9b. Final EIR 331 — Anaheim City Council, July 23, 2024 (part 2 of 4)

4.2.3) depicts the view toward the project site to the southeast from the terminus of Fallbrook Way. This view is representative of views from residential uses in the area.

The foreground views are of existing vegetation on the adjacent hillsides. The middleground views consist of the slope/hill to the east of SR-241. Background views consist of prominent ridges.
x View W-6 – View from the north of the terminus of Weir Canyon Road looking south toward the project site. View W-6 on Exhibit 4.2-4 depicts the view looking south from the north side of Weir Canyon Road. This view is representative of views from residences located near Weir Canyon Road and Springwood Drive. The foreground views are of the adjacent slope that has some ornamental landscaping. The remainder of the slope is in its natural condition. The middleground views are of the additional slopes in the area, adjacent to SR-241 (roadway not visible). The background views are of more prominent ridgelines to the south.
x View W-7 – View from the terminus of Weir Canyon Road west of the project site looking southeast toward the project site. View W-7 (refer to Exhibit 4.2-23 in Section

4.2.3) depicts the view looking southeast from the current terminus of Weir Canyon Road at Blue Sky Road that are public roadways. This view is also representative of views from residential uses in the area. The foreground views are of fairly flat land that was previously graded for the future extension of Weir Canyon Road. The middleground views and background views are of the surrounding slopes. x View W-8 – View from Blue Sky Road west of the project site looking southeast toward the project site. View W-8 on Exhibit 4.2-24 (refer to Section 4.2.3, Impacts) depicts the view looking southeast from Blue Sky Road, southwest of the intersection of Weir Canyon Road and Blue Sky Road. The view from this vantage point is representative of views from residential uses in the area. The foreground views are of Blue Sky Road. The middleground views and background views are of the surrounding gentle slopes on the project site.

Existing Views from State Route 241
Existing views A-2 and A-3 are representative vantage points from State Route 241. The remaining existing views from SR-241 (A-1, A-4 and A-5) are discussed below but are shown in Section 4.2.3.
x View A-1 – View from SR-241 eastbound transition-ramp to SR-91 looking east toward the project site. View A-1 (refer to Exhibit 4.2-25 in Section 4.2.3) depicts the view toward the project site to the east from the SR-241 transition-ramp. The foreground views are of relatively flat, disturbed areas covered with sparse vegetation. Middleground and background views are of the surrounding slopes.
x View A-2 – View from the west side of SR-241 looking northeast toward the project site. View A-2 on Exhibit 4.2-5 depicts the view toward the project site from the west side of SR-241 (south of the SR-241/SR-91 interchange). The foreground view is varied and consists of existing roadway, SR-241 signage and a slope east of SR-241. Exposed Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-6 Landform and Aesthetics bedrock (rock outcrop) can be seen (left side of photo). Middleground and background views are more distant and consist of the quarry site in the center of the view and prominent ridgelines (ridges east of the project site and ridges adjacent to the City of Yorba Linda) in the background. Existing residences in Yorba Linda interspersed at lower and higher elevations along the hillsides are also visible in the background. x View A-3 – View from the east side of SR-241 looking northeast toward the project site. View A-3 on Exhibit 4.2-5 depicts the view toward the project site to the northeast from the east side of SR-241, (south of the SR-241/SR-91 interchange). The foreground and middleground views are primarily of the adjacent manufactured slope that is covered with vegetation. The background views consist of existing hillside residences in Yorba Linda and distant ridgelines.
x View A-4 – View from the east side of SR-241 looking northwest toward the project site. View A-4 on Exhibit 4.2-6 depicts the view toward the project site to the northwest from the east side of SR-241, south of the SR-241/SR-91 interchange. The views from this location are predominantly of the near vertical canyon walls and exposed bedrock (rock outcrop). The slope contains a variety of natural vegetation. In the background to the north (right side of the view frame), the hills and ridgelines associated with the mountain range north of SR-91 are visible.
x View A-5 – View from SR-241 looking west toward the project site. View A-5 (refer to Exhibit 4.2-28 in Section 4.2.3) depicts the view from SR-241 looking west toward the project site. The views from this location are primarily of the adjacent slopes west of SR-241. These slopes contain a variety of natural vegetation. The background views are of the slope ridgeline but are not considered major ridgelines in the area.

Existing Views from the East
As previously shown on Exhibit 4.1-1, and discussed in Section 4.1, Land Use and Planning, undeveloped open space within Chino Hills State Park (Coal Canyon Biological Corridor) is located east of the project site. Public access to this area is limited, and views to the project site would be from a ridgeline trail within the State Park. The focal point of views from the trail is background views in all directions. The disturbed quarry site and ongoing operations associated with this facility are the prominent visual features in the foreground view. Following is a discussion of specific viewsheds from the trail. It should be noted that two vantage points (Views E-1 and E-2) are analyzed in this EIR and both existing views are described below. x View E-1 – View from a public trail within Chino Hills State Park looking southwest toward the project site. View E-1 on Exhibit 4.2-7 depicts the view to the southwest from a public trail located in Chino Hills State Park, approximately 0.2 mile from the project site. The foreground views are of vegetation on an adjacent downward slope.

Middleground views are primarily of the quarry. The background views are of the surrounding ridge and the adjacent residential area. The hills and ridgeline to the west of SR-241 are visible in the background. View E-1 is from an elevated position (approximately 1,000 feet amsl) and therefore the primary views are of the middleground and background.
x View E-2 – View from a public trail within Chino Hills State Park looking northwest toward the project site. View E-2 on Exhibit 4.2-7 depicts the view to the northwest from a public trail located in Chino Hills State Park, approximately 0.7 mile from the project site. The foreground views are of vegetation on an adjacent downward slope.

Middleground views are of the existing quarry and the surrounding freeways

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-7 Landform and Aesthetics (SR-241/SR-91). The background views are of the areas to the north and south of SR-91, primarily urban development within the City of Yorba Linda, north of SR-91. On clear days, the hills and ridgeline to the north of SR-91 are visible in the background.

View E-2 is from an elevated position (approximately 1,430 feet amsl) and therefore, the primary views are of the middleground and background.

Existing Views from the South
The area south of the project site is undeveloped open space primarily within the NCCP/HCP Reserve. Significant ridgelines, including Windy Ridge, are the prominent features in this area, and provide the visual backdrop for many vantage points surrounding the project site. These ridgelines obstruct views of the site from existing developed areas to the south within the City of Orange and unincorporated areas of the County.

Light and Glare
The project site, with the exception of the on-site Robertson’s quarry, is undeveloped and does not generate any light and glare sources. Although the extraction license agreement for the Robertson’s facility expired in December 2004, it is currently implementing the Reclamation Plan and lighting is still being used consistent with conditions when they were ongoing during mining activities. The Robertson’s quarry operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and uses lighting during the nighttime operations. Night lighting operations occur from approximately sunset to sunrise. Lights are shielded and directed downward toward the quarry site; however, lighting is visible from the surrounding residential areas, SR-241 and SR-91. No other light sources exist within the project site.

Related Planning Programs
California Department of Transportation State Scenic Highway Program Through the California Scenic Highway Program, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) classifies highways as “scenic” throughout California. The purpose of the program is to preserve and protect scenic highway corridors from change, which would diminish the aesthetic value of lands adjacent to highways. According to Caltrans, “a highway may be designated scenic depending upon how much of the natural landscape can be seen by travelers, the scenic quality of the landscape, and the extent to which development intrudes upon the traveler's enjoyment of the view.”1
The proposed project site is adjacent to SR-91,
which is designated as a State of California State Scenic Highway from State Route 55 to Weir Canyon Road. East of Weir Canyon Road, SR-91 is designated as an Eligible State Scenic Highway. The City of Anaheim has officially adopted SR-91 (from SR-55 to Weir Canyon Road) as a State-Designated Scenic Highway as indicated below. The City of Anaheim and Caltrans have not designated SR-241 as a scenic roadway.

City of Anaheim General Plan
Circulation Element
The Circulation Element of the City of Anaheim General Plan contains information pertaining to designated scenic highways and roadways. Scenic Highways are transportation corridors where visual intrusions would impact views of natural beauty from the highway. As indicated above, SR-91 is a State-designated scenic highway. The City of Anaheim General Plan defines

1 http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LandArch/scenic/scpr.htm, last accessed on July 21, 2004.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-8 Landform and Aesthetics a Scenic Expressway as “divided roadways that have restricted access, serve intercity traffic, and provide scenic vistas.” (Circulation Element, Anaheim General Plan, 2004). Santa Ana Canyon Road is designated as a Scenic Expressway from Nohl Canyon Road to Weir Canyon Road. Weir Canyon Road is also designated as a Scenic Expressway from SR-91 to just south of Oak Canyon Drive. Neither Santa Ana Canyon Road nor Oak Canyon Drive is designated as a Scenic Expressway adjacent to the project site. Goals and policies of the Circulation Element related to scenic roadways that are applicable to the project, as well as an analysis of the project’s consistency with these goals and policies, are provided in Table 4.2-1 in Section 4.2.3.

Green Element
The Green Element is a single, comprehensive plan to add more green areas throughout the City and protect and enhance its natural and recreational resources. In doing so, the Green Element combines two required elements of the General Plan–Open Space and Conservation– with an optional element, Parks, Recreation and Community Services. Conserving natural resources/natural open space is a fundamental part of the Green Element. Goals and policies of the Green Element related to hillside development that are applicable to the project, as well as an analysis of the project’s consistency with these goals and policies, are provided in Table

4.2-1 in Section 4.2.3.

Land Use Element
The Land Use Element identifies land use goals and policies focused towards individual neighborhoods or areas within the City. These goals and policies help to create, preserve, and enhance these community areas. As indicated in Section 4.1, Land Use and Planning Programs, of this EIR, the proposed project is located within the “Hill and Canyon Area” of the City. This area is comprised of scenic views, well-planned residential development, and access to a variety of natural, and scenic and recreational resources. Goals and policies of the Land Use Element related to scenic resources that are applicable to the project, as well as a consistency analysis are provided in Table 4.2-1 in Section 4.2.3.

Community Design Element
The purpose of the Community Design Element is to create a positive and strong community identity for a large and diverse area. The Element seeks to provide “policy guidance that respected this diverse context while seeking to unify the City through carefully crafted design policies” (General Plan, 2004). As indicated in Section 4.1, Land Use and Planning, of this EIR, the proposed project is located within the “Hill and Canyon Area” of the City. This area is comprised of scenic views, well-planned residential development, and access to a variety of natural, and scenic and recreational resources. Goals and policies of the Community Design Element related to scenic resources that are applicable to the project, as well as a consistency analysis are provided in Table 4.2-1 in Section 4.2.3.

City of Anaheim Municipal Code
The proposed project is located within a designated Scenic Corridor Zone – Overlay, as designated in the City of Anaheim Municipal Code (Chapter 18.18). The Scenic Corridor Overlay (SC) is intended to “provide for and promote orderly growth in certain areas of the City designated as being of distinctive, scenic importance, while implementing local governmental agency actions for the protection, preservation and enhancement of the unique and natural scenic assets of these areas as a valuable resource to the community” (Anaheim Municipal Code, §18.18.010). Section 18.18.040, Tree Preservation, of the Municipal Code requires replacement of specimen trees removed as part of project implementation.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-9 Landform and Aesthetics County of Orange Scenic Highways Plan
The Orange County Scenic Highways Component of the General Plan was first adopted by the Board of Supervisors on June 12, 1973 (Resolution No. 73-659). The component identifies the County’s scenic highway routes. The primary purpose of the Scenic Highways Component is to define the policy guidelines pertaining to the implementation of the Scenic Highways Plan.

The County’s designated scenic highways have been divided into two categories: Viewscape Corridors and Landscape Corridors. A viewscape corridor is a route that traverses a corridor within which unique or unusual scenic resources and aesthetic values are found. This designation is intended to minimize the impact of the highway and land development upon the significant scenic resources along the route. A landscape corridor traverses developed or developing areas and has been designated for special treatment to provide a pleasant driving environment, as well as community enhancement. Development within the corridor should serve to complement the scenic highway. The Scenic Highways Plan has designated SR-91 as a Type 1 Scenic Highway (Viewscape Corridor) and SR-241 as a Type II Landscape Corridor.

As such, one goal is applicable to the proposed project and is described and evaluated in Table

4.2-1 in Section 4.2.3.

4.2.2 PROJECT IMPACT ANALYSIS
Thresholds of Significance
The criteria used to determine the significance of potential impacts related to landform and aesthetics are based on the City’s Initial Study and the model Initial Study checklist in Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines. The project would result in a significant impact if it would:

1. Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings.

2. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista.

3. Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a State scenic highway or local scenic roadway.

4. Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area.

5. Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect.

6. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as tree preservation policy or ordinance.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-10 Landform and Aesthetics Impact Analysis
Threshold 1: Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista.

Threshold 2: Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings
The following analysis addresses the change in the aesthetics/visual character of the project site as seen from surrounding vantage points described under the existing conditions discussion. The change in landforms (including rock outcrops) and topography resulting from the project is discussed under Threshold 3 below.

On-site Project Feature Impacts
The visual impacts of the project include both the objective visual resource change created by the project and the subjective viewer response to that change. View perception is subjective.

The perception of different viewer groups to the visual environment and its element varies based on viewer activity and awareness. Activities such as commuting in heavy traffic can distract an observer from many aspects of the visual environment. Conversely, pleasure driving or relaxing in a scenic environment can encourage an observer to look at the view more closely and at a greater length, thereby increasing the observer’s attention to detail. Sensitivity is also determined by how much the viewer has at stake in the viewshed. Typically, people who own property in the area are more sensitive to change than those passing through the area.

As described above under existing conditions, 25 vantage points surrounding the project site were selected to represent the existing viewsheds from areas surrounding the site. For purposes of analysis, 22 of these viewsheds were selected for computer-generated visual simulations, including seven vantage points selected in coordination with the City of Yorba Linda and one simulation from Chino Hills State Park. Visual simulations are prepared to demonstrate the anticipated visual change that would result from project implementation, including the proposed landscape concept, based on current conceptual project information. Lastly, views from three vantage points are depicted with the existing conditions photograph previously shown. The visual simulations are discussed below and provided in Exhibits 4.2-8 through

4.2-29.

The visual simulation process uses computer technology (CADD/digital photo simulation) to translate the two-dimensional engineering plans, and the landscape concept into a composite three-dimensional image, to depict the conceptual overall appearance of the project from off-site locations. The purpose of the simulations is to evaluate grading concepts and character, terracing, juxtaposition of building heights, and softening of building massing with landscaping.

It should be noted that design details, landscaping, materials, and colors shown in these exhibits are conceptual and will be refined during preparation of final engineering and construction documents.

Because of the project location within a Scenic Overlay Corridor and the designation of SR-91 as an Eligible State Scenic Highway, the project is subject to additional requirements related to preserving scenic resources and scenic vistas. As previously described in Section 3.3.2, Project Development Components, a landscape plan would be implemented which would emphasize the natural environment by restoring disturbed riparian slopes and using a plant palette that will transition from ornamental landscape to the existing functional landscape. As a requirement of Section 18.18.040 of the Anaheim Municipal Code, any specimen trees removed as part of project implementation would be replaced at a ratio ranging from 2:1 to 4:1 depending on the size of the tree removed. However, the proposed project involves tree replacement at a Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-11 Landform and Aesthetics ratio of 20:1, substantially higher than the City requirement. This is discussed further under the discussion for Threshold 6 below.

Proposed Views from the North
Views from the north are provided from a number of locations including the SR-91, along the Santa Ana River, and from public roadways and a community park in the City of Yorba Linda. x View N-1 Exhibit 4.2-2 previously provided under the discussion of existing conditions provides a photograph of the view from the intersection of La Palma Avenue/Weir Canyon Road looking toward the project site. This vantage point is representative of views from this area of the City and two major public roadways and was included in this analysis at the request of the City of Yorba Linda. The primary focus of the viewshed is the existing development along the roadways and various power lines and light standards. The existing quarry operations and hillside areas of the northern portion of the project site are visible in the background. Proposed development within Development Area 5 (current quarry site) would be visible from this vantage point; however, it would not represent a negative visual change. The proposed residential uses would be visually consistent with other urban development in this viewshed and surrounding areas.
x View N-2 Exhibit 4.2-8 provides a visual simulation of the proposed project from the Eastside Community Park in the City of Yorba Linda. This is an active sports park. The proposed residential development is visible in the middleground view and would alter the existing view condition from the on-site quarry and associated mined/disturbed areas and lower hillside areas to a landscaped development consistent with the surrounding developed areas.
x View N-3 Exhibit 4.2-9 provides existing and proposed views from Paseo de Toronto (a public roadway) in the hillside area of Yorba Linda north of the project site that is developed with residential uses. From View N-3, the dominant views are of the existing residences foreground and the major ridgelines in the background. Prominent background ridgelines are also a notable visual feature. Portions of Development Areas 2, 4 and 5 are visible in the middleground view and would alter the existing viewshed, introducing a residential development with substantial landscaping into an area that is primarily undeveloped with the exception of the existing quarry. The proposed residential uses are visually consistent with existing residential development in the eastern portion of the City of Anaheim on the hills adjacent to the project site west of SR-241. Views of the major ridgelines from View N-3 would be preserved and would not be obstructed by implementation of the proposed project. x View N-4 Exhibit 4.2-10 provides existing and proposed views from Kodiak Mountain Drive (a public roadway) in the hillside area of Yorba Linda. View N-4 is at a higher elevation than View N-3. From View N-4, the dominant views are of the disturbed area within the existing quarry. Prominent background ridgelines are also a notable visual feature. As shown on Exhibit 4.2-10, portions of Development Areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 are visible and would alter the existing viewshed, introducing a residential development with substantial landscaping into an area that is primarily undeveloped with the exception of the existing quarry. The proposed residential uses are visually consistent with existing residential development in the eastern portion of the City of Anaheim on the hills adjacent to the project site west of SR-241. Views of the major ridgelines from this vantage point would be preserved and would not be obstructed by implementation of the proposed project.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-12 Landform and Aesthetics x View N-5 Exhibit 4.2-11 provides the existing and proposed views from the intersection of two public roadways (La Palma Avenue and Via Lomas de Yorba East) in the City of Yorba Linda. The proposed project would alter the existing middleground views by introducing a landscaped residential development where the quarry currently exists. Development Areas 4 and 5 are visible from this vantage point. The proposed development would be visually consistent with the residential areas north of the project site in the City of Yorba Linda and west of the project site in the City of Anaheim.

Foreground views of the mature vegetation within the Santa Ana River and background views of prominent ridgelines would not be altered by implementation of the proposed project.

As previously indicated, the project site would not be visible from any of the active use areas or areas accessible to the public within Featherly Regional Park (located between this vantage point and the project site) due to elevation differences, existing mature vegetation within the Park, and retaining walls for SR-241/SR-91. x View N-6 Exhibit 4.2-12 provides the existing and proposed views from the intersection of La Palma Avenue and Gypsum Canyon Road in the City of Yorba Linda.

The proposed project would alter the middleground views by introducing a landscaped residential development where the quarry currently exists. Development Areas 4 and 5 are visible from this vantage point. The proposed development would be visually consistent with the residential areas north of the project site in the City of Yorba Linda and west of the project site in the City of Anaheim. Foreground views of the mature vegetation within the Santa Ana River and background views of prominent ridgelines would not be altered by implementation of the proposed project. x View N-7 Exhibit 4.2-13 provides existing and proposed views from a vantage point along the Santa Ana River trail. Development Area 5 is located in the area of the existing quarry that is visible from this vantage point. Additionally, portions of Development Areas 3 and 4 are visible. The proposed project would alter the existing condition of middleground views by introducing a landscaped residential development and raising the elevation. The proposed development would be visually consistent with the residential areas north of the project site in the City of Yorba Linda and west of the project site in the City of Anaheim. Foreground views of the mature vegetation within the Santa Ana River would not be altered by implementation of the proposed project.

Background views would be slightly changed due to the higher ground elevation with the project; however, prominent ridgelines are still visible. x View N-8 Exhibit 4.2-14 provides existing and proposed views from the north (westbound) side of SR-91. As previously noted, SR-91 in this area is an eligible State Scenic Highway. In View N-8, the slope adjacent to the SR-91 is the prominent view and it would be altered with a newly created landscaped slope. A portion of the proposed residences on the top of the slope within Development Area 5 would be visible from View N-8. Exhibit 4.2-30e provides a cross-section of Development Area 5 in a northwest to southeast direction. Although the views from this location would be altered, the current views are of sparsely vegetated and disturbed slopes along SR-91. x View N-9 Exhibit 4.2-15 provides existing and proposed views from the south (eastbound) side of SR-91. In View N-9, the slope adjacent to the SR-91 is the prominent view and it would be altered with a newly created landscaped slope. A portion of the proposed residences on the top of the slope within Development Area 5 would be visible from View N-9. Although the foreground views from this location would

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-13 Landform and Aesthetics be altered, the current views are of sparsely vegetated and disturbed slopes along SR-91. It should also be noted that ridgelines in the background view under existing conditions would be obstructed with the increased elevation of the foreground slope. x View N-10 Exhibit 4.2-16 provides existing and proposed views from the south (eastbound) side of SR-91. From View N-10, the only part of the project that is visible from these view locations is the newly created landscaped slope and top-of-slope berm associated with Development Area 5. Although the views from these locations would be altered, the current views are of sparsely vegetated and disturbed slopes along SR-91.

Proposed Views from the West
x View W-1 Exhibit 4.2-17 provides existing and proposed views from Banner Ridge Drive looking east toward the project site. This view is representative of views to the east from the residential uses to the west of the proposed project. The foreground views of the existing frontal slope east of SR-241 would be altered with views of Development Area 3. In the middleground views, portions of Development Areas 4 and 5 are visible.

The prominent views of the background ridgelines would not be affected. x View W-2 Exhibit 4.2-18 provides existing and proposed views from Banner Ridge Drive looking southeast toward the project site. This view is also representative of views to the southeast from the residential uses to the west of the project site. The foreground views of existing landscaping are not altered. Proposed residences within Development Areas 4 and 5 are visible in the middleground views; however, due to the difference in elevation, views of ridgelines in the background are not obstructed or altered. x View W-3 Exhibit 4.2-19 provides existing and proposed views from Oak Canyon Drive. The existing slope in the foreground view from this vantage point would be altered by Development Area 3; however, the slope would be landscaped and no homes would be visible. Portions of Development Areas 4 and 5 are visible on the lower hills east of SR-241 and would be visually consistent with existing development in the City of Yorba Linda north of SR-91. Much of this area is currently disturbed from quarry operations. In View W-3, the views of the ridgelines in the background would not be affected.
x View W-4 Exhibit 4.2-20 provides existing and proposed views from the terminus of Wiley Way. From this vantage point the foreground views would be altered with the introduction of Mountain Park Drive and the landscaped slope for Development Area 3.

Residential uses are also visible at the top of the slope. Development Areas 4 and 5 would also be visible. The foreground views of the newly created landscaped slope would become the prominent view from this vantage point and would obstruct views of the background ridgelines.
x View W-5 Exhibit 4.2-21 provides existing and proposed views from Fallbrook Way.

From this vantage point Mountain Park Drive and proposed residences in Development Area 3 are visible. The existing slope seen from this vantage point would be lowered to accommodate the proposed development. With this landform change, additional ridgelines in the background view become visible.
x View W-6 Exhibit 4.2-22 provides existing and proposed views from the north side of Weir Canyon Road, near its current terminus with Springwood Drive. In View W-6, the foreground views of the natural, sparely vegetated slope is the dominant view and would not be significantly altered. The proposed residential uses in Development Area 7 and Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-14 Landform and Aesthetics associated landscaping would be visible in the middleground view. Although changes in topography and proposed development are visible from this vantage point, the overall viewshed would not be substantially altered.
x View W-7 Exhibit 4.2-23 provides existing and proposed views from Weir Canyon Road, near its current terminus. The visual simulation depicts views from a motorists’ perspective on Weir Canyon Road traveling south east on the future extension of Weir Canyon Road. The existing slopes would be lowered to accommodate proposed Development Areas 3 and 7, which are located on either side of the roadway. The extension of Weir Canyon Road would be landscaped and proposed development would not be visible.
x View W-8 Exhibit 4.2-24 provides existing and proposed views from Blue Sky Road.

These views are also representative of views from residential uses in the area. In View W-8, the western slope for Development Area 7 and well as proposed residential uses at the top of the slope are visible. The slope would be landscaped with materials that provide a transition from the existing vegetation to the developed landscape. Due to intervening topography, there are currently no views of major ridgelines in the background view that would be obstructed by the proposed project.

It should also be noted that although the visual character of the site from views west of the project site (Views W-5, W-6, W-7, and W-8) would be altered, the proposed residential uses would be consistent with the visual character of the existing residential development and surrounding developed areas west of the project site.

Although the landform alterations resulting from proposed grading activities for the project were previously identified as a significant unavoidable impact, the visual change resulting from the landform alteration would not be considered significant with implementation of the Mitigation Program identified in Section 4.2.3.

Proposed Views from SR-241
As previously noted, SR-241 is identified as a Type II Landscape Corridor on the County of Orange Scenic Highway Plan. Following is an evaluation of the visual change from vantage points along SR-241.
x View A-1 Exhibit 4.2-25 provides existing and proposed views from the SR-241 northbound transition-ramp to SR-91. The landscaped eastern slope for Development Area 4 is visible from this vantage point. Due to the introduction of this slope in the foreground view, existing middle and background views would be obstructed. The focus of the existing view, which would be seen by motorists on SR-241, is the disturbed area adjacent to the roadway.
x View A-2 Exhibit 4.2-26 provides existing and proposed views from the west (southbound) side of SR-241 midway between the proposed Development Areas. From this vantage point, Development Areas 4 and 5 and the Mountain Park Drive bridge overcrossing are visible in the middleground views; however, the major ridgelines in the background are preserved. The proposed residential development is visually consistent with the existing hillside development in the City of Yorba Linda north of SR-91 that can be seen in the background.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-15 Landform and Aesthetics x View A-3 Exhibit 4.2-5 previously provided under the discussion of existing conditions provides an existing photo of the project site. As previously discussed, the proposed project would not be visible from View A-3.
x View A-4 Exhibit 4.2-27 provides existing and proposed views from the east (northbound) side of SR-241 look northwest toward Development Area 3. From this vantage point the views of the adjacent slopes would be changed to a landscaped slope associated with the proposed project. Although the grade of the slope would be similar in the proposed condition, the existing rock outcropping would be removed. As noted below under the discussion for Threshold 3, the removal of the rock outcropping viewed from SR-241 is a significant impact. However, with implementation of contour grading techniques and landscaping, the visual change would not substantially degrade the existing visual character in this area and the impact would be considered less than significant.

It should also be noted that views of rock outcroppings within Development Areas 3 and 7 are also visible by motorists north of Development Areas 3 and 7 traveling southbound on SR-241. Although the rock outcroppings in this area would be altered, the primary topographic scenic resources (major ridgelines) from the southbound view would not be impacted by the proposed project.
x View A-5 Exhibit 4.2-28 provides existing and proposed views from SR-241, south of proposed Development Areas, looking west toward the proposed location of the water reservoir south of Development Area 7. As shown, the views of the adjacent slopes would remain unchanged. Due to intervening topography and distance, the only change from this view would be along the ridgeline where landscaping associated with the proposed water reservoir would be visible. There would not be any notable changes in topography or visible development from this vantage point that would substantially change the existing viewshed.

Proposed Views from the East
As previously noted, Chino Hills State Park is east of the project site. Views of the proposed project site from vantage points within the park are generally limited to a public ridgeline trail in the western portion of the State Park. Following is the analysis of potential aesthetic impacts from these vantage points.
x View E-1 Exhibit 4.2-7 previously provided in the discussion of existing conditions depicts the current view from this vantage point along a trail with the State Park. As shown, the quarry is the prominent visual feature in the foreground views from this vantage point. Development Area 5 is proposed to be developed on the quarry site.

Development Areas 4 and 5 would be visible in the foreground and middleground views from View E-1. Foreground views would not be altered. Additionally, the proposed residential development would be consistent with existing developed areas in Anaheim Hills west of the project site that are visible in the background views from this vantage point. The proposed view would be similar to that shown on Exhibit 4.2-29 below for View E-2.
x View E-2 Exhibit 4.2-29 provides existing and proposed views from a public ridgeline trail within the Chino Hills State Park southeast of the project site. As shown, Development Areas 4 and 5 would be visible in the middleground views from this vantage point. Although the view would be altered, the current views include the quarry site that has been substantially disturbed by mining activities. The proposed landscape Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-16 Landform and Aesthetics plan (refer to SC 2-2 in Section 4.2.3, Mitigation Program) would create a landscape program that would emphasize the natural environment by restoring disturbed riparian and slope areas and using a plant palette that would smoothly transition from an ornamental development landscape to the existing natural landscape. It should also be noted that although the aesthetic character of the site from this vantage point would be altered, the proposed residential uses would be consistent with the visual character of the existing residential development and surrounding developed areas that can be seen in the background. Background views would not be altered or obstructed.

Proposed Views from the South
As previously noted, the area south of the project site is undeveloped permanent open space primarily within the NCCP/HCP Reserve. Access to NCCP/HCP Reserve areas off-site as well as on-site Reserve areas and open space areas associated with the TNC ACE is restricted.

Therefore, there are a very limited number of viewers from areas south of the project site.

Additionally, the prominent ridgelines south of the project site, including Windy Ridge, obstruct views of the site from uses further south in the City of Orange and unincorporated areas of the County.

In summary, the proposed project would result in visual changes, primarily associated with alterations to existing landforms and topography that are considered scenic resources. As discussed in the analysis for Threshold 3 below, the visual change associated with landform alterations as seen from scenic roadways is considered a significant and unavoidable impact of the project. However, grading techniques and landscaping have been incorporated into the proposed project (Mountain Park Specific Plan) and would ensure that proposed project would not have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista or degrade the existing visual character or quality of the project site and its surroundings. Aesthetic/visual impacts resulting from the proposed project would be less than significant with implementation of project design features and standard conditions outlined in Section 4.2.3, Mitigation Program, of this EIR.

Off-site Project Feature Impacts
The proposed off-site project features described in Section 3.3.4, include infrastructure, drainage, and roadway improvements. The infrastructure and drainage improvements would occur in already developed areas and would not result in significant visual changes. The roadway improvements include modifications to existing roadways (Gypsum Canyon Road, Santa Ana Canyon Road, Weir Canyon Road, and Oak Canyon Drive) and would not adversely alter the visual character within the area.

Caltrans-related Project Feature Impacts
The SR-241/Weir Canyon Road interchange and Mountain Park Drive bridge overcrossing would result in new roadway improvements adjacent to and over SR-241. Both facilities would be visible primarily from motorists on SR-241. The overcrossing is proposed to be a two-span cast-in-place pre-stressed concrete box girder that would also be visible from certain vantage points to the west of the project site (refer to Exhibit 4.2-18). However, existing intervening topography would shield most views of the structure. In addition, the structure would be designed with enhancements constructed to be aesthetically pleasing.

Views A-1 through A-4 described above from SR-241 include the area immediately adjacent to the roadway that is within Caltrans right-of-way. While the landform/topography altered (refer to discussion below under Threshold 3), there would not be an adverse impact to views from the

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-17 Landform and Aesthetics roadway. The modified slopes would be landscaped consistent with Caltrans requirements and would not include invasive species.

Views N-8 through N-10 on Exhibits 4.2-14, 4.2-15, and 4.2-16 depict the views of the slopes within Caltrans right-of-way north of Development Area 5. As shown, the height of the edge slope would be increased; however, there would not be an adverse impact to views from the roadway. The currently disturbed slope would be landscaped. The plant species used for landscaping within Caltrans right-of-way would be consistent with Caltrans requirements and would not include invasive species.

Other roadway and/or drainage facility modifications associated within Caltrans right-of-way would occur along existing roadways and would not degrade the visual quality of the area.

Threshold 3: Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a State scenic highway or local scenic roadway.

On-site Project Feature Impacts
For purposes of this analysis, the existing topographic features on-site are considered scenic resources. As discussed previously and depicted on the photographs provided of the project site, the landforms on-site include numerous hills and canyons. The most substantial ridgelines are located in the southern portion of the site that would be protected in open space areas. The on-site rock outcrops previously described are also considered scenic resources.

With respect to State scenic highways and local scenic roadways, the on-site scenic resources (topographic features and rock outcrops) are visible primarily from SR-241 that is designated a Type II Landscape Corridor in the County of Orange General Plan. Views from SR-241 are depicted on Exhibits 4.2-6 and 4.2-25 through 4.2-28. Refer to View A-4 (Exhibit 4.2-27) which shows the rock outcroppings along the western side of SR-241. The views from SR-91 are shown in Views N-8 through N-10 on Exhibits 4.2-14, 4.2-15, and 4.2-16. As shown, views into the site are limited due to the difference in elevation between the roadway and the project site.

There is an existing slope that obstructs views into the site. The analysis of visual changes from vantage points along these roadways is provided above under Thresholds 1 and 2.

The project site would not be visible from the portions of Weir Canyon Road and Santa Ana Canyon Road that are designated by the City of Anaheim as scenic expressways.

Landform/Topography
The grading required for the proposed project would permanently alter the landform/topography over the northern portion of the project site that is visible from SR-241 (refer to Exhibits 4.2-6 and 4.2-25 through 4.2-28). Approximately 2,163 acres primarily in the southern portion of the site would remain open space (72 percent of the site). As discussed in Section 3.3.2, Project Development Components, the proposed project would use contour grading and would be terraced, allowing development pads to blend with the project site’s natural topography as much as feasible. The proposed project would require approximately 26 million cubic yards of earthwork (cut and fill) and an additional 20 million cubic yards of remedial grading (excavation and recompaction of soils) to ensure slope stability. However, as discussed below, various grading techniques are proposed to minimize landform disturbance. The visual changes associated with landform changes were previously discussed under the analysis of Thresholds 1 and 2.

Mountain Park Specific Plan Amendment
Draft EIR No. 331
R:\Projects\TIC\J020\Draft EIR\4.2 Aesthetics-031405.doc 4.2-18 Landform and Aesthetics The areas of major cut and fill resulting from project grading were previously shown in Exhibit 3-16. Cross-sections to demonstrate the extent of landform changes are provided in Exhibits 4.2-30a-e and discussed below. Overall, cut and fill depths from existing to proposed elevations vary from one to 210 feet.

Following is a discussion of the proposed grading (cut and fill) that would be required for each Development Area. The discussion is supported by cross-sections of the future grading based on information provided by the project engineers. Cross-sections were chosen to be representative of the overall landform changes within each Development Area; however, not all landform changes are depicted in these exhibits. It should be noted that grading techniques to be used for all of the Development Areas (e.g., contour grading) to reduce potential impacts are outlined in the Anaheim Municipal Code Chapter 17.06, Grading, Excavations and Fills in Hillside Areas. Contour grading is the transitional use of variable slopes and the blending of these slopes into contours compatible with the natural terrain with the toe or top of the slope varying from a straight line. The proposed project would comply with all requirements of the City’s Municipal Code relative to grading, as feasible. In certain instances, the Mountain Park Specific Plan includes grading design standards that deviate from the City’s grading policy; however, achieve the intent of the grading policy with regard to the natural appearance of manufactured slopes through use of grading and landscaping techniques. In general, as shown in the cross-sections for each of the Development Areas, the cuts and fills proposed as part of the project are designed to follow the natural topography to the extent feasible.

As noted previously, the southern portion of the project site that includes more prominent landform features would remain in permanent open space. The ridgelines in this area as well as more substantial ridgelines surrounding the project site, such as Windy Ridge (refer to Exhibit 3-3 in Section 3, Project Description) would not be impacted with implementation of the proposed project.

Development Area 1
The proposed conceptual grading plan for Development Area 1 would generally consist of lowering the grades along the northern portion and raising the grades in the central portion of the Development Area. The grading in Development Area 1 would accommodate a maximum of 210 single-family detached residential pads.

Cross-section A-A shown in Exhibit 4.2-30a depicts the landform changes proposed within Development Area 1. Cross-section A-A bisects the development area in an east-west direction and depicts the current landform features as viewed from areas to the west. The largest cut and fill areas shown on Cross-section A-A are approximately 40 feet and 80 feet, respectively.

However, not shown on the cross-section, larger cuts and fills would be required in this Development Area. The maximum proposed cut is 140 feet on the southeast facing cut slope along the northwest boundary of Development Area 1. The deepest fill, excluding remedial removals, is 100 feet within the large drainage through the central part of the Development Area. These larger cuts and fills are concentrated in the interior portions of Development Area 1, minimizing the extent of visibility from surrounding areas.

Within the southern portion of Development Area 1, a steeply eroded drainage exposes badland topography. This is considered to be a rock outcropping which is defined as an area where natural undisturbed bedrock may be exposed, generally in areas that are too steep for colluvium to form. This area is visible from northbound SR-241, near the proposed SR-241/Weir Canyon Road Interchange, but would not be impacted by the proposed project. The rock outcrops in this area would not be altered. A second area within the southern portion of Development Area 1, where an east-west trending drainage crosses the site, exposes another rock FUSCOE