridor: a continuous line of sight from which natural scenery is observed View: a sight or prospect that can be taken in from a particular place Viewshed: the compilation of viewpoints that can observe a particular view 166 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE • Figure 5.3 Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas —7/1— hermosa beach public view locations ..` prominent public viewpoint uninterrupted viewing areas y _1 city limits o coastal zone aao ......_ soot z.' 0" 1" 2" PLAN HERMOSA 1 167 Coastal Access The City of Hermosa Beach is home to a wide sandy beach that runs the length of the city. Access to the beach is provided by 22 walk streets that run perpendicular to and connect with Hermosa Avenue. Walk Streets occur approximately every 200 to 500 feet. An additional five street ends occur along Beach Drive. Most access points (alleys and street ends) are located no more than 300 feet apart. The main exception is in the northern stretch of Hermosa Avenue between 25th Street and 35th Street where some access points are more than 1,000 feet apart. Figure 5.4 depicts existing coastal access points in Hermosa Beach. No additional access points are currently planned or anticipated. The following describes access conditions and features along the coast. Access and transportation to the beach is a major issue both for community members and for compliance with the Coastal Act. A number of beach access points are provided from public streets and alleys including walking and biking paths. The Strand also provides access within Hermosa Beach and from neighboring cities. In 2014, many visitors arrived by car and utilized public or private parking, which is addressed in more detail in the Mobility Element. The Strand The Strand is a multi -use path that runs along the beach for the length of Hermosa Beach. The Strand provides horizontal access across the beach, and is well served by the many access points in Hermosa Beach. The Strand continues north into Manhattan Beach and south into Redondo Beach. The Strand was the first completed segment of the California Coastal Trail in Los Angeles County and fulfills the City's commitment to completing the state wide Coastal Trail. The Strand is heavily trafficked, and during high use periods, becomes congested, particularly when pedestrians stand on the path to socialize. 168 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Beach Area North of 24th Street Six public access points to the beach are located north of 24th Street. Access points include locations where The Strand crosses into Hermosa Beach, and five walk streets. This segment of the coast has the longest gaps between access points; which are between 600 and 900 feet apart. Where access points do occur, no signs indicate whether the walk streets are intended for public access. Beach Area North of the Pier to 24th Street Including 24th Street, 12 coastal access points are located north of the Pier, including an access point to the public restroom located on the beach at 22nd Street. Beach access is provided via street ends at 22nd Street, 15th Street, and 14th Street, as well as via the parking garage at 13th Street. The remaining access points are walk streets. The Pier and Pier Plaza Pier Plaza is a major commercial pedestrian area that is accessed via adjacent parking lots, a Class III bicycle route along Hermosa Avenue, and pedestrian connections from Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue. Pier Plaza provides access to The Strand, adjacent beach areas, and the Pier. The Pier extends into the Pacific Ocean, providing access to numerous recreational activities including fishing, sightseeing, and walking. Beach Area South of the Pier Thirteen access points are located south of the Pier. This section of the coast has the most frequent access, with access points occurring every 200 to 300 feet. Street end access is provided at 11th Street, 10th Street, and 2nd Street, in addition to access to The Strand at the Redondo Beach border. The remaining access points are walk streets. • Figure 5.4 Coastal Access Inventory Map 1 r4 / r r 1 , asci St -1 -••-•=1St fh St ---T--.16th Si hermosa beach coastal access points coastal access points primary lateral access + calitomia coastal trail primary vertical access (walk streets) primary vertical access (vehicle accessible) secondary lateral access (beach dr) 0 E3 off-street parking c ri parking district co c. l 1 city limits a- coastal zone 0 400' 800' PLAN HERMOSA 1 169 Beach Visitors + Recreational Activities Hermosa Beach is one of the most heavily visited beaches on the coast of California. The Strand, the Pier, and the beach itself are all heavily used resources. Visitors to these areas come from ��� all over the Los Angeles region and from throughout California, the United States, and abroad. Surveys conducted each year by Los Angeles County Ocean Lifeguards on the beach indicate that, on average, close to 500,000 individuals visit the beach each month. In peak summer periods, this can increase to well over 1.5 million visitors per month. The beach area offers numerous public amenities distributed through and includes 4 sets of restrooms, 14 lifeguard towers, 76 volleyball courts, 4 sets of swing sets, and 6 beach tennis courts (see Figure 5.5). According to a 2014 beach user survey, conducted to support the LCP, visitors are generally happy with the quality and management of beach facilities and resources. The area of the beach between 10th and 15th streets is considered to be the "commercial area" where the City permits special events such as concerts, volleyball tournaments, surfing events, and other organized activities or large group gatherings to occur. Other than The Strand, this is the only area of the beach in which special events are permitted, and the area where the City retains the responsibility of maintaining the volleyball courts. Residents take responsibility for maintaining volleyball courts on other areas of the beach. Clark Building at 861 Valley Drive • Figure 5.5 Hermosa Beach Amenities % hermosa beach beach amenities it r ®� —,-L 4\4., I ---/ �"�`•1.6 /C =psi+blvd i. 18ll.IS— N N restrooms Q lifeguard tower �{ volleyball other amenities commercial area Other amenities include items such as swing sets, water fountains, bike parking, or the beach tennis courts. tA :� city limits CU o El coastal zone .0 E00' 0" 1» 2,. PLAN HERMOSA 1 171 Special Events The City of Hermosa Beach receives applications for nearly 100 special 74ov events each year to be held at the City's parks and beach. Events range in size from dozens of people participating in volleyball tournaments to thousands of people attending concerts, fiestas, parades, and beach events. Given the importance of managing events in the Coastal Zone to the city's cultural identity and economic vitality, special event management has been elevated to a priority issue. While these events are a major economic driver and attract many visitors, they can also constrain parking capacity, divert public safety resources, and crowd local restaurants and services, which may limit the use and general enjoyment of the beach by members of the public, families, and residents who simply wish to access the coastline. Because the beach is a key part of the Southern California beach culture, a number of social and recreational events occur at these locations throughout the year. Some events draw several thousand visitors, with events like the Discovery Channel's FinFest attracting an estimated 15,000 attendees, the annual St. Patrick's Day parade attracting 30,000 spectators, and the annual Fiesta Hermosa events on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends attracting 150,000 visitors over the course of each three-day weekend. An analysis of special events programmed for 2014 and 2015 coinciding with preparation of PLAN Hermosa indicated that the majority of special event days in Hermosa Beach are for small, single -day events. However, there are a substantial number of large events, which have a Figure 5.6 Events by Number of Participants _SCO Partepan: Sawre. City of Hermosa Brach 2015 'Note Percentage olmeal days is an ajpratiMate estimate 1ar101S 172 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Figure 5.7 Number of Event Day by Quarter 31 So 2e I» 13 a „...17:::1----. -- � throme«.►.e.,.a.. Ma,c1.Wa) • a120PwYOaro • 1011002 hz'rps.•a • )1000 MIX Oro heavier impact on coastal access, parking, and other services in surrounding neighborhoods. Small events occur throughout the year, with a peak of event days during the spring. Large events with greater than 1,000 participants are most prevalent in the summer, but also occur in the spring and fall. Special events use the beach area close to and north of the Pier most frequently, with nearly 30 event days each spring and an additional 30 event days each summer. Fewer event days are typically scheduled for The Strand, the Pier, or Pier Plaza. However, because of constrained space and direct proximity to other uses, the events may be more obtrusive in those areas. To identify the cumulative effect of special events over an annual calendar year, subdivided into summer and other months, the City has established a Days Used by Events (DUE) metric. In 2014-2015, a special event of one type or another took place in the Coastal Zone on about 93% of available summer days in Hermosa Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day (an annually variable span of approximately 100 days). If setup days are included, special events occurred nearly every day during the summertime. For events with more than 1,000 participants, a special event took place in the Coastal Zone on about 37% of available summer days. If setup days are included, these large events occurred on approximately 53% of available summer days. It should be noted that the City considers 2014-2015 to represent an above- average condition with regard to special events. • s Fiesta Hermosa attracts nearly 150,000 people over a three-day weekend Special Events + Beach Culture The City acknowledges that special events can simultaneously benefit and impact the quality of life in Hermosa Beach. The following discussion highlights important community issues related to special events. Community Character Special events contribute to the beach culture desired by residents and the community. However, while adding to the diversity of the community, the frequency and size of special events can also create congestion and reduce the availability of facilities for locals or visitors who are not participating in the event. Economic Vitality Special events bring visitors to Hermosa Beach who spend money in local establishments. This strengthens the business community and contributes to the tax base. Special events also advertise Hermosa Beach's desirability, which can help increase tourism revenues. Environmental Sustainability Special events in Hermosa Beach are expected to implement measures to reduce impacts and costs to the environment, the City, and the community. Applicants are required to complete Environmental Protection Plans, specifying how they will comply with applicable measures for recycling and waste reduction, transportation, energy, marine protection, and public education using a green matrix that is part of the special event application. Healthy Active Lifestyles From volleyball tournaments to concerts, special events provide numerous public recreation and cultural opportunities that community residents can participate in or enjoy as spectators. On occasion, volleyball tournaments occupy a Targe number of municipal courts within the commercial area between 11th and 14th Streets, which can make it challenging for residents or the public to utilize the amenity at certain times. The City strives to balance the concentration of events at Pier Plaza, the beach, the Pier, and The Strand to balance access to the beach by the public. PLAN HERMOSA 1 173 Natural Habitat + Wildlife Despite being part of the dense urban fabric along the Santa Monica Bay, Hermosa Beach is home to important habitat and wildlife resources. The shoreline and pockets within the city support habitats and wildlife typical of the urban landscape. Hermosa Beach includes numerous parks, beach and marine habitats that support hundreds of ornamental and non-native plants and various animals common to the urban landscape. Open space areas include the beach, Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, the hillside between Loma Drive and the Valley Neighborhood, and numerous large and small parks. Because Hermosa Beach is an urbanized community, open space and areas not disturbed or heavily used by humans are scarce. However, there are opportunities to enhance existing habitat in open space areas. For example, the Greenbelt has potential to function as an important resource for local and migratory species such as monarch butterflies, and the restoration of vegetated dune habitat along the beach would significantly enhance habitat and wildlife diversity. Habitat and wildlife located off the shore of Hermosa Beach includes a rich diversity of migratory and resident species of mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Managing surface water runoff to protect water quality in Santa Monica Bay affects the quality and viability of these off -shore marine resources. Western Snowy Plover The western snowy plover (charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) is a federally endangered species and a California species of special concern. They are small, sand -colored birds that sit in foot prints and tire tracks along the wrack line and mid -beach areas. Relying on camouflage to evade predators, they usually go unnoticed by beach goers. This species typically nests on coastal beaches, sand spits, sparsely vegetated dunes, beaches at river mouths, and salt pans at lagoons and estuaries. Designated critical habitat for the western snowy plover occurs on Hermosa Beach. The critical habitat subunit stretches roughly 0.5 miles from 11th Street southward to 1st Street and totals approximately 27 acres. This subunit supports wintering flocks of snowy plover. 174 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Western snowy plover bird on Hermosa Beach. Snowy plover counts conducted by the Los Angeles Audobon Society for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife indicate approximately 40 and 46 snowy plovers were observed in Hermosa Beach over a two-day period in February 2014 and January 2015, respectively. Urban Forest The beach and adjacent marine habitats also support hundreds of ornamental and non-native plants and various animals common to the urban landscape. As the biggest plants on the planet, trees have many essential qualities that protect health and safety. They produce oxygen, store carbon, stabilize the soil and provide a home for wildlife. The canopies of trees act as a physical filter, trapping dust and absorbing pollutants from the air— annually removing up to four pounds per tree, and also provide shade from solar radiation and reduce noise. Landscaping and trees in Hermosa Beach are located in parks and open space settings, within street parkways, and on private property. The Hermosa Beach Municipal Code regulates the provision and maintenance standards for trees. To prevent the installation of invasive or water intensive tree species, the City has established a master tree list. • Goals and Policies • This section provides guidance for the distribution, maintenance, and creation of recreational space and trails in Hermosa Beach. This section identifies the long-term goals of the community to be a steward of existing park and recreational spaces. These goals are supported by specific policies associated with park land acquisition, classification of recreational space, enhanced access and safety, design and development standards to protect views, program and service policies, and operation and maintenance objectives. Goal 1. First class, well maintained, and safe recreational facilities, parks and open spaces. Simply providing parks and open space is not enough to encourage their use. Facilities must be safe and well maintained to manage a balance between overuse and underuse. The lighting of facilities extends their availability to the residents of Hermosa Beach, many of whom are commuters who pursue recreation activities in the early morning or evening hours. Policies 1.1 Facility upgrades. Improve and update park and open space facilities on a regular basis. 1.2 Lighting and visibility. Provide appropriate lighting and visibility within park facilities while avoiding adverse impacts to adjacent properties. 1.3 CPTED principles. Utilize "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" (OPTED) principles in the design and renovation of new and existing parks and open space facilities, including the greenbelt. 1.4 Low -maintenance design. Promote environmentally sustainable and low maintenance design principles in the renovation, addition, or maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. 1.5 Evaluate community needs. Conduct a periodic review of community park needs and interests to inform maintenance and investment priorities. PLAN HERMOSA I 175 Goal 2. Abundant parks, open space, and recreational facilities to serve the community. Since little land is currently available to acquire for recreation use, other approaches are necessary to meet the needs of the community. The principles of good planning and design need to be applied to all existing park sites and facilities to maximize their use, and when facilities cannot meet the recreational needs of the community, the City should explore the possibility of sharing facilities with neighboring communities on an organized basis. Policies 2.1 Diverse programs and facilities. Offer diverse recreational programs and facilities to meet the needs of all residents. 2.2 Parks fees. Require new discretionary development to contribute fees, consistent with State law, for expanded park space when publicly accessible open space is not provided on-site. 2.3 Creative parks and open space. Encourage creativity and innovation during the development and provision of additional open space or parks, rooftop gardens, and park space integrated into parking structures. 2.4 Park expansion opportunities. Consider the purchase or re -use of City -owned surplus property to create additional parks and open space as opportunities arise to expand existing parks or create new parks. 2.5 Shared use agreements. Work with adjacent jurisdictions, the school district, and private facilities to offer recreational opportunities or activities not available at City of Hermosa Beach facilities. 2.6 Investment and maintenance. Prioritize the investment and maintenance of existing facilities prior to development and expansion of new facilities. 176 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Goal 3. Community parks and facilities encourage 9 social activity and interaction. Parks should be designed and programmed to meet the community's diverse needs and interests through a variety of social, cultural, and recreational programs, which promote physical activity, facilitate cultural exchange and increase community social interactions. These qualities help to make Hermosa Beach an attractive and socially supportive place to live, work, and visit. Policies 3.1 Community -friendly events. Encourage, permit, and support community group, nonprofit, or business organized events on City property that support physical activity, beach culture, and family -friendly social interactions. 3.2 Social and cultural events. Design and program parks and open space to accommodate unique social and cultural events to foster connectedness and interaction. 3.3 Commercial use of facilities. Regulate and enforce commercial use of City parks and open spaces to ensure activities do not impact general use and enjoyment. 3.4 Balance space needs. Balance the space needs and demand on public resources of formal and informal events. 3.5 Health and physical activity. Increase the availability of space and variety of activities that promote community health and physical activity such as community gardens, fitness stations/ equipment, and fields/courts. 3.6 Availability of City facilities. Consider the demand and availability of City facilities for general community use in the long-term lease and/or rental of City facilities. PLAN HERMOSA I 177 Goal 4. Direct and accessible routes and connections to parks, recreational facilities, and open space are provided. The active transportation and trail network is envisioned to serve both recreational needs as well as viable transportation choice for commuting, shopping, and social activities in Hermosa Beach. By providing direct and accessible routes to parks that are located in close proximity to residents, the need for valuable park space to be dedicated to vehicle parking is decreased. Additionally, the creation of a local trolley or circulator that can accommodate bicycles, strollers, and wheelchairs with stops at local parks would enhance access and connections to open space. Policies 4.1 Close proximity to parks. Provide a variety and distribution of parks, open space, and recreational facilities to enhance proximity and easy access to all residents. 4.2 Enhanced access points. Increase and enhance access to parks and open space, particularly across major thoroughfares, as well as access points that promote physical activity such as pedestrian- and bike -oriented access points. 4.3 Safe and efficient trail network. Develop a network of safe and efficient trails, streets, and paths that connect residents, visitors, and neighboring communities to the beach, parks, and activity centers. 4.4 ADA accessible park access. Install ADA and universally accessible amenities and equipment so that all parks, beach, and trail networks are accessible to all persons. 178 I CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE Goal 5. Scenic vistas, viewpoints, and resources are maintained or enhanced. The culture and identity of Hermosa Beach is defined in part by scenic value. The City seeks to maintain and enhance the beauty of Hermosa Beach, and to ensure future development does not substantially detract from identified scenic public viewpoints or uninterrupted viewing areas, particularly within the Coastal Zone. Policies 5.1 Identify public coastal views. Identify the Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas from which coastal scenic vistas can be observed. 5.2 Visual character. Accommodate economic growth and new buildings in a way that is consistent with and reflects the visual character of the community. 5.3 Building site and design. Massing, height, and orientation of new development adjacent to Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas shall be evaluated and, to the extent reasonable, new development will be sited and designed to minimize additional obstructions of public coastal views to and along the ocean and scenic areas. 5.4 Exceptions to protect views. Consider exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards to minimize additional obstructions to the Prominent Public Viewpoints and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas while providing projects the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. 5.5 Landscape design. Consider public access to public views and vistas, and encourage landscape design that protects or enhances those views. 5.6 Signage and infrastructure. Encourage signage, infrastructure, and utilities that do not block or detract from views of scenic vistas. 5.7 Light pollution. Preserve skyward nighttime views and lessen glare by minimizing lighting levels along the shoreline. PLAN HERMOSA 1 179 Goal 6. The coast and its recreational facilities are easily accessible from many locations and by multiple transportation modes. Providing and maintaining public access both to and along California's coast is a central premise of the California Coastal Act. The City of Hermosa Beach is committed to maintaining and enhancing public access through the provision of multiple access points, increased visibility and signage, and increased opportunities for alternative modes to safely travel to the beach. Policies 6.1 Visible access points. Enhance visibility of existing public access points to and along beaches, coastal parks, and trails. 6.2 Coastal sign program. Coordinate the design of signs and graphics in the Coastal Zone to clearly mark coastal views and access points in a manner that is consistent with City signage. 6.3 Safe and accessible connections. Ensure public access points provide safe and accessible connections to The Strand and shoreline, including access for persons with disabilities. 6.4 Transit access. Coordinate with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to improve regional and local transit access to beach access points. 6.5 Wayfinding and coastal access. Maximize all forms of access and safety getting to and around the Coastal Zone through infrastructure and wayfinding improvements. 6.6 Universal access. Provide resources that improve accessibility to the beach for all visitors. 6.7 Minimal impact to access. Require new development and substantial redevelopment projects to minimize impacts to existing public access to and along the shoreline. 6.8 High quality connections. Support high quality connections to adjacent jurisdictions along The Strand to promote safe and efficient circulation of pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non - motorized uses. 6.9 Maximize open space. Maximize the use of and enhance parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities along The Strand. 6.10 Paid parking. Provide parking payment systems that respond to demand and improve ease of use. 6.11 Regional parking coordination. Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions to develop consistent parking rules, rates, and enforcement. 6.12 Comprehensive bike and pedestrian network. Prioritize completion of proposed South Bay Bike Master Plan improvements in the Coastal Zone that connect to other bike routes and paths throughout the city and to the surrounding region. 180 1 CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE • • • • Goal 7. The beach offers high quality recreational opportunities and amenities desired by the community. Residents and visitors from the region and beyond use the beach for a variety of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to jogging and volleyball to major sporting and cultural events. The community is proud of the beach area and its amenities and upkeep. To maintain these attributes, beach management practices must be upheld. New practices should also be established that improve the sustainability of extensive beach use and ensure potential conflicts between beach uses are minimized. Policies 7.1 Beach maintenance. Maintain the beach and ocean as natural recreational resources, not only for the city but also for the Southern California region. 7.2 Amenity upkeep. Continue to update, replace, and add new public restrooms, water fountains, and other City -maintained beach facilities on an ongoing basis. 7.3 Recreational asset. Consider and treat the beach as a recreational asset and never as a commercial enterprise. 7.4 Beach structures. Restrict buildings and structures on the beach with regard to size and number consistent with current access, safety, and beach use. 7.5 Designated recreational uses. Continually evaluate and explore devoting certain portions of the beach to different preferred recreational uses while providing access for all users and meeting the recreation needs of visitors and residents. 7.6 Children's recreational equipment. Ensure that children's recreational equipment like slides, swings, and climbing apparatus are of a non-obstructive design. Locate near major or primary entrances to the beach, at least 100 feet from the Strand wall. 7.7 Allowable recreational equipment. Periodically evaluate and, as necessary, update the list of allowable recreational equipment on the beach to meet the recreational needs of visitors and residents of all ages. PLAN HERMOSA I 181 Goal 8. Special events at the beach are balanced to support community recreation and economic development without restricting coastal access or impacting the community. Without proper management, the cumulative number of organized events at the beach, the Pier, The Strand, and Pier Plaza can limit public access and enjoyment of coastal recreation resources. While these events are a major economic driver and attract many visitors to the community, without proper management, they can also constrain parking capacity, divert public safety resources, and crowd local restaurants and services, which may limit the use and general enjoyment of the beach by members of the public, families, and residents who simply wish to access the coastline. Policies 8.1 Cumulative special events limit. Limit the number of days during summer months (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) that the beach may be used for special events: • Summer events with greater than 1,000 participants: maximum 30 days used by events, including both setup and event days • Total summer events: maximum 70 days used by event, including setup and event days 8.2 Off-peak season events. Incentivize event producers to host special events during off-peak seasons through reduced fees or accommodating location/reserved area preferences. 8.3 Community -focused events. Prioritize the approval of special events that enhance the sense of community, improve economic vitality, and foster a healthy environment and active lifestyles. 8.4 Family -focused events. Prioritize events that appeal to a wide segment of community members. 8.5 Volleyball courts. Ensure volleyball courts are available for public use and continue to limit the number of simultaneous volleyball special events occurring north and south of the pier. 8.6 Special event impact fees. Require special event applicants pay a fair share of costs associated with impacts on City services and facilities required to support special events. 8.7 Public access. Ensure that special events do not impede public access to the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. 8.8 Event transportation. Enhance alternative transportation options during special events to improve public access to special events as well as to other portions of the beach. 8.9 Special event review process. Employ a multi -departmental special event review for events with more than 500 people. 8.10 Sustainable events. Improve sustainability and environmental protection associated with special events. 8.11 Safe events. Identify evacuation routes and capacity levels to maximize safety during large events. 182 1 CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE • Goal 9. Coastal and marine habitat .m. resources and wildlife are protected. Habitat areas and wildlife can be negatively affected by certain types of development and human activity. The City seeks to protect and restore these spaces that are fundamental components of Hermosa Beach's environment and that help define its identity. Policies 9.1 Protect critical habitats. Preserve, protect, and improve remaining open space areas to the greatest extent possible to improve on existing limited habitats and prevent further elimination of species. 9.2 Beach maintenance. Consider species and habitat impacts and potential improvements when implementing beach maintenance activities. 9.3 Beach habitat. Ensure beaches can function as a quality habitat for permanent and migratory species. 9.4 Coordinated habitat protection. Enhance information sharing and research regarding habitat and wildlife with resource agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure coordinated decision-making and management. 9.5 Minimal activity impacts to habitat. Protect coastal and marine habitats from impacts from maintenance, construction, recreation, and industrial activities. 9.6 Tree protection. Protect existing trees and tree copses that may provide temporary or permanent bird habitat and encourage replacement with specimen trees whenever they are lost or removed. PLAN HERMOSA I 183 Goal 10. Abundant landscaping, trees, .m and green space provided throughout the community. Increased tree canopy and green space, paired with proper maintenance, has the ability to provide a myriad of environmental, social, and economic benefits. Because of the numerous benefits of green space, the City is committed to creating, maintaining and promoting a safe, healthy and environmentally sound urban forest. Policies 10.1 Urban forest. Expand the urban forest and green spaces citywide on public and private property. 10.2 Non-invasive landscapes. Encourage the planting of native, non-invasive, and drought - tolerant landscaping and trees, and encourage the planting of edible landscapes and fruit trees. 10.3 Green space co -benefits. Recognize the many positive qualities provided by landscaping, trees, and green space including reduced heat gain, controlled stormwater runoff, absorbed noise, reduced soil erosion, improved aesthetic character, and absorption of air pollution. 10.4 Scenic features. Ensure landscaping, trees, and green spaces on public property are designed to conserve scenic and natural features of Hermosa Beach. 10.5 Park landscaping. Landscaping in parks located within the Coastal Zone shall consist of non-invasive and drought -tolerant plants. 10.6 City landscaping. Encourage landscaping, trees, and green spaces across the city consist of non-invasive and drought -tolerant plants. 10.7 Park LID Design. Incorporate Low Impact Development concepts into the design and renovation of City parks and public facilities. 184 1 CHAPTER 5: PARKS + OPEN SPACE • • Hermosa Beach Fire Department Ambulance The City is committed to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the community by addressing natural and public safety hazards. These topics are critical for quality of life and economic stability. First, a safe and healthy environment is critical for good quality of life; we cannot have one without the other. Second, if we do not adequately prepare for natural hazards and create a resilient community, natural disasters will have a greater effect on our community, leading to increased injuries, death, and property damage. The City has been proactive and has a history responding quickly to crimes and hazards, maximizing safety and ensuring a high quality of life. As part of this commitment, the City's public safety strategy is four -fold: (1) reduce potential risks or exposure to natural and man-made hazards, (2) build community capacity and preparedness for unavoidable hazards, (3) ensure efficient response to hazardous events, and (4) enact recovery plans to build greater resiliency to future hazards. The Public Safety Element places specific focus on hazards that could be made more severe with anticipated impacts of climate change. This element also incorporates the Noise Element, required by State law, addressing major noise sources, existing and future noise levels, and the potential noise exposure to vulnerable populations. These topics are critical for quality of life and economic stability. PLAN HERMOSA l 185 State Law This Public Safety Element was prepared to meet State General Plan law requirements for both the safety and noise topics, and additionally to meet Coastal Act requirements related to coastal hazards. While State law does not require police and fire safety services to be addressed beyond the location of facilities, Hermosa Beach has a demonstrated commitment to a safe community, and therefore this Element provides goals and policies related to police and fire services needed to keep the community safe. General Plan California planning law requires the General Plan to address topics of both safety and noise, with specific focus on identifying and mitigating the risk and exposure of the population from hazards. Safety • Must identify and protect the community from any unreasonable risks associated with natural hazards, including seismically induced, slope instability, geologic hazards, flooding, and wildland or urban fires. • Must include mapping of known seismic and other geologic hazards. • Must address evacuation routes, peak load water supply requirements, and minimum road widths and clearances as they relate to identified fire or geologic hazards. • Must identify information regarding flood hazards, including flood hazard zones, national flood insurance program maps, dam failure inundation maps, floodplain mapping, levee protection zones, inundation areas, historical data on flooding, existing or planned development in flood hazard zones, agencies with responsibility for flood protection, and essential public facilities during flooding. • Must coordinate flood hazard mapping with US Army Corps of Engineers, Office of Emergency Services, and Department of Water Resources. • Must identify and address risks of fire for land classified as state responsibility areas or very high fire hazard severity zones. 186 ICHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Must review and incorporate new information regarding hazards into the Safety Element, with each revision of the Housing Element. If a FEMA approved flood plain management ordinance exists, the plan may incorporate the ordinance provisions by reference. Must consult with Office of Emergency Services May incorporate portions of County Safety Element if detailed and relevant to the city. Must submit draft Safety Element to the California Geologic Survey of the Department of Conservation and the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection and all fire protection agencies with jurisdiction in the planning area. If certified by FEMA, the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) may be incorporated by reference. Noise Must analyze and quantify, to the extent practicable, current and projected noise levels. Should incorporate the following sources into analysis: highways and freeways, primary arterials and major local streets, passenger and freight operations, aviation operations, local industrial plants, other ground noise sources contributing to the noise environment. Must present noise from all listed sources in terms of community noise equivalent level (CNEL) or day -night average level. Must prepare noise contours on the basis of noise monitoring or generally accepted noise modeling techniques. Should use noise contours as a guide for establishing land use patterns that minimize exposure of residents to excessive noise. Additionally, noise and vibration sources are regulated and mitigated through the California Environmental Quality Act, California State Building Code, and Department of Housing and Urban Development. • • • • Coastal Land Use Plan The California Coastal Act requires that the City's Coastal Land Use Plan identify potential coastal hazards and address such hazards in a manner that protects public safety and maintains coastal access. Specific provisions include: • Provide hazard maps showing present and future areas of potential inundation, flooding, beach erosion, and bluff retreat. • Map or inventory describing existing shoreline protective devices, including revetments, breakwaters, groins, harbor channels, seawalls, cliff retaining walls, and other such construction and their permit history. • Provide policies to limit the time period over which a permit for a shore protection device is valid and to tie the approval of the shore protection device to the continued existence of the existing structure only. • Identify policies to address repair, maintenance, and removal of protective devices, and policies related to siting/design of development to avoid the need for armoring. Hermosa Beach coasta i"n`"'restructure • Identify coastal or riverine flood hazard areas, tsunami inundation run-up areas, geologic hazards, like landslide areas and areas of bluff and cliff instabilities, expansive or highly corrosive soils, subsidence areas, fire hazard areas, seismic hazard areas, including areas of potential liquefaction. • Identify beach or bluff areas subject to seasonal or long-term erosion, and consider bluff retreat and beach erosion rates that take into account projected sea level rise, especially for areas subject to high waves, such as those from storms, surges, and seiches. • Identify and minimize risks to life and property in areas of high geologic, flood, and fire hazard. • Address climate change and sea level rise effects on ESHA. • Identify beach nourishment measures. • Define the economic life of structure, coastal structure, principal structure, littoral cell, mean high tide line, coastal bluff, and coastal redevelopment or major remodel. PLAN HERMOSA I 187 Context Hermosa Beach is exposed to various man- made, natural, and coastal hazards, including flooding, fires, and earthquakes. While the City cannot completely eliminate the threat of such disasters, it can create a resilient built environment and community through programs and policies to reduce damage from hazards. Additionally, activities and area roadways can expose residents of Hermosa Beach to high and potentially unhealthy levels of noise. mi Coastal + Natural Hazards Additional information on hazards in Hermosa Beach can be found in the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which presents a comprehensive risk assessment of natural hazards that have the potential to affect the city. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is required to be developed in accordance with the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) suggests mitigation actions for reducing the effects of potential hazards. It is incorporated by reference into the Public Safety Element and should be consulted when addressing known hazards to ensure the general health and safety of people within the City of Hermosa Beach. The goals and policies within this Safety Element support and are consistent with the recommended mitigation strategy within the LHMP. Severe Weather Extreme events such as heat waves, severe storms, droughts, and hurricanes have always had an impact on communities worldwide and are anticipated to increase in both frequency and severity with climate change. Of particular concern to Hermosa Beach are the storm or weather events such as heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, hail storms and even tropical systems. Severe weather events can come in the form of episodic, short-lived events, or as seasonal weather patterns. Seasonal events like El Nino winter, pose a number of hazards to both coastal resources and visitors to those coastal resources. Severe weather can cause increased beach erosion, flood damage, and hazardous conditions like high surf, riptides, storm surges, water spouts, and lighting. Since 1995, the LA County coast has 188 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY experienced 36 extreme weather events, resulting in 9 fatalities, 41 severe injuries, and damage to private property, as reported to the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA). Flooding Hazards + Coastal Flooding Coastal flooding poses a threat to life and safety, and can cause severe damage to public and private property. Large portions of Hermosa Beach beach front development lies less than 15 feet above sea level. Normally, the very wide beach buffers these areas from the high surf. During heavy storm seasons, this beach can be eroded to such an extent that these properties are subject to wave run-up. This has occurred during past El Nino events and during astronomical high tides. Resulting damage has been primarily to private property. Figure 6.1 FEMA Flood Zone Map Legend • ah a.tna+ry OnsuiZone game y Flood Zoos Typo Q tooYam ?bid Zona soo r w flood Tons Figure 6.1 illustrates the FEMA 100 -year flood zone within Hermosa Beach, where the entirety of the sandy beach (extending inland to The Strand) is located within the 100 -year flood zone, at the time of this update. As sea levels rise, described later within this section, the risk and degree of coastal flooding and other coastal hazards increases. Hermosa Beach is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program, and while there is no current base flood elevation determined by FEMA for properties beyond the beach, future maps that account for sea level rise could identify flood zones in developed areas that would include base flood elevations. Vulnerabilities related to the sewer system, alleys and walk streets, private and public structures, and business activities align with the greatest exposure to flooding, particularly in central and southern Hermosa Beach. Although ponding may occur during precipitation events, the city is not located adjacent to any river or channel that poses a flood threat from excessive precipitation or runoff, and no portion of Hermosa Beach is subject to inundation from dam failure. Geologic and Seismic Hazards 411 Earthquakes and their related effects have the potential to affect a large portion of the city's population. Seismic activity causes pressure to build up along a fault, and the release of pressure results in ground shaking. Although Hermosa Beach is located in a seismically active region, there are no known active faults and the city is not susceptible to fault rupture. However, earthquakes can cause damage through ground shaking, liquefaction, and landslides. Historical records indicate that the Hermosa Beach has experienced ground shaking from a number of seismic events over the last century and a half. A landslide is the downhill movement of masses of earth material under the force of gravity. Factors contributing to landslide potential include steep slopes, unstable terrain, and proximity to earthquake faults. In Hermosa Beach, landslide hazards are limited to an area along the eastern city limit between 7th Place and 8th Street, an area above Gould Terrace, part of South Park, and properties located south of the park on Culper Court in the Coastal Zone (see Figure 6.2). Liquefaction is a phenomenon where soil behaves as a liquid during an earthquake. Liquefaction • occurs primarily in saturated and loose, fine - to medium -grained soils, in areas where the Figure 6.2 Liquefaction and Landslide Areas Legend Cp'Oound.ry�er..� Uawbgon tam — C61.YA law 8ountlry .�.r;:i E.ArquakNnbn.d Unclad* $on► groundwater table lies within 50 feet of the ground surface. As shown in Figure 6.2, much of the area west of Hermosa Avenue and an area along 2nd Street between Monterey Boulevard and Valley Drive are located atop soils susceptible to liquefaction, all within the Coastal Zone. Because liquefaction potential is related to groundwater depth, the number and size of areas subject to potential liquefaction could become larger as sea level rises and causes groundwater tables to rise. Additional geologic conditions within the Coastal Zone include expansive soils, corrosive soils, and subsidence. Soils and bedrock throughout Southern California have varying degrees of sulfate and corrosion potential. Corrosion of infrastructure can result in weakening of metal and resultant leaks to the environment. Expansive, collapsible, and corrosive soils are known to occur within Hermosa Beach and are currently analyzed and mitigated on a project -by -project basis. PLAN HERMOSA I 189 Tsunamis A tsunami is a series of long -period traveling ocean waves primarily generated by earthquakes occurring below or near the ocean floor. In the deep ocean, tsunami waves move with a speed exceeding 500 miles per hour and a wave height of only a few inches. As they reach shallow waters off the coast, the waves slow down and water can pile up into a wall up to 30 feet or more high. The probability of a tsunami in Hermosa Beach is extremely low. However, if a tsunami should occur, the consequences would be great. As illustrated in Figure 6.3, the tsunami inundation line runs parallel with Hermosa Avenue. While the frequency and magnitude of tsunamis are not directly affected by climate change, as sea level rises, the baseline and the maximum run- up of waves and surge generated by a tsunami also rise. Figure 6.3 Tsunami Map Public Ewe A bun.mlS n. ▪ �•� �" nun.mllnunMnaSonc / MI Public F.cilby • Fin/Poll. Ejj Ei Edwol 190 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY Shoreline Erosion The stretch of shoreline extending south of Los Angeles to the Palos Verdes Peninsula is highly vulnerable to shoreline change. This vulnerability is attributed to the soft substrate (sand dunes) the area has been built on, and reduced sediment flow south through the Santa Monica Bay. Natural processes, including coastal storms, particularly when combined with sea level rise, have the potential to erode and narrow the beach. Wide sandy beaches are considered one of Hermosa Beach's greatest recreational and economic assets. Among other things, the beach provides a buffer that protects residents, visitors, and businesses from coastal hazards. Substantial erosion would reduce recreational opportunities and increase exposure of assets such as beach restrooms, The Strand, and private property to coastal hazards. Over the last century, there has been heavy sand replenishment at neighboring Santa Monica Bay beaches. Hermosa Beach has benefited from beach replenishment upstream in the littoral cell which created a wider beach than would otherwise naturally exist. Additionally, King Harbor in Redondo Beach appears to serve as a sediment trap that prevents sand from being eroded along the shoreline. Absent continued beach replenishment in the littoral cell, it is anticipated that the shoreline would retreat at an accelerated rate as the sea level rises. Fire Hazards Fire hazards can come in the form of both wildfires and urban fires. Hermosa Beach is not generally exposed to wildfire risk, and no areas of Hermosa Beach are located within the wildfire hazard severity zones established by the State of California. However, much of the city is susceptible to the threat of urban fires. Given the susceptibility to earthquakes, the greatest urban fire threat is potential for burst natural gas or fuel lines resulting from seismic shaking. In the event of an urban fire, growth in the size of a fire is related to the type of building construction, water supply, fire department response time and resources, and building density and fire breaks. To reduce potential fire risks, the California Building Standards Code provides building design standards for new and rehabilitated buildings reduce the ignition and spread of fire. • Climate Change Impacts + Adaptation While climate change will not create new types of disasters in Hermosa Beach, it may instead make existing hazards become more severe or occur more frequently. While many of the City's existing disaster and emergency preparedness policies and programs are already in place to address disasters like coastal flooding, heat events, or severe weather, the intent of highlighting them here is to bring attention to a likely future change in the frequency or severity of these conditions and identify hazards that may require additional study, policy, or attention. Sea Level Rise Sea level rise is largely a result of warming ocean waters and melting ice caps. It is among the most certain consequences of climate change, and will affect the severity of most other coastal hazards in Hermosa Beach. Over the past century, sea level has risen by approximately 7 inches along the California coast, which is consistent with the observed global average. A 2012 study by the National Research Council, commissioned by the States of California, Oregon, and Washington to assess the state of sea level rise science for the West Coast, projected that sea level along Southern California's coast will rise approximately 12 inches by 2030, 2 feet by 2050, and 5.5 feet by 2100. While there remain scientific uncertainties around these "best estimates," the consensus among experts expressed in the NRC report is that the rate of sea level rise over the next several decades may be as much as four to nine times larger than that observed over the 20th century. Along the coast of Hermosa Beach and nearby portions of Los Angeles County, sea level rise could lead to the following impacts: • Increased erosion of beaches that are either already retreating or are maintained in place by sand replenishment. • Coastal flooding with higher storm surges and flood elevations during coastal storms. • Permanent inundation of the few remaining or restored coastal wetlands, as well as beaches and other low-lying areas. • Reduced capacity to absorb increased runoff and drain it away from inland areas as sea level rise elevates coastal groundwater levels. • Increased risk of liquefaction, leading to elevated coastal groundwater levels. • Saltwater intrusion into coastal groundwater basins from which freshwater is drawn to serve regional (residential and commercial) water users. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has developed the Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS) to make detailed predictions (meter - scale) of storm -induced coastal flooding, erosion and cliff failures over large geographic scales. This model has been refined for coastal areas in Los Angeles county to consider various sea level rise, storm, and erosion scenarios. Within Hermosa Beach, the 100 -year flood zone is projected to increase by about 300% under a scenario of 150 cm of sea level rise (from 0.034 square miles at present to 0.1 square miles with 55 inches of sea level rise). The projected flood zone extends beyond the sandy beach into developed portions of the Coastal Zone, encompassing more than 200 buildings, including 143 residential structures, and about 1,000 residents. The potential extent of flooding that may occur with 150 cm of sea level rise and various storm scenarios - no storm, annual storm, 100 -year storm - is depicted in Figures 6.4, 6.5, and 6.6. Since there is still some degree of uncertainty into the timing and extent of possible flooding, the topography of Hermosa Beach serves as an outer limit of flooding potential, with the maximum flooding potential under a 150 cm sea level rise scenario depicted in Figure 6.7. PLAN HERMOSA I 1 91 Figure 6.4 150 cm Sea Level Rise Scenario with No Storm 192 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY Figure 6.5 150 cm Sea Level Rise Scenario with Annual Storm C/14 oc I, .44 Wig Ar.j.s ti 4,szorVi stlidium• • • ....14• • . pr; ' • `. ,hh•v„,_.,' tirr PLAN HERMOSA I 193 Figure 6.6 150 cm Sea Level Rise Scenario with 100 -year Storm 1 '.1tY:ortilire' , ‘1; Mira Costa 4' 1: rt ,r7 P • : , o„-: "1,...- . A .1. f • 4,;.4• i IV ' 1' v -ill g 4 c -i-0,, ., • ..... *iv . • ...., •., .-.... • ,--s:-.A . itir, • ,k - • V3byjView. sc hcroitf.4 IL .chNi ...tins tit ' erinp crt; Beach . 43111 • 194 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY Figure 6.7 150 cm Sea Level Rise Scenario Maximum Flooding Potential ' . V , I:, ri7.4.. . • ''.. . Vied leyEjew 0 Sih 0 0 I .4 ' ''' riolPOSP 'Hermosa 0,0* ill, Beach , Hall t ...a ['T Minimum Flood Extent Maximum Flood Extent PLAN HERMOSA 1 195 Extreme Heat Since the early 20th Century, average surface temperatures worldwide have risen at an average rate of 0.15°F per decade (1.5°F per century). In the U.S. average surface temperatures have risen more quickly since the late 1970s (0.36 to 0.55°F per decade), with seven of the top ten warmest years on record since 1998. Scientists predict that over the next century, global temperatures will increase between 2.5°F and 10.4°F. For Hermosa Beach, scientists expect average temperatures to increase between 3.2°F and 5.6°F as shown in Figure 6.5. Along with changes to average annual temperature, climate change is expected to alter seasonal temperatures, where average July temperatures may increase by as much as 7°F. With these changes in average temperatures, Hermosa Beach is likely to see a significant increase in the number of days when temperature exceeds the extreme heat threshold of 84°F. Between 1950 and 2011, the average number of extreme heat days was four per year. In Hermosa Beach, the number of extreme heat days could increase to more than 30 per year by mid-century, and 50 per year by the end of the century (see Figure 6.8). Climate change, particularly extreme heat events, present serious health risks to California's most vulnerable populations. The effects of extreme heat (over 84°F) on human health are well documented. Increased temperature or extended periods of elevated temperatures can increase heat -related mortality, cardiovascular - related mortality, respiratory mortality, and heart attacks, while increasing hospital admissions and emergency room visits. Extreme heat can also affect a person's ability to thermo-regulate, causing heat stress and sometimes leading to death. Figure 6.8 Extreme heat days 111 ,xl IM: ws a: % s 2 :Y's sa= ac sac L'%t 1•j¢ ' .rs Jt 'y 196 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY Additional Climate Change Hazards Climate change may also create a variety of changes for California and have direct or indirect effects on Hermosa Beach, including: • Public health: Climate change is expected to exacerbate some forms of air pollution, increase extreme heat days, affect the timing or severity of allergens, and potentially increase incidences of infectious disease, particularly vector-, water-, and food -borne illness. • Precipitation: Research suggests that in California, annual precipitation amounts are likely to decrease by more than 15% by the end of the 21st century. Seasonal precipitation will change more significantly with March and April receiving less rainfall than in the past likely resulting in longer periods of drought, as the summer dry season starts earlier in the spring and extends later into the fall. Water: Regional population growth is likely to increase water demand as temperatures rise, while sea level rise threatens aging coastal water infrastructure. • Biological resources: Two-thirds of California's native flora will experience a greater than 80% reduction in suitable climate range. • Agriculture: May very likely see significantly declining yields due to warming. • Marine resources: Marine biological systems are strongly influenced by climate conditions including currents, winds, and temperatures, as well as ocean acidification. Changes to climatic and environmental conditions affect the specific ranges of plants and animals threatening the ability of species to survive. Energy sector: Higher temperatures combined are expected to increase demand for energy. Energy generation at hydroelectric plants may be reduced with changes in snow pack and precipitation. In California, studies predict that conditions will become hotter and drier, with decreased snow levels and accelerating rates of sea -level rise. California should also expect an increase in the intensity of extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods. California's extreme warm temperatures, which have historically occurred in July and August, will most likely extend into June and September. • • Emergency Preparedness Since the threat of many hazards cannot be avoided completely, reducing exposure and risk from those hazards to avoid damage or injury is the next best step. Exposure and risk to hazards can be minimized through retrofits and engineering of structures as well as education and training. Emergency Management The City of Hermosa Beach's Emergency Management Program works in coordination with all city departments to strengthen the City's ability to prepare for, mitigate against, respond to, and recover from natural, technological and human - caused disasters. Additionally, it provides services to the City organizations and the community to prepare for emergencies. A variety of activities, programs, and projects designed to enhance the City's preparedness are conducted annually. The current Emergency Management Program includes all elements necessary to respond quickly and effectively to major emergencies such as the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). Preparedness Events and Drills • In Hermosa Beach, the responsibility for reducing risk and exposure engages many departments, including Community Development, Public Works, and the Fire Department, in particular the City's Emergency Manager. Additional support for emergency preparedness policy and education in Hermosa Beach is provided by the City's Emergency Preparedness Advisory Commission. Educational programs, events, and drills like the Annual Fire Inspection Program, the Tsunami Walk, and the Great California Shakeout ensure the community and City staff are prepared and ready to respond quickly to reduce injury and damage in the event of a disaster. Critical Facilities Critical facilities include utilities, roads, hospitals, fire and police stations, emergency operations centers, communication centers, high-risk or high -occupancy facilities, and care facilities with special evacuation considerations. Critical facilities must maintain operational continuity during a disaster to continue their function of supporting emergency responders, providing basic services, and protecting vulnerable residents. • The Fire Department depends on access to pressurized water to fight fires and respond to other disasters. While there is no standard water flow rate for fire response, California Water Service Company (Cal Water) collaborates with the City and project applicants to ensure that required flows for new and significantly redeveloped projects are met. The City's development review process requires Cal Water and fire approval for new and significant redevelopment projects. During the preparation of this General Plan, the Fire Department confirmed that parked cars or existing roadway widths hinder neither its apparatus nor personnel. New roadway construction will be subject to applicable provisions of the California Building Code, Chapter 15.36 of the California Fire Code, and other design regulations. The City's development review process requires Fire Department approval for new and significant redevelopment projects, as well as for projects involving vehicular circulation facilities. Community Risk Reduction Community risk reduction is the identification and prioritization of risks followed by the coordinated application of resources to minimize the probability or occurrence and/or the impact of unfortunate events. It means that the Fire Department exists not only to respond to emergencies after the fact, but also acts proactively as a risk reduction entity for the community to prevent or reduce the effects of their occurrence in the first place. These preventative measures are provided through fire prevention plan check, inspections, code enforcement and public education. The plan checks ensure businesses and residences are constructed up to the latest codes including sprinkler systems, smoke alarms, and heat regulating technologies. The inspections confirm that the businesses and residences are built as approved and continue to function in a safe manner. Code enforcement activities include but are not limited to fireworks, bonfire, and overcrowding mitigation. Finally, the public education aspect of community risk reduction includes school presentations, service group and neighborhood watch talks, and fire station tours. PLAN HERMOSA 1 197 Fire Protection The Fire Department provides fire protection, emergency medical services, and disaster preparedness and response. The mission is to protect life and property from fire and other emergencies through incident response, public education, and code enforcement. Hermosa Beach has one fire station located at 540 Pier Avenue and an emergency operations center, and maintains emergency notification systems and social media platforms. Beginning in 2018, fire services in Hermosa Beach will be provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD). Fire Response Regional communications and dispatch services are provided for Hermosa Beach by the LA County Fire Department Command Center. The Command Center processes approximately 1,000 police and fire incidents daily across 58 cities in LA County. In Hermosa Beach, 2,427 calls were reported between May 1, 2012, and April 30, 2013, as recorded in the National Fire Incident Reporting System. Of these, 1,152 calls were for emergency medical service (EMS) (47.4%), 322 were for fire incidents (13.2%), and 186 calls were canceled (7.7%). Hermosa Beach received 775 calls for mutual aid requests within other jurisdictions (31.9%), of which 314 calls were canceled. Hermosa Beach received an average of 6.6 calls per day throughout the year, with the highest average number of calls per day occurring in July (7.8), January (7.5), and June (7.4). The average number of units dispatched was 2.4 for EMS calls, and 1.7 for fire calls. Mutual Aid Agreements Because no community has resources sufficient to cope with all emergencies that could occur, a statewide system of mutual aid provides assistance. Hermosa Beach has automatic aid agreements with the Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach Fire Departments. This means that the dispatch of units to an incident is handled automatically by the dispatch center. Hermosa Beach also has mutual aid agreements with the Torrance and El Segundo Fire Departments. Under the mutual aid agreement, units from Torrance, and El Segundo could be dispatched to Hermosa Beach. Likewise, units from Hermosa Beach could be requested to assist in those jurisdictions. Mutual aid requests are processed through the California Office of Emergency Services. Under this system, each jurisdiction relies on its own and/or neighboring jurisdiction's resources to deal with an incident before calling for outside assistance. • • • • Emergency Medical Response Prehospital 9-1-1 emergency response is one of the essential public safety functions provided by the Fire Department in support of community health, security and prosperity. Fire service -based emergency medical services (EMS) systems are strategically positioned to deliver time critical response and effective patient care. Fire service - based EMS provides this pivotal public safety service while also emphasizing responder safety, competent and compassionate workers, and cost- effective operations. Public Access Defibrillators The purpose of the Hermosa Beach Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program is to increase the chances of survival for people who have heart - related emergencies. PAD allows individuals to be better prepared to save the life of a coworker, friend, family member or stranger. Ninety-five percent of sudden cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital, chances of survival may increase to 74% if shocked in 3 minutes or less. The goal of the program is to deliver defibrillation to a cardiac arrest victim within three to five minutes after collapse by placing Automated External Defibrillators (AED's) throughout City facilities. Lifeguard Services As millions of visitors are attracted to Hermosa Beach each year, ocean protection and lifeguarding services are important public services that ensure safe use and enjoyment of the beach. The City contracts with the Los Angeles County Fire Department's Lifeguard Division for these services. The Lifeguard Division operates out of four sectional headquarters, one of which is located in Hermosa Beach. The Hermosa Beach sectional headquarters staffs a 24-hour emergency medical technician response unit, and is connected to the 911 system. The City of Hermosa Beach and LA County Lifeguards work collaboratively to maintain safe operation of the beach and shoreline facilities such as the Hermosa Beach Pier. During storm events or other circumstances requiring beach closure to protect public safety, the City of Hermosa Beach will close the pier until such hazards are no longer present. Hazardous Materials The goal of the Fire Department is to protect life, property, and environment and provide economic stability from all hazards. This requires a highly trained adaptable workforce that has the ability to quickly recognize hazards and limit the public's exposure to those hazards. This often requires working in tandem with other City organizations and mutual aid partners. Firefighters are trained and equipped to address emergencies arising from any type of hazard natural or technological, accidental or intentional. Although Hermosa Beach includes historic hazardous sites, most have been successfully remediated and are no longer considered hazardous. Lead and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) contamination affects the northeast corner of the City Maintenance Yard. Hazardous materials are transported through Hermosa Beach on highways and City streets. The US Department of Transportation regulates the transport of hazardous materials on major transportation corridors such as Pacific Coast Highway as well as on designated truck routes in Hermosa Beach, such as portions of Pier Avenue, Valley Drive, Herondo Street, and Artesia Boulevard. When acutely toxic hazardous materials are transported, the California Highway Patrol must be notified. If City streets are used, the Police Department and Fire Department must also be notified. The Fire Department would be the field incident commander for a hazardous materials incident. The Los Angeles County Fire Department manages potential hazardous materials situations and is the designated Certified Unified Program Agency for Hermosa Beach. Additionally, in the event of a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE) release within or near Hermosa Beach, the City would work with the LA County Operational Area through mutual aid agreements to respond. PLAN HERMOSA I 199 Police + Fire Community Programs and Events . The Hermosa Beach Police Department (HBPD) is a full-service Police Department providing police protection services to preserve peace and prevent crime and disorder by enforcing state laws and City ordinances. Its primary mission is to maintain safety and protect the community through law enforcement, crime prevention and criminal apprehension. The HBPD responds to emergency situations and patrols neighborhoods, commercial areas, and the beach to promote a safe environment. The staff maintains official criminal records, investigates crime, and in an emergency, assesses the situation and dispatches appropriate responders. Police services provided include: (1) Detective Bureau (2) Honor Guard Detail (3) Mounted Enforcement Unit (4) Narcotics K9 Units (5) Patrol (6) Reserve Unit (7) Traffic Bureau (8) Volunteers in Policing (9) Community Service. The HBPD operates one police station, located at 540 Pier Avenue. Officers are assigned to City and beach -related events including beach volleyball, concerts on the beach, the Surf Festival, Hermosa Arts Fair, and the Hermosa Triathlon. The two days of the year which draw the largest crowds are the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve, days in which the entire department is deployed. Calls for Service Regional communications and dispatch services are provided for the HBPD by the South Bay Regional Public Communications Authority (RCC). The RCC processes approximately 312,000 police and fire incidents annually in the cities of El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, and Manhattan Beach. Between July 1, 2014 -June 30, 2015 HBPD officers handled 25,266 calls which included officer initiated calls. This averages approximately 69 calls per day. Of those calls, approximately 27 percent (6784 calls) were initiated by the police, and 73 percent or 18,482 calls were direct calls from the public. Approximately 19 percent of total calls for service (5015) were for traffic enforcement. For HBPD response, a priority code of 1 to 4 is assigned to each call by the dispatch center, with 1 being the highest priority. Between July 2014 -June 2015, the highest priority calls were responded to within 5.48 minutes from call initiation to on scene, or 3.67 minutes from time of dispatch to onscene. Police + Fire Accomplishments of 2014-2015: • Public Information Banners • Automatic Aid Agreement with Manhattan Beach • Opticom Traffic Pre-Emption System • Accela Asset Management • Electronic Patient Care Reporting (ePCR) • Smart Classroom • National Night Out • Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) • Fire Ground Survival (FGS) • Sidewalk CPR • Respiratory Protection Program • Emergency Management Coordinator • Santa Sleigh Ride • Pancake Breakfast/Open House • Fire Station Traffic Signal • New Fire Engine and Rescue Ambulance • Deployment Study • Community CPR/AED Training • Annual Fire and Life Safety Inspections • Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) Update • Fireground Survival (FGS) Training • CERT Training 200 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Crime + Safety The diversity of people and events within the City of Hermosa Beach challenges the HBPD to sustain the high quality of life within the City, while also ensuring both the safety of visitors and the enforcement of codes within the City's limits. HBPD strives to maintain the highest levels of professionalism, honesty and fairness through engagement and enforcement strategies to create a safe and healthy environment for everyone that lives, works, or plays in Hermosa Beach. Crime Rates As defined by the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program, seven major Part I offenses are used to measure the extent, fluctuation, and distribution of serious crime. Part I crimes are split into violent crimes (murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft). In 2014, Hermosa Beach reported 37 crimes Part I violent crimes or 1.9 reported crimes per 1,000 residents, and 543 Part I property crimes or 27.3 reported crimes per 1,000 residents. The reported number of violent crimes was 53 percent lower than the statewide rate, and 49 percent lower than the national rate. Property crime rates were 12 percent higher than the state average, and 5 percent higher than the national average. Crime Prevention through Smart Technology and Environmental Design In addition to police protections, and the increased use of surveillance technologies, the City can reduce crime through smart environmental design. The concepts of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) offer non-invasive measures to prevent crime in the city. The central tenets of CPTED include clearly demarcating property boundaries, designing buildings and spaces to face streets for natural surveillance purposes, controlling access to sites and buildings through pathways and bollards, supporting legitimate street level recreational activities, and maintaining public spaces. CPTED concepts enable developers and designers to incorporate crime prevention measures into building design and City staff to incorporate crime prevention intentions into maintenance and recreation program schedules. PLAN HERMOSA 'I 201 Police Programs and Resources To fulfill HBPD's commitment to a safe community, the City has prioritized communication and engagement strategies. The following is a list of HBPD's engagement programs and services. These act as excellent resources and maintain active communication between officers and the Hermosa Beach community. Hermosa Beach Community Police: The Hermosa Beach Community Police Academy is designed to inform residents and local citizens on the various aspects of law enforcement. The free course is designed for Hermosa Beach residents and business owners who are interested in learning more about how the Hermosa Beach Police Department functions and operates. Hermosa Beach Community Police Advisory Board: In 2015, the Hermosa Beach Community Police Advisory Board was established to serve as a liaison between the Hermosa Beach Police Department and the local community. Online Crime Reporting: The online crime reporting system gives residents another way to report concerns directly to HBPD. This system allows officers to quickly address issues or complaints, which allows them to better fulfill their mission. Community Notifications: HBPD has an active Facebook page and utilizes the Nixie Community Alert System to provide residents with news of safety and crime updates in the city. These notification systems showcase the department's commitment to increased communication and strengthens community participation. Hermosa Beach Neighborhood Watch (HBNW): HBNW partners with the Police Department to educate the community on crime prevention and awareness, observation skills training, and reporting. The program provides resources, training sessions, and activities that improve life of Hermosa Beach residents and brings unity to neighborhoods. "Home Check Program": Hermosa Beach residents who are leaving town for a period of time or are having their homes fumigated can have Hermosa Beach Police Department Volunteers (VIPS) and/or Police Officers conduct daily/weekly exterior checks of their homes. Residents can provide contact information while theyare away in the event something is found abnormal. 202 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY "You are Not Alone Program" : Family members can receive help from the Hermosa Beach Police Department to check on their senior citizen family members who live alone in Hermosa Beach. Hermosa Beach Police Department Volunteers (VIPS) and/or Police Officers, upon request, can conduct weekly visits with identified senior citizens. The Volunteer and/or Police Officer during the visit will document: medications taken by the senior, doctor contact information, physical condition of the senior, and general living conditions (available food, cleanliness, etc.). "Homeward Bound Program": Seniors with Alzheimer's disease can provide (via family member) the Hermosa Beach Police Department with their personal information and family contact information. This information is vital in contacting family members in the event the senior is located away from their home/care facility. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM; IN FORCE �rE IMMEDIATELY REPORT ALkt'SUSPIGQ9$ PENStiGS ANAND !TIES P�E D. • • • • Noise + Vibration The City of Hermosa Beach is located in an urbanized and developed environment that is subject to numerous noise sources. The primary noise source in the city is currently vehicular traffic along local streets, especially Aviation Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. In addition, typical urban noise sources (e.g., hospitality businesses such as bars and restaurants, entertainment venues, community events, construction activities, landscape equipment, refuse collection, and emergency vehicle sirens) contribute to the overall noise environment. Because of the city's distance from airports - Los Angeles International Airport, Torrance Municipal Airport, and the Hawthorne Municipal Airport are each located approximately 5.5 miles from the City - noise from aircraft over -flights is not considered excessive. Traffic Noise In order to document the existing traffic noise environment in Hermosa Beach, measurements were obtained at 10 locations throughout the city during the month of August 2014. All of the measured ambient noise levels (measured in decibels or dB) were well above the City's current Noise Element policy standards. This policy restricts maximum ambient noise to the following levels: Table 6.1 Hermosa Beach Maximum Ambient Noise Levels ?1 r »: ny hob ,Zoning c �a{Maz R-1 �"�aB+P�r +tM'n". f "`�"'a ,,� � mum Ambient Noise; Levels �' N, 45 dBA or below (also schools, hospitals, nurseries and rest homes) R-2 50 dBA or below (also parks and playgrounds) R-3 55 dBA or below C-1 55 dBA or below C-2 / C-3 60 dBA or below M 65 dBA or below The results of the noise measurements, together with data provided in the Circulation Element, were used to analyze and calibrate the existing traffic noise environment in the City of Hermosa Beach. The results of the analysis are provided as a noise contour map in Figure 6.9. The map provides the existing CNEL contours ranging from 60 dB to 70 dB in 5 dB increments. Using data provided in the Mobility Element, two future (Year 2040) traffic scenarios were also analyzed for the city. The first scenario assumes that the city continues to develop based on the policies identified in the current General Plan (October 1979), while the second scenario assumes that the city develops in the future based on the objectives, goals, and policies outlined in PLAN Hermosa. Figure 6.10 provides a noise contour map for the PLAN Hermosa scenario. Table 6.2 summarizes the results of the analyses for the existing and future traffic scenarios. The results are presented in terms of an unmitigated CNEL at the distance of the nearest existing receptor from the centerline of the roadway segment. Referring to the table, there is anticipated to be relatively little change in traffic noise exposures in the future within the City of Hermosa Beach. The anticipated changes of up to ±2 dB from existing traffic noise levels will not be noticeable to the majority of residents. However, comparing the two future year scenarios that were analyzed, the adoption of PLAN Hermosa is expected to result in a slightly quieter future noise environment within the city. The State of California's Building Code Standards require that all multi -family residential dwellings be designed to achieve a CNEL of 45 dB within the interior of all habitable spaces. The City of Hermosa Beach's current Noise Element extends this requirement to include all single-family residential dwellings as well. Typically, residential construction in California provides about 20 dB of noise reduction with all windows and doors closed. Therefore, it may be reasonably assumed that all residential dwellings located in an area where the exterior CNEL is 65 dB or less will be exposed to an interior CNEL of 45 dB or less, complying with both the State's standard and the City of Hermosa Beach's Noise Element policy. Referring to Table 2, the CNEL is estimated to be 65 dB or less at the exterior of all residential dwellings adjacent to the street segments analyzed for this study with the following exceptions: residences adjacent to Aviation Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Prospect Avenue, and adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway between Artesia Boulevard and 2nd Street. This is the case for existing traffic volumes in the city as well as for both future year (2040) traffic scenarios (i.e., with and without the implementation of PLAN Hermosa). PLAN HERMOSA I 203 Figure 6.9 Existing Noise Contours within the City of Hermosa Beach wisil$16'0 � �-- �,1unlnn uI u: �,�,.''�� ■11H1�1,11 X11® ,` : 0X11 •..— .* illuer.,--......hittE ,, 1 flir a cpw.41 — ir ill Ali !IO . ,,;?)11111, II1111%, '• l,I1IlIII11II . 'III :111111111111111: I I II I 111. 1111 I 1 U ,1nrriI CND., dB > 70. 65 70 60 65 <_ 60 204 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY 1r► • • • Figure 6.10 Future (2040) Noise Contours in the City of Hermosa Beach with PLAN Hermosa • • 1 HlI1IIII�li 111 111 Uu iii II 1111111111.1 1111 11 111 1! II■ CNEL, dB > 70 65 - 70 60 - 65 <= 60 PLAN HERMOSA 1 205 Table 6.2 Existing and Future Traffic Noise Levels at the Nearest Sensitive Receptors Roadway/Segment�i r pry 8th Street Hermosa to Valley PCH to Prospect CNEL t A`Exi',,,. , ear � (... m+r1�,.xxtl 4t.4 �.. 57 dB 47 dB at Nearest Sensitive Receptor Year 2040 with ' , ; PLAN:Herm'osay r, a��tJ i ... � �" 57 dB 45 dB Ye%ar 2040 without, 'Ru�i.,r PLAN'Hierm'osan 57 dB 45 dB Ardmore Avenue 16th to 11th 8th to 2nd 58 dB 57 dB 58 dB 56 dB 58 dB 57 dB Artesia Boulevard PCH to Prospect 65 dB 65 dB 65 dB Aviation Boulevard PCH to Prospect 70 dB 69 dB 69 dB Gould Avenue Ardmore to PCH 64 dB 63 dB 64 dB Hermosa Avenue 27th to 22nd 22nd to 16th 16th to 8th 8th to Herondo 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB 62 dB 62 dB 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB 63 dB Herondo Street Hermosa to Valley 65 dB 65 dB 65 dB Pacific Coast Highway Artesia to 16th 16th to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 72 dB 67 dB 68 dB 71 dB 67 dB 67 dB 72 dB 67 dB 67 dB Pier Avenue Hermosa to Valley Ardmore to PCH 62 dB 65 dB 62 dB 64 dB 62 dB 65 dB Prospect Avenue Artesia to Aviation Aviation to 2nd 59 dB 63 dB 60 dB 63 dB 61 dB 64 dB Valley Drive Gould to Pier Pier to 8th 59 dB 60 dB 58 dB. 59 d6" 59 dB 60 dB 206 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Bar and Restaurant Noise Noise from bars and restaurants is a frequent source of complaints in beach communities, including Hermosa Beach. Often this is because the bars and restaurants have outdoor dining areas, operate late into the night, and/or provide live or recorded entertainment. Because bar and restaurant noise typically consists primarily of human speech or laughter, as well as music, it stands out from the background ambient "hum" produced by traffic and by waves crashing on the beach. This increases its potential to annoy nearby residents. The low frequency content of music (e.g., bass guitars and drums) easily propagates through walls and windows over large distances, increasing the area that is affected by the bar or restaurant. The noise level produced by a bar or restaurant varies widely depending on a number of factors. Measurements indicate that average noise levels within the building can range from 75 dBA (with low background music or no music at all) to over 95 dBA (with entertainment). Maximum noise levels can be up to 20 dBA higher than these average levels. Typical building construction will reduce these noise levels by about 10 dB with windows and doors open, or by about 20 dB with windows and doors closed. Outdoor dining areas can produce average noise levels of 65 dBA to 70 dBA and maximum noise levels of 85 dBA to 90 dBA at a distance of 20 feet from the dining area. The City of Hermosa Beach does not have quantitative standards by which to assess the impact of noise from bars and restaurants. Rather, the City's Municipal Code regulates it in the following manner: • Prohibits "repeated or sustained noise from the premises of any commercial establishment which is adjacent to one or more residential dwelling units, including any outdoor area part of or under the control of the establishment, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. that is plainly audible from the residential dwelling unit's property line." • Prohibits "sustained amplified music from the premises of any commercial establishment on Pier Plaza that is plainly audible eighty (80) feet from the property line of the establishment." • Requires that "all exterior doors and windows of a business establishment located on Pier Plaza shall be closed while amplified music is being played in the establishment." Event and Party Noise Hermosa Beach plays host to a number of public and private events throughout the year. For the most part, these events take place at the beach or around the pier, with occasional events held downtown or in a park. Some of these events (for example, the summer concerts at the beach) can generate significant levels of noise that can be heard over large areas of the city. To identify typical noise levels that can be generated by these events, a measurement was obtained on The Strand in front of a residence during a summer concert being held at the pier. The results of the measurement indicated median noise levels of 73 dBA and maximum noise levels of 82 dBA. The City of Hermosa Beach does not regulate the noise levels generated by public and private events held on public property other than to require that a permit be obtained prior to the use of sound amplification equipment. The permit application does specify location/direction, hours and time limits, but does not require the applicant to identify the noise levels that will be generated by the equipment. In general, the Chief of Police must approve the application unless, among other things, he or she determines that issuance of the permit would substantially interfere with the peace and quiet of the neighborhood or community. Commercial/Industrial Activity Noise Within Hermosa Beach, industrial properties are generally concentrated along Cypress Avenue between 8th Street and South Park. These properties are occupied by various light manufacturing facilities, warehouses, construction supply sites, a surfboard manufacturing use, auto shops, air conditioning and heating manufacturing uses, and the City's maintenance yard. Surrounding these industrial properties are various residential properties, commercial properties, and South Park. Another industrial property, occupied by a telecommunications company, is located on Valley Drive adjacent to a mobile home park and Hermosa Valley School. Commercial properties are generally concentrated along Pacific Coast Highway, Pier Avenue, Hermosa Avenue, Aviation Boulevard, and Artesia Boulevard. They include retail stores and shopping centers, hotels and motels, restaurants, professional office spaces, auto -related uses, entertainment uses, and personal services. These commercial properties are typically backed by noise -sensitive residential properties. PLAN HERMOSA I 207 The primary complaints associated with commercial/industrial properties are related to noise generated by trucks and heavy equipment, loading dock operations, trucks entering and leaving the area, and mechanical equipment located both inside and outside the buildings. Commercial/ industrial noise impacts primarily result when activities occur during noise -sensitive times of the day (early morning, evening, or nighttime hours), or the activities occur in areas immediately adjoining noise -sensitive land uses. The City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code provides no quantitative standards by which to identify and assess potential noise impacts resulting from commercial/ industrial operations. Rather, it limits the hours during which certain specific noise sources can occur. The City's General Plan identifies "noise tolerance standards" for various types of land uses within the City, ranging from 45 dBA or below for R-1 zones (including schools, hospitals, nurseries, and rest homes) to 65 dBA or below for M zones. It is likely that the City's General Plan "noise tolerance standards" are being exceeded at all residential properties located adjacent to commercial/industrial properties. Refuse Collection Noise Trash pickup and compacting vehicles typically use hydraulic equipment to raise and lower the trash bins and to compact their contents. Typical noise levels range from 80 to 85 dBA at 50 feet during the raising, lowering and compacting operations. A typical trash pickup takes approximately three minutes, with the higher noise levels occur during about one-half of the operation. Noises associated with refuse collection are disturbances that are necessary for the health and welfare of a community. They are not regulated by the City of Hermosa Beach. 208 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY Construction/Demolition Noise Construction activities generate considerable amounts of noise, especially during the demolition phase and the construction of project infrastructure when heavy equipment is used. Noise levels resulting from construction depend on the number and types of construction equipment being used, the timing and duration of noise - generating activities, and the distance between construction noise sources and receptors. The highest maximum noise levels generated by project construction typically range from about 90 to 105 dBA at a distance of 50 feet from the noise source. Typical hourly average construction - generated noise levels are about 81 dBA to 89 dBA measured at a distance of 50 feet from the center of the site during busy construction periods, such as when earth moving equipment and impact tools are being used. Construction -generated noise levels drop off at a rate of about 6 dBA per doubling of distance between the source and receptor. Shielding by buildings or terrain often result in much lower construction noise levels at distant receptors. Typically, small residential, commercial, or office construction projects do not generate significant noise impacts when standard construction noise control measures are enforced at the project site and when the duration of the noise -generating construction period is relatively short (typically one year or less). Construction noises associated with projects of this type are disturbances that are necessary for the construction or repair of buildings and structures in urban areas. Larger construction projects are typically built out over more than one year, and some construction methods, such as pile driving, generate higher noise levels and noise that would be considered impulsive. Construction noise impacts primarily result when construction activities occur during noise -sensitive times of the day (early morning, evening, or nighttime hours), the construction occurs in areas immediately adjoining noise -sensitive land uses, or when construction durations last over extended periods of time. The City of Hermosa Beach minimizes the potential for noise impacts by limiting the hours when construction can occur. • • • • Construction/Demolition Vibration The only significant vibration source within the City of Hermosa Beach is construction equipment. Construction of new projects on sites adjacent to existing developments could result in the generation of excessive ground -borne vibration on a temporary basis. Construction activities may include demolition of existing structures, site preparation work, excavation of below grade levels, foundation work, pile driving, and framing. Demolition activity at an individual site may last several weeks and at times may produce substantial vibration. Excavation for underground levels could also occur on some project sites and vibratory pile driving could be used to stabilize the walls of the excavated area. Piles or drilled caissons may also be used to support building foundations. Pile driving has the potential to generate the highest ground vibration levels and is the greatest risk factor in causing structural damage, particularly when it occurs within 100 feet of structures. Vibration levels generated by pile driving activities would vary depending on project conditions including type, construction methods, and equipment used. Other construction activities, such as caisson drilling, the use of jackhammers, rock drills and other high-power or vibratory tools, and rolling stock equipment (tracked vehicles, compactors, etc.) may also generate substantial vibration in the immediate vicinity of the site. Depending on the proximity of existing structures to each construction site, the structural soundness of the existing buildings, and the methods of construction used, vibration levels caused by pile driving or other impact work may be high enough to damage existing structures. The City of Hermosa Beach has no regulations by which to assess the potential impacts associated with groundborne vibration levels. Table 6.3 Interior and Exterior Noise Standards Notes: 1. Outdoor environment limited to private yard of single-family residences; private patios of multi -family residences that are accessed by a means of exit from inside the unit; mobile home park; hospital patio; park picnic area; school playground; and hotel and motel recreation area. 2. Interior environment excludes bathrooms, toilets, closets, and corridors. Noise level requirement is with windows closed. Mechanical ventilation system or other means of natural ventilation shall be provided pursuant to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code (UBC). PLAN HERMOSA 1 209 y ommunityN•iseEqui maNnotwolltioiwoott4orttkottogovortwe06444.} Exterior fxpr Exterior k^°� 65 dB alentlevel(CNEL), " °.*� 0 4,4101,0, x: Interior .. �:�. 45 dB Residential Hotels/Motels 65 dB 45 dB Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing Homes 65 dB 45 dB Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters 65 dB 45 dB Sports Arena, outdoor Spectator Sports 65 dB N/A Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks 70 dB N/A Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries 75 dB N/A Office Buildings, Business Commercial and Professional 70 dB 50 dB Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture 75 dB 65 dB Notes: 1. Outdoor environment limited to private yard of single-family residences; private patios of multi -family residences that are accessed by a means of exit from inside the unit; mobile home park; hospital patio; park picnic area; school playground; and hotel and motel recreation area. 2. Interior environment excludes bathrooms, toilets, closets, and corridors. Noise level requirement is with windows closed. Mechanical ventilation system or other means of natural ventilation shall be provided pursuant to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code (UBC). PLAN HERMOSA 1 209 Table 6.4 Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix Uses • ,'• Single-, multi- family ommunity _ ;<55 dB A Noise'Equivalen# ,55,dBn A 60 dB ',�,65 B Level dB , B (CNEL) _ 7Q'dB, C $ x,75 dB, t i /t +' D D Mobile home A A B C C D D Hotel, motel, transient lodging A A B B C C D Retail, bank, restaurant, movie theater A A A A B B C Office building, research & development, professional office A A A B B C D Amphitheater, concert hall, auditorium, meeting hall B B C C D D D Children's amusement park, miniature golf, go-cart track, health club, equestrian center A A A B B D D Service station, auto dealer, manufacturing, warehousing, wholesale, utilities A A A A B B B Hospital, church, library, school classrooms A A B C C D D Parks A A A B C D D Golf course, nature center, cemetery, wildlife reserve, wildlife habitat A A A A B C C Agriculture A A A A A A A Interpretation: Zone A, Clearly Compatible Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that buildings are of normal conventional construction without any special noise insulation requirements. Zone B, New construction or development should be undertaken only after detailed Normally Compatible analysis of the noise reduction requirements are made and needed noise insulation features in the design are determined. Conventional construction, with closed windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning, will normally suffice. Zone C, Normally Incompatible New construction or development should normally be discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis or noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features must be included in the design. Zone D, Clearly Incompatible New construction or development should generally not be undertaken. 210 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Goals and Policies To address the risk of natural and man-made hazards, Public Safety approaches in Hermosa Beach are formed by the need for flexible and resilient options that will help the city thrive. Hermosa's approach to public safety will reduce potential risks or exposure to natural and man-made hazards, build community capacity and preparedness for unavoidable hazards, ensure efficient response to hazardous events, and enact recovery plans to build greater resiliency to future hazards. Goal 1. Injuries and Toss of life are prevented, and property Toss and damage are minimized. etZaTriP To protect the community from avoidable risk and harm by factoring natural hazards such as seismic hazards, flooding, landslides, severe weather events, and fires into community planning and outreach, maintenance and upgrades, and municipal operations. Policies 1.1 Evaluate risks. Buildings and infrastructure will be periodically evaluated for seismic, fire, flood, and coastal storm hazard risks and identified risks will be minimized by complying with California Building Code standards and other applicable regulations. 1.2 Prepare geotechnical reports. Geotechnical reports will be prepared for new development projects in areas with the potential for liquefaction or landslide. 1.3 Tsunami Playbook. Work with Los Angeles County and utilize resources such as the Tsunami Playbook in the evaluation and response of tsunami risk. 1.4 Reduce fire hazards. Reduce fire hazards associated with older buildings, multi -story structures, and industrial facilities. 1.5 Minimize coastal flooding. Natural interventions, green infrastructure, and infiltration systems will be utilized to minimize damage from coastal flooding. 1.6 Minimize coastal hazards. Injuries and Toss of life are prevented, and property loss and damage from coastal hazards are minimized. 1.7 Reduce flood vulnerability. Encourage existing structures, critical facilities, and infrastructure to reduce flood vulnerability. 1.8 Reduce stormwater runoff. Reduce stormwater runoff consistent with local stormwater permits. 1.9 Facilitate retrofits. Encourage and facilitate retrofits of seismically high-risk buildings. 1.10 Consider site-specific soil conditions. Require new structures to consider site-specific soil conditions. 1.11 Secure funds. Establish centralized internal procedures to coordinate efforts for securing funds that support risk reduction measures. 1.12 Evacuation routes. Identify and regularly evaluate or update evacuation and response procedures through the Emergency Operations Plan. PLAN HERMOSA I 211 Goal 2. The anticipated effects of sea level rise are understood, prepared for, and successfully mitigated. With the sandy beach considered one of Hermosa's greatest natural assets for aesthetic, safety, and recreational tourism purposes, the loss or erosion of the beach due to sea level rise would be catastrophic to the vitality of Hermosa Beach. By monitoring, evaluating, and enacting interventions to address changes in sea levels, and greater effects of storm events, Hermosa Beach will be well positioned to minimize infrastructure and private property vulnerabilities. Policies 2.1 Integrate resilience. Integrate resilience to anticipated sea level rise impacts into project designs when repairing and replacing aging infrastructure within the coastal zone. 2.2 Sea level rise impacts. Require new development and redevelopment projects to consider and address relevant sea level rise impacts. 2.3 Enhance awareness. Enhance local understanding of sea level rise and keep decision - makers and the community aware of potential impacts based on best available science. 2.4 Provide public information. Provide public information describing new flooding risks under a 55 -inch sea level rise scenario in areas previously not affected by flooding. 2.5 Maintain beach widths. Maintain or expand current beach widths under changing sea level conditions. 2.6 Consider combined effects of hazards. Consider the combined effects of sea level rise when evaluating potential tsunami and storm surge impacts. 2.7 Support regional approaches. Support regional approaches to sediment management, beach replenishment, and adaptive shoreline protection to allow Hermosa Beach to voice its needs, allow for coordination with neighboring jurisdictions, and identify creative finance mechanisms to continue the replenishment program. 2.8 Identify erosion problems. Continue to monitor beach width and elevations to identify potential erosion problems. 2.9 Beach nourishment and replenishment. Consider allowing construction projects with sand excavation to add sand for beach replenishment or nourishment purposes. 212 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Goal 3. Hermosa Beach residents, businesses, and coastal resources are protected from hazardous materials. Minimizing community exposure to hazardous and potentially hazardous materials, especially those that can reduce exposure to delayed, chronic and/or acute health effects. Policies 3.1 Hazardous material setbacks. Restrict the storage and transport of hazardous materials only to areas where risks to residents are adequately minimized through setbacks or other measures. 3.2 Hazardous material incident response. Coordinate with allied agencies to prepare for and respond to hazardous materials incidents. 3.3 Use, storage and transport. Require businesses that use, store, or transport hazardous materials to ensure that adequate measures are taken to protect public health and safety. 3.4 Hazardous materials in Coastal Zone. Restrict the siting of new uses involving hazardous materials in the Coastal Zone to coastal -related industrial uses in the Cypress District. 3.5 Safe disposal practices. Maintain City's website and other outlets with information regarding the safe handling and disposal of household chemicals. 3.6 Hazardous waste disposal. Revise, update, and maintain hazardous waste and construction materials standards for the necessary, proper, and effective disposal of hazardous waste. PLAN HERMOSA I 213 Goal 4. The community has the capacity and is prepared for unavoidable hazards. The community's ability to react and respond during hazardous events is predicated on both an awareness of the potential risks, and an understanding of how to respond to hazardous events. Policies 4.1 Public awareness. Increase public awareness of hazards, emergency response, and recovery through updated evacuation routes and informational signage. 4.2 Promote community-based and volunteer programs. Promote community-based programs in fire safety and emergency preparedness, including neighborhood -level and business programs and community volunteer groups such as CERT, Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Policing and the Amateur Radio Association. 4.3 SEMS and NIMS training. Increase City employee capacity through the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant training and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) drills to identify hazards, and assist in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. 4.4 City media and communication resources. Maintain the City's emergency communication policy and protocols and utilize City media resources, emergency alert notification systems, and program advertising to provide information and communicate with the community prior to, during, or after events posing risk to community health safety, and welfare. 4.5 Responsive neighborhood groups. Encourage neighborhood groups, including Neighborhood Watch, to identify, consider, and prepare for the needs of neighbors with access and functional needs to adequately respond to disasters. 4.6 Vulnerable populations. Incorporate procedures into emergency and hazard mitigation plans to take care of vulnerable populations during hazardous events. 4.7 Communicate risks. Regularly evaluate, identify, and communicate new hazard risks and incorporate into planning and programs. 214 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Goal 5. High quality police and fire protection services provided to residents and visitors. Providing fire, police, and emergency medical response services are among the City's highest priorities. The City provides high quality police and fire protection services to residents and visitors and has set response standards to effectively and rapidly respond to emergencies. Ensuring law enforcement, fire protection/emergency medical services, and lifeguard services are being adequately provided by addressing core issues related to service provision, including law enforcement within the community, resource pooling with neighboring jurisdictions, and anticipation of community needs due to growth and development is one of the City's highest priorities. Policies 5.1 Crime deterrence. Regularly evaluate the incidence of crime and identify and implement measures to deter crime. 5.2 High level of response. Achieve optimal utilization of allocated public safety resources and provide desired levels of response, staffing, and protection within the community. 5.3 Use of technology. Provide and use smart surveillance technology and communication systems to improve crime prevention and inform the community regarding actions to take in case of emergency. 1111 5.4 Physical design standards. Reduce opportunities for criminal activity through physical design standards and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles. • 5.5 Crime prevention outreach programs. Offer youth programs, recreation opportunities, educational programs, and other services to encourage crime prevention behavior. 5.6 Adequate emergency access. Require new development to be designed to provide adequate emergency access and to maintain current levels of emergency services. 5.7 Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions. Cooperate and collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and social services to maximize public safety and emergency services. 5.8 Nuisance abatement. Encourage Police Department review of uses which may be characterized historically by high levels of nuisance (noise, nighttime patronage, and/or rates of criminal activity) providing for conditions of control of use to prevent adverse impacts on adjacent residences, schools, religious facilities, and similar "sensitive" uses. 5.9 Police and Fire enforcement grants. Pursue grant funding and other outreach programs to minimize and abate nuisances. PLAN HERMOSA I 215 Goal 6. Hermosa Beach is prepared for, responds to and recovers quickly from natural disasters. Resiliency is the ability to overcome challenges of all kinds - trauma, tragedy, emergencies - and bounce back stronger, wiser, and more powerful. While natural disasters and hazardous events can cause damage and injury, by learning from those events, and using them to be better prepared for future events, Hermosa Beach can minimize the degree of damage and injury from future unavoidable events. Policies 6.1 Regularly update plans. Regularly update disaster preparedness and emergency response plans, in a manner that is compliant with state and federal standards. 6.2 Coastal incidents. Collaborate and maintain communication between the City, LA County Lifeguards, and the United States Coast Guard concerning incidents on or near the coast. 6.3 Invest in critical facilities. Dedicate funds to upgrade and maintain essential facilities (including EOC, Police/Fire Facilities, and City Hall) to make them more resilient to the potential impacts of natural disasters. 6.4 Post -disaster evaluation. The City's essential facilities shall be the top priority in conducting post -disaster building evaluations. 6.5 Optimize community benefits. Ensure that post -disaster recovery decisions optimize long-term community and economic benefits. 6.6 Assist businesses. Assist local / small businesses in planning for continuity of operations and emergency preparedness. 216 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • Goal 7. Noise compatibility is considered in the land use planning and design process. Consideration of the effects of noise early in the land use planning and design process can minimize or avoid detrimental impacts, and create a community where noise compatibility between differing types of land uses is ensured. Policies 7.1 Noise standards. Adopt, maintain, and enforce planning guidelines that establish the acceptable noise standards identified in Table 6.3. 7.2 Noise compatibility. Utilize the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix shown in Table 6.4 as a guide for future planning and development decisions. 7.3 Noise analysis and mitigation. Require all proposed development projects and modifications to existing developments to be compatible with the existing and future noise levels by using the Land Use/Noise Compatibility matrix shown in Table 6.4, or equivalent city policy or code. Where proposed projects are not located in an area that is "clearly compatible", the City will require that an acoustical study be prepared as a condition of building permit approval demonstrating compliance with the noise standards shown in Table 6.3. 7.4 Condominium conversions. Require conversion projects from existing apartments into condominiums submit an acoustical analysis demonstrating compliance with the State of California Noise Insulation Standards. 7.5 Noise ordinance. Establish a quantitative noise ordinance based on or equivalent to Chapter 12.08 of the Los Angeles County Code that at a minimum, addresses: traffic; bar and restaurant; event and party; construction and light industrial noise sources. 7.6 Vibration control. Groundborne vibration levels induced by construction and demolition activities and other ongoing land use activities can be controlled to minimize damage and annoyance within the community. PLAN HERMOSA I 21 7 Goal 8. Transportation noise sources are minimized. Transportation -related activities are primary sources of noise affecting the quality of life in Hermosa Beach. Effective reduction of noise associated with transportation is necessary to ensure protection from the detrimental effects of excessive noise. Policies 8.1 Transportation facility compatibility. Periodically review County, regional, and local plans for transportation facilities and new developments to minimize or avoid land use/noise conflicts prior to project approval. 8.2 Alternative modes of transportation. Reduce noise impacts by encouraging the use of walking, biking, carpooling, use of public transit, and expanding alternative modes of transportation. 8.3 Traffic calming. Where roadway noise levels exceed the "normally compatible" range shown in the Land Use/Noise Compatibility Matrix, consider the implementation of traffic calming measures such as reduced speed limits or roadway design features to reduce noise levels through reduced vehicle speeds and/or diversion of vehicular traffic. 8.4 Enforcement. Increase the enforcement of the posted speed limits and the noise standards included in the State's Motor Vehicle Code to reduce noise impacts from vehicles, particularly in residential areas. 8.5 Public transit. Work with transit agencies to establish bus routes that meet public transportation needs and minimize noise impacts in residential areas. 218 I CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC SAFETY • • • A safe, healthy, and well maintained public infrastructure system is essential to the functioning of any community. The means by which water, energy, waste, and people are transported from one place to another must function well to ensure a high quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors to Hermosa Beach. These systems must also be resilient to changing environmental and economic conditions. Much of the • City's infrastructure design and operation affects both the natural environment and • local economy. The availability of low cost renewable energy is a prime example of • infrastructure solutions that benefit everyone in the community, reinvest money in the • local economy, while reducing impacts to the environment. Upgrades to these infrastructure systems are costly and often happen on an as - needed repair basis rather than as comprehensive system upgrades. Hermosa Beach is committed to providing high quality and reliable infrastructure in a fiscally sustainable manner. PLAN HERMOSA I219 State Law The State of California does not require that a city's general plan include a separate Infrastructure Element, but does require the topic of infrastructure to be addressed. Since the City of Hermosa Beach views infrastructure as a critical topic, it is included as an optional element and includes specific components related to infrastructure to comply with the California Coastal Act. General Plan As it relates to infrastructure and utility networks, California Planning law requires the City's General Plan to: • Include the general location and extent of existing and proposed utilities and facilities. Correlate to the Land Use Element of the plan. Address urban water management and stormwater, recycled water use, and the integration of water and land use planning. Coastal Land Use Plan The California Coastal Act additionally identifies specific components related to infrastructure and water quality to be incorporated into the Coastal Land Use Plan to: Identify current and projected infrastructure capacity based on only those service improvements that are consistent with Coastal Act and LCP policies. Identify land use designations and intensities commensurate with the level of available infrastructure (e.g., sewer, water, and road or transit systems, with Highway 1 limited to two lanes in rural areas). Identify grading regulations to minimize alterations of natural landforms. 220 I CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE Context In Hermosa Beach, much of the infrastructure was initially built early in the 20th century, and has not kept up with modern standards. The sewer system, storm drain system, and numerous public buildings are in need of replacement or upgrades that exceed $100 million in estimated cost, and the City has started to systematically address each of these needs. This section describes the infrastructure systems and capacity, as well as the standards of care for maintenance and repair of this infrastructure to ensure they continue to operate in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Roads :Woo The Public Works Department maintains public roads and sidewalks in Hermosa Beach, with the exception of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Artesia Boulevard, which are owned and operated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Annual maintenance budgets ($1,000,000 in 2014) were adequate to improve the backlog of maintenance work, including preventive improvements that reduce future maintenance costs. For additional information on the roadway system, please refer to Streetscapes and Living Streets. Poor roadway conditions such as potholes, uneven pavement, or root damage can be hazardous to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. They also degrade the city's visual quality. As Hermosa Beach moves toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions, additional infrastructure will be needed for active and public transportation to provide the most convenient and positive experience for people moving throughout Hermosa Beach. • • Sewer System The sanitary sewer system network in Hermosa Beach comprises Wim' approximately 37 miles of sewer lines. Much of the sewer system is believed to have been installed in the late 1920s using concrete and clay pipe replacements. The system is primarily a gravity flow system, with the exception of one pump station. The effluent collected by sewer lines is discharged into the Los Angeles County Sanitation District trunk lines. The effluent collected by the sewer eventually flows to the Los Angeles County Sanitation District's Joint Water Pollution Control Plant, one of the largest wastewater treatment plants in the world. The facility serves a population of approximately 3.5 million people throughout Los Angeles County and provides both primary and secondary wastewater treatment. Treated discharge from the plant is transported to the Pacific Ocean through a network of outfalls, which extend 1.5 miles off the Palos Verdes Peninsula to a depth of 200 feet. The City approved a sewer fee in June 2015 allowing City Council to impose a fee on properties within the city. Funds must go towards sewer construction, repair, operations, and maintenance. Storm Drainage Urban runoff (stormwater) flows from inland locations through Hermosa Beach to the Pacific Ocean through a network of drainage lines identified in Figure 7.1. The network is a mixture of County -owned and City -owned lines, with joint responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the lines. The lines generally run east to west along major roads, including 16th Street, Pier Avenue, and 2nd Street and terminate at one of 11 outfalls located on the beach or in the Pacific Ocean. In Hermosa Beach, paved surfaces prevent the absorption of rainfall into the ground, as would occur in a natural system. Instead, stormwater is ushered into storm drains, a system of pipes that carry rainfall directly to the ocean. Under a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit, the City is responsible for the development, implementation, and enforcement of stormwater runoff and drainage requirements to protect water quality. Stormwater that runs over streets and sidewalks can pick up debris and pollutants, which are carried, untreated, into the ocean. To help reduce the amount of pollution from contaminated stormwater, the City has adopted a Low Impact Development (LID) ordinance and a Green Streets Policy. LID uses landscape design to retain or filter stormwater runoff, using development techniques such as rain gardens, permeable pavers, and bioswales. As the Green Streets Policy is implemented, low impact development will add to the existing fabric of stormwater infrastructure. Stormwater management facilities provided in private developments, such as retention basins, swales, or vegetation planted for stormwater filtering and containment operate independently of the storm drain system. These systems help to reduce drainage loads through the storm drain system and while encouraged, must be carefully sited and integrated into the design of a site to avoid breaking up the urban form and function. Figure 7.1 Storm Drain Lines Legend Storm Drain Unes Cepoorned ca.rovw.•a EJry PLAN HERMOSA 1 221 Water Service + Hydrology Hermosa Beach is located in the West Coast sub basin of the Coastal Plain of the Los Angeles watershed, one of 19 major watersheds in the South Coast Hydrologic Region. The South Coast Hydrologic Region covers 11,000 square miles (nearly seven percent) of the state's total land area and contains about 54% of the state's population. The West Coast sub basin is bounded on the north by the Ballona Escarpment, an abandoned channel from the Los Angeles River, on the east by the Newport -Inglewood fault zone, and on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean and consolidated rocks of the Palos Verdes Hills. All of the South Coast Hydrologic Region watersheds flow into the Pacific Ocean. Marine waters offshore from Hermosa Beach are a part of the Santa Monica Bay, which extends south from Point Dume, in Malibu, to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. No freshwater waterways or surface water bodies are located in Hermosa Beach. �•' States Environmental Protection Agency developed four total maximum daily load (TMDL) standards that apply to Hermosa Beach. These establish the amount of bacteria that is acceptable in Santa Monica Bay around Hermosa Beach's outfalls. 1. Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL (established 2002) 2. Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Wet Weather TMDL (established 2002) 3. Santa Monica Bay TMDL for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) (established 2012) 4. Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDL (established 2010) The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL notes that elevated bacterial indicator densities were causing impairment of water Water Quality The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board and the United Pier Avenue Beautification Project The City of Hermosa Beach used Federal stimulus funds, State grants and bond funds that could only be spent on improvements aimed towards streetscape and amenities to finance the $4.76 million Pier Avenue Beautification Project. As part of the project, the City installed an innovative infiltration/storm drain system that captures trash, stormwater and urban runoff from a 36- acre drainage area before it can pollute ocean waters. Once captured, the system treats the polluted water and infiltrates it for deep root irrigation and groundwater recharge along Pier Avenue. The system is unique because the storm drain component plays an auxiliary role in management of run-off and is only activated as the infiltration systems reach capacity. Upper Pier Avenue streetscape enhancements. "The City of Hermosa Beach is committed to protecting the environment, and the Pier Avenue Beautification Project is a shining example of how a city can create a cleaner and greener community for us all." Hermosa Beach Mayor Peter Tucker 222 1 CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE • contact recreation beneficial uses at many Santa Monica Bay beaches. Dry weather bacteriological objectives identified in the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Basin Plan include limits for total coliform density, fecal coliform density, and enterococcus density. The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry Weather TMDL sets the number of days that can be in exceedance of the limits identified in the Basin Plan. The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board has also established TMDL for the number of days exceeding bacteria count limits established in the Basin Plan during wet weather. As a co -permittee to the Los Angeles MS4 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit, Hermosa Beach is responsible for meeting water quality -based effluent limitations that allow Santa Monica Bay to meet TMDL targets identified in the Santa Monica Bay TMDL for DDTs and PCBs and Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDL. Electricity Electricity is provided to Hermosa Beach by Southern California Edison (SCE) via a network of overhead and underground distribution lines. For additional information regarding electricity generation, renewable energy, and energy conservation, please refer to Green Building and Conservation and Energy. Natural Gas Natural gas is provided through Southern California Gas (SoCalGas), a subsidiary of Sempra Energy, via a network of underground distribution lines. Natural gas is predominantly used for heating and stove use in residences. For additional information regarding energy conservation, please refer to Green Building and Conservation and Energy. Telecommunications Telecommunications services in Hermosa Beach include cable television, high speed Internet, and wireless and ground -line telephone services. A variety of private companies provide these services and have infrastructure located throughout the city to provide consistent and reliable telecommunication services to the community. In August 2015, Hermosa Beach had a total of 13 Internet providers including 1 cable provider, 2 Copper providers, 3 DSL providers, 1 fiber provider, 1 fixed wireless provider, 5 mobile providers. Fiber -Optic Infrastructure Fiber-optic infrastructure is provided through submarine cables that provide international connectivity. The City of Hermosa Beach is the North American landing site of multiple transpacific submarine cables. In 2015, existing sites included APX-East, which connects to Sydney Australia, and SEA -US, which connects to Davao, Philippines, Manado, Indonesia, Piti, Guam, and Oahu Hawaii. PLAN HERMOSA I 223 Goals and Policies � The City recognizes and supports the need to maintain a high level of service to the community. It further recognizes the need to pursue and embed various technologies into developing and maintaining the City's infrastructure to increase the efficiency and cost of operating. The City is committed to providing high quality infrastructure and maintaining infrastructure in a way that reduces ongoing costs to the City. Goal 1. Infrastructure systems are functional, safe, and well maintained. Though often unnoticed and in the background, public infrastructure and services - utilities, water and wastewater services, stormwater treatment, and transportation infrastructure - are essential to the high quality of life afforded in Hermosa Beach. They require regular maintenance and upgrading both to meet the demands of a growing population and to improve their environmental performance. Policies 1.1 Infrastructure systems plan. Establish and adopt an integrated, holistic systems approach to guide infrastructure development, improvement, maintenance, and resilience. 1.2 Priority investments. Use City Council established priorities and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to identify and allocate funding for projects identified in the infrastructure plan. 1.3 Right-of-way coordination. Ensure infrastructure maintenance and repair projects within the public right-of-way are coordinated with utilities and agencies to minimize additional roadway repaving or accelerated deterioration. 1.4 Fair share assessments. Require new development and redevelopment projects to pay their fair share of the cost of infrastructure improvements needed to serve the project, and ensure that needed infrastructure is available prior to or at the time of project completion. 1.5 New technologies. When feasible, utilize emerging technologies and funding strategies that improve infrastructure efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency. 1.6 Utility Infrastructure Siting. Ensure new infrastructure is sited in a manner to minimize negative impacts to the community and prioritize projects to address the greatest deficiencies. 1.7 Aesthetic and urban form. Require infrastructure and infrastructure improvements that are aesthetically pleasing and consistent with the scenic character of the surrounding area. 1.8 Minimize recurring repairs. Ensure that recurring repairs to City facilities are minimized by investing in low maintenance materials and performing preventive procedures where available. 1.9 Preventative street maintenance projects. Include street slurry projects and other preventive projects in the CIP each year, with sufficient funding. 1.10 Permeable pavement. Where feasible, use permeable pavement for low travel streets and minimize the use of concrete on streets and medians. 224 I CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE Goal 2. Roadway infrastructure maintenance supports convenient, attractive, and complete streets and associated amenities. Development of a safe and efficient multi -modal transportation network requires a commitment and investment in the street infrastructure of both roadways and sidewalks. Encouraging multimodal and attractive streets can provide for the needs of diverse members of the community, balance the different modes of transportation, promote physical activity, and support environmental sustainability. Policies 2.1 Preventive street maintenance. Maintain streets, sidewalks and other public rights-of-way to provide a reliable network for circulation through a proactive preventive maintenance program. 2.2 Pavement rating system. Prioritize roadway re -pavement projects by regularly evaluating pavement ratings and identifying roadway segments with the greatest deficiencies. 2.3 Street and sidewalk standards. Require the use of standardized roadway, sidewalk, parkway, curb and gutter designs to ensure continuity and consistency as property redevelops over time. 2.4 Sidewalk improvements. Consider innovative funding strategies, such as cost-sharing, ADA accessibility grants, or sidewalk dedications, to improve the overall condition, safety, and accessibility of sidewalks. 2.5 Active transportation dedications. Require new development and redevelopment projects to provide land or infrastructure necessary to accommodate active transportation, such as widened sidewalks, bike racks, and bus stops, in compliance with ADA accessibility standards. 2.6 Traffic signal coordination. Maintain and operate the traffic signal system with advanced technologies to manage traffic operations and maintain traffic signal infrastructure. 2.7 Restore to City standards. Require utility, other service providers, and private construction projects working in the public right-of-way to restore or improve trench areas to return the site to conditions that comply with City standards and prevent roadway and sidewalk deterioration. 2.8 Timely repairs and maintenance. Ensure that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner when reported. PLAN HERMOSA 225 Goal 3. Adequate water supplies from giTiw diverse sources provide for the needs of current and future residents, businesses, and visitors. Water is fundamental to life and crucial to the health and well-being of Hermosa Beach residents, businesses, visitors, and marine and terrestrial biological communities. Hermosa Beach is located in a naturally dry region and contains no surface water bodies. However, the city's susceptibility to drought, climate change, and other conditions has created opportunities to reduce demand, respond to drought, and diversify the water supply to ensure the entire community, and region, has access to adequate water supplies. Policies 3.1 Demand monitoring. Continue to evaluate and monitor the adequacy of available water supply and distribution systems relative to proposed development and redevelopment projects. 3.2 Alternative water supplies. Pursue expansion of recycled water infrastructure and other alternative water supplies to meet water demands of the community that cannot be offset through conservation measures. 3.3 Recycled water infrastructure. Encourage the use and integration of dual plumbing system hookups to accommodate recycled water into new development. 3.4 Climate change impacts. Consider the impacts of climate change in projections used to establish which water supply and distribution facilities as well as conservation efforts are necessary to sustain future water demands. 3.5 Drought management. Ensure measures to respond to drought conditions are enforced through the City's 'Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan Ordinance.' 3.6 Water infrastructure. Support the development of water storage, recycling, greywater treatment, and necessary transmission facilities to meet necessary water demand. 226 I CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE • Goal 4. The sewer system infrastructure is modernized and resilient. By modernizing the sewer system to better meets community needs, the City can reduce longer term infrastructure costs through efficiently managing, operating, and maintaining the system. In addition, the modernized sewer system will be less susceptible to additional stress from future floods and changing groundwater levels with anticipated sea level rise, which is beneficial to both the health and welfare of the residents and business community by minimizing overflows and improving beach water quality. Policies 4.1 Sewer system master plan. Ensure that the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan contains an effective and proactive maintenance program that reduces future operation costs. 4.2 Priority improvements. Give priority to sewer system sections recommended for near-term replacement or rehabilitation in the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, and pursue repairs aggressively. 4.3 Service fees. Ensure that allocation of the Sewer Service Charge is efficient and transparent to the public. 4.4 System capacity reviews. Require new development and redevelopment projects to demonstrate available sewer system capacity and resiliency. 4.5 Sewer system rehabilitation. Implement the rehabilitation projects recommended in the Sanitary Sewer MasterPlan. 4.6 Sewer system resilience. Anticipate sea level rise impacts when planning, upgrading, and operating the sewer collection and treatment systems. 4.7 Sewer system operation. Continue to implement maintenance and operation measures established in the Sewer System Management Plan. 4.8 Holistic systems planning. Develop a comprehensive approach to water infrastructure that integrates sewer system planning with potable and recycled water systems, stormwater systems, and increased conservation awareness. PLAN HERMOSA I 227 Goal 5. The stormwater management system is safe, sanitary, and environmentally and fiscally sustainable. To reduce dangers from flooding and protect community safety and property, the City of Hermosa Beach is committed to providing well maintained stormwater infrastructure and reducing the negative environmental impacts of storm run off into the Santa Monica Bay. Policies 5.1 Integration of stormwater best practices. Integrate stormwater infiltration best practices when initiating streetscape redevelopment or public facility improvement projects. 5.2 Green infrastructure. Naturalize flood channels that enhance flood protection capacity before employing other management solutions. 5.3 Natural features. Integrate natural features, such as topography, drainage, and trees, into the design of streets and rights-of-way to capture stormwater and prevent runoff. 5.4 Conservation behavior. Encourage community behavior changes to reduce urban runoff pollution by incentivizing the capture of rainwater to prevent runoff and meet on-site water demand. 5.5 Stormwater system maintenance. Maintain, fund, and regularly monitor the City's stormwater infrastructure. 5.6 Stormwater system repairs. Ensure that stormwater system repairs are included in maintenance plans for other City infrastructure and that repairs and maintenance are completed in a timely manner to prevent additional repair costs. 5.7 Stormwater permits. Strictly implement, enforce, and monitor MS4 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) Permit requirements through stormwater ordinances. 5.8 Low impact development. Require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate low impact development (LID) techniques in project designs, including but not limited to on-site drainage improvements using native vegetation to capture and clean stormwater runoff and minimize impervious surfaces. 5.9 Evaluate and retrofit. Evaluate existing systems and retrofit to meet current standards and infiltration best practices. 228 I CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE • . Goal 6. Utility services are reliable, affordable, and • renewable. Citywide access to clean, dependable, and affordable energy positions the community for a sustainable energy future. By encouraging local production of renewable energy, the community can simultaneously benefit from the economic and environmental paybacks of renewable energy, and potentially attract new innovations and technology by committing to a renewable energy future. Policies 6.1 Utility maintenance permitting. Allow efficient and streamlined permitting for the maintenance, repair, improvement, and expansion of utility facilities and infrastructure. 6.2 Below ground utilities. Encourage the phase out and replace overhead electric lines with subsurface lines to reduce visual obstructions and the need for utility poles which can impede sidewalk accessibility. 6.3 Environmental compatibility. Ensure that utility facilities and infrastructure cause minimal damage to the environment and that utility service providers are responsible for costs associated with damage caused to the environment and public right-of-way so that providers will seek to minimize those costs. 6.4 Innovative and renewable technology. Encourage the exploration and establishment of innovative and renewable utility service technologies. Allow the testing of new alternative energy sources that are consistent with the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa and comply with all relevant regulations. 6.5 Renewable energy facilities. Unless a renewable energy facility would cause an unmitigatable impact to health or safety, allow them by right. 6.6 Renewable energy procurement. Collaborate with nearby local and regional agencies to provide greater renewable energy choices to the community. 6.7 Electric transmission and distribution system reliability. Improve reliability of the electric transmission and distribution system through advocacy and collaboration with nearby cities. PLAN HERMOSA 1 229 Goal 7. A reliable and efficient telecommunications network available to every resident, business, and institution. Telecommunication systems support advanced and innovative communication methods between residents, businesses, visitors, and the City. Telecommunications infrastructure and services are critical to businesses for economic growth and job creation. Residents rely on telecommunications for quality of life, education, research, and access to health care and government services. Policies 7.1 Accommodate future technologies. Encourage telecommunications providers and building developments to size infrastructure and facilities to accommodate future expansion and changes in the need for technology. 7.2 Appropriate siting of telecommunications infrastructure. Design and site all facilities to minimize their visibility, prevent visual clutter, and reduce conflicts with surrounding land uses while recognizing that the entire community can have access to communication infrastructure. 7.3 Co -location of facilities. Encourage telecommunications facilities located adjacent to, on, or incorporated into existing or proposed buildings, towers, or other structures. 7.4 Emergency services technology. Prioritize telecommunications services used for the safety and well being of the community. 7.5 Access for all. Encourage the installation and availability of facilities that provide free telecommunication access at key activity and business centers throughout the community. 230 I CHAPTER 7: INFRASTRUCTURE 0 4 For some topics in this Plan, the new adopted policies are sufficient to realize certain goals. However, most goals will require additional implementation actions to help achieve our vision. This section ties together the goals and policies in the General Plan and Coastal Plan with such actions. Some of these are onetime actions, such as creating an ordinance or updating a master plan, while other actions will need to re -occur or be periodically evaluated. Actions have been organized and grouped based on a series of priority tasks and whether they are considered a physical improvement, program, or new process. PLAN HERMOSA I 231 Community Collaboration Hermosa Beach is a small city, with big ideas and a clear vision of its future. The City staff and elected officials welcome and encourage community organizations, the business community, other public agencies, neighborhood groups and passionate individuals to help implement many of these actions. While some actions will be prioritized by the City, that should not preclude any partner organization or individual from making other actions a top priority in their own work in collaboration with the City. Priority Implementation Tasks The implementation section attempts to group the myriad of actions needed to achieve the vision into a set of priority tasks to be programmed and completed as resources become available. While directly associated with PLAN Hermosa, it is important that the implementation matrix be adopted separate from the rest of this Plan so that it may be updated and kept current as council set priorities on an annual basis and conditions change over time. The implementation work program includes the following discrete tasks: Local Implementation Plan (Coastal) To implement the Coastal Land Use Plan components of PLAN Hermosa, the City must develop a series of implementing ordinances, including changes to the Municipal Code, that articulate the intent of the California Coastal Act with consideration of local context and needs. The actions in this category will comprise the Implementation Plan to support certification of the Local Coastal Program. Zoning Code Update The Zoning Code regulates land use, form, and design, and is the primary mechanism for implementing the land use strategies of PLAN Hermosa. The actions identified in the zoning code update category should be incorporated into the next update of the zoning code, to bring the development standards of the City of Hermosa Beach into alignment with PLAN Hermosa. 232 I IMPLEMENTATION Municipal Code Amendments Similar to the Zoning Code, the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code is a body of rules and regulations that govern everything from signs to sidewalks. The actions in this category comprise the new rules and regulatory updates necessary to implement various goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa. Environmental Thresholds + Guidelines The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) plays a critical role in shaping the built environment of Hermosa Beach and disclosing the environmental effects of projects. Every discretionary action undertaken by the City must be evaluated under CEQA. The development of thresholds and guidelines for evaluating projects subject to CEQA will offer greater transparency and consistency in how each project is evaluated. Actions to be incorporated in the creation of local CEQA procedures are included in this section. • Additional Implementation • s Tasks Additional implementation actions have been categorized and included as a physical improvement, program, or process to be implemented on an ongoing basis in the future. Physical Improvements While much of this Plan is intended to direct private investment in a clear and deliberate way, the City plays a role in shaping the public realm through investment of resources in physical improvements on City -owned or operated land. Specific public investments that would result in physical changes to publicly owned spaces are listed below. Programs Programs are specific activities that are focused on the community or a subset of the community. These actions are meant to inform, enrich, or support the community. In many cases, these programs are support activities that are intended to complement more formal regulatory implementation actions. In other cases, these actions are intended to help achieve PLAN Hermosa outcomes through incentives. Processes Processes are those activities that the City undertakes as a municipal organization that pertain to organizational function. The items below are intended to improve the efficiency and/or effectiveness of the City's operations. Additionally, these items also relate to the coordination and consultation that the city undertakes as an official government agency. Implementation Organization Lead Department The lead department responsible for implementing the priority task. Other departments will be involved in the successful implementation of specific actions within each task. Timeframe Priority tasks will have an identified timeframe in which they should be implemented. Since many of these priority tasks influence subsequent actions, their implementation is critical within the first several years after adoption of PLAN Hermosa. Additional actions presented as a physical improvement, program, or process will be implemented on an ongoing basis. Primary Funding Source Potential funding sources that may be used in implementing each set of priority tasks will be identified. More specific funding resources may be identified for individual actions. List of Relevant Actions Within each priority task, there will be are a series of numbered actions. Each action is numbered to correspond to the following elements of PLAN Hermosa: • Governance • Land Use + Design • Mobility • Sustainability + Conservation • Parks + Open Space • Public Safety • Infrastructure PLAN HERMOSA 1 233 Parks and Recreation Master Plan (1990) The City's Parks and Recreation Master Plan fulfills the City's obligation to provide guidance for the orderly development of parks, recreation, and open space facilities and programs. The plan includes baseline data and provides clear recommendations on how to meet the demands for future recreational, programming, and maintenance needs. The last comprehensive plan was completed in1990, therefore needing an update to reflect the new demographic and open space changes. Sustainability Plan (2011) Created by Hermosa Beach's Green Task Force, the Sustainability Plan sets goals to reduce human impact on the environment. The Sustainability Plan includes topics on water, waste, transportation, buildings, energy, and marine/coastal issues, with goals to reduce man-made greenhouse gas emissions and protect the City's beach culture and coastal environment. Strategies to achieve these goals include providing transportation alternatives to reduce automobile travel, supporting beach and ocean -friendly initiatives to protect beach culture and local economy, reducing water consumption and improve water quality consistent with State goals, integrating energy efficiency and renewable energy measures into the built environment, and achieving higher rates of recycling and decrease the volume of landfilled waste. The Green Task Force worked closely with community members, building citywide support throughout the process. South Bay Cities Bicycle Master Plan (2011) The South Bay Bicycle Master Plan is intended to guide the development and maintenance of a comprehensive bicycle network and set of programs and policies throughout the cities of El Segundo, The South Bay Bicycle Master Plan 1 Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Lawndale, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Torrance for the next 20 years. As the first ever multi - jurisdictional bike plan, it has a unique focus on cross -city consistency and connectivity that is often lacking in singular city bike plans. Upon plan adoption, each participating city will be eligible for grant funding sources which they are not currently receiving. The Bicycle Master Plan is the result of a unique partnership between long-standing bicycle advocacy non-profit, Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC), and local LACBC chapter - the South Bay Bicycle Coalition (SBBC). The two groups came together with the common goal of improving the safety and convenience of bicycling in Los Angeles County, and specifically in the South Bay Region. Goals in this plan include creating a bicycle -friendly South Bay and safer bicycling environment and ensuring an enduring bicycling culture. Strategies to achieve these goals include designing an expanded bikeway network, supporting consistent design and engineering for bicycles, increasing mobility through bicycle -transit integration, providing convenient and consistent parking facilities, increasing bicycle education, maintaining roads for safe and consistent bikeability, and expanding enforcement for improved cycling safety. 234 I REFERENCED PLANS Living Streets Policy (2012) Hermosa Beach's Living Streets Policy reflects the City's commitment to creating streets that are safe, accessible, sustainable, and inviting. The policy was crafted in conjunction with the Blue Zones Project and was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission in December, 2012. The policy provides a checklist of issues to consider and procedures to evaluate street projects through a comprehensive 'sustainability' lens. It ensures that the various segments of the community are considered when determining how to use and improve the public right-of-way. The policy includes policies on street network/connectivity, design, jurisdiction, exceptions, and context sensitivity. Aviation Boulevard Master Plan (2012) The Aviation Boulevard Master Plan was created to transform Aviation Boulevard into a thriving corridor that will act as a gateway when entering the city of Hermosa Beach. The inconsistent zoning along Aviation Boulevard has contributed to the area's lack of activity. The plan will create a new identity for the area and includes individual toolkits to address the parking, traffic, pedestrian, maintenance, and land use and zoning issues in the area. Some solutions include planted medians, decreasing widths of traffic lanes, new sidewalk and landscape amenities, establishing a business improvement district and other incentives for new investment, new zoning or design guidelines, and implementing a street tree and beautification Pacific Coast Highway Aviation Boulevard Streetscape Improvements (2013) Adopted in 2013, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Streetscape Master Plan is the City's strategy to improve economic development through revitalized Downtown and Entry Corridors along the Pacific Coast Highway. This corridor is vehicular -oriented, and lacks pedestrian safety, green open space, medians, street trees, and an overall sense of identity. To alleviate these challenges, Katherine Spitz Associates developed concept plans that include innovative design elements. In addition, design goals were created to revitalize the corridors. These include increasing pedestrian safety and accessibility, creating physical and visual connection across PCH, beautifying the street with sustainable, cohesive landscaping, creating a memorable identity for the area, designing walkable streets with access to retail, dining and entertainment, and encouraging pedestrian use through new lighting and crosswalks. .,.,,,..,..._ 2.12111:14 lel. Yves nw `.,... w........r emoommo -. Y Cy * y.....w... .sr.. .+•........... w. .+...... ....• n.. w..... Fe4,........_.,v.memo moo.....•.,,••••.,..,. ............• ,.... • • lw r•w. r. A • -..•• n.. r r .,__ ..... • ma r•..w - w ..r w ....on r.r... V. fw•.I...into w 1••••••••••/••••H• .w•...+a......w Wear ammo, min. vosel” ogra vra• 4601 NMI ed. I. w��.s , o • `rte ........ -.....-w.. • 41••••• ••••••• w w.n •.b__ • r r..• r city identi_placernakina streetsca . � PLAN HERMOSA I 235 ltrahhrays j Mar Y..nrs VIWirn Cu:} Cracd Clrun Ih-aKtlr. Pow Beach Cities Livability Plan (2013) The Beach Cities Livability Plan was developed to improve livability and well being in Los Angeles County beach cities. The plan strives to support active living by enhancing both land use and transportation systems throughout the cities. In order to achieve this goal, the plan highlights ways that will encourage community members to become more active in their communities. This includes a complete network of streets and public spaces to support active living, safe, natural and enjoyable walking and biking conditions, and sustainable transportation choices. Strategies to achieve this goal of healthier, happier people in the city includes adopting a Complete Streets policies and incorporate Complete Streets policy language into all beach cities planning documents, creating and adopting street design guidelines, developing a regional pedestrian master plan, increasing enforcement for pedestrian safety, and increasing enforcement for pedestrian safety. Community Dialogue (2014) The City of Hermosa Beach recognizes the importance to include the community throughout the planning process. Community members and government officials worked together during 2013 and 2014 to provide the following comments and visions for the city. Hermosa Beach is a small-town friendly beach community. Hermosa is a health conscious city where people walk, jog, and bike to get from place to place, but also has a reputation for being a party town. The City government is accessible, with council meetings that are televised and open to the public, as well as City council members office hours for questions or suggestions. The crime rate in Hermosa is very low and the schools are in the top 10 percentile of State rankings. The community participates in major fundraisers to offset state shortfalls in the education system. The City is a green city that is striving for a low -carbon footprint. Some steps to achieve this goal include storm drain filtration systems, smoke-free zones, banned styrofoam food containers, and the use of solar panels alternative energy source. Hermosa wants to attempt to have colleges/universities invest in technology projects in the area, seek out movie/TV filming projects, encourage volunteerism for projects, and attract small businesses in order to maintain its unique character without any added costs. Hermosa Beach, with the help of its citizens, would like to continue its environmental friendly operation and promote an economically strong small business image over the next 20 years in order to live up to its slogan "the best little beach city." LA Metro First Last Mile Strategic Plan (2015) The goal of the LA Metro First Last Mile Strategic Plan is to better coordinate infrastructure investments in station areas to extend the reach of transit, with the ultimate goal of increasing ridership. The plan includes guidelines that begin outlining specific infrastructure improvement strategies to facilitate easy, safe, and efficient access to the Metro system. In addition, they introduce a concept referred to as 'the Path', and provide direction on the layout of Path networks and components within Metro Rail and fixed route Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) station areas. They serve as a resource for Metro and the many public and private organizations throughout the region working to update programs, land use plans, planning guidelines, business models, entitlement processes, and other tools that take advantage of LA County's significant investment in the public transportation network. Strategies will need to be organized to contend with widely varying environments throughout the county; yet will aim to improve the user experience by supporting intuitive, safe and recognizable routes to and from transit stations. 236 1 REFERENCED PLANS • Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy (2015) • • The Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy for Hermosa Beach is a comprehensive approach for increasing the vitality of the downtown including assessing the role of the key private sites and utilizing City assets to achieve City goals. The Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy and the Market and Economic Analysis were developed by Roma Design Group and Economic Planning Systems respectively, and reviewed by Council thereafter. This Strategy is to utilize strategically located land resources to strengthen the economic vitality of the area and enhance the quality of life in the community as a whole. The Downtown Core will require both public and private initiatives including capital improvement projects, changes to parking and zoning, and parking requirements involving private development. Potential outcomes of the proposed Strategy are two catalyst hotel developments and improvements along Hermosa Avenue. Also, revising zoning will promote ground floor retail, reducing the parking requirements and providing consolidated publicly managed facilities at the civic center or community center. This will facilitate the much needed daytime occupancies and foot traffic by spurring additional second floor office and service uses. I1L OSAa€ACH Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy n.o...,a+.Cn, .,.p.WO. byIt w,te G.,, f.o..w.n...rss... 1.4.1.10.11 201.1, Hermosa Beach Carbon Neutral Scoping Plan (2015) Hermosa Beach's commitment to reducing emissions is shown in the City's Carbon Neutral Scoping Plan. At the time it was created, this plan set carbon neutrality as a primary goal for the City and included a pathway of achieving this goal. In addition to observing demographics, culture, and political background of Hermosa Beach, the plan includes a comprehensive model to determine emission levels in respective sectors based on different implementation measures. This model creates three potential outcomes to lead the city towards its goal. While the shift will not occur immediately, this plan includes recommendations and suggestions to help the City streamline the process. Hermosa Beach Carbon Neutral Scoping Plan Ececva a Summer/ R, t,.....,..,....... _ ..ouroto Cc„ a......r, * a. F...1p044, PLAN HERMOSA 1 237 City el Keene'. k.,► Emergency Operations Plan ,..ter::, BEACH CITIES WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLANNING OUTREACH' MEETING 238 I REFERENCED PLANS Emergency Operations Plan (2016) • The City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan establishes a comprehensive, all hazards approach to natural, man-made, and technological disasters. The plan provides an overview of operational concepts, identifies components of the City's emergency management organization, and describes the overall responsibilities of federal, state, county, and local entities to protect life and property and ensure the overall well being of the population. The plan establishes a system for coordinating the prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation phases of emergency management in Hermosa Beach. One function of the City of Hermosa Beach Emergency Operations Plan is to identify emergency evacuation protocols. The City also has a tsunami evacuation plan and has posted permanent tsunami evacuation signage at appropriate locations in the city. The City's evacuation plan for all other hazards stresses operational flexibility. The City does not have a publicly accessible all -hazards evacuation plan, nor does it post permanent evacuation route signs for any hazard other than tsunami. Beach Cities Enhanced Watershed Management Program (2016) A Beach Cities Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP) has been prepared for the Beach Cities Watershed Management Area, which covers the Santa Monica Bay and Dominguez Channel watersheds. The City of Hermosa Beach, along with the Cities of Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Torrance and the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, formed the Watershed Management Group and developed the plan. The plan summarizes watershed -specific water quality priorities; outlines a program plan consisting of specific strategies, control measures, and best management practices (BMPs) necessary to achieve water quality targets; and describes the quantitative analyses completed to support target achievement and permit compliance. The EWMP also includes guidance for best management practices, specifically the development of policies related to low impact development and local green streets. Two structural BMPs have already been planned in Hermosa Beach, which will be used to meet the total Santa Monica Bay reduction goals for pollutant reductions. These projects include Hermosa Beach Greenbelt Infiltration and the Hermosa Beach Infiltration Trench. • • Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (2017) The City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) fulfills Hermosa Beach's obligation to prepare plans that identify community hazards and risks and create appropriate mitigation actions and projects pursuant to the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA). With a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) certified mitigation plan in place, the City is eligible for federal and state hazard mitigation funds. Additional funds are available for jurisdictions whose hazard mitigation plans and general plan safety elements are integrated. Hazard mitigation plans must be updated every five years to remain eligible for funding. The LHMP fulfills requirements of Section 322 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 United States Code (USC) 5165, as amended by the DMA. The LHMP is incorporated into the City's General Plan Public Safety Element by reference and should be consulted when addressing known hazards to ensure the public's general health, safety, and welfare within the planning area. The City's Public Safety Element goals, policies, and actions support and are consistent with the LHMP. • Hazard'l1+1i#wgaton PLAN HERMOSA I 239 '1.1510VAL43.),' Art\ t:)". • • PLAN Hermosa - Implementation Actions Revised August 2017 Governance GOVERNANCE -1. Periodically review and consider whether new commissions, working groups, or task forces are needed to accomplish City goals. GOVERNANCE -2. Develop and regularly refine the City's policy and best practices for community engagement, communications, and use of technology to engage a diverse and broad spectrum of the community it the decision-making process. GOVERNANCE -3. Identify and implement opportunities to utilize technology and digital resources to improve delivery of services to the community. GOVERNANCE -4. Continue to participate and partner with neighboring cities and regional organizations to implement projects and achieve goals that enhance the livability of Hermosa Beach. GOVERNANCE -5. Incorporate guidance related to Native American consultation and treatment of prehistoric and Native American resources into local CEQA guidelines for Hermosa Beach. GOVERNANCE -6. Establish and maintain business support resources to assist in the attraction and retention of local businesses that serve the needs of the community. GOVERNANCE -7. Partner with the Beach Cities Health District and local health institutions to develop and implement a Health in All Policies framework and implementation checklist. GOVERNANCE -8. Prepare General Plan annual progress reports, including an assessment of community indicators and status of implementation programs to the Planning Commission and City Council. Land Use + Design LAND USE -1. Amend the Zoning Map to bring consistency between PLAN Hermosa Land Use Designations and Zoning Ordinance Zoning Districts and review development standards for non- conforming uses. LAND USE -2. Establish development standards within the Zoning Code to establish any new land use designations and modify existing development standards to articulate the appropriate building form, scale, and massing for each established character area and the applicable density/intensity standards. LAND USE -3. Include provisions within the Zoning Code to avoid significant shadow impacts from new structures onto public recreational areas, parks or other public gathering places consistent with industry standards for evaluating shade and shadow impacts. LAND USE -4. Integrate the intensity standards/ Floor Area Ratios established for non-residential land uses into the Zoning Code. 1 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 LAND USE -5. Develop an inventory of underutilized or surplus property that may be appropriate for City or School District use or purchase to serve community education and recreational needs in the future. LAND USE -6. Establish within the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan a method to define and classify existing facilities and proposed projects providing overnight accommodations in the Coastal Zone as low, mid-range, or high cost, and apply this method to the Coastal Development Permit review process. The method should compare hotel room rates to the California statewide and regional averages, and should be updated as the City's fee schedule is updated. LAND USE -7. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan and Zoning Map to better accommodate coastal -dependent and coastal -related uses, as follows: • Establish definitions for coastal -dependent and coastal -related uses consistent with the California Coastal Act. For each, identify a list of priority uses that meets the definition. • Contract the C-2 (Downtown Commercial) zone district to match the Recreational Commercial land use designation. • Modify the permitted use tables to allow specific coastal -dependent commercial uses in the C-1, C-2, and SPA 11 zone districts. • Modify the permitted use tables to allow coastal -dependent and coastal -related industrial uses in the M-1 zone district. LAND USE -8. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan to require any proposal for visitor -serving accommodations providing a majority of units at mid-range or high-cost levels to include public amenities such as plazas and spaces, restaurants, retail units, garden viewing areas, or other day -use features that may be used by the general public at no or relatively low cost. The quality and quantity of required amenities will be determined in the Coastal Development Permit review process. This requirement does not prohibit the proposed project from charging a user fee or resort fee for active amenities such as pool and spa access, recreation activities and equipment, or organized group activities on the property. LAND USE -9. Establish a visitor -serving accommodations fee program for new high-cost overnight accommodations. Fee revenues may provide funding to support specific projects that preserve (first priority) or establish (second priority) low- or mid -cost overnight visitor accommodations that improve access to the coast by providing visitors with an affordable place to stay overnight. Collaborating with the Coastal Commission, the City shall prepare and maintain a list of specific projects that fee revenues may be used to support. LAND USE -10. Require new visitor -serving accommodations within the Coastal Zone to maintain or improve public access to the coast by establishing and applying the following development review requirements in the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan: • Where a new hotel or motel development project would consist entirely of high-cost overnight accommodations, the development shall be required to provide mitigation as a condition of approval of a Coastal Development Permit. Such mitigation may include, 2 • • PLAN Hermosa but is not limited to, a mitigation payment consistent with the City's visitor -serving accommodations fee program. • If a hotel or motel project proposes a certain number or percentage of on-site low or mid-range cost units, such units shall remain available as low or mid-range cost units for the life of the project. LAND USE -11. Protect existing visitor -serving accommodations within the Coastal Zone by establishing and applying the following development review requirements in the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan: • Any development project that directly displaces existing low and mid-range cost accommodations in the Coastal Zone shall provide an equivalent number of rooms or accommodations at an equivalent nightly rate in the Coastal Zone, or elsewhere within the City of Hermosa Beach. • Replacement units must be subject to deed restrictions recorded against the title of the property so that they mitigate the displacement of lower- and mid-range cost accommodations for the life of the project. LAND USE -12. Create a checklist and resource guide comprising local, state, and federal requirements for the development of offshore renewable energy facilities to streamline permitting requirements and improve public awareness. LAND USE -13. Amend the CEQA documentation and initial study process to ensure cultural and historical resources are studied in accordance with CEQA and any local historic preservation programs. LAND USE -14. Amend Hermosa Beach Historic Preservation Ordinance to align with Historic Preservation goals and policies including but not limited to: • Clarify that the City Council may nominate City -owned properties and that only the property owner may nominate private property. • Establish a list of encouraged actions that a property owner may take when a property over 50 years in age is demolished, which could include photo documentation of key architectural features, salvage or donation of key architectural features or original materials, or installation of plaque, or other actions to reflect or recognize the former structure. LAND USE -15. Review and update eligibility criteria to use in the designation of local historic sites or historic districts. LAND USE -16. Develop emergency preparedness and disaster response plans for cultural resources, including a recovery action plan that addresses long-range decisions likely to be faced by the City following a major disaster, including economic recovery, protocols for demolition or restoration of damaged historic structures, and fee deferral for repair permits. LAND USE -17. Create a program to provide for the voluntary installation of plaques and/or public art related to historic buildings and sites in the city. Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 LAND USE -18. Research and develop innovative policies for preserving historic properties. LAND USE -19. Work with community organizations to develop brochures, guides, walking tours, and other marketing materials to highlight existing public art in Hermosa Beach. LAND USE -20. Develop historic preservation expertise among staff and decision makers on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, preservation ordinances, the State Historical Building Code, environmental review for historical resources, and tax credits and incentives. LAND USE -21. All discretionary projects that include ground disturbance or excavation activities on previously undisturbed land shall be required to conduct archaeological investigations in accordance with CEQA regulations to determine if the project is sensitive for cultural resources. Additionally, as the Lead Agency for future discretionary projects, the City is required under AB 52 to notify tribal organizations of proposed projects and offer to consult with those tribal organizations that indicate interest. Following any tribal consultation or archaeological investigation, the City shall weigh and consider available evidence to determine whether there is a potential risk for disturbing or damaging any cultural or tribal resources and whether any precautionary measures can be required to reduce or eliminate that risk. Those precautions may include requiring construction workers to complete training on archaeological and tribal resources before any ground disturbance activity and/or requiring a qualified archaeologist or tribal representative to monitor some or all of the ground disturbance activities. The City shall require the preservation of discovered archaeologically significant resources (as determined based on city, state, and federal standards by a qualified professional) in place if feasible or provide mitigation (avoidance, excavation, documentation, curation, data recovery, or other appropriate measures) prior to further disturbance. LAND USE -22. Modify zoning and development standards to ensure the production of art, artist studios, and ancillary sales at art galleries are defined, allowed, and encouraged in commercial and light industrial zones. LAND USE -23. Conduct and maintain an inventory of spaces suitable for both temporary and permanent public art installations. LAND USE -24. Identify the important cultural and historical elements that define, differentiate, and provide value to the Hermosa Beach community. Mobility MOBILITY -1. Conduct an inventory and assessment of the City's sidewalk network to identify gaps, assess ADA accessibility, and prioritize improvements within the Capital Improvement Program. MOBILITY -2. Evaluate City right-of-ways and establish or update width and design standards for the construction or maintenance of streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and parkways. MOBILITY -3. Add definitions to the Municipal Code for street classifications, pedestrian facilities, bicycle and multi -use facilities, and transportation amenities. 4 PLAN Hermosa • MOBILITY -4. Install new signage and instructions for accessing transit locations, local and regional bicycle routes, and parking meters/machines in the Coastal Zone where existing meters and machines have been shown to cause confusion for visitors. MOBILITY -5. Evaluate operations in local neighborhood streets with considerations to speed management strategies and traffic calming measures to increase safety for all people using the street. • • MOBILITY -6. Install traffic calming devices in areas appropriate to mitigate an identified and documented traffic concern, as determined by the City Public Works Director or designee. Potential traffic calming applications include clearly marked and/or protected bike and pedestrian zones, bike boulevards, bulb outs, median islands, speed humps, traffic circles, speed tables, raised crosswalks, signalized crosswalks, chicanes, chokers, raised intersections, realigned intersections, and textured pavements, among other effective enhancements. MOBILITY -7. Work with commercial property owners to conduct an assessment for utilization of private parking supplies to supplement private and public parking needs and evaluate the potential for shared use agreements or MOUs. MOBILITY -8. Implement a contingency -based overflow parking plan to address seasonal and event- based parking demands. MOBILITY -9. Periodically conduct a city-wide parking study to analyze existing parking infrastructure in order to effectively address and manage current and future parking needs. MOBILITY -10. Set utilization and turnover rate goals and implement dynamically adjusted (demand -based) pricing strategies for public parking supplies. MOBILITY -11. Develop a smart technology street parking system in the Coastal Zone that includes but is not limited to the following features: • Variable -cost parking linked to demand; • Smart phone application identifying available metered spaces; and • Parking pay -by -card and pay -by -phone programs. MOBILITY -12. Maintain and periodically update the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance with activities that will reduce auto trips associated with new development. MOBILITY -13. Install and maintain transportation amenities such as bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations so that they are available at each commercial district or corridor, park, and public facility. MOBILITY -14. Periodically review the South Bay Bicycle Master Plan to consider new or modified facilities and opportunities. MOBILITY -15. Facilitate the operation of bicycle rental concessions in the Coastal Zone. MOBILITY -16. Install additional bicycle parking facilities and wayfinding signage near the beach, the Pier, and The Strand. 5 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 MOBILITY -17. Identify access improvements including, but not limited to, additional bus stop pullouts, bus parking locations, a seasonal shuttle system, and drop off/pick up areas, and prioritize these improvements in the five-year Capital Improvement Program. MOBILITY -18. In conjunction with the Hermosa Beach City School District, the City will identify school access points, a proposed network, education and enforcement programs to provide a comprehensive Safe Routes to School Program. MOBILITY -19. Develop congestion management performance measures and significant impact thresholds that are in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Senate Bill 743 (S.B. 743) requirements for roadway segments and intersections. MOBILITY -20. Establish and maintain a comprehensive alternative fuel vehicle policy that annually identifies current and future charging infrastructure, evaluates installation and operational costs, and identifies funding opportunities, rebates, and incentives to support alternative fuel vehicle deployment. Sustainability + Conservation SUSTAINABILITY -1. Establish a local greenhouse gas impact fee for discretionary projects to provide an option to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated above established thresholds, by providing funding for implementation of local GHG reduction projects. SUSTAINABILITY -2. Establish greenhouse gas emissions thresholds of significance and standardize potential mitigation measures for non-exempt discretionary projects. SUSTAINABILITY -3. Develop marketing materials and participate in conferences and events to highlight the City's leadership efforts and sustainable beach city brand. SUSTAINABILITY -4. Identify, prioritize, and implement greenhouse gas reduction projects utilizing the City's carbon reduction planning tools for community and municipal operations. SUSTAINABILITY -5. Regularly monitor and evaluate the City's greenhouse gas emissions inventory and report on progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals. SUSTAINABILITY -6. Implement the City's clean fleet policy through the purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. SUSTAINABILITY -7. Concurrent with new State Building Code adoptions, periodically update or amend Green Building Standards and conduct cost effectiveness studies to incorporate additional energy -efficiency and energy production features. SUSTAINABILITY -8. Develop and market a program to offer incentives such as rebates, fee waivers, or permit streamlining to facilitate the installation of renewable energy, energy efficient, or water conservation equipment. SUSTAINABILITY -9. Maintain and periodically update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan sections of the Municipal Code to facilitate the use of new technologies or practices to conserve water. 6 • • PLAN Hermosa • SUSTAINABILITY -10. Create and adopt a Zero Waste Action Plan to maximize waste diversion • from landfills. SUSTAINABILITY -11. Amend the Municipal Code to require that all commercial facilities make full- service recycling available for both customer use and business use, placing attractive and convenient bins in clear locations. SUSTAINABILITY -12. Consistent with State law, require that all multi -family residential uses provide an adequate number of attractive and convenient recycling bins to serve the number of units in the complex. SUSTAINABILITY -13. Require that all restaurants use compostable single -use items like takeout boxes. SUSTAINABILITY -14. Create an informational packet to be distributed to development project applicants on the use of recycled materials in new development and redevelopment projects. SUSTAINABILITY -15. For City -sponsored renovation or remodeling projects, identify a list of qualified services that offer salvage services and maximize the use of such services. SUSTAINABILITY -16. Revise the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure it reflects up-to-date practices to reduce potential for soil erosion and ways to minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on the loss of topsoil. SUSTAINABILITY -17. Develop a citywide expansive and corrosive soils screening tool to reduce the need for site-specific soil reports. Parks + Open Space PARKS -1. Conduct needs assessments and evaluate recreational program offerings to ensure community needs and priorities are being met. Conduct regular updates to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. PARKS -2. Conduct periodic assessments of public facilities and maintain a list of priority replacement or new facilities projects. PARKS -3. Establish parks level of service and level of access standards to prioritize the development, upgrade, and renovation of parks and open space facilities. PARKS -4. Update City standards and fees related to the provision of parks and open space and sustainable funding source for providing high quality and well maintained facilities. PARKS -5. Where appropriate, construct parkettes, open space, and pedestrian amenities at street ends as they intersect with The Strand. PARKS -6. Continue, renew, and expand as needed, joint use agreements with the School District to allow community use of school fields and facilities. PARKS -7. Partner with the School District, community groups, and neighboring communities to identify and apply for grant opportunities to maintain, enhance, and expand park and recreational opportunities. 7 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 PARKS -8. Identify and evaluate the ADA compliance of parks, public facilities, and coastal • public access points. PARKS -9. Install accessible walkways at parks and onto the beach while minimizing or avoiding negative effects on the aesthetics and ecology of the beach environment. PARKS -10. Develop and apply evaluation procedures for development projects that have the potential to substantially obstruct, substantially interfere, or substantially degrade Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. Evaluation requirements, criteria, and provisions to allow exceptions to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards for projects with the potential to substantially obstruct, interfere or degrade Prominent Public Views and Uninterrupted Viewing Areas shall be incorporated into the review process for Precise Development Plans under Chapter 17.58 of the Zoning Ordinance as follows: • Projects located adjacent to and within the directional arrow of a Prominent Public Viewpoint, or within the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, as identified in PLAN Hermosa Figure 5.3, shall be evaluated to determine the potential to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from Prominent Public Viewpoints, or the Uninterrupted Viewing Areas. • The evaluation will be based on quantitative criteria established and adopted by the City to evaluate potential impacts to visual quality, landform quality, community character, and view quality. • Projects that are determined to substantially obstruct, interrupt, or detract from these public views shall be designed to reasonably minimize the substantial obstruction, interruption or detraction to views from the Prominent Public Viewpoints or Uninterrupted Viewing Areas, which may include an exception to setback, open space, landscaping, or other development standards. The purpose of the exception would be to accommodate the bulk of the building in a manner that minimizes the impact to the public view while providing the property owner the same development privileges enjoyed by other similar properties in the vicinity. • Landscaping material shall be used to screen uses that detract from the scenic quality of the coast from Prominent Public Viewpoints. PARKS -11. Protect public views of the Pacific Ocean by establishing and applying requirements for public works and infrastructure projects such as: • Locate new and relocated utilities underground when possible. Place and screen all other utilities to minimize public visibility. • Replace automobile -scale streetlights with shorter, pedestrian -scale streetlights where safe and appropriate. • Fences, walls, and landscaping shall not block views of scenic areas from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, parks, beaches, and other public viewing areas. 8 • • • PLAN Hermosa • Fences, walls, and landscaping shall not block views of scenic areas from designated viewpoints, scenic roads, parks, beaches, and other public viewing areas. • Hardscape elements such as retaining walls, cut-off walls, abutments, bridges, and culverts shall incorporate veneers, texturing, and colors that blend with the surrounding earth materials or landscape. PARKS -12. Minimize nighttime light pollution by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • Exterior lighting (except traffic lights, navigational lights, and other similar safety lighting) shall be minimized, restricted to low intensity fixtures, shielded (full cutoff), and downcast (emitting no light above the horizontal plane of the fixture) concealed to the maximum feasible extent so that no light source is directly visible from public viewing areas, there is no glare or spill beyond the property lines and the lamp bulb is not directly visible from within any residential unit. PARKS -13. Minimize the negative aesthetic impacts of signs by establishing or revising and applying the following design requirements: • Enforce appropriate limits on height, size, design, and materials of signs. • Prohibit signs other than traffic or public safety signs that would obstruct views to the ocean, beach, parks, or other scenic areas. • Enforce sign maintenance controls. • Continue restrictions on the use of lights and moving parts in signs, billboards, and rooftop signs. PARKS -14. Modify the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan to prohibit use of the public beach for private commercial purposes without a Coastal Development Permit. PARKS -15. Develop and implement a uniform coastal access sign program to assist the public to locate and use coastal access points. Consider adding signs to walk streets that intersect with Hermosa Avenue. PARKS -16. Identify and remove any unauthorized/unpermitted structures, including signs and fences that inhibit visibility of public coastal access points. PARKS -17. Protect public access to the coast by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • When projects may cause or contribute to adverse impacts to existing public access points, require a direct dedication or an easement to provide an alternative access point. Access ways shall be a sufficient size to accommodate two-way pedestrian passage and landscape buffer. • Implement building design and siting regulations to protect existing public access points through setbacks and other property development regulations that control building placement. • New development and redevelopment projects shall protect public accessibility to walk streets and street ends that provide access to the shoreline, the beach, and The Strand. 9 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 • New or improved beach access facilities shall accommodate persons with physical disabilities. PARKS -18. Provide detailed transit information to visitor centers and to local tourist commercial businesses, and encourage them to share these materials with visitors and patrons. PARKS -19. Amend the Local Implementation Plan/Zoning Code to require applicants for summer events occurring on weekends or holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day with greater than 1,000 participants to provide and advertise predetermined shuttle services and bicycle corrals. PARKS -20. Participate in regional and inter -jurisdictional environmental management and mitigation plans and programs such as the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Plan. PARKS -21. Partner with local nonprofits such as the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission or the University of California Los Angeles, to conduct education demonstration projects or presentations on coastal and marine habitat conservation. PARKS -22. Evaluate existing beach conditions and identify areas that may be appropriate to restore vegetated dune habitat. Pursue grant funding. PARKS -23. Review and revise as needed, the City's tree ordinance to ensure protection of existing parkway trees, and update the master tree list. PARKS -24. Complete and maintain a citywide public tree inventory, including quantity, species type, diameter, condition, trimming strategies and geo-codes and recommendations. PARKS -25. Maintain a list of approved plantings for trees and landscaping within City parkways. PARKS -26. Amend the municipal code to incorporate tree removal and replacement requirements in the public right of way. If preservation of existing mature trees is not feasible, removed trees shall be replaced at a minimum 2:1 ratio either on-site, or elsewhere as prescribed by the City. Public Safety SAFETY -1. Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Standards Code and California Fire Code, with appropriate local amendments. SAFETY -2. Continue to inventory unreinforced brick masonry, soft -story, and other seismically vulnerable private buildings. Identify potential funding sources to assist with seismic retrofits. SAFETY -3. Enforce seismic design provisions of the current California Building Standards Code related to geologic, seismic, and slope hazards, with appropriate local amendments. SAFETY -4. For properties identified as possibly containing acidic, expansive, or collapsible soils, require site-specific soil condition reports and appropriate mitigation as a condition of new development. 10 • PLAN Hermosa SAFETY -5. Evaluate tsunami preparation, evacuation, and response policies/practices to reflect current inundation maps and design standards. Include updated information in the periodically updated hazard mitigation plan. SAFETY -6. Evaluate the landslide potential of a project site and require implementation of landslide mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, areas prone to landslide are found. Potential landslide mitigation measures include, but are not limited to the following: • Avoidance: Developments should be built sufficiently far away from the threat that they will not be affected even if a landslide does occur. • Reduction: Reduction of landslide hazards should be achieved by increasing the factor of safety of the landslide area to an acceptable level, based on current engineering standards and practices. This can be accommodated by eliminating slopes with active/inactive landslides, removing the unstable soil and rock materials, or applying one or more appropriate slope stabilization methods (such as buttress fills, subdrains, soil nailing, crib walls, etc.) SAFETY -7. Require projects located within the Liquefaction Areas identified in PLAN Hermosa to evaluate the liquefaction potential and require implementation of mitigation measures when, during the course of a geotechnical investigation, shallow groundwater (60 feet or less) and potentially liquefiable soils are found. Potential liquefaction mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, soil densification or compaction, displacement or compaction grouting, and use of post -tensioned slab foundations, piles, or caissons. SAFETY -8. Support community safety and fire protection standards by establishing and applying the following development review requirements to be reviewed by HBFD and HBPD as appropriate: • New development and significant redevelopment projects shall coordinate with HBFD and Cal Water to provide and maintain adequate peak flow rates for firefighting. • New development, significant redevelopment, and public improvement projects shall ensure that building designs provide for adequate emergency access and that changes to the right-of-way do not impede access for emergency responder's apparatus or personnel. SAFETY -9. Continue working with regional partners to develop a local sea level rise model that evaluates erosion potential, provides detailed inundation maps, and provides combined sea level rise and tsunami maps. SAFETY -10. When the mean high water level exceeds 1 foot above the baseline level, partner with FEMA as a cooperating technical partner to conduct a Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study, and facilitate necessary revisions to applicable Flood Insurance Rate Maps. SAFETY -11. Prepare for changing shoreline conditions by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: 11 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 • Require new development or redevelopment project proposals within the designated area subject to flooding, inundation, or erosion due to sea level rise to describe and illustrate in site plans how the proposed project considers and mitigates potential flood hazards during the economic lifespan of the structure. Potential flood mitigation measures include, but are not limited to, flood proofing; increased ground floor elevation (a minimum of 1 -foot freeboard); ground -floor, flood -resistant exterior materials; and restricting fencing or yard enclosures that cause water to pond. • Require new development or redevelopment projects to assure stability and structural integrity and neither create nor contribute significantly to erosion, geologic instability, or destruction of the project site or surrounding area. • As local flood, erosion, and tsunami data becomes more precise, amend the General Plan and Zoning Code to establish more specific development standards and conditions. SAFETY -12. Amend the Municipal Code to establish a definition of "economic lifespan" for structural development as between 75 to 100 years, unless otherwise specified, and provide restrictions for specific development proposals. SAFETY -13. Amend the Municipal Code to require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of expanded flood risk when properties subject to inundation or flooding are developed or redeveloped. SAFETY -14. Continue to participate in regional sediment management planning. SAFETY -15. Develop a long-term adaptive shoreline management program with a strong preference for beach replenishment over shoreline protective structures. SAFETY -16. Include updated hazardous materials considerations in regular Emergency Operation Plan updates and work with the County of Los Angeles to update local Hazardous Materials Area Plans on a regular basis. SAFETY -17. Provide information, opportunities, and incentives to the community for the proper disposal of toxic materials to avoid environmental degradation to the air, soil, and water resources from toxic materials contamination. SAFETY -18. Designate an emergency response team to monitor and respond to regional disasters such as oil spills and other shoreline disasters. Such a team must maintain an emergency response plan that includes coordination with other agencies and jurisdictions in the region on initial response, aid, and recovery. SAFETY -19. Regularly evaluate crime trends and police services, facilities, personnel, and response times relative to community needs and established state and federal standards. SAFETY -20. Establish and meet EMS and Fire response time standard of 7 minutes or less for 90% of incidents. SAFETY -21. Enhance and maintain Police Department staffing and facilities to meet established proactive time targets and clearance rates that exceed national averages. 12 • • PLAN Hermosa SAFETY -22. Continue to support existing mutual and automatic aid agreements providing additional fire and police resources needed during an emergency, as feasible. SAFETY -23. Continue investing in "Reverse 911" call services and other technologies to inform the community about immediate hazards and public safety concerns. SAFETY -24. Periodically update the emergency operations plan. SAFETY -25. Periodically update the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and concurrently amend the Public Safety Element to maintain eligibility for maximum grant funding. SAFETY -26. Inventory critical facilities, key pieces of infrastructure, and other public buildings that are exposed to seismic shaking or are at an elevated risk of liquefaction and conduct retrofits or improve emergency power backup to reduce vulnerability. SAFETY -27. Review critical facilities proposed for development or expansion to ensure that hazardous conditions are mitigated or hazard reduction features are incorporated to the satisfaction of the responsible agencies. SAFETY -28. Identify hazard -specific evacuation routes and share with the public, businesses, and other government agencies. SAFETY -29. Incorporate or request from Caltrans the inclusion of soundwalls, earthen berms, or other acoustical barriers as part of any roadway improvement project adjacent to a residential area, school, or other sensitive land use, where necessary to mitigate identified adverse significant noise impacts. SAFETY -30. Enforce and periodically evaluate truck and bus movements and routes to reduce impacts on sensitive areas, and promote coordination between the Police Department and the California Highway Patrol to enforce the State Motor Vehicle noise standards, to minimize or reduce noise impacts on residential and other sensitive land uses. SAFETY -31. Apply the Noise Element standards of compatibility described in PLAN Hermosa to new development proposals. Require the mitigation of extraordinary impacts through design features such as building orientation and acoustical barriers, to ensure compatibility. SAFETY -32. Require new multi -family development, single-family development, and condominium conversion projects to meet the California Noise Insulation Standards (Title 24 of the California Administrative Code) for interior and exterior noise levels. SAFETY -33. Acoustical analysis reports prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant shall be required for new sensitive land uses within noise impact areas (i.e., those areas where the existing or future CNEL exceeds 60 dB). SAFETY -34. Adopt and enforce a quantitative Noise and Vibration Ordinance to reduce excessive noise and vibration from site-specific sources such as construction activity, mechanical equipment, landscaping maintenance, loud music, truck traffic, loading and unloading activities, and other sources. 13 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 SAFETY -35. Periodically review adopted noise standards, policies and regulations affecting noise in order to conform to changes in legislation and/or technologies. SAFETY -36. Comply with all state and federal OSHA noise standards, and all new equipment purchases shall comply with state and federal noise standards. Infrastructure INFRASTRUCTURE -1. Create a comprehensive, long-range (20 -year) infrastructure plan integrating roadway, water, wastewater, stormwater, waste disposal, and utility infrastructure systems. • Consider the best available science describing potential climate change impacts as a basis for preparing the infrastructure plan. • Use the infrastructure plan as a resource when preparing five-year Capital Improvement Hans (CIPs) and setting and enforcing discretionary development requirements. • Incrementally update the infrastructure plan following the preparation of each CIP to ensure it remains consistent with changes in growth, traffic, funding sources, climate change impacts, and state and regional regulation. INFRASTRUCTURE -2. Coordinate planning and approval processes for proposed projects to enable the siting and installation of all necessary facilities and infrastructure before or during construction or renovation activities. INFRASTRUCTURE -3. Review and, if needed, revise the Municipal Code to require utility and service providers to restore or improve streets, sidewalks, and other public areas following maintenance or repairs. INFRASTRUCTURE -4. Amend the Zoning Code to define essential utilities to include electricity, natural gas, telecommunications, water, sewer, and waste collection services, and require installation of all essential utilities prior to occupation of proposed development and redevelopment projects. INFRASTRUCTURE -5. Require, as a part of development review, new development and redevelopment projects to designate areas where public infrastructure must be accommodated and to require either a land dedication or provision of the needed infrastructure by the project applicant. INFRASTRUCTURE -6. Aggressively seek regional, state, and federal funds to leverage local money earmarked for projects listed in the CIP. INFRASTRUCTURE -7. Periodically review, and if needed, revise the development fee schedule to ensure it is adequate and reflective of proposed projects' impacts and required services. INFRASTRUCTURE -8. Improve the environmental compatibility of utility and infrastructure facilities by establishing and applying the following standards to new development and redevelopment projects involving utility installation or relocation: 14 PLAN Hermosa • New utilities must be located away from, or constructed in a manner compatible with, critical habitat areas, resources, and the shoreline. Physical and service constraints may not allow relocation away from or full compatibility with such areas and resources. INFRASTRUCTURE -9. Consult with Cal Water to estimate and evaluate water supplies, provide public information and incentives for water conservation best practices. INFRASTRUCTURE -10. Develop a policy for the installation of greywater systems and rainwater collection cisterns in parks and community facilities, where appropriate and cost effective. INFRASTRUCTURE -11. Support efforts by Cal Water to construct necessary pump and storage facilities to ensure adequate water supply and proper water system balance. INFRASTRUCTURE -12. Amend the Municipal Code to require the installation of dual water plumbing hookups for landscaping irrigation, grading, and other non -contact uses in new development and major redevelopment projects where recycled water is available or expected to be available based on adopted infrastructure plans. INFRASTRUCTURE -13. Continue to implement the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan and any implementing ordinances, including imposition of fines and other appropriate enforcement tools, for violations of water conservation rules. INFRASTRUCTURE -14. Ensure adequate and resilient sewer system capacity by establishing and applying the following development review requirements: • New development or redevelopment projects involving construction of 8 -inch diameter or larger sewers that connect directly or indirectly to the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts' sewer system must prepare a sewer plan identifying that the existing sewer collection and treatment systems have available capacity to support such an increase, or provide for necessary system upgrades as part of the proposed project. INFRASTRUCTURE -15. Hold quarterly meetings between Public Works, Community Development, and other City departments to coordinate Sewer System Management Plan implementation measures and operations. INFRASTRUCTURE -16. Implement a financing plan, including use of the adopted sewer fee and loans, to ensure that resources are available for investment in annual rehabilitation projects to improve sanitary sewer pipes. INFRASTRUCTURE -17. Prepare an annual report for City Council documenting sewer system operations, actions to minimize overflows, incidents of overflows, and their impacts on receiving waters and public health and safety. INFRASTRUCTURE -18. Continue to implement and incorporate revisions to the Clean Bay Restaurant Program and Grease Control Ordinance. INFRASTRUCTURE -19. Update program requirements to integrate the latest available Best Management Practices into the City Stormwater Management and Discharge Control 15 Implementation Actions - Revised August 2017 Ordinance, Low Impact Development (LID) Ordinance, and Green Streets Policy and regularly monitor results. INFRASTRUCTURE -20. Complete municipal demonstration projects showing residential and business property best practices in urban runoff, green streets, and LID. INFRASTRUCTURE -21. Continue to require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate green street BMPs that address stormwater runoff from the project area using the Green Street BMP Selection Guidelines identified in Attachment A of the City's Green Street Policy. INFRASTRUCTURE -22. Continue to install educational signs or symbols on major public storm drains. INFRASTRUCTURE -23. Develop a process for identifying sites deemed appropriate for alternative renewable energy power generation facilities, and provide such information to utility providers and potential developers. INFRASTRUCTURE -24. Continue to implement energy-efficient lighting throughout City facilities. INFRASTRUCTURE -25. Survey all streetlights periodically for functionality and create a response protocol to respond to reports of streetlight outages within a 24-hour time period. INFRASTRUCTURE -26. Develop criteria and procedures to facilitate the installation of telecommunications infrastructure in a manner that meets service needs and minimizes visual, noise, or other impacts to the community. 16 STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH I, Elaine Doerfling, City Clerk of the City of Hermosa Beach, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 17-7095 was duly and regularly passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hermosa Beach at a Regular Meeting of said Council at the regular place thereof on August 22, 2017. The vote was as follows: AYES: Armato, Duclos, Fangary, Petty, Mayor Massey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None Dated August 23, 2017 I A Elaine Doerfling, City Cp •