Agenda packet, regular meeting, third session — Citrus Heights City Council Meetings, July 8, 2026 (part 1 of 6)

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of Wednesday, July 8, 2026
City Hall Council Chambers 6360 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 5:00 PM SPECIAL MEETING
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING

WATCH A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The City of Citrus Heights welcomes your interest and involvement in the City’s legislative process. The following methods are available to observe a Council meeting:
l In person: City Hall Council Chambers
l Join Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82346696289 l Online: Livestream and replay past meetings at www.citrusheights.net l On Television: Watch live and replays of meetings on Sac Metro Cable, Channel 14 HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

The City provides the following ways to participate in a Council meeting:
l In-person public comments: Please fill out a blue Speaker Identification Card and give it to the City Clerk before the item is heard l Live remote public comments:
n Join Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82346696289 n Dial-in: 1-669-900-6833 | Webinar ID: 823 4669 6289
n Press *9 to raise your hand to request to speak
n Press *6 to unmute when called upon to speak
l Written public comments:
n Submit written comments by 4:00 p.m. on the meeting date by completing an online Speaker Card citrusheights.net/FormCenter/City-Council-Meetings-Speaker-Card-30 Written comments will not be read during the City Council meeting but will be forwarded to all Council Members and become part of the public record.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT:

If you need a disability-related modification or accommodation, to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office 916-725-2448, [email protected], or City Hall 6360 Fountain Square Drive at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. TDD: California Relay Service 7-1-1.

July 8, 2026 City Council Agenda Packet
07-08-26 SPECIAL AND REGULAR COUNCIL AGENDA PACKET.PDF
Agenda Item 19 - Staff Report And Attachments
ITEM 19 FINAL.PDF

CALL SPECIAL MEETING TO ORDER

1. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski - Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez - Taff

PUBLIC COMMENT

CLOSED SESSION

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency designated representatives: Ashley Feeney, City Manager, Ryan Jones, City Attorney, and Patrick Clark, Negotiator Employee Organization: Citrus Heights Police Officers Association, Citrus Heights Police Employees Association, and unrepresented employees

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

CALL REGULAR MEETING TO ORDER

1. Flag Salute

2. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski -Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez -Taff

3. Video Statement

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

PRESENTATIONS

4. Proclamation Of The City Of Citrus Heights Honoring Alison Bermudez On The Occasion Of Her Retirement From The City Of Citrus Heights

5. Presentation Of The 2026 Planning Agency Award Of Merit From The Sacramento Valley Chapter Of The American Planning Association

6. Winners Of The “Postcards From Citrus Heights” Tree Photo Contest

7. Proclamation Of The City Of Citrus Heights Proclaiming July 2026 As “Park And Recreation Month”

PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public are entitled to address the City Council concerning any item within the City Council ’s subject matter jurisdiction. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the City Council is prohibited from discussing or acting on any item raised during “Public Comment ” not appearing on the posted agenda.

COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND REGIONAL BOARD UPDATES

CONSENT CALENDAR
It is recommended that all consent items be acted on simultaneously unless separate discussion and/or action are requested by a Council Member.

8. SUBJECT: Approval Of Minutes
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting of March 18, 2026

9. SUBJECT: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan To Stock Ranch Extension Project – Adoption Of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declarations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan

10. SUBJECT: Creek Erosion And Bridge Scour Protection Project – Adoption Of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Creek Erosion and Bridge Scour Protection Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declarations and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program

11. SUBJECT: Adoption Of The 2026 Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) Update STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer / M. Poole RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the 2026 Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) Update

12. SUBJECT: Sale Of Real Property Located At 7859 Casa Bella Way STAFF REPORT: R. Cave
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Authorizing the Sale of Real Property at 7859 Casa Bella Way, Designating the City Manager as the Authorized Signatory for Any and All Documents Related to this Sale

PUBLIC HEARINGS

13. SUBJECT: 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Funding STAFF REPORT: A. Turcotte / K. Frey / C. Kinnan
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Accepting 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) in Accordance with State Requirements

14. SUBJECT: Landscape Maintenance Assessment District 97-01 (Zones 1, 2, 3 & 4) – Levy Of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
a. Convene the public hearing for the district regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 97-01 (Zones 1, 2, 3 & 4)

15. SUBJECT: Landscape Maintenance Assessment Districts 98-01, 98-02 And 03-01 – Levy Of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
a. Convene the public hearing for the district regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 98-01 (Stock Village Units Nos. 1 and 2); and
c. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 98-02 (Zone 1: Sorenson Ranch, Zone 2:

Autumnwood, Zone 3: Mariposa Creek and Zone 4: Wyatt Ranch); and d. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 03-01 (Stock Ranch Zones 1: Stock Ranch North, Zone 2: Stock Ranch South and Zone 3: Mitchell Farms)

16. SUBJECT: Citrus Heights Lighting Assessment District – Levy Of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Annual Assessments STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
a. Convene a public hearing for the District regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for the Citrus Heights Lighting Assessment District.

17. SUBJECT: Resolution Confirming Report Of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges And Ordering Collection Of Delinquencies On The Property Tax Roll STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / M. Poole
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
a. Conduct a Public Hearing on the Report of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges; and b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of Citrus Heights, California, Confirming a Report of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges and Ordering Collection of Delinquencies on the Property Tax Roll

REGULAR CALENDAR

18. SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting The Nomination Of Three Citrus Heights Census Tracts For An Opportunity Zone Designation STAFF REPORT: M. Huber / A. Aguirre
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-____ , A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Supporting the Nomination of Three Eligible Citrus Heights Census Tracts for Opportunity Zone 2.0 Designation

19. SUBJECT: Resolutions Adopting The Memorandums Of Understanding For The Citrus Heights Police Officers’ Association And The Citrus Heights Police Employees Association; Amended Salary Table With Cost-Of-Living Adjustments And Select Market Equity Adjustments; And Amendments To The Employer Contribution Level For Employee Health Benefits STAFF REPORT: S. Talwar / M. Rojas
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
a. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for the Citrus Heights Police Officers Association; and b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for the Citrus Heights Police Employees Association; and c. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting an Amended Salary Table with Cost-of-Living Adjustments and Select Market Equity Adjustments; and d. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Amendments to the Employer Contribution Level for Employee Health Benefits

ITEMS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL MEMBERS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

CITY MANAGER ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT
ADDRESSING THE CITY COUNCIL:

The Council may take up any agenda item at any time, regardless of the order listed. If you wish to address the Council during the meeting, please fill out a Speaker Identification Sheet and give it to the City Clerk before the item is heard. When you are called upon to speak, step forward to the podium and state your name for the record. Normally, speakers are limited to three (3) minutes each. The Mayor has the discretion to lengthen or shorten the allotted times.

LEVINE ACT:

The Levine Act (Government Code Section 84308) requires parties to a proceeding before the City of Citrus Heights involving a license, permit or other entitlement for use to disclose any contribution over $500 made to a City elected or appointed officer (including Council Members and Planning Commissioners) within the 12 months before and 12 months after the City decision, and are prohibited from making, participating in, or using their official position to influence the decision.

WRITINGS RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA POSTING:

Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection during normal business hours at City Hall, located at 6360 Fountain Square Drive. Audio/Visual presentation material must be provided to the City Clerk’s Office at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Email subscriptions of the agenda are available online by signing up with the City’s Notify Me service.

Documents:

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of Wednesday, July 8, 2026
City Hall Council Chambers 6360 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 5:00 PM SPECIAL MEETING
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT:

July 8, 2026 City Council Agenda Packet
07-08-26 SPECIAL AND REGULAR COUNCIL AGENDA PACKET.PDF
Agenda Item 19 - Staff Report And Attachments
ITEM 19 FINAL.PDF

CALL SPECIAL MEETING TO ORDER

1. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski - Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez - Taff

PUBLIC COMMENT

CLOSED SESSION

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

CALL REGULAR MEETING TO ORDER

1. Flag Salute

2. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski -Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez -Taff

3. Video Statement

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

PRESENTATIONS

4. Proclamation Of The City Of Citrus Heights Honoring Alison Bermudez On The Occasion Of Her Retirement From The City Of Citrus Heights

5. Presentation Of The 2026 Planning Agency Award Of Merit From The Sacramento Valley Chapter Of The American Planning Association

6. Winners Of The “Postcards From Citrus Heights” Tree Photo Contest

7. Proclamation Of The City Of Citrus Heights Proclaiming July 2026 As “Park And Recreation Month”

COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND REGIONAL BOARD UPDATES

CONSENT CALENDAR
It is recommended that all consent items be acted on simultaneously unless separate discussion and/or action are requested by a Council Member.

8. SUBJECT: Approval Of Minutes
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting of March 18, 2026

PUBLIC HEARINGS

REGULAR CALENDAR

ITEMS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL MEMBERS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

CITY MANAGER ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT
ADDRESSING THE CITY COUNCIL:

LEVINE ACT:

WRITINGS RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA POSTING:

Documents:

MariJane Lopez-Taff, Mayor
Porsche Middleton, Vice Mayor
Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa, Council Member
Kelsey Nelson, Council Member
Tim Schaefer, Council Member

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL
Special and Regular Meetings of Wednesday, July 8, 2026 City Hall Council Chambers, 6360 Fountain Square Dr., Citrus Heights, CA 95621 Special Meeting 5:00 p.m.

Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.

WATCH A CITY COUNCIL MEETING

The City of Citrus Heights welcomes your interest and involvement in the City’s legislative process. The following methods are available to observe a Council meeting:
• In person: City Hall Council Chambers
• Join Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82346696289 • Online: Livestream and replay past meetings at www.citrusheights.net • On Television: Watch live and replays of meetings on Sac Metro Cable, Channel 14

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

The City provides the following ways to participate in a Council meeting:
• In-person public comment s: Please fill out a blue Speaker Identification Card and give it to the City Clerk before the item is heard
• Live remote public comments:
o Join Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82346696289 o Dial-in: 1-669-900-6833 | Webinar ID: 823 4669 6289
▪ Press *9 to raise your hand to request to speak
▪ Press *6 to unmute when called upon to speak
• Written public comments:
o Submit written comments by 4:00 p.m. on the meeting date by completing an online Speaker Card citrusheights.net/FormCenter/City-Council-Meetings-Speaker-Card-30 Written comments will not be read during the City Council meeting but will be forwarded to all Council Members and become part of the public record.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT:

July 2, 2026
_______________________
Amy Van, City Clerk

Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Page 2 of 6 ends

SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
5:00 PM

CALL SPECIAL MEETING TO ORDER

1. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski-Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez-Taff

PUBLIC COMMENT

CLOSED SESSION

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency designated representatives: Ashley Feeney, City Manager, Ryan Jones, City Attorney, and Patrick Clark, Negotiator
Employee Organization: Citrus Heights Police Officers Association, Citrus Heights Police Employees Association, and unrepresented employees

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

CALL REGULAR MEETING TO ORDER

1. Flag Salute

2. Roll Call: Council Members: Karpinski-Costa, Nelson, Schaefer, Middleton, Lopez-Taff

3. Video Statement

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

PRESENTATIONS

4. Proclamation of the City of Citrus Heights Honoring Alison Bermudez on the Occasion of Her Retirement from the City of Citrus Heights

5. Presentation of the 2026 Planning Agency Award of Merit from the Sacramento Valley Chapter of the American Planning Association

6. Winners of the “Postcards from Citrus Heights” Tree Photo Contest

7. Proclamation of the City of Citrus Heights Proclaiming July 2026 as “Park and Recreation Month”

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
6:00 PM
Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Page 3 of 6 ends

PUBLIC COMMENT
This is an opportunity to make a public comment on non-agenda items. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the City Council is prohibited from discussing or acting on any item raised during “Public Comment” not appearing on the posted agenda.

COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND REGIONAL BOARD UPDATES

CONSENT CALENDAR (Estimated Start Time 6:45 p.m.)
It is recommended that all consent items be acted on simultaneously unless separate discussion and/or action are requested by a Council Member.

8. SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting of March 18, 2026

9. SUBJECT: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project – Adoption of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declarations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan

10. SUBJECT: Creek Erosion and Bridge Scour Protection Project – Adoption of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Creek Erosion and Bridge Scour Protection Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declarations and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program

11. SUBJECT: Adoption of the 2026 Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) Update STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer / M. Poole RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the 2026 Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) Update

12. SUBJECT: Sale of Real Property Located at 7859 Casa Bella Way STAFF REPORT: R. Cave
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Authorizing the Sale of Real Property at 7859 Casa Bella Way, Designating the City Manager as the Authorized Signatory for Any and All Documents Related to this Sale

PUBLIC HEARINGS (Estimated Start Time 6:50 p.m.)

Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Page 4 of 6 ends

14. SUBJECT: Landscape Maintenance Assessment District 97-01 (Zones 1, 2, 3 & 4) – Levy of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:

a. Convene the public hearing for the district regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and

b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 97-01 (Zones 1, 2, 3 & 4)

15. SUBJECT: Landscape Maintenance Assessment Districts 98-01, 98-02 and 03-01 – Levy of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:

a. Convene the public hearing for the district regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and

b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 98-01 (Stock Village Units Nos. 1 and 2); and

c. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 98-02 (Zone 1: Sorenson Ranch, Zone 2: Autumnwood, Zone 3: Mariposa Creek and Zone 4: Wyatt Ranch); and

d. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, to Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and to Levy Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Assessments for Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 03-01 (Stock Ranch Zones 1: Stock Ranch North, Zone 2: Stock Ranch South and Zone 3: Mitchell Farms)

16. SUBJECT: Citrus Heights Lighting Assessment District – Levy of Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Annual Assessments
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:

a. Convene a public hearing for the District regarding the proposed annual assessment for Fiscal Year 2026/2027; and

Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Page 5 of 6 ends

17. SUBJECT: Resolution Confirming Report of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges and Ordering Collection of Delinquencies on the Property Tax Roll
STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / M. Poole
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:

a. Conduct a Public Hearing on the Report of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges; and

b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of Citrus Heights, California, Confirming a Report of Delinquent Solid Waste Charges and Ordering Collection of Delinquencies on the Property Tax Roll

REGULAR CALENDAR (Estimated Start Time 7:30 p.m.)

18. SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting the Nomination of Three Citrus Heights Census Tracts for an Opportunity Zone Designation
STAFF REPORT: M. Huber / A. Aguirre
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-____ , A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Supporting the Nomination of Three Eligible Citrus Heights Census Tracts for Opportunity Zone 2.0 Designation

19. SUBJECT: Resolutions Adopting the Memorandums of Understanding for the Citrus Heights Police Officers’ Association and the Citrus Heights Police Employees Association; Amended Salary Table with Cost-of-Living Adjustments and Select Market Equity Adjustments; and Amendments to the Employer Contribution Level for Employee Health Benefits STAFF REPORT: S. Talwar / M. Rojas
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:

a. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for the Citrus Heights Police Officers Association; and

b. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for the Citrus Heights Police Employees Association; and

c. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting an Amended Salary Table with Cost-of-Living Adjustments and Select Market Equity Adjustments; and

d. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-___, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting the Amendments to the Employer Contribution Level for Employee Health Benefits

ITEMS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL MEMBERS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

CITY MANAGER ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT
Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Page 6 of 6 ends

ADDRESSING THE CITY COUNCIL:

LEVINE ACT:

WRITINGS RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA POSTING:

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL

MINUTES
Special Meeting of Wednesday, March 18, 2026
City Hall Large Conference Room and Community Room
6360 Fountain Square Dr., Citrus Heights, CA 95621
CALL

SPECIAL MEETING TO ORDER
The s
pecial meeting was called to order at 8:30 a.m. by Mayor Lopez-Taff.

1. Fl
ag Salute

2. Roll Ca
ll: Council Members present: Karpinski-Costa, Nelson, Middleton, Lopez-Taff Council Members absent: Schaefer
Staff Members present: Cave, Feeney, Huber, D. Jones, R. Jones, Kempenaar, Talwar, Turcotte and Van
ST

RATEGIC PLANNING RETREAT

3. Ref
er to the attached agenda.

The C
ity Council held a Strategic Planning Workshop. Nick Gunn, with The NiVACK Group, facilitated the meeting.

Publ
ic Comment
Nat
alee Price addressed the City Council regarding revisiting the strategic annexation of the Antelope Road/Roseville Road corner, and a potential future low-energy data center.

GiG
i Rayford addressed the City Council regarding expanding the arts footprint in Citrus Heights, including installing more murals.

ADJO

URNMENT
May
or Lopez-Taff adjourned the special meeting at 4:47 p.m.

Res
pectfully submitted,
______
____________________
Amy Van, City Clerk
ITEM 8

Annual Strategic Planning Session
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | Citrus Heights Community
Room/Large Conference Room
6360 Fountain Square Drive

A G E N D A

TIME* TOPIC

8:00 to 8:30 am Breakfast

8:30 to 8:35 am Pledge of allegiance and welcome by Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taﬀ

8:35 to 8:45 am Ice breaker

8:45 to 9:00 am City mission statement, goals and objectives by City Manager Ash Feeney

9:00 to 9:15 am Invitation for public comment related to strategic planning

9:15 to 930 am BREAK

9:30 to 11:30 am Stakeholder perspectives
• Staﬀ Feedback/City Manager Comments (Feeney)
• Community Feedback Benchmarking (Flashvote) – (Huber) • School Survey Data (Huber)
• Council Input and Perspectives (Gunn)

11:30 to 12:00 pm LUNCH BREAK

12:00 pm to 2:00 pm Council reﬂections, discussion, and input

2:00 to 2:15 pm BREAK

2:15 to 2:30 pm Council Priority Exercise

2:30 to 4:45pm Draft Strategic Objectives

4:45 to 5:00 pm Summary and adjourn (Mayor Lopez-Taﬀ)

*All times listed with the exception of the start time are approximate and subject to change.

ITEM 8

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT

MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 8, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council Members
Ashley J. Feeney, City Manager
F
ROM: Regina Cave, General Services Director
Leslie Blomquist, City Engineer
Daniel Kehrer, Principal Civil Engineer
S
UBJECT: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project Adoption of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Recommendation
S
taff has prepared the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project (Project) Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND; State Clearinghouse Number [SCH] No. 2026050432), in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The IS/MND evaluates the anticipated environmental impacts of the proposed Project.

T
he Project proposes to construct a 0.45-mile multi-use trail providing bicycle and pedestrian facilities along an existing dirt path between Sylvan Road and Stock Ranch Commercial Center.

In accordance with CEQA, the draft IS/MND was circulated for a 30-day public review period from May 15 to June 15, 2026. All comments received have been responded to and are included within the Final IS/MND for the Project.

S
taff recommends the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declarations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan.

S
trategic Plan Alignment
T
his item aligns with the following Citrus Heights City Council Strategic Plan Three Year Goal:

Goal: Maintain Public Infrastructure and Enhance All Modes of Transportation F
iscal Impact
T
he recommended action will not impact the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026/27 budget or the current Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Minor fees for recording the documents with the Sacramento County Recorder’s Office will be covered using funds already allocated in the City’s current CIP.

ITEM 9
Subject: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project -Adoption of IS/MND Date: July 8, 2026

Page 2 of 3 ends

Background and Analysis

The Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project will construct a

0.45-mile multi-use trail segment connecting the existing trail within the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve (behind Stock Ranch Commercial Center) to Sylvan Road. The new trail will follow the existing creek corridor and use an existing easement through the Huntington Square Apartments property at 7311 Huntington Square Lane. This Project will expand the City’s trail network and improve access to nearby neighborhoods, retail centers, schools, public services, community centers and open spaces. It is identified as a Priority 1 segment (Segment A-7) in the City Council approved Creek Corridor Trail Project Feasibility Report.

The Project includes the following design features:
• New signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road with median refuge • Trail lighting and wayfinding signage
• Bridge over a tributary of Arcade Creek
• Embankment repairs along Arcade Cree near the trail alignment

In 2024, the City was awarded a $1,189,000 Regional Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) grant from SACOG to fund all preliminary and final design activities. As the Project utilizes federal funding, additional studies and environmental documentation was prepared accordance with the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA). California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Local Assistance staff has completed its review and indicated that a NEPA Categorical Exclusion will be issued once the City Council approves a resolution adopting the CEQA findings.

On October 22, 2025, the City Council approved a resolution to enter into an agreement with Dokken Engineering to complete the preliminary and final design phases of the Project in an amount not to exceed $1,175,752.16.

Upon contract award, City staff and the consultant team began work on the preliminary design and environmental documentation of the Project along with the required tribal consultation, as required by CEQA. Preliminary engineering is complete, and the draft CEQA document was circulated for public and stakeholder review through the city’s website, direct mailers, and public posting per State Clearinghouse.

On June 4, 2026, staff and the consultant team held an in-person public workshop at the Sylvan Community Center to present the Project, share environmental findings, and gather public input before finalizing the Mitigation Monitoring Plan. The majority of comments received supported the Project’s design features.

Attachment 2 contains the final revisions to the IS/MND, which evaluates potential environmental impacts and identifies mitigation measures to reduce potential impacts to less than significant levels. Appendix J lists all comments submitted in person or by email during the comment period (May 15 – June 15, 2026).

As a result of the environmental analysis, the IS/MND concludes that, with the incorporation of several mitigation measures, the Project will not have a significant effect on the environment.

ITEM 9
Subject: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail – Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project -Adoption of IS/MND Date: July 8, 2026

Page 3 of 3 ends

The mitigation measures included in the IS/MND are summarized below:

• Standard Cultural and Archeological mitigations for contractor awareness training and Native American tribal notification of initial ground disturbances. • Cessation of all work if cultural or human remains are encountered. • Basic emission and noise control measures shall be followed during construction. • Implementation of best management practices to reduce erosion during construction. • Numerous biological-resource-related mitigations, avoidance measures, and pre- construction surveys.
• Regulatory permitting requirements through State Water Board, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Army Corps of Engineers and Regional Water Quality Control Board. • Compliance with Citrus Heights and Sacramento County Tree Preservation requirements. • Minimization of floodplain impacts and coordination with State, Federal, and Local flood control agencies.
• Construction traffic management plan to minimize impacts to public streets and maintain a high level of safety.

CEQA requires these mitigation measures be incorporated into a Mitigation Monitoring Plan to ensure they are implemented during the Project.

Attachments

1. Resolution No. 2026-___ A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Adopting Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project IS/MND and Mitigation Monitoring Plan.

2. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Final IS/MND.

3. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Mitigation Monitoring Plan.

ITEM 9
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS,

CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL SYLVAN TO STOCK

RANCH EXTENSION PROJECT INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE

DECLARATIONS AND MITIGATION MONITORING PLAN

WHEREAS, on March 27, 2014 the City of Citrus Heights City Council adopted the Creek Corridor Trail Project Feasiblility Report identifying priority segments of a multi-use trail network;

WHEREAS, the City of Citrus Heights intends to consruct Priority 1 Segment A-7 of the Creek Corridor Trail system, which has been named Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project;

WHEREAS, in 2024, the City was awarded a regional Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) grant for preliminary engineering, environmental documentation, right-of-way, public outreach services and final design of the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project;

WHEREAS, Caltrans has authorized the City to proceed with the project approval and completing the final design phase of the Project;

WHEREAS, on October 22, 2025, the City entered into a Professional Services agreement with Dokken Engineering in an amount not to exceed $1,175,752.16;

WHEREAS, the Citrus Heights City Council serves as the Lead Agency for the Arcade- Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project;

WHEREAS, Citrus Heights staff has reviewed and published an Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Project in conformance with California Environmental Quality Act requirements;

WHEREAS, on June 4, 2026, a Public Workshop was held for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration at the Sylvan Community Center and met with several individuals to solicit feedback about the proposed project, during the public comment period, which ran between May 15 and June 15, 2026 (State Clearinghouse No. 2026050432);

WHEREAS, the Citrus Heights City Council is able to conclude that potential impacts could be avoided or reduced to a level of insignificance by implementing the mitigation measures set forth in the revised Final Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration; and

WHEREAS, the City of Citrus Heights will file the Notice of Determination with the County Clerk, including any associated fees upon the approval of this Resolution.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AND ORDERED that the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights hereby finds as follows:

ITEM 9

Findings for a Mitigated Negative Declaration:

1. An Initial Study was prepared for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project and proper notice and opportunity for public review and comment was provided in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines and local guidelines.

2. That based upon the Initial Study, and the substantial evidence in the City's administrative record, potential impacts resulting from the Project have been identified. Mitigation measures have been proposed in the Initial Study and agreed to by the City within the Mitigation Monitoring Plan that will, when implemented, reduce all potential impacts to a less than significant level. In addition, there is no substantial evidence in the record before the City that supports a fair argument that the Project, as conditioned and mitigated, could have any residual significant effect on the environment.

3. That the Project does not have the potential to have a significant adverse impact on wildlife resources as defined in the State Fish and Game Code, either individually or cumulatively and is not exempt from Fish and Game filing fees.

4. That the Project is not located on a site listed on any Hazardous Waste Site List compiled by the State pursuant to Section 65962.5 of the California Government Code.

5. That the City Council reviewed the Initial Study and considered public comments before making a recommendation on the project.

6. That a Mitigation Monitoring Plan has been prepared to ensure compliance with the adopted mitigation measures, which Mitigation Monitoring Plan was considered by the City Council and which Mitigation Monitoring Plan is made a part of this Resolution.

7. That the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared concerning the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project reflects the independent judgment and analysis of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights.

8. The City Council hereby adopts as "final" the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Mitigated Negative Declaration (attached as Exhibit A) with the minor modifications identified below, and the Mitigation Monitoring Plan (attached as Exhibit B).

9. That the record of proceedings of the decision on the Project is available for public review at the City of Citrus Heights Community Development Department, 6360 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, California during normal business hours.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Citrus Heights City Council, in reference to the potential impacts identified in the Initial Study, hereby adopts the Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project including the mitigation measures (contained within the attached Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Plan) and included in this Resolution by reference.

The City Clerk shall certify the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions.

ITEM 9

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, this 8th day of July 2026 by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: Council Members:

NOES: Council Members:

ABSTAIN: Council Members:

ABSENT: Council Members:

MariJane Lopez-Taff, Mayor
ATTEST:

Amy Van, City Clerk

Exhibit

A. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road) to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Final Initial Study with Mitigated Negative Declaration

B. Mitigation Monitoring Plan
ITEM 9

FINAL INITIAL STUDY/

WITH MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SLYVAN ROAD TO STOCK

RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT

CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2026
ITEM 9

This page intentionally blank
ITEM 9

FINAL INITIAL STUDY

WITH MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SLYVAN ROAD TO STOCK

RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT
City of Citrus Heights, California
Submitted to:

City of Citrus Heights
6360 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Prepared by:

Dokken Engineering
110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200
Folsom, California 95630
July 2026
ITEM 9

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ITEM 9

i
General Information About This Document
The Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was circulated for public review for a 30- day period from May 15, 2026, through June 15, 2026, in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This Final IS/MND incorporates revisions made in response to comments received during the public review period. All changes to the Draft IS/MND are identified using track changes for ease of reference.

For individuals with sensory disabilities, this document can be made available in Braille, in large print, on audiocassette, or on computer disk. To obtain a copy in one of these alternate formats, please call or write to City of Citrus Heights, Planning Division, Attn: Daniel Kehrer, Principal Civil Engineer, 6360 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 95621, (916) 727-4904.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT ii
Table of Contents
General Information About This Document ........................................................................................................ i INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................................................1 PROJECT BACKGROUND ...............................................................................................................................1 INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST ..........................................................................................................................5 SECTION 1.0 - BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................5 SECTION 2.0 – ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTED ............................................11 SECTION 3.0 - ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED ..........................................18 SECTION 4.0 - ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST ........................................................................................19 I. AESTHETICS .............................................................................................................................19 II. AGRICULTURE / FORESTRY RESOURCES .........................................................................21 III. AIR QUALITY ...........................................................................................................................24 IV. BIOLOGICAL ............................................................................................................................32 V. CULTURAL RESOURCES........................................................................................................49 VI. ENERGY .....................................................................................................................................52 VII. GEOLOGY AND SOILS ............................................................................................................53 VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ...........................................................................................57 IX. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS .......................................................................61 X. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY ................................................................................65 XI. LAND USE AND PLANNING ..................................................................................................72 XII. MINERAL RESOURCES ...........................................................................................................74 XIII. NOISE .........................................................................................................................................76 XIV. POPULATION AND HOUSING ...............................................................................................80 XV. PUBLIC SERVICES ...................................................................................................................82 XVI. RECREATION ............................................................................................................................84 XVII. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC ................................................................................................85 XVIII. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................87 XIX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS ....................................................................................92 XX. WILDFIRE ..................................................................................................................................94 SECTION 5.0 - AGENCY COORDINATION .................................................................................................98 SECTION 6.0 - REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................99

List of Tables
Table 1. Required Permits, Reviews and Approvals............................................................................................7 Table 2. SMAQMD Thresholds of Significance .................................................................................... ........25 Table 3. Attainment at Project Location ............................................................................................................28 Table 4. Maximum Daily Average Construction Emissions and Local Thresholds of Significance .................29 ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT iii
Table 5. Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats ..................................................................................................43 Table 6. Soils Types in the Project area .............................................................................................................55 Table 7. Right-of-Way Needs within the Project Area ......................................................................................72 Table 8. Noise Area 1 Exterior Noise Standards ...............................................................................................76 Table 9. Population Density and Associated Ambient Noise Levels .................................................................77 Table 10. Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels .................................................................................78 Table 11. Demographics ....................................................................................................................................80 List of Figures
Figure 1. Project Vicinity .....................................................................................................................................2 Figure 2. Project Location ....................................................................................................................................3 Figure 3. Project Features ....................................................................................................................................4 Figure 4: Zoning Districts ....................................................................................................................................9 Figure 5. Land Use Designations .......................................................................................................................10 Figure 6. Waters and Vegetation Communities .................................................................................................36 Figure 7. Project Impacts ...................................................................................................................................40 Figure 8. Citrus Heights Community-wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Baseline (2005) .................................58 Figure 9. FEMA Flood Zones ............................................................................................................................70

List of Appendices
Appendix A: Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum
Appendix B: Air Quality Technical Memorandum
Appendix C: Natural Environment Study
Appendix D: Native American Consultation
Appendix E: Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment
Appendix F: Water Quality Technical Memorandum
Appendix G: Community Impact Assessment Memorandum
Appendix H: Noise Technical Memorandum
Appendix I: Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Appendix J: Public Comments Received

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 1 INTRODUCTION
This Initial Study with Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was prepared for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project (Project). The Project proposes to construct a 0.5- mile addition to the planned 16-mile Creek Corridor Trail Project (CCTP).

The Project is located west of Sylvan Road within the City of Citrus Heights in Sacramento County, California, within the Citrus Heights U.S. 7.5-minute Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle, in Sacramento County, specifically in Sections 17, 18, 19, and 20, Township 10 North, Range 7 East. The Project will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road (Figure 1. Project Vicinity and Figure 2. Project Location).

Proposed facilities include a paved trail, a new prefabri cated bridge across the unnamed creek tributary, solar lighting, bank protection along a segment of Arcade Creek, and an at-grade signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road (Figure 3. Project Features). Construction activities will involve grading to achieve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant slopes, installing the creek crossing, paving the trail, erecting the solar lighting, constructing bank protection, and adding pedestrian signal infrastructure with minor utility adjustments as needed.

The City of Citrus Heights (City) is the California En vironmental Quality Act (CEQA) lead for this Project.

This IS/MND relies on CEQA Guidelines Section 15064 in its determination of the significance of environmental effects. According to Section 15064, the finding as to whether a project may have one or more significant effects shall be based on substantial eviden ce in the record, and that controversy alone, without substantial evidence of a significant effect, does not trigger the need for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR).

PROJECT BACKGROUND
Purpose and Need
The purpose of this Project is to construct one of the several planned segments of the CCTP by replacing dirt and narrow concrete paths with an ADA-compliant Class I multi-use trail. This trail extension is needed to enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, provide a safe recreational facility, and improve access through the Arcade Creek greenbelt.

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ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 5 CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS

INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
CEQA requires the Lead Agency to examine the effects of a project on the physical conditions that exist within the area that would be affected by the project. CEQA also requires a discussion of any inconsistency between the proposed Project and applicable general plans and regional plans.

An inconsistency between a proposed project and an adopted plan for land use development in a community would not constitute a physical change in the environment. When a project diverges from an adopted plan, however, it may affect planning in the community regarding infrastructure and services, and the new demands generated by the project may result in later physical changes in response to the project.

In the same manner, the fact that a project brings new people or demand for housing to a community does not, by itself, change the physical conditio ns. An increase in population may, however, generate changes in retail demand or demand for governmental services, and the demand for housing may generate new activity in residential development. Physical environmental impacts that could result from implementing a proposed project are discussed in the appropriate technical sections.

This section of the initial study identifies the applicable land use designations, plans and policies, and permissible densities and intensities of use, and discusses any inconsistencies between these plans and the proposed project. This section also discusses agricultural resources and the effect of the proposed project on these resources.

For the purposes of this document, the City of Citrus Heights General Plan EIR (CCHGP EIR) (Citrus Heights 2011b) was referenced.

SECTION 1.0 - BACKGROUND

1. Project Title: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project

2. Lead Agency: City of Citrus Heights
General Services Department
6360 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights, CA 95621

3. Contact Person: Daniel Kehrer, Principal Civil Engineer General Services Department
6360 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Phone: (916) 727-4904
E-mail: [email protected]

4. Project Location: The Project is located in the City and will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road. The Project lies within the Citrus Heights USGS 7.5- minute quadrangle, in Sacramento County, specifically in Section 26, Township 10 North, Range 6 East.

5. Applicant: City of Citrus Heights

6. General Plan: CCHGP EIR (Citrus Heights 2011b).

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 6 7. Zoning: The Project area occurs within several different zoning districts including “RD-5” Low Density Residential, “RD- 20” Medium Density Residential, “SPA” Special Planning Area (Figure 4. Zoning Districts).

8. Description of Project: The City proposes to construct a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16-mile CCTP as part of the Project. The Project is funded through the federal Carbon Reduction Program and therefore requires compliance with both the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and
CEQA. The lead agency for CEQA
compliance is the City of Citrus Heights and the federal lead agency for NEPA compliance is the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) under delegation from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

The Project is located in the City and will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road. The proposed alignment begins south of the Walmart property boundary and proceeds east through the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, curving south around Walmart’s water quality detention basin. The alignment continues north, crossing a tributary of Arcade Creek, and traverses along the south side of the Huntington Square Apartments complex prior to connecting to Sylvan Road.

The alignment terminates east of Sylvan Road at the location of a planned future trail extension segment from Sylvan Road to Mariposa Avenue. The Project has independent utility and would function as a stand -alone improvement.

Construction activities will involve grading to achieve ADA-compliant slopes, installing the creek crossing, paving the trail, erecting the solar lighting, constructing bank protection, and adding pedestrian signal infrastructure with minor utility adjustments as needed.

To accommodate construction, right -of-way (ROW) acquisitions will be required from several parcels. These include a permanent easement and permit to enter (PTE) from the Sunrise Recreation & Park District and a temporary construction easement (TCE) from Walmart. An existing trail easement exists across the Huntington Square Apartments property and there is potential for this permanent easement to be modified to best incorporate the trail alignment with the physical site features.

Construction access will be provided primarily through the Walmart parking lot under a TCE, as well as a PTE fo r access from the Huntington Square Apartments parcel. These provisions will allow safe and efficient construction of the trail and its associated improvements.

Purpose and Need
The purpose of this Project is to construct one of the several planned segments of the CCTP by replacing dirt and narrow concrete paths with an ADA- compliant Class I multi -use trail. This trail extension is needed to enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, provide a safe recreational facility, and improve access through the Arcade Creek greenbelt.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 7 Anticipated Construction Equipment

Typical construction equipment would include the following:

x Crane
x Earthmover
x Dump truck
x Concrete mixer
x Generator
x Paver
x Jackhammer
x Pile driver

The highest construction-related noise levels would be for pile driving (up to 90 A-weighted decibels (dBA) at a distance of 50 feet) involved in installation of the bridge supports for the creek overcrossing structure and for jackhammering (90 dBA at a distance of 50 feet) involved in removing the existing concrete pathways on the apartment complex property . All construction work for the Project will comply with the City Municipal Code and Caltrans Standard Specifications for noise control.

Utilities

The following utilities are present within the Project area:
x AT&T
x Citrus Heights Water District
x Cogent Communications
x Comcast
x Sacramento Area Sewer District
x Level 3/Lumen
x PG&E
x SMUD

Utility coordination may be required for a few utilities; however, services will not be disrupted.

Permits

The permits, reviews and approvals listed below in Table 1 . Required Permits, Reviews and Approvals are required for Project construction.

Table 1. Required Permits, Reviews and Approvals
Responsible Agency Permit/Approval Status
Regional Water
Quality Control
Board (RWQCB)
National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) General
Permit 2022-0057-DWQ
for Storm Water Discharges
Associated with
Will be Obtained
Prior to
Construction.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 8 Construction Activity
State Water Quality
Control Board
(SWQCB)
Section 401 Certification Will be Obtained
Prior to
Construction.

California
Department of Fish
and Wildlife
(CDFW)
1602 Streambed Alteration
Agreement
Will be Obtained
Prior to
Construction.

U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE)
Section 404 Permit Will be Obtained
Prior to
Construction.

City of Citrus
Heights
Tree Removal Permit Will be Obtained
Prior to
Construction.

Coordination Efforts:

The proposed Project area exceeds one acre, therefore a NPDES 402 General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with construction activity will be obtained prior to construction.

The Project will result in temporary impacts to a total of 0.10 acre of waters of the U.S. and state (Arcade Creek and its tributary), as well as approximately

0.01 acre of permanent impacts. Prior to
construction, the City will obtain a
Section 401 Certification, a Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement, and a non-notifying Section 404 Nationwide Permit.

Lastly, prior to construction, a t ree permit will be obtained for all protected trees that will be removed by the Project.

9. Surrounding Land Uses
and Setting:

Existing land use designations within and in the vicinity of the Project area include General Commercial (Costco and Walmart), Open Space (Arcade Creek and Stock Ranch Nature Preserve), low density residential, and medium density residential
(Figure 5. Land Use Designations).

ITEM 9
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ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 11 SECTION 2.0 – ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTED The Initial Study is also intended to assess whether any environmental effects of the Project are susceptible to substantial reduction or avoidance by the choice of specific revisions in the Project, by the imposition of conditions, or by other means [15152(b)(2)] of CEQA Guidelines. If such revisions, conditions, or other means are identified, they will be identified as mitigation measures.

This Initial Study relies on State CEQA Guidelines 15064 and 15604.4 in its determination of the significance of environmental effects. According to 15064, the findings as to whether a project may have one or more significant effects shall be based on substantial eviden ce in the record, and that controversy alone, without substantial evidence of a significant effect, does not trigger the need for an EIR.

This proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) is a subsequent environmental document that tiers off the General Plan Program EIR, therefore impacts that were adequately addressed in the CCHGP EIR do not need to be repeated in this proposed MND.

The Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration is a subsequent environmental document to the General Plan EIR. As such, this MND incorporates all applicable mitigation measures adopted with the Final EIR for the General Plan. The following is a summary of additional mitigation measures that were not included in the General Plan EIR. These measures, along with applicable measures from the General Plan EIR that are listed in Section 4.0, will be adopted in a Mitigati on, Monitoring, and Reporting Plan for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Proposed MND.

CCHGP EIR MITIGATION MEASURES INCORPORATED WITHIN THE PROPOSED PROJECT The following are additional mitigation measures applicable to the proposed Project that were not included within the CCHGP EIR:

Mitigation Measure 4.7-7: Discovery of Potential Paleontological Resources If potential paleontological resources are detected by construction workers or City staff during construction of future land uses, work shall stop immediately, and consultation is required to avoid further impacts. Actions after work stoppage will be designed to avoid significant impacts to the greatest extent feasible. These measures could include, but are not limited to, construction wo rker personnel education, c onsultation with a qualified paleontologist, coordination with experts on resource recovery and curation of specimens, and/or other measures considered appropriate after further consultation.

ADDITIONAL MITIGATION MEASURES INCORPORATED WITHIN THE PROPOSED

PROJECT
The following are additional mitigation measures applicable to the proposed Project that were not included within the CCHGP EIR:

Aesthetics
VIS-1: Aesthetic treatments on the new paved trail and prefabricated bridge over Arcade Creek will be consistent with other trails and bridges along the CCTP.

VIS-2: Lighting along the trail will be downcast to minimize glare. The Project’s lighting design must be consistent with the City Citrus Heights lighting guidelines and standards.

Air Quality
AQ-1: Implement Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Basic and Enhanced Construction Emission Control Practices to Reduce Fugitive Dust.

The implementing agency will require, as a standard or specification of their contract, the construction contractor(s) to implement basic and enhanced control measures to reduce construction- ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 12 related fugitive dust. Although the following measures are outlined in the SMAQMD’s CEQA guidelines, they are required for the entirety of the construction area. The implementing agency will ensure through contract provisions and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures before and during construction and doc uments compliance with the adopted mitigation measures.
x Water exposed surfaces two times daily. Exposed surfaces include (but are not limited to) soil piles, graded areas, unpaved parking areas, staging areas, and access roads. x Cover or maintain at least 2 feet of freeboard space on haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material on the site. Any haul trucks that will be traveling along freeways or major roadways should be covered.
x Use wet power vacuum street sweepers to remove any visible trackout mud or dirt onto adjacent public roads at least once a day. Use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. x Limit vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour. x All trail, and curb/sidewalk paving should be completed as soon as possible.

The following practices describe exhaust emission control from diesel powered fleets working at a construction site. California regulations limit idling from both on-road and off-road diesel-powered equipment. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) enforces idling limitations and compliance with diesel fleet regulations.
x Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to 3 minutes. Provide clear signate that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site.
x Provide current certificate(s) of compliance for CARB’s In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation [California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Sections 2449 and 2449.1]. For more information contact CARB at 877-593-6677, [email protected], or www.arb.ca.gov/doors/compliance_cert1.html.

Biological Resources
BIO-1: Every individual working on the Project must attend a biological awareness training session conducted by the Project biologist. This training program will include information regarding the sensitive habitats and an overview of special status wildlife species that may be encountered within the work area. During biological awareness training, construction personnel will be briefed on topics including, but not limited to, the protected status of valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB) and northwestern pond turtle (NWPT), as well as the need to protect elderberry shrubs, the host plant of VELB.

BIO-2: Prior to the start of construction activities, the Proj ect limits adjacent to the Arcade Creek, the Arcade Creek tributary and the riparian woodland habitat will be marked with flagging, staking, or high visibility fencing to ensure construction will not further encroach into adjacent sensitive resources.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 13 x All construction areas will be properly protected to prevent excess erosion, sedimentation, and water pollution.
x All vehicle and equipment fueling/maintenance will be conducted outside of any surface waters and/or sensitive habitat.
x Equipment used in and around jurisdictional waters must be in good working order and free of dripping or leaking contaminants.
x Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic life shall be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering jurisdictional waters. x All erosion control measures, and storm water c ontrol measures will be properly maintained until the site has returned to a pre-construction state. x All construction materials will be hauled off-site after completion of construction.

BIO-4: Permanent effects to stream channel and riparian woodland habitat will be provided compensatory mitigation to result in no net loss of habitat, at an agency-approved mitigation ratio via one of the following compensatory mitigation options:
x payment of an in-lieu fee to an agency-approved mitigation site, x compensatory off-site mitigation at an agency-approved mitigation site, x compensatory on-site mitigation, or
x a combination of the above compensatory mitigation options.

BIO-5: Native vegetation removal will not exceed what is shown on the plans without prior approval from the Project biologist. If trees will be trimmed rather than removed, trimming must comply with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 pruning standards and must not:
x leave branch stubs
x make unnecessary heading cuts
x cut off the branch collar (not make a flush cut)
x top or lion’s tail trees (stripping a branch from the inside leaving foliage just at the ends) x remove more than 25 percent of the foliage of a single branch x remove more than 25 percent of the total tree foliage in a single year x damage other parts of the tree during pruning
x use wound paint
x climb the tree with climbing spikes
BIO-6: Following the completion of construction, all temporary effects to riparian woodland, annual grassland and oak woodland habitat will be recontoured and re-seeded at a 1:1 ratio, to allow for the habitat to return to its previous function. Tree removal will follow final plans and specifications, and any deviation must be approved by a Project biologist. All temporarily disturbed areas will be seeded with a Project biologist-approved native seed mix. Any trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for through replanting or other methods in coordination with CDFW and the City of Citrus Heights.

BIO-7: A focused rare plant survey will be conducted within the Project area prior to the start of construction.

If rare plants are discovered during pre-construc tion surveys but can be reasonably avoided, an ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 14 Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) fence will be installed to protect the specimens in place.

If a special status plant specimen is present within the Project area and cannot be fully avoided, the Project biologist will relocate individual(s) and/or collect seeds to ensure the continued existence of the local population. Area of relocation or re-seeding will be at the discretion of the Project biologist but will be located within suitable habitat and within the same watershed of the Project, preferably at a location that is protected in perpetuity.

Within 1 week of the nesting bird survey, all vegetated areas that are designated for removal must be cleared by the contractor or a supplemental nesting bird survey is required.

The contractor must immediately stop work in the buffer area until the appropriate buffer is established and is prohibited from conducting work that could disturb the birds (as determined by the Project Biologist and in coordination with wildlife agencies) in the buffer area until a Project Biologist determines the young have fledged. A reduced no-work buffer can be established if determined appropriate by the Project Biologist, and will consider various factors including species of bird, location of nest, stage of nest, existing environment, and type of active work.

BIO-9: During the spring/summer season prior to construction the Project biologist must conduct pre- construction Swainson’s hawk protocol-level surveys within the Project area plus a 0.25-mile buffer in accordance with CDFW’s guide for Swainson’s Hawk Technical Advisory Committee. Pre- construction surveys will determine if active nests are present within the Project area or within 0.25 mile of Project activities. If an active nest is discovered within the survey area the Project biologist will determine the appropriate avoidance strategies (e.g., monitoring, no-work buffers, work windows, temporary sound/noise barriers, etc.) to avoid take of the nest and will coordinate with CDFW as needed.

BIO-10: To avoid impacts to western pond turtles, the Project biologist will conduct a pre-construction survey of the aquatic and upland habitats within the Project area. Surveys will be conducted no more than 24 hours prior to onset of construction. If a western pond turtle is spotted within an active work area the Project Biologist will be contacted, and work activities will immediately cease within 100 feet of the turtle. Work will not recommence until the turtle has left the Project site on its own volition. In addition, if western pond turtle nests are detected with in or adjacent to the Project area, the Project biologist will mark the nests with high-visibilit y flagging or fencing and establish a 25-foot no- disturbance buffer around each nest to prevent di sturbance until hatching occurs or the biologist determines the nest is no longer at risk.

BIO-11: To prevent the inadvertent entrapment of NWPT, all excavated, steep-walled holes or trenches more than 3 inches wide and 1 foot deep will be inspected for NWPT then covered at the close of each working day by plywood or similar materials. If it is not feasible to cover an excavation, one or more escape ramps constructed of earthen fill or wood ≥ 6 inches wide shall be installed. Before such holes or trenches are filled, they must be thoroughly inspected by the biologist for trapped NWPT.

BIO-12: Prior to arrival at the Project site and prior to le aving the Project site, construction equipment that may contain invasive plants and/or seeds will be cleaned to reduce the spreading of noxious weeds.

BIO-13: All food-related trash must be disposed into closed containers and must be removed from the Project area daily. Construction personnel must not feed or otherwise attract wildlife to the Project area.

BIO-14: The contractor must not apply rodenticide or herbicide within the Project area during construction.

BIO-15: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife will be allowed to leave ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 15 the construction area unharmed.

Cultural Resources
CR-1: If previously unidentified cultural materials are unearthed during construction, it is Caltrans’ policy that work be halted in that area until a qualified archaeologist can assess the significance of the find.

Additional archaeological survey would be needed if project limits are extended beyond the present survey limits.

CR-2: Section 5097.94 of the Public Resources Code (PRC ) and Section 7050.5 of the California Health and Safety Code protect Native American burials, skeletal remains and grave goods, regardless of age and provide method and means for the appropriate handling of such remains. If human remains are encountered, all ground disturbance within a 100-ft radius must stop and the county coroner should be notified immediately. At the same time, an archaeologist should be contacted to evaluate the situation and Caltrans Professionally Qualified Staff (PQS) should be contacted. If the human remains are of Native American origin, the coroner must notify the Native American Heritage Commission within 24 hours of such identification. CEQA details steps to be taken if human burials are of Native American origin.

Greenhouse Gases
CC-1: The implementing agency will require through construction contract terms and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures and implements all applicable SMAQMD best management practices for reducing construction-related Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.

Documentation will be provided to the implementing agency on a weekly basis. The contract provisions and specifications will authorize the implementing agency to sanction contractors for non‐compliance.

The implementing agency will consult SMAQMD prior to construction about the most current recommended construction best management practices and will adopt those practices. Practices include the following:
x Improve fuel efficiency from construction equipment:
o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to no more than 3 minutes. Provide clear signage that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site.
o Maintain all construction equipment in proper working condition according to manufacturer’s specifications. The equipment must be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition before it is operated.
o Train equipment operators in proper use of equipment, including limiting idling time, minimizing warm-up time, performing routine maintenance, and optimizing equipment use. o Avoid using equipment that is larger than the job requires. o Use equipment with new technologies (e.g., repowered engines, electric drivetrains). x Perform on-site material hauling with trucks equipped with on-road engines (if the air districts or CARB determine them to emit less than the off-road engines). x Use alternative fuels for generators at construction sites, rather than gasoline or diesel (e.g., propane or solar), or use electrical power.
x Use a CARB-approved low-carbon fuel for construction equipment. (NOx emissions from the use of low-carbon fuel must be reviewed and increases mitigated.) x Encourage and provide carpools, shuttle vans, and transit passes for construction worker commutes.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 16 x Reduce electricity use in the construction office by using compact fluorescent bulbs, powering off computers every day, and using the most efficient heating and cooling units available. x Recycle or salvage non-hazardous construction and demolition debris (goal of at least 75% by weight) to avoid landfill disposal.
x Use locally sourced or recycled materials for construction materials (goal of at least 20% based on costs for building materials, and based on volume for trail, sidewalk and curb materials). Wood products utilized should be certified through a sustainable forestry program. x Minimize the amount of concrete for paved surfaces or utilize a low carbon concrete option. x Produce concrete on-site if determined to be less emissive than transporting ready mix. x Use Smartway certified trucks for deliveries and equipment transport. x Develop a plan to efficiently use water for adequate dust control.

Hazards and Hazardous Material
HM-1: To avoid impacts from pavement striping during construction it is recommended that removal requirements for yellow striping and pavement mark ing materials be performed in accordance with Caltrans Standard Special Provision 14-11.07 REMOVE YELLOW TRAFFIC STRIPE AND PAVEMENT MARKING WITH HAZARDOUS WASTE RESIDUE.

HM-2: Should any previously unknown hazardous waste/material be encountered during construction, the procedures outlined in Caltrans Hazards Procedures for Construction shall be followed.

Hydrology/Water Quality
WQ-1: The proposed project will require a NPDES General Construction Permit for Discharges of storm water associated with construction activities (Construction General Permit 2022-0057-DWQ). As part of this Permit requirement, a SWPPP shall be prepared prior to construction consistent with the requirements of the RWQCB. This SWPPP will incorporate all applicable BMPs to ensure that adequate measures are taken during construction to minimize impacts to water quality.

WQ-2: To conform with water quality requirements, the SWPPP must include the following:
x Vehicle maintenance, staging and storing equipmen t, materials, fuels, lubricants, solvents, and other possible contaminants must be a minimum of 50 feet from surface waters. Any necessary equipment washing must occur where the water cannot flow into surface waters. x The project specifications will require the contractor to operate under an approved spill prevention and clean-up plan;
x Construction equipment will not be operated in flowing water; x Construction work must be conducted according to site-specific construction plans that minimize the potential for sediment input to surface waters;
x Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic life must be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering surface waters; x Equipment used in and around surface waters must be in good working order and free of dripping or leaking contaminants; and,
x Any concrete rubble, asphalt, or other debris from construction must be taken to an approved disposal site.

WQ-3: Prior to the start of construction activities, the project limits in proximity to jurisdictional waters must ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 17 be marked with high visibility ESA fencing or staking to ensure construction will not further encroach into jurisdictional waters.

WQ-4: Contract specifications will include the following BMPs, where applicable, to reduce erosion during construction:
x Existing vegetation will be protected in place where feasible to provide an effective form of erosion and sediment control;
x As a permanent BMP, slope roughening by equipment tracking will be implemented to create unevenness on bare soil. Surface roughening re duces erosion potential by decreasing runoff velocities, trapping sediment, and increasing water infiltration.

Noise
NOI-1: To minimize the construction-generated noise, th e contractor shall follow the Caltrans Standard Specifications for noise control and Chapter 34, Article III, Sec. 34-88(5) of the City of Citrus Heights Municipal Code, which requires the following:
x Only operate construction equipment or run the equipment engines between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
x When an unforeseen or unavoidable condition occurs during a construction project and the nature of the project necessitates that work in progress be continued until a specific phase is completed, the contractor shall be allowed to continue work after 8:00 p.m. and to operate machinery and equipment necessary until completion of the specific work in progress can be brought to conclusion under conditions which will not jeopardize inspection acceptance or create undue financial hardships for the contractor.

Public Services
LU-1: An outreach and engagement plan will be developed to ensure potential security concerns from residents of the Huntington Square Apartments are identified and addressed prior to construction.

Traffic
LU-2: A Traffic Management Plan will be prepared to identify ways to minimize impacts to the public during partial road closures anticipated during construction.

Tribal Cultural Resources
TCR-1 Unanticipated Discoveries of TCRs
If any suspected TCRs or resources of cultural significance to UAIC, including but not limited to features, anthropogenic/cultural soils, cultural bel ongings or objects (artifacts), shell, bone, shaped stones or bone, or ash/charcoal deposits are discovered by any person during construction activities including ground disturbing activities, all work shall pause immediately within 100 feet of the find, or an agreed upon distance based on the project area and nature of the find. Work shall cease in and within the immediate vicinity of the find regardless of whether the construction is being actively monitored by a Tribal Monitor, cultural resources specialist, or professional archaeologist.

A Tribal Representative and the Lead Agency shall be immediately notified, and the Tribal Representative in coordination with the Lead Agen cy shall determine if the find is a TCR (PRC Section 21074) and the Tribal Representative shall make recommendations for further evaluation and treatment as necessary.

TCR-2: Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Training
Cultural Awareness Training will be developed and provided to all personnel working in the Project area.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 18 SECTION 3.0 - ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED

The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this Project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.

Aesthetics Agriculture / Forestry Resources Air Quality Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology /Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards & Hazardous Materials Hydrology / Water Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population / Housing Public Services
Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities / Service Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance

Based on the analysis presented in this Initial Study, it has been determined that for resource areas not checked above, the proposed Project would not result in any significant impacts that cannot be mitigated to a less-than- significant level or are not sufficiently addressed by the CCHGP EIR. This Initial Study has concluded that the Project would incrementally contribute to, but not exceed, certain significant impacts previously identified in the CCHGP EIR, and that for such impacts, no new mitigation measures, other than those previously identified in the CCHGP EIR, are required.

On the basis of this initial evaluation:

I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.

I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the Proposed Project have been made by or agreed to by the applicant.

A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.

I find that the proposed project MAY have a "Potentially Significant Impact" or "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlie r analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.

I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.

Signature

Date

Name

City of Citrus Heights
Organization
ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 19 SECTION 4.0 - ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
I. AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public
Resources Code Section 21099, would the
project:

a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
vista? X
b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including,
but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and
historic buildings along a scenic highway?
X
c. In nonurbanized areas, substantially degrade the
existing visual character or quality of public
views of the site and its surroundings? (Public
views are those that are experienced from
publicly accessible vantage point). If the project is
in an urbanized area, would the project conflict
with applicable zoning and other regulations
governing scenic quality?
X
d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare
which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Dokken 2026a, Appendix A), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
CEQA establishes that it is the policy of the state to take all action necessary to provide the people of the state “with…enjoyment of aesthetic, natural, scenic an d historic environmental qualities (CA PRC Section 21001[b]).”
Chapter 106.39 of the Citrus Heights Zoning Code provi des regulations for the protection, preservation, and maintenance of protected trees. The ordinance protects native oak trees, oak woodlands, trees of historic or cultural significance, groves and stands of mature trees, and mature trees associated with development proposals.

Environmental Setting
The Project area is not located immediately adjacent to any state eligible scenic highways. Urban areas include Sylvan Road and commercial/residential development su rrounding the Project area. The Project is partially within the Stock Ranch Preserve and crosses through undeveloped, natural habitat associated with Arcade Creek.

Discussion

a. No Impact. The CCHGP EIR states that there are limited areas in Citrus Heights that provide scenic vistas—they are long-range views of the Sierra Nevada range, which are generally blocked by ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 20 development and vegetation (Citrus Heights 2011b). As such, the proposed Project would not cause adverse effects on a scenic vista. No impact would occur.

b. No Impact. There are no state or locally designated scenic highways in the vicinity of the proposed Project. Sylvan Road is not a designated or eligible scenic highway. Therefore, the proposed Project would not substantially damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway, and no impact would occur.

c. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project is located in the City of Citrus Heights, which is an urbanized area. The Project area occurs within several different zoning districts including “RD-5” Low Density Residential, “RD- 20” Medium Density Residential, “SPA” Special Planning Area (Citrus Heights 2026). The Project would construct a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16- mile CCTP. As such, the proposed Project would be consistent with the existing zoning. Additionally, per VIS-4, aesthetic treatments would be applied to all Project features to minimize visual impacts, ensuring that the Project would not conflict with regulations governing scenic quality, including the City of Citrus Heights Design Guidelines. With implementation of VIS-1, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

d. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project would install solar lighting along the trail. This lighting would be consistent with other segments of the trail system and is not anticipated to result in substantial new light and glare impacts as the lights will be downcast, per measure VIS-2.

Additionally, surrounding light from adjacent developed areas would still dominate the area. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
VIS-1: Aesthetic treatments on the new paved trail and prefabricated bridge over Arcade Creek will be consistent with other trails and bridges along the CCTP.

VIS-2: Lighting along the trail will be downcast to minimize glare. The Project’s lighting design must be consistent with the City Citrus Heights lighting guidelines and standards.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 21 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
II. AGRICULTURE / FORESTRY
RESOURCES - In determining whether
impacts to agricultural resources are
significant environmental effects, lead agencies
may refer to the California Agricultural Land
Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997)
prepared by the California Dept. of
Conservation as an optional model to use in
assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland.

In determining whether impacts to forest
resources, including timberland, are significant
environmental effects, lead agencies may refer
to information compiled by the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
regarding the state’s inventory of forest land,
including the Forest and Range Assessment
Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment
project; and forest carbon measurement
methodology provided in Forest Protocols
adopted by the California Air Resources
Board. Would the project:

a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of
the California Resources Agency, to non-
agricultural use?
X
b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use,
or a Williamson Act contract? X
c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 12220(g)), timberland
(as defined by Public Resources Code Section
4526), or timberland zoned Timberland
Production (as defined by Government Code
Section 51104(g))?
X
d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non-forest use? X
e. Involve other changes in the existing
environment, which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to
non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land
to non-forest use?
X

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 22 The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
State
Williamson Act/Land Conservation Act Contracts
The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, commonly known as the Williamson Act, was established based on numerous state legislative findings regarding the importance of agricultural lands in an urbanizing society.

Policies emanating from those findings include those that discourage premature and unnecessary conversion of agricultural land to urban uses and discourage discontinuous urban development patterns, which unnecessarily increase the costs of community services to community residents. The Williamson Act authorizes each county to establish an agricultural preserve. Land that is within the agricultural preserve is eligible to be placed under a contract between the property owner and county that would restrict the use of the land to agriculture in exchange for a tax assessment that is based on the yearly production yield. The contracts have a 9-year term that is automatically renewed each year, unless the property owner or county requests a non-renewal or the contract is cancelled.

Environmental Setting
Agricultural uses in Citrus Heights are limited to hobby farming and the keeping of animals in the more rural residential areas of the City, as long as these uses are in harmony with the character of these rural neighborhoods (Citrus Heights 2011b).

According to the California Important Farmland Finder, the Project site is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land (DOC 2026a). Additionally, there are no parcels currently under a Williamson Act contract within the City (Citrus Heights 2011b).

Discussion
a. No Impact. According to the California Important Farmland Finder, the Project site is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land (DOC 2026a). The Project site is not planned for or used for any agricultural purposes. Therefore, the Project would not convert farmland to non-agricultural use. No impact would occur.
b. No Impact. The Project area occurs within several different zoning districts including “RD-5” Low Density Residential, “RD-20” Medium Density Resi dential, “SPA” Special Planning Area (Citrus Heights 2026). Additionally, there are no parcels currently under a Williamson Act contract within the City (Citrus Heights 2011b). Therefore, the Project would not conflict with the existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract. No impact would occur. c. No Impact. There are no parcels zoned for or as forest lands or timberland in the Project limits. No impact would occur.
d. No Impact. There is no forest land in the Project limits. Th e Project will not convert forest land to non-forest use. No impact would occur.
e. No Impact. As outlined in questions a) through d), impl ementation of the Project would not result in conversion of farmland or forest land to a non-agri cultural or non-forest use. Therefore, no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 23 Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 24 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
III. AIR QUALITY - Where available, the
significance criteria established by the
applicable air quality management or air
pollution control district may be relied upon to
make the following determinations. Would the
project:

a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan? X
b. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase
of any criteria pollutant for which the project
region is non-attainment under an applicable
federal or state ambient air quality standard?
X
c. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations? X
d. Result in other emissions (such as those leading to
odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of
people?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Air Quality Technical Memorandum (Dokken 2026b, Appendix B ), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
Federal and State
Clean Air Act
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is resp onsible for addressing national and interstate air pollution issues and setting policies. The EPA sets nationa l vehicle and stationary source emission standards, oversees approval of all State Implementation Plans, provides research and guidance for air pollution programs, and sets National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), also known as federal standards. There are federal standards for the following criteria air pollutants, which were identified from provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA) of 1970:
x Ozone;
x Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5);
x Nitrogen dioxide;
x Carbon monoxide (CO); and
x Lead; and
x Sulfur dioxide.

Federal standards were set to protect public health, incl uding that of sensitive individuals; thus, the standards continue to change as more medical research is available regarding the health effects of the criteria pollutants.

Primary federal standards are the levels of air quality necessary, with an adequate margin of safety, to protect ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 25 the public health, per 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 50.2.

State Implementation Plan
A State Implementation Plan is a document prepared by each state describing existing air quality conditions and measures that would be followed to attain and maintain Federal standards. The State Implementation Plan for the State of California is administered by CARB, which has overall responsibility for Statewide air quality maintenance and air pollution prevention. California’s State Implementation Plan incorporates individual Federal attainment plans for regional air districts—air di stricts prepare their federal attainment plans, which are sent to the CARB to be approved and incorporated in to the California State Implementation Plan. Federal attainment plans include the technical foundation for understanding air quality (e.g., emission inventories and air quality monitoring), control measures and strategies, and enforcement mechanisms.

Federal and State Ambient Air Quality Standards
California and the federal government have established standards for several different pollutants. For some pollutants, separate standards have been set for different measurement periods. Most standards have been set to protect public health. For some pollutants, standards ha ve been based on other values (such as protection of crops, protection of materials, or avoidance of nuisance conditions).

Local
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District SMAQMD is the primary agency responsible for planni ng to meet federal and state ambient air quality standards in Sacramento County and the larger Sacramento Ozone Nonattainment Area.

The SMAQMD operates monitoring stations in Sacramento County, develops rules, regulations, and CEQA thresholds for stationary sources and equipment, prep ares emissions inventory and air quality management planning documents, and conducts source testing and inspections. Table 2. SMAQMD Thresholds of Significance depicts the SMAQMD’s Thresholds of Significance for Projects subject to CEQA (SMAQMD 2020). All projects are subject to the adopted SMAQMD rules and regulations.

Table 2. SMAQMD Thresholds of Significance
Construction Phase Operational Phase
Mass Emission Thresholds
Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) (Ozone
precursor) 85 pounds/day 65 pounds/day
Reactive Organic Gases
(ROG) (VOC) (Ozone
precursor)
None. 65 pounds/day
Particulate Matter (PM10)
Zero (0). If all feasible best
available control technology
(BACT) and BMPs are
applied, then 80 pounds/day
and 14.6 tons/year.

Zero (0). If all feasible BACT and
BMPs are applied, then 80
pounds/day and 14.6 tons/year.

Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Zero (0). If all feasible BACT
and BMPs are applied, then
82 pounds/day and 15
tons/year.

Zero (0). If all feasible BACT and
BMPs are applied, then 82
pounds/day and 15 tons/year.

Concentration Thresholds (Based on the California Ambient Air Quality Standard, identical threshold for both phases of development)
Carbon Monoxide (CO) 20 ppm 1-hour standard (23 mg/m3); 9 ppm 8-hour (10 mg/m3) ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 26 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) 0.18 ppm 1-hour standard (339 (339 μg/m3); 0.03 ppm Annual Arithmetic Mean (57 μg/m3)
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 0.25 ppm 1-hour standard (665 μg/m3); 0.04 ppm 24-hour standard (105 μg/m3)
Lead 1.5 μg/m3 30-day average
Visibility Reducing Particles Extinction coefficient of 0.23 per kilometer - visibility of ten miles or more due to particles when relative humidity is less than 70 percent Sulfates 25 μg/m3 24-hour standard
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) 0.03 ppm (42 μg/m3) 1-hour standard Vinyl Chloride 0.01 ppm (26 μg/m3) 24-hour standard
Construction Phase Operational Phase
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Thresholds
GHG as Carbon dioxide
equivalent (CO2e) 1,100 metric tons/year
Demonstrate consistency with the
Climate Change Scoping Plan by
implementing applicable Best
Management Practices (BMP), or
equivalent on-site or off-site
mitigation.

The SMAQMD’s air quality management plans include control measures and strategies to be implemented to attain State and Federal ambient air quality standards in Sacramento County. The SMAQMD then implements these control measures as regulations to control or reduce criteria pollutant emissions from stationary sources or equipment. Applicable SMAQMD attainment plans include:
x An 8-Hour Ozone Attainment and Reasonable Further Progress Plan; and x Revised 8-Hour Ozone Attainment and Reasonable Further Progress Plan.

The 8-Hour Ozone Attainment and Reasonable Further Program Plan (CARB 2023) describes measures to be implemented by the air districts in the Sacramento Federal Nonattainment Area. This plan includes the information and analyses to fulfill the Federal Clean Air Act requirements for demonstrating reasonable further progress and attainment of the 8-hour ozone NAAQS for the Sacramento region. In addition, this plan establishes an updated emissions inventory projected for a 2032 attainment date, provides photochemical modeling results, proposes the implementation of reasona bly available control measures, and sets new motor vehicle emission budgets for transportation conformity purposes for the reasonable further progress milestone years and the 2032 attainment year. The emission reduct ion strategy is based on reductions in both ROG and NOx emissions.
2nd 10-Year PM10 Implementation/Maintenance Plan for Sacramento County On September 23, 2021, the SMAQMD Governing Board approved the PM 10 maintenance plan (SMAQMD 2023). This plan includes updated emission invent ories, demonstrates maintenance of the PM 10 standard, provides an updated control measure evaluation, and establishes new motor vehicle emissions budgets. The plan was submitted to the U.S. EPA for approval and the Final Rule was published on March 14, 2024, effective April 15, 2024.
2015 Triennial Report and Air Quality Plan Update
This plan is intended to comply with the requirements of the California Clean Air Act (CCAA) as related to bringing the region into compliance with the CAAQS for ozone. The SMAQMD has prepared several triennial progress reports that build upon the 1994 Sacramento Area Regional Ozone Attainment Plan. The 2015 ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 27 Triennial Report and Air Quality Plan Update is the most recent report. The triennial progress report includes a current emission inventory and projected future inventories of ROG and NO x emissions in Sacramento County. The future inventories reflect population growth rates, travel, employment, industrial/commercial activities, and energy use, as well as controls imposed through local, State, and Federal emission reduction measures. The triennial report discusses rules that the SMAQMD has adopted during the previous three years, incentive programs that have been implemented, and other measures that would supplement those in the Ozone Attainment Plan to achieve the required five percent per year reduction required by the CCAA.

The SMAQMD also has several rules that relate to the proposed Project, which are summarized below.

Rule 201 – General Permit Requirements: Requires any Project that includes the use of certain equipment capable of releasing emissions to the atmosphere as part of Project operation to obtain a permit from the SMAQMD prior to operation of the equipment. The applicant, developer, or operator of a Project that includes an emergency generator, boiler, or heater should contact the SMAQMD to determine if a permit is required.

Portable construction equipment with an internal combustion engine with over 50 horsepower are required to have a SMAQMD permit or a CARB portable equipment registration.

Rule 401 – Ringelmann Chart: Prohibits individuals fro m discharging into the atmosphere from any single source of emissions whatsoever any air contaminant whose opacity exceeds certain specified limits.

Rule 402 – Nuisance: To protect the public health, Rule 402 prohibits any person from discharging such quantities of air contaminants that cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or to the public.

Rule 403 – Fugitive Dust: Requires a person to take every reasonable precaution not to cause or allow the emissions of fugitive dust from being airborne beyond the property line from which the emission originates, from construction, handling or storage activity, or any wrecking, excavation, grading, clearing of land or solid waste disposal operation.

Rule 453 – Cutback and Emulsified Asphalt Paving Materials: Asphalt paving operations that may be associated with implementation of a Project would be subject to Rule 453. This rule applies to the manufacture and use of cutback asphalt and emulsified asphalt for paving and maintenance operations.

Rule 902 – Asbestos: To protect the public health and th e environment, Rule 902 sets specific procedures to follow regarding handling, transport, and disposal of asbestos containing materials.

The SMAQMD’s Guide to Air Quality Assessment in Sacramento County also provides methods to analyze air quality impacts from plans and projects, including screen ing criteria, thresholds of significance, calculation methods, as well as mitigation measures that help assi st lead agencies in complying with the CEQA. These guidelines require that basic construction emission cont rol practices be implemented for emissions regardless of the significance determination.

Toxic Air Contaminants
A toxic air contaminant (TAC) is defined as an air polluta nt that may cause or contribute to an increase in mortality or serious illness, or that may pose a haza rd to human health. TACs ar e usually present in minute quantities in the ambient air; however, their high toxicity or health risk may pose a threat to public health even at low concentrations. The California Almanac of Emissions and Air Quality (CARB 2013) present the relevant concentration and cancer risk data for the ten TACs that pose the most substantial health risk in California based on available data. These TACs are as follows: acetalde hyde, benzene, 1.3-butadiene, carbon tetrachloride, hexavalent chromium, para-dichlorobenzene, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene, and diesel particulate matter (DPM).

Some studies indicate that DPM poses the greatest health risk among the TACs listed above. A 10-year research program (CARB 2024) demonstrated that DPM from dies el-fueled engines is a human carcinogen and that chronic (long-term) inhalation exposure to DPM poses a chronic health risk. In addition to increasing the risk of lung cancer, exposure to diesel exhaust can have other health effects. Diesel exhaust can irritate the eyes, ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 28 nose, throat, and lungs, and it can cause coughs, headaches, lightheadedness, and nausea. Diesel exhaust is a major source of fine particulate pollution as well, and stud ies have linked elevated particle levels in the air to increased hospital admissions, emergency room visits , asthma attacks, and premature deaths among those suffering from respiratory problems.

DPM differs from other TACs in that it is not a si ngle substance but a complex mixture of hundreds of substances. Although DPM is emitted by diesel-fueled, internal combustion engines, the composition of the emissions varies, depending on engine type, operating conditions, fuel composition, lubricating oil, and whether an emission control system is present. Unlike th e other TACs, however, no ambient monitoring data are available for DPM because no routine measurement method currently exists. The CARB has made preliminary concentration estimates based on a DPM exposure method. This method uses the CARB emissions inventory’s PM10 database, ambient PM10 monitoring data, and the results from several studies to estimate concentrations of DPM.

Odors
Odors are generally regarded as an annoyance rather th an a health hazard. However, manifestations of a person’s reaction to foul odors can range from psychological (e.g., emotional reaction) to physiological (e.g., nausea).

With respect to odors, the human nose is the sole sensin g device. The ability to detect odors is subjective and varies considerably among the population. Some individuals have the ability to smell very minute quantities of specific substances; others may not have the same sens itivity but may have sensitivities to odors of other substances. In addition, people may have different reactions to the same odor; an odor that is offensive to one person may be perfectly acceptable to another.

Environmental Setting
The Project is located in Citrus Heights, which falls within the Sacramento Valley Air Basin (SVAB). Air quality regulation in SVAB is administered by the SMAQMD. Table 3. Attainment at Project Location lists the state and federal attainment status for all regulated pollutants within the Project area.

Table 3. Attainment at Project Location
Criteria Pollutant
Attainment Status
State Federal
Ozone Non-attainment Non-attainment
PM10 Non-attainment Attainment
PM2.5 Attainment Non-attainment
CO Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
NO2 Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
SO2 Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Lead Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Visibility Reducing Particles Unclassified No Federal Standard Sulfates Attainment No Federal Standard
H2S Unclassified No Federal Standard
Source: Dokken 2026b

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 29 Discussion
a. Less Than Significant. In accordance with SMAQMD’s CEQA Guide, construction-generated NOX, PM10, and PM2.5, and operation-generated ROG and NOX (all ozone precursors) are used to determine consistency with the Ozone Attainment Plan. The Guide states (SMAQMD 2020):
“By exceeding the District’s mass emission thresholds for operational emissions of ROG, NOX, PM10, or PM2.5, the project would be considered to conflict with or obstruct implementation of the District’s air quality planning efforts.”
As shown in the discussion for question b) below, the Project’s construction-generated emissions of NOX, PM10, and PM 2.5 is below thresholds set by SMAQMD. Additionally, since the Project would construct a trail, it would not result in long-t erm operational emissions; thus, operation-generated emissions ROG and NOX would not exceed SMAQMD thresholds. The Project would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan and the impact would be less than significant.
b. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Sacramento County is currently designated as in “attainment” for all state and federal ambient ai r quality standards, except ozone (non-attainment status under state and federal), PM 10 (non-attainment status under State), and PM 2.5 (non-attainment status under federal). The current “non-attainment” status for ozone, PM10, and PM2.5 signifies that these pollutant concentrations have exceeded the established standards.

The SMAQMD’s CEQA Guide has established significance thresholds for emissions of PM 2.5 and PM10, and ozone precursors—ROG and NO x. The significance thresholds, expressed in pounds per day (lbs./day), listed in Table 4. Maximum Daily Average Construction Emissions and Local Thresholds of Significance below represent the SMAQMD’s current established thresholds of significance for use in the evaluation of air quality impacts associated with proposed land development projects. Thus, if the proposed Project’s emissions exceed the pollutant thresholds presented in Table 4, the Project would have the potential to result in significant effects to air quality and affect the attainment of federal and state Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Short-term increases in emissions would occur during construction. The construction period would be limited and temporary. According to SMAQMD’s CEQA Guide, construction-generated NOX and PM emissions shall be evaluated for significance under CEQA on a daily mass emission basis because they are pollutants of regional concern (SMAQMD 2020).

Construction emissions were estimated using the Caltrans 2021 Construction Emissions Tool (CAL- CET v1.0.2) (Appendix B). The emissions presented are based on the best information available at the time of calculations. The emissi ons represent the peak daily construction emissions that will be generated by construction of the proposed Project.

Table 4. Maximum Daily Average Construction Emissions and Local Thresholds of Significance Emissions Caltrans Construction
Emissions Tool Estimates
SMAQMD Construction Phase
Mass Emissions Thresholds
NOx 19.13 lbs/day 85 lbs/day
ROG (VOC) 2.82 lbs/day NONE
PM10 9.9 lbs/day Zero (0). If all feasible BACT/BMPs are applied, then 80 pounds/day and 14.6 tons/year
PM2.5 1.8 lbs/day Zero (0). If all feasible BACT/BMPs are applied, then 82 pounds/day and 15 tons/year
CO2e 195 tons/year (annual average) 1,100 metric tons/year Source: SMAQMD 2020

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 30 Table 4 provides the results of the Caltrans Construction Emissions Tool for the Project construction phase compared to SMAQMD thresholds of significance.

The Project would be well below emissions levels for NO X. The Project would generate minimal amounts of PM 10 and PM 2.5 based on the construction emissions mo del. With the implementation of measure AQ-1, impacts to air quality would be reduced fu rther. Lastly, there will be no long-term operational air quality emissions associated with the proposed Project. With implementation of AQ-1, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c. Less than Significant. SMAQMD defines sensitive receptors as facilities that house or attract children, the elderly, people with illnesses, or others who are especially sensitive to the effects of air pollutants or may experience adverse effects from unhealthful concentrations of air pollutants. Hospitals, clinics, schools, convalescent facilities, and residential areas are examples of sensitive receptors (SMAQMD 2020). The nearest sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the Project site include the apartment complexes and residential homes directly adjacent to the Project.

Construction activities are anticipated to involve the operation of diesel-powered equipment. In 1998, the CARB identified diesel exhaust as a TAC. Cancer health risks associated with exposures to diesel exhaust typically are associated with chronic expos ure, in which a 70-year exposure period often is assumed. Although elevated cancer rates can result from exposure periods of less than 70 years, acute exposure (i.e., exposure periods of 2 to 3 years) to diesel exhaust typically are not anticipated to result in an increased health risk because acute exposure typically does not result in exposure concentrations that would represent a health risk. Construction of the Project is anticipated to last approximately 6 months, with an estimated 131 working days assuming there will be 22 working days a month. Since construction activities are expected to occur well below the 70-year exposure period used in health risk assessments (i.e., 6 months/ 131 working days) health impacts associated with exposure to diesel exhaust from Project construction are anticipated to be less than significant. Additionally, emissions would be short-term and intermittent in nature, and therefore would not generate TAC emissions at high enough exposure concentrations to represent a health hazard. Therefore, construction of the proposed Project is not anticipated to result in an elevated cancer risk to exposed persons. Overall exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations from the proposed Project would be less than significant.
d. Less than Significant. While offensive odors rarely cause physical harm, they can be unpleasant, leading to annoyance and distress among the public and can generate citizen complaints to local governments and air districts. Project-related odor emissions would be limited to times when equipment would be utilized for construction and emission from equipment may be evident in the immediate surrounding area. Construction activities would be short-term and would not result in the creation of long-term objectionable odor because they would be quickly dispersed after equipment utilization.

Therefore, due to the short-term nature of the construction activities, combined with limited exposure to sensitive receptors, impacts associated with development of the Project are considered less than significant.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
AQ-1: Implement SMAQMD Basic and Enhanced Construction Emission Control Practices to Reduce Fugitive Dust.

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 31 ensure through contract provisions and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures before and during construction and doc uments compliance with the adopted mitigation measures.
x Water exposed surfaces two times daily. Exposed surfaces include (but are not limited to) soil piles, graded areas, unpaved parking areas, staging areas, and access roads. x Cover or maintain at least 2 feet of freeboard space on haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material on the site. Any haul trucks that will be traveling along freeways or major roadways should be covered.
x Use wet power vacuum street sweepers to remove any visible trackout mud or dirt onto adjacent public roads at least once a day. Use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. x Limit vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour. x All trail, and curb/sidewalk paving should be completed as soon as possible.

The following practices describe exhaust emission control from diesel powered fleets working at a construction site. California regulations limit idling from both on-road and off-road diesel-powered equipment. CARB enforces idling limitations and compliance with diesel fleet regulations. x Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to 3 minutes. Provide clear signate that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site.
x Provide current certificate(s) of compliance for CARB’s In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation [California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Sections 2449 and 2449.1]. For more information contact CARB at 877-593-6677, [email protected], or www.arb.ca.gov/doors/compliance_cert1.html.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 32 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
IV. BIOLOGICAL - Would the project:
a. 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 California Department of
Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
X
b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, and
regulations or by the California Department of
Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
X
c. Have a substantial adverse effect on state or
federally protected wetlands (including, but not
limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.)
through direct removal, filling, hydrological
interruption, or other means?
X
d. 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?
X
e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
X
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Natural Environment Study (Dokken 2026c, Appendix C), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
Federal
National Environmental Policy Act
NEPA provides an interdisciplinary framework for environmental planning by federal agencies and contains action-forcing procedures to ensure that federal agency decisions take environmental factors into account.

NEPA is applicable when a federal agency proposes an action, grants a permit, or agrees to fund or otherwise authorize any other entity to undertake an action that could possibly affect environmental resources. Caltrans is the designated NEPA lead agency for this Project acting under delegation from the FHWA.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 33 Federal Endangered Species Act
The Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) of 1973 (16 U.S.C. section 1531 et seq.) provides for the conservation of endangered and threatened species listed pursuant to Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. section 1533) and the ecosystems upon which they depend. These species and resources have been identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). One federally threatened species, valley elderberry longhorn beetle ( Desmocerus californicus dimorphus ; VELB), along with one federally proposed threatened species, northwestern pond turtle ( Actinemys marmorata ; NWPT), has potential to occur within the Project area.

Clean Water Act
The Clean Water Act (CWA) was enacted as an amendment to the Federal Water Pollutant Control Act of 1972, which outlined the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants to Waters of the U.S. The CWA serves as the primary federal law protecting the quality of the nation’s surface waters, including lakes, rivers, and coastal wetlands. The CWA empowers the U.S. EPA to set national water quality standards and effluent limitations and includes programs addressing both point source and nonpoint source pollution. Point source pollution originates or enters surface waters at a single, discrete location, such as an outfall structure or an excavation or construction site. Nonpoint source pollution originates over a broader area and includes urban contaminants in storm water runoff and sediment loading from upstream areas. The CWA operates on the principle that all discharges into the nation’s waters are unlawful unless they are specifically authorized by a permit; permit review is the CWA’s primary regulatory tool.

Section 401
The RWQCB has jurisdiction under Section 401 of the CWA and regulates any activity which may result in a discharge to surface waters. Typically, the areas subject to jurisdiction of the RWQCB coincide with waters of the U.S. including any wetlands. The RWQCB also asserts authority over “waters of the state” under wastewater discharge requirements (WDRs) pursuant to the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. The Project is located within the jurisdiction of the Central Valley RWQCB and would require a Water Quality Certification (WQC) prior to construction. WQCs are issued to applicants for a federal license or permit for activities that may result in a discharge into waters of the U.S., including but not limited to the discharge or dredged or fill material.

Section 402
The California SWRCB regulates construction projects that involve ground disturbance of one acre or greater.

These projects must obtain coverage under the SWRCB General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity (General Construction Permit). Operators of regulated construction sites are required to develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan; to implement sediment, erosion, and pollution prevention control measures; and to obtain coverage under the General Construction Permit.

Section 404
USACE regulates discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S. These waters include wetlands and non-wetland bodies of water that meet specific criteria, including a direct or indirect connection to interstate commerce. The USACE regulatory jurisdiction pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA is founded on a connection, or nexus, between the water body in question and interstate commerce. This connection may be direct (through a tributary system linking a stream channel with traditional navigable waters used in interstate or foreign commerce) or may be indirect (through a nexus identified in USACE regulations).

Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary, within the Project area, are jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and will require Section 404 permitting through the USACE.

Executive Order 11990 – Protection of Wetlands
The Executive Order (EO) 11990 established a national policy to avoid adverse impacts on wetlands whenever there is a practicable alternative. The U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) promulgated ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 34 DOT Order 5660.1A in 1978 to comply with this direction. On federally funded projects, impacts on wetlands must be identified. Alternatives that avoid wetlands must be considered. If wetland impacts cannot be avoided, then all practicable measures to minimize harm must be included. This must be documented in a specific Wetlands Only Practicable Alternative Finding.

An additional requirement is to provide early public involvement in projects affecting wetlands. FHWA provides technical assistance in the Guidance for Preparing and Processing Environmental and Section 4(f) Documents (Technical Advisory T 6640.8A) and reviews environmental documents for compliance.

Executive Order 13112 – Invasive Species
EO 13112 (signed February 3, 1999) directs all federal agencies to prevent and control introductions of invasive species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner. The EO and directives from the FHWA require consideration of invasive species in NEPA analyses, including their identification and distribution, their potential impacts, and measures to prevent or eradicate them.

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 was established to conserve and manage fishery resources found off the coast, as well as anadromous species and Continental Shelf fishery resources of the United States, by exercising (A) sovereign rights for the purposes of exploring, exploiting, conserving, and managing all fish within the exclusive economic zone established by Presidential Proclamation 5030, dated March 10, 1983, and (B) exclusive fishery management authority beyond the exclusive economic zone over such anadromous species, Continental Shelf fishery resources, and fishery resources in special areas.

State Regulations
California Environmental Quality Act
CEQA is a California state law designed to inform government decision-makers and the public about the potential, significant environmental effects of proposed activities and to identify measures to reduce these negative environmental impacts. The City is the CEQA lead agency for this Project.

California Endangered Species Act
The California Fish and Game (CFG) Code Section 2050, henceforth referred to as the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), requires CDFW to establish a list of endangered and threatened species (Section 2070) and to prohibit the incidental taking of any such listed species except as allowed by the Act (Sections 2080– 2089). In addition, CESA prohibits take of candidate species (under consideration for listing).

CESA also requires CDFW to comply with CEQA (Pub. Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) when evaluating incidental take permit applications (CFG Code Section 2081(b) and California Code Regulations, Title 14, section 783.0 et seq.), and the potential impacts the project or activity for which the application was submitted may have on the environment. CDFW’s CEQA obligations include consultation with other public agencies which have jurisdiction over the project or activity [California Code Regulations, Title 14, Section 783.5(d)(3)]. CDFW cannot issue an incidental take permit if issuance would jeopardize the continued existence of the species [CFG Code Section 2081(c); California Code Regulations, Title 14, Section 783.4(b)]. Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) listed as threatened under CESA has a low potential to occur within the Project area.

Preliminary notification and project review generally occur during the environmental process. When an existing fish or wildlife resource may be substantially adversely affected, CDFW is required to propose reasonable project changes to protect the resources. These modifications are formalized in a Streambed ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 35 Alteration Agreement that becomes part of the plans, specifications, and bid documents for the Project.

Section 3503 and 3503.5: Bird and Raptors
CFG Code Section 3503 prohibits the destruction of bird nests and Section 3503.5 prohibits the killing of raptor species and destruction of raptor nests.

Section 3513: Migratory Birds
CFG Code Section 3513 prohibits the take or possession of any migratory non-game bird as designated in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) or any part of such migratory non-game bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the MBTA.

Section 3511: Fully Protected Birds
CFG Code Section 3511 designates certain bird species as fully protected and prohibits the take or possession of these species, or any part thereof, except as expressly authorized for scientific research, species recovery, or limited relocation purposes by CDFW. The white-tailed kite is a fully protected species and has low potential to occur within the Project area.

City of Citrus Heights Municipal Code – Tree Preservation and Protection Regulations Native oak trees and other mature trees 19 inches or greater in diameter are protected and require a permit for removal.

Environmental Setting
A general biological survey was conducted on October 17, 2025, by Dokken Engineering biologists Caroline Clarkson and Katie Jacobson. The general biological su rvey was conducted within the Biological Study Area (BSA) which encompasses the Project area at the proposed trail alignment with an approximate 165-foot buffer to assess adjacent sensitive vegetation communities.

During biological survey efforts, three vegetation communities were observed within the BSA: annual grassland, oak woodland, and riparian woodland (Figure 6. Waters and Vegetation Communities). The BSA also includes two aquatic features: Arcade Creek an d Arcade Creek tributary and portions of two water quality/detention basins (Figure 6).

Perennial Stream Channel
Arcade Creek, a perennial stream channel, flows northeast to southwest through the BSA. Also included in this habitat is the Arcade Creek tributary, which flows sout heast into Arcade Creek. The channel originates in Orangevale and flows into the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal, which ultimately discharges to the Sacramento River. The tributary is fed almost entirely by urban stormwater runoff carried through a series of stormwater inlets and culverts from the surrounding de velopment. Within the BSA, the channel has highly incised banks and the width of the channel ranges from approximately 10 to 60 feet. As a perennial channel, water is present year-round. The larger creek watershed is frequently bisected by roadways and is lined by both residential and commercial developments. Local urbanization has resulted in the proliferation of non-native and invasive species, a degradation in water quality, and a de crease in bank stability as a result of the altered hydrologic flows (Dokken 2026c). Arcade Creek and its tributary comprise approximately 1.91 acres (6%) of the BSA.

ITEM 9
Figure 6
Waters and Vegetation Communities
CRP 5475(053)
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
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Elderberry Shrubs
Waters and Vegetation Communities
Annual Grassland (2.36 acres)
Water Quality/Detention Basin (1.20 acres)
Oak Woodland (0.51 acre)
Perennial Stream Channel (1.91 acres)
Riparian Woodland (8.88 acres)
Urban (13.99 acres)
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ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 37 Ephemeral Tributary
During the October 2025 biological survey, an ephemeral tributary to Arcade Creek was observed within the western portion of the BSA. The tributary has two parts, a main larger tributary measuring approximately 5 feet wide, and a sub-tributary measuring approximately 2 feet wide. The ephemeral tributaries collect rainwater and stormwater runoff from Auburn Boulevard and the shopping center north of the project and carry it toward Arcade Creek. The east main tributary splits off Arca de Creek from the west, outside of the BSA and flows southwest from two ponded areas which empty into Arcade Creek. The smaller sub-tributary splits off from the main tributary channel and flows south from a detention basin located northwest of the BSA, eventually merging with the main tributary. At the time of the survey, pooled water was present within the main tributary, but no flows were exhibited. No water was present within the sub-tributary. The boundaries of the ephemeral tributary were mapped in the field in accordance with the following OHWM indicators: change in vegetation species and density, break in bank slope, and presence of a bed, bank and channel. Dominant vegetation observed within the bed, banks, and surrounding area of the ephemeral tributary includes curly dock (Rumex crispus), spreading rush ( Juncus patens ), interior live oak, and Himalayan blackberry. The BSA contains approximately 0.10 acres (<1%) of ephemeral tributary.

Water Quality/ Detention Basins
The water quality/detention basins are gently slop ing, engineered depressions designed to capture and temporarily detain stormwater runoff. The western basin was completely dry at the time of the survey. However, historic aerial imagery (from November 2023) indicates that the area becomes inundated with water during heavy rain events caused by stormwater runoff from the adjacent commercial and residential areas. The basin supports annual grassland habitat dominated by spikeweed ( Centromadia fitchii) and wild oat ( Avena fatua) which appeared to have been recently trimmed.

The eastern basin was full of water at the time of the su rvey. This basin is supplied by a small stream channel to the north, which collects stormwater runoff from adjacent residential homes to the east and the paved parking lot to the west. The connected stream channel originates at the homes along Gallant Circle and flows south and southeast before reaching the basin. According to historic aerial imagery, this basin tends to hold water longer than the western basin, allowing it to grow hydrophy tic vegetation species such as broadleaf cattail ( Typha latifolia), tule (Schoenoplectus acutus var. occidentalis), cottonwoods and willow trees (Salix lasiolepis, Salix gooddingii). At the time of the survey, the cattails and tule s in the channel appeared to be in poor health and recently trimmed. The BSA contains approximately 1.20 acres (4%) of water quality/detention basins. Because the ephemeral tributary does not meet the “relatively permanent standard” under the current definition of waters of the U.S., it is considered a water of the state subject to Section 401 of the CWA.

Annual Grassland
Annual grasslands are open areas dominated primarily by annual plant species. In the BSA, this vegetation community is found along the edges of the two water quality/detention basins, bordering the oak woodland vegetation community. Common species observed in this vegetation community include wild oat, dogtail grass (Cynosurus echinatus), spikeweed, and common vetch (Vicia sativa). Annual grasslands cover approximately

2.36 acres (8%) within the BSA.

Riparian Woodland
The BSA includes a dense, mature, riparian woodland that borders the length of Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary. This vegetation community is dominated by a variety of native tree species including valley oak (Quercus lobata), interior live oak ( Quercus wislizeni), box elder ( Acer negundo), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and northern California black walnut (Juglans hindsii). The understory is comprised of Himalayan blackberry, periwinkle (Vinca minor), Harding grass (Phalaris aquatica) and tall flat sedge (Cyperus eragrostis). Within the riparian woodland, two clusters of elderberry shrubs were observed: one located on the southern bank of Arcade Creek mainstem north of Hesperia Way and the second located on the north bank of Arcade Creek mainstem, south of the Walmart. Riparian woodland provides ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 38 suitable habitat for a variety of wildlife species including birds, mammals and insects. Riparian woodland comprises approximately 8.84 acres (27%) of the BSA.

Oak Woodland
The BSA includes mature oak woodland that occupies the upland areas of the site. This community is dominated by native oak tree species such as valley oak, blue oak ( Quercus douglasii), and interior live oak. The canopy is moderately dense, providing partial shade and contri buting to a well-developed litter layer of decomposing oak leaves and twigs. The understory consists primarily of native and non-native grasses and forbs, including wild oat, Italian rye grass (Festuca perennis), and English plantain (Plantago lanceolata). Seasonal herbaceous growth is most abundant in spring, while the summer understory tends to dry and thin considerably. Shrub species such as poison oak ( Toxicodendron diversilobum) is also common in this vegetation community. The oak woodland vegetation community provides important foraging, nesting, and cover opportunities for a variety of wildlife species. Oak woodlands comprise approximately 1.44 acre (4%) of the BSA.

Wildlife
As discussed above, the BSA contains a variety of waters and vegetation communities (riparian woodland, oak woodland, water quality/detention basin, perennial stream channel, and annual grassland) which support a diversity of native and non-native wildlife species, including birds, mammals and amphibians. During the biological survey conducted on October 17, 2025, a high level of bird activity was observed throughout the BSA, particularly within the riparian woodland and oak woodland vegetation communities. Dominant bird species detected included acorn woodpecker ( Melanerpes formicivorus), California scrub jay ( Aphelocoma californica), northern flicker ( Colaptes auratus ), oak titmouse ( Baeolophus inornatus ), and northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos). The water quality/detention basins al so support waterfowl such as Canada geese (Branta canadensis) and mallards ( Anas platyrhynchos). Locally common amphibian species, pacific chorus frog (Pseudacris regilla) and bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) were also heard calling throughout the Arcade Creek corridor.

Habitat Connectivity
The CDFW Biogeographic Information & Observation System was reviewed to determine if the BSA is located within an Essential Connectivity Area. The BSA was determined to be within an area of Terrestrial Connectivity Rank 1 – Limited Connectivity Opportunity (Dokken 2026c). This ranking indicates that either land-use conditions limit the potential for wildlife or ecological processes to move through that area (urban, agriculture), or that no significant connectivity importance has been identified in relevant models. Rank 1 areas are classified by CDFW as lower priority for connectivity conservation efforts compared to Ranks 2–5.

Discussion
a. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Plant and wildlife species are considered to have special status if they have been listed as such by federal or state agencies or by one or more special interest groups, such as California Native Plant Society (CNPS). Prior to the field surveys, online databases from USFWS, California Natural Di versity Database (CNDDB), CNPS and NMFS were queried for presence of potential threatened, endangered, rare, or special status species (Appendix C).

Database search results identified ten special status or sensitive wildlife species and seven special status or sensitive plant species with potential of occurring in the vicinity of the BSA. An analysis of habitat requirements, recorded observations, and field surveys determined that the following species have potential to occur within the BSA: Sanford’s arrowhead ( Sagittaria sanfordii ), song sparrow (“Modesto” population) ( Melospiza melodia pop. 1), Swainson’s hawk, white-tailed kite ( Elanus leucurus), VELB, and NWPT. With implementation of the various measures listed below, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Sanford’s arrowhead
Sanford’s arrowhead is listed under CNPS as a 1B.2, meaning it is rare throughout its range and is moderately threatened in California. Sanford’s arrowhead is a perennial rhizomatous herb found in ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 39 sluggish waterways, swamps, freshwater marshes, ponds, ditches, and margins of slow flowing streams or sloughs up to 2,132 feet elevation. Sanford’s arro whead individuals were not observed within the BSA during the October 2025 biological survey. However, the BSA contains suitable stream channel and water quality/detention basin habitat that could support individuals of this species. There are 15 documented CNDDB occurrences of the species within 10 miles of the BSA, with the nearest approximately 2.2 miles northeast of the BSA within Sunrise Creek in 1994 (Dokken 2026c). Based on the suitable habitat and nearby occurrences, this sp ecies has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Approximately 0.10 acre of temporary impacts and approximately 0.01 acre of permanent impacts to suitable aquatic habitat (perennial stream channel) are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project ( Figure 7. Project Impacts ). To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-7 will be implemented to ensure that no Sanford’s arrowhead individuals are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Song Sparrow (“Modesto” Population)
The song sparrow (“Modesto” Population) is not a state of federally listed species but is a CDFW species of special concern (SSC). Individuals of this species were not observed during the October 2025 biological survey. However, the BSA contains suitab le nesting and foraging habitat for this species, including the easterly water quality/detention basin, which supports tules and cattails, as well as areas of low, dense vegetation such as Himalayan blackbe rry and periwinkle within the riparian woodland habitat. The oak woodland and riparian woodland ha bitats also provide potential nesting cover and include open grassland understory with leaf litter suitable for foraging. Arcade Creek and the water quality/detention basins provide a source of standi ng water, making the area suitable for the song sparrow. There is one CNDDB occurrence within 10 miles of the BSA in 1990, located approximately

9.2 miles southwest in which a specimen was collected (Dokken 2026c). Based on the potentially suitable habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project ( Figure 7). Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acre of permanent impacts to ri parian woodland habitat, with approximately 0.89 acre of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acre of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acre of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting song sparrows are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Swainson’s Hawk
Swainson’s hawk is a raptor species listed as threatened under CESA. Individuals of this species were not observed during the October 2025 biological survey. The BSA contains suitable nesting habitat for Swainson’s hawk within the riparian woodland and oak woodland areas, which include tall, mature oak trees capable of supporting nests. However, the BSA is surrounded by urban development and lacks the open, undeveloped areas typically required for foraging. Although some annual grassland habitat occurs within the BSA, it does not provide the extensive, open foraging areas preferred by the species.

The nearest suitable foraging habitat is located a pproximately 0.5 miles north of the proposed trail alignment within an open grassland area, north of Auburn Boulevard. The nearest CNDDB occurrence was documented in 2004 and was located approximately 4.8 miles south of the BSA in which a nest was observed in a eucalyptus tree near Ancil Ho ffman Park. There is also a nearby iNaturalist occurrence of the species located approximately 2.2 miles southwest of the BSA along Wendal Lane, recorded in August 2025. Based on the potentially suitable nesting habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

ITEM 9
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ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 41 Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project ( Figure 7). Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acre of permanent impacts to ri parian woodland habitat, with approximately 0.89 acre of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acre of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acre of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. All trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for in coordination with CDFW and the City. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-9 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting Swainson’s hawks are present within the Project area prior to construction.

White-tailed Kite
The white-tailed kite is not listed as threatened or endangered at the state or federal level but is a fully protected species under CFG Code Section 3511. Individuals of this species were not observed during the October 2025 biological survey. The BSA contains suitable nesting habitat for white-tailed kite within the riparian woodland and oak woodland areas, which include tall, mature oak trees capable of supporting nests. However, the BSA is surrounded by urban development and lacks the open, undeveloped areas typically required for foraging including grasslands, meadows, farmlands and emergent wetlands. Although some annual grassland habitat occurs within the BSA, it does not provide the extensive, open foraging areas preferred by the species. The nearest suitable foraging habitat is located approximately 0.5 miles north of the proposed trail alignment within an open grassland area, north of Auburn Boulevard. The nearest CNDDB oc currence is located approximately 3.5 miles northeast of the BSA at Woodbridge Park in Orangevale in which a pair nested in a large tree south of the pond, recorded in 1992 (Dokken 2026c). There is also a nearby eBird occurrence within the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, southeast of the BSA recorded in 2012. Based on the potentially suitable nesting habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project ( Figure 7). Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acre of permanent impacts to ri parian woodland habitat, with approximately 0.89 acre of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acre of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acre of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. All trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for in coordination with CDFW and the City. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting white-tailed kites are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
VELB is a federal listed threatened species. Critical habitat for the species was designated by the USFWS on August 8, 1980 (45 Federal Register 52803). Elderberry shrubs are obligate hosts for VELB larvae. In accordance with the USFWS Framework for Assessing Impacts to the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle, the Project area was buffered by 50 meters (≈ 165 feet) to identify elderberry shrubs occurring within the BSA (Dokken 2026c). During survey efforts, two elderberry clusters, both with stem diameters over one inch were observed with in the riparian woodland habitat within the BSA (Figure 6). Exit holes were observed on multiple stems within one of the two clusters, located on the ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 42 southern bank of Arcade Creek (Figure 6). The elderberry cluster without exit holes is approximately 72 feet south of the proposed trail alignment while the cluster with exit holes is approximately 95 feet south of the proposed trail alignment. The presence of exit holes indicates current or historic occupation by VELB, and therefore they have high potential to occur within the BSA.

No direct or indirect impacts to the elderberry shr ubs are anticipated as a result of trail construction.

Two elderberry clusters were identified within the BSA, both of which are located within the USFWS framework guidance buffer. One of the clusters is located across Arcade Creek in an area that is unrelated to and physically separated from Project activities. The intervening creek channel provides substantial distance and buffer between the Project and this cluster such that it would not be subject to stressors such as noise, vibration, exhaust, or dust. The second elderberry cluster, while also located within the USFWS buffer, is situated outside the Project impact area and is not anticipated to be affected by Project activities. The Project would have no impact on VELB.

Northwest Pond Turtle
The NWPT is listed as proposed threatened under FESA and is considered a SSC by CDFW. Arcade Creek and the eastern water quality/detention basin within the BSA provide suitable aquatic habitat for the NWPT due to the presence of slow-moving or standing water and available basking sites, including logs, rocks, muddy banks, and emergent vegetation. There is also some adjacent annual grassland habitat that may provide suitable upland nesting habitat for the species. According to the City of Sacramento's Existing Conditions and Assessment Report and Stream Corridor Management Plan for the Arcade Creek Watershed, NWPTs have been observed in the Arcade Creek stream corridor during spring and summer 2007 field surveys. The nearest CNDDB occurrence is located approximately 6.4 miles northeast of the BSA within the Baldwin Rese rvoir Wetland and Wildlife Preserve in Granite Bay, recorded in 1997 (Dokken 2026c). Due to the potentially suitable aquatic and upland habitat, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

The Project is anticipated to temporarily impact a total of approximately 0.10 acre of suitable aquatic habitat (perennial stream channel) and approxi mately 0.28 acre of suitable upland habitat (annual grassland) due to access during construction ( Figure 7). Additionally, the Project is anticipated to permanently impact a total of approximately 0.01 acre of suitable aquatic habitat (Arcade Creek mainstem) and 0.21 acre of suitable upland habitat (annual grassland) due to paving of the trail.

USFWS is currently not providing conference opinions for NWPT. However, given that NWPT is proposed to be listed under the FESA, Section 7 consultation will be required with USFWS upon official listing of the species. Though no determination will be made for purposes of Section 7 at this time, once officially listed under FESA, the determination for NWPT is proposed to be may affect, not likely to adversely affect. Measures BIO-10 and BIO-11 are proposed for the species as a show of good faith, to further the protection and recovery of the species, and in anticipation of any future listings. b. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Habitats are considered to be of special concern based on (1) federal, state, or local laws regulating their development; (2) limited distributions; and/or (3) the habitat requirements of special status plants or animals occurring on site. Wetlands and waters of the U.S. are also considered sensitive by both federal and state agencies. Within the BSA, Arcade Creek has been identified as a natural community of special concern as it is a jurisdictional water of the U.S. and state. The water quality/detention basins within the BSA are also considered jurisdictional waters of the state; however, because no temporary or permanent impacts to these features are expected, further discussion is not necessary. Additionally, annual grassland, oak woodland, and riparian woodland occur within the BSA and are considered natural communities of special concern as they provide potentially suitable habitat for special status plant and wildlife species. These natural communities are shown in Figure 6. In addition, Table 5. Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats and Figure 7 summarize the Project’s impacts on these natural communities. With implementation of the various measures listed below, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 43 Table 5. Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats
Impact Type
Sensitive Natural Habitat
Annual
Grassland Oak Woodland Perennial Stream Channel Riparian Woodland
Temporary 0.28 acre 0.17 acre 0.10 acre 0.89 acre
Permanent 0.20 acre 0.02 acre 0.01 acre 0.20 acre
Total 0.48 acre 0.19 acre 0.11 acre 0.99 acre
Source: Dokken 2026c

Perennial Stream Channel
The perennial stream channel habitat includes Arcade Creek and its tributary. Arcade Creek, a perennial stream channel, flows northeast to southwest through the BSA. Also included in this habitat is the Arcade Creek tributary, which flows southeast into Arcade Creek.

Construction of the trail will result in approximatel y 0.10 acre of temporary impacts to Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary due to access during installation of the gabion basket wall and placement of the prefabricated bridge. The bridge crossing over the Arcade Creek tributary will not require dewatering or any in-channel work, as it will be a prefabricated bridge and set over the creek using a crane or other heavy equipment. The bridge abutments will also be constructed outside of the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of the Arcade Creek tr ibutary so no excavation within the channel is anticipated. As a result, temporary impacts associated with prefabricated bridge placement would be limited to short-term increases in noise and vibration within the immediate work area. Approximately

0.01 acre of permanent impacts are also anticipated within Arcade Creek due to the installation of a gabion basket wall along an actively eroding section of the channel ( Figure 7). RSP is currently not anticipated at the bridge abutments but may be required based on future refinements in design and hydraulic studies and, if required, would be minimal. Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 will be implemented to avoid and minimize Project-related impacts to Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary. Mitigation measure BIO-4 will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this aquatic feature. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Riparian Woodland
Riparian woodland habitat borders Arcade Creek as it flows through the BSA. Dominant tree species observed within this vegetation community include valley oak, interior live oak, box elder, Oregon ash, Fremont cottonwood, and northern California black walnut. The understory is comprised of Himalayan blackberry, periwinkle, Harding grass, and tall fl at sedge. Within the BSA, this habitat community comprises approximately 8.84 acres.

Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acre of permanent impacts to riparian woodland habitat. An additional 0.89 acre of temporary impacts are anticipated due to construction access. To estimate the area needed for equipment access, a 20-foot temporary impact buffer was applied along the trail alignment. Tree removal within the ripari an woodland habitat will be required; however, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified. Field observations during a site visit conducted on December 18, 2025, indicate that most trees within the riparian woodland are likely to be avoided, and impacts would be largely limited to th e area around the proposed bridge crossing at the Arcade Creek tributary. Much of the mapped area in Figure 6 likely represents overstory canopy, and construction would occur within the understory, so major tree removal is not anticipated to be necessary. Some trees may only need to be trimmed to allow equipment access. The temporary and permanent impact estimates represent the maximum anticipated impacts, and final impacts will be further refined during the permitting process. Prior to construction, a tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal ( Figure 7). Avoidance and ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 44 minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3, and BIO-5 will be implemented as part of the Project to reduce impacts on riparian woodland habitat. Additionally, mitigation measures BIO-4 and BIO-6, will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this vegetation community. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Annual Grassland
Within the BSA, annual grassland habitat is found along the edges of the two water quality/detention basins, bordering the oak woodland habitat. During the biological survey conducted in October 2025, the westernmost water quality/detention basin was dry, and the grass appeared recently trimmed.

Common species observed in this habitat include wild oat, dogtail grass, spikeweed, and common vetch.

Annual grasslands cover approximately 2.70 acres within the BSA.

Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acre of permanent impacts to annual grassland habitat. An additional 0.28 acre of temporary impacts are anticipated due to construction access. To estimate the area needed for equipment access, a 20-foot temporary impact buffer was applied along the trail alignment ( Figure 7). Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 will be implemented as part of the Project to reduce impacts on annual grassland habitat. Additionally, mitigation measure BIO-6, will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this vegetation community. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Oak Woodland
The BSA includes a mature oak woodland habitat that occupies the upland areas of the site. This community is dominated by native oak tree species such as valley oak, interior live oak, and blue oak.

The canopy is moderately dense, providing partial shade and contributing to a well-developed litter layer of decomposing oak leaves and twigs. The understory consists primarily of native and non-native grasses and forbs, including wild oat, Italian rye grass, and English plantain. Seasonal herbaceous growth is most abundant in spring, while the summer understory tends to dry and thin considerably.

Shrub species such as poison oak were also found in this habitat type. Oak woodland habitat provides important foraging, nesting, and cover opportunities for a variety of wildlife species. Oak woodlands comprise approximately 1.44 acre of the BSA.

Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.02 acre of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat.

An additional 0.17 acre of temporary impacts are anticipated due to construction access. To estimate the area needed for equipment access, a 20-foot te mporary impact buffer was applied along the trail alignment. Tree removal within the oak woodland habitat will be required; however, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified. Field observations during the site visit conducted on December 18, 2025, indicate that most trees within the oak woodland are likely to be avoided, and impacts would be largely limited to the area around the proposed bridge crossing at the Arcade Creek tributary. Much of the mapped area in Figure 6 likely represents overstory canopy, and construction would occur within the understory, so major tree removal is not anticipated to be necessary. Some trees may only need to be trimmed to allow equipment access. The temporary and permanent impact estimates represent the maximum anticipated impacts, and final impacts will be further refined during the permitting process. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal ( Figure 7). Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3, and BIO-5 will be implemented as part of the Project to reduce impacts on oak woodland habitat.

Additionally, mitigation measures BIO-4 and BIO-6, will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this vegetation community. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c. No impact. An aquatic resources delineation was conducted in accordance with technical methods outlined in A Field Guide to the Identification of the Ordinary High-Water Mark (OHWM) in the Arid West Region of the Western United States to determine the boundaries of the OHWM of Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary ( Appendix C ). During survey efforts, no wetland features were identified. Thus, no impact would occur.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 45 d. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The CDFW Biogeographic Information & Observation System was reviewed to determine if the BSA is located within an Essential Connectivity Area. The BSA was determined to be within an area of Terrestrial Connectivity Rank 1 – Limited Connectivity Opportunity (Dokken 2026c). This ranking indicates that either land-use conditions limit the potential for wildlife or ecological processes to move through that area (urban, agriculture), or that no significant connectivity importance has been identified in relevant models. Rank 1 areas are classified by CDFW as lower priority for connectivity conservation efforts compared to Ranks 2–5.

The Arcade Creek Trail extension will follow an existing informal dirt path that passes through the open space area north of Arcade Creek. The Project will not introduce new barriers or cause additional habitat fragmentation. Upon completion, the Project will allow for the continued movement of terrestrial wildlife across the trail and throughout the surrounding oak woodland, riparian woodland, and annual grassland habitats ( BIO-6). Existing habitat connectivity will be maintained throughout Project implementation.

Additionally, oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats support migratory birds species protected under the MBTA. The implementation of measure BIO-8 and BIO-9 would avoid all potential impacts to migratory birds. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. e. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed Project is subject to the City of Citrus Heights Tree Ordinance. Tree removal within the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitats will be required; however, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified. Field observations during a site visit conducted on December 18, 2025, indicate that most trees within both habitats are likely to be avoided, and impacts would be largely limited to the area around the proposed bridge crossing at the Arcade Creek tributary. Much of the mapped area in Figure 6 likely represents overstory canopy, and construction would occur within the understory, so major tree removal is not anticipated to be necessary. Some trees may only need to be trimmed to allow equipment access. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to documen t and mark all trees proposed for removal. With the implementation of mitigation measure BIO-6, Project impacts regarding local policies or codes protecting biological resources would be less than significant with mitigation incoroprated. f. No Impact. No adopted Habitat Conservation Plans or other similar plan cover the Project area.

No impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
BIO-1: Every individual working on the Project must attend a biological awareness training session conducted by the Project biologist. This training program will include information regarding the sensitive habitats and an overview of special status wildlife species that may be encountered within the work area. During biological awareness training, construction personnel will be briefed on topics including, but not limited to, the protected status of VELB and NWPT, as well as the need to protect elderberry shrubs, the host plant of VELB.

BIO-3: BMPs will be incorporated into Project construction to minimize impacts on the environment including erosion and the release of pollutants (e.g. oils, fuels):
x Exposed soils and material stockpiles will be stabilized, through watering or other measures, to prevent the movement of dust at the Project site caused by wind and construction. x Implementation of the Project shall require approval of a site-specific SWPPP or Water Pollution ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 46 Control Program that will implement effective measures to protect water quality, which may include a hazardous spill prevention plan and additional erosion prevention techniques. x All construction areas will be properly protected to prevent excess erosion, sedimentation, and water pollution.
x All vehicle and equipment fueling/maintenance will be conducted outside of any surface waters and/or sensitive habitat.
x Equipment used in and around jurisdictional waters must be in good working order and free of dripping or leaking contaminants.
x Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic life shall be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering jurisdictional waters. x All erosion control measures, and storm water control measures will be properly maintained until the site has returned to a pre-construction state.
x All construction materials will be hauled off-site after completion of construction.

BIO-5: Native vegetation removal will not exceed what is shown on the plans without prior approval from the Project biologist. If trees will be trimmed rather than removed, trimming must comply with ANSI A300 pruning standards and must not:
x leave branch stubs
x make unnecessary heading cuts
x cut off the branch collar (not make a flush cut)
x top or lion’s tail trees (stripping a branch from the inside leaving foliage just at the ends) x remove more than 25 percent of the foliage of a single branch x remove more than 25 percent of the total tree foliage in a single year x damage other parts of the tree during pruning
x use wound paint
x climb the tree with climbing spikes
BIO-6: Following the completion of construction, all temporary effects to riparian woodland, annual grassland and oak woodland habitat will be recontoured and re-seeded at a 1:1 ratio, to allow for the habitat to return to its previous function. Tree removal will follow final plans and specifications, and any deviation must be approved by a Project biologist. All temporarily disturbed areas will be seeded with a Project biologist-approved native seed mix. Any trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for through replanting or other methods in coordination with CDFW and the City of Citrus Heights.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 47 BIO-7: A focused rare plant survey will be conducted within the Project area prior to the start of construction.

If rare plants are discovered during pre-construction surveys but can be reasonably avoided, an ESA fence will be installed to protect the specimens in place.

If a special-status plant specimen is present within the Project area and cannot be fully avoided, the Project biologist will relocate individual(s) and/or collect seeds to ensure the continued existence of the local population. Area of relocation or re-seeding will be at the discretion of the Project biologist but will be located within suitable habitat and within the same watershed of the Project, preferably at a location that is protected in perpetuity.

Within 1 week of the nesting bird survey, all vegetated areas that are designated for removal must be cleared by the contractor or a supplemental nesting bird survey is required.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 48 BIO-14: The contractor must not apply rodenticide or herbicide within the Project area during construction.

BIO-15: If any wildlife is encountered during the course of construction, said wildlife will be allowed to leave the construction area unharmed.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 49 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES - Would the
project:
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource as defined in
§15064.5?
X
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to §15064.5?
X
c. Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of dedicated cemeteries? X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Archaeological Survey Report (Dokken 2026d), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
CEQA established statutory requirements for establishing the significance of historical resources in PRC Section 21084.1. The CEQA Guidelines (Section 10564.5[c]) also require consideration of potential project impacts to "unique" archaeological sites that do not qualify as historical resources. The statutory requirements for unique archaeological sites that do not qualify as historical resources are established in PRC Section 21083.2. These two PRC sections operate independently to ensure that significant potential effects on historical and archaeological resources are considered as part of a project’s environmental analysis. Historical resources, as defined in Section 15064.5 as defined in the CEQA regulations, include 1) cultural resources listed in or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR); 2) cultural resource included in a local register of historical resources; 3) any object, building, structure, site, area, place, record, or manuscript which a lead agency determines to be historically signif icant or significant in one of several historic themes important to California history and development.

Under CEQA, a project may have a significant effect on the environment if the project could result in a substantial adverse change in the significance of a resource, meaning the physical demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration of the resource would be materially impaired. This would include any action that would demolish or adversely alter the physical characteristic s of an historic resource that conveys its historic significance and qualify it for inclusion in the CRHR or in a local register or survey that meets the requirements of PRC Section 5020.1(l) and 5024.1(g). PRC Section 5024 also requires state agencies to identify and protect sate-owned resources that meet.

National Register of Historic Place (NRHP) listing criteria. Sections 5024(f) and 5024.5 require state agencies to provide notice to and consult with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) before altering, transferring, relocation, or demolishi ng state-owned historical resources that are listed on or are eligible for inclusion in the National Register or are registered or eligible for registration as California Historical Landmarks.

CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines also recommend provisions be made for the accidental discovery of archaeological sites, historical resources, or Native American human remains during construction (PRC Section 21083.2(i) California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 15064.5[d and f]).

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 50 Environmental Setting
Efforts to identify potential archaeological resources in the Area of Potential Effects (APE) include historical research, a search of the Sacred Lands File (SLF) by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), a search of site records and survey reports on file at the North Central Information Center (NCIC), efforts to coordinate with Native American representatives, and a pedestrian survey. Results from the NCIC identified no cultural resources within the APE and 15 cultural resources within a 0.5-mile radius of the APE, all consisting of historic built environment resources. The NCIC result s also identified three reports within the APE and 12 reports within the 0.5-mile search radius.

The APE for the Project was configured to include the proposed paved trail, new prefabricated bridge, solar lighting, Arcade Creek bank protection, and pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road (Figure 3). The horizontal APE encompasses the south and southeastern portions of the Walmart Parking lot as potential staging areas and 50- foot buffer of all other Project features for construction access.

A pedestrian survey of the APE was conducted by consultant archaeologist Michelle Campbell on February 23, 2026, for the purpose of identifying and recording archaeological resources. Wilton Rancheria representatives participated in the pedestrian survey. UAIC conducted an independent survey on February 3, 2026. No constraints to the survey were encountered as full access was obtained prior to completing the survey. No cultural resources were identified within the APE as a result of the identification efforts (Dokken 2026d).

On October 24, 2026, a request was sent to the NAHC requesting a CEQA Tribal Consultation List for the Project area and review of the SLF for any Native Amer ican cultural resources that might be affected by the Project. On October 27, 2026, Pricilla Torres-Fuentes, NAHC Cultural Resource Analyst, replied via email that the results of the review were negative. Ms. Torres-Fuentes also provided a list of Native American tribes and recommended contacting each for further review of potential known and recorded sites within the proposed Project area.

Discussion
a. No Impact. The records search, consultation with Native American organizations and governments, and the field survey did not identify any historical resources, as defined in Section 15064.5 (Dokken 2026d). No impact would occur.
b. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated . In an effort to identify archaeological resources that might be affected by the undertaking, historical research, a search of the SLF by NAHC, a search of site records and survey reports on file at the NCIC, efforts to coordinate with Native American representatives, and a pedestrian survey were completed. The entire APE was surveyed, and no constraints were encountered as access had been obtained for the entire APE prior to the survey. Ground surface visibility within the APE was extremely low due to existing development. No archaeological resources were identified within or adjacent to the APE.

Additionally, the surface and subsurface sensitivity was assessed through background research, landform analysis, and opportunistic visual inspec tion of exposed subsurface soils within the APE during the pedestrian survey. The APE location is within an area of older Pleistocene aged soils with very low sensitivity for buried archaeological resources. Further, the majority of the APE will have disturbance of approximately 1–3 feet for proposed improvements, the majority of which has been previously disturbed by historical agricultural use and more modern urban development. Isolated locations for retaining walls and lighting will require up to 10 feet of disturbance. As Project activities will occur in older sediments and primarily within a shallow disturbance of previously construction ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 51 areas, the potential for the Project to impact intact cultural resource deposits in the APE is low.

However, there is always the possibility that un known cultural resources may be encountered during construction. With the implementation of measure CR-1 potential impacts from the Project would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
c. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. With any Project requiring ground disturbance, there is the possibility that unmarked burials may be unearthed during construction.

With implementation of CR-2, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
CR-1: If previously unidentified cultural materials are unearthed during construction, it is Caltrans’ policy that work be halted in that area until a qualified archaeologist can assess the significance of the find.

Additional archaeological survey would be needed if Project limits are extended beyond the present survey limits.

CR-2: Section 5097.94 of the PRC and Section 7050.5 of th e California Health and Safety Code protect Native American burials, skeletal remains and grave goods, regardless of age and provide method and means for the appropriate handling of such remains. If human remains are encountered, all ground disturbance within a 100-ft radius must stop and the county coroner should be notified immediately.

At the same time, an archaeologist should be cont acted to evaluate the situation and Caltrans PQS should be contacted. If the human remains are of Native American origin, the coroner must notify the Native American Heritage Commission within 24 hours of such identification. CEQA details steps to be taken if human burials are of Native American origin.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 52 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VI. ENERGY - Would the project:
a. Result in potentially significant environmental
impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
X
b. Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for
renewable energy or energy efficiency? X

Environmental Setting
Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) provides electrical service to the planning area. SMUD generates, transmits, and distributes electric power to a 900-square-mile service area that includes Sacramento County and a small portion of Placer County. SMUD re ceives its electricity from diverse and competitively priced resources, including hydro generation; cogeneration plants; advanced and renewable technologies such as wind, solar and biomass/landfill gas power; and power purchased on the wholesale market (Citrus Heights 2011b).

Discussion
a. Less Than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated . As discussed in Section III. Air Quality, the on-site construction equipment for the proposed Project is anticipated to emit 195 metric tons of GHG annually, which is below th reshold’s established by SMAQMD (see Table 4 and Appendix B ). Construction activities will include minor earthwork and would require minimal electricity consumption. With implementation of CC-1, construction-related GHG emissions be minimized further. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Additionally, there will be solar lights installed along the length of the trail, which will ensure the Project’s energy consumption during operation is minimal. b. No Impact. The Project supports several General Plan goals and actions relevant to increasing opportunities for multi-modal transportation, creatin g bicycle accessibility, and closing gaps in the current bicycle network including Goal 29 and Goal 39. By constructing an addition to the planned 16- mile CCTP, the proposed Project would provide for more energy-efficient transportation options within the City, and the overall effect to energy efficiency would be beneficial. As a result, the Project would not conflict with or hinder any state or local renewable energy plans, and no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
See Greenhouse Gases section for CC-1.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 53 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VII. GEOLOGY AND SOILS - Would the project:
a. Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury,
or death involving:

i. Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on
other substantial evidence of a known fault?
Refer to Division of Mines and Geology
Special Publication 42.

X
ii. Strong seismic ground shaking? X
iii. Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction? X
iv. Landslides? X
b. Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
topsoil? X
c. 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?
X
d. Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table
18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994),
creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life
or property?
X
e. 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?
X
f. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique
geological feature.

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, and the resources cited in this analysis.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 54 Regulatory Setting
Federal
Historic Sites, Buildings and Antiquities Act
For geologic and topographic features, the key federal law is the Historic Sites, Buildings, and Antiquities Act (Historic Sites Act). Enacted into law August 21, 1935, the Historic Site Act establishes a national registry of natural landmarks and protects “outstanding examples of major geological features.” This is Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior through the National Parks Serv ice to protect topographic and geologic features by carrying out programs to survey, research, and acquire sites of national significance; collect photographs, objects, and document acquired sites; cooperate with stak eholders to preserve, restore, or operate sites; and develop ongoing public educational programs. Topographic and geologic features are also protected under the CEQA.

State
Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act
The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act was passed in 1972 to mitigate the hazard of surface faulting to structures for human occupancy. The main purpose of the law is to prevent the construction of buildings used for human occupancy on the surface trace of active faults . The law only addresses the hazard of surface fault rupture and is not directed toward other earthquake hazards. The Alquist-Priolo Act requires the State Geologist to establish regulatory zones known as “Earthquake Fault Zones” around the surface traces of active faults and to issue appropriate maps. The maps are distributed to all affected cities, counties, and state agencies for their use in planning efforts. Local agencies must regulate most development projects within the zones. Projects include all land divisions and most structures for human occupancy.

Seismic Hazards Mapping Act
The Seismic Hazards Mapping Act addresses non surface fault rupture earthquake hazards, including liquefaction and seismically induced landslides. Passed by the State Legislature in 1990, this law was codified in the PRC as Division 2, Chapter 7.8A, and became operative in April 1991. The Seismic Hazards Mapping Act resulted in a mapping program that is intended to reflect areas that have the potential for liquefaction, landslides, strong earth ground shaking, or other earthquake and geologic hazards.

Local
Citrus Heights Municipal Code
Chapter 18 of the Municipal Code provides regulations for buildings and construction. Article 4 of the City’s building code adopts by reference the California Bu ilding Code Part 2, 2007 Edition, which is based on the 2006 International Building Code. Article 12 includes land grading and erosion control requirements to minimize the degradation of water quality and water courses; disruption of drainage flows from land preparation and development activities; and sediment and pollutant runoff from construction activities.

Environmental Setting
Seismicity
The CCHGP EIR describes the following regarding seismicity in the City of Citrus Heights:
x The planning area is located within an area of California with relatively low seismic activity and is not located within a highly active fault zone.
x The Citrus Heights planning area was not identified as having liquefaction potential. The depth to the water table and the underlying geologic materials within the planning area do not support high liquefaction potential.

Slope Stability and Landsliding
ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 55 The topography of the Citrus Heights ar ea is characterized by flat terrain with small hills in some locations.

Slopes within the planning area range from zero to 15% wi th the majority of the steeper slopes located in the southeastern portion of Citrus Heights. No landslides or landslide deposits have been mapped within the planning area. No evidence of slope instability such as landslide scars or mudflow features are observed in the planning area. Overall potential for slope instability in the planning area is considered low (Citrus Heights 2011b).

Soils
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Custom Soil Resource Report was queried for the Project, and the soil types within the Project area include Fi ddyment-Orangevale complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes and Fiddyment-Orangevale-Urban land complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes (Dokken 2026c). Erosion hazard ad shrink/swell potential is shown in Table 6. Soil Types in the Project Area below:

Table 6. Soils Types in the Project Area
Soil Type Soil Slope Erosion Hazard Shrink/ Swell
Potential
147 Fiddyment-Orangevale complex 2-8% Slight to moderate Moderate 148 Fiddyment-Orangevale-Urban
land complex
2-8% Moderate Moderate
Source: CCHGP EIR 2011b

Discussion
a.i-iv. No Impact. The Project would not expose people or structures to potential substantial or adverse effects. i. The Project is not located within a Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone and there are no active faults are located within the Project area (Citrus Heights 2011b). ii. The proposed Project would not expose people or structures to seismic ground shaking due to the lack of active faults within the City and the nature of the proposed Project activities (Citrus Heights 2011b).
iii. The Project is not located within a liquefaction zone (Citrus Heights 2011b). iv. The Project is not located within a landslide zone (Citrus Heights 2011b). b. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Soils within the Project area have a slight to moderate erosion potential (Citrus Heights 2011b). The Project will require ground disturbance and tree/vegetation removal along the alignment of the proposed trail, which may cause soil erosion and loss of topsoil during construction. Potential im pacts to soils would be minimized through soil stabilization measures covered within the required General Construction municipal separate stormwater system (MS4) Permit and implementation of the SWPPP (mitigation measures WQ-1 and WQ-2). The Project would also comply with Article 12 “Land Grading and Erosion Control” of the City’s Municipal Code. In addition, mitigation measure WQ-4 and BIO-3 would further reduce erosion during construction. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c. No Impact. Refer to response to question a) above. The Project is not 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. No impact would occur. d. Less Than Significant. Two soil map units are mapped within the Project area: Fiddyment-Orangevale- Urban land complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes, and Urban land-Xerarents Fiddyment complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes (Dokken 2026c). These soil types have a low to high and moderate shrink swell potential as shown in Table 6. Geotechnical investigations will be conducted to address expansive soils in foundation design of the bridge and trail. Therefore, the Project would not create substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property and the impact would be less than significant.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 56 e. No Impact. The proposed Projects would not use a septic tank system. In addition, sewage is not required for proposed Project; therefore, the Project will have no impacts related to septic systems. No impact would occur.
f. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Proposed grading for trail construction will range from 1–1.5 feet deep. Solar lights will require 12 f eet of excavation depth and installation of bank protection will require disturbances up to 5 feet below the current flow line. The pedestrian bridge may require up to 50 feet of ground disturbance if installed with piles. However, with any project requiring ground disturbance, there is always the possibility that unknown paleontological resources may be unearthed during construction. Implementation of CCHGP EIR Mitigation Measure 4.7-7 would reduce impacts related to potential damage to unique paleontological resources to a less than significant level by ensuring that earth disturbing activities cease if any possible resources are uncovered, minimizing potential adverse impacts on unique, scientifically important paleontological resources.

Mitigation Measures from City of Citrus Heights General Plan EIR that apply to the Project CCHGP EIR Mitigation Measure 4.7-7 is applicable to the proposed Project.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
See Section IV. Biological Resources for BIO-3 and Section X. Hydrology and Water Quality for WQ-1, WQ- 2 and WQ-4.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 57 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS - Would
the project:
a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a significant
impact on the environment?
X
b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing
the emissions of greenhouse gases?
X

Regulatory Setting
Federal
Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse Gases under the Federal Clean Air Act On December 7, 2009, EPA adopted its Proposed Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse Gases under the CAA (Endangerment Finding ). The Endangerment Finding is based on Section 202(a) of the CAA, which states that the EPA Admin istrator should regulate and develop standards for “emission[s] of air pollution from any class of classes of new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines, which in [its] judgment cause, or contribute to, air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare.” The rule addresses Section 202(a) in two distinct findings. The first addresses whether or not the concentrations of the six key GHGs (i.e., CO 2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF6) in the atmosphere threaten the health and welfare of current and future generations. The second addresses whether or not the combined emissions of GHGs from new motor vehicles and motor vehicle engines co ntribute to atmospheric concentrations of GHGs and thus to the threat of climate change. The Administrator found that atmospheric concentrations of GHGs endanger public health and welfare within the meaning of Section 202(a) of the CAA.

The Administrator also found that GHG emissions from new motor vehicles and motor vehicle engines are contributing to air pollution, which is endangering public health and welfare.

State
In 2005, EO S-3-05 proclaimed that California is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. To combat those concerns, the EO established a long-range GHG re duction target of 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.

Subsequently, Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 was signed. AB 32 requires California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. AB 32 directed CARB to develop and implement regulations that reduce statewide GHG emissions. The Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan) approved by CARB in December 2008, outlines the State’s plan to achieve the GHG reductions required in AB 32. Though the Scoping Plan does not define the specific role local governments will play in meeting the State’s GHG reduction goals, it identifies cities and counties as “essential partners” within the overall statewide effort. Additionally, Senate Bill (S B) 375 (2008) established a process whereby regional targets for reduced vehicles miles traveled (VMT) and GHG emissions will be established by ARB, in collaboration with Metropolitan Planning Organization s throughout the state, including the Sacramento Area Council of Governments. Once determined, these targets will apply to the transportation emissions sector.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 58 Local
City of Citrus Heights Greenhouse Reduction Plan
The City of Citrus Heights Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan (GGRP) addresses major sources of GHG emissions in the community that cumulatively contribute to global climate change. The City’s approach to addressing GHG emission reductions includes:
x completing a baseline GHG emissions inventory and projecting future emissions; x identifying a communitywide GHG reduction target;
x preparing a GHG reduction plan to identify strategies and measures to meet the reduction target; x identifying targets and reduction strategies in the General Plan and evaluating the environmental impacts of the GGRP in the General Plan EIR; and monitoring effectiveness of reduction measures and adapting the plan to changing conditions.

In 2008, the City of Citrus Heights joined other Sacramento County communities in preparing a GHG emissions inventory. Following certain adjustments that better characterized Citrus Heights’ local conditions and jurisdiction, the baseline inventory indicated that the community released 543,727 metric tons of CO 2e emissions in 2005. The communitywide baseline inventory reported emissions under different source-sectors, including transportation, off-road mobile sources (e.g., lawnmowers, boats), residential and commercial energy use, solid waste disposal, water use, and wastewater treatment. Figure 8. Citrus Heights Community-wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Baseline (2005) depicts the percent breakdown of emissions related to the various sectors:

Figure 8. Citrus Heights Community-wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Baseline (2005)

Source: CCHGP 2011b
Discussion

a. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. GHG emissions for transportation projects can be divided into those produced during constr uction and those produced during operations. For the Project, construction GHG emissions would includ e emissions produced by on-site construction equipment. As discussed in Table 4 in the Section III. Air Quality, construction GHG emissions would be below threshold’s established by SMAQMD. Additionally, with implementation of CC-1, ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 59 construction-related GHG emissions be further reduced. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

By design, the Project is intended to increase pedestrian and bicycle accessibility to existing communities, schools and other existing trails and further encourage non ‐motorized travel within the Project area. The Project would not increase the number of automobiles in the traffic system. No impact to greenhouse gas emissions or climate change would result from operations.

b. No Impact. The proposed Project would not conflict w ith the City of Citrus Heights GGRP. The proposed Project would not conflict with an applic able plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
CC-1: The implementing agency will require through construction contract terms and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures and implements all applicable SMAQMD best management practices for reducing construction-related GHG emissions. Documentation will be provided to the implementing agency on a weekly basis. The contract provisions and specifications will authorize the implementing agency to sanction contractors for non ‐compliance. The implementing agency will consult SMAQMD prior to construction about the most current recommended construction best management practices and will adopt those practices. Practices include the following:
x Improve fuel efficiency from construction equipment:
o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to no more than 3 minutes. Provide clear signage that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site.
o Maintain all construction equipment in proper working condition according to manufacturer’s specifications. The equipment must be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition before it is operated.
o Train equipment operators in proper use of equipment, including limiting idling time, minimizing warm-up time, performing routine maintenance, and optimizing equipment use. o Avoid using equipment that is larger than the job requires. o Use equipment with new technologies (e.g., repowered engines, electric drivetrains). x Perform on-site material hauling with trucks equipped with on-road engines (if the air districts or CARB determine them to emit less than the off-road engines). x Use alternative fuels for generators at construction sites, rather than gasoline or diesel (e.g., propane or solar), or use electrical power.
x Use a CARB-approved low-carbon fuel for construction equipment. (NOx emissions from the use of low-carbon fuel must be reviewed and increases mitigated.) x Encourage and provide carpools, shuttle vans, and transit passes for construction worker commutes. x Reduce electricity use in the construction office by using compact fluorescent bulbs, powering off computers every day, and using the most efficient heating and cooling units available. x Recycle or salvage non-hazardous construction and demolition debris (goal of at least 75% by weight) to avoid landfill disposal.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 60 x Use locally sourced or recycled materials for construction materials (goal of at least 20% based on costs for building materials, and based on volume for trail, sidewalk and curb materials). Wood products utilized should be certified through a sustainable forestry program. x Minimize the amount of concrete for paved surfaces or utilize a low carbon concrete option. x Produce concrete on-site if determined to be less emissive than transporting ready mix. x Use Smartway certified trucks for deliveries and equipment transport. x Develop a plan to efficiently use water for adequate dust control.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 61 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
IX. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS - Would the project:
a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
X
b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset
and accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment?
X
c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous
or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or
waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or
proposed school?
X
d. 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, would it create a significant hazard to the
public or the environment?
X
e. For a project located within an airport land use
plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted,
within two miles of a public airport or public use
airport, would the project result in a safety hazard
for people residing or working in the project
area?
X
f. Impair implementation of or physically interfere
with an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
X
g. Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or
death involving wildland fires?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment (Geocon 2026, Appendix E), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
Hazardous materials and hazardous wastes are regulated by many state and federal laws. These include not only specific statutes governing hazardous waste, but also a variety of laws regulating air and water quality, human health and land use.

Federal law covers a number of different activities involving asbestos, including demolition and renovation of structures (40 CFR Section 61.145). Federal regulations and regulations adopted by the SMAQMD apply to the identification and treatment of hazardous materials during demolition and construction activities. Failure to ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 62 comply with these regulations respecting asbestos may result in a Notice of Violation being issued by the AQMD and civil penalties under state and/or federal law, in addition to possible action by U.S. EPA under federal law.

Hazardous waste in California is regulated primarily under the authority of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, and the California Health and Safety Code. Other California laws that affect hazardous waste are specific to handling, storage, transportation, disposal, treatment, reduction, cleanup and emergency planning.

Worker health and safety and public safety are key is sues when dealing with hazardous materials that may affect human health and the environment. Proper disposal of hazardous material is vital if it is disturbed during project construction.

Environmental Setting
Standard Environmental Record Sources
A record search from Environmental Data Resources (EDR) was conducted in January 2026 which searched federal, state, and local environmental databases for potential Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) within the Project area and properties/facilities within one mile of the Project area (Appendix E). The Project area is listed on two non-release-related databases1 for a construction project that was terminated in 2024. These listings do not indicate the release or storage of hazardous materials and therefore, are unlikely to have caused an REC within the Project area. Three properties within 1/8 mile of the Project area are listed on various non- release-related databases. No properties within 1/4 mi le of the Project area are listed on release-related databases, however two properties within approximately 300 feet of the Project area are listed as hazardous waste generators (Walmart #3712) and Costco (#771). The Underground Storage Tank (UST) Finder database indicates that four USTs are present (three 20,000-gallon tanks and one 1,500-gallon tank) at the Costco Gas Station upgradient of the Project area (Appendix E). Since no releases have been reported, these two properties are unlikely to have caused an REC within the Project area.

GeoTracker and EnviroStor
Information available on the California State Water Resources Control Board’s GeoTracker (http://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov) and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s (DTSC) EnviroStor (http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/) online data management systems were also reviewed for information regarding documented environmental as sessment and cleanup at the Project area and/or properties/facilities within 1/8 mile of the Project ar ea. No information pertaining to the Project area or properties/facilities within the vicinity of the Project area is available on GeoTracker or EnviroStor (Appendix E).

Aerial Photographs
Dry farmed fields were present across the western portion of the Project area from as early as 1937 until likely sometime in the 1950s. This type of crop cultivation suggests that pesticides were not likely applied and persistent pesticides and associated metals are not likely to be present in soil in this area. The DTSC’s Interim Guidance for Sampling Agricultural Properties (Third Revision) dated August 7, 2008, states that “many dry- land farming fields are not treated with pesticides or infrequently treated, since the lack of water does not provide a desirable habitat for most agricultural pests. Properties that clearly qualify as dry-land farming do not need further investigation for pesticides or metals.” (Geocon 2026). The aerial photographs do not show features or land uses that directly suggest the presence of conditions or features within the Project area or on adjoining and adjacent properties likely to have caused an REC within the Project area.

Site Reconnaissance
Site reconnaissance was completed on January 19, 2026 by Lauren Fordyce-Pitner, Staff Scientist with Geocon.

The Project area includes the southern and eastern port ions of the Stock Ranch Commercial Center (behind Walmart and Costco). Loading docks, packing materials such as pallets, paved parking areas with staining, ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 63 several shipping containers with unknown contents, a lo cked propane storage area, machinery, and various utilities such as irrigation, electric, and stormwater were observed. While hazardous materials may be present inside the shipping containers and were observed in the propane storage tank area, no evidence of spills or leaks were observed and the shipping containers were secured and located on pavement. Therefore, it is unlikely that hazardous materials would have contaminated the su rrounding soil. Adjoining and nearby properties include residential homes, Stock Ranch Commercial Center, Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, Arcade Creek, and Sylvan Road. Traffic striping weas observed on Sylvan Road.

Discussion
a-b. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Based on the site reconnaissance and database research, potential sources of hazardous materials on properties adjacent to the Project boundaries only include lead or chromium in yellow thermoplastic traffic striping (Geocon 2026).

Removal of yellow thermoplastic traffic striping from the existing roadway surface is required to construct the at-grade signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road. Yellow traffic stripes may contain heavy metals such as lead and chromium at concentrations in excess of hazardous waste thresholds established by the CCR and may produce toxic fumes when heated. HM-1 will be implemented to reduce impacts.

Additionally, with any Project that involves excavation, there is a possibility of encountering unknown hazardous contamination during construc tion. With the implementation of measure HM-2, Project impacts from upset or accident conditions will be reduced less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
c. No Impact. No schools are located within one-quarter mile of the Project area. Thus, the Project would not emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of a school. There would be no impact. d. No Impact. Government Code Section 65962.5 requires California EPA to maintain a list of hazardous waste and substance sites, called the Cortese List, which is consulted during land-use planning and development processes. A review of the California EPA databases indicate that there are no sites listed on the Cortese List located within the Project area. Therefore, the Project would not create a significant hazard to the public or environment and no impact would result from Project implementation. e. No Impact. The Project is not located near an airport or airstrip. Since the Project site is not located within two miles of an airport or an area for which an Airport Land Use Plan has been prepared, and no public or private airfields are within two miles of the Project area, users of the proposed Project would not be exposed to hazards due to over flight aircraft. Thus, no impacts would occur. f. Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Partial road closures will be required during construction of the Project. As part of the Project, measure LU-2 will be implemented prior to construction to minimize any disruption to local traf fic. Operation of the Project would not impair or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response or evacuation plan. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
g. No Impact. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map, the Project site is located within a Local Responsibility Area (LRA) (CAL FIRE 2026). The surrounding land uses are also located within an LRA. The Project site and surrounding land uses are not within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (CAL FIRE 2026).

Therefore, the proposed Project would not expose people or structures to significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires, and no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 64 Additional Project Level Mitigation Measures
See Transportation section for LU-2.

HM-1: To avoid impacts from pavement striping during construction it is recommended that removal requirements for yellow striping and pavement mark ing materials be performed in accordance with Caltrans Standard Special Provision 14-11.07 REMOVE YELLOW TRAFFIC STRIPE AND PAVEMENT MARKING WITH HAZARDOUS WASTE RESIDUE.

HM-2: Should any previously unknown hazardous waste/material be encountered during construction, the procedures outlined in Caltrans Hazards Procedures for Construction shall be followed.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 65 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
X. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY -
Would the project:
a. Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
degrade surface or ground water quality?
X
b. Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
such that the project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?
X
c. 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:
i) result in substantial erosion or siltation on-
or off-site;
ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would
result in flooding on- or offsite;
iii) 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; or
iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
X
d. In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk
release of pollutants due to project inundation? X
e. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a
water quality control plan or sustainable
groundwater management plan?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Water Quality Technical Memorandum (Dokken 2026e, Appendix F), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
Federal
Federal Clean Water Act of 1972
The CWA establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into waters of the U.S. and setting water quality standards for all contaminants in surface waters. Water quality standards are designed to protect the public health or welfare, enhance the quality of water and serve the purposes of the CWA.

Thus, water quality standards must contain:

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 66 x Designation of beneficial uses of water, and
x Establishment of water quality criteria to protect those designated uses.

EPA’s Office of Water is responsible for implementing the CWA. The Office provides guidance, specifies scientific methods and data collection requirements, performs oversight, and facilitates communication among the federal, State, and local agencies that manage water quality. EPA has delegated the State of California as the authority to implement and oversee most of the programs authorized or adopted for CWA compliance through the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act of 1969. The Porter-Cologne Act is described in the State regulatory setting below.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
In 1972, the CWA was amended to provide that the discharge of pollutants to waters of the U.S from any point source is unlawful unless the discharge is in compliance with a NPDES permit. In California, the SWRCB and RWQCBs are authorized to implement this program. NPDES permits cover industrial and municipal discharges, discharges from storm sewer systems in larger cities, storm water associated with numerous kinds of industrial activity, runoff from construction sites disturbing more than one acre of soil, mining operations, and animal feedlots and agricultural facilities above certain thresholds.

Stormwater discharges from both large and small construction sites are now subject to NPDES requirements.

Large construction sites are those that involve one or more acres of soil disturbance. The SWRCB has issued an NPDES General Permit for Discharges of Storm Wate r Associated with Construction Activity (General Construction Permit) under the CWA. The permit requires the preparation of a SWPPP for proposed construction activities of greater than one acre in size. A SWPPP is an operational plan that identifies and describes BMPs to be implemented at the construction site to control pollution of stormwater runoff. Since 2008, small construction sites (those involving disturbance of less than one acre of soil) have also required an NPDES permit as part of Phase II of EPA’s NPDES Storm Water Program. Phase II is intended to further reduce adverse effects on water quality and aquatic habitat by instituting the use of BMPs on previously unregulated sources of stormwater discharges that have the greatest likelihood of causing continued environmental degradation (Citrus Heights 2011b).

The Phase II requirements also impose new obligations on MS4s. Small MS4s (i.e., those located in an incorporated city or a county of less than 100,000 people) that are located within urbanized areas as defined by the U.S. Census must now be covered by a NPDES permit. Details of the NPDES permit system as it pertains to the City of Citrus Heights are discussed in the State and local regulatory settings below.

Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act
Section 303(d) of the CWA requires states to develop lists of water bodies (or segments of water bodies) that will not attain water quality standards after implementation of minimum required levels of treatment by point source dischargers (e.g., municipalities and industries). Section 303(d) requires states to develop a total maximum daily load (TMDL) for each of the listed pollutants and water bodies. A TMDL is the amount of loading that the water body can receive and still meet water quality standards. The TMDL must include an allocation of allowable loadings to point and nonpoint sources, with consideration of background loadings and a margin of safety. NPDES permit limitations for listed pollutants must be consistent with the load allocation prescribed in the TMDL. The TMDL must also include an analysis that shows links between loading reductions and the attainment of water quality objectives. The EPA must either approve a TMDL prepared by the state or, if it disapproves the state’ s TMDL, issue its own. NPDES permit limits for listed pollutants must be consistent with the waste load allocation prescribed in the TMDL. After implementation of the TMDL, it is anticipated that the problems that led to placement of a given pollutant on the Section 303(d) list would be remediated. On October 25, 2006, the SWRCB approved California’s 2006 Section 303(d) List of Water Quality Limited Segments.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 67 State
Porter Cologne Water Quality Control Act of 1969
The Porter Cologne Water Quality Control Act, otherwise known as the California Water Code, is California’s statutory authority for the protection of water quality. Under the Porter Cologne 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 Porter Cologne Act sets forth the obligations of the SWRCB and RWQCBs pertaining to the adoption of Basin Plans and establishment of water quality objectives. It also authorizes the SWRCB and RWQCBs to issue and enforce permits containing waste discharge requirements. Basin Plans establish beneficial uses, water quality objectives, and implementation programs for each of the nine regions in California. Unlike the federal CWA, which regulates only surface water, the Porter Cologne Act regulates both surface water and groundwater.

State Water Resources Control Board
In 1967, the SWRCB was created to administer state water rights and water quality functions. The SWRCB and its nine RWQCBs administer water rights and enforce pollution control standards throughout the state.

The SWRCB is responsible for granting of water right permits and licenses through an appropriation process following public hearings and appropriate environmental review by applicants and responsible agencies. In granting water right permits and licenses, the SWRCB must consider all beneficial uses, including water for downstream human and environmental needs. In addition to granting the water right permits needed to operate new water supply projects, the SWRCB also issues water quality–related certifications to developers of water projects under Section 401 of the federal CWA.

Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit
In the City of Citrus Heights, storm water discharge through the City's municipal storm drain system is managed through a joint NPDES Permit with the County of Sacramento and the cities of Sacramento, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Elk Grove and Galt (NPDES Permit No. CAS082597, WDR Order No. R5-2008-0142).

The joint NPDES permit regulates all wet and dry weather runoff discharge in the County, including the City of Citrus Heights. The joint permit requires implementation of a storm water management program (the Sacramento Stormwater Quality Partnership described below addresses this requirement) which includes the use of BMPs. Wastewater discharges from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are also required to have an NPDES permit. WWTPs are typically required to obtain individual permits from the RWQCB. The permits include findings, discharge prohibitions, effluent limitations, provisions and self-monitoring requirements.

The findings of the NPDES permit process provide information about treatment plant design and operations, beneficial uses to be protected, and applicable standards.

NPDES General Permit for Construction
The SWRCB’s statewide stormwater general permit for construction activity (Order 2009-0009-DWQ) approved on September 2, 2009 and effective July 1, 2010 applies to all land-disturbing construction activities that would disturb more than one acre. Construction activities subject to the general construction activity permit include clearing, grading, stockpiling, and excavation. Dischargers are required to eliminate or reduce non-storm water discharges to storm sewer systems and other waters. The permit also requires dischargers to consider the use of post-construction permanent BMPs that will remain in service to protect water quality throughout the life of the project. Types of BMPs include source controls, treatment controls, and site planning measures. Activities subject to the NPDES general permit for construction activity must develop and implement a SWPPP. The SWPPP includes a site map and description of construction activities and identifies the BMPs 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. A monitoring program is generally required to ensure that BMPs are implemented according to the SWPPP and are effective at controlling discharges of storm water related pollutants.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 68 Local
Sacramento County Stormwater and Grading Ordinances
Sacramento County Stormwater Ordinance (Sacramento County Code 15.12) prohibits unauthorized nonstormwater discharge to the County’s stormwater conveyance system and local creeks. It applies to private and public projects located in the unincorporated County, including areas within the Citrus Heights planning area located outside the City limits, regardless of size or land use type. In addition, Sacramento County Code 16.44 (Land Grading and Erosion Control) requires private construction sites in the unincorporated County disturbing one or more acres or moving 350 cubic yards or more of earthen material to obtain a grading permit. To obtain a grading permit, project proponents must prepare and submit for approval an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan describing erosion and sediment control BMPs that will be implemented during construction to prevent sediment from leaving the site and entering the County’s storm drain system or local receiving waters.

City of Citrus Heights Standards
City of Citrus Heights Municipal Code Chapter 106.30.040 “Creekside Development & Flood Hazard Mitigation” contains performance standards and requirements for development near creeks, setback areas to open spaces, and flood hazard mitigation.

Environmental Setting
The Project is located within Sacramento County. Th e mainstem of Arcade Creek, which originates in Orangevale and flows into the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal, is approximately 16.2 miles long with a watershed area of about 29.7 square miles. It ultimately discharges to the Sacramento River. Within the Project area, the Arcade Creek channel also includes a perennial tributary which splits off from the mainstem south of Huntington Square Lane. Historic aerial imagery indicates that the tributary once flowed south from Auburn Boulevard, but over time residential development shortened the channel, leaving only a remnant of the original tributary. The Arcade Creek channel and its tributary are part of the Arcade Creek watershed, a small, urbanized watershed covering approximately 38 square miles. Surrounding land use in the Arcade Creek watershed is primarily residential and commercial with transportation in frastructure such as roads, trails and parking lots.

Historically, Arcade Creek functioned as a seasonal stream that carried water predominantly during the winter and spring months. In some years, portions of the creek and its tributaries would completely dry out during the summer. With increasing urbanization, the creek transitioned to a perennial system, likely beginning around 60 years ago. Today, dry-weather flows are sustained by inputs such as landscape irrigation runoff, car washing, industrial discharges, and other non-stormwater sources, resulting in Arcade Creek maintaining continuous flow throughout the year. Most surface water within Arcade Creek is urban runoff (Dokken 2026e). Arcade Creek is the main surface hydrological feature in the City of Citrus Heights.

Arcade Creek within the Project area is 303(d) listed and considerations for TMDLs (Dokken 2026e) for the following:
x Bifenthrin
x Copper
x Fipronil Sulfone
x Malathion
x Permethrin
x Pyrethroids
x Toxicity
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map designates the Project area within three zones: Zone X, Zone AE, and Regulatory Floodway (Dokken 2026e). Zone X signifies a minimal ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 69 flood hazard area with a 0.2% annual chance of flood ing. Zone AE designates areas that are within the 100- year base flood zone and have a 1% annual chance of flooding. The Regulatory Floodway is designated as a special flood hazard area within the 100-year base flood zone and a 1% annual chance of flooding.

Discussion
a. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project will disturb greater than one acre of soil, therefore a Construction Storm Water General Permit is required, issued by the SWRCB to address storm water runoff (WQ-1). The permit will address clearing, grading, grubbing, and disturbances to the ground, such as stockpiling, or excavation. This permit will also require the Project’s contractor to prepare and implement a SWPPP with the intent of keeping all products of erosion from moving off site into receiving waters (WQ-2). The SWPPP includes BMPs to prevent construction pollutants from entering storm water runoff. Measures WQ-3 and WQ-4 would also be implemented to avoid and minimize impacts to water quality. Additionally, prior to work within Arcade Creek, a 401 WQC will be obtained from the Central Valley RWQCB, which will contain measures to reduce impacts to water quality. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
b. Less Than Significant. The Project would not directly or indirectly result in the construction of uses that would utilize groundwater supplies. However, the Project is currently designed with an impervious surface for the trail (totaling approximately 0.47 acre of impervious surface), which will alter the rate of infiltration at the Project site. Proposed impervious surface impacts to groundwater resources would be minimal, as the proposed Project does not contain elements that would add to or draw from groundwater supplies.

Additionally, the proposed Project would not be constructed immediately above a preexisting well, nor would areas known to contain wells be disturbed by construction of the proposed Project. Therefore, impacts to groundwater supplies would be less than significant. c. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project would increase impervious surface by approximately 0.47 acre associated with the proposed trail improvemen ts, resulting in an incremental increase in stormwater runoff from the trail surface. Runoff generated by the Project would be directed to existing drainage facilities and would not exceed the capacity of the existing stormwater drainage system. Proposed drainage features along th e trail would convey stormwater in a controlled manner to prevent localized flooding during storm events.

Construction of the proposed Project will involve grading that has the potential to temporarily alter the existing topography of the Project site, potentially increasing erosion and sedimentation. However, these impacts would be short term and would be minimized with implementation of WQ-1 through WQ-4. Following construction, the site would be stabilized and graded to maintain appropriate drainage.

With implementation of measures WQ-1 through WQ-4, the potential for the Project to result in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site during construction or operation would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
d. Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project area is within three FEMA zones: Zone X, Zone AE, and Regulatory Floodway. Zone X signifies a minimal flood hazard area with a 0.2% annual chance of flooding (Figure 9. FEMA Flood Zones). Zone AE designates areas that are within the 100-year base flood zone and have a 1% annual chance of flooding. The Regulatory Floodway is designated as a special flood hazard area within the 100-year base flood zone and a 1% annual chance of flooding. Measures WQ-1 and WQ-2 will reduce the risk of pollutants being released during construction if inundation does occur. Impacts will be less than significant with mitigation. e. No Impact. The Project would obtain the appropriate permits from the Central Valley RWQCB;
therefore, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct the implementation of the Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Valley RWQCB. Furthermore, the Project would not have any effects to groundwater. There would be no impact on any applicable water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan. No impact would occur.

ITEM 9
Figure 9
FEMA Flood Zones
CRP 5475(053)
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
Source: Dokken Engineering 3/19/2026; Created By: ahale (
0 62.5 125
Feet
9 ?B$UFDGHB&ULSSOHB&UHHNB7UDLO?(QYB'RF?(QYB'RFVDSU[ 0LFURVRIW9DQWRU Project Area (8.06 acres)
High Risk Area (Special Flood Hazard Area)
Zone AE, Floodway
Zone AE
Moderate to Low Risk Area (Non-Special Flood Hazard Areas) Zone X, 0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard
Zone X, Area of Minimal Flood Hazard
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ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 71 Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
WQ-1: The proposed project will require an NPDES Genera l Construction Permit for Discharges of storm water associated with construction activities (Construction General Permit 2022-0057-DWQ). As part of this Permit requirement, a SWPPP shall be prepared prior to construction consistent with the requirements of the RWQCB. This SWPPP will incorporate all applicable BMPs to ensure that adequate measures are taken during construction to minimize impacts to water quality.

WQ-3: Prior to the start of construction activities, the project limits in proximity to jurisdictional waters must be marked with high visibility ESA fencing or staking to ensure construction will not further encroach into jurisdictional waters.

WQ-4: Contract specifications will include the following BMPs, where applicable, to reduce erosion during construction:
x Existing vegetation will be protected in place where feasible to provide an effective form of erosion and sediment control;
x As a permanent BMP, slope roughening by equipment tracking will be implemented to create unevenness on bare soil. Surface roughening reduces erosion potential by decreasing runoff velocities, trapping sediment, and increasing water infiltration.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 72 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XI. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the
project:
a. Physically divide an established community? X
b. Cause a significant environmental impact due to
a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or
regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or
mitigating an environmental effect?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Community Impact Assessment Memorandum (Dokken 2026f, Appendix G), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Environmental Setting
Existing land use designations include General Commercial (Costco and Walmart), Open Space (Arcade Creek and Stock Ranch Nature Preserve), low density residential, and medium density residential ( Figure 5. Land Use Designations).

Discussion
a. No Impact. There will be impacts to up to four parcels within / adjacent to the Project area. A permanent easement will be needed from Sunrise Recreation & Park District. The City of Citrus Heights currently has a permanent easement at the Huntington Square Apartments, which may need to be modified for construction of the proposed trail. A TCE will be needed from Walmart to allow for construction access through their property. See Table 7. Right-of-Way Needs within the Project Area below for more information.

Table 7. Right-of-Way Needs within the Project Area
Assessor Parcel
Number
Property Owner Property Address Property Needs
211-0280-004 Hunting Square
Limited LP
7311 Huntington Square
Lane,
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Modification to an
existing Permanent
Easement
211-0870-002 Wal Mart Real Estate
BSNS Trust
7010 Auburn Blvd.

Citrus Heights, CA 95621
TCE
211-0870-013 Sunrise Recreation &
Park District
Auburn Blvd.

Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Permanent Easement
211-0870-014 Sunrise Recreation &
Park District
Auburn Blvd.

Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Permanent Easement
Source: Dokken 2026f

Although there will be impacts to parcels within and adjacent to the Project area, the proposed Project would construct a segment of the planned CCTP. As such, the Project would not divide an established community. No impacts would occur.
b. No Impact. The proposed Project is consistent with the General Plan as the existing roadway classification for Sylvan Road will remain unchanged and the zoning and/or land use designations for ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 73 adjacent areas will not be changed. After the City of Citrus Heights’ incorporation on January 1, 1997, the City of Citrus Heights Bikeway Master Plan includes this area as a proposed Class I bike lane, with the CCTP identifying 16 miles of feasible trail segments throughout the City of Citrus Heights including Arcade Creek, Brooktree Creek, Cripple Creek, and the SMUD utility Corridor (City of Citrus Heights 2015). The creek corridors are adjacent to residential and commercial areas which allow for increased connections and mobility options, including through natural areas. One of the goals of the General Plan is to “establish a system of creek side trails, passive open space and parks for public use.” CCTP will allow for a framework to meet this goal and create multi-use trails within the creek and SMUD utility corridors (City of Citrus Heights 2025). The Project would not result in land use changes that conflict with the General Plan or other relevant City of Citrus Heights plans (such as the Pedestrian Master Plan, Bikeway Master Plan, Safe Routes to School Master Plan, or ADA Master Plan). No impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 74 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XII. MINERAL RESOURCES - Would the
project:
a. 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?
X
b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally-
important mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local general plan, specific plan
or other land use plan?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory/Environmental Setting
The Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) of 1975 requires the state geologist (California Geological Survey [CGS]) to inventory and classify selected mineral resources in California. The following is a description of SMARA mineral resource classifications:
x Mineral Resource Zone (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.
x MRZ-2a: Areas underlain by mineral deposits where geologic data show that significant measured or indicated resources are present.
x MRZ-2b: Areas underlain by mineral deposits where geologic information indicates that significant inferred resources are present.
x MRZ-3a: Areas containing known mineral deposits that may qualify as mineral resources x MRZ-3b: Areas containing inferred mineral deposits that may qualify as mineral resources. x MRZ-4: Areas where geologic information does not rule out either the presence or absence of mineral resources.
x SZ Areas: Contain unique or rare occurrences of rocks, minerals, or fossils that are of outstanding scientific significance.
x IRA Areas: County- or state-identified areas where production and information indicates that significant minerals are present.

No mineral resources are currently being mined or produced in the planning area. The planning area has been evaluated for California SMARA Mineral Land Classification. The planning area is primarily designated as MRZ-1, which is defined as “ areas where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence.” A portion of the southwestern planning area is designated as MRZ-3 (Citrus Heights 2011b).

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 75 Discussion
a. No Impact. The proposed Project would not result in the use or extraction of any mineral or energy resources and would not restrict access to known mineral resource areas. Furthermore, the proposed Project would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource. Therefore, no impact would occur.
b. No Impact. Refer to response to question a), above. The proposed Project would have no impact on mineral resources. No impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 76 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIII. NOISE - Would the project result in:
a. Exposure of persons to or generation of noise
levels in excess of standards established in the
local general plan or noise ordinance, or
applicable standards of other agencies?
X
b. Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels? X
c. For a project located within the vicinity of a
private airstrip or an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or
working in the project to excessive noise levels?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Noise Technical Memorandum (Dokken 2026g, Appendix H), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
City of Citrus Heights General Plan
The General Plan identifies the City’s intent to protect city residents from the harmful and annoying effects of exposure to excessive noise. Goal 51, Policy 51.6 is relevant for transportation projects. The Policy says: “Use techniques such as roadway design, traffic signalization and other traffic management techniques (such as limiting heavy truck traffic in residential areas and requiting alternative paving material) to reduce noise caused by speed or acceleration of vehicles.”
City of Citrus Heights Noise Ordinance
The City of Citrus Heights Noise Ordinance (Citrus Heights Municipal Code, Chapter 34, Article III) contains performance standards for the purpose of prohibiting unnecessary, excessive, annoying sounds that, at certain levels and frequencies, are detrimental to the health and welfare of the City’s residents. The following provisions of the City’s Noise Ordinance are applicable.

The exterior noise standards applicable to the proposed Project for Noise Area 1 (shown in Table 8. Noise Area 1 Exterior Noise Standards), which covers the RD-5 and RD-20 land use zones abutting the proposed Project, are for exterior noise limits of 55 dBA between 7:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 50 dBA between 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (Figure 4. Zoning Districts).

Table 8. Noise Area 1 Exterior Noise Standards
Noise Area City Zoning Districts Time Period Exterior Noise Standard
1 RD-1, RD-2, RD-3, RD-4, RD-5, R-7, RD-10,
R15, RD-20, R-25, RD-30, MH
7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m
55 dBA 50 dBA
Source: Citrus Heights 2011b

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 77 The Noise Ordinance provides exemptions from the above standards for outdoor school events; outdoor gatherings conducted pursuant to a City permit; activities in parks, playgrounds and school grounds; machinery used in connection with emergency activities; dayt ime construction noise; daytime agricultural noise; agricultural noise to salvage crops or perform pest control; daytime residential property maintenance; and airport operations and maintenance.

Specifically, the following exemption is provided for daytime construction noise.

Noise sources associated with construction, repair, remodeling, demolition, paving or grading of any real property, provided the activities do not take place between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekdays and Friday comm encing at 8:00 p.m. through and including 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, Saturdays commencing at 8:00 p.m. through and including 7:00 a.m. on the next following Sunday, and on each Sunday after the hour of 8:00 p.m. However, when an unforeseen or unavoidable condition occurs during a construction project and the nature of the project necessitates that work in process be c ontinued until a specific phase is completed, the contractor or owner shall be allowed to continue work after 8:00 p.m. and to operate machinery and equipment necessary until completion of the specific work in progress can be brought to conclusion under conditions which will not jeopardize inspection acceptance or create undue financial hardships for the contractor or owner.

Environmental Setting
There are existing sensitive receivers within the vicinity of the proposed construction activity, including existing residences north, south, and east of the existing trail.

Noise sources that contribute to ambient noise levels in and adjacent to the Project site include operational and traffic noise associated with the Walmart and Costco to the west of the existing trail. Table 9 summarizes typical ambient noise levels based on population density.

Table 9. Population Density and Associated Ambient Noise Levels Population Density dBA, Ldn
Rural Suburban 40–50
Quiet suburban residential or small town 45–50
Normal suburban residential urban 50–55
Normal urban residential 60
Noisy urban residential 65
Very noisy urban residential 70
Downtown, major metropolis 75–80
Under flight path at major airport, 0.5 to 1 mile from runway 78–85 Adjoining freeway or near a major airport 80–90
Source: Dokken 2026g

The vicinity of the Project area is most similar to that of a “normal suburban residential urban” setting due the Project’s surrounding uses of residential neighborhoods and local streets. Such areas have an expected typical noise level of 50–55 dBA (Dokken 2026g).

Discussion
a. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Generally, noise levels at construction sites can vary from 55 dBA to a maximum of nearly 90 dBA when heavy equipment is used. During construction-related activities of the Project, noise from construction-related activities may intermittently (that is, short-term and temporarily) dominate the noi se environment in the immediate area of construction. Table 10. Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels summarizes noise levels produced by construction equipment that is commonly used on trail construction projects.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 78 Table 10. Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels Type of Equipment
Typical Noise Level (dBA)
50 feet from Source
Dozer 85
Excavator 88
Concrete Mixer 85
Compactor 82
Loader 85
Backhoe 80
Grader 85
Pile Driver 90
Crane 83
Generator 81
Truck 88
Source: Federal Transit Administration 2006

Construction activities would include cranes, earth movers, dump trucks, concrete mixers, generators, pavers, and possibly jackhammers or pile driving. Noise levels would vary depending on the type, duration, and occurrence of construction-related activity. The loudest construction-related activities may include engine noise from pile driving, jack hammering, and construction vehicles. For this Project, the lowest construction equipment-related noise levels would be 55 dBA at a distance of 50 feet for sound from a pick-up truck. The highest cons truction-related noise levels would be for pile driving (up to 90 dBA at a distance of 50 feet) invo lved in installation of the bridge supports for the creek overcrossing structure and for jackhammering (90 dBA at a distance of 50 feet) involved in removing the existing concrete pathways on the apartment complex property.

The nearest distance between nearby residences to bridge supports where pile driving would occur is approximately 300 feet, and noise produced by construction equipment would be reduced over distance at a rate of about 6 dB per doubling of distance. At a distance of 300 feet, noise from pile driving would attenuate to approximately 74 dBA.

Construction-related noise would be short-term, temporary, and intermittent. Construction is expected to be completed within a 6-month time period, with pile-driving anticipated to occur over a two-day period within the 6 months.

NOI-1 has been incorporated into the Project, which will be in compliance with the Caltrans Standard Specifications for noise control and City of Citrus Heights Municipal Code to limit the acceptable hours of construction and demolition activity. Impacts w ould be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
b. Less than significant. Residences are within the vicinity of the Project, which are considered sensitive noise receptors. The proposed Project is not anticipated to result in substantial ground borne vibration or noise levels. Construction related groundborne noise and ground vibration would be localized, resulting from use of jackhammer or pile drivin g. These disturbances would be temporary and intermittent and would occur only during construc tion. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 79 c. No Impact. The Project site is not located near an existing airport and is not within an area covered by an existing airport land use plan. Therefore, no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
NOI-1: To minimize the construction-generated noise, th e contractor shall follow the Caltrans Standard Specifications for noise control and Chapter 34, Article III, Sec. 34-88(5) of the City of Citrus Heights Municipal Code, which requires the following:
x Only operate construction equipment or run the equipment engines between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
x When an unforeseen or unavoidable conditi on occurs during a construction project and the nature of the project necessitates that work in progress be continued until a specific phase is completed, the contractor shall be allowed to continue work after 8:00 p.m. and to operate machinery and equipment necessary until completion of the specific work in progress can be brought to conclusion under conditions which will not jeopardize inspection acceptance or create undue financial hardships for the contractor.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 80 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIV. POPULATION AND HOUSING - Would
the project:
a. Induce substantial unplanned 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)?
X
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing people
or housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
X

Environmental Setting
The Project is located in Census Tract 81.36 (west of Sylvan Road) and 81.41 (east of Sylvan Road). Table 11.

Demographics provides a comparison of key demographic data, including age, economic status, and race, between Census Tracts 81.6 and 81.41, City of Citrus Heights, and Sacramento County. The City of Citrus Heights and Sacramento County have a notably higher percentage of residents aged 65 and older compared to Census Tracts 81.36 and 81.41. The same trend can be seen in terms of income, both for the median and average household incomes. Additionally, there are no clear trends regarding the proportion of minority populations when comparing the demographic information in the two census tracts with the City of Citrus Heights and Sacramento County.

Table 11. Demographics
Subject Census Tract

81.36 Census
Tract 81.41
City of Citrus
Heights
Sacramento
County
65 years and over 16.8% 11.0% 18.2% 18.2%
Median Household Income $70,648 $63,537 $91,036 $94,087 Mean Household Income $77,291 $75,279 $104,046 $119,881 Race
White 81.5% 62.7% 71.7% 59.6%
Black or African American 0.8% 6.7% 3.0% 10.6%
American Indian and Alaska
Native

0.8% 1.1% 0.9% 1.6%
Asian 4.7% 2.6% 4.4% 19.4%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific
Islander

1.1% 0.0% 0.4% 1.4%
Some Other Race 3.7% 21.0% 8.3% 0.0%
Two or More Races 7.5% 5.9% 11.3% 7.4%
Source: Dokken 2026f

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 81 Discussion
a. No Impact. The proposed Project does not include the construction of new homes or businesses, nor does it include extension or construction of new roadways which could potentially induce growth.

Therefore, the Project would have no potential to induce substantial population growth in the area, either directly or indirectly. No impact would occur.
b. No Impact. Although the Project would require permanent easements, it would not occur on land where existing residential structures are located. Thus, th e Project will not displace any existing housing or necessitate the construction of replacement housing. No impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 82 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XV. PUBLIC SERVICES - Would the project:
a. Result in substantial adverse physical impacts
associated with the provision of new or physically
altered governmental facilities, need for 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 any of the public
services:

i) Fire protection? X
ii) Police protection? X
iii) Schools? X
iv) Parks? X
v) Other public facilities? X

Environmental Setting
Below is a list of the nearest public facilities to the Project area:
x Fire Station: The Sacramento Metro Fire Station 21 at 7641 Greenback Ln, is approximately 0.8 miles southeast of the Project area.
x Police Station: The Citrus Heights Police Station at 6315 Fountain Square Drive, is located 0.5 mile south of the Project area.
x Parks:
o The Stock Ranch Nature Preserve is located within and adjacent to the proposed Project area. o Van Maren Park is located approximately 400 feet south of the Project area. x School: Sylvan Middle School at 7085 Auburn Boulevard is approximately 0.4 mile south of the Project area.

Discussion
ai, ii Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Development of the Project would not result in increased population and residential structures; however, fire and police services could be required for users of the new trail. As the Project is located within portions of the City already serviced by police and fire services and since the new path has a short distance of 0.5 mile in length, it is anticipated that the City would be able to provide police and fire protection services for the Project will continuing to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, and performance objectives.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 83 The proposed Project would construct a new public trail adjacent to the Huntington Square Apartments and other nearby residential uses. Residents may have concerns regarding safety, privacy, or security associated with the proximity of a publicly accessible trail to residential units. As such, measure LU-1 would require development of an outreach and enga gement plan to coordinate with residents and provide opportunities for input regarding potential security considerations related to the trail. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. aiii-v No Impact. The proposed Project does not include new development for habitation, nor does it include development of new businesses. Therefore, the proposed Project would not induce population growth and furthermore, does not include any components that would result in any schools or parks.

Establishment of additional facilities to maintain acceptable service ratios for the public would not be necessary. Therefore, no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
LU-1: An outreach and engagement plan will be developed to ensure potential security concerns from residents of the Huntington Square Apartments are identified and addressed prior to construction.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 84 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVI. RECREATION
a. Would the project 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?
X
b. Does the project include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Community Impact Assessment Memorandum (Dokken 2026e), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Environmental Setting
The Public Services section above lists the recreational facilities in the vicinity of the Project area.

Discussion
a-b. Less than significant. The proposed Project will connect to the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center south of Auburn Boulevard and west of Sylvan Road, as part of the planned CCTP. The Project addresses the current lack of accessible pedestrian and bicycle facilities, which limits multi-modal transportation and access to key recreational areas. However, residents already have access to parks in the area under existing conditions; thus substantial physical deterioration of local parks and other recreational facilities is not expected to result from the proposed Project.

Although the proposed Project involves the extension of a multiuse trail for recreational purposes, it does not include a residential or commercial component that would increase human presence in the area which could result in increased use of existing parks or recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreation facilities. Impacts are considered less than significant.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 85 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVII. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC - Would
the project:
a. Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or
policy addressing the circulation system
including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian
facilities?
X
b. Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b)? X
c. Substantially increase hazards due to a design
feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
X
d. Result in inadequate emergency access? X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Community Impact Assessment Memorandum (Dokken 2026e, Appendix G), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
City of Citrus Heights Bikeway Master Plan
The City’s 2009 Bikeway Master Plan provides recommendations for implementing a comprehensive and coordinated bikeway system in the City to improve the bicycle travel for all residents and visitors (Citrus Heights 2015). The Bikeway Master Plan enables the City to construct bikeway improvements and be competitive for grant funding to construct bikeways throughout the community.

Pedestrian Master Plan
The Pedestrian Master Plan provides a broad vision, strategies, and actions for improving the pedestrian environment in the unique neighborhoods of Citrus Heights. The Pedestrian Master Plan is a blueprint for the City to improve the pedestrian environment, secure funds dedicated to pedestrian safety and livable communities, and increase the number of walking trips (Citrus Heights 2016).

Discussion
a. No Impact. The proposed Project will connect to the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center south of Auburn Boul evard and west of Sylvan Road, as part of the planned CCTP. As such, the Project is consistent with, the City’s General Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans. No impact would occur.
b. No Impact. The proposed Project does not involve construction of a new public roadway or significant physical alteration of an existing roadway and would have no impact on an established VMT threshold.

The Project consists solely of activities which are considered exempt from VMT analysis, per the SB 743 Implementation Guidelines for City of Citrus Heights. Therefore, the Project would not conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b), and no impact would occur.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 86 c. No Impact. The design features of the proposed Project would comply with City standards, or as appropriate, would be approved as non-standard features. The Project would not increase hazards due to design features or incompatible uses. The Project would not substantially increase hazards due to a design features (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompat ible uses (e.g., farm equipment). No impact would occur.
d. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Partial road closures will be required during construction of the Project. As part of the Project, measure LU-2 will be implemented, and a traffic management plan will be developed prior to construction to minimize any disruption to local traffic.

Implementation of LU-2 would minimize any potential impacts to emergency access during construction activities. Impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
LU-2: A Traffic Management Plan will be prepared to identify ways to minimize impacts to the public during partial road closures anticipated during construction.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 87 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVIII. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES -
a. Would the project cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a tribal cultural
resource, defined in Public Resources Code section
21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural
landscape that is geographically defined in terms of
the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place,
or object with cultural value to a California Native
American tribe, and that is:
i. Listed or eligible for listing in the
California Register of Historical Resources,
or in a local register of historical resources
as defined in Public Resources Code section
5020.1(k), or
X
ii. A resource determined by the lead agency,
in its discretion and supported by
substantial evidence, to be significant
pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision
(c) of Public Resources Code Section
5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in
subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code
Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall
consider the significance of the resource to
a California Native American tribe.

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, 2026 Archaeological Survey Report (Dokken 2026d), and the resources cited in this analysis.

Regulatory Setting
Effective July 1, 2015, CEQA was revised to include early consultation with California Native American tribes and consideration of TCRs. These changes were enacted through AB 52. By including TCRs early in the CEQA process, AB 52 intends to ensure that local and Tribal governments, public agencies, and project proponents would have information available, early in the project planning process, to identify and address potential adverse impacts to TCRs. CEQA now establishes that a “p roject with an effect that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a TCR is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment” (PRC Section 21084.2).

To help determine whether a project may have such an adverse effect, the PRC requires a lead agency to consult with any California Native American tribe that requests consultation and is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of a proposed project. That consultation must take place prior to the determination of whether a negative declaration, MND, or EIR is required for a project (PRC Section 21080.3.1). Consultation must consist of the lead agency providing formal notifi cation, in writing, to the tribes that have requested notification or proposed projects within their traditiona lly and culturally affiliated area. AB 52 stipulates that the NAHC shall assist the lead agency in identifying the California Native American tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated within the project area. If the tribe wishes to engage in consultation on the project, the tribe must respond to the lead agency within 30 days of receipt of the formal notification. Once the lead agency ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 88 receives the tribe’s request to consult, the lead agency must then begin the consultation process within 30 days.

If a lead agency determines that a project may cause a substantial adverse change to TCRs, the lead agency must consider measures to mitigate that impact. Consultation concludes when either: 1) the parties agree to measures to mitigate or avoid a significant effect, if a significant effect exists, on a TCR, or 2) a party, acting in good faith and after reasonable effort, concludes that mutual agreement cannot be reached (PRC Section 21080.3.2). Under existing law, environmental documents must not include information about the locations of an archaeological site or sacred lands or any other in formation that is exempt from public disclosure pursuant to the Public Records act. TCRs are also exempt from disclosure.

For purposes of this study, the term “tribal cultural resource” refers to either of the following:

1. Sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe that are either of the following:
b. Included or determined to be eligible for inclus ion in the California Register of Historical Resources
c. Included in a local register of historical resour ces as defined in subdivision (k) of California PRC Section 5020.1

2. A resource determined by a California lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of the PRC Section 5024.1.

Environmental Setting
Native American Consultation
On October 24, 2026, a request was sent to the NAHC requesting a CEQA Tribal Consultation List for the Project area and review of the SLF for any Native Amer ican cultural resources that might be affected by the Project. On October 27, 2026, Pricilla Torres-Fuentes, NAHC Cultural Resource Analyst, replied via email that the results of the review were negative. Ms. Torres-Fuentes also provided a list of Native American tribes and recommended contacting each for further review of potential known and recorded sites within the proposed Project area.

On January 7, 2026, CEQA consultation (AB52) initial notification letters were mailed or sent via online portal to the representatives on the NAHC list. These letters provided information on the Project and requested that the letter recipients respond with requests to consult or with any comments or concerns about the Project. If no response to the letter was received, a follow-up ema il was sent on March 3, 2026. A summary of outreach is included below.
x Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians. Rhonda Morning Star, Chairperson. Initial letter sent 1/7/26 and follow up email sent 3/3/26. No response to date. x Colfax-Todds Valley Consolidated Tribe; Clyde Prout, Chairperson, Pamela Cubbler, Vice Chairperson, and Preservation Cultural Department. Initial letter sent 1/7/26 and follow up email sent 3/3/26. No response to date.
x Ione Band of Miwok Indians; Sara D. Setshwaelo, Chairperson. Initial letter sent 1/7/26 and follow up email sent 3/3/26. No response to date.
x Nashville Enterprise Miwok-Maidu-Nishinam Tribe; Cosme A. Valdez, Chairperson. Initial letter sent 1/7/26 and follow up email sent 3/3/26. No response to date. x Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians; Kara Perry, Director of Site Protection and Mariah Mayberry, Site Protection Coordinator.
o On March 4, 2026, Ms. Perry responded that consultation had been requested and a site visit was scheduled. Daniel Kehrer, City of Citrus Heights Engineer, responded on March 5, 2026 ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 89 that two trail segments are in the environmental process for the City and that the current segment was different from the segment that the tribe had previously requested consultation and a site visit for. Additional correspondence cl arified that the tribe could visit both trail segments during the scheduled visit. On March 12, 2026, the tribe surveyed the Project site. x TSI-AKIM Maidu of the Taylorsville Rancheria; Ben Cunningham, Tribal Council Member and Ben Cunningham-Summerfield, Cultural Advisor. Initial letter sent 1/7/26 and follow up email sent 3/3/26.

No response to date.
x United Auburn Indian Community of the Auburn Rancheria; Josef Fore, THPO. o Anna Starkey, UAIC Cultural Regulatory Manager, sent an email to Mr. Kehrer indicating the UAIC had identified the Project area as potentially culturally sensitive and requested to formally consult on the Project. As part of consultation, the Tribe requested to conduct a survey for the identification of TCRs. Ms. Starkey indicated once the identification of TCRs was complete, the Tribe would provide their recommendations and mitigation measures. Mr. Kehrer replied acknowledging receipt of the consultation request and provided additional information on access to the Project area.
o On January 26-27, Luz Salazar, UAIC Cultural Regulatory Coordinator, emailed Mr. Kehrer to coordinate a tribal survey. Mr. Salazar indicated the Tribe would like to conduct their survey on February 3rd and did not require the consultant archaeologists to be present. Mr. Kehrer replied indicating his understanding and reiteratin g that the City was available for a meeting after the survey if needed.
o Ms. Starkey emailed Mr. Kehrer on March 4, 2026 and conveyed that the tribal survey was negative for TCRs. The tribe also provided language, including background, methods and results, and mitigation measures, to be included in the CEQA TCR section and stated that consultation could be considered closed. Mr. Kehrer responded on March 9, 2026 agreeing to incorporate the tribe’s language and stated that the City could provide the opportunity for the tribe to monitor initial ground disturbance but could not offer compensation for such work. o Mr. Kehrer emailed Ms. Starkey on March 10, 2026 to state the City is in agreement regarding the language of proposed TCR- 2 and TCR-3 and will incorporate into their CEQA document.

Mr. Kehrer stated that compensated Tribal monitoring, as proposed in TCR-1, was not possible as the City considered monitoring without identified resources as consultation, which is not compensated by the City. Mr. Kehrer provided the City’s standard CEQA measures and letter explaining compensation.
o Ms. Starkey emailed Mr. Kehrer on March 11, 2026 to state that the UAIC does not consider Tribal monitoring as consultation but instead sees it as mitigation under CEQA. Ms. Starkey also stated that the City standard measures, specifically TCR-2, needed to be revised to acknowledge that Tribal, and not just archaeological, values should be utilized for determining TCR significance of discoveries. Ms. Starkey requested a meeting to discuss further. o Mr. Kehrer responded that the UAIC provided language for TCR- 2 would be utilized in place of the City’s standard measures. Mr. Kehrer also stated that he would respond soon with meeting availability. Consultation regarding CEQA TCR measures is ongoing between the City, who is the CEQA lead agency, and the UAIC.
o On May 15, 2026 tribal representatives from the UAIC conducted a pedestrian survey of the project area. As a result of the survey, tribal representative Anna Starkey requested that the City include measure TCR-1 Unanticipated Discoveries of TCRs be included. No further action was requested and consultation was closed out on May 19, 2026. x Wilton Rancheria; Steven Hutchason, THPO, Michel le St. Clair, Executive Director of Cultural Preservation, and Cultural Preservation Department.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 90 o On February 3, 2026, Ms. St. Clair replied to Daniel Kehrer, City of Citrus Heights Principle Civil Engineer via email and attached response le tter indicating that the tribe would like to open formal consultation for the Project. The attached response letter included a general overview of the U.S. Government to Government Consultation Process with The Tribe and included a request for any cultural resources assessments or other assessments that have been completed on all or part of the Project’s APE, and area surrounding the APE. Additional Tribal requests of note include the Tribe’s request to be present at any field investigation survey and the request to be notified prior to any geotechnical testing. o On February Mr. Kehrer replied indicating th at the Tribe’s comments and requests were recorded and would be incorporated in the Project mitigation measures. Mr. Kehrer indicated that Geotechnical testing is planned in the next couple weeks, and once the date of the testing was scheduled the tribe will be notified.
o Coordination resulted in a survey conducted on February 23, 2026, with tribal representatives Tacante Thomas and David Ornelas. No concerns were raised by the tribe at that time. o On June 5, 2026 tribal representative Venesa Kremer requested that the City include an inadvertent discovery plan in the project avoidance and minimization measures and consultation was closed out June 5, 2026.

United Auburn Indian Community of the Auburn Rancheria Environmental Setting The UAIC is a federally recognized Tribe comprised of both Miwok and Maidu (Nisenan) Tribal members who are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the Proj ect area. The Tribe has a deep spiritual, cultural, and physical ties to their ancestral land and are contemporary stewards of their culture and landscapes. The Tribal community represents a continuity and endurance of their ancestors by maintaining their connection to their history and culture. It is the Tribe's goal to ensure the preservation and continuance of their cultural heritage for current and future generations.

Tribal Cultural Resources Identification Methodology and Results UAIC conducted background search for the identification of TCRs for this Project, which included a review of pertinent literature, historic maps, and a records sear ch using UAIC's Tribal Historic Information System (THRIS). UAIC's THRIS database is composed of UAIC's areas of oral history, ethnographic history, and places of cultural and religious significance, including UAIC Sacred Lands that are submitted to the NAHC.

The THRIS resources shown in this region also include previously recorded indigenous resources identified through the California Historic Resources Information System Center as well as historic resources and survey data. According to THRIS data, a TCR consisting of obsidian flakes, hand stones, basalt flakes, a metate fragment, and a projectile point, is less than a 1-mile radius of the Project area. No known TCRs are recorded in the Project area and much of the surrounding area has not been previously surveyed for cultural resources.

On February 3, 2026, UAIC Cultural Regulatory Coordinator Luz Salazar and Tribal Monitor Mike Malanoski conducted a tribal survey of the Project area. The survey was completed using archaeological and tribal methods to identify cultural resources or areas of cultural significance within the Project area. From UAIC records, Arcade and Cripple Creek are known to have cultural sensitivity.

Ground surface visibility of the project area is approximately <20% due to the density of grass and vegetation.

Native plants, such as Milk thistle, Soaproot, Miner's Lettuce, and Live Oak, were observed along Arcade Creek. The visible creek walls and trails showed a range of yellowish-brown sandy silt to sandy clay soil. The area showed signs of disturbance from a homeless encampment with hearths and clothes scattered around and near Arcade Creek.

Discussion
a.i.-ii. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As described in the Environmental Setting section above, according to the provision of PR C Section 21080.3, tribal consultation was opened on ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 91 January 7, 2026. Information provided by UAIC during consultation indicates that no known TCRs are recorded within the Project area. UAIC also reported that the survey did not identify any TCRs; however, there remains a moderate potential for the presence of buried TCRs. To reduce potential impacts to the TCRs to less than significant, three mitigation measures were developed (TCR-1 through TCR-2). With inclusion of these measures, impacts to TCRs would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
TCR-1 Unanticipated Discoveries of TCRs
If any suspected TCRs or resources of cultural significance to UAIC, including but not limited to features, anthropogenic/cultural soils, cultural bel ongings or objects (artifacts), shell, bone, shaped stones or bone, or ash/charcoal deposits are discovered by any person during construction activities including ground disturbing activities, all work shall pause immediately within 100 feet of the find, or an agreed upon distance based on the project area and nature of the find. Work shall cease in and within the immediate vicinity of the find regardless of whether the construction is being actively monitored by a Tribal Monitor, cultural resources specialist, or professional archaeologist.

TCR-2: Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Training
Cultural Awareness Training will be developed and provided to all personnel working in the Project area.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 92 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS -
Would the project:
a. Require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded water,
wastewater treatment or storm water drainage,
electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities, the construction
or relocation of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
X
b. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve
the project and reasonably foreseeable future
development during normal, dry and multiple dry
years?
X
c. Result in a determination by the waste water
treatment provider, which serves or may serve
the project that it has adequate capacity to serve
the project's projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
X
d. Generate solid waste in excess of state or local
standards, or in excess of the capacity of local
infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment
of solid waste reduction goals?
X
e. Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
X

The analysis presented in this section is based on the information provided in the General Plan, CCHGP EIR, and the resources cited in this analysis.

Environmental Setting
Water Supply
Water is the Project area is serviced by the Citrus Heights Water District (CHWD) (Citrus Heights 2011b). The CHWD encompasses the eastern two-thirds of the City. CHWD’s service population is approximately 66,000.

The estimated distribution of water in the CHWD includes 71% to single-family residential consumers and 9% to commercial and business users.

Wastewater Service
The Sacramento Regional County Sanitation and Sacramen to Area Sewer Districts (SRCSD) provides public wastewater conveyance, treatment, and disposal in the urbanized portions of Sacramento County. SRCSD is a publicly owned wastewater agency serving over one million people in the major Sacramento Metropolitan Area through its three contributing agencies: the City of Folsom; the City of Sacramento; and SASD, of which Citrus Heights and adjacent portions of unincorporated Sacramento County are a part. Under the Master Interagency Agreement that defines the operational, financial, and administrative responsibilities of the SRCSD, the County ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 93 of Sacramento and the Contributing Agencies, SRCSD is responsible for the planning and financing of any new sewer facilities (Citrus Heights 2011b).

Waste Management and Recycling
Solid waste collection services in the City are generally provided by private haulers through either a contract or franchise. The City currently contracts residential so lid waste collection and recycling services to Allied Waste Systems, a private waste disposal company. Reside ntial waste collection and recycling services in the City have been provided by Allied Waste Systems since January 1, 2006. Eight commercial haulers are currently franchised to provide commercial solid waste collection and recycling service in the City.

Discussion
a. Less than Significant. The proposed Project would construct an addition to the planned CCTP and would not increase population in the Project vicinity; therefore, there would be no additional wastewater flows as a result of Project development; or result in expanded wastewater treatment or stormwater drainage treatment.

The Project would add a net impervious surface of approximately 0.47 acre to the area due to the addition of pavement for the construction of the trail, but would direct runoff appropriately. The impervious surface generated by the Project is the minimum area practicable, incorporating the natural drainage courses in the Project area, and preserving the maximum numbers of existing native trees and shrubs possible. The proposed Project is not anticipated to generate excessive runoff, and the proposed Project would not include construction of new stormwater drainage facilities, or expansion of existing facilities.

Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
b. No Impact. The Project would not result in the need for new or expanded water supplies. There may be a temporary need for water during construction to control dust; however, it is not anticipated to result in the need for water supply beyond what is currently available, and no increase in demand for long- term water supply would be generated by the Project. No impact would occur. c. No Impact. The Project would not include the construction of any wastewater-generating uses. The Project would not increase population in the Proj ect vicinity, and there would be no additional wastewater flows as a result of the proposed Project; therefore, the Project would not result in the need for new or expanded wastewater facilities. No impact would occur. d. Less than Significant. Solid waste is not expected to be generated through use and operations of the proposed Project. Solid waste will be generated during construction; however, the amount will not substantially impact landfill capacities. This would not affect landfill capacity because the amounts would not be substantial and would occur for a shor t period of time during the 6-month construction period. A less than significant impact would occur.
e. No Impact. The Project would comply with all applicab le federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste including the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939). No impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 94 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XX. WILDFIRE – If located in or near state
responsibility areas or lands classified as very
high fire hazard severity zones, w ould the
project:

a. Substantially impair an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan? X
b. Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors,
exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose
project occupants to pollutant concentrations
from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a
wildfire?
X
c. Require the installation or maintenance of
associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel
breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or
other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or
that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts
to the environment?
X
d. Expose people or structures to significant risks,
including downslope or downstream flooding or
landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope
instability, or drainage changes?
X

Discussion
a-d. No Impact. According to the CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Seve rity Zone Map, the Project site is located within a LRA (CAL FIRE 2026). The surrounding land uses are also located within an LRA. The Project site and surrounding land uses are not within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (CAL FIRE 2026).

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project None.

Additional Project-Level Mitigation Measures
None required.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Not applicable.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 95 Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF

SIGNIFICANCE
a. Does the project have the potential to
substantially degrade the quality of the
environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a
fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels,
threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, substantially reduce the number or
restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or
animal or eliminate important examples of the
major periods of California history or prehistory?
X
b. Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable”
means that the incremental effects of a project are
considerable when viewed in connection with the
effects of past projects, the effects of other
current projects, and the effects of probable
future projects).

X
c. Does the project have environmental effects
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly?
X

Discussion
a. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Implementation of the Project would have the potential to degrade the quality of the existing envi ronment. Potential impacts have been identified related to Aesthetics, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Energy, Geology and Soils, Greenhouse Gases, Hazards and Hazardous Waste, Hydrology and Water Quality, Noise, Public Services, Transportation/Traffic, and Tribal Cultural Resources. Measures have been identified related to individual resource-specific impacts. See Appendix I for a summary of all mitigation measures, timing of implementation, and responsible party. Implementation of mitigation measures would reduce the level of all Project-related impacts to less than significant levels. Therefore, impacts are considered less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
b. Less Than Significant. CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(h) states that a lead agency shall consider whether the cumulative impact of a project is significant and whether the effects of the project are cumulatively considerable. The assessment of the significance of the cumulative effects of a project must therefore be conducted in connection with the ef fects of past projects, or other current projects, and probable future projects.

The proposed Project is consistent with the General Plan as the existing roadway classification for Sylvan Road will remain unchanged and the zoning and/or land use designations for adjacent areas will not be changed. After the City of Citrus Heights’ incorporation on January 1, 1997, the City of Citrus Heights Bikeway Master Plan includes this area as a proposed Class I bike lane, with the CCTP identifying 16 miles of feasible trail segments throughout the City of Citrus Heights including Arcade ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 96 Creek, Brooktree Creek, Cripple Creek, and the SMUD utility Corridor (City of Citrus Heights 2015).

The creek corridors are adjacent to residential and commercial areas which allow for increased connections and mobility options, including through natural areas. One of the goals of the General Plan is to “establish a system of creek side trails, passive open space and parks for public use.” CCTP will allow for a framework to meet this goal and create multi-use trails within the creek and SMUD utility corridors (City of Citrus Heights 2025c). Since the Project would construct an addition to the planned CCTP, it would not conflict with the General Plan or other relevant City of Citrus Heights plans (such as the Pedestrian Master Plan, Bikeway Master Plan, Safe Routes to School Master Plan, or ADA Master Plan).

The Project would make no significant contribution to cumulatively adverse impacts associated with existing or proposed development projects in the City as the Project would not directly generate vehicle trips. Construction of the proposed Project along with other construction in the City and Sacramento County would contribute to cumulative environmental impacts. However, the proposed Project’s contribution would be minimal considering the high ly developed land uses in the area. Therefore, impacts of the proposed Project related to cumulatively considerable impacts in the City of Citrus Heights and Sacramento County are considered less than significant. c. Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project would not cause significant or unavoidable adverse effects to human beings, either directly or indirectly with mitigation incorporated.

See Appendix I, for a summary of all mitigation measures, timing of implementation, and responsible party. All potentially significant impacts have been reduced to a less than significant level by mitigation measures related to individual resource-specific impacts:
x Aesthetics (VIS-1 and VIS-2)
x Air Quality (AQ-1),
x Biological Resources (BIO-1 through BIO-15),
x Cultural Resources (CR-1 and CR-2),
x Geology and Soils (CCHGP EIR Mitigation Measure 4.7-7), x Greenhouse Gases (CC-1)
x Hazards and Hazardous Materials (HM-1 and HM-2)
x Hydrology and Water Quality (WQ-1 through WQ-4),
x Noise (NOI-1),
x Public Services (LU-1)
x Transportation/Traffic (LU-2), and
x Tribal Cultural Resources (TCR-1 through TCR-2).

Mitigation Measures from CCHGP EIR that apply to the Project CCHGP EIR Mitigation Measure 4.7-7 is applicable to the proposed Project.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 97 Additional Project Level Mitigation Measures
See Appendix I for all Project specific measures.

Significance Determination with Mitigation Measures
Less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 98 SECTION 5.0 - AGENCY COORDINATION

This section summarizes the City of Citrus Heights’ efforts to identify, address and resolve Project-related issues through early and continuing coordination.

Consultation and Coordination with Public Agencies

Coordination with the following agencies was initiated for the Project:

x California Department of Transportation
x Native American Heritage Commission.
x California Department of Fish and Wildlife

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 99 SECTION 6.0 - REFERENCES

CARB. 2024. Overview: Diesel and Exhaust Health. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/overview-diesel- exhaust-and-health. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

CARB. 2023. Sacramento Regional 2015 NAAQS 8-Hour Ozone Attainment and Reasonable Further Progress Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-09/CARB%20Staff%20Report%20- %202023%20Sac%20Ozone%20SIP.pdf. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

CARB. 2013. The California Almanac of Emissions and Air Quality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our- work/programs/resource-center/technical-assistance/air-quality-and-emissions-data/almanac. (Accessed 3/4/2026)
California Department of Conservation (DOC). 2025a. Important Farmland Finder. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/. (Accessed 3/4/2026) California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). 2026. Fire Hazard Severity Zones. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/fire-hazard- severity-zones. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2011a: General Plan. https://www.citrusheights.net/202/General-Plan. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2011b: Final Environmental Impact Report. City of Citrus Heights General Plan Update and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan. https://www.citrusheights.net/204/Environmental- Impact-Report. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2015. Citrus Heights Bikeway Master Plan Update. www.citrusheights.net/DocumentCenter/View/4246/Bikeway-Master-Plan-2015Council- Approved121015?bidId=. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2016. Citrus Heights Pedestrian Master Plan Update. www.citrusheights.net/DocumentCenter/View/5289/City-Council-DRAFT-Pedestrian-Master-Plan- PDF. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2025. Creek Corridor Trail Project. Available at:
https://www.citrusheights.net/546/Creek-Corridor-Trail-Project. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

City of Citrus Heights. 2026. GIS Data Download.
https://services1.arcgis.com/5NARefyPVtAeuJPU/arcgis/rest/services/GeneralPlan/FeatureServer (accessed 3/4/2026)
Dokken Engineering (Dokken). 2026a. Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA Dokken. 2026b. Air Quality Technical Memorandum. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA
Dokken. 2026c. Natural Environment Study. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

Dokken. 2026d. Archaeological Survey Report. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

Dokken. 2026e. Water Quality Technical Memorandum. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

Dokken. 2026f. Community Impact Assessment Memorandum. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT 100
Dokken. 2026g. Noise Technical Memorandum. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

Federal Transit Administration. 2006. Available at:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/handbook/handbook09.cfm (Accessed 3/4/2026).

Geocon. 2026. Hazardous Waste Initial Site Assessment. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project. Folsom, CA.

Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD). 2020. Guide to Air Quality Assessment in Sacramento County. https://www.airquality.org/businesses/ceqa-land-use- planning/ceqa-guidance-tools. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

SMAQMD. 2023. Sacramento Regional 2015 NAAQS 8-Hour Ozone Attainment & Reasonable Further Progress Plan. Available at:
https://www.airquality.org/ProgramCoordination/Documents/Sacramento%20Regional%202015%20 NAAQS%208%20Hour%20Ozone%20Attainment%20and%20Reasonable%20Further%20Progress %20Plan.pdf. (Accessed 3/4/2026).

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT

APPENDIX A: Visual Impact Assessment
Memorandum

ITEM 9
Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project
District 3—SAC
CRP 5475 (053)
Prepared by: _________________________________ Date:

Dorienne Mendoza
Associate Environmental Planner, Dokken Engineering
Concurred by: ________________________________Date:

T. Chris Johnson, PLA, CA License #5102 Landscape Architect District 3 North Region Local Assistance
Statement of Compliance: Produced in compliance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements, as appropriate, to meet the level of analysis and documentation that has been determined necessary for this project.

Per Exhibit D, Article XVIII, Section A. (1) of the contract: (c) 2020 California Department of Transportation.
_____________
son, PLA
,
CA L
5/06/2026

ITEM 9
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail i | P a g e Vi sual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project March 2026
Table of Contents
1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Purpose of Report and Assessment Methodology .............................................. 1 2 Establishment Phase ............................................................................................... 1

2.1 Project Location and Setting ............................................................................... 1

2.2 Project Description .............................................................................................. 1

2.3 Description of Area of Visual Effect ..................................................................... 4

2.4 Visual Resources and Scenic Resources ............................................................ 4 3 Inventory Phase ....................................................................................................... 7

3.1 Description of Landscape Visual Character ........................................................ 7

3.2 Description of Landscape Visual Quality ............................................................. 8

3.3 Viewers ............................................................................................................... 9

3.4 Viewpoints ......................................................................................................... 10 4 Analysis Phase....................................................................................................... 10

4.1 Evaluation of Visual Impact ............................................................................... 10 5 Mitigation Phase (Environmental Commitments) ............................................... 14

5.1 Recommendations for Environmental Commitment Measures ......................... 14 6 Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 15 7 References ............................................................................................................. 16

List of Appendices
Appendix A: Scoping Questionnaire

ITEM 9
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail ii | P a g e Vi sual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project March 2026
List of Figures
Figure 1. Project Vicinity .................................................................................................. 2 Figure 2. Project Location ............................................................................................... 3 Figure 3. Project Features ............................................................................................... 5 Figure 4. Area of Visual Effect ......................................................................................... 6 List of Tables
Table 4-1 Visual Change with Environmental Commitments .......... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Table 4-2 Visual Change without Environmental Commitments .................................... 10 Table 4-3 Visual Impact with Environmental Commitments ........... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Table 4-4 Visual Impact without Environmental Commitments ..................................... 12 List of Acronyms and Abbreviations
AVE Area of Visual Effect
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CCTP Creek Corridor Trail Project
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
City City of Citrus Heights
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
Handbook Caltrans 2023 VIA Handbook
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
Project Visual Impact Assessment Memo randum for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project
VIA Visual Impact Assessment

ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 1 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose of Report and Assessment Methodology
The purpose of this Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) memorandum is to document potential visual change in the Area of Visual Effect (AVE). This memorandum follows the guidance outlined in the publication Guidelines for the Visual Impact Assessment of Highway Projects, published by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in January 2015. The formatting of this template is aligned with the directions and examples included in the Caltrans 2023 VIA Handbook (Handbook), available at:
https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-visual-impact-assessment. 2 Establishment Phase
The Establishment Phase consisted primarily of a desk assessment of available data about the Project and establishment of basic visual attributes of the Project and its surroundings. The scoping Questionnaire was completed, and the level of VIA report determined; the Scoping Questionnaire is attached as Appendix A.

2.1 Project Location and Setting
The Arcade-Cripple Creek (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project (Project) location and setting provide context for determining the type of changes to the existing visual environment. The proposed Project will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road in the City of Citrus Heights (City) in Sacramento County, California (Figure 1. Project Vicinity and Figure 2.

Project Location). The Project is in the Sacramento Valley Floristic Province of California. As the Project is in the Sacramento Valley, the landscape is mostly flat with no significant landforms. Land cover within the Project area consists of urban, perennial stream channel (Arcade Creek) and unnamed tributary, water quality/detention basins, annual grassland, oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats. Urban areas include Sylvan Road and commercial/residential development surrounding the Project area.

Natural land cover is present in the undeveloped areas, located primarily adjacent to the proposed trail alignment.

2.2 Project Description
The City of Citrus Heights (City) proposes to construct a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16-mile Creek Corridor Trail Project (CCTP) as part of the proposed Project. The Project is funded through the federal Carbon Reduction Program and therefore requires compliance with both the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The lead agency for CEQA compliance is the City and the federal lead agency for NEPA compliance is the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

As described previously, the Project is located in the City and will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road.

The proposed alignment begins south of the Walmart property boundary and proceeds ITEM 9

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Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 4 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 east through the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, curving south around Walmart’s water quality detention basin. The alignment continues north, crossing a tributary of Arcade Creek, and traverses along the south side of the Huntington Square Apartments complex prior to connecting to Sylvan Road. The alignment terminates east of Sylvan Road at the location of a planned future trail extension segment from Sylvan Road to Mariposa Avenue. The Project has independent utility and would function as a stand- alone improvement.

Project Features). Construction activities will involve grading to achieve ADA-compliant slopes, installing the creek crossing, paving the trail, erecting the solar lighting, constructing bank protection, and adding pedestrian signal infrastructure with minor utility adjustments as needed.

To accommodate construction, right-of-way (ROW) acquisitions will be required from several parcels. These include a permanent easement and permit to enter (PTE) from the Sunrise Recreation & Park District and a TCE from Walmart. An existing trail easement exists across the Huntington Square Apartments property and there is potential for this permanent easement to be modified to best incorporate the trail alignment with the physical site features.

Construction access will be provided primarily through the Walmart parking lot under a TCE, as well as a permit to enter for access from the Huntington Square Apartments parcel. These provisions will allow safe and efficient construction of the trail and its associated improvements.

2.3 Description of Area of Visual Effect
The Area of Visual Effect (AVE) for the Project was developed based on perspective views of the road and from the road and the location of proposed Project features.

Figure 4. Area of Visual Effect presents a map showing the AVE.

2.4 Visual Resources and Scenic Resources
Scenic resource and visual resource identification during the Establishment Phase was conducted based on a desktop search of available maps, regional and local plans, and other databases. In the context discussed in this memorandum, “scenic resources” are those officially designated by federal, state, regional, tribal, or local authorities; “visual resources” are those that exist in the Project AVE without being officially recognized.

National Scenic Byway Designation
The Project area does not contain or have views of any officially designated National Scenic Byways (FHWA 2026).

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Area of Visual Effect
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
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ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 7 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 State Scenic Highway Designation
The Project area does not contain or have views of any state scenic highways (Caltrans 2026).

Classified Landscaped Freeway
The Project area does not reside within a classified landscaped freeway (Caltrans 2026).

Local Scenic Resources
The City General Plan was adopted in August 2011 and most recently amended in August 2020. Section 4.12 Aesthetics of the General Plan Update and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) describes the visual character of the City as primarily suburban and largely developed with medium to high-density residential and commercial land uses located adjacent to major transportation corridors.

Generally, low density residential uses can be found in the north-central portion of the City, characterized by rural, small-scale hobby farming/ranching with limited curb, gutter, and sidewalks. Undeveloped, natural habitats are predominantly limited to riparian areas along creeks and undeveloped grassland and oak savanna scattered throughout the City. Chapter 3 Resource Conservation of the General Plan describes the City’s oak tree, wildlife habitat, creeks and riparian areas as unique, visual resources that stand apart from the urban environment (City 2020). In most areas, long- range views are limited to the immediate neighborhood because of the relatively flat topography. An exception is the northwest planning area, which may provide views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains on clear days. There are no areas within the City that provide views of any scenic vistas that are considered significant by the City (City 2011).
3 Inventory Phase

3.1 Description of Landscape Visual Character
The existing visual character of the AVE is dominated by the natural environment with moderate views of the surrounding urban areas including Sylvan Road and commercial/residential development.

As described previously in Section 2.1, the natural environment consists of the perennial stream channel (Arcade Creek) and unnamed tributary, water quality/detention basins, annual grassland, oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats. The existing lines in the natural environment are irregular and the form is heterogeneous. The vegetation in this area varies from deep greens to browns depending on the season and the texture is rough. Within the AVE, the cultural environment consists of residential housing, Sylvan Road, Huntington Square Apartments complex, Walmart parking lot, fences and ornamental plantings. Outside of the AVE, the cultural environment consists of other commercial developments adjacent to Walmart within the larger commercial center and medium to high density residential development. The residential houses, Huntington Square Apartments complex and ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 8 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 Walmart contain horizontal and vertical lines and neutral coloring. The ornamental plantings, which are planted south of Walmart’s parking lot, are green and spherical shaped.

Lastly, the AVE consists of the segment of Sylvan Road between the residential streets of Sylvan Valley Way and Sylvan Creek Court, utility poles, street lighting, roadway signs and sidewalk on either side of Sylvan Road. Sylvan Road has straight lines, is colored gray with yellow and white lines to delineate the road as necessary and is made of smooth-textured concrete. Sylvan Road has two lanes going northbound, two lanes going southbound and a center turn lane. Sylvan Valley Way and Sylvan Creek Court are located north and south of the Project area; respectively. The utility poles contain vertical lines and contain brown coloring as well as grey coloring. The utility lines that connect the utility poles are thin horizontal lines with grey and/or black coloring. The existing roadway signs vary in shape and are supported by thin gray cylindrical forms made of galvanized steel with smooth texture. The signs vary in color, either yellow, green, or red and are also made of galvanized steel with smooth texture. Lastly, the undeveloped land within the project site contains the same visual character described for the natural environment.

Existing lighting in the area consists of streetlights along Sylvan Road and the residential streets as well as lighting from residential houses and commercial developments. Signage for street names and Arcade Creek are attached to light poles on either side of Sylvan Road.

The Project will be retaining dominant linear features in the area but will also introduce new linear features including the paved trail, a new prefabricated bridge across the unnamed creek tributary, bank protection along a segment of Arcade Creek, and an at- grade signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road. The Project will positively influence the Project environment by introducing an aesthetically pleasing pedestrian multi-use trail and prefabricated bridge but will negatively influence the natural environment by introducing human made features into a partially undeveloped natural area.

3.2 Description of Landscape Visual Quality
Vividness of the overall landscape is considered memorable as the dominant visual element is the natural environment, which consists of annual grassland, Arcade Creek and its unnamed tributary, riparian and oak woodlands. The cultural environment consists of the developed land within the AVE, specifically the Walmart commercial center, Huntington Square Apartments and medium-density residential development, including Sylvan Road and associated features. Intactness is moderate since the Walmart commercial center and high to medium-density residential developments disrupt the landscape character. Unity is also moderate as there is generally a filtered view of the Walmart commercial center and surrounding residential development which creates disruptions in viewing continuity from the proposed trail alignment.

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Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 9 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026

3.3 Viewers
There are two major types of viewer groups: neighbors and travelers.

Neighbors are people who have views to the trail. For this Project, neighbors include:
x Residents
x Institutional viewers (workers/patrons at the commercial businesses in the vicinity)
Travelers are people who have views from the trail. For this Project, travelers include:
x Bicyclists
x Pedestrians
As previously described, the Project will include a paved trail, a new prefabricated bridge across the unnamed creek tributary, solar lighting, and bank protection along a segment of Arcade Creek within a natural environment, which may be considered of local scenic value. Both viewer sensitivity and viewpoint sensitivity is considered moderate, neighbors (people with views to the transportation project), travelers (people with views from the transportation project), and viewpoints will be affected by the proposed Project. See below for an analysis regarding viewer and viewpoint sensitivity.

Viewer Sensitivity
To determine viewer sensitivity, three attributes for viewer exposure (proximity, extent or number of viewers, and duration) and three attributes for viewer awareness (attention, focus, and protection) were evaluated.

The neighbors viewer groups would have moderate viewer exposure since they are in proximity to the Project features. The extent would be moderate as a moderate number of individuals would have direct views of the Project features, and duration would be high due to their fixed position. For the neighbors viewers group, viewer awareness is moderate as individuals in this viewer group would be observant of the proposed changes and are likely to value the natural environment that covers most of the Project area; however, neighbors would have a broad and general view of the area, resulting in less sensitivity to visual changes.

For the traveler viewer group, viewer exposure would be considered moderately low due to the limited available viewpoints, primarily from the proposed pedestrian signal crossing and the broad views from Walmart’s rear parking lot, which is predominantly occupied by large delivery trucks. The duration of exposure would range from moderately low to low, as travelers are typically passing through the area rather than remaining stationary. Viewer awareness would be moderately low since individuals in this viewer group would be preoccupied with other activities, have a broad and general view of the area, but are likely to value the natural setting of the proposed Project.

Overall viewer sensitivity for neighbors and travelers is moderate.

ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 10 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 Viewpoint Sensitivity
Viewpoint sensitivity is a judgment of the scenic importance of a viewpoint and whether it is part of an identified scenic resource. Sensitive viewpoints can be scenic or visual resources, vistas, landscape, or ocean views important to neighbors or travelers.

The natural environment containing Arcade Creek is considered a local scenic resource according to the Citrus Heights General Plan. However, filtered views of the Walmart commercial center and adjacent high to medium-density residences distracts from this resource. Therefore, viewpoint sensitivity is considered moderate.

3.4 Viewpoints
Viewpoints can be vistas, open landscape views, ocean views, views of important mountains, views of historic or attractive buildings, rock outcrops, heritage trees, tree groves etc. The importance of each viewpoint is determined by the level of scenic resource designation, the distance of the scenic or visual resource, and the visual quality of the scenic or visual resource. As stated above in Section 3.3 Viewpoint Sensitivity, the natural environment containing Arcade Creek is considered a local scenic resource according to the Citrus Heights General Plan. 4 Analysis Phase

4.1 Evaluation of Visual Impact
Visual impact is determined by combining visual change and visual sensitivity, both of which are analyzed below:

Visual Change
After analyzing visual compatibility and visual contrast as it relates to the proposed Project, it was determined that the overall visual change in the existing natural, cultural and Project environments created by the proposed Project will be moderately adverse.

See Tables 4-1 and visual compatibility and contrast analyses below for more information.

Table 4-1 Visual Change wit hout Environmental Commitments Visual Compatibility Visual Contrast Visual Change
Slightly Adverse Moderately Adverse Moderately Adverse

Visual Compatibility
The proposed Project’s visual compatibility is analyzed by comparing the fit of the Project’s visual character, intactness, lighting and glare with the same attributes of the natural, cultural and existing Project environments.

The existing visual character within the Project area is dominated by the natural environment; however, there are views of the Walmart commercial center and high to ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 11 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 medium-density residential that surrounds the Project area, including direct views of Sylvan Road at the proposed pedestrian signal crossing. Due to the construction of the proposed trail, installation of the prefabricated bridge over the unnamed tributary of Arcade Creek and the bank stabilization, the Project would remove 0.20 acre of annual grassland, 0.02 acre of oak woodland, and 0.01 acre of perennial stream channel and

0.20 acre of riparian woodland habitat. In total, the Project would remove approximately

0.42 acre of vegetation and 0.01 acre of waters. Therefore, the Project will exhibit a decrease in vegetation colors and textures and an increase grey color and human-made textures. Within the Project area, these habitats comprise 12.66 acres; thus, removal of

0.42 acre of vegetation and 0.01 acre of waters would impact a small percentage of the natural environment that contributes to the visual character of the area. Temporary impacts to these habitats due to construction activities, such as the cut and fill areas, etc. are also anticipated; however, visual change would be minimized with implementation of BIO-2, BIO-5 and BIO-6 from the 2026 Natural Environment Study.

The prefabricated bridge over the unnamed tributary of Arcade Creek would introduce a large horizontal element to the natural environment in addition to the proposed paved trail. However, these Project features would minimally obstruct views of the natural environment. To further minimize visual change, aesthetic treatments will be applied to all Project features to complement the visual character of the area, per VIS-1.

The Project would also have a slightly adverse effect on intactness since it would introduce human-made features to an undeveloped open area. Lastly, the proposed Project would install solar lighting along the length of the trail. This lighting is not anticipated to result in substantial new light and glare impacts as the lights would be downcast to minimize glare, per VIS-2. Additionally, surrounding light from adjacent developed areas would still dominate the area.

Although the environmental commitments listed above would minimize visual change, visual compatibility of the proposed Project with the existing natural, cultural, and Project environments would remain slightly adverse with and without implementation of the environmental commitments since the surrounding area is highly urbanized and a small percentage of vegetation that contributes to the visual character of the area would be removed or impacted by Project.

Visual Contrast
The proposed Project’s visual contrast is analyzed by comparing the fit of the Project’s vividness and unity with the same attributes of the natural, cultural and existing Project environments.

Currently, vividness of the overall landscape is moderate as the dominate visual element is the natural environment, and unity is moderate since the Walmart commercial center, high to medium-density residential and the natural environment are not balanced or in scale with each other. Applying aesthetic treatments on the prefabricated bridge, per VIS-1, will increase vividness by providing a memorable structure that compliments the natural environment. Although the removal of 0.42 acre of vegetation would impact a small percentage of vegetation in the area, vividness of the area would be decreased as a result of the Project. As such, BIO-2, BIO-5 and BIO- ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 12 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 6 would be implemented to minimize visual change related to the removal of vegetation.

Lastly, unity of the natural environment would decrease since the Project would introduce new human-made features. Overall, the visual contrast of the proposed Project with the existing natural, cultural, and Project environments will have a moderately adverse effect, as construction of the proposed trail and prefabricated bridge without aesthetic treatments would decrease vividness of the area.

With implementation of environmental commitments (BIO-2, BIO-5, BIO-6, VIS-1 and VIS-2), the visual contrast of the proposed Project with the existing natural, cultural and Project environments will have a slightly adverse effect.

Visual Sensitivity
As discussed in Section 3.3, the overall visual sensitivity to the proposed Project in the existing natural, cultural, and Project environments will be moderate.

Visual Impact
After analysis of visual change and visual sensitivity, the visual impact was determined based on visual change and visual sensitivity descriptions, in accordance with Table 4-6 in the Handbook. Without implementation of the environmental commitments, the overall visual impact of the proposed Project on the existing natural, cultural, and Project environments will be moderately low adverse, see Table 4-2.

As visual change and sensitivity are of equal importance, with implementation of the environmental commitments, the overall visual impact of the proposed Project on the existing natural, cultural, and Project environments will be very low adverse, see Table 4-3.

Table 4-2 Visual Impact with out Environmental Commitments Visual Change Visual Sensitivity Visual Impact
Moderately Adverse Moderate Moderately Low Adverse

Table 4-3 Visual Impact with Environmental Commitments
Visual Change Visual Sensitivity Visual Impact
Slightly Adverse Moderate Very Low Adverse

CEQA Checklist Aesthetics questions:

Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? According to the General Plan Update and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan Final EIR, there are no areas within the City that provide views of any scenic ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 13 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 vistas that are considered significant by the City (City 2011). Therefore, there would be no impact.
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? The Project area does not contain or have views of any state scenic highways (Caltrans 2026). Therefore, there would be no impact.
c) In nonurbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage point). If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality?
The Project is located in the City of Citrus Heights, which is an urbanized area.

Zoning within the Project area is a mixture of Open Space, General Commercial, and Medium Density Residential designations. The Project would construct a 0.5- mile addition to the planned 16-mile CCTP. As such, the proposed Project would be consistent with the existing zoning. Additionally, per VIS-1, aesthetic treatments would be applied to all Project features to minimize aesthetic impacts, ensuring that the Project would not conflict with regulations governing scenic quality, including the City of Citrus Heights Design Guidelines. d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
The solar lighting along the trail would be downcast to minimize glare per measure VIS-2. Impacts to Aesthetics under CEQA will be less than significant.

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Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 14 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 5 Mitigation Phase (Environmental Commitments)

5.1 Recommendations for Environmental Commitment Measures Environmental commitments have been proposed to lessen the visual impact of the Project, which may also help generate public acceptance of a Project. Environmental commitments will be designed and implemented by the City of Citrus Heights.

The following environmental commitments, identified in the 2026 Natural Environment Study, are proposed to avoid or minimize the Project’s adverse visual effects as a result of vegetation removal and to enhance visual character and aesthetic quality:

BIO-2: Prior to the start of construction activities, the Project limits adjacent to the Ar- cade Creek, the Arcade Creek tributary and the riparian woodland habitat will be marked with flagging, staking, or high visibility fencing to ensure construc- tion will not further encroach into adjacent sensitive resources.

BIO-6: Following the completion of construction, all temporary effects to riparian woodland, annual grassland and oak woodland habitat will be recontoured and re-seeded at a 1:1 ratio, to allow for the habitat to return to its previous function. All temporarily disturbed areas will be seeded with a Project biolo- gist-approved native seed mix. Any trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for through replant- ing or other methods in coordination with CDFW and the City of Citrus Heights.

As a result of the analysis described above, the following environmental commitments are also proposed to avoid or minimize the Project’s adverse visual effects and to enhance visual character and aesthetic quality:

VIS-1: Aesthetic treatments on the new paved trail and prefabricated bridge over Ar- cade Creek will be consistent with other trails and bridges along the CCTP.

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Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 15 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026

VIS-2: Lighting along the trail will be downcast to minimize glare. The Project’s light- ing design must be consistent with the City Citrus Heights lighting guidelines and standards.
6 Conclusions
The proposed Project will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road in the City of Citrus Heights in Sacramento County, California. There would be no substantial impacts on scenic highways, scenic vistas, or eligible or listed historic structures.

The overall visual impact of the proposed Project without implementation of the environmental commitments, listed in Section 5, will be moderately low adverse.

However, with implementation of BIO-2, BIO-5, BIO-6, VIS-1 and VIS-2, visual impacts will be minimized. As part of the Project, aesthetic treatments will be applied to the paved trail, prefabricated bridge, and at-grade signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road. With implementation of the environmental commitments, visual impact was determined to be very low adverse.

ITEM 9

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail 16 | Page Visual Impact Assessment Memorandum (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project May 2026 7 References
Caltrans. Classified “Landscaped Freeways”. 2026. Available at: <https://dot.ca.gov/pro- grams/design/lap-landscape-architecture-and-community-livability/lap-liv-b-clas- sified-landscaped-freeways/modified-clf-master-list>

Caltrans. Arcade Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project - Natural Environment Study (Minimal Impact). 2026.

Caltrans. VIA for Projects on State Highway System. 2023. Available at:
<https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-visual-impact-assessment>

Caltrans. Visual Impact Assessment Handbook. 2023. Available at: < https://dot.ca.gov/- /media/dot-media/programs/design/documents/via-handbook--a11y.pdf>

Caltrans. Visual Impact Assessment Handbook Appendix. 2023. Available at:
<https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot-media/programs/design/documents/via-hand- book-appendix-a11y.pdf>

Caltrans. Visual Impact Assessment Handbook Glossary. 2023. Available at:
<https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot-media/programs/design/documents/viahand- bookglossarya11ypdf.pdf>

Caltrans. Scenic Highways. California State Scenic Highways. 2026. Available at:
<https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape-architecture-and-community- livability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways>

City of Citrus Heights. General Plan. 2020. Available at: < https://www.cit- rusheights.net/201/General-Plan >

City of Citrus Heights. General Plan Update Draft Environmental Impact Report. 2011.

Available at: < https://www.citrusheights.net/204/Environmental-Impact-Report >

FHWA. National Scenic Byways & All-American Roads. 2026. Available at:
<https://fhwaapps.fhwa.dot.gov/bywaysp/States/Show/CA>

ITEM 9

Appendix A: Scoping Questionnaire
ITEM 9

Landscape Architecture
Scoping Questionnaire
to Determine
Visual Impact Assessment Level
August 2023
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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 1 | Page
Introduction
This questionnaire assists the qualified visual impact assessment (VIA) preparer (i.e., California Licensed Landscape Architect) in determining whether a VIA report is needed, in estimating the potential visual impacts of a proposed project on the environment, and in understanding the degree and breadth of the possible visual impact issues. The goal is to develop VIA documentation that is appropriate to the scale of the project and is thorough, concise, and defensible.

Enter basic information about the project and its visual context, visual resource regulatory context, and the expected visual change and sensitivity in the Baseline Information Form and then consider each of the 12 questions below. The resulting score will serve as a guide to help determine the appropriate level of VIA documentation for the project. For some projects with no or minimal visual impact, this questionnaire is all that is necessary. Both capital and maintenance projects should be reviewed. Select the response that most closely applies to the proposed project. The score is automatically computed at the bottom of the questionnaire. The total score should be matched to one of the four groups of scores at the end of the questionnaire that include recommended levels of VIA documentation (i.e., this completed questionnaire, VIA memorandum, standard VIA report, and advanced VIA report) and reference to associated annotated outlines for these documents.

Use the scoring system as a preliminary guide rather than a substitute for professional analysis on the part of the preparer. Although the total score may recommend a lower level of VIA document, circumstances associated with any one of the 12 questions may indicate the need to elevate the VIA to a greater level of detail. For projects on the State Highway System, the District Landscape Architect should be consulted when scoping the VIA level and provide concurrence on the findings of this questionnaire.

Preparer Qualifications
The Standard Environmental Reference, Volume I: Chapter 27-Visual & Aesthetics Review (website link) lists preparer qualifications for conducting the visual impact assessment process:
“Scenic Resource Evaluations and VIAs are performed under the direction of licensed Landscape Architects. Landscape Architects receive formal training in the area of visual resource management with a curriculum that emphasizes environmental design, human factors, and context sensitive solutions. When recommending specific visual mitigation measures, Landscape Architects can appropriately weigh the benefits of these different measures and consider construction feasibility and maintainability.” This questionnaire shall be prepared by, or under the direct supervision of a California Licensed Landscape Architect. It shall be signed and stamped by that Landscape ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 2 | Page
Architect, and written concurrence shall be provided by the District Landscape Architect (for projects on State Highway System).

Project and Visual Context Baseline Information
Project and visual context baseline information is gathered early in the Establishment Phase of the VIA process to identify key information and issues applicable to the preparation of the VIA Scoping Questionnaire. Should the baseline information change in the course of the project, the questionnaire should be updated accordingly.

Gathering of the baseline information may be accomplished through desktop research, field reconnaissance, coordination with the Caltrans environmental and project development teams, and consultation with key stakeholders. The Caltrans VIA Handbook (website link) includes further information about the Establishment Phase.

Complete the following Baseline Information Form to document the baseline project and visual resource information that was available at the time of preparation of the questionnaire:

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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 3 | Page
Project and Visual Context Baseline Information Form
Project Name: Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project
EA or EFIS Number CRP 5475(053)
Project Location (Dist-Co-Rte-
PM):
3-SAC

Questionnaire Preparer Name
and CA LA License Number:

Amy Bakker, Senior Environmental Planner
District Landscape Architect
(DLA) Providing Concurrence,
CA LA Lic. #:

Visual Features of Project and
its Alternative(s).

Proposes to construct the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail
(Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project, a 0.5-
mile addition to the planned 16-mile Creek Corridor
Trail Project (CCTP). The purpose of this project is
to close a gap in the existing trail system by
replacing dirt and narrow concrete paths with an
ADA-compliant Class I multi-use trail and pedestrian
crossing over a tributary to Arcade Creek.. This
extension will enhance pedestrian and bicycle
connectivity, provide a safe recreational facility, and improve access through the Arcade Creek greenbelt.

The project is located within an urban setting with
residential structures and riparian vegetation.

Vegetation removal is necessary to construct the
project, but the low profile and narrow swath of the
paved trail represents a minimal interruption to the
creek riparian setting, which already contains a
gravel path and paved roadways.

Form & Line: Gently curving trail alignment following
the creek’s contours; linear elements could include
signage.

Color: Black paved surface with decomposed
granite shoulders, muted greens and browns from
surrounding vegetation, grays from bridge
infrastructure, blacks from the roadway.

Texture: Smooth paved surface, rough natural
terrain, and vegetative softness.

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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 4 | Page
Scale: Human-scale infrastructure; low vertical
profile.

Vertical Elements: Bridge structure overhead,
possible retaining walls or railings, signage posts,
rock slope protection.

Additional Visual Context
Remarks:

The project exhibits visual coherence through:
x Consistent trail design standards.
x Integration with existing trail, sidewalk, and
urban infrastructure.
x Landscaping that transitions naturally
between natural and urban.
x Use of materials and forms that reflect both
natural and urban contexts.

Regulatory Framework
Potential Agencies that may
have to be Involved:
܈Federal ܈State ܈Local ܈Tribal ܆ Other
Notes: Caltrans (on behalf of FHWA): City of Citrus
Heights
Visual Change and Sensitivity
Landscape Observations: ܈Water ܆Visually dominant landforms ܈ Natural vegetation
܆Visually Appealing Structures ܆ Other features
of interest
Notes: Arcade Creek is present throughout the
project area.

Impact of Project on Natural,
Cultural, and Existing Project
Environments:
܈Highly compatible ܆Moderately compatible ܆
Not compatible ܆Other
Notes: The proposed work would connect to an
existing trail segment within an urban setting that is
adjacent to a creek.

Landscape Context and
Development Patterns:
܈Natural/Undeveloped ܆Rural ܆Suburban
܈Urban
Notes: The Project Area of Visual Effect contains an
existing gravel trail, riparian corridor, Arcade Creek, paved roadways, curb/gutter, recreational park and
residential homes.

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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 5 | Page
Scenic, Visual and Historic
Resource(s) within the Area
of Visual Effect:
܆Officially designated State Scenic Highway ܆
Eligible Scenic Highway
܈Visual resources ܆Federally (or otherwise)
designated historic, scenic resource
Notes: The creek and adjacent riparian vegetation
are natural components set within a very urbanized
setting.

Expected Agency
Involvement:

City of Citrus Heights, Caltrans, California
Department of Fish and Wildlife, US Army Corps of
Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board,
Native American Groups
Expected Public Feedback: ܆Scenic resources identified as important ܈ Not important
܆No public feedback
Notes: The City received positive public feedback in
favor of filling in gaps within the existing City trail network during the public outreach conducted for the
overall 16-mile Creek Corridor Trail Project.

܆܆

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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 6 | Page
Regulatory Context 0

1. Does the project’s aesthetic approach appear to be consistent with applicable laws, ordinances, regulations, policies, or standards? 0 Although the State is not required to comply with regional and local planning ordinances and other regulations, these documents are critical in understanding the importance that communities place on visual resources. The Caltrans Environmental Planning branch may have copies of the planning documents that pertain to the project. If not, this information can be obtained by contacting the local planning department.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o Low Consistency (4 Points)
o Moderate Consistency (3 Points)
o High Consistency (2 Points)
o Not Applicable (1 Point)
2 - Assumptions/Issues: Adheres to all current Caltrans, City, and State applicable laws, ordinances, regulations, policies, or standards, including the City’s General Plan.
0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 7 | Page

2. Will permits be required by outside regulatory agencies (i.e., federal, state, or local)?
0 Permit requirements can have an unintended consequence on the visual environment. Anticipated permits, as well as specific permit requirements may be determined by talking with the project Environmental Planner and Project Engineer. Note: coordinate with the Caltrans representative responsible for obtaining the permit prior to communicating directly with any permitting agency.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o Yes, both federal and state, or multiple permits required (4 Points)
o Yes, either federal, or state, or federal and local, or state and local (3 Points)
o Yes, local or multiple local only (2 Points)
o No (1 Point)
4 - Assumptions/issues: To construct the project, impacts to a tributary of Arcade Creek will occur due to grading and rock slope protection installation. Permitting through the US Army Corps of Engineers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Regional Water Quality Control Board will be obtained. 0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 8 | Page
Visual Change 0

3. Will the project character be compatible with the visual character of the existing landscape?
0 Consider the types of adverse changes to the scenic integrity of the landscape caused by the project. Evaluate the scale and extent of the project features compared to the surrounding scale of the community.

Is the project likely to give an urban appearance to an existing rural or suburban community?
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o No Compatibility (4 Points)
o Low Compatibility (3 Points)
o Moderate Compatibility (2 Points)
o High Compatibility (1 Point)
1 - Assumptions/issues: The proposed work, a paved trail segment, would connect to an existing trail system within an urban setting that crosses a creek. The urban setting includes an existing gravel path, recreational park, Arcade Creek, paved roadways, curb/gutter, and residential homes.
0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 9 | Page

4. Will the project contrast adversely with the memorability (vividness), natural harmony and/or cultural order (unity) of the existing landscape?
0 Evaluate the scale and extent of the project features compared to the scale of the visual elements within the surroundings. Is the project likely to change the appearance in a way that is contrasting with the line, color, form, and texture of the existing landscape visual character?
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High Adverse Contrast (4 Points)
o Moderate Adverse Contrast (3 Points)
o Low Adverse Contrast (2 Points)
o No Contrast (1 Point)
2 Assumptions/issues:

Memorability (Vividness)
The trail’s visual features will be memorable due to the contrast and harmony between natural and urban elements:

Form & Line: Gently curving trail alignment following the creek’s contours; linear elements could include signage.

Color: Black paved surface with decomposed granite shoulders, muted greens and browns from surrounding vegetation, grays from bridge infrastructure, blacks from the roadway.

Texture: Smooth paved surface, rough natural terrain, and vegetative softness.

Scale: Human-scale infrastructure; low vertical profile.

Vertical Elements: Bridge structure, possible retaining walls or railings, signage posts, rock slope protection.

Coherence (Unity)
The project exhibits visual coherence through:
-Consistent trail design standards.
-Integration with existing trail, sidewalk, and urban infrastructure. 0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 10 | Page
-Landscaping that transitions naturally between natural and urban.

-Use of materials and forms that reflect both natural and urban contexts.

5. Will the project, when viewed together with other past or foreseeable projects, result in a cumulative adverse change in the visual quality or character of the existing landscape?
0 Identify any projects in the area (both Caltrans’ and others’) that have been recently constructed and/or are reasonably foreseeable and/or currently planned for future construction. The window of time and the extent of area applicable to possible cumulative impacts should be based on a reasonable anticipation of the viewing public’s awareness of cumulative change.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o Project may result in substantial adverse cumulative visual impacts (4 Points)
o Project will result in noticea ble adverse cumulative visual impacts (3 Points)
o Project is unlikely to result in noticeable adverse cumulative visual impacts (2 Points)
o Project will not result in cumulative impacts (1 Point) 1 - Assumptions/issues: No. The proposed trail would connect to an existing trail system along Arcade Creek. Additionally, trail segments, including trail segments along creeks, are ubiquitous throughout the City of Citrus Heights.
0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 11 | Page

6. Will the project produce a new source of substantial light or glare, which will adversely affect daytime or nighttime views within the area?
0 Identify new sources of lighting and glare and how day- and nighttime visual conditions may change.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High potential for adverse effects (4 Points)
o Moderate potential for adverse effects (3 Points)
o Low potential for adverse effects (2 Points)
o No potential for adverse effects (1 Point)
1 - Assumptions/issues: No. Lighting is not a component of this project.
0 Visual Sensitivity 0

7. What is the potential that the project proposal will be controversial within the community?
0 Assess the level of public concern by talking with local agency management and staff familiar with the affected community’s sentiments as evidenced by past projects and/or current information. 0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High Potential that project will be controversial (4 Points) o Moderate Potential that project will be controversial (3 Points) o Low Potential that project will be controversial (2 Points) o No Potential that project will be controversial (1 Point) 2 - Assumptions/issues: The City received positive public feedback in favor of filling in gaps within the existing City trail network. 0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 12 | Page

8. How sensitive are potential viewer groups likely to be regarding visible changes proposed by the project?
0 Consider among other factors who the viewer groups represent, the number of viewers within the group, probable viewer expectations, activities, viewing duration, and orientation. The expected viewer sensitivity level may be scoped by applying professional judgment, and by soliciting information from other Caltrans staff, local agencies and community stakeholders familiar with the affected community’s sentiments and demonstrated concerns.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High Sensitivity (4 Points)
o Moderate Sensitivity (3 Points)
o Low Sensitivity (2 Points)
o No Sensitivity (1 Point)
1 - Assumptions/issues: The project area vicinity contains an existing gravel trail, recreational park, Arcade Creek, paved roadways, curb/gutter, and residential homes. The proposed project would connect to the existing trail system along Arcade Creek. Viewer groups would have no sensitivity as the proposed work would offer consistency with existing infrastructure. The narrow width of the trail and low profile would also not interrupt views of the creek and riparian areas within/adjacent to the creek. The new segment of trail would also be partially hidden from motorists’ views due to the dense riparian vegetation within/adjacent to the creek that would remain after construction of the project. Additionally, viewer groups have expressed support for the project as a way for them to better interact with the natural environment within an urban setting.
0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 13 | Page

9. What level of local concern is there for the types of specific project features (e.g., bridge structures, large excavations, sound barriers, or median planting removal) and construction impacts that are proposed?
0 Certain project improvements can be of special interest to local citizens, causing a heightened level of public concern, and requiring a more focused visual analysis.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High Level of Concern (4 Points)
o Moderate Level of Concern (3 Points)
o Low Level of Concern (2 Points)
o No Concern (1 Point)
2 - Assumptions/issues: The City received positive public feedback in favor of filling in gaps within the existing City trail network. 0 10. Are there federally, state, locally designated scenic or historic resources, or other visual resources within the project area of visual effect (i.e., viewshed)?
0 For example: protected viewsheds, visually sensitive public use areas, national historic/scenic trails, historic sites or structures, scenic designated viewpoints, wild and scenic rivers, state scenic highways or federal scenic byways, or potential visual resources such as stands of trees, rock outcroppings, etc.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o Multiple designated scenic resources (4 Points)
o Multiple potential visual resources or a single designated scenic resource (3 Points)
o One potential visual resource (2 Points)
o No identifiable scenic resources (1 Point)
2 - Assumptions/issues: While there is a visual resource, Arcade Creek and its riparian corridor, it would connect to an existing paved trail in addition to other urban features including sidewalk, paved roadways, curb/gutter, and residential homes. 0 ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 14 | Page
Design Process Considerations 0

11. Will the project sponsor or public benefit from a more detailed visual analysis in order to help reach consensus on a course of action to address potential visual impacts?
0 Consider the proposed project features, possible visual impacts, and probable environmental commitments.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o High Benefit (4 Points)
o Moderate Benefit (3 Points)
o Low Benefit (2 Points)
o No Benefit (1 Point)
1 - Assumptions/issues: No. The City received positive public feedback in favor of filling in gaps within the existing City trail network.
0 12. Will the project likely require design changes to reduce the extent of visual resource impacts?
0 Consider design changes and enhancements such as realignment, additional alignment alternatives, vertical profile adjustments, extensive landscaping, architectural treatment, color and texture treatments and/or lighting of aboveground structures.
0 Select a Response (Score) 0
o Extensive changes and/or redesign (4 Points)
o Some redesign or minimization measures (3 Points)
o Minimal design changes (2 Points)
o No design changes (1 Point)
1 Assumptions/issues: No. The trail maintains environmental and community integrity by:
- Following existing natural and built corridors (creek, bridge, paved roadways, and sidewalk).
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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 15 | Page
- Minimizing disruption to existing vegetation due to the narrow trail width and low profile.
- Enhancing connectivity without introducing incongruent infrastructure.

Highlight the number below and press FN+F9 to calculate the final project score.

Project Score:
20 Store a copy of this completed questionnaire in the project file.

Attach a copy of this completed questionnaire to the VIA report.

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LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 16 | Page
Project Score
Select an Outline Based on Project Score
The total score will indicate the recommended VIA level for the project. In addition to considering circumstances relating to any one of the 12 questions that would justify elevating the VIA level, also consider any other project factors that would influence level selection.

Score 12-18 – VIA Questionnaire
No visual resource related regulatory requirements. No or negligible visual changes to the environment are proposed. None or minimal public concern has been identified.

This Questionnaire with rationale for selected responses to questions in the available spaces after each question along with a statement of no visual resource impact is appropriate and provides a sufficient rationale why a technical study is not required.

Score 19-28 –VIA Memorandum
Very limited visual resource related regulatory requirements. Minor visual changes to the environment are proposed. Minor public concern from the public may be expected.

A VIA Memorandum is appropriate in this case. The VIA Memorandum should briefly describe project features, impacts and any environmental commitment measures.

Visual simulations are not necessary. Go to the Directions for using and accessing VIA Memorandum Annotated Outline (website link).

Score 29-38 – Standard VIA Report
Several visual resource related regulatory requirements. Moderately noticeable visual changes to the environment are proposed. Moderate public concern may be expected.

A fully developed Standard VIA Report is appropriate. The report should describe in detail the project’s visual attributes, its visual impact and potential environmental commitment measures. Visual simulations are recommended. This report will likely receive public review. Go to the Directions for using and accessing the Standard VIA Annotated Outline (website link).

Score 39-48 – Advanced VIA Report
Extensive visual resource related regulatory requirements and clearly noticeable changes to the environment are proposed. Moderate to high public concern may be expected. A fully developed Advanced VIA Report is appropriate. The report should describe in detail and numerically score the project’s visual change and sensitivity, its visual impact and any environmental commitments proposed. Visual simulations are required. It is appropriate to alert the Project Development Team to the potential for highly adverse impacts and to consider project alternatives to avoid those impacts. This ITEM 9
LA Questionnaire to Determine Visual Impact Assessment Level 17 | Page
technical study will receive close public review. Go to the Directions for using and accessing the Advanced VIA Annotated Outline (website link).

ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT

APPENDIX B: Air Quality Technical Memorandum

ITEM 9
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail AQTM
(Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project

Air Quality Technical Memorandum
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project City of Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
District 3–SAC
CRP 5475 (053)
April 2026

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project

City of Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
District 3–SAC
CRP 5475 (053)
April 2026

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Prepared By: ____________________________________ Date: __4/10/26___ Ken Chen, Environmental Planner
Dokken Engineering
110 Blue Ravine Rd, 200
Folsom, CA, 95630
(916) 858-0642

Reviewed By: ____________________________________ Date: ___________ Daniel Kehrer, Principal Civil Engineer
(916) 727-4770
City of Citrus Heights General Services Department
6360 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights CA 95621

Approved By: ____________________________________ Date: ___________ Caitlin Greenwood, Associate Environmental Planner
District 3 North Region Local Assistance

Statement of Compliance: Produced in compliance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements, as appropriate, to meet the level of analysis a nd documentation that has been determined necessary for this project.

ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

AQTM 1 April 2026

INTRODUCTION
This memorandum discusses temporary air quality impacts and minimization measures for the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project in the City of Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California. This memorandum identifies the proposed Project as exempt from conformity requirements pursuant to 40 CFR 93.12 6, Table 2 “Bicycle and pedestrian facilities”. The Project will construct a 0.5-mile segment extension of an existing bicycle/pedestrian trail and will not result in any changes to the local roadway. As such, the proposed Project is not anticipated to have a long-term impact on air quality.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of Citrus Heights (City) proposes to construct a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16-mile Creek Corridor Trail Project (CCTP) as part of the Arcade- Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project (Project) (Appendix A. Figure 1. Project Location; Figure 2. Project Vicinity ). The Project is funded through the federal Carbon Reduction Program and therefore requires compliance with both the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Ac t (CEQA). The lead agency for CEQA compliance is the City of Citrus Heights and the federal lead agency for NEPA compliance is the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

The Project is located in Citrus Heights and will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center, also known as the Stock Ranch Retail Center, to Sylvan Road. The proposed alignment begins south of the Walmart property bounda ry and proceeds east through the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, curving south around Walmart’s water quality detention basin. The alignment continues north, crossing a tributary of Arcade Creek and passes south of the Huntington Square Apartments connecting to Sylvan Road.

Proposed facilities include a paved trail, a new prefabricated bridge across the unnamed creek tributary, solar lighting, bank protection along a segment of Arcade Creek and an at-grade s ignalized crossing at Sylvan Road ( Appendix A.

Figure 3. Project Features ). Construction activities will involve grading to achieve ADA-compliant slopes, installing the creek crossing, paving the trail, erecting the solar lighting, constructi ng bank protection, and adding pedestrian signal infrastructure with minor utility adjustments as needed.

To accommodate construction, partial right-of-way (ROW) acquisitions will be required from several parcels. These include permanent easement and permit to enter (PTE) from the Sunrise Recreatio n & Park District and a temporary construction easement (TCE) from Walmar t. An existing trail easement exists across the Huntington Square Apartments property and there is potential for ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

AQTM 2 April 2026

permanent easement to be modified to best incorporate the trail alignment with the physical site features.

Construction access will be provided primarily through the Walmart parking lot under a TCE, as well as a PTE for access from the Huntington Square Apartments parcel. These provisions will allow safe and efficient construction of the trail and its associated improvements.

Construction is anticipated to start in 2027 and last approximately 6 months.

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
The Project is located in Citrus Heights, which falls within the Sacramento Valley Air Basin (SVAB). Air quality regulation in SVAB is administered by the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality M anagement District (SMAQMD). Table 1 lists the state and federal attainment status for all regulated pollutants.

Table 1. Attainment at Project Location
Criteria Pollutant Attainment Status
State Federal
Ozone Non-attainment Non-attainment
PM10 Non-attainment Maintenance
PM2.5 Attainment Non-attainment
Carbon Monoxide Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Nitrogen Dioxide Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Sulfur Dioxide Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Lead Attainment Unclassified/Attainment
Visibility Reducing Particles Unclassified No Federal Standard Sulfates Attainment No Federal Standard
Hydrogen Sulfide Unclassified No Federal Standard
Source: California Air Resources Board, October 2018

SMAQMD EMISSION THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE
The SMAQMD has established mass emissi ons thresholds for ozone precursors and particulate matter because the Sacramento Region does not meet state and federal ozone ambient air quality standards. The thresholds are listed in Table 2 below. Emissions of ozone precursors or particulate matter from an individual project could contribute to the cumulative non-attainment problem. A “considerable” or “substantial” contribution means one that exceeds the mass emission threshold levels.

ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

AQTM 3 April 2026

Table 2. SMAQMD Thresholds of Significance
Pollutant
Construction Threshold
Lbs/day
Operational Threshold
Lbs/day

ROG None
65 NOx 85
65 PM10 801 801
PM2.5 821 821
Pollutant
Construction Threshold
Metric Tons/year
CO2 1,100
1 assumes all feasible BACT/BMPs are applied

TEMPORARY/CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS
During construction, short-term degradatio n of air quality may occur due to the release of particulate emissions (airborne dust) generated by excavation, grading, hauling, and other activities related to construction. Emissions from construction equipment also are anticipated and will include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), directly emitted particulate matter (PM
10 and PM 2.5), and toxic air contaminants such as
diesel exhaust particulate matter. Ozone is a regional pollutant that is derived from NOx and VOCs in the presence of sunlight and heat.

Heavy trucks and construction equipment powered by gasoline and diesel engines will generate CO, SO2, NOx, VOCs and some soot particulate (PM10 and PM2.5) in exhaust emissions. If construction activities were to increase traffic ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

AQTM 4 April 2026

congestion in the Project vicinity, CO and other emissions from traffic will increase slightly while those vehicles are delayed. These emissions will be temporary and limited to the immediate area surrounding the Project area.

Dust generated will result in a temporary, local impact, limited to areas of construction. Dust control practices will be incorporated into the Project to mitigate this potential impact. The dust co ntrol practices will comply with the current Caltrans’ Standard Specifications.

Construction emissions were estimated using the Caltrans 2021 Construction Emissions Tool (CAL-CET v1.0.2). Construction -related emissions for the proposed Project are presented in Table 3. The emissions presented are based on the best information available at the time of calculations. The emissions represent the peak daily constructi on emissions that will be generated by construction of the proposed Project.

Table 3. Construction Emissions
ROG
(lbs/day)
PM10
(lbs/day)
PM2.5
(lbs/day)
CO
(lbs/day)
NOx
(lbs/day)
CO2 (Metric
Tons/Year)
Land
Clearing/Grubbing 1.013 5.865 6.194 5.865 6.194 5
Roadway Excavation
& Removal 1.950 13.001 13.226 13.001 13.226 34
Structural Excavation
& Removal 0.456 1.388 2.421 1.388 2.421 1
Base/Subbase/
Imported Borrow 2.779 20.441 19.128 20.441 19.128 24
Structure Concrete 0.683 2.146 3.364 2.146 3.364 8
Paving 2.039 6.400 15.345 6.400 15.345 16
Drainage/Environment
/Landscaping 2.823 8.359 17.997 8.359 17.997 62
Traffic
Signalization/Signage/
Striping/Painting

1.348 6.568 10.204 6.568 10.204 49
Maximum daily
(lbs/day) 2.823 20.441 19.128 20.441 19.128 -
Project Total
(tons/construction
project)

0.122 0.548 0.809 0.548 0.809 200
ITEM 9
Air Quality Technical Memorandum

AQTM 5 April 2026

ROG
(lbs/day)
PM10
(lbs/day)
PM2.5
(lbs/day)
CO
(lbs/day)
NOx
(lbs/day)
CO2 (Metric
Tons/Year)
SMAQMD
Construction
Thresholds of
Significance
-
Zero (0).

If all
feasible
BACT/B
MPs are
applied,
then 80
pounds/d
ay and

14.6 tons/year
Zero (0).

If all
feasible
BACT/B
MPs are
applied,
then 82
pounds/d
ay and
15 tons/year
- 85
lbs/day
1,100
metric
tons/year

PERMANENT OPERATIONAL IMPACTS
The proposed Project is exempt from al l Project-level conformity requirements because it falls under Table 2—Ex empt Projects “Bicycle and pedestrian facilities” listed in 40 CFR 93.126. Th ere will be no long-term operational air quality emissions associated with the proposed Project.

MINIMIZATION MEASURES
Construction activities will be short-term and intermittent in duration; therefore, no long-term impacts to air quality will occur. Implementation of the avoidance and minimization measures AQ-1 and CC-1 will reduce air quality impacts resulting from construction activities. Please note that although these measures are anticipated to reduce construction-related emissions, these reductions cannot be quantified at this time.

AQ-1: Implement Sacrameto Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Basic and Enhanced Con struction Emission Control Practices to Reduce Fugitive Dust.

The implementing agency will require, as a standard or specification of their contract, the construction contractor(s) to implement basic and enhanced control measures to reduce construction-related fugitive dust. Although the following measures are outlined in the SMAQMD’s California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines, they are required for the entirety of the construction area. The implementing agency will ensure through contract provisions and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures before and during construction and documents compliance with the adopted mitigation measures.
x Water exposed surfaces two times daily. Exposed surfaces include (but are not limited to) soil piles, graded areas, unpaved parking areas, staging areas, and access roads.

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x Cover or maintain at least 2 feet of freeboard space on haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material on the site. Any haul trucks that will be traveling along freeways or major roadways should be covered.
x Use wet power vacuum street sweepers to remove any visible trackout mud or dirt onto adjacent public roads at least once a day. Use of dry power sweeping is prohibited.
x Limit vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour. x All trail, and curb/sidewalk paving should be completed as soon as possible.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) enforces idling limitations and compliance with diesel fleet regulations.
x Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to 3 m inutes. Provide clear signate that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site. x Provide current certificate(s) of compliance for CARB’s In-Use Off- Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation [California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Sections 2449 and 2449.1]. For more information contact CARB at 877-593-6677, [email protected], or
www.arb.ca.gov/doors/compliance_cert1.html.

CC-1: The implementing agency will require through construction contract terms and specifications that the contractor adheres to the mitigation measures and implements all applicable Sacrameto Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQ MD) best management practices for reducing construction-related Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.

Provide clear signage that posts this requirement for workers at the entrances to the site.

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AQTM 7 April 2026

o Maintain all construction equipment in proper working condition according to manufacturer’s specifications. The equipment must be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition before it is operated.
o Train equipment operators in proper use of equipment, including limiting idling time, minimizing warm-up time, performing routine maintenance, and optimizing equipment use.
o Avoid using equipment that is larger than the job requires. o Use equipment with new technolog ies (e.g., repowered engines, electric drivetrains).
x Perform on-site material hauling with trucks equipped with on-road engines (if the air districts or CARB determine them to emit less than the off-road engines).
x Use alternative fuels for generators at construction sites, rather than gasoline or diesel (e.g., propane or solar), or use electrical power. x Use a California Air Resources Board-approved low-carbon fuel for construction equipment. (NOx emissions from the use of low-carbon fuel must be reviewed and increases mitigated.)
x Encourage and provide carpools, shuttle vans, and transit passes for construction worker commutes.
x Reduce electricity use in the construction office by using compact fluorescent bulbs, powering off computers every day, and using the most efficient heating and cooling units available.
x Recycle or salvage non-hazardous construction and demolition debris (goal of at least 75% by weight) to avoid landfill disposal. x Use locally sourced or recycled materials for construction materials (goal of at least 20% based on cost s for building materials, and based on volume for trail, sidewalk and curb materials). Wood products utilized should be certified through a sustainable forestry program. x Minimize the amount of concrete for paved surfaces or utilize a low carbon concrete option.
x Produce concrete on-site if determined to be less emissive than transporting ready mix.
x Use Smartway certified trucks for deliveries and equipment transport. x Develop a plan to efficiently use water for adequate dust control.

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AQTM 8 April 2026

SUMMARY
No substantially adverse air quality impacts from construction are anticipated because construction will be short-term and intermittent and conducted in accordance with Caltrans’ standard specifications and County requirements.

REFERENCES
Caltrans CAL-CET2021 v1.0.2
California Air Resources Board. November 2023. Area Designations Maps/state and National, https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/r esources/documents/maps-state-and- federal-area-designations. Accessed January 2026.

Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. CEQA Guide December 2009, last revised April 2020. SMAQMD Thresholds of Significance Table,
https://www.airquality.org/LandUseTransportation/Documents/CH2ThresholdsTa ble4-2020.pdf
ITEM 9

DOKKEN ENGINEERING INITIAL STUDY/PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION July 2026 ARCADE-CRIPPLE CREEK TRAIL (SYLVAN ROAD TO STOCK RANCH) EXTENSION PROJECT

APPENDIX C: Natural Environment Study

ITEM 9
Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail NES
(Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch) Extension Project

Natural Environment Study
Discussion of Biological Resources, Aquatic Resources, Impacts, and Mitigation City of Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California
District 3-SAC
CRP 5475(053)
April 2026
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
Natural Environment Study
Discussion of Biological Resources, Aquatic Resources, Impacts, and Mitigation City of Citrus Heights, California
District 3-SAC
CRP 5475(053)
April 2026

STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Department of Transportation
Prepared By: ______________________________________ Date: 4/10/26 Katie Jacobson, Biologist/Environmental Planner
(916) 858-0642
Dokken Engineering
110 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 200
Folsom, CA 95630
Reviewed By: ____________________________________ Date: ___________ Daniel Kehrer, Principal Civil Engineer
(916) 727-4770
City of Citrus Heights General Services Department
6360 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights CA 95621
Approved By: ____________________________________ Date: ___________ Gregory Saiyo, Environmental Scientist
(530) 845-3397
North Region Environmental
California Department of Transportation - District 3
Approved By: ____________________________________ Date: ___________ Veronica Wilson, Senior Environmental Scientist, Branch Chief (530) 649-4871
North Region Environmental
California Department of Transportation - District 3
For individuals with sensory disabilities, this document can be made available in Braille, in large print, on audiocassette, or on computer disk. To obtain a copy in one of these __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ________ C
4/15/26
_______________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __ regggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggoroooooorooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo yS aiyyyyyyyo ,
Enviroooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooonmen 4/28/2026
__________________
Veronica Wilson
Senio
4/28/2026
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study

alternate formats, please call or write to Department of Transportation, Attn: Dennis Keaton, Public Information Officer, 703 B Street Marysville, CA 95901; (916) 825-5252 (Voice) or use the California Relay Service (800) 735-2929 (TTY to Voice), (800) 735- 2922 (Voice to TTY) or 711.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES i April 2026
Table of Contents
Summary ......................................................................................................................... v Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................... 1 Project Description ....................................................................................................... 1 Chapter 2 – Study Methods ............................................................................................. 6 Federal Regulations ..................................................................................................... 6 State Regulations ......................................................................................................... 8 Local Regulations ...................................................................................................... 10 Studies Required ....................................................................................................... 11 Personnel and Survey Dates ..................................................................................... 12 Agency Coordination and Professional Contacts ....................................................... 12 Limitations That May Influence Results ..................................................................... 13 Chapter 3 – Results: Environmental Setting ................................................................. 14 Description of the Existing Physical and Biological Conditions .................................. 14 Chapter 4 – Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts, and Mitigation ..... 42 Habitats and Natural Communities of Special Concern ............................................. 42 Special Status Plant Species ..................................................................................... 51 Special Status Animal Species .................................................................................. 53 Chapter 5 – Conclusions and Regulatory Determinations ............................................. 63 Federal Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary ......................................... 63 Essential Fish Habitat Consultation Summary ........................................................... 64 California Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary ...................................... 65 Wetlands and Other Waters Coordination Summary ................................................. 65 Invasive Species ........................................................................................................ 65 Other .......................................................................................................................... 65 Appendix A. USFWS Species List.............................................................................. 71 Appendix B. CNDDB Species List.............................................................................. 72 Appendix C. CNPS Species List ................................................................................ 73 Appendix D. NMFS Species List ................................................................................ 74 Appendix E. Reference Photographs ........................................................................ 75 Appendix F. OHWM Datasheet ................................................................................... 83 Appendix G. CDFW Region 2 Fisheries Biologist Coordination ............................. 84 ITEM 9
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NES ii April 2026
List of Tables
Table 1. Species Observed ........................................................................................... 18 Table 2: Special Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Vicinity ............. 22 Table 3. Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats .............................................................. 42 Table 4. Federally Listed Species Determinations ........................................................ 63

List of Figures
Figure 1: Project Vicinity ................................................................................................. 2 Figure 2: Project Location .............................................................................................. 3 Figure 3: Project Features .............................................................................................. 5 Figure 4: Waters and Vegetation Communities ............................................................. 15 Figure 5: Project Impacts .............................................................................................. 43 ITEM 9
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NES iii April 2026
Acronyms List
°F Fahrenheit
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act
BMP Best Management Practice
BSA Biological Study Area
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CCTP Creek Corridor Trail Project
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CESA California Endangered Species Act
CFG California Fish and Game
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database
CNPS California Native Plant Society
City City of Citrus Heights
CWA Clean Water Act
DBH Diameter at Breast Height
DOT Department of Transportation
EFH Essential Fish Habitat
EO Executive Order
ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area
FESA Federal Endangered Species Act
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
FR Federal Register
HAPC Habitat Areas of Particular Concern
iPaC Information for Planning and Consultation
ITP Incidental Take Permit
LiDAR Light Detection and Ranging
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NES Natural Environment Study
NMFS National Mari ne Fisheries Service
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service
NWPT Northwestern Pond Turtle
OHWM Ordinary High-Water Mark
PFMC Pacific Fishery Management Council
PMP Pedestrian Master Plan
Project Arcade-Cripple Creek Trai l (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project
ROW Right-of-way
RSP Rock Slope Protection
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
U.S. United States
USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES iv April 2026
USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS U.S. Geological Survey
VELB Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
WQC Water Quality Certification
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES v April 2026
Summary
The City of Citrus Heights (City) proposes to construct the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project (Project), a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16-mile Creek Corridor Trail Project (CCTP). The purpose of this Project is to close a gap in the existing trail system by replacing dirt and narrow concrete paths with an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant Class I multi-use trail. This trail extension is needed to enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, provide a safe recreational facility, and improve access through the Arcade Creek greenbelt.

This Natural Environment Study (NES) provides a review and evaluation of the potential impacts to threatened, endangered, listed, or special status species and protected habitat resources as a result of the proposed Project. Field surveys were conducted within the Biological Study Area (BSA) which encompasses the Project area at the proposed trail alignment with an approximate 165-foot buffer to assess adjacent sensitive vegetation communities.

During biological survey efforts, three vegetation communities were observed within the BSA, including annual grassland, oak woodland, and riparian woodland. In addition, the BSA includes two aquatic features: Arcade Creek and Arcade Creek tributary (perennial stream channel) and portions of, an unnamed ephemeral tributary and two water quality/detention basins. Because these basins are artificial ponds constructed in dry land for stormwater treatment and detention, they fall under the exclusion at 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 120.2(b)(5) and therefore do not meet the current definition of waters of the U.S. In addition, permitting under Section 401 of the CWA is not warranted as there is little to no risk of discharge to another water body and there is no potential for the Project improvements to encroach on these features. Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary are jurisdictional waters of both the United States (U.S.) and the state, whereas the ephemeral tributary. These surface waters are regulated under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), as administered by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and Arcade Creek and its tributary are additionally subject to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act administrated by USACE.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) also asserts jurisdiction over the bed, bank, and channel of these waters, as well as any associated riparian vegetation.

The Project would result in temporary and permanent impacts to jurisdictional waters and vegetation communities within the BSA. Approximately 0.10 acres of Arcade Creek mainstem and its tributary would be temporarily impacted, while approximately 0.01 acres of Arcade Creek will be permanently impacted. In addition, temporary impacts totaling approximately 0.89 acres and permanent impacts totaling approximately 0.20 acres are anticipated within the riparian woodland community. The Project would also affect upland vegetation communities, including approximately 0.17 acres of temporary impacts and 0.02 acres of permanent impacts to oak woodland.

For the purposes of this analysis, “special status species” includes any species that has been afforded special recognition by federal, state or local resources agencies (e.g., United States Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS], CDFW, etc.), and/or resource conservation organizations (e.g., California Native Plant Society [CNPS]). Literature research, habitat assessments, and biological surveys determined that the BSA was ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES vi April 2026
potentially suitable for five special status species: song sparrow (“Modesto” population) (Melospiza melodia pop. 1), valley elderberry longhorn beetle (Desmocerus californicus dimorphus; VELB), Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni), white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) and northwestern pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata; NWPT). With the inclusion of appropriate avoidance and minimization measures, the proposed Project is not expected to result in take of any state listed species; and therefore coordination with CDFW under Section 2081 Incidental Take Permit (ITP) is not anticipated. Based on the location of VELB habitat in relation to the BSA and the nature of the Project, it has been determined that the Project will have no effect on VELB. The USFWS is currently not providing conference opinions for northwestern pond turtle (based on the timing of this NES). However, given that northwestern pond turtle is proposed to be listed under the FESA, Section 7 consultation will be required with USFWS upon official listing of the species. Though no determination will be made for purposes of Section 7 at this time, once officially listed under FESA, the determination for northwestern pond turtle is proposed to be may affect, not likely to adversely affect. Conservation measures are proposed for the species as a show of good faith, to further the protection and recovery of the species, and in anticipation of any future listings.

The following permits will be obtained for the proposed Project prior to construction:

Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the RWQCB, non-reporting Section 404 Nationwide Permit 14, and a Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement from CDFW.

The Project is funded through the federal Carbon Reduction Program. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is the lead agency for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance. The City will be the lead agency for California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 1 April 2026
Chapter 1: Introduction
The Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail is part of a 16-mile trail network identified in the City’s CCTP. Planned since 2012, the Creek Corridor Trail is being built segment by segment, starting with 4.2 miles of Priority 1 trails identified in the Creek Corridor Trail Project Feasibility Study. To advance its vision of using the natural Arcade Creek greenbelt as a recreational resource and to enhance connectivity between communities, the City of Citrus Heights, in partnership with the Sunrise Recreation and Parks District, is proposing to construct the 0.5-mile Priority 1 trail segment from Sylvan Road to Stock Ranch. Currently, the trail includes dirt paths through the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve and narrow concrete paths through the Huntington Square apartments. This Project will upgrade these sections to a paved, ADA-compliant Class I multi-use trail, bringing the Priority 1 trail network over 10% closer to completion and providing safe, accessible connections between communities.

The Project is located west of Sylvan Road within the City of Citrus Heights in Sacramento County, California, within the Citrus Heights 7.5-minute U. S.

Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle (Figure 1. Project Vicinity and Figure 2.

Project Location).

Project Purpose and Need
The purpose of this Project is to construct one of the several planned segments of the CCTP by replacing dirt and narrow concrete paths with an ADA-compliant Class I multi-use trail. This trail extension is needed to enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, provide a safe recreational facility, and improve access through the Arcade Creek greenbelt.

Project Description
The City proposes to construct a 0.5-mile addition to the planned 16-mile CCTP as part of the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail (Sylvan to Stock Ranch) Extension Project (Project). The Project is funded through the federal Carbon Reduction Program.

The Project is located in Citrus Heights and will extend east from the existing Stock Ranch Trail behind the Costco/Walmart shopping center to Sylvan Road.

The proposed alignment begins south of the Walmart property boundary and would proceed east through the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, curving south around Walmart’s water quality detention basin. The alignment continues north, crossing a tributary of Arcade Creek, and traverses along the south side of the Huntington Square Apartment complex prior to connecting to Sylvan Road. The alignment terminates east of Sylvan Road with a planned future trail extension segment from Sylvan Road to Mariposa Avenue. The Project has independent utility and would function as a stand-alone improvement.

To accommodate construction, right-of-way (ROW) acquisitions will be required from several parcels. These include a permanent and temporary easement from ITEM 9

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ITEM 9
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 4 April 2026
the Sunrise Recreation and Park District, a temporary access easement from Walmart and/or Costco, and a temporary access easement from Huntington Square Apartments. If the existing trail easement across the Huntington Square Apartment property is insufficient to contain the construction activities, an additional temporary construction easement would be needed.

Proposed facilities include a paved trail, a new prefabricated bridge across the unnamed creek tributary, solar lighting, and an at-grade signalized pedestrian crossing at Sylvan Road (Figure 3. Project Features). Construction activities will involve grading to achieve ADA-compliant slopes, installing the creek crossing (the prefabricated bridge), paving the trail, erecting the solar lighting, and adding pedestrian signal infrastructure with minor utility adjustments as needed. The Project also includes installation of a gabion basket retaining wall along an actively eroding portion of Arcade Creek to stabilize the bank and prevent further erosion.

Construction access will be provided primarily through the Walmart and/or Costco parking lot under a temporary construction easement, with potential supplemental access from the Huntington Square Apartments parcel. These provisions will allow safe and efficient construction of the trail and its associated improvements.

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ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 6 April 2026
Chapter 2 – Study Methods
This section describes the federal, state, and local plans, policies, and laws that are relevant to biological resources within the BSA. Applicable federal permits and approvals that will be required before construction of the Project are provided in Chapter 5.

Federal Regulations
National Environmental Policy Act
NEPA provides an interdisciplinary framework for environmental planning by federal agencies and contains action-forcing procedures to ensure that federal agency decisions take environmental factors into account. NEPA is applicable when a federal agency proposes an action, grants a permit, or agrees to fund or otherwise authorize any other entity to undertake an action that could possibly affect environmental resources. Caltrans is the designated NEPA lead agency for this Project acting under delegation from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Federal Endangered Species Act
The Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) of 1973 (16 U.S.C. section 1531 et seq.) provides for the conservation of endangered and threatened species listed pursuant to Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. section 1533) and the ecosystems upon which they depend. These species and resources have been identified by USFWS or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). One federally threatened species, VELB, along with one federally proposed threatened species, NWPT, have potential to occur within the BSA.

Clean Water Act
The CWA was enacted as an amendment to the Federal Water Pollutant Control Act of 1972, which outlined the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants to Waters of the U.S. The CWA serves as the primary federal law protecting the quality of the nation’s surface waters, including lakes, rivers, and coastal wetlands. The CWA empowers the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to set national water quality standards and effluent limitations and includes programs addressing both point source and nonpoint source pollution.

Point source pollution originates or enters surface waters at a single, discrete location, such as an outfall structure or an excavation or construction site.

Nonpoint source pollution originates over a broader area and includes urban contaminants in storm water runoff and sediment loading from upstream areas.

The CWA operates on the principle that all discharges into the nation’s waters are unlawful unless they are specifically authorized by a permit; permit review is the CWA’s primary regulatory tool.

Section 401
The RWQCB has jurisdiction under Section 401 of the CWA and regulates any activity which may result in a discharge to surface waters. Typically, the areas subject to jurisdiction of the RWQCB coincide with waters of the U.S. including any wetlands. The RWQCB also asserts authority over “waters of the state” ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 7 April 2026
under WDRs pursuant to the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. The Project is located within the jurisdiction of the Central Valley RWQCB and would require a Water Quality Certification (WQC) prior to construction. WQCs are issued to applicants for a federal license or permit for activities that may result in a discharge into waters of the U.S., including but not limited to the discharge or dredged or fill material.

Section 402
The California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulates construction projects that involve ground disturbance of one acre or greater.

Section 404
The United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) regulates discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S. These waters include wetlands and non-wetland bodies of water that meet specific criteria, including a direct or indirect connection to interstate commerce. The USACE regulatory jurisdiction pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA is founded on a connection, or nexus, between the water body in question and interstate commerce. This connection may be direct (through a tributary system linking a stream channel with traditional navigable waters used in interstate or foreign commerce) or may be indirect (through a nexus identified in USACE regulations). Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary, within the BSA, are jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and will require Section 404 permitting through the USACE.

Department of Transportation (DOT) promulgated DOT Order 5660.1A in 1978 to comply with this direction. On federally funded projects, impacts on wetlands must be identified. Alternatives that avoid wetlands must be considered. If wetland impacts cannot be avoided, then all practicable measures to minimize harm must be included. This must be documented in a specific Wetlands Only Practicable Alternative Finding.

Executive Order 13112 – Invasive Species
EO 13112 (signed February 3, 1999) directs all federal agencies to prevent and control introductions of invasive species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner. The EO and directives from the FHWA require consideration of ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 8 April 2026
invasive species in NEPA analyses, including their identification and distribution, their potential impacts, and measures to prevent or eradicate them.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act
This treaty with Canada, Mexico and Japan makes it unlawful at any time, by any means or in any manner, to pursue, hunt, take, capture, or kill migratory birds.

The law applies to the removal of nests (such as swallow nests on bridges) occupied by migratory birds during the breeding season. California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503 and 3503.5 (protection of birds’ nests) and 3513 (taking Migratory Bird Treaty Act birds) also prohibit the destruction of any nest, egg, or nestling.

State Regulations
California Environmental Quality Act
CEQA is a California state law designed to inform governmental decision-makers and the public about the potential, significant environmental effects of proposed activities and to identify measures to reduce these negative environmental impacts. The City is the CEQA lead agency for this Project.

California Endangered Species Act
The California Fish and Game (CFG) Code Section 2050, henceforth referred to as the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), requires CDFW to establish a list of endangered and threatened species (Section 2070) and to prohibit the incidental taking of any such listed species except as allowed by the Act (Sections 2080–2089). In addition, CESA prohibits take of candidate species (under consideration for listing).

CESA also requires CDFW to comply with CEQA (Pub. Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) when evaluating incidental take permit applications (CFG Code Section 2081(b) and California Code Regulations, Title 14, section 783.0 et seq.), and the potential impacts the project or activity for which the application was submitted may have on the environment. CDFW’s CEQA obligations include consultation with other public agencies which have jurisdiction over the project or activity [California Code Regulations, Title 14, Section 783.5(d)(3)]. CDFW cannot issue an incidental take permit if issuance would jeopardize the continued existence of the species [CFG Code Section 2081(c); California Code ITEM 9
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Regulations, Title 14, Section 783.4(b)]. Swainson’s hawk listed as threatened under CESA has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Section 1602: Streambed Alteration Agreement
Under CFG Code 1602, public agencies are required to notify CDFW before undertaking any project that will divert, obstruct, or change the natural flow, bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake. Preliminary notification and project review generally occur during the environmental process. When an existing fish or wildlife resource may be substantially adversely affected, CDFW is required to propose reasonable project changes to protect the resources. These modifications are formalized in a Streambed Alteration Agreement that becomes part of the plans, specifications, and bid documents for the project.

Section 3503 and 3503.5: Bird and Raptors
CFG Code Section 3503 prohibits the destruction of bird nests and Section 3503.5 prohibits the killing of raptor species and destruction of raptor nests.

Section 3513: Migratory Birds
CFG Code Section 3513 prohibits the take or possession of any migratory non- game bird as designated in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) or any part of such migratory non-game bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the MBTA.

Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act
California’s Porter-Cologne Act, enacted in 1969, provides the legal basis for water quality regulation within California. The act requires a “Report of Waste Discharge” for any discharge of waste (liquid, solid, or gaseous) to land or surface waters that may impair beneficial uses for surface and/or groundwater of the state. It predates the CWA and regulates discharges to waters of the state.

Waters of the state include more than just waters of the U.S., such as groundwater and surface waters not considered waters of the U.S. Additionally, it prohibits discharges of “waste” as defined and this definition is broader than the CWA definition of “pollutant”. Discharges under the Porter-Cologne Act are permitted by WDRs and may be required even when the discharge is already permitted or exempt under the CWA.

The RWQCBs are responsible for establishing the water quality standards (objectives and beneficial uses) required by the CWA and regulating discharges to ensure compliance with the water quality standards. Details regarding water quality standards in a project area are contained in the applicable RWQCB Basin Plan. In California, RWQCBs designate beneficial uses for all water body ITEM 9
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segments in their jurisdictions and then set criteria necessary to protect these uses. Consequently, the water quality standards developed for particular water segments are based on the designated use and vary depending on such use. In addition, the SWRCB identifies waters failing to meet standards for specific pollutants, which are then state listed in accordance with CWA Section 303(d). If a state determines that waters are impaired, and the standards cannot be met through point source or nonsource point controls (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System [NPDES] permits), the CWA requires the establishment of Total Maximum Daily Loads which specify allowable pollutant loads from all sources (point, nonpoint, and natural) for a given watershed. The ephemeral tributary within the BSA is considered a jurisdictional water of the state.

Regional Water Quality Control Board
The SWRCB adjudicates water rights, sets water pollution control policy, and issues water board orders on matters of statewide application, and oversees water quality functions throughout the state by approving Basin Plans, Total Maximum Daily Loads, and NPDES permits. RWQCBs are responsible for protecting beneficial use of water resources within their regional jurisdiction using planning, permitting, and enforcement authorities to meet this responsibility.

Local Regulations
City of Citrus Heights 2011 General Plan
The City's General Plan contains goals, policies, and actions that embody the City's approach for achieving the community's vision for its future. Goals identify physical, economic, environmental and/or social ends that the community desires. The policies are used directly to guide City decision makers and staff to respond by developing proposals and community actions (City of Citrus Heights 2011).

Compliance with all relevant goals and policies outlined in the General Plan will be required as part of the Project, including but not limited to:

Goal 17: Develop the Stock Ranch property with a mix of uses that enhance the City’s economic base, are compatible with surrounding land uses, and are sensitive to natural resources
Policy 17.3: Promote development in Stock Ranch in a manner that creates an attractive, distinct, cohesive, high-quality place. Features shall include:
recognition of site and City history; good automobile and pedestrian connection; compatibility with surrounding land uses; avoids cut-through traffic; and maintains open space.

Policy 17.4: Incorporate trail, park, open space and public access along Arcade Creek.

Policy 29.4: Support safe, complete and well-connected neighborhood street, bicycle, and pedestrian access and connections that balance circulation needs with the neighborhood context.

Goal 38: Establish a system of creekside trails, passive open space and parks for public use
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City of Citrus Heights Pedestrian Master Plan
The City Council adopted the first Citrus Heights Pedestrian Master Plan (PMP) on August 11, 2016. The PMP provides a broad vision, strategies, and actions for improving the pedestrian environment in the City by guiding the prioritization of investments in pedestrian infrastructure. It serves as a strategic framework to secure funding for pedestrian safety and livable community initiatives and to encourage more walking trips. The overall goal of the PMP is to enhance personal mobility, promote physical activity, and improve quality of life for City residents. The proposed Project is identified as a Local Priority Pedestrian Corridor Network within the PMP (City of Citrus Heights 2016).

The proposed Project aligns with the following goals and objectives listed in the PMP:

Goal 1: Improve walking safety.

Objective 1.C: Create an environment where people feel safe walking in Citrus Heights.

Goal 2: Increase and improve pedestrian access for all ages and abilities throughout the community.

Goal 4: Develop a walking environment that supports a vibrant community.

Objective 4.A: Create vibrant public spaces that encourage walking.

Objective 4.B: Create vibrant pedestrian friendly street environments in commercial and retail areas.

Objective 4.C: Create pedestrian priority corridors that serve as ‘walksheds’ to direct pedestrians to these safer, convenient paths between key destinations.

City of Citrus Heights Tree Preservation and Protection Regulations Native oak trees and other mature trees 19 inches or greater in diameter are protected and require a permit for removal.

The following trees are protected and require a tree permit:
x Native oaks 6 inches or more in diameter
x Mature trees 19 inches or more in diameter
x Trees planted as part of a condition of approval or mitigation requirement with a discretionary permit
Studies Required
Online databases from USFWS Information for Planning and Consultation (iPaC), California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), NMFS West Coast Region California Species List, and CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California were queried for presence of potential threatened, endangered, rare, or special status species within the USGS 7.5-minute quadrangles of Rio Linda (3812164), Citrus Heights (3812163), Folsom (3812162), Sacramento East (3812154), Buffalo Creek (3812152)), Carmichael (3812153), Rocklin (3812172), Roseville (3812173), and Pleasant Grove (3812174). These searches identified 23 special status wildlife species and 12 ITEM 9
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special status plant species with potential to occur in the vicinity of the Project (Appendix A through Appendix D). These species are described in Table 2.

Special Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Vicinity, which provides a comprehensive list and presents specific characteristics, habitat requirements, and potential for occurrence for each species.

Personnel and Survey Dates
A general biological survey was conducted on October 17, 2025, by Dokken Engineering biologists Caroline Clarkson and Katie Jacobson. The survey consisted of a general assessment of biological conditions of the BSA, with special attention given to sensitive plant and wildlife species that were determined by the literature assessment to have a potential of occurring within the Project vicinity. Methodology involved walking meandering transects throughout the BSA and recording observed vegetation and wildlife species, as well as categorizing existing vegetation communities.

In addition, an aquatic resources delineation was conducted in accordance with technical methods outlined in A Field Guide to the Identification of the Ordinary High-Water Mark (OHWM) in the Arid West Region of the Western United States (Lichvar & McColley 2008) to determine the boundaries of the OHWM of Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary. During survey efforts, these aquatic features were mapped in the field using an EOS Arrow 100 Receiver paired with ArcGIS Pro 3.6 software. This fieldwork was supplemented by desktop analysis of current and historical aerial imagery, as well as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data. The OHWM datasheet is included in the attached appendices (Appendix F. OHWM Datasheet).

Agency Coordination and Professional Contacts
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
On September 29, 2025, an official species list was obtained from the USFWS iPaC list for federally endangered and threatened species that could occur in the vicinity of the Project. An updated species list was obtained from iPaC on February 2, 2026 (Appendix A).

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
On March 12, 2026, a nine-quadrangle CNDDB search for special status species was obtained and used to create a list of species potentially occurring in the vicinity of the Project (Appendix B).

On January 23, 2026, Dokken Engineering contacted Skyler Burson, District Anadromous Fisheries Biologist with CDFW Region 2, to confirm the status of anadromous fish in Arcade Creek within the BSA. Skyler indicated that the potential for listed fish species to occur in this reach of Arcade and Cripple Creeks is very low. While there have been unverified reports of steelhead in the lower portions of Arcade Creek following large flow events, these are likely hatchery-origin fish. In November 2025, a small number of adult fall-run Chinook salmon entered Cripple Creek; however, Cripple Creek functions as a dead-end system with limited to no suitable spawning habitat, and any successful spawning ITEM 9
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or juvenile survival is considered highly unlikely (Appendix G. CDFW Region 2 Fisheries Biologist Coordination).

California Native Plant Society
On March 12, 2026, a special status plant list was obtained from CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (Appendix C).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
On March 12, 2026, a list of federally listed fish species was obtained from NMFS West Coast Region California Species List (Appendix D).

Limitations That May Influence Results
Sensitive wildlife species with the potential to occur in the BSA may be cryptic (difficult to detect) or transient, migratory species. The population size and locations of sensitive species may fluctuate through time. Because of this, the data collected for this NES represents a “snapshot” in time and may not reflect actual future conditions. The collection of biological field data is normally subject to environmental factors that cannot be controlled or reliably predicted.

Consequently, the interpretation of field data must be conservative and consider the uncertainties and limitations imposed by the environment. However, due to the experience and qualifications of the consulting biologists involved in the surveys, this limitation is not expected to severely influence the results or substantially alter the findings of this NES.

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Chapter 3 – Results: Environmental Setting
Description of the Existing Physical and Biological Conditions The following sections discuss ecological conditions of the region and biological resources present within the BSA.

Study Area
The Project is located south of Auburn Boulevard and west of Sylvan Road within Citrus Heights, California, and partially within the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, a 47-acre open-space park with over 1.5 miles of walking paths along the Arcade and San Juan creeks. The Project area encompasses approximately 8.06 acres and accounts for all temporary and permanent impacts associated with construction, including proposed construction easements, temporary access roads, cut and fill limits, and potential staging areas. The BSA was defined as the area necessary for Project activities with an approximate 50-meter (165-foot) buffer to evaluate adjacent sensitive habitat resources and to accommodate for potential changes in the Project design. The BSA measures approximately 32.62 acres (Figure 4. Waters and Vegetation Communities).

Physical Conditions
The Project is located in the City of Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California, approximately 2.4 miles south of Interstate 80. Land use within the vicinity of the trail alignment includes open space, residential and commercial areas. The Project is located in the Sacramento Valley Floristic Province (Jepson 2025). Sacramento County experiences a mediterranean climate consisting of hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The average annual high temperature is approximately 75 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), and the average annual low temperature is approximately 49°F. The region averages 18.14 inches of precipitation annually (U.S. Climate Data 2025). The topography within the BSA is flat and the elevation of the BSA ranges between approximately 125 feet to 140 feet above mean sea level. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Custom Soil Resource Report was queried for the Project, and the soil types within the BSA include Fiddyment-Orangevale complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes (95.5% of the BSA) and Fiddyment-Orangevale-Urban land complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes (4.5% of the BSA) (NRCS 2025).

Hydrology
Two aquatic feature types were observed within the BSA during the October 2025 biological survey: Arcade Creek and its tributary (perennial stream channel), an ephemeral tributary to Arcade Creek, and portions of two manmade water quality/detention basins. Each is discussed individually below:

Arcade Creek
Arcade Creek, a perennial stream channel, flows northeast to southwest through the BSA, and holds water year-round.

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The mainstem of Arcade Creek, which originates in Orangevale and flows into the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal (also called Steelhead Creek), is approximately 16.2 miles long with a watershed area of about 29.7 square miles.

It ultimately discharges to the Sacramento River. Within the BSA, the Arcade Creek channel also includes a perennial tributary which splits off from the mainstem south of Huntington Square Lane (Figure 4). Historic aerial imagery indicates that the tributary once flowed south from Auburn Boulevard, but over time residential development shortened the channel, leaving only a remnant of the original tributary. The Arcade Creek channel and its tributary are part of the Arcade Creek watershed, a small, urbanized watershed covering approximately 38 square miles. Surrounding land use in the Arcade Creek watershed is primarily residential and commercial with transportation infrastructure such as roads, trails and parking lots. Historically, Arcade Creek functioned as a seasonal stream that carried water predominantly during the winter and spring months. In some years, portions of the creek and its tributaries would completely dry out during the summer. With increasing urbanization, the creek transitioned to a perennial system, likely beginning around 60 years ago. Today, dry-weather flows are sustained by inputs such as landscape irrigation runoff, car washing, industrial discharges, and other non-stormwater sources, resulting in Arcade Creek maintaining continuous flow throughout the year. A majority of surface water within Arcade Creek is urban runoff (City of Sacramento 2003).

Arcade Creek and its tributary comprise approximately 1.91 acres (6%) of the BSA.

Arcade Creek and its tributary are jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and state that are subject to the Section 401 and 404 of the CWA.

Ephemeral Tributary
During the October 2025 biological survey, an ephemeral tributary to Arcade Creek was observed within the western portion of the BSA. The tributary has two parts, a main larger tributary measuring approximately 5 feet wide, and a sub-tributary measuring approximately 2 feet wide. The ephemeral tributaries collect rainwater and stormwater runoff from Auburn Boulevard and the shopping center north of the project and carry it toward Arcade Creek. The east main tributary splits off Arcade Creek from the west, outside of the BSA and flows southwest from two ponded areas which empty into Arcade Creek. The smaller sub-tributary splits off from the main tributary channel and flows south from a detention basin located northwest of the BSA, eventually merging with the main tributary. At the time of the survey, pooled water was present within the main tributary, but no flows were exhibited. No water was present within the sub-tributary. The boundaries of the ephemeral tributary were mapped in the field in accordance with the following OHWM indicators: change in vegetation species and density, break in bank slope, and presence of a bed, bank and channel. Dominant vegetation observed within the bed, banks, and surrounding area of the ephemeral tributary includes curly dock (Rumex crispus), spreading rush (Juncus patens), interior live oak, and Himalayan blackberry. The BSA contains approximately 0.10 acres (<1%) of ephemeral tributary.

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Because the ephemeral tributary does not meet the “relatively permanent standard” under the current definition of waters of the U.S., it is considered a water of the state subject to Section 401 of the CWA.

Water Quality/Detention Basins
During the October 2025 field survey, portions of two water quality/detention basins were documented within the BSA. These areas are gently sloping, engineered depressions designed to capture and temporarily detain stormwater runoff.

The western basin was completely dry at the time of the survey. However, historic aerial imagery (from November 2023) indicates that the area becomes inundated with water during heavy rain events caused by stormwater runoff from the adjacent commercial and residential areas. The basin supports annual grassland habitat dominated by spikeweed (Centromadia fitchii) and wild oat (Avena fatua) which appeared to have been recently trimmed.

The eastern basin was full of water at the time of the survey. This basin is supplied by a small stream channel to the north, which collects stormwater runoff from adjacent residential homes to the east and the paved parking lot to the west. The connected stream channel originates at the homes along Gallant Circle and flows south and southeast before reaching the basin. According to historic aerial imagery, this basin tends to hold water longer than the western basin, allowing it to grow hydrophytic vegetation species such as broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), tule (Schoenoplectus acutus var. occidentalis), cottonwoods and willow trees (Salix lasiolepis, Salix gooddingii). At the time of the survey, the cattails and tules in the channel appeared to be in poor health and recently trimmed. The BSA contains approximately 1.18 acres (4%) of water quality/detention basins.

Because these basins are artificial ponds constructed in dry land for stormwater treatment and detention, they fall under the exclusion at 40 CFR § 120.2(b)(5) and therefore do not meet the current definition of waters of the U.S. In addition, permitting under Section 401 of the CWA is not warranted as there is little to no risk of discharge to another water body and there is no potential for the Project improvements to encroach on these features. As such, these features are not discussed further in the document.

Biological Conditions
Vegetation Communities
Plant and wildlife species observations within the BSA during the October 2025 biological survey efforts were used to define vegetation communities based on composition, abundance, and cover (Table 1. Species Observed List). As discussed above in the hydrology section, waters within the BSA include Arcade Creek and the tributary to Arcade Creek as well as two manmade water quality/detention basins. Natural vegetation communities within the BSA include annual grassland, riparian woodland and oak woodland. In addition, the BSA encompasses urban areas including paved parking lots, roadways, a wooden pedestrian bridge, sidewalks, residential homes and commercial businesses (Figure 4; Appendix E. Reference Photographs).

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Annual Grassland
Annual grasslands are open areas dominated primarily by annual plant species. In the BSA, this vegetation community is found along the edges of the two water quality/detention basins and the ephemeral tributary, bordering the oak woodland vegetation community. Common species observed in this vegetation community include wild oat, dogtail grass (Cynosurus echinatus), spikeweed, and common vetch (Vicia sativa). Annual grasslands cover approximately 2.70 acres (8%) within the BSA.

Riparian Woodland
The BSA includes a dense, mature riparian woodland that borders the length of Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary. This vegetation community is dominated by a variety of native tree species including valley oak (Quercus lobata), interior live oak (Quercus wislizeni), box elder (Acer negundo), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and northern California black walnut (Juglans hindsii). The understory is comprised of Himalayan blackberry, periwinkle (Vinca minor), Harding grass (Phalaris aquatica) and tall flat sedge (Cyperus eragrostis). Within the riparian woodland, two clusters of elderberry shrubs were observed: one located on the southern bank of Arcade Creek mainstem north of Hesperia Way and the second located on the north bank of Arcade Creek mainstem, south of the Walmart. . Riparian woodland provides suitable habitat for a variety of wildlife species including birds, mammals and insects. Riparian woodland comprises approximately 8.84 acres (27%) of the BSA.

Oak Woodland
The BSA includes mature oak woodland that occupies the upland areas of the site. This community is dominated by native oak tree species such as valley oak, blue oak (Quercus douglasii), and interior live oak. The canopy is moderately dense, providing partial shade and contributing to a well-developed litter layer of decomposing oak leaves and twigs. The understory consists primarily of native and non-native grasses and forbs, including wild oat, Italian rye grass (Festuca perennis), and English plantain (Plantago lanceolata). Seasonal herbaceous growth is most abundant in spring, while the summer understory tends to dry and thin considerably. Shrub species such as poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) are also common in this vegetation community. The oak woodland vegetation community provides important foraging, nesting, and cover opportunities for a variety of wildlife species. Oak woodlands comprise approximately 1.44 acres (4%) of the BSA.

Table 1. Species Observed
Common Name Scientific Name Native (N) / Non-Native (X) [Cal-IPC Rating]
Plant Species
American pokeweed Phytolacca americana X [Limited]
American sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua X
Arroyo willow Salix lasiolepis N
Baltic rush Juncus balticus N
Bigleaf maple Acer macrophyllum N
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Common Name Scientific Name Native (N) / Non-Native (X) [Cal-IPC Rating]
Blue elderberry Sambucus mexicana N
Blue oak Quercus douglasii N
Box elder Acer negundo N
Brazilian vervain Verbena litoralis X
Broadleaf cattail Typha latifolia N
Bur chervil Anthriscus caucalis X
California mugwort Artemisia douglasiana N
California pipevine Aristolochia californica N
California sycamore Platanus racemosa N
California wild grape Vitis californica N
Callery pear Pyrus calleryana X
Chicory Cichorium intybus X
Chinese elm Ulmus parvifolia X
Chinese photinia Photinia serratifolia X
Chinese pistache Pistacia chinensis X
Clustered dock Rumex conglomeratus X
Common knotweed Persicaria lapathifolia N
Common vetch Vicia sativa X
Coyote brush Baccharis pilularis N
Curly dock Rumex crispus X [Limited]
Dogbane Apocynum cannabinum N
Dogtail grass Cynosurus echinatus X [Moderate]
English ivy Hedera helix X [High]
English plantain Plantago lanceolata X [Limited]
Firethorn Pyracantha coccinea X [Limited]
Fremont cottonwood Populus fremontii N
French broom Genista monspessulana X [High]
Goodding’s willow Salix gooddingii N
Harding grass Phalaris aquatica X [Moderate]
Himalayan blackberry Rubus armeniacus X [High]
Honey locust Gleditsia triacanthos X
Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni N
Italian rye grass Festuca perennis X [Moderate]
Italian thistle Carduus tenuiflorus X [Limited]
Johnsongrass Sorghum halepense X
Northern California black
walnut
Juglans hindsii N
Olive tree Olea europaea X [Limited]
Oregon ash Fraxinus latifolia N
Pampas grass Cortaderia jubata X [High]
Periwinkle Vinca minor X
Poison oak Toxicodendron diversilobum N
Red willow Salix laevigata N
Rose clover Trifolium hirtum X [Limited]
Shumard oak Quercus shumardii X
Silk tree Albizia julibrissin X
Silver maple Acer saccharinum X
Smilo grass Stipa miliacea X
Southern catalpa Catalpa speciosa X
Spanish clover Acmispon americanus N
Spikeweed Centromadia fitchii N
Spreading rush Juncus patens N
Tall flat sedge Cyperus eragrostis N
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Common Name Scientific Name Native (N) / Non-Native (X) [Cal-IPC Rating]
Toyon Heteromeles arbutifolia N
Tree of heaven Ailanthus altissima X [Moderate]
Tule Schoenoplectus acutus var.
occidentalis
N
Valley oak Quercus lobata N
Velvet ash Fraxinus velutina N
White horehound Marrubium vulgare X [Limited]
Wild oat Avena fatua X [Moderate]
Yellow star thistle Centaurea solstitialis X [High]
Wildlife Species
Acorn woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus N
American robin Turdus migratorius N
Anna’s hummingbird Calypte anna N
Bewick’s wren Thryomanes bewickii N
Black phoebe Sayornis nigricans N
Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus X
California scrub jay Aphelocoma californica N
California towhee Melozone crissalis N
Canada goose Branta canadensis X
Cedar waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum N
Domestic cat Felis catus X
European starling Sturnus vulgaris X
House finch Haemorhous mexicanus N
Lesser goldfinch Spinus psaltria N
Mallard Anas platyrhynchos N
Mourning dove Zenaida macroura N
Northern flicker Colaptes auratus N
Northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos N
Nuttall’s woodpecker Dryobates nuttallii N
Oak titmouse Baeolophus inornatus N
Pacific chorus frog Pseudacris regilla N
Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus N
Spotted towhee Pipilo maculatus N
Tree squirrel Sciurus niger N
White-breasted nuthatch Sitta carolinensis N
Wild turkey Meleagris gallopavo X
1California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) Rating
Wildlife
The BSA contains a variety of waters and vegetation communities (riparian woodland, oak woodland, water quality/detention basin, perennial stream channel, ephemeral tributary and annual grassland) which support a diversity of native and non-native wildlife species, including birds, mammals and amphibians.

During the biological survey conducted on October 17, 2025, a high level of bird activity was observed throughout the BSA, particularly within the riparian woodland and oak woodland vegetation communities. Dominant bird species detected included acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus), California scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica), northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus), and northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos). The water quality/detention basins also support waterfowl such as Canada geese (Branta canadensis) and mallards (Anas platyrhynchos). Locally common ITEM 9
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amphibian species, pacific chorus frog (Pseudacris regilla) and bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) were also heard calling throughout the Arcade Creek corridor.

Habitat Connectivity
The CDFW Biogeographic Information & Observation System (CDFW 2025a) was reviewed to determine if the BSA is located within an Essential Connectivity Area. The BSA was determined to be within an area of Terrestrial Connectivity Rank 1 – Limited Connectivity Opportunity. This ranking indicates that either land-use conditions limit the potential for wildlife or ecological processes to move through that area (urban, agriculture), or that no significant connectivity importance has been identified in relevant models. Rank 1 areas are classified by CDFW as lower priority for connectivity conservation efforts compared to Ranks 2–5.

The Arcade Creek Trail extension will follow an existing informal dirt path that passes through the open space area north of Arcade Creek. The Project will not introduce new barriers or cause additional habitat fragmentation. Upon completion, the Project will allow for the continued movement of terrestrial wildlife across the trail and throughout the surrounding oak woodland, riparian woodland, and grassland habitats. Existing habitat connectivity will be maintained throughout Project implementation.

Regional Species and Habitats and Natural Communities of Concern Plant and wildlife species are considered to have special status if they have been listed as such by federal or state agencies or by one or more special interest groups, such as CNPS.

Prior to the field surveys, online databases from USFWS, CNDDB, CNPS and NMFS were queried for presence of potential threatened, endangered, rare, or special status species. Database search results identified ten special status or sensitive wildlife species and seven special status or sensitive plant species with potential of occurring in the vicinity of the BSA. Table 2 below includes a complete list of these special status species along with a discussion and determination of each species’ potential of occurring within the BSA. An analysis of habitat requirements, recorded observations, and field surveys determined that the following species have potential to occur within the BSA: song sparrow (“Modesto” population), Swainson’s hawk, white-tailed kite, VELB, and NWPT.

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Table 2: Special Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Vicinity Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Amphibian Species
Western spadefoot Spea hammondii Fed:

State:

CDFW:

PT
--
SSC
Inhabits open areas with sandy or
gravelly soils within mixed woodlands,
grasslands, coastal sage scrub,
chaparral, sandy washes, lowlands, river
floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali
flats, foothills, and mountains. Burrows
underground for most of the year and is
active above ground during rainfall.

Requires vernal, shallow, temporary
pools formed by heavy winter rains for
reproduction. These pools must be free
of bullfrogs, fish, and crayfish. Breeds
from late winter to March.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
shallow temporary pools required for
reproduction of this species. The nearest
CNDDB occurrence of the species is
located approximately 4.8 miles
southeast of the BSA at Phoenix Field
Vernal Pools (1995).

In addition, no small
mammal burrows were observed within
the BSA during the October 2025
biological survey. Based on lack of
suitable habitat features and lack of
nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent.

No impacts are
anticipated, and the Project will have no
effect on the species.

Bird Species
Bank swallow Riparia riparia Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
T
--
A migratory colonial nester inhabiting
lowland and riparian habitats west of the
deserts during spring through fall.

Majority of current breeding populations
occur along the Sacramento and
Feather Rivers in the north Central
Valley. Forages in grassland, brushland,
wetlands, and cropland during migration.

Requires vertical banks or cliffs with fine
textured/sandy soils for nesting (tunnel
and burrow excavations). Nests
exclusively near streams, rivers, lakes,
or the ocean. Breeds from May through
July.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
sandy cliffs or vertical banks required for
nesting. There is some grassland and
riparian habitat present within the BSA
that could be used as foraging habitat.

However, no individuals of the species
have been recorded along Arcade Creek
in the vicinity of the Project. The nearest
documented CNDDB occurrence is
located approximately 4 miles southeast
of the BSA, along the north bank of the
American River (1990). Based on the
lack of suitable nesting habitat and lack
of nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent, and no take will occur.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 23 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
CE
SSC
The species inhabits arid, open areas
with sparse vegetation cover such as
deserts, abandoned agricultural areas,
grasslands, and disturbed open habitats.

Can be associated with open shrub
stages of pinyon
-juniper and ponderosa
pine habitats. Nests in old small mammal
burrows but may dig own burrow in soft
soil. Nests are lined with excrement,
pellets, debris, grass, and feathers. The
species may use pipes, culverts, and
nest boxes, and even buildings where
burrows are scarce. Breeding occurs
March through August (below 5,300
feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA is
surrounded by urban development
(residential and commercial properties)
and lacks open areas with sparse
vegetation cover. No large burrows or
other evidence of burrowing owl
habitation was observed within the BSA
during the October 2025 biological
survey. The nearest CNDDB occurrence
of the species is located approximately

7.7 miles northwest of the BSA near the
City of Roseville (1998). Based on lack of
suitable habitat and evidence of
burrowing owls as well as the lack of
nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent, and no take will occur.

California black rail Laterallus
jamaicensis
coturniculus

Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
T
FP
A rare, yearlong California resident of
brackish and freshwater emergent
wetlands in delta and coastal locations
including the San Francisco Bay area,
Sacramento
–San Joaquin Delta , Morro
Bay, the Salton Sea, and lower Colorado
River. More than 90% of the species are
found in the tidal salt marshes of the
northern San Francisco Bay region,
predominantly in San Pablo and Suisun
Bays. Smaller populations occur in the
San Francisco Bay, the Outer Coast of
Marin County, and freshwater marshes
in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The
species is extirpated from San Diego
County and the majority of coastal
southern California. Occurs in tidal
emergent wetlands dominated by
pickleweed, in brackish marshes
A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks tidal
salt marsh and freshwater wetland
habitat. There are also no documented
CNDDB occurrences within 10 miles of
the BSA. Due to lack of suitable habitat
and lack of nearby occurrences, this
species is presumed absent, and no take
will occur
.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 24 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
dominated by bulrushes with
pickleweed, and in freshwater wetlands
dominated by bulrushes, cattails, and
salt grass. Species prefer high wetland
areas, away from areas experiencing
fluctuating water levels. Requires
vegetation providing adequate overhead
cover for nesting. Eggs are laid from
March through June.

Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
FP
Inhabits rolling foothills, mountain areas,
sage-juniper flats, and desert
communities. Requires open terrain for
hunting, often utilizing rolling foothills
and mountain terrain, wide arid plateaus
deeply cut by streams and canyons,
open mountain slopes, and cliffs and
rock outcrops, grasslands and early
successional stages of forest and shrub
habitats. Territory is estimated to
average 36 mi² in southern California
and 48 mi² in northern California. Nests
on cliffs of all heights and in large trees
in open
areas may reuse previous nest
sites. Breeds from late January through
August (0–11,500 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The Project occurs
in a highly developed area and lacks
open terrain for hunting. Although there
are mature trees along the riparian
corridor of Arcade Creek within the BSA,
they are surrounded by urban
development and do not provide optimal
nesting habitat for the species. No
individuals have ever been recorded
nesting in the area. Additionally, no
suitable nesting cliffs are present within
the Project vicinity. There are no CNDDB
occurrences of the species documented
within 10 miles of the BSA. Based on the
absence of suitable foraging and nesting
habitat and the lack of nearby occurrence
records, the species is presumed absent,
and no take will occur.

Grasshopper
sparrow
Ammodramus
savannarum
Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
SSC
Inhabits foothills and lowlands with dry,
dense, well -drained grasslands with a
variety of grasses, tall forbs, and shrubs
for perches. In southern California
largely utilizes hillsides, and lower
mountain slopes. Nests are composed of
grasses and forbs on
slight depressions
in the ground. Species may form small
A Presumed Absent: The BSA is in a
highly developed area and lacks large
contiguous open grassland habitat.

There are also no documented CNDDB
occurrences of the species within 10
miles of the BSA. Due to lack of suitable
habitat and lack of nearby occurrences,
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 25 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
groups when nesting. Breeds April
through July (0-5,000 feet).

this species is presumed absent, and
impacts are not anticipated.

Purple martin Progne subis Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
SSC
Present in California as a summer
migrant, arriving in March and departing
by late September. Inhabits valley
foothill and montane hardwood,
hardwood
-conifer, coniferous habitats,
and riparian habitats. Associated with
closed-cone pine- cypress, ponderosa
pine, Douglas-fir, and redwood. Nests in
tall, old, isolated trees or snags in open
forest or woodland and in proximity to a
body of water. Frequently nests within
former woodpecker cavities and may
nest in human
-made structures such as
nesting boxes, under bridges and in
culverts. Needs abundant aerial insect
prey. Breeds April through August.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
mature riparian trees along Arcade
Creek that may provide suitable nesting
sites for the species. The nearest
CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 6.1 miles northeast of the
BSA, in which a nesting pair was
observed at the Highway 65
Overpass
over Taylor Road on the south edge of
Rocklin (2007). Although it is possible for
a purple martin to occur within the BSA,
it is unlikely due to their reliance on
human
-made structures for nesting
within Sacramento and Placer Counties
(Airola & Grantham 2003). Furthermore,
no individuals were observed during the
May 2024 biological survey, and the
presence of European starlings and
acorn woodpeckers, both of which
compete with purple martins for nesting
sites, further reduces the likelihood of
their occurrence. Given the lack of recent
sightings in the Secret Ravine area and
the presence of competitive species, it is
unlikely that purple martins inhabit the
Project vicinity. Due to this species
pattern of occurrence along with the lack
of observations of the species within the
BSA, the purple martin is presumed
absent, and impacts are not anticipated.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 26 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Song sparrow
(“Modesto”
population)
Melospiza melodia
pop. 1
Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
SSC
An endemic bird found exclusively in the
north-central portion of the Central
Valley, with highest densities in the Butte
Sink and Sacramento –San Joaquin
River Delta. The species is usually found
in open brushy habitats, along the
borders of ponds or streams, abandoned
pastures, desert washes, thickets, or
woodland edges. In addition, there is a
strong affinity for emergent freshwater
marshes dominated by tules and cattails,
riparian willow thi ckets, and valley oak
forests with a blackberry understory.

Nests found in base of shrubs or clumps
of grass, requiring low, dense vegetation
for cover, usually near water. Breeds
from March through August.

HP Low Potential: The BSA contains
mature riparian habitat along Arcade
Creek containing oak trees and
blackberry that may provide suitable
habitat for the species. There is one
CNDDB occurrence within 10 miles of
the BSA, located approximately 9.2 miles
southwest in which
a specimen was
collected (1990). The CNDDB
occurrence notes indicate that
development has replaced much of the
wetlands and other suitable habitat in the
area, so it is unlikely that this species is
still present there. Based on the
potentially suitable habitat present
onsite, this species has a low potential to
occur within the BSA.

See Chapter 4 for
details and analysis.

Swainson’s hawk Buteo swainsoni Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
T
--
Inhabits grasslands with scattered trees,
juniper-sage flats, riparian areas,
savannahs, and agricultural or ranch
lands with groves or lines of trees.

Requires adjacent suitable forage areas
such as grasslands, alfalfa or grain fields
that support a stable rodent prey base.

Breeds March to late August.

HP Low Potential: The BSA is highly
developed and lacks open grasslands or
other suitable foraging habitat. There are
mature oak trees along the riparian
corridor of Arcade Creek and in the oak
woodland habitat that could be utilized as
nesting habitat. However, the species
has never been recorded nesting in the
area. The nearest documented CNDDB
occurrence is located approximately 4.8
miles south of the BSA in which a nest
was observed in a eucalyptus tree near
Ancil Hoffman Park (2004). There is also
a nearby iNaturalist occurrence of the
species located approximately 2.2 miles
southwest of the BSA along Wendal
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 27 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Lane, recorded in August 2025. Based
on the presence of suitable nesting
habitat and nearby occurrences, this
species has a low potential to occur
within the BSA..

Tricolored
blackbird
Agelaius tricolor Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
T
SSC
Inhabits freshwater marsh, swamp and
wetland communities, but may utilize
agricultural or upland habitats that can
support large colonies, often in the
Central Valley area. Requires dense
nesting habitat that is protected from
predators, is within 3
–5 mile s from a
suitable foraging area containing insect
prey and is within 0.3 miles of open
water. Suitable foraging includes
wetland, pastureland, rangeland, at dairy
farms, and some irrigated croplands
(silage, alfalfa, etc.). Nests in dense
cattails, tules, will ow, blackberry, wild
rose, or tall herbs. Nests mid
-March to
early August but may extend until
October or November in the Sacramento
Valley region.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
two water quality/ detention basins, one
of which holds standing water and
supports vegetation such as cattails,
tules, and willows, which are typically
used by tricolored blackbirds for nesting.

At the time of the biological survey,
however, the cattails and tules appeared
recently trimmed and lacked the dense
structure required for nesting.

Furthermore, there are no agricultural
fields or undeveloped open habitats
within 3
–5 miles that could provide
suitable foraging areas. The BSA is
surrounded by highly developed
residential and commercial areas, which
are likely unsuitable for supporting
individuals of the species
. The nearest
CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 5.2 miles northeast of the
BSA within Granite Bay (1999).

According to the CNDDB occurrence
notes, on subsequent surveys of the
same area in April 2011 and 2014, no
individuals of the species were observed.

Based on
the absence of dense nesting
vegetation, the lack of nearby foraging
habitat, and the surrounding urbanized
landscape, this species is presumed
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 28 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
absent. No take will occur, and impacts
are not anticipated.

Western yellow-
billed cuckoo
Coccyzus
americanus
occidentalis
Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
E
--
Species inhabits riparian forests, along
broad, lower flood bottoms of larger river
systems. Nests in large blocks of riparian
forests, often mixed with cottonwoods.

Nesting appears to be preferred in
riparian forest habitats with a dense
understory; it requires water near
nesting site. Breeds June to August.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
an approximately 12-acre riparian
corridor along Arcade Creek. However,
this species prefers large (at least 50
acres), contiguous patches of
multilayered riparian habitat for nesting
(NPS 2025). In addition, there are no
presumed extant CNDDB occurrences of
the species within 10 miles of the BSA.

Based on the lack of suitable large
riparian forest habitat and the lack of
nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent.

No take will occur.

The Project will have no effect on the
species.

White-tailed kite Elanus leucurus Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
FP
Inhabits rolling foothills and valley
margins with scatter ed oaks and river
bottomlands or marshes next to
deciduous woodland. Prefers open
grasslands, meadows or marshes for
foraging close to isolated, dense
-topped
trees for nesting and perching. In
southern California, it will roost in
saltgrass and Bermuda grass. Often
found near agricultural lands. Nests are
placed near the tops of dense oak,
willow, or other tree stands. Breeds
February through October.

HP Low Potential: The BSA is surrounded
by urban development and lacks open
grasslands, meadows and marshes that
could be used as foraging habitat. The
riparian corridor along Arcade Creek
along with the oak woodland habitat
contains mature oak trees that may
provide suitable nesting habitat for the
species. The nearest CNDDB
occurrence is located approximately 3.5
miles northeast of the BSA at
Woodbridge Park in Orangevale in which
a pair nested in a large tree south of the
pond (1992). Due to the presence of
potentially suitable nesting habitat, this
species has a low potential to occur.

Fish Species
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 29 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Chinook Salmon
Central Valley
spring-run ESU
Oncorhynchus
tshawytscha
pop. 11
Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
T
--
Spring-run Chinook enter the
Sacramento –San Joaquin River system
to spawn, requiring larger gravel particle
size and more water flow through their
redds than other salmonids. The
remaining runs occur in Butte, Mill, Deer,
Antelope, and Beegum Creeks,
tributaries to the Sacramento River.

Known to occur in Siskiyou and Trinity
counties.

EFH Presumed Absent: Arcade Creek is
considered EFH for Chinook salmon as it
is within the Lower American- Below
Nimbus Watershed (NOAA 2025).

However, the BSA encompasses a
highly urbanized reach of Arcade Creek
with limited flow, poor water quality, and
degraded habitat, making it unsuitable
for salmon spawning or rearing. In
addition,
a ccording to the City of
Sacramento's "Existing Conditions and
Assessment Report and Stream Corridor
Management Plan for the Arcade Creek
Watershed," Chinook salmon and
steelhead trout have not been reported in
Arcade Creek for over 20 years. This
absence is attributed to the lack of
suitable rearing and spawning habitats,
as well as low summer flows, which are
not conducive to supporting these
species (
Jones & Stokes 2007).

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 30 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Chinook Salmon
Sacramento River
winter-run ESU
Oncorhynchus
tshawytscha pop. 7
Fed:

State:

CDFW:

E
E
--
Winter-run Chinook are currently
restricted within the Sacramento River
below Keswick dam; species do not
spawn in tributaries. Species require
cold water over gravel beds to spawn.

A Presumed Absent: Arcade Creek is
considered EFH for Chinook salmon as it
is within the Lower American -Below
Nimbus Watershed (NOAA 2025).

However, the BSA encompasses a
highly urbanized reach of Arcade Creek
with limited flow, poor water quality, and
degraded habitat, making it unsuitable
for salmon spawning or rearing.

According to the City of Sacramento's
"Existing Conditions and Assessment
Report and Stream Corridor
Management Plan for the Arcade Creek
Watershed," Chinook salmon and
steelhead trout have not been reported in
Arcade Creek for over 20 years. This
absence is attributed to the lack of
suitable rearing and spawning habitats,
as well as low summer flows, which are
not conducive to supporting these
species (
Jones & Stokes 2007).

Furthermore, Skyler Burson, District
Anadromous Fisheries Biologist with
CDFW Region 2 was contacted in
January 2026 regarding anadromous
fish presence in Arcade Creek within the
BSA. They indicated that the likelihood of
listed fish occurring in this reach of
Arcade and Cripple Creeks is very low;
while occasional fall
- run Chinook
salmon have been observed, these fish
are likely hatchery -origin or unable to
successfully spawn due to limited
habitat. In addition, this species is
currently restricted to the Sacramento
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 31 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
River below Keswick Dam. Based on this
information, this species is presumed
absent.

Steelhead
California Central
Valley DPS
Oncorhynchus
mykiss irideus pop.
11 Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
--
SSC
This species is known to occur along
most of the California coastline and
inhabits freshwater streams and
tributaries in northern and central
California. The preferred habitat consists
of estuaries, freshwater streams and
near shore habitat with productive costal
oceans. Spawning occurs in small
freshwater streams and tributaries
occurs from January through March and
could extend into spring. Spawning
occurs where cool, well oxygenated
water is available year
-round.

Approximately 550 -1,300 eggs are
deposited in an area with good
intergravel flow. The fry emerge from the
grav
el about 4-6 six weeks after hatching
and remain in shallow protected areas
associated with stream margin.

Juveniles may remain in freshwater for
the rest of their life cycle or return to the
ocean. The principal remaining wild
populations spawn annually in Deer and
Mill Creeks in Tehama County, in the
lower Yuba River, and a small population
in the lower Stanislaus River.

A Presumed Absent: According to the
City of Sacramento's "Existing
Conditions and Assessment Report and
Stream Corridor Management Plan for
the Arcade Creek Watershed," Chinook
salmon and steelhead trout have not
been reported in Arcade Creek for over
20 years. This absence
is attributed to
the lack of suitable rearing and spawning
habitats, as well as low summer flows,
which are not conducive to supporting
these species (
Jones & Stokes 2007).

while occasional adult steelhead have
been observed, these fish are likely
hatchery
-origin or unable to successfully
spawn due to limited habitat. Critical
habitat for this species is also not within
the BSA. The nearest critical habitat is
approximately 3 miles north of the BSA
within Dry Creek.

Based on this
information, this species is presumed
absent.

Invertebrate Species
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 32 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Crotch’s bumble
bee
Bombus crotchii Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
CE
--
This species is known to occur in central
California, Nevada south to Baja
California and into Mexico. Inhabits
coastal areas, deserts and the Central
Valley. The species nests underground
in grassland, shrubland and chaparral
habitats. The species has a short tongue
and primarily feeds on the following
plants Asclepias, Chaenactis, Lupinus,
Medicago, Phacelia
and Salvia.

A Presumed Absent: Although there is
marginal grassland habitat present within
the BSA, it lacks suitable foraging plants
for this species including Asclepias,
Chaenactis, Lupinus, Medicago,
Phacelia and Salvia. There are also no
CNDDB occurrences within 10 miles of
the BSA. Due to lack of suitable foraging
habitat and lack of nearby occurrences,
this species is presumed absent, and no
take will occur.

Valley elderberry
longhorn beetle
Desmocerus
californicus
dimorphus

Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
--
--
Species requires red or blue elderberry
(Sambucus sp.) as host plants. Typically
occurs in moist valley oak woodlands
associated with riparian corridors in the
lower Sacramento River and upper San
Joaquin River drainages. Adults are
active, feeding, and breeding from
March until June (sea level to 3,000
fee
t).

HP High Potential: There is riparian and
oak woodland habitat that could provide
suitable habitat for this species. The
nearest CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 6 miles northeast of the
BSA at a VELB mitigation site (2006). In
addition,
one elderberry shrub cluster
was observed within the BSA during the
October 2025 biological survey, with
several exit holes observed. Due to the
presence of this species host plant, and
the presence of exit holes, this species
has a high potential to occur.

However,
given the location of the elderberry shrub
in relation to the Project footprint and the
nature of the proposed Project there
would be no effect to the species. See
Chapter 4 for details and analysis.

Vernal pool fairy
shrimp
Branchinecta lynchi Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
--
--
In California, the species inhabits
portions of Tehama County, south
through the Central Valley, and
scattered locations in Riverside County
and the Coast Ranges. The species is
associated with smaller and shallower
A Presumed Absent: There are no vernal
pools present within the BSA. Due to lack
of suitable habitat, this species is
presumed absent.

The Project will have
no effect on the species.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 33 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
cool-water vernal pools approximately 6
inches deep and short periods of
inundation. In the southernmost
extremes of the ra nge, the species
occurs in large, deep cool -water pools.

Inhabited pools have low to moderate
levels of alkalinity and total dissolved
solids. The shrimp are temperature
sensitive, requiring pools below 50 F to
hatch and dying within pools reaching 75
F. Young emerge during cold
-weather
winter storms.

Vernal pool
tadpole shrimp
Lepidurus packardi Fed:

State:

CDFW:

E
--
--
Distribution of vernal pool tadpole shrimp
is patchy from Shasta County to Tulare
County. Inhabits vernal pools and
swales containing clear to highly turbid
waters such as pools located in grass
bottomed swales of unplowed
grasslands, old alluvial soils underlain by
hardpan, and mud
-bottomed pools with
highly turbid water. Can also be found in
ephemeral drainages, stock ponds,
reservoirs, and ditches.

A Presumed Absent: There are no vernal
pools present within the BSA. Due to lack
of suitable habitat, this species is
presumed absent. The Project will have
no effect on the species.

Mammal Species
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 34 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
American badger Taxidea taxus Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
SSC
Prefers treeless, dry, open stages of
most shrub and herbaceous habitats
with friable soils and a supply of rodent
prey. Species also inhabits forest
glades, meadows, marshes, brushy
areas, hot deserts, and mountain
meadows. Species maintains burrows
within home ranges estimated between
338
-1,700 acres, dependent on
seasonal activity. Burrows are frequently
re-used, but new burrows may be
created nightly. Young are born in March
and April within burrows dug in relatively
dry, often sandy, soil, usually in areas
with sparse overstory cover. Species is
somewhat tolerant of human activity, but
is sensitive to automobile mortality,
trapping, and persistent poisons (up to
12,000 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA is
surrounded by urban development and
lacks open shrub and/or herbaceous
habitats. No large burrows or other
evidence such as tracks or scat were
observed within the BSA during the
October 2025 biological survey. There is
only one CNDDB occurrence
documented within 10 miles of the BSA,
located approximately 8.3 miles east in
which 1 dead adult badger was observed
in the center median of East Natoma
Street (May 2015). Based on the lack of
contiguous natural habitat, along with the
lack of nearby occurrences and suitable
habitat features (burrows), this species is
presumed absent, and impacts are not
anticipated
.

Pallid bat Antrozous pallidus Fed:

State:

CDFW:
--
--
SSC
Inhabits low elevations of deserts,
grasslands, shrub lands, woodlands and
forests year -round. Most common in
open, dry habitats with rocky areas for
roosting. Forages over open ground
within 1
-3 miles of day roosts. Prefers
caves, crevices, and mines for day
roosts, but may utilize hollow trees,
bridges and buildings. Roosts must
protect bats from high temperatures.

Very sensitive to disturbance of roosting
sites. Maternity colonies form early April
and young are born April
-July (below
10,000 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA does not
provide suitable roosting habitat for this
species, including caves, bridges
crevices, mines, or buildings.

Additionally, the BSA is surrounded by
urban development and lacks open, dry
areas with rocky substrates that could
support the species. There is only one
documented CNDDB occurrence within
10 miles of the BSA located
approximately 5.0 miles east in which 1
female specimen was collected (1941).

Based on the lack of suitable roosting
habitat and lack of evidence of bats
utilizing the BSA, this species is
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 35 April 2026
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
presumed absent, and impacts are not
anticipated.

Reptile Species
Giant garter snake Thamnophis gigas Fed:

State:

CDFW:

T
T
--
A highly aquatic species that inhabits
marshes, swamps, wetlands (including
agricultural wetlands), sloughs, ponds,
rice fields, low gradient streams and
irrigation/drainage canals adjacent to
uplands. Ideal habitat contains both
shallow and deep water with variations in
topography. The species requires
adequate water during the active season
(April through November), emergent,
herbaceous wetland vegetation, such as
cattails and bulrushes, for escape cover
and foraging habitat and mammal
burrows estivation.

Requires grassy
banks and openings in waterside
vegetation for basking and higher
elevation uplands for cover and refuge
from flood waters during winter dormant
season. Mating occurs in the spring and
females bear live young.

A Presumed Absent: The BSA is outside
of the current USFWS-designated range
of the species. There are also no CNDDB
occurrences within 10 miles of the BSA.

Due to this species current range and
lack of suitable habitat features and
occurrences, this species is presumed
abse
nt. No take will occur. The P roject
will have no effect on the species.

Northwestern pond
turtle
Actinemys
marmorata
Fed:

State:

CDFW:

PT
--
SSC
A fully aquatic turtle of ponds, lakes,
rivers, streams, creeks, marshes, and
irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation.

Suitable habitat includes woodland,
forests, and grasslands. Requires logs,
rocks, cattail mats, and exposed banks
for basking. Suitable upland habitat
(sandy banks or grassy open field) is
required for reproduction, which begins
in April and ends with egg laying as late
as August (sea level to 4,700 feet).

HP Low Potential: The BSA contains
Arcade Creek and water
quality/detention basins which provides
suitable aquatic habitat for the species.

There is also annual grassland habitat
present upland of the aquatic habitat
which could provide suitable nesting
habitat for the species.

According to the
City of Sacramento's "Existing
Conditions and Assessment Report and
Stream Corridor Management Plan for
the Arcade Creek Watershed”,
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
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Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
northwestern pond turtles have been
observed in the Arcade Creek stream
corridor during spring and summer 2007
field surveys (Jones & Stokes 2007). The
nearest CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 6.4 miles northeast of the
BSA within the Baldwin Reservoir
Wetland and Wildlife Preserve in Granite
Bay (1997). Based on the potentially
suitable habitat present, this species has
a low potentia
l to occur. See Chapter 4
for details and analysis.

Plant Species

Ahart's dwarf rush

Juncus leiospermus
var. ahartii
Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.2
An annual grasslike herb inhabiting
grassland swales, gopher mounds,
freshwater wetlands, wetland
-riparian
habitats and foothill grassland
communities. Flowers March–May (100–
750 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
riparian habitat along the banks of
Arcade Creek but lacks wetland areas
where this species is normally found.

There are no CNDDB occurrences within
10 miles of the BSA, and all CNPS
occurrences of the species are located
south of Highway
50 in a more
undeveloped area. Based on lack of
suitable wetland habitat along with the
lack of nearby occurrences, this species
is presumed absent, and impacts are not
anticipated.

Big-scale
balsamroot
Balsamorhiza
macrolepis

Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.2
A perennial herb inhabiting open grassy
or rocky slopes and valleys within
chaparral, cismontane woodland, valley
and foothill grassland communities;
sometimes occurs in serpentinite soils.

Flowers March
-June (300-5,100 feet).

A Presumed Absent: There is marginal
suitable grassland habitat present within
the BSA. However, no individuals of the
species were observed within the BSA
during the October 2025 biological
survey. The nearest CNDDB occurrence
is approximately 7.1 miles south of the
BSA, recorded in 1958. Based on the
lack of nearby occurrences and lack of
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
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Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
observation of the species during the
biological survey, it is presumed absent,
and impacts are not anticipated .

Boggs Lake
hedge-hyssop
Gratiola heterosepala Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
E
1B.2
An annual herb inhabiting clay soils and
shallow waters of marshes, swamps,
lake margins, and vernal pools. Flowers
April–August (30–7,800 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
marshes, swamps, lake margins and
vernal pools. The nearest presumed
extant CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 5.8 miles northwest of the
BSA in vernal pool habitat (2019). Due to
lack of suitable habitat within the BSA,
this species
is presumed absent. No take
will occur, and impacts are not
anticipated.

Dwarf downingia Downingia pusilla Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
2B.2
An annual herb inhabiting vernal pools
and mesic soils in valley and foothill
grassland communities. Flowers March
to May (0
–1,500 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
vernal pool habitat and mesic soils. The
nearest CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 4.8 miles southeast of the
BSA within Phoenix Park, east of Fair
Oaks (1976). Based on lack of vernal
pool habitat, this species is presumed
absent, and impacts are not anticipated.

Hispid salty bird’s-
beak
Chloropyron molle
ssp. hispidum
Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.1
An annual herb inhabiting moist alkaline
soils of saline marshes and flats,
meadows and seeps, playas, and valley
and foothill grassland communities.

Flowers June
-July (0-500 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
alkaline soils within saline marsh,
meadows, playas and valley grassland
habitat. There is only one documented
CNDDB occurrence within 10 miles of
the BSA, located approximately 8.9 miles
northeast of the BSA, within Stanford
Ranch Alkali Seep Preserve (1997).

Based on lack of suitable habitat and lack
of nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent, and impacts are not
anticipated
.

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Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Legenere Legenere limosa Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.1
An annual herb endemic to California
occurring in wetlands, vernal pools
valley grassland and wetland -riparian
areas. Flowers April to June (0 -3,500
feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
riparian habitat alon g Arcade Creek but
lacks wetlands and vernal pools. The
nearest CNDDB occurrence is
approximately 8.4 miles southeast of the
BSA in north Sacramento within wetland
habitat (1991). Due to lack of suitable
wetland habitat along with the lack of
nearby occurrences, this species is
presumed absent, and impacts are not
anticipated.

Pincushion
navarretia
Navarretia myersii
ssp. myersii
Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.1
An annual herb native to California
inhabiting vernal pool communities,
often in acidic soil conditions. Flowers
April
-May (65-1,080 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
acidic soils and vernal pool habitat.

There is only one CNDDB occurrence
within 10 miles of the BSA, located
approximately 4.9 miles southwest of the
BSA at Phoenix Park in Fair Oaks within
shallow, dry vernal pools (2015). Due to
lack of suitable habitat within the BSA,
this species is presumed absent, and
impacts are not anticipated.

Red Bluff dwarf
rush
Juncus leiospermus
var. leiospermus
Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.1
An annual herb inhabiting vernally mesic
soils of chaparral, cismontane woodland,
meadows and seeps, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pool communities.

Flowers April
-June (100-4,100 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA occurs in a
dry area and lacks vernally mesic soils.

There is also no chaparral, cismontane
woodland, meadows, seeps, vernal
pools, or valley foothill grassland habitats
within the BSA. There is only one
CNDDB occurrence within 10 miles of
the BSA, located approximately 7.9 miles
north (1997). Due to lack of suitable
habitat and lack of nearby occurrences,
this species is presumed absent, and
impacts are not anticipated.

Sacramento Orcutt
grass

Orcuttia viscida
Fed:

State:

E
E
An annual herb inhabiting vernal pools,
freshwater wetlands, valley grassland
A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
the riparian corridor of Arcade Creek but
ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
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Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
CNPS: 1B.1 and wetland-riparian areas. Flowers
April to July (100–330 feet).
lacks wetland habitat where this species
is normally found. The nearest presumed
extant CNDDB occurrence is located
approximately 4.9 miles southeast of the
BSA within the Phoenix Vernal Pool
Complex (2022). Due to lack of suitable
wetland habitat, this species is presumed
absent. No take will occur, and impacts
are not anticipated. The
Project will have
no effect to this species.

Sanford's
arrowhead
Sagittaria sanfordii Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.2
A perennial rhizomatous herb inhabiting
freshwater marshes, swamps, ponds,
and ditches. Flowers May to October (0–
2,130 feet).

HP Low Potential: Arcade Creek, the
Arcade Creek tributary and the water
quality/detention basins within the BSA
may provide suitable aquatic habitat for
this species. The nearest documented
CNDDB occurrence of the species is
approximately 2.2 miles northeast of the
BSA within Sunrise Creek (1994). No
individuals of the species were observed
during the
October 2025 biological
survey. Based on the potentially suitable
habitat and the nearby occurrences, this
species has a low potential to occur
within the BSA.

See Chapter 4 for details
and analysis.

Slender Orcutt
grass
Orcuttia tenuis Fed:

State:

CNPS:

T
E
1B.1
An annual herb inhabiting vernal pools,
often within gravelly soils. Flowers May
to October (115–5,775 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
vernal pool habitat and gravelly soils.

There is only one CNDDB occurrence
within 10 miles of the BSA, located
approximately 9.9 miles southeast near
Mather Air Force Base (2012). Based on
lack of suitable habitat and lack of nearby
occurrences, this species is presumed
absent, and impacts are not anticipated.

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Federal Designations (Fed):
(FESA, USFWS)
E: Federally listed, endangered
PT: Federally listed, proposed threatened
T: Federally listed, threatened
DL: Federally listed, delisted

State Designations (CA):
(CESA, CDFW)
E: State listed, endangered
T: State listed, threatened
CE: State listed, candidate endangered
Other Designations
Common Name Species Name Status General Habitat Description Habitat Present Potential for Occurrence and Rationale
Spicate
calycadenia
Calycadenia spicata Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.3
An annual herb endemic to California
inhabiting slopes in foothill woodland
and valley grassland habitat
communities. Blooms May -September
(245-2,295 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA contains
marginal grassland habitat and oak
woodland riparian that may provide
suitable habitat for this species.

However, it is highly fragmented and
surrounded by urban development.

There are three CNDDB occurrence
within 10 miles of the BSA, with the
nearest approximately 6.5 miles
southeast, near the City of Folsom
(1955). All CNPS occurrences of the
species are located south of Highway 50
in more undeveloped areas. No
individuals of this species were observed
within the BSA during the biological
survey.

Therefore, this species is not
expect to occur within the BSA, and
impacts are not anticipated
Suisun marsh
aster
Symphyotrichum
lentum
Fed:

State:

CNPS:
--
--
1B.2
A perennial rhizomatous herb endemic
to California inhabiting wetlands,
freshwater marsh, and brackish -marsh
communities. Flowers May to November
(0–10 feet).

A Presumed Absent: The BSA lacks
wetlands, freshwater marsh and
brackish-marsh communities. There are
no CNDDB occurrence documented
within 10 miles of the BSA. The elevation
range where this species is normally
found is also below the elevation range
within the BSA. Due to lack of suitable
habitat and lack of nearby occurrences,
this species is presumed absent.

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 41 April 2026
CDFW_SSC: CDFW Species of Special Concern
CDFW_FP: CDFW Fully Protected

California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Designations:
*Note: according to CNPS (Skinner and Pavlik 1994), plants on Lists 1B and 2 meet definitions for listing as threatened or endangered under Section 1901, Chapter 10 of the California Fish and Game Code. This interpretation is inconsistent with other definitions. 1A: Plants presumed extinct in California.
1B: Plants rare and endangered in California and throughout their range. 2: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere in their range. 3: Plants about which need more information; a review list.

Plants 1B, 2, and 4 extension meanings:
_.1 Seriously endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat) _.2 Fairly endangered in California (20-80% occurrences threatened) _.3 Not very endangered in California (<20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats known) Habitat Potential
Absent [A] - No habitat present and no further work needed.

Habitat Present [HP] - Habitat is or may be present. The species may be present.

Critical Habitat [CH] – Project is within designated Critical Habitat.

Potential for Occurrence Criteria:

Present: Species was observed on site during a site visit or focused survey.

High: Habitat (including soils and elevation factors) for the species occurs on site and a known occurrence has been recorded within 5 miles of the site.

Low-Moderate: Either low quality habitat (including soils and elevation factor s) for the species occurs on site and a known occurrence ex ists within 5 miles of the site; or suitable habitat strongly associated with the species occurs on site, but no records were found within the database search.

Presumed Absent: Focused surveys were conducted, and the species was not found, or species was found within the database search but habitat (including soils and elevation factors) do not exist on site, or the known geographic range of the species does not include the survey area.

Source: (CDFW 2025b), (CNPS 2025), (Calflora 2025), (Jepson 2025), (USFWS 2026), (NMFS 2025).

ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
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Chapter 4 – Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts, and Mitigation
Habitats and Natural Communities of Special Concern
Habitats are considered to be of special concern based on (1) federal, state, or local laws regulating their development; (2) limited distributions; and/or (3) the habitat requirements of special status plants or animals occurring on site. Wetlands and waters of the United States are also considered sensitive by both federal and State agencies.

Within the BSA, Arcade Creek has been identified as a natural community of special concern as it is a jurisdictional water of the U.S. and state. The ephemeral tributary also qualifies as a water of the state and therefore is included as natural community of special concern. Avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation measures for Arcade Creek and its tributary are discussed below. Additionally, oak woodland, and riparian woodland occur within the BSA and are considered natural communities of special concern as they provide potentially suitable habitat for special status plant and wildlife species. These natural communities are shown in Figure 4. In addition, Table 3.

Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats and Figure 5. Project Impacts summarize the Project’s effects on these natural communities.

Table 3. Impacts to Sensitive Natural Habitats

Impact
Type

Sensitive Natural Habitat
Oak
Woodland
Perennial
Stream
Channel
Riparian
Woodland
Temporary 0.17 acres 0.10 acres 0.89 acres
Permanent 0.02 acres 0.01 acres 0.20 acres
Total 0.19 acres 0.11 acres 0.99 acres

Discussion of Perennial Stream Channel
The perennial stream channel habitat includes Arcade Creek and its tributary. Arcade Creek, a perennial stream channel, flows northeast to southwest through the BSA. Also included in this habitat is the Arcade Creek tributary, which flows southeast into Arcade Creek. The channel originates in Orangevale and flows into the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal, which ultimately discharges to the Sacramento River. The tributary is fed almost entirely by urban stormwater runoff carried through a series of stormwater inlets and culverts from the surrounding development. Within the BSA, the channel has highly incised banks and the width of the channel ranges from approximately 10 to 60 feet. As a perennial channel, water is present year-round. The larger creek watershed is ITEM 9
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frequently bisected by roadways and is lined by both residential and commercial developments. Local urbanization has resulted in the proliferation of non-native and invasive species, a degradation in water quality, and a decrease in bank stability as a result of the altered hydrologic flows (DPR 2003).

Survey Results
During the aquatic resource delineation conducted on October 17, 2025, observed OHWM indicators in the mainstem of Arcade Creek and its tributary included a defined break in bank slope, exposed roots along the banks, evidence of slope erosion, formation of benches, accumulation of drift and debris, a defined bed and bank, and observable changes in vegetation species composition and density. Arcade Creek and its tributary contained standing water; however, no active flow was observed. The channel and its tributary exhibited deeply incised banks with evidence of localized erosion, and the width of the channel ranges from approximately 10 to 60 feet. There is a wooden pedestrian boardwalk west of the BSA which crosses over the mainstem of Arcade Creek and runs south to north from Stock Ranch Road to the back parking lot of Costco. There is evidence of human modification within the bed and banks of Arcade Creek near the pedestrian boardwalk including culverts, a pipeline, rock slope protection (RSP) and erosion control matting. In addition, the tributary to Arcade Creek contained a significant amount of trash within the channel, likely attributed to the adjacent residential and commercial developments. The tributary receives water primarily from stormwater runoff generated by impervious surfaces associated with the apartment complex to the north and other surrounding development. All upstream water sources are routed through underground pipes and discharge at the tributary outlet, rather than flowing overland or from natural sources. As a result, the tributary is fed almost entirely by urban stormwater runoff.

Dominant vegetation observed within the bed and banks and riparian area of Arcade Creek and its tributary include southern catalpa trees (Catalpa speciosa), common knotweed (Persicaria lapathifolia), interior live oak trees (Quercus wislizeni) and Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus). Within the BSA, this habitat community comprises approximately 1.91 acres.

Project Impacts
Construction of the trail will result in approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impacts to Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary due to access during installation of the gabion basket wall and placement of the prefabricated bridge. The bridge crossing over the Arcade Creek tributary will not require dewatering or any in-channel work, as it will be a prefabricated bridge and set over the creek using a crane or other heavy equipment. The bridge abutments will also be constructed outside of the OHWM of the Arcade Creek tributary so no excavation within the channel is anticipated. As a result, temporary impacts associated with prefabricated bridge placement would be limited to short-term increases in noise and vibration within the immediate work area.

Approximately 0.01 acres of permanent impacts are also anticipated within Arcade Creek due to the installation of a gabion basket wall along an actively eroding section of the channel (Figure 5). RSP is currently not anticipated at the bridge abutments but ITEM 9
Natural Environment Study
NES 45 April 2026
may be required based on future refinements in design and hydraulic studies and, if required, would be minimal.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
The following avoidance and minimization measures will be incorporated into the Project design and Project construction to reduce potential impacts to perennial stream channel habitat:

BIO-1: Every individual working on the Proje ct must attend a biological awareness training session conducted by the Project biologist. This training program will include information regarding the sensitive habitats and an overview of special status wildlife species that may be encountered within the work area. During biological awareness training, construction personnel will be briefed on topics including, but not limited to, the protected status of the valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB) and the northwestern pond turtle (NWPT), as well as the need to protect elderberry shrubs, the host plant of VELB.

BIO-2: Prior to the start of construction activi ties, the Project limits adjacent to the Arcade Creek, the Arcade Creek tributary and the riparian woodland habitat will be marked with flagging, staking, or high visibility fencing to ensure construction will not further encroach into adjacent sensitive resources.

BIO-3: Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be incorporated into Project construction to minimize impacts on the environment including erosion and the release of pollutants (e.g. oils, fuels):
• Exposed soils and material sto ckpiles will be stabilized, through watering or other measures, to prevent the movement of dust at the Project site caused by wind and construction.
• Implementation of the Project shall require approval of a site-specific SWPPP or Water Pollution Control Program that will implement effective measures to protect water quality, which may include a hazardous spill prevention plan and additional erosion prevention techniques.
• All construction areas will be properly protected to prevent excess erosion, sedimentation, and water pollution.
• All vehicle and equi pment fueling/maintenance will be conducted outside of any surface waters and/or sensitive habitat. • Equipment used in and around jurisdictional waters must be in good working order and free of dripping or leaking contaminants. • Raw cement, concrete or concrete washings, asphalt, paint or other coating material, oil or other petroleum products, or any other substances that could be hazardous to aquatic life shall be prevented from contaminating the soil or entering jurisdictional waters. • All erosion control measures, and storm water control measures will be properly maintained until the site has returned to a pre-construction state.

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NES 46 April 2026
• All construction materials will be hauled off-site after completion of construction.

Compensatory Mitigation
The Project would result in approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impacts to perennial stream channel habitat (Arcade Creek and Arcade Creek tributary), and approximately

0.01 acres of permanent impacts. Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 will be implemented to avoid and minimize Project-related impacts to Arcade Creek and the Arcade Creek tributary.

Compensatory mitigation for permanent impacts to the stream channel will be required and will be determined in coordination with CDFW and the RWQCB during the permitting process. Compensatory mitigation measure BIO-4 will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this aquatic feature.

Cumulative Impacts
The proposed Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail–Mariposa Extension project is currently in the preliminary design phase and would construct an additional 0.5-mile segment of the trail along Arcade Creek. In combination with previously constructed trail segments and another planned segment which would connect Sylvan Road to Mariposa Avenue, the Project would contribute to minor cumulative effects on the creek corridor. Potential cumulative impacts include slight increases in impervious surfaces, temporary sediment runoff during construction, limited disturbance to riparian vegetation, and minor permanent impacts to the Arcade Creek mainstem associated with installation of a gabion basket wall along an actively eroding section of the channel. These impacts are not anticipated to be cumulatively considerable, as Arcade Creek is already substantially degraded due to long-term urban development. In addition, standard erosion control, sediment management and revegetation measures would be implemented to minimize temporary effects to the channel. The gabion basket wall would also stabilize the streambank and reduce ongoing erosion, further limiting the potential for adverse cumulative impacts. Overall, the Project’s temporary and minor permanent impacts are expected to have minimal effects on the Arcade Creek corridor and its ecological functions.

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Discussion of Ephemeral Tributary
One ephemeral tributary to Arcade Creek is present within the western portion of the BSA. The tributary has a larger main channel as well as a smaller sub-tributary. Water flow within this tributary only occurs in direct response to rainfall and stormwater runoff from adjacent commercial businesses and residential homes. The main tributary splits off Arcade Creek from the west, outside of the BSA and flows northeast, emptying into two ponded areas. The smaller sub-tributary splits off of the main tributary channel and flows northwest towards a detention basin outside of the BSA.

Survey Results
During the October 2025 biological survey, an aquatic resources delineation was conducted in accordance with technical methods outlined in the USACE A Field Guide to the Identification of the Ordinary High-Water Mark in the Arid West Region of the Western United States (Lichvar & McColley 2008) to determine the boundaries of the OHWM. During survey efforts, the ephemeral tributary was mapped in the field using an EOS Arrow 100 Receiver paired with ArcGIS Pro 3.6 software. This fieldwork was supplemented by desktop analysis of current and historical aerial imagery, as well as LiDAR data. The boundaries of the ephemeral tributary were mapped in the field in accordance with the following OHWM indicators: change in vegetation species and density, break in bank slope, and presence of a bed, bank and channel. The main larger tributary measures approximately 5 feet wide, and a sub-tributary measures approximately 2 feet wide. Water was present in the main tributary during survey efforts but was not flowing, and the sub-tributary was dry. Within the BSA, this habitat community comprises approximately 0.10 acres.

Project Impacts
No temporary or permanent impacts to the ephemeral tributary are anticipated as a result of the Project, as trail construction will be confined to the area east of these features. However, construction activities could result in potential indirect impacts, including sedimentation and the introduction of trash, oil, grease, or fuels associated with equipment and construction materials. Furthermore, an increase in impervious surface area may cause an increase in stormwater runoff within the vicinity of the new trail.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Although no direct impacts to the ephemeral tributary are anticipated, avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 will be implemented into the Project to reduce potential indirect impacts to the ephemeral tributary.

Compensatory Mitigation
With incorporation of measures BIO-1 through BIO-3, impacts to ephemeral tributary habitat will be avoided and minimized to the greatest extent feasible. No compensatory mitigation is required as no permanent impacts to the ephemeral tributary are anticipated.

ITEM 9
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Cumulative Impacts
The Project will have no temporary or permanent impacts to the ephemeral tributary.

The City does not have any future and/or reasonably foreseeable actions that would result in impacts to ephemeral tributary habitat at this location. The implementation of any project occurring within or near this habitat community would be considered separate from the proposed . There are no additional past, current, future and/or reasonably foreseeable actions that are threatening the ephemeral tributary.

Discussion of Riparian Woodland
Riparian woodland habitat is found in valleys and lower foothills, associated with floodplains and gentle topography. This community occurs in corridors along wet areas, usually with abrupt transitions to adjacent habitat types. Mature riparian woodland canopies are dominated by trees such as cottonwoods, sycamores, and oaks. There is typically a subcanopy of species such as white alder and Oregon ash. The usual understory is dominated by shrubs such as willows, wild grape, wild rose, and elderberry. An herbaceous layer may be found in openings in the dense understory, and plants such as sedges, rushes, miner’s lettuce, and poison-hemlock can be found here (Grenfell 1988). Riparian habitats are known to have high ecological importance, providing food, water, cover, and movement corridors for a number of wildlife species (CDFW 2025c).

Survey Results
Riparian woodland habitat borders Arcade Creek as it flows through the BSA. Dominant tree species observed within this vegetation community include valley oak, interior live oak, box elder, Oregon ash, Fremont cottonwood, and northern California black walnut.

The understory is comprised of Himalayan blackberry, periwinkle, Harding grass, and tall flat sedge. Within the BSA, this habitat community comprises approximately 8.84 acres.

Project Impacts
Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.18 acres of permanent impacts to riparian woodland habitat. An additional 0.81 acres of temporary impacts are anticipated due to construction access. To estimate the area needed for equipment access, a 20- foot temporary impact buffer was applied along the trail alignment. Tree removal within the riparian woodland habitat will be required; however, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified. Field observations during a site visit conducted on December 18, 2025, indicate that most trees within the riparian woodland are likely to be avoided, and impacts would be largely limited to the area around the proposed bridge crossing at the Arcade Creek tributary. Much of the mapped area in Figure 4 likely represents overstory canopy, and construction would occur within the understory, so major tree removal is not anticipated to be necessary. Some trees may only need to be trimmed to allow equipment access. The temporary and permanent impact estimates represent the maximum anticipated impacts, and final impacts will be further refined during the permitting process. Prior to construction, a tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal (Figure 5).

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Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 through BIO-3, and BIO-5 described below, will be implemented as part of the Project to reduce impacts on riparian woodland habitat.

BIO-5: Native vegetation removal will not exceed what is shown on the plans without prior approval from the Project biologist. If trees will be trimmed rather than removed, trimming must comply with ANSI A300 pruning standards and must not:
x leave branch stubs
x make unnecessary heading cuts
x cut off the branch collar (not make a flush cut)
x top or lion’s tail trees (stripping a branch from the inside leaving foliage just at the ends)
x remove more than 25 percent of the foliage of a single branch x remove more than 25 percent of th e total tree foliage in a single year x damage other parts of the tree during pruning
x use wound paint
x climb the tree with climbing spikes
BIO-6: Following the completion of construction, all temporary effects to riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be recontoured and re-seeded at a 1:1 ratio, to allow for the habitat to return to its previous function. Tree removal will follow final plans and specifications, and any deviation must be approved by a Project biologist. All temporarily disturbed areas will be seeded with a Project biologist-approved native seed mix.

Compensatory Mitigation
The Project would result in approximately 0.18 acres of permanent impacts to riparian woodland and temporary impacts will consist of approximately 0.81 acres. Mitigation will be required for all trees removed with a diameter at breast height (DBH) greater than 4 inches. Final mitigation requirements will be determined in coordination with CDFW during the acquisition of the 1602 Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement and City of Citrus Heights Tree Preservation and Protection Regulations.

Compensatory mitigation measures BIO-6 and BIO-4, listed in the perennial stream channel section, will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this vegetation community.

Any trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for through replanting or other methods in coordination with CDFW and the City of Citrus Heights.

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Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary and permanent impacts to riparian woodland habitat from trail construction. In combination with previously constructed Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail segments and other planned segments in the area, the Project would contribute to cumulative impacts on the riparian woodland corridor along Arcade Creek. Potential impacts include the removal or trimming of trees and temporary disturbance to understory vegetation. However, standard erosion control, revegetation, and tree protection measures will be implemented, so these cumulative impacts are expected to be minor.

Discussion of Oak Woodland
Oak woodland is a widely distributed upland habitat in California and is characterized by a multilayered structure composed of a dominant overstory of oak species with an understory of grasses, forbs, and scattered shrubs. Oak woodland typically occurs on well-drained soils in foothill and valley settings, often along slopes, ridgelines, and mixed woodland–grassland ecotones. Tree associates in the Central Valley include California sycamore, Northern California black walnut, interior live oak, boxelder, and blue oak. Oak woodland supports high wildlife diversity due to its structural complexity and acorn production. The habitat provides foraging, nesting, and cover for numerous birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates (Mayer & Laudenslayer 1988). Oak woodlands are considered a natural community of special concern as they provide habitat for nesting birds and raptors, including the Swainson’s hawk and white-tailed kite as well as cover and foraging habitat for the song sparrow (“Modesto” population). In addition, native oaks measuring 6 inches DBH or more in diameter are protected under the City of Citrus Heights Tree Preservation and Protection Regulations.

Survey Results
The BSA includes a mature oak woodland habitat that occupies the upland areas of the site. This community is dominated by native oak tree species such as valley oak, interior live oak, and blue oak. The canopy is moderately dense, providing partial shade and contributing to a well-developed litter layer of decomposing oak leaves and twigs. The understory consists primarily of native and non-native grasses and forbs, including wild oat, Italian rye grass, and English plantain. Seasonal herbaceous growth is most abundant in spring, while the summer understory tends to dry and thin considerably.

Project Impacts
Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.02 acres of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat. An additional 0.17 acres of temporary impacts are anticipated due to construction access. To estimate the area needed for equipment access, a 20-foot temporary impact buffer was applied along the trail alignment. Tree removal within the oak woodland habitat will be required; however, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified. Field observations during the site visit conducted on December ITEM 9
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18, 2025, indicate that most trees within the oak woodland are likely to be avoided, and impacts would be largely limited to the area around the proposed bridge crossing at the Arcade Creek tributary. Much of the mapped area in Figure 4 likely represents overstory canopy, and construction would occur within the understory, so major tree removal is not anticipated to be necessary. Some trees may only need to be trimmed to allow equipment access. The temporary and permanent impact estimates represent the maximum anticipated impacts, and final impacts will be further refined during the permitting process. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal (Figure 5).

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1, BIO-3 and BIO-5 will be implemented as part of the Project to reduce impacts on oak woodland habitat.

Compensatory Mitigation
The compensatory mitigation measure BIO-6 will be implemented to offset permanent impacts to this habitat community. Final mitigation requirements will be determined in coordination with the City of Citrus Heights Tree Preservation and Protection Regulations.

Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary and permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat from trail construction. In combination with previously constructed Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail segments and other planned segments in the area, the Project would contribute to cumulative impacts on the oak woodland habitat along Arcade Creek. Potential impacts include the removal or trimming of trees and temporary disturbance to understory vegetation. However, standard erosion control, revegetation, and tree protection measures will be implemented, so these cumulative impacts are expected to be minor.

Special Status Plant Species
The plants listed in Table 2 are considered to be of special concern based on (1) federal, state, or local laws regulating their development; (2) limited distributions; and/or (3) the presence of habitat required by the special status plants occurring on site. Prior to field surveys, a list of regional special status plant species with potential to occur within the Project vicinity was compiled from database searches. The potential for each species to occur within the BSA was determined by analyzing the habitat requirements of each species and comparing the habitat requirements to available habitat within the BSA. After a careful comparison between habitat requirements and the habitat available within the BSA, one special status plant species was found to have low potential to occur within the BSA: Sanford’s arrowhead.

Discussion of Sanford’s Arrowhead
Sanford’s arrowhead is listed under CNPS as a 1B.2, meaning it is rare throughout its range and is moderately threatened in California. Sanford’s arrowhead is a perennial rhizomatous herb found in sluggish waterways, swamps, freshwater marshes, ponds, ITEM 9
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ditches, and margins of slow flowing streams or sloughs up to 2,132 feet elevation. The blooming season for the species occurs from May–October. The species was once common in irrigation ditches in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys.

Channelization of natural waterways, changes in seasonal agricultural water use, and water conservation have eliminated much of its previous habitat. Sanford’s arrowhead spreads by underground rhizomes and is found preferentially in clay soils.

Survey Results
No Sanford’s arrowhead individuals were observed within the BSA during the October 2025 biological survey. However, the BSA contains suitable stream channel and water quality/detention basin habitat that could support individuals of this species. There are 15 documented CNDDB occurrences of the species within 10 miles of the BSA, with the nearest approximately 2.2 miles northeast of the BSA within Sunrise Creek (1994).

Based on the suitable habitat and nearby occurrences, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Project Impacts
Approximately 0.10 acres of temporary impacts and approximately 0.01 acres of permanent impacts to suitable aquatic habitat (Arcade Creek) are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-7 will be implemented to ensure that no Sanford’s arrowhead individuals are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
In addition to avoidance and minimization measure BIO-1, the following measure will be incorporated into the Project to avoid and minimize potential Project-related impacts to the species:

BIO-7: A focused rare plant survey will be conducted within the Project area prior to the start of construction. If rare plants are discovered during pre-construction surveys but can be reasonably avoided, an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) fence will be installed to protect the specimens in place.

Compensatory Mitigation
No compensatory mitigation for Sanford’s arrowhead is proposed, as no direct impacts to the species, or adverse effects to the population, are expected as a result of the proposed Project, with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure BIO-7.

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Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary impacts to suitable Sanford’s arrowhead habitat due to trail construction. In combination with previously constructed and planned Arcade- Cripple Creek Trail segments in the area, the Project will contribute to minor cumulative impacts on suitable habitat for the species. No permanent impacts to suitable aquatic habitat are anticipated. The Project could also contribute to cumulative impacts on Sanford’s arrowhead individuals if any are present within the work area(s) and are disturbed by construction. However, such impacts are unlikely with implementation of Measure BIO-7, which requires pre-construction surveys and protection of individuals using high-visibility fencing. If Sanford’s arrowhead individuals are present within the Project area and cannot be fully avoided, the Project biologist will relocate individuals and/or collect seeds to ensure the continued existence of the local population. Based on these measures, cumulative impacts on Sanford’s arrowhead individuals are anticipated to be minor.

Special Status Animal Species
Animals are considered to be of special concern based on (1) federal, state, or local laws regulating their development; (2) limited distributions; and/or (3) the habitat requirements of special status animals occurring on site. Prior to field surveys, a list of regional special status animal species with potential to occur within the Project vicinity was compiled from database searches. The potential for each species to occur within the BSA was determined by analyzing the habitat requirements of each species and comparing the habitat requirements to available habitat within the BSA. After a careful comparison between habitat requirements and the habitat available within the BSA, the following species were determined to have potential to occur within the BSA: song sparrow (“Modesto” population), Swainson’s hawk, white-tailed kite, VELB and NWPT.

Discussion of Song Sparrow (“Modesto” Population)
The song sparrow (“Modesto” Population) is not a state of federally listed species but is a CDFW species of special concern (SSC). The ecological requirements of the species are largely undescribed, but the species is known to have an affinity for emergent freshwater marshes dominated by tules and cattails (Grinnell & Miller 1944). Marshall (1948) described the primary habitat requirements of several subspecies of song sparrow in California as being moderately dense vegetation to supply cover for nest sites, a source of standing or running water, semi-open canopies to allow light, and exposed ground or leaf litter for foraging. Nest sites are usually hidden in grasses or weeds, sometimes placed on the ground and occasionally as high as 15 feet and are often near water. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation are the primary threats to the species. Nesting season for the species usually begins in April, and most nesters in California are nonmigratory, with other migrants coming from the north (Shuford & Gardali 2008).

Survey Results
No individuals of this species were observed during the October 2025 biological survey.

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including the easterly water quality/detention basin, which supports tules and cattails, as well as areas of low, dense vegetation such as Himalayan blackberry and periwinkle within the riparian woodland habitat. The oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats also provide potential nesting cover and include open grassland understory with leaf litter suitable for foraging. Arcade Creek and the water quality/detention basins provide a source of standing water, making the area suitable for the song sparrow. There is one CNDDB occurrence within 10 miles of the BSA, located approximately 9.2 miles southwest in which a specimen was collected (1990). The CNDDB occurrence notes indicate that development has replaced much of the wetlands and other suitable habitat in the area, so it is unlikely that this species is still present there. Based on the potentially suitable habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Project Impacts
Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project. Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acres of permanent impacts to riparian woodland habitat, with approximately 0.89 acres of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acres of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acres of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting song sparrows are present within the Project area prior to construction.

BIO-8: Prior to vegetation removal or initial ground disturbance during the nesting bird season (February 1–September 30) a pre-construction nesting bird survey must be conducted by a Project Biologist prior to the start of work. The nesting bird survey must include the Project area plus a 300-foot buffer. Within 1 week of the nesting bird survey, all vegetated areas that are designated for removal must be cleared by the contractor or a supplemental nesting bird survey is required.

An initial 100-foot no-disturbance buffer will be established around any active nest of migratory birds and a minimum 300-foot no-disturbance buffer will be established around any nesting raptor species. The contractor must immediately stop work in the buffer area until the appropriate buffer is established and is prohibited from conducting work that could disturb the birds ITEM 9
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(as determined by the Project Biologist and in coordination with wildlife agencies) in the buffer area until a Project Biologist determines the young have fledged. A reduced no-work buffer can be established if determined appropriate by the Project Biologist, and will consider various factors including species of bird, location of nest, stage of nest, existing environment, and type of active work.

Compensatory Mitigation
No compensatory mitigation for the song sparrow is proposed, as no direct impacts to the species are expected as a result of the proposed Project with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8.

Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary and permanent impacts to suitable song sparrow nesting and foraging habitat due to trail construction. In combination with previously constructed and planned Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail segments, the Project will contribute to minor cumulative impacts on the species’ suitable habitat in riparian woodland and oak woodland areas adjacent to the trail. The Project could also contribute to cumulative impacts on song sparrow individuals if any are present within the work area and are temporarily disturbed by construction. However, such impacts are unlikely with implementation of measure BIO-8, which requires pre-construction surveys and protection of nesting individuals through establishment of a no-work buffer around active nests. Based on this measure, cumulative impacts on song sparrow individuals are anticipated to be minor.

Discussion of Swainson’s Hawk
Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is a raptor species listed as threatened under CESA. This species migrates annually from wintering areas in South America to breeding locations in northwestern Canada, the western U.S., and Mexico. In California, Swainson’s hawk nest throughout the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley in large trees in riparian habitats and in isolated trees in or adjacent to agricultural fields. The breeding season extends from late March through late August, with peak activity from late May through July (England et al. 1997). Swainson’s hawks forage in large, open agricultural habitats, including alfalfa and hay fields. The breeding population in California has declined by an estimated 91% since 1900; this decline is attributed to the loss of riparian nesting habitats and the conversion of native grassland and woodland habitats into agriculture and urban development (CDFG 1994).

Survey Results
No individuals of this species were observed during the October 2025 biological survey.

The BSA contains suitable nesting habitat for Swainson’s hawk within the riparian woodland and oak woodland areas, which include tall, mature oak trees capable of supporting nests. However, the BSA is surrounded by urban development and lacks the open, undeveloped areas typically required for foraging. Although some annual grassland habitat occurs within the BSA, it does not provide the extensive, open ITEM 9
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foraging areas preferred by the species. The nearest suitable foraging habitat is located approximately 0.5 miles north of the proposed trail alignment within an open grassland area, north of Auburn Boulevard. The nearest documented CNDDB occurrence is located approximately 4.8 miles south of the BSA in which a nest was observed in a eucalyptus tree near Ancil Hoffman Park (2004). There is also a nearby iNaturalist occurrence of the species located approximately 2.2 miles southwest of the BSA along Wendal Lane, recorded in August 2025. Based on the potentially suitable nesting habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Project Impacts
Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project. Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acres of permanent impacts to riparian woodland habitat, with approximately 0.89 acres of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acres of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acres of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. All trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for in coordination with CDFW and the City. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting Swainson’s hawks are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 and BIO-9 will be incorporated into the Project to avoid and minimize potential Project-related impacts to the species.

BIO-9: During the spring/summer season prior to construction the Project biologist must conduct pre-construction Swainson’s hawk protocol-level surveys within the Project area plus a 0.25-mile buffer in accordance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s guide for Swainson’s Hawk Technical Advisory Committee. Pre-construction surveys will determine if active nests are present within the Project area or within 0.25 mile of Project activities. If an active nest is discovered within the survey area the Project biologist will determine the appropriate avoidance strategies (e.g., monitoring, no-work buffers, work windows, temporary sound/noise barriers, etc.) to avoid take of the nest and will coordinate with CDFW as needed.

Compensatory Mitigation
No compensatory mitigation for the Swainson’s hawk is proposed, as no direct impacts to the species are expected as a result of the proposed Project with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure BIO-9.

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Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary and permanent impacts to suitable Swainson’s hawk nesting habitat due to trail construction. In combination with previously constructed and planned Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail segments, the Project will contribute to minor cumulative impacts on the species’ suitable nesting habitat in riparian woodland and oak woodland areas adjacent to the trail. The Project could also contribute to cumulative impacts on Swainson’s hawk individuals if any are present within the work area and are temporarily disturbed by construction. However, such impacts are unlikely with implementation of measure BIO-9, which requires protocol-level pre-construction surveys and protection of nesting individuals through establishment of appropriate avoidance strategies including no-work buffers and/or biological monitoring. Based on this measure, cumulative impacts on Swainson’s hawk individuals are anticipated to be minor.

Discussion of White-tailed Kite
The white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is not listed as threatened or endangered at the state or federal level but is a fully protected species under CFG Code Section 3511. The white-tailed kite is a year-round resident of California and occurs in coastal and valley lowlands, most often in association with agricultural areas. The white-tailed kite forages in undisturbed, open grasslands, meadows, farmlands and emergent wetlands and seldom hunt more than 0.5 miles from nest while breeding. Breeding occurs from February to October, preferably in isolated, dense-topped trees close to open grasslands, meadows or marsh foraging sites (Zeiner et al. 1988–1990).

Survey Results
No individuals of this species were observed during the October 2025 biological survey.

The BSA contains suitable nesting habitat for white-tailed kite within the riparian woodland and oak woodland areas, which include tall, mature oak trees capable of supporting nests. However, the BSA is surrounded by urban development and lacks the open, undeveloped areas typically required for foraging including grasslands, meadows, farmlands and emergent wetlands. Although some annual grassland habitat occurs within the BSA, it does not provide the extensive, open foraging areas preferred by the species. The nearest suitable foraging habitat is located approximately 0.5 miles north of the proposed trail alignment within an open grassland area, north of Auburn Boulevard. The nearest CNDDB occurrence is located approximately 3.5 miles northeast of the BSA at Woodbridge Park in Orangevale in which a pair nested in a large tree south of the pond (1992). There is also a nearby eBird occurrence within the Stock Ranch Nature Preserve, southeast of the BSA recorded in 2012. Based on the potentially suitable nesting habitat present onsite, this species has a low potential to occur within the BSA.

Project Impacts
Permanent and temporary impacts to riparian woodland habitat and oak woodland habitat are anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed Project. Paving of the trail will result in approximately 0.20 acres of permanent impacts to riparian woodland ITEM 9
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habitat, with approximately 0.89 acres of temporary impacts anticipated due to construction access. Paving of the trail will also result in approximately 0.02 acres of permanent impacts to oak woodland habitat, and approximately 0.17 acres of temporary impacts due to construction access. In addition, tree removal within the oak woodland and riparian woodland habitats will be required. However, the specific trees to be removed have not yet been identified, and major tree removal is not anticipated. A tree survey will be conducted within the BSA to document and mark all trees proposed for removal. All trees removed from the riparian woodland and oak woodland habitat will be appropriately mitigated for in coordination with CDFW and the City. To avoid direct impacts to this species during construction, avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8 will be implemented to ensure that no nesting white-tailed kites are present within the Project area prior to construction.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Avoidance and minimization measures BIO-1 and BIO-8 will be incorporated into the Project to avoid and minimize potential Project-related impacts to the white-tailed kite.

Compensatory Mitigation
No compensatory mitigation for the white-tailed kite is proposed, as no direct impacts to the species are expected as a result of the proposed Project with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure BIO-8.

Cumulative Impacts
The Project will result in temporary and permanent impacts to suitable white-tailed kite nesting habitat due to trail construction. In combination with previously constructed and planned Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail segments, the Project will contribute to minor cumulative impacts on the species’ suitable nesting habitat in riparian woodland and oak woodland areas adjacent to the trail. The Project could also contribute to cumulative impacts on white-tailed individuals if any are present within the work area and are temporarily disturbed by construction. However, such impacts are unlikely with implementation of measure BIO-8, which requires pre-construction surveys and protection of nesting individuals through establishment of a no-work buffer around active nests. Based on this measure, cumulative impacts on white-tailed kite individuals are anticipated to be minor.

Discussion of Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
VELB is a federal listed threatened species. Critical habitat for the species was designated by the USFWS on August 8, 1980 (45 Federal Register [FR] 52803).

Elderberry shrubs are obligate hosts for VELB larvae. Elderberry shrubs are often associated with species common to the riparian forests and adjacent uplands in the Central Valley and foothills the elderberry inhabits, such as, cottonwood (Populus spp.), willow, ash (Fraxinus spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), and walnut (Juglans spp.) (Barr 1991).

The VELB’s range has been reduced and greatly fragmented due to a loss of elderberry inhabited communities, most especially riparian habitat loss. Habitat loss is derived from agricultural development, urbanization, levee maintenance, and pesticide drift where ITEM 9
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aerial application or fogging of crops occurs near riparian habitats (USFWS 1984 and Barr 1991).

Adult VELB feed on elderberry foliage and are present from March through early June.

During this time, the adults mate within the canopy and females lay their eggs, either singularly or in small clusters, in living elderberry bark crevices or at the junction of stem/trunk or leaf petiole/stem (Barr 1991). After eggs hatch, the first instar larvae burrow into the host elderberry stems to feed on pith for one to two years. As the larvae become ready to pupate, it chews outward from the center of the stem through the bark.

After the larvae plugs the newly constructed emergent hole with shavings, it returns to the pupal chamber to metamorphose and will emerge in mid-March through June as adults. Elderberry stems with emergence holes indicate current and/or previous VELB presence. VELB utilize stems greater than 1-inch diameter and produce circular to oval emergent holes 7–10 millimeters in diameter with the majority occurring 4 feet or less above the ground (Barr 1991).

Survey Results
In accordance with the USFWS Framework for Assessing Impacts to the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle, the Project area was buffered by 50 meters (≈ 165 feet) to identify elderberry shrubs occurring within the BSA (USFWS 2017). During survey efforts, two elderberry clusters, both with stem diameters over one inch were observed within the riparian woodland habitat within the BSA (Figure 4). Exit holes were observed on multiple stems within one of the two clusters, located on the southern bank of Arcade Creek (Appendix E). . The elderberry cluster without exit holes is approximately 72 feet south of the proposed trail alignment while the cluster with exit holes is approximately 95 feet south of the proposed trail alignment. The presence of exit holes indicates current or historic occupation by VELB, and therefore they have high potential to occur within the BSA.

Project Impacts
No direct or indirect impacts to the elderberry shrubs are anticipated as a result of trail construction. The two elderberry shrubs within the BSA may be located within the USFWS framework guidance buffer; however, they are located across Arcade Creek in an area that is unrelated to and far removed from Project activities. This creates a substantial distance and buffer between the Project and the shrub Two elderberry clusters were identified within the BSA, both of which are located within the USFWS framework guidance buffer. One of the clusters is located across Arcade Creek in an area that is unrelated to and physically separated from Project activities. The intervening creek channel provides substantial distance and buffer between the Project and this cluster such that it would not be subject to stressors such as noise, vibration, exhaust, or dust. The second elderberry cluster, while also located within the USFWS buffer, is situated outside the Project impact area and is not anticipated to be affected by Project activities.

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and operation of equipment would be minimal within the 165-foot area surrounding the shrub and is not expected to result in any increases of stressors beyond ambient environmental baseline. Furthermore, construction of the new pedestrian crossing would occur well beyond that distance. Therefore, the Project would have no effect to VELB.

Avoidance and Minimization Efforts
Because effects to VELB are not anticipated, no avoidance or minimization measures are proposed.

Compensatory Mitigation
No compensatory mitigation for VELB is proposed, as no effects to the species or its associated habitat are expected as a result of the proposed Project.

Cumulative Impacts
Because no effects or impacts to VELB are anticipated, the Project is not expected to contribute to cumulative impacts on the species.

Discussion of Northwestern Pond Turtle
The NWPT is listed as proposed threatened under FESA and is considered a SSC by CDFW. This species is prevalent throughout California west of the Sierra-Cascade crest and certain desert regions. Individuals are subject to desiccation in hot or dry conditions, meaning this species is found around permanent and near-permanent water sources such as ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. Individuals are omnivorous and feed on aquatic plants as well as invertebrates, frogs, and fishes. Predators include certain fishes, garter snakes, wading birds, and some mammals, and the NWPT retreats from basking sites to underwater refuges at the sign of danger. This species is known to hibernate underwater beneath a muddy bottom in colder climates and reproduce from March–August. Nests are generally found in flat areas with low vegetation and dry, hard soil (Zeiner et al. 1988– 1990).

Survey Results
Arcade Creek and the eastern water quality/detention basin within the BSA provide suitable aquatic habitat for the NWPT due to the presence of slow-moving or standing water and available basking sites, including logs, rocks, muddy banks, and emergent vegetation. There is also some adjacent annual grassland habitat that may provide suitable upland nesting habitat for the species. According to the City of Sacramento's "Existing Conditions and Assessment Report and Stream Corridor Management Plan for the Arcade Creek Watershed”, NWPTs have been observed in the Arcade Creek stream corridor during spring and summer 2007 field surveys (Jones & Stokes 2007).

Citrus Heights City Council MeetingsJuly 8, 2026

Citrus Heights City Council Meetings
July 8, 2026