Agenda packet — Cotati City Council, September 10, 2024 (part 2 of 7)

Opinion
In our opinion, the system of quality control for the accounting and auditing practice of Chavan & Associates, LLP in effect for the year ended December 31, 2019, has been suitably designed and complied with to provide the firm with reasonable assurance of performing and reporting in conformity with applicable professional standards in all material respects. Firms can receive a rating of pass, pass with deficiency(ies) or fail. Chavan & Associates, LLP has received a peer review rating of pass.

Santa Ana, California
Attachment A
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: APPROVAL OF 2024 COTATI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MUSIC OKTOBERFEST EVENT IN LA PLAZA PARK
Date: September 10, 2024
Written by: Ashley Wilson, Recreation Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2024 Cotati Chamber of Commerce Oktoberfest event.

Background
The Cotati Chamber of Commerce has sponsored many community events and the City has historically granted the Chamber permission to use City facilities, namely La Plaza Park, City Hall parking lot, and various streets and parking spaces. For 2024, the Cotati Chamber of Commerce is proposing to bring back the Annual Cotati Oktoberfest.

Analysis/Discussion
Below is a summary of the event. The logistics, operation and participants are anticipated to be very similar to previous years’ events. Requests include the following: 1) exclusive use of La Plaza Park; 2) food truck and vendor sales of food and beverages; 3) live, amplified entertainment; 4) alcoholic beverage sales; 5) street closures of La Plaza between West Sierra Ave and Old Redwood Highway; and 6) dogs in the park.

Event Attendance Dates/Times (including set-up)
Oktoberfest 1000 Saturday, October 12th
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Oktoberfest
This event will feature amplified live music, food, and beverages in La Plaza Park beginning at 144 of 1574
noon and going until 6:00 PM. The Chamber is requesting exclusive use of the park and bandstand from 8:00 AM through 8:00 PM to allow for set-up, breakdown, and clean-up. The event at La Plaza Park will be free of charge. Entertainment will include live bands, dancing, and dachshund races. Alcoholic beverages and food will be sold in association with the festival.

The Chamber has reviewed the City’s insurance requirements and has indicated that they have adequate insurance. A Condition of Approval has been included which requires proof of insurance be supplied to the City before each event.

A Condition of Approval has been included which requires a California Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control approved temporary permit to allow for the sale of alcohol to be supplied to the City before the events.

Financial Considerations
The Chamber has requested fee waivers and City support of staff time. This event is widely marketed by the Chamber and increases the number of visitors to the City. The increased visitation is evidenced not only at the events, but at local businesses as well. The event provides increased opportunities to promote economic development and increased sales tax revenue.

Financial considerations for the City would be a park rental fee waiver (per the license agreement with the Chamber of Commerce) from the normal $427 in park use permit fees (Park Rental Fee + Application Fee).

Oktoberfest:

Park rental fee*: $ 374
Application fee*: $ 53
Street closure fee: $ 749
Staff Time(Banner) $ 372
Restroom cleaning fee: $ 75
Total = $1,623
Less Waived Fees*= ($ 427)
Adjusted Total = $ 1,196
*Waived with Chamber License Agreement
Given that the City is a partner in these events, staff recommend a City Council contribution for these events to cover the remaining fees and staff time. Therefore, the additional cost to the City in the form of waived fees and staff time is estimated to be $1,196, which the City’s General Fund will provide if approved.

The City would still collect the $500 refundable deposit, which would be returned after the event, if the park is left in good condition.
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Environmental Issues
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
2024 COTATI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OKTOBERFEST IN LA PLAZA PARK WHEREAS, the Cotati Chamber of Commerce submitted an application to the City for the Cotati Oktoberfest, 2024; and
WHEREAS, it will be necessary to conform to certain conditions as described in “Exhibit A,” attached hereto, to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this event is part of a comprehensive economic development strategy by the Chamber of Commerce in that it increases visitation to the City, promotes the Cotati community and results in increased sales tax revenues; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati will not be jeopardized by the approval of this event; and WHEREAS, the application for this event is attached as Exhibit B; and WHEREAS, in accordance with the City’s license agreement (License Agreement) with the Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber is entitled to rent La Plaza Park two times per year without a rental fee; and
WHEREAS, because the City is a partner in these events, it is recommended that the City fund the remaining park fees, as well as the staff time to facilitate these events (estimated at $372); and
WHEREAS, the action of approving an Oktoberfest event does not constitute a project as defined by California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15378; therefore, no further environmental review is required.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Cotati as follows:

Section 1. Findings. The above recitals are declared to be true and correct and are incorporated herein as findings of the City Council.

Section 2. Approval of Conditions. The City Council hereby approves the conditions of approval for this event, attached as Exhibit A.

Section 3. Approval of Fee Waivers for Cotati Chamber of Commerce. The fee waiver for the park permit has been previously waived in accordance with the License Agreement. For this event, the estimated cost of City staff time, street closure, and restroom cleaning requires an additional City contribution from the City's General Fund of $1,196, as described in the accompanying Staff Report, is hereby approved to facilitate these events.

Section 4. Effective Date of this Resolution. This Resolution shall become effective immediately.
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Section 5. Severability. Each portion of this resolution is severable. Should any portion of this resolution be adjudged to be invalid and unenforceable by a body of competent jurisdiction, then the remaining resolution portions shall be and continue in full force and effect, except as to those resolution portions that have been adjudged invalid. The City Council of the City of Cotati hereby declares that it would have adopted this resolution and each section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase and other portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that one or more section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase or other portion may be held invalid or unconstitutional.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on September 10, 2024, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT “A”

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
COTATI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OKTOBERFEST 2024

1. Applicant shall provide the City with proof of insurance for event and vendors, as required, to the satisfaction of the City, no less than 30 days prior to event.

2. Applicant shall ensure the public facilities (park, parking spaces and streets) are cleaned completely and returned to pre-event condition within 24 hours of event.

3. Applicant shall arrange for trash, recycling, and compost bins and porta-potties to be delivered and collected.

4. Applicant shall obtain a Daily License from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The City authorizes the sale and consumption of beer and wine and margaritas only; a copy of the license, as well as evidence of responsible beverage service training, shall be provided to the City prior to the event date.

5. Event shall be carried out as described in the written descriptions submitted by the applicant, approved by the City Council, and in compliance with these Conditions of Approval.

6. The applicant shall obtain the required permits and follow all regulations from the Sonoma County Environmental Health Department, and shall ensure each food vendor complies with Health Department requirements.

7. The applicant shall ensure that all vendors follow Cotati Municipal Code 8.20.030 (Prohibited food service ware and products), which bans the selling or serving of food ware that contains polystyrene foam or PFAS.

8. Applicant shall notify all neighboring businesses and residents of the event and street closures, no later than 14 days prior to the event.

9. The applicant shall contact the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District and comply with any permit requirements of the District.

10. The organizer shall prominently feature the City of Cotati as an event sponsor on all advertising and marketing materials.

11. Applicant is granted exclusive use of La Plaza Park, including public parking spaces adjacent to the Park for the event on Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 8:00 am – 8:00 pm for the event to be held from noon to 6:00 pm. This approval includes amplified live entertainment.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: AWARD OF THE CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT AND

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTIONS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE

SIDEWALK GAP CLOSURE PROJECT
Date: September 24, 2024
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution awarding the Sidewalk Gap Closure Project (Project) to Zara Construction, approving a Construction Management and Inspection Professional Services Agreement with Green Valley Consulting Engineers, and authorizing the City Manager to execute the agreement and any needed change orders or amendments to supporting professional agreements up to the authorized Project amount.

Background
The City has five projects on the Sonoma County Transportation Authority’s Cycle 1 Funding Program. The Funding Program capitalizes on funding opportunities by best matching agency projects with available funding sources. One of the funding programs is Go Sonoma, a Countywide sales tax to fund roadway improvements. Go Sonoma provides 12 percent of the sales tax revenue for Build Bikeways and Pathways projects. The City’s Sidewalk Gap Closure Project, one of the City’s five projects in the Cycle 1 Funding Program, is included in the first year (FY24/25) of the Build Better Bikeways and Pathways Program to receive $500,000.

Analysis/Discussion
The Project is to construct sidewalks to close gaps at five locations in the City. On December 12, 2023, the City approved a design contract for the Project with Bellicci and Associates. During design, City Staff and the consultants held two public workshops to receive input from the public on the concept design at the original ten locations. Input from the workshops, cost considerations, and environmental review reduced the number of sections from ten to five. 152 of 1574
Clifford and West Cotati Avenue (nearest Hwy 101) were removed after concerns were expressed by the residents, Valparaiso Avenue was removed due to its high cost, and the Section along West Sierra Avenue near Water Road was removed due to the need for additional environmental review because of its proximity to Cotati Creek.

The design was completed and the project advertised for bidding and bids were opened on August 27, 2024. Two bids were received: one from Zara Construction for $687,510 and the other from Ghilotti Bros, Incorporated for $1,458,988. The Engineer’s Estimate is $700,700. To stay within the Project’s approved budget, Staff decided to remove Site 1 (West Cotati Avenue) because the cost of that segment aligned with the needed cost reduction. Additionally, the W School Street segment is a high priority expressed by the community because of it’s linking the School Street tunnel with existing pathways extending to the Thomas Page Academy. The Project’s schedule after award is to process the contract documents by early October and mobilize for construction by mid to late October. The contractor has 40 working days to complete the work, exclusive of rain delay days. Weather permitting, the project could be complete by early January.

In August of this year, in response to a Request for Qualifications, Engineering Staff received Qualifications for Professional Services including Construction Management and Inspection.

After review of the proposals, Staff determined Green Valley Consulting Engineers to be the most qualified to provide Construction Management and Inspection services for the Project. Staff requested, and Green Valley Consulting Engineers provided, a proposal for Construction Management and Inspection Services for the Project. City Staff reviewed the proposal, finds it to be fair and reasonable and recommends it for approval.

Financial Considerations
The City’s adopted Fiscal Year 24/25 Budget includes the Sidewalk Gap Closure Project with a FY24/25 budget of $735,000, which consists of the $500,000 Go Sonoma funds and $235,000 of the City’s General Fund. Additionally, there is carryover contract with Bellecci and Associates of $34,018 for the tasks to complete engineering support during construction. The Construction contract and Construction Management and Inspection agreement total $621,475. This leaves $79,507, for contingency.

Environmental Issues
The potential impacts of the proposed project were analyzed and addressed to a less-thansignificant level in the Cotati General Plan Update EIR (SCH# 2013082037), which was certified by the Cotati City Council on March 24, 2015, and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15183 allows a streamlined environmental review process for projects that are consistent with the anticipated circulation improvements established by existing land use regulation, adopted Public Works Development Standards and General Plan policies for which an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified. 153 of 1574
RESOLUTION NO. (XX)

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI AWARDING

THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE SIDEWALK GAP CLOSURE

PROJECT TO ZARA CONSTRUCTION, APPROVING A CONSTRUCTION

MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

WITH GREEN VALLEY CONSULTING ENGINEERS, AND AUTHORIZING THE

CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SAID AGREEMENTS AND ANY NEEDED

CHANGE ORDERS TO THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT OR AMENDMENTS

TO SUPPORTING PROFESSIONAL AGREEMENTS UP TO THE AUTHORIZED

PROJECT AMOUNT
WHEREAS, the City has five projects on the Sonoma County Transportation Authority’s Cycle 1 Funding Program, and the Funding Program capitalizes on funding opportunities by best matching agency projects with available funding sources; and WHEREAS, one of the funding programs is Go Sonoma, a County-wide sales tax to fund roadway improvements, and Go Sonoma provides twelve percent of the sales tax revenue for Build Bikeways and Pathways projects; and
WHEREAS, the City’s Sidewalk Gap Closure Project, one of the City’s five projects in the Cycle 1 Funding Program, is included in the first year (FY24/25) of the Build Better Bikeways and Pathways Program to receive $500,000; and
WHEREAS, the Project is to construct sidewalks to close gaps at five locations in the City, and, on December 12, 2023, the City approved a design contract for the Project with Bellecci and Associates; and
WHEREAS, during design, City Staff and the consultants held two public workshops to receive input from the public on the concept design at the original ten locations, and input from the workshops, cost considerations, and environmental review reduced the number of sections from ten to five; and
WHEREAS, Clifford and West Cotati Avenue (nearest Hwy 101) were removed after concerns were expressed by the residents, Valparaiso Avenue was removed due to its high cost, and the Section along West Sierra Avenue near Water Road was remove due to the need for additional environmental review because of its proximity to Cotati Creek; and WHEREAS, the design was completed and the project advertised for bidding and bids were opened on August 27, 2024, and two bids were received: one from Zara Construction for $687,510, and the other from Ghilotti Bros, Incorporated for $1,458,988, and the Engineer’s Estimate is $700,700; and
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WHEREAS, to stay within the Project’s approved budget, Staff decided to remove Site 1 (West Cotati Avenue) because the cost of that segment aligned with the needed cost reduction, additionally, the W School Street segment is a high priority expressed by the community because of its linking the School Street tunnel with existing pathways extending to the Thomas Page Academy; and
WHEREAS, the Projects schedule, subsequent to award, is to process the contract documents by mid-September and mobilize for construction by early October, and, the contractor has 40 working days to complete the work, exclusive of rain delay days, and, weather permitting, the project could be complete by early December; and
WHEREAS, in August of this year, in response to a Request for Qualifications, Engineering Staff received Qualifications for Professional Services including Construction Management, and after review of the proposals, Staff determined Green Valley Consulting Engineers to be the most qualified to provide Construction Management services for the Project; and WHEREAS, Staff requested, and Green Valley Consulting Engineers provided, a proposal for Construction Management and Inspection Services for the Project. City Staff reviewed the proposal and finds it to be fair and reasonable and recommends it for approval; and WHEREAS, the City’s adopted Fiscal Year 24/25 Budget includes the Sidewalk Gap Closure Project with a FY24/25 budget of $735,000, which consists of the $500,000, Go Sonoma funds and $235,000, of the City’s General Fund; and
WHEREAS, the Construction contract, Construction Management and Inspection agreement, Engineering Support during Construction and contingency total $621,475 plus carryover contract with Bellecci and Associates for $34,018 pertaining to tasks to complete engineering support during construction, for a total estimated budget of $655,493, which leaves $79,507 or approximately 10% for contingency, and a total project authorized at budget for $735,000; and WHEREAS, the prior authorized funds for the design and engineering assistance during construction is in addition to this amount and that contract is within budget with no anticipated additional funds being needed; and
WHEREAS, the potential impacts of the proposed project were analyzed and addressed to a less-than-significant level in the Cotati General Plan Update EIR (SCH# 2013082037), which was certified by the Cotati City Council on March 24, 2015, and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15183 allows a streamlined environmental review process for projects that are consistent with the anticipated circulation improvements established by existing land use regulation, adopted Public Works Development Standards and General Plan policies for which an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Cotati:
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1. All the above recitals are true, correct, and incorporated herein by reference; and

2. The construction contract for the Project is awarded to Zara Construction for $521,530; and

3. The Construction Management and Inspection Agreement with Green Valley Consulting Engineers for $99,945, is approved; and

4. The City Manager (or designee) is authorized to execute the construction contract for the Project, the Construction Management and Inspection agreement and any needed change orders, amendments and miscellaneous Project expenses up to $735,000.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on September 24, 2024, by the following vote, to wit:

Item
Number Item Description Quantity
Unit of
Measurement
Price Per Unit Total Price Price Per Unit Total Price
1 Mobilization 1 LS $145,000.00 $145,000.00 $30,000.00 $30,000.00 2 Traffic Control and Construction Area
Signs
1 LS $190,000.00 $190,000.00 $35,000.00 $35,000.00
3 Storm Water Pollution Prevention 1 LS $45,000.00 $45,000.00 $12,000.00 $12,000.00 4 Remove Concrete Curb & Gutter 95 LF $80.00 $7,600.00 $25.00 $2,375.00 5 Remove Concrete Sidewalk 692 SF $20.00 $13,840.00 $15.00 $10,380.00 6 Remove Concrete Driveway 185 SF $20.00 $3,700.00 $25.00 $4,625.00 7 Remove AC 5770 SF $9.00 $51,930.00 $4.00 $23,080.00
8 Remove AC Berm 32 LF $20.00 $640.00 $25.00 $800.00
9 Remove Brick 52 SF $22.00 $1,144.00 $25.00 $1,300.00
10 Remove Landscape Area 14,495 SF $2.20 $31,889.00 $3.00 $43,485.00 11 Remove Wooden Barricade 2 EA $530.00 $1,060.00 $500.00 $1,000.00 12 Remove 12" Storm Drain Pipe 25 LF $76.00 $1,900.00 $300.00 $7,500.00 13 Remove 18" Storm Drain Pipe 80 LF $40.00 $3,200.00 $200.00 $16,000.00 14 Install PCC Curb & Gutter 263 LF $220.00 $57,860.00 $100.00 $26,300.00 15 Install PCC Sidewalk 2,015 SF $43.00 $86,645.00 $30.00 $60,450.00 16 Install PCC Curb Ramp 130 SF $220.00 $28,600.00 $40.00 $5,200.00 17 Install PCC Driveway 185 SF $51.00 $9,435.00 $40.00 $7,400.00 18 Install Extruded Concrete Curb 525 LF $64.00 $33,600.00 $100.00 $52,500.00 19 Install Stabilized Decomposed Granite
Path 6,365 SF $53.00 $337,345.00 $12.00 $76,380.00
20 Aggregate Base (Along Stabilized
Decomposed Granite Path) 125 CY $250.00 $31,250.00 $150.00 $18,750.00 21 Asphalt Concrete 84 TN $1,335.00 $112,140.00 $500.00 $46,200.00 22 Segmental Retaining Wall 530 LF $256.00 $135,680.00 $80.00 $42,400.00

SIDEWALK GAP CLOSURE PROJECT
City of Cotati Bid Opening Date 08/27/2024
Engineer's Estimate: $700,700
Ghilotti Bros., Inc Zara Construction
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23 Install Landscape In-Kind at New
Grade 5,055 SF $7.00 $35,385.00 $7.00 $35,385.00
24 Speed Hump 1 EA $2,500.00 $2,500.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 25 Relocate Mailbox In-Kind. Install New
Post & Assembly 9 EA $1,200.00 $10,800.00 $1,500.00 $13,500.00 26 Relocate Sign & Post 3 EA $745.00 $2,235.00 $800.00 $2,400.00 27 Project Funding Board (City Furnished
& Contractor Installed) 3 EA $1,700.00 $5,100.00 $1,800.00 $5,400.00 28 Adjust to Grade Storm Drain Box 1 EA $2,290.00 $2,290.00 $4,000.00 $4,000.00 29 Adjust to Grade Water Meter, Box, &
Cover
6 EA $215.00 $1,290.00 $1,500.00 $9,000.00
30 Adjust to Grade Utility Vault 1 EA $600.00 $600.00 $1,800.00 $1,800.00 31 Relocate Utility Cabinet 1 EA $30,700.00 $30,700.00 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 32 Relocate Backflow Preventer 1 EA $3,900.00 $3,900.00 $3,000.00 $3,000.00 33 Area Drain With Open Grate 1 EA $6,600.00 $6,600.00 $12,000.00 $12,000.00 34 Install 12" Diameter RCP Pipe 38 LF $235.00 $8,930.00 $550.00 $20,900.00 35 Install 18" Diameter RCP Pipe 80 LF $240.00 $19,200.00 $600.00 $48,000.00 Total Base Bid: $1,458,988.00 $687,510.00
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS AND ASSIGNMENTS -

POLICE ADVISORY SELECTION SUBCOMMITTEE
Date: September 10, 2024
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve a motion to select two City Council members to serve on the Community-Police Advisory Committee Selection Subcommittee.

Background
The City Council recently created the Community-Police Advisory Committee through adoption of Ordinance 926. This five (5) person committee is selected by a selection committee, consisting of two City Council members and the City Manager. The City Council must appoint two City Council members to serve on the selection committee to review applications and interview candidates.

Analysis/Discussion
The current City Council Appointment and Assignments summary and detail tables, indicating the current appointments and assignments, are attached. These also provide details about each assignment and appointment for reference.

Financial Considerations
The appointments to the Community-Police Advisory Committee selection sub-committee will have no direct financial impact.

Environmental Issues
The proposed appointments and assignments do not have any effect on the environment. Where 159 of 1574
it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review. This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Summary City Council Committee Appointents Rev.pdf Cotati City Council
Appointments and Assignments for 2024
REVISED 9/10/2024
Name of Committee Current
Member(s)
Alternate

POSITIONS HELD BY COUNCILMEMBERS
Standing Sub-Committees
Community-Police Advisory Selection Committee
Regional Committees/Boards
(City Council Appointed)
Assoc. of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Sylvia Lemus Susan Harvey CRPUSD (Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District) 2x2x2 Kay Rivers Laura Sparks Rohnert Park-Cotati Library Advisory Board Kay Rivers Ben Ford Mayors’ and Councilmembers Legislative Committee Representative Sylvia Lemus Laura Sparks REMIF/CIRA Board of Directors Damien O’Bid Susan Harvey Russian River Watershed Association Ben Ford Laura Sparks Sonoma Clean Power Sylvia Lemus Ben Ford
Sonoma Co. Transportation Authority/Regional Climate Protection Authority (SCTA/RCPA)
Susan Harvey Ben Ford
Sonoma Co. Waste Management Agency (SCWMA/Zero Waste Sonoma) Susan Harvey Sylvia Lemus Sonoma Water Advisory Committee (WAC) Laura Sparks Sylvia Lemus Groundwater Sustainability Agency (Santa Rosa Plain) Susan Harvey Sylvia Lemus League of California Cities’ Annual Meeting Voting Delegate (assigned prior to meeting)
(assigned prior to
meeting)
Liaisons
Cotati Chamber of Commerce Sylvia Lemus Kay Rivers
Sonoma Mountain Twilight Rotary Club Kay Rivers N/A
Regional Committees/Boards
(Appointments as Indicated)
Joint Cotati City Council/Rohnert Park City Council Appointments Sonoma County Homeless Coalition Board of Directors
(Formerly the Continuum of Care Board of Directors)
Jackie Elward
(Rohnert Park)
Laura Sparks
Mayors’ and Councilmembers’ Association Appointments
Executive Board/City Selection Committee Mayor Vice Mayor League of California Cities’ North Bay Exec. Board Susan Harvey N/A Recommended by City Selection Committee (Appointed by County Board of Supervisors) LAFCO Susan Harvey N/A
Measure “O” Oversight Committee (County Mental Health Tax) Ben Ford N/A

POSITIONS HELD BY COTATI CITIZENS
(APPOINTED BY CITY COUNCIL OR BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, AS NOTED) AB 939 Local Task Force (Board of Supervisors appointment) Mark Soiland N/A Library Commission-Sonoma County Library (City Council appointment) N/A Marin/Sonoma Mosquito Vector Control Dist. (City Council appointment) Susan Harvey N/A Climate Action Advisory Committee
(Cotati RCPA Director appointment, 2 members)
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Cotati City Council
Appointments and Assignments Worksheet 2024
REVISED 9/10/2024
Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties

POSITIONS HELD BY COUNCILMEMBERS
Standing Sub-Committees
Community-Police
Advisory Selection
Committee
Dept.: City Manager
Hours: 1-2 hours per application received for review and interview of candidates.

Duties: Review applications to serve on the advisory committee and participate in the interviews and candidate selection.

Regional Committees/Boards
City Council Appointed Positions
Assoc. of Bay Area
Governments
(ABAG)
Dept.: City Manager
Hours: General Assemblies meeting in spring and fall
Duties: Attend and vote as needed at general assembly meetings Note: ABAG Alternates have voting rights
CRPUSD (CotatiRohnert Park
Unified School
District ) 2x2x2
Generally meets monthly, or as needed, to discuss issues in common with the Cities of Cotati and Rohnert Park and the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District. Meetings are typically 1-2 hours each. More recently has also include representatives from Sonoma State University.

Rohnert ParkCotati Library
Advisory Board
Optionally attend meetings in February, April, June, August, October and December, normally on the 3rd Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. at the Rohnert Park-Cotati Regional Library. Liaisons are non-voting members.
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
Mayors’ and
Council Members
Legislative
Committee Liaison
Dept.: City Manager.

Hours: Prior to COVID, meetings were held on the first Friday of the month, at 9:30 a.m. in the Maple room at the Finley Center in Santa Rosa. Meetings are currently held over Zoom, and it’s unclear if future meetings will be in-person again, continue to be virtual, or some combination. Meetings are usually 1-1/2 to 2 hours long.

Duties: Review all proposed legislation that could have an effect on cities; provide feedback to our League of Cities coordinator and potentially issue letters on pending legislation. As needed, agendize letters of support or opposition to a particular piece of legislation.

REMIF/CIRA
Board of Directors
Dept.: Administrative Services
Hours: Board meetings 4 times per year in Sacramento (generally all day); 2-day annual meeting each January (location rotates); annual PARMA conference each February. Cotati also currently holds the Vice Chair seat on the Executive Committee, which generally meets monthly, primarily in person in Sacramento.

Duties: Day to day management of risk management activities.

Qualifications: Specialized knowledge of risk management; recommended that staff be appointed given operational implications of this board.

Russian River
Watershed
Association
Dept.: Public Works
Hours: Meetings typically held from 9-11 am on 4th Thursday of the month every other month in Windsor. 2 hours every other month for Board meeting, plus time for preparation, travel, etc.

Duties: Attend RRWA Board meetings, as Cotati is a member. This group works on a variety of watershed issues that affect all members in the Russian River Watershed. It is an informational and advocacy group that focuses on watershed pollutants, permit issues, etc. The biggest issue currently is the pending municipal stormwater discharge permits.

Qualifications: Should have an interest and preferably background in regional watershed issues.
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
Sonoma Clean
Power
Dept: N/A
Hours: Meets in Santa Rosa on the 1st Thursday of every month from 9:00a – 12 noon. Allow for 3 hours every month for SCP Board meetings, plus time for preparation, travel, etc. Agendas and related documents can be lengthy and time consuming to review. Allow 5-15 hours per month.

Duties: Represent Cotati on regional green power agency. Weigh in on myriad power issues related to procurement and provision of clean energy on a regional basis. Involvement in representing the interests of California’s community choice electricity providers in the legislature and at state regulatory agencies. Work to help lead county wide GHG reduction efforts.

Qualifications: Should have some background and interest in power issues, clean power, and GHG emission reduction efforts. Preferably served as an alternate on SCP BOD for several years before becoming primary. Established working relationships with Sonoma County councilmembers and supervisors preferable.

Sonoma Co.

Transportation
Authority/Regional
Climate Protection
Authority
(SCTA/RCPA)
Dept.: Public Works
Hours: Meetings typically held from 3:00-5:00 pm on 1st Monday of the month in Santa Rosa. 2 hours every month for SCTA Board meetings, plus time for preparation, travel, etc. Agendas and related documents are lengthy and very time consuming to review. Allow 5-15 hours minimum per month.

Duties: Weigh in on a myriad of transportation related issues, including all modes of transportation. Involved in local and regional (Caltrans) projects. Also evolving to coordinate county wide GHG reduction efforts, which will become important.

Qualifications: Should have an interest in and preferably a background in transportation issues, including how they relates to GHG emissions. Preferably served as an alternate on SCTA/RCPA BOD for several years before becoming primary. Established working relationships with Sonoma County councilmembers and supervisors crucial.
*This is a critical assignment.

Sonoma Co. Waste
Management
Agency (SCWMA
aka Zero Waste
Sonoma)
Dept.: City Manager
Hours: Meets in Santa Rosa on 3rd Wednesday 9-11a, time commitment approx. 6 hours/month
Duties: Joint Powers agency with oversight of landfill and county-wide recycling efforts and hazardous materials.
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
Sonoma Water
Advisory
Committee (WAC)
Dept.: Public Works
Hours: Meetings typically held from 9-12 am on 1st Monday of the month at the Santa Rosa Utilities Field Office. 3 hours every month for WAC Board meetings, plus time for preparation, travel, etc. Agendas and related documents are lengthy and very time consuming to review. Allow 10 hours minimum per month Duties: Weigh in on issues related to SCWA water supply. The continuing Potter Valley Project issue is time consuming and may also require out of state travel to advocate on behalf of the City.

Qualifications: Should have an interest in and background in regional water supply issues. It will be especially important as the City deals with these issues. *This is a critical assignment. If the representative does not attend the City does not get a vote. Staff are not able to vote on behalf of the City.

Groundwater
Sustainability
Agency
Dept: Public Works
Hours: Typically 2nd Thursday, every other month, 1-3:30 PM Duties: Administered by Sonoma Water, Cotati sits on the GSA Board for the Santa Rosa Plain. This board reviews groundwater management activities and oversees monitoring.

Qualifications: Should have an interest in and background in regional water supply issues.

League of
California Cities’
Annual Meeting
Voting Delegate
Votes on resolutions at the annual business meeting during the Cal Cities annual conference. Generally Mayor and Vice Mayor, unless one or both are unable to attend.

Liaisons
Chamber of
Commerce
Sylvia
Lemus
Kay Rivers Attend monthly Chamber of Commerce Board of
Director’s meetings on the 2nd Tuesday at 5:15 p.m.

Sonoma Mountain
Twilight Rotary
Club
Kay Rivers N/A Hours: 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 6 pm.

Location: Stony Point Rm, Cotati Community Center,
201 West Sierra Avenue
Duties: Attend meetings on behalf of the City.
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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
Regional Committees/Boards
Appointments as Indicated
Joint Cotati City Council/Rohnert Park City Council Appointments Sonoma County
Homeless
Coalition Board of
Directors
(Cotati-Rohnert
Park
Representative)
Dept.: City Manager
Hours: Monthly meetings of Board, currently with various subcommittee appointments. Board meetings typically 4 hours each (1 – 5 pm). Allow for 12 hours per month, with an additional 4 hours per month of meeting preparation.

Duties: To ensure a well-functioning homelessness system of care in Sonoma County that works for the entire county.

Qualifications: Can be staff, elected, or citizen jointly appointed by the Cotati and Rohnert Park City Councils. Dense subject matter, so an understanding of homelessness systems or long-term appointment to be conversant in the subject matter desirable.

Mayors’ and Councilmembers’ Association Appointments
Executive Board
and City Selection
Committee
Member and alternate established by Gov’t Code § 50270 et seq League of
California Cities’
North Bay Exec.

Board
Appointed by the Mayors’ and Councilmembers’ Association Board of Directors; term expires TBD
Board of Supervisor Appointments (Recommended City Selection Committee) LAFCO Dept.: Board of Supervisors appointment; Recommended by City Selection Committee; current 4 year term expires 5/2027
Hours: Monthly in the Board of Supervisors’ Chamber on the first Wednesday at 2:00 p.m.

Duties: To regulate the boundaries of cities and special districts. 166 of 1574

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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
Measure “O”
Oversight
Committee
(County Mental
Health Tax)
Dept: Board of Supervisors appointment; Recommended by City Selection Committee; current 3 year term expires 12/7/2024.

Hours: Approximately quarterly, meetings currently held virtually. 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.

Duties: Review the receipt and expenditures of Measure O revenue, including the County’s annual independent audit in conjunction with the County’s budget process. Produce an annual oral or written report on its review which shall be considered by the Board at a public meeting. The committee’s responsibilities shall not include decision-making on spending priorities, financing plans or tax rate projections or assumptions and the committee shall have no authority to direct, nor shall it direct, County or City staff or officials.

POSITIONS HELD BY COTATI CITIZENS
(APPOINTED BY CITY COUNCIL OR

THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, AS NOTED)
Name of
Committee
Hours/Duties
AB 939 Local Task
Force
Dept.: City Manager
Hours: Bi-monthly - Second Thursday of the month - 1:30-3:00 p.m. - at Sonoma County Department of Transportation & Public Works
Duties: To develop goals, policies, and procedures which are consistent with guidelines and regulations adopted by the Board, to guide the development of the Siting Element of the County-wide integrated waste management plan.

Library
Commission –
Sonoma County
Library
Dept.: N/A
Hours: Meets at Santa Rosa City Hall, generally meets monthly on the first Monday, but the day may vary, with additional special meetings as needed.

Duties/term: Council-appointed citizen commissioner.

Marin/Sonoma
Mosquito and
Vector Control
District
(MSMVCD)
Dept.: N/A
Hours: Board of Trustees meet monthly at MSMVCD headquarters in Cotati at 6:00 p.m. on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.

Duties/term: City Council appointed for 2 or 4 year terms. 167 of 1574

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C:\inetpub\wwwroot\multitenant\temp\2024.Detail Committee Assignments Rev.pdf Climate Action
Advisory
Committee
(CAAC)
Dept. City Manager. Two representatives are chosen by each RCPA Board members from their respective jurisdictions.

Duties: The CAAC provides information and advice to the Regional Climate Protection Authority (RCPA) Board, staff and project consultants during the development and implementation of climate action programs. The CAAC does not take official votes or make direct recommendations to any hearing body and consists of stakeholders selected by the RCPA Board of Directors, to represent a diversity of viewpoints and areas of technical expertise.

Hours: The CAAC meets quarterly on the 2nd Friday in January, April, July, and October.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: APPROVAL OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW FOR THE
HIGHWAY 116/WEST COTATI AVENUE INTERSECTION

SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT (PROJECT) AND A

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MARK

THOMAS & COMPANY, INC FOR DESIGN SERVICES FOR
THE HIGHWAY 116/WEST COTATI AVENUE

INTERSECTION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AND

AUTHORIZING APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS FOR THE

PROJECT
Date: September 10, 2024
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the Council of the City of Cotati adopt a resolution approving the Environmental Review, finding the Project exempt from CEQA pursuant to California Public Resources Code CEQA Guidelines Section15183, for the Highway 116/West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements Project (Project), approving a Professional Services Agreement with Mark Thomas & Company, Inc. for design services for the Project, authorizing the recording of the CEQA document, authorizing the City Manager to execute said Professional Services Agreement and approve any needed amendments up to the approved budget amount, and approving the appropriation of funds to the Project account Background
The intersection of West Cotati Avenue and Highway 116 has long been a safety concern as it serves the West side of town and is off a busy two-lane highway. The City continues to pursue grant funds to improve the intersection and is included in the City’s Traffic Impact Fee Program.

The intersection was included in the Caltrans Highway 116 Widening Project, for which plans were completed in 2009, and was to be improved with the South Sonoma Business Park.

However, the Business Park did not get completed in its entirety and only improvements to the Lowes development were completed.
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Improving the intersection remains a priority for the City, and in 2021, the City included the Project as one of five projects submitted to the Sonoma County Transportation Authority to prioritize for grant funding opportunities. Additionally in 2021, the City completed its Local Road Safety Plan which identified the intersection improvements as a priority safety project, and, in 2024, the City adopted its Active Transportation Plan which also includes the Project as a high priority. The improvements are envisioned to move ahead in tandem with the recently entitled Cotati Villages 1 and 2 development projects which are to add a total of 303 rental units including 31 affordable units for families in the very low-income bracket. The private developments are dependent upon the proposed Project improvements being constructed and impact fees for those projects are to be applied to the Project. Additionally, the City has been successful in obtaining Federal and State funds for Project construction.

Analysis/Discussion
On October 25, 2022, City Council approved professional services agreements to complete the environmental review and 35 percent design for the Project. Those efforts are now complete and Staff is recommending City approval of the environmental review and approving an agreement to complete the design and obtain Caltrans approvals.

City Engineering issued a Request for Qualifications and, in August 2024, received qualifications from several engineering firms. Upon review of the qualifications, Staff determined Mark Thomas & Company, Inc. to be the most qualified to provide the requested services for the Project. The firm has extensive prior experience for similar projects that require navigating the Caltrans approval process and working with resource agencies. Additionally, Mark Thomas was part of the consultant team that developed the 35 percent of design drawings for the Project. Therefore, Staff requested, and Mark Thomas provided a proposal to complete design, obtain Caltrans project approvals including the encroachment permit, and prepare bid documents for the Project. The effort includes obtaining all foreseeable permits and clearances for construction including a property swap needed for the intersection. With the services beginning this month, bidding is projected to occur sometime in early 2026.

Environmental Review
The City completed an extensive Environmental Review concurrently with 35 percent design effort. The effort began in late 2022 and concluded in June of this year and included public outreach with informational presentations at both the Planning Commission and City Council.

Additionally, the Project has a public website containing the project description, timelines, background information, project plans, and a way to provide comments and reach City Staff.

The CEQA Analysis is attached and uses CEQA Guidelines Sections 15183, which provides a streamlined review of the Project by tiering from the program level analysis prepared for the Cotati General Plan and its certified Environmental Impact Report (EIR), thereby focusing the analysis to potential impacts of the Project relative to the impacts analyzed in the EIR. The Project must incorporate or comply with all applicable mitigation measures identified in the General Plan EIR, uniformly applied development standards, and environmental approval conditions. Section 7 of the CEQA Analysis contains the environmental conditions of approval 170 of 1574
imposed on the Project.

The Project has been analyzed pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 and does not require circulation for public review and comment. Nonetheless, the City will continue to make the Project design and this CEQA Analysis available through a public process, which requires approval from the City Council for the design, engineering, and construction of the preferred alignment for State Route 116 and West Cotati Avenue Realignment.

Design Agreement Scope
The Mark Thomas proposed scope of services is attached and is to take the 35 percent design to 100 percent and obtain all necessary State and Federal project approvals. Design scope items include the typical project management, surveys and mapping, utility coordination, right of way acquisition, drainage and geotechnical studies and, of course preparing the final plans and bid documents. Because the Project is within the Caltrans right-of-way, Caltrans needs to approve the Project and issue an encroachment permit. Caltrans being involved adds significantly to the project scope and is the primary driver increasing costs. Staff and the consultant believe the Project qualifies for the “streamlined” Design Engineering Evaluation Report (DEER) process to obtain project approval. This is an extensive process requiring many added steps and approvals by a dozen or more Caltrans Divisions. Many tasks identified as “Optional” are included in the proposal fee but are determined at the discretion of Caltrans. Upon completion of the scope of services, the Project would be cleared to be advertised for bidding and Caltrans approvals would have been obtained to allow construction to begin.

Financial Considerations
Previous expenditures to develop the 35% design plans include $343,042 for design and $96,190 for CEQA ($439,232).
.

The City’s adopted FY24/25 Budget includes $362,000, to complete the design for the Project.

The proposed design cost is $1,206,756, which leaves a funding shortfall of approximately $844,756. The Table below lists the proposed sources of funding for this shortfall:

The Class 1 Pathway Maintenance Project was to repave/maintain certain Class 1 pathways in the City. Staff is proposing to have internal forces (City Public Works staff) complete spot repairs including failed sections on the Laguna Trail and the Delano Park trail, to ensure some 171 of 1574
progress is made this year on this identified need.

The Trash Project was to make progress on implementing a ten-year program to reduce trash entering creeks within the City. The State’s deadline for full implementation is December 2nd, 2030. Deferring this year’s trash project, will result in the City having to make these program investments in the remaining years to 2030.

The 2026 Street Improvements Project adopted design budget is $60,000, which will not begin design work until the spring of 2025 for construction in the fall of 2025 or spring of 2026. The City currently has some designed projects ready to be packaged and bid, so it is expected that the design fee will be lower than budgeted.

Finally, the 2025 Street Improvements Project funds are not expected to be spent until construction is ready in the Spring of 2025. Due to the housing construction around Sonoma Mountain Village, Rohnert Park has been collecting mitigation funds to offset impacts to Cotati roadways. However, these funds have not yet been remitted to the City of Cotati. Staff propose borrowing the already budgeted funds from the 2025 Street Improvements Project now and replenishing these funds with the Rohnert Park traffic mitigation funds when they become available. These funds are estimated to exceed the amount “borrowed” from the 2025 Street Improvements Project.

Next the Gateway Signage project budget for fiscal year 2024/25 where $10,000 was an initial work towards the enhancement of City monuments. The majority of this project was pushed within the City’s 5 year CIP to fiscal year 2025/26 for a total of $573,000. As such staff propose moving these design start up charges as well to the 2025/26 fiscal year.

Therefore, the recommended action is to authorize the postponement of the Class 1 Pathway Maintenance Project, the Trash Implementation Plan – Phase 1 Project, the Gateway Signage Project, and reappropriate those funds to the Highway 116/ West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements Project design. Additionally, use of the 2025 Street Improvements Project construction funds is approved with the intent to replenish those funds once Rohnert Park traffic mitigation funds are received by the City.

Environmental Issues
The Project implements the General Plan and is consistent with the circulation plans and infrastructure facilities established by the adopted Public Works Development Standards, circulation planning and General Plan policies for which an EIR was certified. The analysis relies upon the program level analysis prepared for the 2015 City of Cotati General Plan and its EIR (SCH No. 2013082037), which was certified in 2015. The project is an infrastructure improvement to ensure the on-going bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicular circulation function safely and appropriately for Cotati residents under the General Plan build out, as analyzed in the General Plan EIR. The project would not result in substantial changes nor does it involve new information that would warrant further environmental review because the level of improvements proposed are primarily the construction of limited new features along an existing roadway, which were planned for and included within the development assumptions analyzed in the program level EIR for the General Plan. Furthermore, the project does not contain elements that are 172 of 1574
peculiar to the project or project site(s) that would result in new or more severe environmental impacts relative to the General Plan EIR. Lastly, all adopted mitigating General Plan policies and mitigation measures identified in the 2015 General Plan EIR that apply to the Project will be imposed as requirements within the construction contract. With implementation of identified General Plan mitigation measures and uniformly applied development standards, the project would not result in a substantial increase in the severity or significant impacts that were previously identified in the program level EIR, nor would the project introduce any new significant impacts that were not previously identified. There would be no additional environmental impacts beyond those analyzed in the General Plan EIR, and therefore the project is exempt pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)

RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI APPROVING THE

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW, FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM CEQA

PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183, FOR THE HIGHWAY 116/WEST COTATI AVENUE

INTERSECTION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT (PROJECT), APPROVING

A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MARK THOMAS &
COMPANY, INC. FOR DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE PROJECT, AUTHORIZING

THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAID PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

AGREEMENT AND APPROVE ANY NEEDED AMENDMENTS UP TO THE

APPROVED BUDGET AMOUNT, AND APPROVING THE APPROPRIATION OF

FUNDS TO THE PROJECT ACCOUNT
WHEREAS, the intersection of West Cotati Avenue and Highway 116 has long been a safety concern as it serves the West side of town and is off a busy two-lane highway, and the City continues to pursue grant funds to improve the intersection and is included in the City’s Traffic Impact Fee Program; and
WHEREAS, the intersection was included in the Caltrans Highway 116 Widening Project, for which plans were completed in 2009, and was to be improved with the South Sonoma Business Park, however, the Business Park did not get completed in its entirety and only improvements to the Lowes development were completed; and WHEREAS, improving the intersection remains a priority for the City, and in 2021, the City included the Project as one of five projects submitted to the Sonoma County Transportation Authority to prioritize for grant funding opportunities, additionally in 2021, the City completed its Local Road Safety Plan which identified the intersection improvements as a priority safety project, and, in 2024, the City adopted its Active Transportation Plan which also includes the Project as a high priority; and
WHEREAS, the improvements are envisioned to move ahead in tandem with the recently entitled Cotati Villages 1 and 2 development projects which are to add a total of 303 rental units including 31 affordable units for families in the very low-income bracket, and the private developments are dependent upon the proposed Project improvements being constructed and impact fees for those projects are to be applied to the Project, additionally, the City has been successful in obtaining Federal and State funds for Project construction; and WHEREAS, on October 25, 2022, City Council approved professional services agreements to complete the environmental review and 35 percent design for the Project, and those efforts are now complete and Staff is recommending City approval of the environmental review and approving an agreement to complete the design and obtain Caltrans approvals; and WHEREAS, City Engineering issued a Request for Qualifications and, in August, 2024 received qualifications from a number of engineering firms, and, upon review of the qualifications, Staff determined Mark Thomas & Company, Inc. to be the most qualified to provide the requested services for the Project; and
WHEREAS, the firm has extensive prior experience for similar projects that require navigating the Caltrans approval process and working with resource agencies, additionally, Mark Thomas was part of the consultant team that developed the 35 percent design drawings for the Project; therefore, Staff requested and Mark Thomas provided a proposal to complete design, obtain Caltrans project approvals including the encroachment permit, and prepare bid documents for the Project; and
WHEREAS, the proposed services include obtaining all foreseeable permits and clearances for construction including a property swap needed for the intersection, and, with the scope of services beginning this month, bidding is projected to occur sometime in early 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City completed an extensive Environmental Review concurrently with the 35 percent design effort, and the effort began in late 2022 and concluded in June of this year and included public outreach with informational presentations at both the Planning Commission and City Council, additionally, the Project has a public website containing the project description, timelines, background information, project plans, and a way to provide comments and reach City Staff; and
WHEREAS, the CEQA Analysis is attached and uses CEQA Guidelines Sections 15183, which provides a streamlined review of the Project by tiering from the program level analysis prepared for the Cotati General Plan and its certified Environmental Impact Report (EIR), thereby focusing the analysis to potential impacts of the Project relative to the impacts analyzed in the EIR, and the Project is required to incorporate or comply with all applicable mitigation measures identified in the General Plan EIR, uniformly applied development standards, and environmental conditions of approval, and Section 7 of the CEQA Analysis contains the environmental conditions of approval imposed on the Project; and WHEREAS, the Project has been analyzed pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 and does not require circulation for public review and comment, nonetheless, the City will continue to make the Project design and this CEQA Analysis available through a public process, which requires approval from the City Council for the design, engineering, and construction of the preferred alignment for State Route 116 and West Cotati Avenue Realignment; and WHEREAS, the Mark Thomas proposed scope of services is attached and is to take the 35 percent design to 100 percent and obtain all necessary State and Federal project approvals, and
WHEREAS, upon completion of the scope of services, the Project would be cleared to be advertised for bidding and Caltrans approvals would have been obtained to allow construction to begin; and
WHEREAS, the City’s adopted FY24/25 Budget includes $362,000, to complete the design for the Project, and the proposed design cost is $1,206,756, which leaves a funding shortfall of $844,756; and
WHEREAS, the Table below lists the proposed other project reductions which will provide the sources of funding for this shortfall:

Project Proposed
Action
Available Funds
Class 1 Pathway Maintenance Project Postpone/City
Forces
$185,000
Trash Implementation Plan – Phase 1 Postpone $231,000
2025 Street Improvements Project – Construction* Use/Replenish $412,000 2026 Street Improvements Project – Design Reduce design budget
$ 6,756
Gateway Signage Postpone $ 10,000
Total $844,756
; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 Street Improvements Project funds are not expected to be spent until construction is ready in the late Spring of 2025, and Staff proposes using those funds and replenishing them once the Rohnert Park traffic mitigation funds, for use by the City in mitigating traffic impacts from new development in Rohnert Park, are transferred to the City, and these funds are estimated to exceed the amount “borrowed” from the 2025 Street Improvements Project; and
WHEREAS, the recommended action is to authorize the postponement of the Class 1 Pathway Maintenance Project, the Trash Implementation Plan – Phase 1 Project, Gateway Signage Project, borrow some design funding from the 2026 Street Improvements Project, and use the available 2025 Street Improvements Project construction funds with the intent to replenish those funds once Rohnert Park traffic mitigation funds are received by the City; and WHEREAS, the Project implements the General Plan and is consistent with the circulation plans and infrastructure facilities established by the adopted Public Works Development Standards, circulation planning and General Plan policies for which an EIR was certified; and
WHEREAS, the analysis relies upon the program level analysis prepared for the 2015 City of Cotati General Plan and its EIR (SCH No. 2013082037), which was certified in 2015, and the project is an infrastructure improvement to ensure the on-going bicycle, pedestrian and vehicular circulation function safely and appropriately for Cotati residents under the General Plan build out, as analyzed in the General Plan EIR; and WHEREAS, the project would not result in substantial changes nor does it involve new information that would warrant further environmental review because the level of improvements proposed are primarily the construction of limited new features along an existing roadway, which were planned for and included within the development assumptions analyzed in the program level EIR for the General Plan, furthermore, the project does not contain elements that are peculiar to the project or project site(s) that would result in new or more severe environmental impacts relative to the General Plan EIR, lastly, all adopted mitigating General Plan policies and mitigation measures identified in the 2015 General Plan EIR that apply to the Project will be imposed as requirements within the construction contract; and WHEREAS, with implementation of identified General Plan mitigation measures and uniformly applied development standards, the project would not result in a substantial increase in the severity or significant impacts that were previously identified in the program level EIR, nor would the project introduce any new significant impacts that were not previously identified; and WHEREAS, there would be no additional environmental impacts beyond those analyzed in the General Plan EIR, and therefore the project is exempt pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Cotati hereby determines the Project implements the General Plan and is consistent with the circulation plans and infrastructure facilities established by the adopted Public Works Development Standards, circulation planning and General Plan policies for which an EIR was certified. The analysis relies upon the program level analysis prepared for the 2015 City of Cotati General Plan and its EIR (SCH No. 2013082037), which was certified in 2015. The project is an infrastructure improvement to ensure the on-going bicycle, pedestrian and vehicular circulation function safely and appropriately for Cotati residents under the General Plan build out, as analyzed in the General Plan EIR. The project would not result in substantial changes nor does it involve new information that would warrant further environmental review because the level of improvements proposed are primarily the construction of limited new features along an existing roadway, which were planned for and included within the development assumptions analyzed in the program level EIR for the General Plan. Furthermore, the project does not contain elements that are peculiar to the project or project site(s) that would result in new or more severe environmental impacts relative to the General Plan EIR. Lastly, all adopted mitigating General Plan policies and mitigation measures identified in the 2015 General Plan EIR that apply to the Project will be imposed as requirements within the construction contract. With implementation of identified General Plan mitigation measures and uniformly applied development standards, the project would not result in a substantial increase in the severity or significant impacts that were previously identified in the program level EIR, nor would the project introduce any new significant impacts that were not previously identified. There would be no additional environmental impacts beyond those analyzed in the General Plan EIR, and therefore the project is exempt pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Cotati determines:

1. The recitals stated above are true and correct, and

2. The Professional Services Agreement with Mark Thomas & Company, Inc. for Design Services for the Highway 116/West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements Project is approved, and

3. The City Manager is authorized to execute the aforementioned professional services agreement and any needed amendments up to the authorized Project budget, and

4. The City Manager or designee is authorized to postpone the Class 1 Pathway Maintenance Project, the Trash Implementation Plan – Phase 1, Gateway Signage Project, use design funds from the 2026 Street Improvements Project and borrow funds from the 2025 Street Improvements Project for the subject Project until such time as those funds are replenished from other sources including the Rohnert Park Traffic Mitigation funds, and

5. Authorize the City Manager or designees to reappropriate funds from the postponed projects to the Project budget account.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on September 10, 2024, by the following vote, to wit:

SCOPE OF WORK
TASK 1. PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Mark Thomas will manage the project team, which includes Mark Thomas, Fehr & Peers (F&P), Crawford & Associates, Inc. (Crawford), M-Group and ARWS. Mark Thomas’s Project Manager will plan, organize, direct, and monitor project work activities and resources in accordance with contracted scope, schedule, and budget. This task will include managing the team, coordinating with Caltrans and the City of Cotati (City), and includes preparing contract paperwork, memos, letters, and e-mail, making phone calls, and maintaining project files. This activity commences with receiving the Notice-To-Proceed, continues through submittal of the key final project deliverables, and concludes when the project’s Encroachment Permit is issued. This project scope is anticipated to last 18 months.

Task 1.1. Project Management and Administration
This task will include managing subconsultant contracts and planning ahead for milestones requiring joint project team effort. Our project manager will develop and prepare monthly invoices and progress reports and maintain project files.

The monthly progress report will include a summary report of progress, including schedule and budget notes. It is assumed the project schedule will be updated on a monthly basis.

Task 1.2. Meetings and Coordination
This task will include coordinating and scheduling meetings, periodically checking in on subconsultant progress, and assisting in communication between team members, City, and other stakeholders. Mark Thomas will attend a project kickoff meeting with the City and hold up to six (6) Project Development Team (PDT) meetings, six (6) technical focus meetings, and thirty-six (36) bi-weekly coordination meetings with City staff to keep the project on track.

Task 1.3. Project Schedule
Our project manager will develop and maintain a Critical Path Method (CPM) Project Schedule. The baseline schedule will be sent to the City ahead of the kick-off meeting for approval and will be updated on a monthly basis during the project which is anticipated to last 18 months.

Task 1.4. Quality Management Plan
Mark Thomas will prepare a project specific Quality Management Plan to describe the quality procedures that will be implemented for work performed during the development, review, and approval of the DEER and final design. This task also includes performing QA/QC work on project deliverables.

TASK 1 DELIVERABLES:
• Project Schedule with monthly updates (up to 18)
• Monthly invoices and progress reports (up to 18)
• Meeting Agendas and Minutes for Kickoff Meeting and PDT Meetings:
o Kick-off Meeting
o up to 6 PDT Meetings
o up to 6 technical focus meetings
o up to 36 Bi-Weekly Coordination Meetings
• Quality Management Plan
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SR 116 & West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements City of Cotati
• All deliverables to be submitted in .pdf format unless specifically stated otherwise TASK 2. SURVEYS AND MAPPING
Task 2.1. Aerial Mapping (ABC)
Mark Thomas will process the Aerial mapping acquired through previous phases of work in accordance with the Caltrans ABC process. As part of the Caltrans A-B-C process, Mark Thomas will submit an “A” letter to Caltrans for approval. Based upon the approval from Caltrans we will utilize the requested datum, however it is anticipated that the Horizontal datum will be CCS 83, Epoch 2017.50 (California Coordinate System, North America Datum, 1983) and vertical datum to be NAVD 88 (North American Vertical Datum of 1988). The proposed photo control layout will be submitted to Caltrans as part of the A-B-C mapping submittal. Mark Thomas will submit a GPS report to Caltrans as part of A-B-C mapping process and secure approval from Caltrans for Submittal B.

The mapping will be digitally compiled in MicroStation formats to conform to Caltrans’ A-B-C mapping process and submitted for approval.

Task 2.2. Base Map (Optional Task)
Mark Thomas will perform a field survey to locate necessary monumentation to retrace the Right of Way lines of Hwy 116, W Cotati Ave, Alder Ave and Redwood Dr. Our research indicates that Parcel maps (PM), Records of Survey (RS) & Tract maps (TM) shown in publicly available from the Sonoma County Surveyors office will be sufficient to complete this survey. It is our understanding that no other monument ties to other maps will be necessary to complete this project other than those publicly available. Should a material discrepancy be found or evidence of a dispute with adjoiners be discovered, Mark Thomas will stop boundary survey work under the current scope and discuss options with the City to move forward with the right of way retracement. Once the locations of the Right of Way lines are retraced based on the field evidence collected, Mark Thomas will plot this boundary in a CAD file that will serve as the basis for design. Mark Thomas assumes current title reports will be required to show the locations of easements. Mark Thomas includes the acquisition of 2 title reports will be a reimbursable cost. Only easements shown in the title reports will be shown. It is assumed that boundary evidence necessary to define the boundary will be readily available. This Boundary Survey scope is limited to one (1) day of fieldwork.

Mark Thomas will produce a Right of way Base map showing existing parcel configurations and survey monuments recovered as part of a field survey overlayed with the aerial topo background. The Base map will be in accordance with the District 4 LPO guidelines and submitted to Caltrans for acceptance after review by the City. Upon receiving comments from Caltrans, Mark Thomas will address the comments and resubmit to Caltrans for final acceptance.

Addressing one round of comments is included in this scope of work.

Task 2.3. Appraisal Maps
Mark Thomas will produce an Appraisal Map Based upon proposed acquisitions determined in design, Mark Thomas will prepare two (2) sheets of appraisal maps at 1”=50’ for review and acceptance through Caltrans LPO process. The appraisal map will show the dimensions and areas of the proposed right of way takes as well as existing encumbrances/title exceptions as revealed in up to date title reports. The Appraisal map will be submitted to Caltrans for acceptance after review by the City. Upon receiving comments from Caltrans, Mark Thomas will address the comments and resubmit to Caltrans for final acceptance. The appraisal map will be used by the City or their designee (AR/WS) to perform property appraisals and negotiations with property owners. 180 of 1574
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Task 2.4. Legal Descriptions and Plats
Mark Thomas will prepare up to two (2) descriptions from up to two (2) owners without plat per Caltrans LPO process for acquisition of property (takes). It is assumed no Consent to Common Use Agreements or Joint Use Agreements (CCUA/JUA) are required and temporary construction easements are also excluded. Preparing legal descriptions to clear title encumbrances are not included in this scope. It is assumed that up to date title reports will be provided by the City.

Task 2.5. Record Right of Way Map (Optional Task)
Mark Thomas will prepare a preliminary Right of Way Record Map at 1”=50’ scale, up to two (2) sheets, as working documents to facilitate preparation of the revised right of way data sheet. It is assumed these maps will include ownership information, assessor parcel numbers (APNs) and approximate square footage of fee acquisitions, utility easements, and maintenance easements. Detailed dimensions will be added to show the proposed land transfers and will be submitted for review and acceptance through Caltrans LPO process.

Task 2.6. Record of Survey
Once the Right of Way Record Map is approved, Mark Thomas will prepare a Record of Survey at 1”=50’ scale up to two (2) sheets to be filed with the County to document the land transfers after construction is completed. It is assumed these maps will include the old and new ownership information, assessor parcel numbers (APNs), the recording information of the land transfer documents as well as the location of up to ten (10) monuments. The Record of Survey will be submitted for review and acceptance through Caltrans LPO process and with the County. All fees with the Sonoma County Planning Department, Surveyor or Recorder paid by Mark Thomas will be reimbursable by the City under this contract.

Task 2.7. Supplemental Topography
Mark Thomas will perform a field survey to collect pertinent accessible above ground features which will be located and documented to augment the aerial survey using conventional ground survey techniques. Ground visible features to be captured include, but are not limited to sidewalks, curb and gutter, driveways, curb ramps, fences, private utilities, storm and sewer facilities, trees, street lighting, signing, striping, and markings within the project limits. Storm and sewer will be dipped to determine invert elevations and pipe diameters within the streets around the site. Field crews will rely upon markings on utility feature lids. No utilities will be dipped other than sewer and storm. Detailed topographic surveys are limited to five (5) days of field work.

Task 2.8. Potholing
Mark Thomas shall have underground exploratory potholing conducted (via a subconsultant) to verify locations of existing utility facilities in compliance with Caltrans policy on High and Low Risk Facilities. Potholes shall be collected at tie in points and at locations of possible conflict with existing utilities to remain in place. The budget for this scope of work assumes a total of ten (10) potholes at $3,500 per pothole. The actual cost of potholing will be determined once the actual locations and required number of potholes are determined, prior to the actual work being performed.

Pothole locations shall be field surveyed. Pothole information shall be added to the final design plans to record utility mapping.

TASK 2 DELIVERABLES:
• Caltrans A, B and C Survey Mapping Submittals
• Caltrans Base Map
• Appraisal Maps (up to 2)
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• Legal Descriptions (up to 2)
• Draft and Final Right of Way Record Map
• Draft and Final Record of Survey
• Supplemental Field topography (up to 5 days of crew time) • Potholing Report
• All deliverables to be submitted in .pdf format unless specifically stated otherwise TASK 3. CALTRANS DEER
Task 3.1. Geometric Approval Drawings (35% Plans)
Mark Thomas will make revisions to the existing 35% plans and cost estimate based on Caltrans comments. We will not progress the design past 35% but simply adjust minor details for purposes of DEER approval. Final design will commence after Caltrans approval of the DEER but can be accelerated as requested by the City during the DEER process.

Task 3.2. Stormwater Data Report
Mark Thomas will prepare a PA&ED and PS&E level Stormwater Data Report for the project. Based on the proposed project features, it is assumed that a PA&ED phase SWDR long form will be prepared. The SWDR will focus on the storm water quality issues to construct the project and implementation of appropriate temporary and permanent Best Management Practices. The PA&ED level SWDR will be included as an attachment to the DEER and updates to that document will be needed in the PS&E phase to receive final Caltrans approvals before construction.

Task 3.3. Right of Way Data Sheet
The Mark Thomas team will prepare Right of Way Data Sheets in conformance with Chapter 4 of the Caltrans Manual, for inclusion within the DEER. The right of way Data Sheet shall depict proposed right of way impacts, the approximate area calculations for the proposed acquisition, the property owner’s name(s), and utility relocation information and relocation cost estimates. It is assumed that two parcels will be permanently affected by the project.

Task 3.4. Traffic Analysis Updates
As a part of the Mark Thomas team, Fehr & Peers will update the existing traffic analysis prepared during the 35% design phase and make minor changes to the report based on Caltrans’ comments. It is assumed the analysis portion of the document will not need to be revised and no modeling work is included.

Task 3.5. Intersection Control Evaluation
As a part of the Mark Tomas team, Fehr & Peers will build on the traffic memorandum developed as part of the 35% design stage as a basis for the development of an ICE for the proposed reconfigured SR 116 and West Cotati Avenue intersection. This will include a qualitative discussion of whether a roundabout is appropriate for this intersection, citing issues with the compatibility of adjacent development projects to be phased in over time.

Task 3.6. Initial Site Assessment
As a part of the Mark Thomas team, Crawford will collect soil samples to screen for lead content in soil along the shoulder areas of Highway 116, and traffic striping samples to assess the metals content. 182 of 1574
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Aerially Deposited Lead (ADL): Crawford will mark sample locations for USA/811 clearance during the ISA site reconnaissance and will obtain encroachment permits from the City of Cotati. A Crawford field technician will return to the site to collect soil samples from up to 10 locations along Highway 116, at depths of 0‑6”, 12”-18”, and 24”-30” below ground surface (total of 30 soil samples). Samples will be collected with a hand auger. All samples will be analyzed for total lead by EPA Method 6010, and eight samples will be analyzed for pH by EPA Method 9045. Samples with total lead concentrations that exceed 50 milligrams/kilogram will be further analyzed for soluble lead using the WET and TCLP methods. For budgeting purposes, we assume that 10 samples will require analysis for soluble lead.

Traffic Striping: Crawford will collect three samples of both white and yellow thermoplastic traffic striping material. All samples will be analyzed for lead, and the yellow striping samples will also be analyzed for chromium (EPA Method 6010).

The ADL and traffic striping sampling results will be included in the ISA report.

Crawford will prepare a Phase 1 Initial Site Assessment (ISA) to evaluate the project area and adjacent properties for evidence of recognized environmental conditions (RECs) and/or potential RECs that may significantly impact the constructability, feasibility, and/or cost of the project. The ISA will be prepared in accordance with the procedures set forth in Caltrans’ Standard Environmental Reference, Chapter 10, and ASTM E1527-21. The ISA will include the following elements:

Records review: Crawford will contract with Environmental Risk Information Service (ERIS) to conduct a computerized search of federal, state, local, and tribal environmental agency database records. These database records will be reviewed for information pertaining to the subject property, and properties within ASTM standard search radii applicable to each database. The databases searched will include, at a minimum, all databases specified in ASTM E1527-

21. Physical Setting Review: The ISA will also include a summary of geologic conditions underlying the subject property and vicinity based on readily available geologic mapping from the US Geological Survey and the California Geological Survey; and a summary of hydrogeologic conditions (including depth to groundwater and regional groundwater flow, if readily available) based on information from websites maintained by the State of California.

Historical Land Use Review: ERIS will provide historical aerial photographs, historical USGS topographic maps, city directories, and Sanborn fire insurance maps (where available) for the subject property and vicinity. Crawford will review these data to develop a history of general property uses for the project alignment and surrounding parcels back to the alignment’s first development, or 1940, whichever is earlier.

Site Reconnaissance: Crawford will perform a driving and walking reconnaissance of the subject parcel and vicinity to observe current conditions. Conditions on adjacent parcels will be observed from the public right-of-way. The reconnaissance will include observations of geologic, hydrogeologic, and topographic conditions; uses and storage of hazardous materials and wastes within and adjacent to the project alignment; and general conditions with regard to the presence of underground and above ground storage tanks, drums, wells, electrical equipment, stockpiled soil, vegetation, odors, and sewage/waste disposal, as appropriate.

Interviews: Where warranted by observations and data, Crawford will make reasonable attempts to interview current and past property owners, tenants, and key site mangers where names and contact information is provided. Crawford many also contact City of Chico or Butte County Environmental Health Department personnel to inquire about 183 of 1574
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department knowledge pertaining to the project alignment or properties in the project vicinity, as warranted by the findings and reconnaissance.

Report of Findings: A report documenting our assessment will be prepared for the project. The report will include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
• Description of the subject property and vicinity;
• Summary of the physical setting, local geologic conditions, and hydrogeologic conditions; • Summary of the historical record review and historical site usage; • Findings from the records review;
• Site reconnaissance observations;
• Interview results;
• Photographs of significant items of environmental concern observed during the site reconnaissance (if any); • Findings, Opinions, and Conclusions on potential impacts: including a summary of RECs, and a discussion of significant data gaps and data failures; and
• Recommendations: As warranted by the findings for additional investigation and/or sampling for potentially hazardous materials.

One round of City and Caltrans reviews are assumed with the scope.

Task 3.7. Geotechnical Design and Materials Report
As a part of the Mark Thomas team, Crawford will prepare a Geotechnical Design and Materials Report based on current Caltrans standards. Crawford will determine exploration locations, site access, and mark our exploration locations for USA North 811. Obtain a Sonoma County Environmental Health Permit for our borings and no-fee Cotati and Caltrans Encroachment Permits.

Crawford will conduct a subsurface exploration program to characterize the subsurface conditions for the roadway widening, retaining walls, at-grade bicycle lanes, and sidewalks. Four to five borings (5 to 20 ft deep) will be drilled at the proposed retaining wall locations. The drilling contractor will advance these borings with a truck and/or track mounted drill rig using 6 to 8-inch-diameter hollow, solid stem augers, and/or rotary wash methods. Standard Penetration Testing (SPT) and California Modified sampling will be performed within borings to obtain samples and blow count information. A Crawford engineer/geologist will direct the sampling and log the borings consistent with current Caltrans procedures/requirements. At a minimum, we will sample at 5-foot intervals.

Four to five borings (up to 3 ft deep) will be advanced with hand auger equipment at the roadway widening. Bulk samples will be obtained from these borings for laboratory testing.

We will deliver the samples to the laboratory for strength and classification testing. Surface and groundwater conditions will be noted where encountered. Traffic control is expected to include shoulder closures and lane closures with flaggers. The borings will be backfilled per County requirements.

Crawford will complete the following laboratory tests on bulk and relatively undisturbed samples obtained from the exploratory borings (as appropriate):
• Moisture Content and Unit Weight;
• Unconfined Compression and/or Direct Shear testing;
• Sieve Analysis and Plasticity Index;
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• R-value;
• Resistivity, pH, Sulfate Content, and Chloride Content for soil corrosivity analysis; and • Expansion Index
Crawford will perform engineering analysis for bearing capacity and settlement, slope stability at retaining walls, equivalent fluid forces including passive and active earth pressures, site seismicity including, probabilistic procedures consistent with current Caltrans Seismic Design Criteria to determine the site acceleration response spectrum (ARS) and liquefaction potential; and pavement section recommendations (based on Traffic Index values and growth rates provided by the design team).

Crawford will prepare a GDR consistent with current Caltrans Standards for the earth retaining structures. The report will include: scope of work and project description; physical setting, including topography, drainage and regional/local geology; summary of subsurface soil and groundwater conditions; slope stability; corrosion evaluation; seismic evaluation consistent with current Caltrans ARS standards; laboratory test results; grading recommendations; foundation recommendations; equivalent fluid weight recommendations; construction considerations; Vicinity Map; Site Plan with boring locations; Boring logs and legend. Crawford will address one round of City and Caltrans comments before finalizing the report.

Crawford will prepare a Materials Report consistent with current Caltrans Standards for the roadway widening. The report will include: scope of work and project description; pavement analysis following CalME; and pavement recommendations. Crawford will address one round of City and Caltrans comments before finalizing the report.

Task 3.8. Design Standard Decision Document
Mark Thomas will identify the proposed geometric features that do not meet the Caltrans design standards described in the latest Highway Design Manual (HDM). The Design Information Bulletin (DIB) 78 checklist will be completed and design features not meeting current HDM standards will be documented in the DSDD. A total of three (3) submittals to Caltrans are assumed. It is assumed a minimal Highway Safety Analysis will be performed to support the non-standard feature approval as a part of the DSDD.

Task 3.9. Transportation Management Plan
Mark Thomas will develop a Transportation Management Plan (TMP) for the Project. We assume this Project will require a “Minor TMP” as defined by Caltrans Transportation Management Plan Guidelines (November 2015). This document will include a description of planned detours, rerouting, temporary closures, and full closures for State Route 116. We will include a discussion of any impacts to transit routes, school bus routes, emergency vehicle access, access to US 101, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities through the construction area. We anticipate lane closure charts will not be required as part of this effort since the project would be expected to provide a full lane of traffic in each direction with shoulders during construction.

Task 3.10. DEER Preparation
The Mark Thomas team will prepare a Design Engineering Evaluation Report (DEER) for submittal to Caltrans based on the latest template. The technical reports noted above will be attachments to the DEER and summarized in the body of the report. The DEER is a streamlined document that is anticipated to be no more than 10 pages long (not including attachments). Section in the report include:
• Introduction
• Background
• Purpose and Need
• Right of Way and Utilities
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• Traffic, Maintenance and Operations Impacts
• Proposed Scope of Work
• Structure Information
• Other Considerations as Appropriate
• Project Personnel
• Attachments
We anticipate the following attachments will be need to support the DEER:
• Vicinity Map
• Geometric Approval Drawings (35% plans)
• Stormwater Data Report
• Right of Way Data Sheet
• Environmental Document (CEQA only)
• Traffic Analysis
• Intersection Control Evaluation
• Initial Site Assessment
• Geotechnical Design and Materials Report
• Design Standard Decision Document
• Transportation Management Plan
• Construction Cost Estimate
We assume two rounds of review (with consolidated comments from functional units) from Caltrans before DEER approval.

TASK 3 DELIVERABLES:
• Geometric Approval Drawings (35% plan updates)
• Draft and Final SWDR
• Draft and Final Right of Way Data Sheet
• Traffic Analysis Updates
• Draft and Final ICE
• Draft and Final ISA
• Draft and Final GDMR
• Draft and Final DSDD
• Draft and Final TMP
• Draft and Final DEER
• All deliverables to be submitted in .pdf format unless specifically stated otherwise TASK 4. FINAL DESIGN
Task 4.1. Utility Coordination
Mark Thomas will Mark Thomas will use USA North and other tools to retrieve a list of utilities that may be affected by the project. Based on the list Mark Thomas will send out utility request letters ("A" letters). Mark Thomas will then create and update a utility matrix for the project to track the status of record requests. Provided mapping will be forwarded and the matrix will be provided 30 days after A letter. Mark Thomas will follow up once with utility companies that have not responded and provide additional mapping received 60 days after A letters.

Mark Thomas will take the provided utility mapping and compile it into a utility base map to facilitate design efforts.

Underground utility mark out and detection is excluded under this scope of work. Utilities will be drafted against base mapping schematically and updated once supplemental surveys are completed. Conflicts will be discussed with each utility provider, and proposed solutions/relocations will be discussed.

A Utility Conflict Exhibit will be prepared showing the proposed improvements and potential utility conflicts. This information will be used as the basis for the formal Utility Certification Process with approvals through Caltrans. It is 186 of 1574
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assumed a Utility Policy Variance Request (UPVR) will not be required. All utility relocation design will be provided by the utility companies and is not included in this scope of work.

Task 4.2. Right of Way Acquisition
As a part of the Mark Thomas team, Associated Right of Way Services, Inc. (AR/WS) will provide right of way services for the project. The subject properties are identified as:
• APN 144-050-004 City of Cotati (8214 GRAVENSTEIN HWY COTATI, CA 94931) • APN 144-050-005 JBP Investments Properties, Inc. (8356 GRAVENSTEIN HWY COTATI, CA 94931) We assume a land swap would occur between the City and the private property owner listed above. The acquisition from the private owner is assumed to be along the western-most corner of APN 144-050-005. The land swap would involve the City granting this owner the eastern-most corner of APN 144-050-004 and the acquisition will not result in damages to the remainder parcel. As the project is within SR 116 we assume the project is considered by Caltrans to be an “On-System” and will require Caltrans oversight, conformance to the Caltrans Right of Way Manual and Right of Way Certification. This means a final appraisal map and signed Certificate of Sufficiency will be provided prior to initiation of appraisal services, and we have budgeted 20 hours for coordination on the newly implemented Caltrans Real-Time Compliance Monitoring (RTCM).

Right of Way: AR/WS will provide Draft Right of Way Certification for approval by the City, in accordance with the Caltrans Right of Way Manual and submit supporting documentation along with the Right of Way Certification. Supporting documentation may include right of way contracts, Orders for Prejudgment Possession, diary notes, right of way sufficiency forms, Agreements for Possession and Use, and deeds.

Appraisal: AR/WS will prepare appraisals in accordance with California Eminent Domain Law; California Government Code Section 7260 et seq.; Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice requirements, except as jurisdictionally exempt; the Caltrans Right of Way Manual; and 49 CFR, Part 24. The owner or a designated representative will be invited by the appraiser to accompany him/her during the inspection of the property. Appraisals to be prepared in an Appraisal Report format in accordance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, Standard Rule 2-2 and are for the “Fair Market Value” of the properties as per California Code of Civil Procedure, Section 1263.320. In accordance with the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1263.330, the market value of the property acquired will not include consideration of any increase or decrease in the value of the property that is attributable to any of the following:
• The project for which the property is taken;
• The eminent domain proceeding in which the property is taken; • Any preliminary actions of the acquiring authority relating to the taking of the property.

If revisions are made to the property or assignment requirements during the appraisal process or upon completion of the report, appraisal time to address these revisions will be a supplemental service.

Appraisal Review: Appraisal review will be required and AR/WS proposes to subcontract with a qualified independent review appraiser for these services. Upon receiving appraisal reports, an office review of the reports using the various standards prescribed by the Federal and State Uniform Acts, Federal Highway Administration, Caltrans appraisal procedures, Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and the California Eminent Domain codes will be completed.

Review appraiser will provide comments to the appraiser for discussion and will communicate with the appraiser to clarify 187 of 1574
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potential issues and resolve problems. Upon satisfactory completion of the appraisal reports, an appraisal review report will be prepared.

Negotiations and Acquisitions: AR/WS will prepare acquisition documents. Said documents include, but are not limited to:
offer letter, summary statement pertaining to the acquisition of real property or an interest therein, purchase agreement, deed, and public acquisition brochure. AR/WS will initiate and maintain individual acquisition files. All acquisition documents to receive City’s written approval as to form prior to use in the field. Per Section 102 of the California Streets and Highways code a copy of the appraisal report will be provided to the property owner. Upon receipt of a signed Certificate of Sufficiency and approval of acquisition documents by the City, AR/WS will present a written offer and initiate negotiations.

AR/WS will present approved written offer to the property owner.

AR/WS will negotiate to acquire one partial acquisition identified by the City, as a part of a land swap between the property owner and the City. We are assuming there will be negotiations with 1 property owner. All discussions for the acquisition of property or an interest therein will be directed to result in the payment of just compensation. If settlement with owner is reached pursuant to the City approved appraisal or City approved administrative settlement, AR/WS will prepare a Memorandum of Settlement for transmittal to the City, reviewing the issues. This memorandum will require City’s written approval before implementation of any settlement agreement. AR/WS will make every reasonable effort to acquire property on behalf of the City expeditiously through agreement with its owner and to avoid litigation. This may necessitate greater levels of effort in the negotiations phase and, where appropriate, should continue after eminent domain has been initiated.

City will provide ongoing feedback to AR/WS as to authorization for settlements. AR/WS will establish a process of coordinating escrow closings and reviewing escrow instructions. Where there are escrow closings, preparation of escrow instructions will be completed by title company. Approval of conditions of title and escrow instructions, including but not limited to, “subject to” title exceptions, will be done by the City. If agreement with owner cannot be reached, AR/WS will advise the City that negotiations have reached an impasse. The City will consider scheduling of an action in eminent domain including the required public necessity hearing. AR/WS will provide condemnation support as needed and requested, budget allowing.

Task 4.3. Drainage Report
Mark Thomas will prepare a roadway drainage report in the form of a technical memo containing the required drainage report elements as required by Caltrans District 4 and submit it to the City and Caltrans for review. The report will include a delineation of existing and proposed drainage shed areas, calculations for proposed drainage conditions (based upon the Rational Method), and calculations for proposed pipe sizes, inlet locations, and outfall areas based upon proposed modifications to the existing drainage system within the project limits along SR 116 within Caltrans operating right of way.

This scope assumes that design storm tailwater Hydraulic Grade Line (HGL) information will be available from Caltrans.

Draft drainage calculations will be included with the 65% submittal and the draft and final drainage report will be submitted with the 95% and 100% submittals respectively. Mark Thomas will address and respond to comments received on each submittal. This scope assumes no trunk line drainage system modification will be required. It is assumed a preliminary drainage report is not required for DEER approval.

Task 4.4. Resource Agency Permitting & NEPA Coordination As a part of the Mark Thomas team, M-Group will lead the permitting and related environmental updates. M-Group will prepare environmental documentation for the project upon which Caltrans can rely for NEPA purposes. We will assist with assembling and submitting materials to Caltrans including completion of the Categorical Exclusion Checklist and the Preliminary Environmental Studies (PES) form. It is expected that the environmental documentation will support a Notice of Exclusion (NEPA CE). This Task includes coordination with the project team, technical specialists (as warranted), and Caltrans 188 of 1574
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Local Assistance, and submittal of environmental documents to Caltrans including the Exclusion Checklist and supporting materials.

M-Group anticipates that technical studies, which are identified below, will include biological and cultural resources and a tree inventory. M-Group routinely partners with Monk & Associates and Evans & De Shazo to perform biological and cultural resource evaluations, respectively. This task includes M-Group’s management and oversight of the technical studies to be performed by subconsultants.

Monk & Associates, Inc. (M&A) will complete the following tasks required to assist with acquisition of biological permits for the proposed project:
• Nationwide Permit (NWP) application package for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
• Biological Assessment (BA) for use by the Corps to facilitate Section 7 Endangered Species Act consultation and obtain an Incidental Take Permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). • Application for California Regional Water Quality Control Board Certification of Water Quality (RWQCB). • Alternatives Analysis to Support the RWQCB Application.

M&A would prepare a Preconstruction Notice (i.e., permit application package) as necessary to seek verification from the Corps that the project meets conditions necessary to use a Nationwide Permit (NWP). To be granted authorization under the NWP Program, the extent of project impacts to waters of the U.S. must remain below 0.5-acre.

Facilitate Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) Section 7 Consultation by and between the Corps and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: The USACE will require that a BA be prepared that would facilitate the Section 7 Consultation between the USACE and the USFWS. Impacts to and mitigation for suitable habitat for the California tiger salamander (CTS) (Sonoma County Distinct Population Segment) (Ambystoma californiense) and Sebastopol meadowfoam (Limnanthes vinculans), both being state and federally listed species, will be the challenging aspect of preparation of the BA. The BA will have to provide a mitigation plan that is satisfactory to the USFWS, and the USFWS will either have to issue a “non-jeopardy” Biological Opinion or append the project to the 2020 Programmatic Biological Opinion to the USACE prior to the time that the USACE can authorize a permit for the proposed project. Such a mitigation plan will likely entail the purchase of mitigation credits from a resource agency approved conservation bank(s). M&A will assist with locating CTS and rare plant mitigation credits from a suitable Conservation Bank for the project. It should be noted that the USFWS now requires mitigation credits to be purchased from Sebastopol meadowfoam Core Area or as approved by the USFWS. The conditions of the BO would then be incorporated by the Corps into its permit authorizing the project.

Pre-filing Meeting with the Corps and the RWQCB: Under regulations that became effective September 11, 2020, before submitting a request for a Section 401 Certification, a project applicant must request a pre-filing meeting at least 30 days prior to submitting the Section 401 Certification request. The RWQCB will determine if the meeting will be held or not, but it is required to submit the request.

RWQCB Application Package for Certification of Water Quality and/or Waste Discharge General Permit Applicability:

This application package cannot be submitted to the RWQCB until the project is fully approved by the City of Cotati pursuant to the CEQA. This task includes preparing and submitting an application to the RWQCB for a Clean Water Act Section 401 certification of water quality and for use of the SWRCB’s General Waste Discharge Requirements General Permit. Note that no Corps permit is operable without the Section 401 certification of water quality from the RWQCB. 189 of 1574
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Please note that the project Civil Engineer will be required to provide M&A with a PDF of the project’s Storm Water Low Impact Development Plan (SWLID). The RWQCB will insist that the SWLID meet the National Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) C3 National Pollutant Discharge Requirements. The project civil engineer is responsible for developing the SWLID.

The RWQCB will also require:
• 404(B)(1) alternatives analysis completed in accordance with federal guidelines (per Task 3 below), • Acceptable waters of the State compensatory mitigation proposal; and • Copy of the final documentation of CEQA compliance (that is, a CEQA Notice of Determination).

Preparation of an Alternatives Analysis Report to Support RWQCB Application: The Section 404(b)1 Guidelines prohibit all discharges of fill material into regulated waters of the United States (and now waters of the State), unless the discharge constitutes the least environmentally damaging practicable alternative (the “LEDPA”) that would achieve the basic and overall project purpose. As of May 28, 2020, the State Water Resources Control Board, which has control over all RWQCBs, has formally adopted the Clean Water Act 404(b)1 Guidelines heretofore previously only enforced by the USACE for projects exceeding 0.5-acre of impact or more than 300 lineal feet of impacts to drainage. The RWQCB requires that a Section 404(b)1 Alternatives Analysis (AA) be prepared and submitted with the 401 Certification of Water Quality Permit application when projects impact (even minimal) waters of the State. And, depending upon the scope/type of impact, they also may require a thorough discussion of onsite and offsite alternatives in line with the 404(b)1 Guidelines. This is clear upon review of both the Procedures and the Implementation Guidance which relies heavily on multiple references relating to the 404(b)1 process as long exercised by the USACE. However, the RWQCB AA does not depend on a half-acre threshold of impacts.

Rather, depending on the acreage of project impacts to waters of the State and the type of waters of the State (i.e., wetlands), the project falls into three different “tiers” and each tier level has different analysis requirements that must be followed. Unfortunately, these three tiers have extraordinarily low thresholds for impacts. The tiers run from Tier 3 (highest level) down to Tier 1 (lowest) and all tiers are explained in greater detail below. M&A’s efforts to prepare a RWQCB styled Alternatives Analysis will be tailored to the tier discussions below.

Tier 3 projects include any discharge of dredged or fill material that directly impacts more than two-tenths (0.2) of an acre or 300 linear feet of waters of the State, rare, threatened or endangered species habitat in waters of the State, wetlands or eel grass beds, or Outstanding National Resource Waters or Areas of Special Biological Significance and is not a project that inherently cannot be located at an alternate location. Tier 3 projects shall provide an analysis of off-site and on-site alternatives.

Tier 2 projects include any discharge of dredged or fill material that directly impacts more than one tenth (0.1) and less than or equal to two tenths (0.2) of an acre or more than and less than or equal to 300 linear feet of waters of the State unless it meets the criteria for a Tier 3 project, or for any project that inherently cannot be located at an alternate location (unless it meets the size requirements set forth in Tier 1). Tier 2 projects shall provide an analysis of only on-site alternatives. For routine operation and maintenance of existing facilities, analysis of on-site alternatives is limited to operation and maintenance alternatives for the proposed project.

Tier 1 projects include any discharge of dredged or fill material that directly impacts less than or equal to one tenth (0.1) of an acre or less than or equal to 100 linear feet of waters of the State, unless it meets the criteria for a Tier 3 project. Tier 1 projects shall provide a description of any steps that have been or will be taken to avoid and minimize loss of, or significant adverse impacts to, beneficial uses of waters of the State.

M&A believes that the project will be Tier 2 due to the fact that, while there are wetlands which will be impacted as part of the project, the project inherently cannot be relocated.
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Evans and De Shazo (EDS) will prepare Area of Potential Effect (APE) maps, a Historic Property Survey Report (HPSR), Archaeological Survey Report (ASR), and, if required, an Historic Resources Evaluation Report (HRER) in accordance with Caltrans requirements to assist in complying with applicable federal and state laws regarding cultural resources, including Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and CEQA for the project. EDS will utilize the previous NWIC record search, literature review, Sacred Lands Inventory, results of the outreach to local tribes and historical societies, and pedestrian field survey to complete the required ASR and HPSR for the Project.

Task 4.5. Maintenance Agreement Support
Mark Thomas will provide support to the City to obtain a Freeway Maintenance Agreement with Caltrans for the SR 116. We will prepare one exhibit for the corridor along SR-116 that will be used an as attachment (Exhibit A) to the Freeway Maintenance Agreement. The exhibit should also be able to be used for the Electrical Maintenance Agreement that will be required for the new signal at SR-116 and West Cotati Avenue.

Task 4.6. Landscape Concept Plan
Mark Thomas will identify key aesthetic features, and green infrastructure opportunities within the project limits and explore options with the City to refine these design features. Through this effort, we will coordinate the drainage features for appropriate strategies that will be required to meet stormwater treatment requirements. This task will include preparation of one landscape concept plan. The landscape concept plan will include aesthetic inspiration photos to assist in developing placemaking and green infrastructure opportunities. The landscape concept plan will show tree placement and ground plane massings on up to two sheets. The landscape concept plan will be color-rendered and will include a recommended plant palette. City comments will be incorporated into the final plan and will be approved before 65% design begins.

Task 4.7. 65% PS&E
Mark Thomas will prepare 65% PS&E consistent with the Caltrans Project Development Procedures Manual, Drafting Standards, and Highway Design Manual as well as City standards, design criteria and other codes as appropriate for a locally sponsored, funded encroachment permit project utilizing the Caltrans DEER Process as described above. At each development stage of the PS&E, plans will include the preparation of the following roadway, structure and electrical engineering plans with associated sheet count.

Sheet Count Sheet Type
1 Title
3 Typical Sections
1 Project Control Diagram
1 Key Map
2 Layouts
6 Construction Details
2 Retaining Wall Plans and Details
2 Temporary Water Pollution Control Plans and Details
2 Drainage Plan
2 Drainage Profiles
3 Drainage Details
1 Drainage Quantities
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2 Utility Plan
2 Utility Details
4 Stage Construction
4 Traffic Handling
1 Construction Area Signs
2 Pavement Delineation and Sign Plans
1 Sign Quantities
6 Electrical Plans and Details
16 Landscape and Irrigation Plans and Details
2 Summary of Quantities
66 Total
Roadway and Landscape Plans: Task shall include updating the existing 35% plans and creating and developing plan details not included in the 35% submittal. Tasks shall include preparation of all plans as described above except electrical plans.

Electrical/Signal Plans: As a part of the Mark Thomas team, F&P will develop traffic signal and lighting plans for the new traffic signal and pathway lighting. Using topographic survey and basemapping, we will develop a signal design plan and lighting plans using Caltrans plan format. Our 65% design plans will show locations of proposed above ground signal and electrical equipment using Caltrans standard symbology. We anticipate developing our plans using proposed roadway design files as a basis for our work. Our 65% signal plans will depict the following elements:
• Location and type of proposed traffic signal poles, signal heads, detectors, pull boxes, conduits, conductors, and traffic signal cabinet
• Proposed signal phasing diagram
• Proposed pedestrian traffic signal equipment
• Locations of existing and proposed intersection/crosswalk safety lighting (connected to the traffic signal system)
• Existing and proposed traffic signal interconnect equipment The conduit and conductor schedule and itemized engineer’s estimate will not be completed for this submittal. It is assumed that the proposed traffic signal plans will not require custom foundation design.

Our lighting plans will depict the location and type of proposed pathway lighting, proposed locations to establish service, pull boxes, conduits, and service equipment enclosure(s). The conduit and conductor schedule and itemized engineer’s estimate will not be completed for this submittal. 65% Specifications: The Mark Thomas team shall prepare 65% technical specifications. Technical specifications shall be prepared as special provisions using Caltrans 2024 Standard Specifications format and will be draft specifications at the 65% submittal stage. Mark Thomas shall utilize Caltrans standard special provisions (SSPs) except where they are unavailable or when the City provides alternative standard special provisions. Specification edits shall not follow Caltrans Office Engineer editing format (i.e. Caltrans editing macros and hidden text). No justification or approvals for non-conforming edits will be provided (i.e. no NSSP approvals shall be required or sought). 192 of 1574
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65% Quantities and Estimate: Using Caltrans standard bid items and measurement quantities, the Mark Thomas team shall quantify the required bid item quantities for elements of work shown on the 65% plans and as specified in the 65% special provisions. Unit bid price estimates will be based upon appropriate recently published bid prices as posted on Caltrans website and other recent, relevant local agency project bids.

Task 4.8. 95% PS&E
The Mark Thomas team will prepare 95% PS&E as a checked, detailed, complete set of plans, technical specifications and estimate. Mark Thomas shall provide responses to 65% comments and attend a comment review/ resolution meeting at the outset of the 95% PS&E task.

Review and respond to 65% Comments: The Mark Thomas team will review, respond and resolve comments received from City, Caltrans and other approving/ commenting agencies on the 65% submittal. 95% Roadway and Landscape Plans: Task shall include updating 65% and incorporating comments received, checking details and further developing unresolved details or design issues not resolved as part of the 65% submittal. Tasks shall include preparation of all plans as described above except electrical plans. 95% Electrical/Signal Plans: F&P will revise the 65% plans and prepare the traffic signal plans and special provisions as part of the 95% PS&E.
95% Specifications: The Mark Thomas team shall prepare 95% technical specifications by editing and revising the 65% technical specifications.
95% Quantities and Estimate: The Mark Thomas team shall prepare an independent quantity calculation takeoff based upon the 95% plans and specifications. Mark Thomas shall maintain a hard copy record of the 95% quantity calculations. Mark Thomas will update unit prices as appropriate.

Task 4.9. 100% PS&E
The Mark Thomas team will prepare 100% PS&E as a draft final set of bid ready, complete bid documents. The Mark Thomas team shall provide responses to comments and attend a comment review/resolution meeting at the outset of the 100% PS&E task.

Review and Respond to 95% Comments: The Mark Thomas team will review, respond and resolve comments received from the City, Caltrans and other approving/commenting agencies on the 95% submittal. 100% Plans, Technical Specifications, Quantities and Estimate: Task shall include updating the 95% PS&E, incorporating comments received. The Mark Thomas team shall prepare an independent quantity calculation takeoff based upon the 100% plans and specifications. The Mark Thomas team will update unit prices as appropriate.

This scope assumes that Mark Thomas will provide the City a complete set of technical specifications only for incorporation into the City’s boilerplate bid and other front end documents.

Task 4.10. Bid Documents
The Mark Thomas team will prepare Bid Documents as a set of bid ready, complete documents. 193 of 1574
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Review and respond to 100% Comments: The Mark Thomas team will review, respond and resolve comments received from the City, Caltrans and other approving/commenting agencies on the 100% submittal.

Update Final Plans, Technical Specifications, Quantities and Estimate: The Mark Thomas team will update the 100% plans, specifications and estimate, incorporating comments received. Mark Thomas shall verify the final bid quantities and perform independent spot checks of quantities based upon the 100% plans and specifications. Mark Thomas will update unit prices as appropriate.

TASK 4 DELIVERABLES:
• Utility Coordination (ABC Process)
• Draft and Final Right of Way Certification
• Draft and Final Appraisal Report
• Draft and Final Appraisal Review Report and Certification • Draft and Final Acquisition Documents
• Memorandum of Settlement and Signed Agreement (upon settlement) • Negotiation Impasse Notice (if needed)
• Nationwide Permit (NWP) application, USACE - Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. • Biological Assessment (BA), USACE Section 7 Endangered Species Act consultation w/USFWS • California RWQCB Certification of Water Quality application • Alternatives Analysis for RWQCB application.
• Draft and Final Preliminary Environmental Studies (PES) form • Draft and Final Area of Potential Effect (APE) maps
• Draft and Final Historic Property Survey Report (HPSR) • Draft and Final Archaeological Survey Report (ASR)
• Draft and Final Historic Resources Evaluation Report (HRER) if required • Draft and Final FMA Exhibit A
• Draft and Final Landscape Concept Plan
• 65% PS&E
• 95% PS&E
• 100% PS&E
• Bid Documents
• All deliverables to be submitted in .pdf format unless specifically stated otherwise TASK 5. BID SUPPORT
Task 5.1. Design Support During Bidding
The Mark Thomas Team will attend the pre-bid meeting and be available to answer questions during the bidding process as well as prepare addenda as necessary. After bids have been received by the City, the Mark Thomas Team will assist in bid review and analyzation and make a recommendation regarding the award of the construction contract. This task will be billed on a time and materials basis up to the budget provided as an accurate estimate of the work involved cannot be determined at this time.

TASK 5 DELIVERABLES:
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• Responses to bidder RFI’s and addendums as necessary
• All deliverables to be submitted in .pdf format unless specifically stated otherwise

ASSUMPTIONS & EXCLUSIONS
• A cooperative agreement between the City and Caltrans is not required • SR 116 in the project area is considered a rural, conventional highway • Caltrans project approval will come through the DEER process and not full project development • Datum or unit conversion of base mapping, as-builts, and centerlines are not included • Any reports not specifically noted in this scope of work are not included • CEQA clearance will be completed by the City under separate contract and provided to the project team • NEPA clearance will be completed through Caltrans Local Assistance after DEER approval • Resource Agency permit fees will be paid directly by the City • No special-status species (e.g., threatened or endangered species) need to be surveyed • Construction monitoring for mitigation or habitat impacts is not included • The project will utilize local funds for design and use a blend of local and federal funds for construction • Non-standard retaining walls or bridges will not be utilized • Caltrans will provide access to the CalMe software
• Assessment and rehabilitation of existing pavement is not included in this scope • A preliminary drainage report is not required for the DEER • A Caltrans Utility Policy Variance Request (UPVR) is not required • Design Support during Construction (DSDC) is not included in the scope but will be added a later date when the construction of the project is awarded to a contractor • Community outreach and/or engagement is not required
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Sr. Engineering
ManagerProject ManagerProject EngineerDesign Engineer IILAUD Division ManagerLAUD Project ManagerLandscape ArchitectLandscape Designer IILandscape Designer ISurvey Manager IIProject Surveyor IIIProject Surveyor IIAsst Surveyor IISurvey Technician II2-Person Crew (OE3)Project AccountantSr. Project CoordinatorFehr & PeersM GroupCrawford & Associates, Inc.Associated Right of Way Services
Sub MarkUp
$475 $314 $223 $200 $313 $259 $186 $161 $126 $305 $288 $246 $176 $161 $405 $178 $199 5%

1.0 Project Management

1.1 Project Management and Administration 18 36 18 36 108 $30,195 - - - - $0 $30,195

1.2 Meetings and Coordination 18 72 15 3 108 $35,580 - - - - $0 $35,580

1.3 Project Schedule 12 12 24 $8,085 - - - - $0 $8,085

1.4 Quality Management Plan 4 40 40 2 86 $23,975 - - - - $0 $23,975 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $1,000 - - - - $1,000
Subtotal Phase 1 52 148 40 0 2 15 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 18 48 326 $98,835 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $98,835

2.0 Surveys and Mapping

2.1 Aerial Mapping (ABC) 24 32 24 80 $19,430 - - - - $0 $19,430

2.2 Base Map 16 32 24 10 2 84 $21,438 - - - - $0 $21,438

2.3 Appraisal Maps 24 40 40 104 $24,220 - - - - $0 $24,220

2.4 Legal Descriptions and Plats 8 16 6 24 54 $11,308 - - - - $0 $11,308

2.5 Record Right of Way Map 8 16 40 64 $13,430 - - - - $0 $13,430

2.6 Record of Survey 24 40 80 10 2 156 $37,368 - - - - $0 $37,368

2.7 Supplemental Topo 2 8 4 10 40 50 16 130 $35,200 - - - - $0 $35,200

2.8 Potholing 2 8 4 16 16 20 4 70 $17,853 - - - - $0 $17,853 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $39,412 - - - - $39,412
Subtotal Phase 2 0 4 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 104 48 136 240 80 90 0 24 742 $219,657 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $219,657

3.0 Caltrans DEER

3.1 Geometric Approval Drawings (35% Plans) 4 16 24 40 84 $20,260 - - - - $0 $20,260

3.2 Stormwater Data Report 2 24 40 40 106 $25,380 - - - - $0 $25,380

3.3 Right of Way Data Sheet 4 16 16 36 $8,015 - - - - $0 $8,015

3.4 Traffic Analysis Updates 4 8 12 $4,410 2,500 - - - $125 $7,035

3.5 Intersection Control Evaluation 4 4 8 $3,155 20,000 - - $1,000 $24,155

3.6 Initial Site Assessment 2 4 8 14 $3,985 - - 19,000 - $950 $23,935

3.7 Geotechnical Design and Materials Report 2 4 8 14 $3,985 - - 53,000 - $2,650 $59,635

3.8 Design Standard Decision Document 8 24 40 40 112 $28,230 35,000 - - - $1,750 $64,980

3.9 Transportation Management Plan 4 16 20 $4,815 20,000 - - - $1,000 $25,815

3.10 DEER Preparation 8 40 40 40 128 $33,250 15,000 - - - $750 $49,000 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $0 - - - - $0
Subtotal Phase 3 34 132 192 176 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 534 $135,485 $92,500 $0 $72,000 $0 $8,225 $308,210

4.0 Final Design

4.1 Utility Coordination 2 24 40 40 106 $25,380 - - - - $0 $25,380

4.2 Right of Way Acquisition 4 4 8 16 $4,935 - - - 45,000 $2,250 $52,185

4.3 Drainage Report 16 40 40 96 $21,920 - - - - $0 $21,920

4.4 Resource Agency Permitting & NEPA Coordination 4 4 8 40 56 $12,935 - 79,000 - - $3,950 $95,885

4.5 Maintenance Agreement Support 4 16 20 $4,815 - - - - $0 $4,815

4.6 Landscape Concept Plan 4 16 40 40 40 140 $24,340 - - - - $0 $24,340

4.7 65% PS&E 16 40 80 160 2 14 36 120 80 548 $110,353 17,500 - - - $875 $128,728

4.8 95% PS&E 16 40 80 160 2 14 36 90 60 498 $102,990 12,500 - - - $625 $116,115

4.9 100% PS&E 8 24 40 40 1 4 12 30 20 179 $39,175 5,000 - - - $250 $44,425

4.10 Bid Documents 4 16 40 40 1 4 12 30 20 167 $34,765 2,500 - - - $125 $37,390 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $0 $0
Subtotal Phase 4 54 172 352 520 10 52 136 310 220 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1826 $381,608 $37,500 $79,000 $0 $45,000 $8,075 $551,183

5.0 Bid Support

5.1 Design Support During Bidding 4 8 16 16 44 $11,170 1,500 - - - $75 $12,745 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $0 - - - - $0
Subtotal Phase 5 4 8 16 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44 $11,170 $1,500 $0 $0 $0 $75 $12,745 TOTAL HOURS 144 464 616 712 12 67 139 310 220 104 48 136 240 80 90 18 72 3472 0 0 0 0 Anticipated Salary Increases (2% for 2 years) $16,127 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $16,127 OTHER DIRECT COSTS $40,412 $0 $0 $0 $0 $40,412
TOTAL COST $68,400 $145,580 $137,060 $142,400 $3,750 $17,336 $25,889 $49,988 $27,775 $31,720 $13,800 $33,490 $42,300 $12,900 $36,450 $3,195 $14,310 $862,881 $131,500 $79,000 $72,000 $45,000 $16,375 $1,206,756

TOTAL COST
COST PROPOSAL FOR PROJECT SCOPE - City of Cotati: SR 116 & West Cotati Total MT
Cost
Mark Thomas
Total
Hours
Subconsultants
Please note that the rates shown are for estimating purposes only. See rate schedule for actual rates/ranges.

MT Fee (A-1 Rates)
9/5/2024
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Engineering Surveying
Intern $65 - $110 Survey Technician I-III $65 - $185
Technician $95 - $135 Lead Survey Technician $145 - $165 Design Engineer I $125 - $175 Survey Specialist I-III $135 - $280 Design Engineer II $140 - $220 Asst Surveyor I-III $140 - $200 Sr. Technician $160 - $215 Project Surveyor I-III $200 - $305 Civil Engineering Designer $170 - $260 * Chief of Party $205 - $255 Project Engineer $170 - $240 * Instrumentperson $205 - $230 Sr. Project Engineer $210 - $300 * Chainperson $205 - $215 Sr. Technical Engineer $220 - $245 * Apprentice $130 - $185 Technical Lead $245 - $300 * 2-Person Crew $375 - $455
Sr. Technical Lead $285 - $355 * 3-Person Crew $570 - $675 Design Manager $365 - $405 * Utility Locator $190 - $250 Engineering Manager $365 - $405 Drone $275
Sr. Engineering Manager $370 - $495
Project Management & Oversight
Construction Management Project Manager $250 - $335
Office Engineer $170 - $270 Sr. Project Manager $280 - $380 * Asst. Resident Engineer $240 - $270 Survey Manager I-II $240 - $410 * Inspector - CM $195 - $275 SUE Program Manager $285 - $315 Resident Engineer $310 - $345 Division Manager $290 - $420 Sr. Resident Engineer $350 - $385 Principal $480 - $520 Area Manager - CM $270 - $305
Project Support
Planning Technical/Sr. Technical Writer $120 - $160
Planner I $110 - $140 Project/Sr. Project Assistant $85 - $175 Planner II $155 - $175 Project/Sr. Project Coordinator $130 - $215 Sr. Planner $170 - $235 Graphic/Sr. Graphic Designer $135 - $235 Project Accountant $125 - $195
Landscape Architecture/Urban Design Sr. Graphic Manager $215 - $275 Landscape Intern $90 - $105 Project Accountant Manager $225 - $255 Landscape Designer I $115 - $130
Landscape Designer II $135 - $170 District Management
Landscape Architect $160 - $195 * Inspector - Apprentice $95 - $110 Sr. Landscape Architect $185 - $210 * Inspector/Sr. Inspector $110 - $195 Assistant/Associate Sanitary Engineer $160 - $235
Grant Writing Sanitary/Sr. Sanitary Project Engineer $210 - $300 Funding Specialist $140 - $255 Operations/Deputy District Manager $270 - $385 Sr. Funding Specialist $260 - $305 District Manager-Engineer $395 - $440 Funding Manager $335 - $390
Special Services
Expert Witness $520
Strategic Consulting $520
MARK THOMAS & COMPANY, INC. RATE SCHEDULE
EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2025
Reimbursables including, but not limited to; reproductions, delivery and filing fees; outside consultant fees; and survey field expenses will be billed at Cost Plus 5% . Mileage will be billed per current IRS Rate.

Additional promotional steps exist within various rate categories.

This rate schedule expires June 30, 2025; rates are subject to escalation with new hourly rate schedule as of July 1, 2025. * These charge rates are subject to Prevailing Wage laws and Union contract.

RATE SCHEDULE (A-1) | PAGE 2 OF 2
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ID %
Comp
Task Name Duration Start Finish Predecessors
1 0% SR 116 & West Cotati Avenue Improvements 380 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 3/3/26 2 0% Kick off Meeting 0 days Wed 9/18/24 Wed 9/18/24
3 0% Task 1 - Project Management 100 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 2/4/25 2 4 0% Task 2 - Surveys and Mapping 380 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 3/3/26 5 0% 2.1 Aerial Mapping (ABC) 60 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 12/10/24 2 6 0% 2.2 Base Map 60 days Wed 12/11/24 Tue 3/4/25 5
7 0% 2.3 Appraisal Maps 20 days Wed 4/2/25 Tue 4/29/25 31FF,6 8 0% 2.4 Legal Descriptions and Plats 20 days Wed 6/11/25 Tue 7/8/25 7FS+30 days 9 0% 2.5 Record Right of Way Map 60 days Wed 10/15/25 Tue 1/6/26 26FF,7 10 0% 2.6 Record of Survey (after construction) 0 days Tue 3/3/26 Tue 3/3/26 9,36FF 11 0% 2.7 Supplemental Topo 30 days Wed 1/22/25 Tue 3/4/25 5,31SS 12 0% 2.8 Potholing 30 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 6/10/25 31
13 0% Task 3 - Caltrans DEER 160 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 4/29/25 14 0% 3.1 Geometric Approval Drawings (35% Plans) 40 days Wed 1/8/25 Tue 3/4/25 20 15 0% 3.2 Stormwater Data Report 60 days Wed 12/11/24 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 16 0% 3.3 Right of Way Data Sheet 40 days Wed 1/8/25 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 17 0% 3.4 Traffic Analysis Updates 30 days Wed 1/22/25 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 18 0% 3.5 Intersection Control Evaluation 30 days Wed 1/22/25 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 19 0% 3.6 Initial Site Assessment 60 days Wed 10/16/24 Tue 1/7/25 20FF 20 0% 3.7 Geotechnical Design and Materials Report 80 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 1/7/25 2 21 0% 3.8 Design Standard Decision Document 60 days Wed 12/11/24 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 22 0% 3.9 Transportation Management Plan 30 days Wed 1/22/25 Tue 3/4/25 14FF 23 0% 3.10 DEER Preparation 60 days Wed 2/5/25 Tue 4/29/25 14FS-20 days 24 0% Task 4 - Final Design 380 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 3/3/26 25 0% 4.1 Utility Coordination 180 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 1/6/26 31 26 0% 4.2 Right of Way Acquisition 180 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 1/6/26 31,8FF 27 0% 4.3 Drainage Report 30 days Wed 3/19/25 Tue 4/29/25 31FF 28 0% 4.4 Resource Agency Permitting & NEPA Coord 180 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 1/6/26 31 29 0% 4.5 Maintenance Agreement Support 90 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 9/2/25 31 30 0% 4.6 Landscape Concept Plan 60 days Wed 9/18/24 Tue 12/10/24 2 31 0% 4.7 65% PS&E 70 days Wed 1/22/25 Tue 4/29/25 23FF,30 32 0% 4.8 95% PS&E 90 days Wed 4/30/25 Tue 9/2/25 31,11,12FF 33 0% 4.9 100% PS&E 70 days Wed 9/3/25 Tue 12/9/25 32
34 0% 4.10 Bid Documents 60 days Wed 12/10/25 Tue 3/3/26 33,25FF,26FF,28FF,29FF 35 0% Task 5 - Bid Support 0 days Tue 3/3/26 Tue 3/3/26 36 0% 5.1 Design Support During Bidding 0 days Tue 3/3/26 Tue 3/3/26 34 9/18
3/3
3/3
3/3
Aug '24 Sep '24 Oct '24 Nov '24 Dec '24 Jan '25 Feb '25 Mar '25 Apr '25 May '25 Jun '25 Jul '25 Aug '25 Sep '25 Oct '25 Nov '25 Dec '25 Jan '26 Feb '26 Mar '26 Apr '26 May '26 City of Cotati - SR 116 & West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements September 5, 2024
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ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183
Highway 116/West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety
Improvements Project
LEAD AGENCY:

CITY OF COTATI

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
201 WEST SIERRA AVENUE
COTATI, CA 94931
CONTACT:

CRAIG SCOTT

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER

PREPARED BY

METROPOLITAN PLANNING GROUP
499 HUMBOLDT STREET, SANTA ROSA, CA 95404
JUNE 2024
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City of Cotati
West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment i CEQA Analysis

WEST COTATI AVENUE RE-ALIGNMENT
Project Title: Highway 116/West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements Project Lead Agency: City of Cotati: Community Development Department 201 West Sierra Avenue
Cotati, CA 94931
Contact Person: Craig Scott
Public Works Director/City Engineer
707 665-3620
Project Location: Approximately 1,900 linear feet along State Route 116/Gravenstein Highway between Redwood Drive and 500 feet west of Alder Avenue and West Cotati Avenue between Gillman Road and Highway 116 in the City of Cotati, Sonoma County, California.

APNs: 144-050-004, 144-050-005, 144-050-009, 046-286-018, 046- 286-019 , 144-100-ROW, 144-110-ROW, 999-999-ROW
Project Sponsor(s): City of Cotati
201 West Sierra Avenue
Cotati, CA 94931
Property Owner(s): W. Cotati Avenue ROW, SR116 ROW and 144-050-004 City of Cotati
201 West Sierra Avenue
Cotati, CA 94931
144-050-005
JBP Investments
Properties Inc.
170 Hegenberger Loop
Oakland CA 94621
046-286-018 and -019
Cotati Commons
Marketplace LLC
PO Box 678
Vestal NY 13851
144-050-009
Tom Monahan
Cotati Commons
1101 5th Ave Ste 300
San Rafael CA 94901
General Plan Designation: SR 116 and W. Cotati Ave. Right of Ways and General Commercial Zoning: SR 116 and W. Cotati Ave. Right of Ways and Commercial General – Gravenstein Corridor
Description of Project: The Project proposes improvements to State Route 116 Gravenstein Highway (SR 116) to provide road safety and traffic management including additional turn lanes, bike and pedestrian facilities, and a raised median from Redwood Drive to
approximately 500 feet west of Alder Avenue. The Project includes the realignment of West Cotati Avenue, signalization, addition of dedicated turn lanes, construction of a Class 1 bike and pedestrian 201 of 1574
City of Cotati
West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment ii CEQA Analysis path and associated pedestrian/bike safety upgrades.

Surrounding land uses and
setting; briefly describe the
Project’s surroundings:

The proposed Project along SR-116 is surrounded by parcels zoned for commercial uses. Existing commercial activities include building supply stores, a cannabis dispensary, retail and office land use and restaurants. Additionally, the southern extent of the Project along West Cotati Ave. is adjacent to residential development. Two mixed use residential projects are proposed and are under review on the adjacent parcels to the north of the Project. The Cotati Village Community Two would construct 126 residential units and the Redwood Row project would construct 168 residential units. The Cotati Village Community Project has been approved and proposes to construct 177 units.

Other public agencies whose
approval is required:

California Department of Transportation
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board
California Native American
tribes traditionally and
culturally affiliated with the
Project area that have
requested consultation:

The City of Cotati notified California Native American Tribes in accordance with Public Resources Code §21080.3.1. Notice was sent to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria by email and physical mailer on July 20, 2023. The City did not receive a response from the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria requesting to enter into consultation.
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City of Cotati
West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment iii CEQA Analysis Highway 116/West Cotati Avenue Intersection Safety Improvements Project

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 1

1.1. OVERVIEW OF CEQA ANALYSIS.............................................................................................................1

1.2. PURPOSE AND SUMMARY OF THIS CEQA DOCUMENT ....................................................................1

1.3. PUBLIC REVIEW PROCESS .....................................................................................................................1

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................. 2

2.1. PROJECT LOCATION...............................................................................................................................2

2.2. PROJECT BACKGROUND........................................................................................................................2

2.3. EXISTING CONDITIONS..........................................................................................................................5

2.4. GENERAL PLAN AND INFRASTRUCTURE .............................................................................................6

2.5. PROJECT DESCRIPTION..........................................................................................................................7

3. RELEVANT CITY PLANNING DOCUMENTS.................................................................................. 18

4. APPLICABLE CEQA PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS....................................................................... 21

4.1. GENERAL PLAN/COMMUNITY PLAN EXEMPTION (CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183) ............22

4.2. APPLICABILITY OF THE PROJECT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183.....................................22

4.3. CEQA DETERMINATION AND SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ..................................................................24

5. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ............................................................................ 25

5.1. AESTHETICS...........................................................................................................................................27

5.2. AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY RESOURCES ..................................................................................31

5.3. AIR QUALITY..........................................................................................................................................34

5.4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES....................................................................................................................43

5.5. CULTURAL RESOURCES.......................................................................................................................54

5.6. ENERGY .................................................................................................................................................59

5.7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS..........................................................................................................................62

5.8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ..........................................................................................................67

5.9. HAZARDS/HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ..................................................................................................72

5.10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY ..................................................................................................79

5.11. LAND USE AND PLANNING.................................................................................................................85

5.12. MINERAL RESOURCES .........................................................................................................................88

5.13. NOISE.....................................................................................................................................................89

5.14. POPULATION AND HOUSING.............................................................................................................94

5.15. PUBLIC SERVICES .................................................................................................................................97

5.16. RECREATION .........................................................................................................................................99

5.17. TRANSPORTATION............................................................................................................................ 101

5.18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES....................................................................................................... 110

5.19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS ................................................................................................... 114

5.20. WILDFIRE............................................................................................................................................ 117

5.21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ................................................................................... 120

6. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS .......................................................................................................... 123 203 of 1574
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6.1. TECHNICAL APPENDICES ................................................................................................................. 123

6.2. OTHER DOCUMENTS REFERENCED ................................................................................................ 123

7. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL ...................................................................... 125

FIGURES
FIGURE 1: REGIONAL LOCATION ....................................................................................................................12 FIGURE 2: PROJECT VICINITY.........................................................................................................................13 FIGURE 3: GENERAL PLAN LAND USE............................................................................................................14 FIGURE 4: ZONING ........................................................................................................................................15 FIGURE 5: SITE INTERSECTION DESIGN ..........................................................................................................16 FIGURE 6: SCHOOLS WITHIN ¼ MILE OF THE W. COTATI/SR-116 REALIGNMENT PROJECT ..............................76 TABLES
TABLE 5.3.1 AIR QUALITY SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLDS ...................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

TABLE 5.3.2 CONSTRUCTION PERIOD EMISSIONS ...........................................................................................39 TABLE 5.8.2: GHG EMISSION FORECASTS .....................................................................................................68 TABLE 5.17.1 INTERSECTION LEVEL OF SERVICE ..........................................................................................105 204 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment v CEQA Analysis

ACRONMYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

APN ASSESSOR PARCEL NUMBERS

BAAQMD BAY AREA AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

BMP BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE

CCR CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS

CDFW CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

CEQA CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT

CNEL COMMUNITY NOISE EQUIVALENT LEVEL

CNPS CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY

CRHR CALIFORNIA REGISTER OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES

CRPUSD COTATI-ROHNERT PARK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

CTS CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDER
dBA A-WEIGHTED DECIBEL

DPM DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER

DPR DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

DTSC DEPARTMENT OF TOXIC SUBSTANCE CONTROL

EIR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT

GHG GREENHOUSE GAS
gpd GALLONS PER DAY

LID LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT

LWWTP LAGUNA WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

MBTA MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT

NPDES NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM

NAHC NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION

NHPA NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT

NRHP NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

NWIC NORTHWEST INFORMATION CENTER

OEHHA CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH HAZARDS ASSESSMENT

PPV PEAK PARTICLE VELOCITY

PRC PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE

RCPA REGIONAL CLIMATE PROTECTION AGENCY

ROG REACTIVE ORGANIC GAS

RWQCB REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD

SCH STATE CLEARINGHOUSE

SRPCS SANTA ROSA PLAIN CONSERVATION STRATEGY

SWPPP STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN

SWRCB STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD

UST UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK

UWMP URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
µG/M3 MICROGRAMS PER CUBIC METER
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West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment vi CEQA Analysis [PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
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West Cotati Avenue/Highway 116 Realignment Page 1 of 136 CEQA Analysis

1. INTRODUCTION
This California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Analysis evaluates consistencies with the City’s General Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR) to identify any new or more significant impacts from the Project.

1.1. OVERVIEW OF CEQA ANALYSIS
This CEQA Analysis has been prepared by the City of Cotati, as the lead agency in full accordance with the procedural and substantive requirements of CEQA, CEQA Guidelines, and the City of Cotati local CEQA provisions.

This CEQA Analysis uses CEQA Guidelines Sections 15183, which provides a streamlined review of the project by tiering from the program level analysis prepared for the Cotati General Plan and its certified Environmental Impact Report (EIR), thereby focusing the analysis to potential impacts of the project relative to the impacts analyzed in the program level EIR. Section 15183 of the CEQA Guidelines mandates that projects which are determined to be consistent with the development density established by existing zoning, community plan, or general plan policies for which an EIR was certified shall not require additional environmental review, except as might be necessary to examine whether there are project-specific significant effects which are peculiar to the project or its site. The analysis provided herein relies upon the program level analysis prepared for the 2013 City of Cotati General Plan and its EIR (SCH No. 2013082037), which was certified in 2015. This CEQA Analysis describes the Project and its environmental setting, including the project site’s existing conditions and applicable regulatory requirements, and provides an assessment of the project’s consistency with the City of Cotati General Plan. All General Plan policies adopted as mitigation apply to the Project as described herein.

1.2. PURPOSE AND SUMMARY OF THIS CEQA DOCUMENT
The purpose of this document is to evaluate environmental effects of the Project under CEQA. This document considers the specific environmental effects of the Project as proposed and whether such impacts were adequately addressed in the 2013 City of Cotati General Plan EIR (General Plan EIR). The Project is required to incorporate or comply with all applicable mitigation measures identified in the General Plan EIR, uniformly applied development standards, and environmental conditions of approval. Section 7 of this document contains environmental conditions of approval imposed on the Project to ensure implementation of mitigation measures from the General Plan EIR which have been identified to avoid, reduce, or offset potential environmental impacts. As presented herein, the Project is identified in the City’s 2013 General Plan and as conditioned through this process, is consistent with the General Plan and its certified EIR and qualifies for a General Plan Exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.

1.3. PUBLIC REVIEW PROCESS
Two public workshops with the City of Cotati Planning Commission were held for the Project. On June 19, 2023, Fehr and Peers presented the Project to the Cotati Planning Commission, acting in their capacity as the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee at a noticed public meeting This presentation was received by the Committee and interested community members, each of whom provided input on the project scope and conceptual design. Direction received in this meeting and subsequently from city staff allowed the consultant to proceed with the 35% engineered plans which were completed on April 21, 2024.
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 2 of 136 CEQA Analysis The Project has been analyzed pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 and does not require circulation for public review and comment. Nonetheless the City will continue to make the Project design and this CEQA Analysis available through a public process, which requires approval from the City Council for the design, engineering, and construction of the preferred alignment for State Route 116 and West Cotati Avenue Realignment.

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1. PROJECT LOCATION
The City of Cotati is in central Sonoma County along the Highway 101 corridor approximately 8 miles south of Santa Rosa and 40 miles north of San Francisco. It is situated in the southern region of Sonoma County in a low-lying topographical area known as the Santa Rosa Plain. The city has a population of approximately 7,5841 within approximately 1,217 acres of City-incorporated land.

The Project site includes a section of State Route 116 West Gravenstein Highway (SR-116) and an intersection section of West Cotati Avenue in the City of Cotati, in the County of Sonoma. 1 US Census Bureau, City of Cotati, https://data.census.gov/cedsci/all?q=cotati, accessed May 23, 2022 208 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 3 of 136 CEQA Analysis Figure 1: Regional Location). Specifically, the Project site is located along SR 116 between Redwood Road and approximately 500 feet west of Alder Avenue within the public right-of-way and frontage as well as West Cotati Avenue from the intersection with SR-116 to the intersection with Gillman Ranch Road. The Project site is approximately 350 feet west of the Highway 101 south on/off ramp.

The Project site is comprised of the existing roadways and public right of way along approximately 1,400 linear feet of State Highway CA 116, City-owned parcel 144-050-004, a portion of the neighboring parcel 144-050-005 which has been dedicated to the City through a land swap, and an approximately 19-foot-wide strip along SR-116 on parcels 144-050-009, 046-286-018, and 046-286-019 (Figure 2:

Project Vicinity).

2.2. PROJECT BACKGROUND
The proposed modification to the existing intersection of W. Cotati Ave and SR-116 is identified as a priority project based on the City’s collision history and need for improved multi-modal infrastructure and connectivity on the west side of Highway 101. The existing intersection is unsignalized and has an angle that limits sight distances, creating operational challenges. The Local Road Safety Plan lists the need for safety improvements at this intersection based on its high collision history and a cost benefit analysis was performed for intersection improvements. Additionally, the 2024 Active Transportation Plan identifies SR-116 and West Cotati Ave. as key corridors needing improvements to facilitate north/south connectivity and access into the downtown core. The Project rights-of-way are within the urban growth boundary and adjacent parcels are designated for residential, mixed-use, and commercial development in both the General Plan Map (Figure 3) and Zoning Map (Figure 4).

General Plan Goal CI 1 is to create a circulation network that reinforces the desired land use pattern for Cotati and provides for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods to all parts of the City. Under this goal, Policy CI 1 is to ensure that the City’s circulation network is maintained and improved over time to support buildout of the General Plan in a manner that is consistent with the City’s Circulation Diagram Figure 2.1. Figure 2.1 identifies new signalization at W. Cotati Avenue and SR-116. Further, General Plan Policy CI 1.2 is to ensure that the City’s circulation network is a wellconnected system of streets, roads, highways, sidewalk, and bicycle/pedestrian paths that effectively accommodates vehicular and non-vehicular traffic in a manner that considers the context of surrounding land uses and the needs of all roadway users.

Surrounding land use projects in the vicinity of the proposed roadway improvements include the following:
• The South Sonoma Business Park (SSBP) - The entirety of the SSBP site (~30 acres), including the recently approved Cotati Village project, was mass graded circa 2002. To date the SSBP project site has been developed with a Lowes Home Improvement Center and the existing Cotati Commons residences. The SSBP Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified by the City of Cotati (SCH #2000052045) on June 13, 2001, and evaluated impacts associated with 590,000 square feet of office and 60,000 square feet retail development on ~30 acres. The SSBP EIR also evaluated the improvements to State Route 116 to five lanes (2 lanes both east and west and 1 turning lane) and a signalized intersection at Alder Avenue. Alder Avenue, Helman Lane, and Redwood Drive were also analyzed for widening. In addition, the 2001 SSBP EIR included the re-alignment of West Cotati Avenue to align with the primary site access and to create a standard four-legged perpendicular intersection. The City of Cotati certified the SSBP EIR and approved the Orchard Plan Alternative, which included 582,000 square feet of mixed-use office/retail commercial development and 50 housing units. 209 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 4 of 136 CEQA Analysis The first addendum to the 2001 SSBP EIR was approved by City Council on December 22, 2003, to accommodate the Orchard Alternative plan. Addendum No. 1 renamed the Orchard Plan Alternative as “Cotati Commons,” and considered the development of 259,000 square feet of retail (referred to as Cotati Commons Marketplace), 42 residential units, and 39,750 square feet of office space (referred to as Cotati Commons). The revised project analyzed in Addendum No. 1 maintained the same number of access points as in the Orchard Plan Alternative but adjusted the locations to fit the modified site plan. The primary entry from SR 116 to the retail portion of the site would now be signalized. In addition, six more points of access were proposed: two on Alder Avenue, one on Redwood Drive, and three on Helman Lane. As evaluated in the 2001 SSBP EIR, SR 116 would be widened. However, there would no longer be a signalized intersection at Alder Avenue.

Following approvals of the Orchard Alternative, the residential component of the Cotati Commons (46 dwelling units) was constructed in 2004. Public improvements to Alder Avenue were also constructed in 2004. Lowe’s Home Improvement Store (165,382 square feet of retail), all within the Cotati Commons Marketplace, were constructed in 2006.

The second addendum to the 2001 SSBP EIR was prepared in November 2006 and was approved by City Council on June 13, 2007 (Resolution #07-24). Under Addendum No. 2, the number of residential units was reduced from 42 to 40, with 15 units becoming live-work units, and office space was reduced from 39,750 square feet to 38,000 square feet. Addendum No. 2 evaluated the SR 116 Improvements within current and future Caltrans right-of-way.

Addendum No. 2 also evaluated the frontage improvements that were completely or partially outside of Caltrans right-of-way including:
o Removal of the direct entrance to Cotati Commons Village from SR 116 o Improvement of the north leg of the Alder Avenue intersection o Realignment of driveways for the adjacent Shamrock Materials and Minatta Trucking Company parcels so they are combined and aligned to form the south leg of the SR 116/Alder Avenue intersection
o Construction of new public sidewalks along the northern edge of SR 116 from the Redwood Drive intersection to Alder Avenue, including handicap ramps, and o Install pedestrian crosswalks north of SR 116 across the primary entrance driveway and Alder Avenue
• On November 12, 2019, the City approved an Assisted Living/Memory Care Development on parcels 144-040-011 and 144-040-021 including a 4,000 square foot cannabis dispensary. The Jane Dispensary was constructed on parcel 144-040-021 along the SR-116 frontage and began operating on October 31, 2022. Adjacent uses include Acre Pizza and an axillary office use. The applicant decided not to proceed with the Assisted Living/Memory Care component of the project and the entitlements have since expired. A new project titled Cotati Village 2 proposing 126 multi-family units and 2000 square feet of commercial space on the remainder of this site is currently under review by the City.
• An SB 330 application to create a 170-unit multi-family housing and mixed use development also named “Cotati Village” and at APN 144-050-009 was approved on February 27, 2024. The 210 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 5 of 136 CEQA Analysis Project includes a 30-foot-wide build to setback from the SR-116 right-of-way and would utilize the newly signalized W. Cotati Avenue intersection as the primary access point. • A 168-unit townhome housing and mixed-use development at APN 046-286-018 and -019, known as Redwood Row, just east of the Cotati Village site has been preliminarily proposed and is pending a complete application. This project includes a 25-foot wide “build to” set back from the SR-116 right-of-way and would utilize the newly signalized W. Cotati Avenue intersection as the primary access point.

Roadway Design Options
In December of 2022 the City of Cotati engaged consultant Fehr and Peers to study the intersection of West Cotati Ave. and SR-116 and create a design that would prioritize local roadway safety as well as pedestrian and bicycle connectivity. Three potential realignments for West Cotati Avenue were studied: a 90º intersection with SR-116 offset 55’ from what would be potential future roadway connection to the north; a less than 90º connection to SR-116 with an angled connection and 37’ offset to a potential future roadway to the north, and a 90º intersection with SR-116 directly across from the potential future roadway to the north and requiring the acquisition of additional private land.

Fehr and Peers also analyzed three different methods for intersection control: a side street stop-sign, a roundabout, and a signalized intersection. Given the current traffic safety concerns, a stop sign would not meet the Project needs as it would pose greater risk to people crossing SR-116 (in all transportation modes) and would not accommodate future growth. A roundabout design was considered, but the roundabout would have a significantly bigger footprint, limit flexibility to accommodate future traffic and planned expansion, and be more costly. Additionally, the City of Cotati Municipal Code 11.11.101 prohibits the construction or utilization of roundabouts and traffic circles.

The following objectives were identified for the Project:
• Implement General Plan Actions CI1b and CI1c.
• Improve the safety of the intersection of SR-116 and W. Cotati Avenue for all roadway users including bicycles and pedestrians.
• Modify SR-116 to accommodate existing and future planned land uses. • Improve traffic conditions through appropriate traffic control measures. • Minimize the footprint of the Project through appropriate design.

Through the design process, a variety of design options were considered to determine how to best meet the above noted project objectives. It was determined that a side stop traffic control would not adequately provide for safety. A roundabout was considered but determined inappropriate due to the large footprint that would be required as well as the City’s prohibition on roundabouts. It was determined that a four-way signalized intersection would meet the Project objectives, have a lower crash risk than a side street stop control, lower impact to adjacent property owners than a roundabout, accommodate multimodal travel and safety, and have the flexibility to accommodate future traffic volumes. It is also the option most consistent with the actions identified in the City’s General Plan.

2.3. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The Project site includes an existing two-lane highway, State Route 116 Gravenstein Highway (SR-116), and an existing local arterial, W. Cotati Avenue and ruderal grasslands. Both roadways have two-lanes 211 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 6 of 136 CEQA Analysis with one 12-foot travel lane in each direction. SR-116 has a striped centerline and an 8-9 foot partially paved shoulder. Approximately 275 feet west of Redwood Avenue, SR-116 widens into two throughtraffic lanes and a left-hand turn lane at the intersection of Redwood Drive. There is a 100-foot righthand merge lane on westbound SR-116 starting at the intersection of Redwood Drive. The intersection of West Cotati Avenue with SR-116 is currently controlled by a side-stop street at a 30% angle. There are no designated bike or pedestrian facilities on either side of SR-116.

State Route 116 is a Caltrans-owned facility and therefore is designed to comply with the Highway Design Manual (HDM). It is classified as a Conventional Highway (HDM Chapter 60, Section 62.3) and subclassified as an urban arterial based on the existing and proposed highway context (HDM Chapter 100, Index 101.1). These classifications inform design decisions for roadway access and design speeds.

Roadway access is at-grade and accommodates local access to adjacent land uses and roadways. The design speed for the roadway is between 40-60 mph (HDM Table 101.2).

Currently, SR-116 is two lanes and has a posted speed limit of 45 mph through the Project area. The speed limit is reduced to 35 mph for eastbound traffic on approach to the intersection with Redwood Drive. East of the Project area, SR-116 is four lanes and has a posted speed of 35 mph as it enters a more densely developed area. West of the Project area it is two lanes and has a posted speed of 45 mph with driveway access to adjacent properties and local roadway access.

The existing W. Cotati Avenue is a two-lane road with a partial sidewalk that extends approximately 100 feet west from its intersection with Gillman Road. There are no pedestrian facilities along either side of the existing W. Cotati Avenue. An existing striped bike lane exists from the intersection of Gillman Road for 100 feet and then is merged with the existing vehicle traffic, which is indicated as a Class 3 bicycle route through “sharrow” pavement marking.

Vegetation and Wetlands
Parcels 114-050-004 and 144-005-005, where the new alignment of W. Cotati Avenue will intersect with SR-116 are currently vacant parcels. The parcels have existing vegetation and approximately 5,400 square feet of seasonal wetlands and 268 feet of linear wetlands.

A 368-foot-long linear wetland is located within the public right of way along the southern side of West Cotati Avenue from the end of the existing sidewalk to the intersection with SR-116.

On the northside of SR-116, adjacent parcels 144-050-009, 046-286-018, 046-286-019 are currently undeveloped. The strip of land proposed for dedication from these parcels includes approximately 1,661 square feet of isolated wetlands along SR-116. The mixed-use development on 144-050-009 has been approved and the mixed-use development on parcels 046-286-018 and 046-286-019 is under review.

The majority of the vegetation on the Project site is dominated by a ruderal herbaceous plant community. Ruderal (weedy) communities are assemblages of plants that thrive in waste areas, roadsides and other sites that have been disturbed by human activity. Typically, hardpacked soils of roadsides, parking lots, industrial areas and construction sites support communities of ruderal species. Trees are located on the site and include a variety of species including California Black Oak and Valley Oak, and Eucalyptus. No special status plant species have been observed on the site.

Environmental Conditions
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 7 of 136 CEQA Analysis The likely presence of aerially deposited lead (ADL) associated with automobile exhaust along Highway 116 represents a current Recognized Environmental Condition for the Subject Property. Several Completed-Case Closed LUST (petroleum hydrocarbon releases) sites are near the Subject Property boundary. Based on their regulatory status (Completed-Case Closed), location relative to the expected direction of groundwater flow (i.e., crossgradient of the Subject Property), they are unlikely to pose significant environmental risk to the Subject Property.

2.4. GENERAL PLAN AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The majority of the Project area is an existing public roadway and associated right of way, and thus does not in and of itself have a General Plan Land Use or Zoning Designation. However, the surrounding land uses and zoning provide important context for the Project. Adjacent parcels have General Plan land use designation General Commercial along SR-116 and Rural Residential to the south of the W. Cotati Ave. (Figure 3: ). The surrounding land use designations are General Commercial to the north, east, and west of the Project, and Low-Density Residential south of the West Cotati Avenue Realignment. The two parcels, 114-050-004 and 144-005-005, where W. Cotati Ave. will be realigned, are designated as General Commercial.

The City’s General Plan is intended to direct future growth in the City of Cotati. The Circulation Element includes goals, policies, and programs that plan for the future transportation to ensure that all modes of transportation can accommodate the land use designations proposed in the General Plan.

Circulation Element Actions CI 1b through CI 1e identify the transportation improvement projects that would support the proposed growth of the City of Cotati. Actions CI 1b and 1c, specifically identify the following projects which encompass the Project site:
• Construct a minor realignment of West Cotati Avenue to intersect Gravenstein Highway at an improved angle and install a traffic signal at the intersection. • Reconstruct Gravenstein Highway between Madrone Avenue and Redwood Drive to include sidewalks, bicycle lanes, two vehicle Travel lanes in each direction, and left Turn pockets.

The City of Cotati Land Use Code implements the General Plan. Several different districts are identified in the Zoning Ordinance that are intended to, among other things, provide for a wide range of uses and implement the City’s vision to conserve open space and resources. The Project will take place on existing paved roads and existing and planned right of way. Land along the northside of the Project that will be dedicated and the parcels that will be used for the realignment of West Cotati Avenue are zoned General Commercial - Gravenstein Corridor, and the surrounding land uses to the north, east, and west of the Project are designated General Commercial – Gravenstein Corridor and the area south of the Project on West Cotati is zoned Residential Very Low Density and within the areas identified for future road expansion in the City’s General Plan. (Figure 4: Zoning) The Project will support the future development that would be developed in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance.

2.5. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Project will decommission an existing section of West Cotati Ave and realign its intersection at a 90º angle to SR-116. A 10-foot sidewalk, to align with City Commercial Street Standards, and striped bicycle lane would be installed along the realigned West Cotati Ave extending from the new intersection to the existing sidewalk and bike lane at Gillman Ranch Road (Figure 5: Site Plan). A 213 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 8 of 136 CEQA Analysis dedicated left-turn lane to westbound SR-116 would be added along West Cotati Ave, as well as a thruright turn lane, to facilitate the northbound and eastbound movements from West Cotati Ave. The decommissioned section of W. Cotati will be re-purposed as a bike connection for West Cotati Ave.

Improvements would include striped bicycle lanes, ADA accessible sidewalks and curb cuts, landscaping, and associated striping for safety.

The Project will modify State Route 116/Gravenstein Highway (SR-116) from the intersection of Redwood Drive to approximately 350 feet west of Alder Avenue and will realign West Cotati Avenue to a 90-degree intersection, signalization, and the addition of dedicated turning lanes, as well as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The ultimate roadway improvements also include a dedicated leftturn lane into Alder Ave. Signalization will include a five section signal head with left turn arrows, a separate three section bicycle signal head, and a no right turn on red blank out sign.

West of the proposed intersection of SR-116 and West Cotati Ave, the Project would construct two eastbound lanes, including a 12-foot through lane and a 12-foot right lane, and a 12-foot dedicated left-hand turn lane. The eastbound direction would also include a stripped bike lane within the 8-foot shoulder, extending on both sides of the new intersection to Redwood Drive. The eastbound traffic would continue east of the intersection in one 12-foot lane with an 8-foot shoulder. On the approach to Redwood Drive, a dedicated left-turn lane, thru lane, and thru-right turn lane will be reconstructed to meet the existing intersection configuration. The westbound and eastbound traffic would be separated by a 6-foot-wide concrete raised median.

East of the proposed intersection of SR-116 and West Cotati Ave, the Project would create three 12- foot westbound lanes, including a center through lane, a dedicated left-turn lane, and a dedicated right-turn lane. The eastbound traffic on SR-116 would continue in a single 12-foot through lane. An 8-foot paved/striped shoulder would run the length of the westbound lanes with the option for an additional Class II bike lane. On the north side of SR-116, a 14-foot-wide (including two-foot shoulders) Class 1 shared-use path, separated by a vegetated buffer, would run the length of the Project, from Redwood Drive to about 500-feet west of Alder Ave. At Redwood Drive, the Class 1 path would split and continue north behind the existing China Village Restaurant to the Lowe’s parking lot, tying into the planned bicycle and pedestrian network beyond. Heading east, the path would conform to the existing sidewalk and terminate at Redwood Drive.

Traffic at the intersection of SR-116 and West Cotati Ave would be controlled by a four-way signal.

Sidewalks and curb cuts would be installed at all four corners of the intersection for both bicycle and pedestrian access.

Signalization
Proposed traffic signal phasing at SR116 and West Cotati Avenue prioritized operational efficiency, safety, and comfort for all modes. The proposed phasing plan includes the following features:
• Leading pedestrian intervals for all crosswalks, giving pedestrians a head start before parallel through traffic receives a green signal, improving visibility for vehicles looking for pedestrians. • “No Right on Red” turn restrictions for westbound right turns to protect pedestrians and cyclists using the Class IV separated bikeway on the north side of SR116. • Protected left turn phasing for all approaches and protected right turn phasing for westbound right approaches. Protected left turns are safer for all modes by allowing vehicles to turn left without conflicting with oncoming traffic, reducing the risk of collisions and traffic delays. 214 of 1574
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 9 of 136 CEQA Analysis Consistent with CA MUTCD guidance, the protected westbound right turn eliminates potential conflicts with pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
• Bike signal heads are proposed for the Class IV separated bikeway on the north side of SR116 to provide a protected through movement for bicyclists without vehicular conflicts. • Overlap phases for the westbound right and southbound left turns accommodate new project trips and supplement reduced capacity from the westbound right turn’s no right on red turn restriction.
• Signal coordination with adjacent intersections on SR116 will reduce delays and queues in the peak hour.

Landscaping, Lighting, and Fencing
The Project includes the addition of new streetlights as required for safety and compliance with the City’s municipal code and Caltrans design standards and regulations. Landscaping and lighting will be addressed in the final design and engineering plans and will be designed in compliance with applicable Caltrans Design Standards, consistent with City policies and objectives, and in compliance the City of Cotati Municipal Code.

Storm Drainage Infrastructure
The Project proposes to maintain existing flow patterns within the Project limits. The existing storm drainage infrastructure is limited to roadside ditches, short segments of culverts under driveways, and a few existing drainage inlets within 300-feet of Redwood Drive. The Project proposes to maintain the same crowned grading conditions along SR-116, with flow concentrating at the outside edge of pavement, running into the roadside ditches.

West Cotati Ave will be graded to allow for run-off to concentrate along the proposed curb and gutter, and to outlet in a similar manner as existing.

Site Preparation and Construction
For the purpose of this analysis, it is assumed that site preparation and construction would occur within approximately 60 construction days. Site preparation would initiate with the removal of vegetation and trees, decommissioning of approximately 350 linear feet of West Cotati Avenue, and grading. and paving of the new roadway as well as installation of the new sidewalks and pathways.

Revegetation of the Project would include seeding the median and other landscape strips with nativedrought tolerant plants, and tree replacement in compliance with Municipal Code Chapter 17.54.

Utilities
Several utilities run overhead or underground within the public right of way throughout the Project site. These include:
• Water – City of Cotati
• Natural Gas – Pacific Gas & Electric
• Electricity – Pacific Gas & Electric
• Sewer – City of Cotati
• Telecommunications – AT&T
• Telecommunications – Comcast
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West Cotati Avenue/ Highway 116 Realignment Page 10 of 136 CEQA Analysis Construction of the Project may require the relocation of some electrical poles, a fire hydrant, and existing light poles, but will not require expansion or offsite improvements outside of the Project area.

Required Discretionary Actions
The City can use judgement in deciding whether and how to carry out the Project and as such, it is a discretionary action and thus considered a project under CEQA.

Other Public Agency Review
The Project may require the following approvals from agencies other than the City:
• California Department of Transportation – Modification of a state highway and encroachment permit
• Sonoma Water (formerly Sonoma County Water Agency) – For review, approval, and acceptance of the Project’s Stormwater Management Plan. • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Clean Water Act, Section 404 permit) – Wetland impacts • Regional Water Quality Control Board (Water quality certification, Section 401 of the Clean Water Act) – Wetland impacts
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Endangered Species Act Permit • California Department of Fish and Wildlife Service - California Endangered Species Act permit California Native American Tribal Consultation
In accordance with Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21084.2, lead agencies are required to consider Tribal Cultural Resources (TCR) including a site feature, place, cultural landscape, sacred place or object, of cultural value to the tribe and is listed on the California Register of Historic Resources (CRHR) or a local register, or the Lead agency, at its discretion, chooses to treat resources as such. In accordance with PRC Section 21080.3.1(b)(1), the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR), in a letter dated July 20, 2023, stated that its tribe was traditionally and culturally affiliated with a geographic area within the City of Cotati’s geographic area of jurisdiction, and requested formal notice of and information on projects for which the City of Cotati serves as a lead agency under CEQA.

In accordance with PRC Section 21080.3.1(d), the City of Cotati provided written formal notification to the FIGR on July 19, 2023, which included a brief description of the Project and its location, the City of Cotati’s contact information, and a notification that FIGR has 30 days to request consultation pursuant to this section. The City of Cotati did not receive a response from FIGR requesting consultation under PRC Section 21080.3.1(b)(2).
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Project Site
Sonoma County Cotati City Limits
Cotati
Commercial General- Gravenstein Highway
Rural Residential Public Facilities
Residential Very Low Density
Neighborhood - Low Density
Commerical/Industrial
N
Rural Residential
Low Density Residential Open Space
Low/Medium Density Residential
General Commercial
Public Facilities
Commercial Industrial
Specic Plan Highway 101
Locust Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood
W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

Highway 101
Figure 1: Regional Map
West Cotati Realignment | Cotati, CA
Data Source: ESRI, City of Cotati
Project Site 218 of 1574
Cotati
Project Site
Cotati City Limits Sonoma County
Cotati
Commercial General- Gravenstein Highway
Rural Residential Public Facilities
Residential Very Low Density
Neighborhood - Low Density
Commerical/Industrial
N
Cotati
Village 2 Cotati Village
Community
Redwood Row
Rural Residential
Low Density Residential Open Space
Low/Medium Density Residential
General Commercial
Public Facilities
Commercial Industrial
Specic Plan Highway 101
Locust Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

Highway 101
Cotati City Limits
Figure 2: Project Vicinity Map
West Cotati Realignment | Cotati, CA
Data Source: ESRI, CalFire, City of
Cotati
Project Site 219 of 1574
Cotati
Project Site
Cotati City Limits Sonoma County
Cotati
6RQRPD&RXQW\%XUHDXRI/DQG0DQDJHPHQW(VUL+(5(*DUPLQ,1&5(0(1731*$86* Rural Residential Commercial General- Gravenstein Highway Public Facilities Residential Very Low Density
Neighborhood Low Density Commerical/Industrial
Open Space
Neighborhood, Medium Density
Neighborhood, Urban
N
Rural Residential
Low Density Residential Open Space
Low/Medium Density Residential
General Commercial
Public Facilities
Commercial Industrial
Specic Plan Highway 101
Locust Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Highway 101
Alder Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Gillman Ranch Rd.

Figure 3: General Plan Designation Map
West Cotati Realignment | Cotati, CA
Data Source: ESRI, City of Cotati
Project Site 220 of 1574
Cotati
Project Site
Cotati City Limits Sonoma County
Cotati
Rural Residential Commercial General- Gravenstein Highway Public Facilities Residential Very Low Density
Neighborhood Low Density Commerical/Industrial
Open Space
Neighborhood, Medium Density
Neighborhood, Urban
N
Rural Residential
Low Density Residential Open Space
Low/Medium Density Residential
General Commercial
Public Facilities
Commercial Industrial
Specic Plan Highway 101
Locust Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Alder Ave.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Gillman Ranch Rd.

Redwood Dr.

W. Cotati Ave.

Highway 101
Alder Ave.

SR-116 Gravenstein Highway
Gillman Ranch Rd.

Figure 4: ZoningMap
West Cotati Realignment | Cotati, CA
Data Source: ESRI, City of Cotati
Project Site 221 of 1574
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3. RELEVANT CITY PLANNING DOCUMENTS
CEQA Guidelines 15183 limits the environmental review to the General Plan and the General Plan EIR, however the adopted community and countywide plans establish the framework used for the development of the proposed Project. Incorporation by reference is a necessary device for reducing the size of a CEQA document and eliminates the need for the inclusion and repetition of copious technical and other background information into a CEQA document. Of particular relevance are the following documents, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document as if they were published herein. The relevant information and/or analysis that has been incorporated by reference into this environmental review has been summarized. The documents are available for public review at the City of Cotati, 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, CA 94931 and/or online at the following link: https://www.cotaticity.org/220/Citywide-Planning-Documents or as otherwise indicated.

City of Cotati General Plan (2015)
The 2013 City of Cotati General Plan was adopted in 2015 and identifies the City’s vision for the future and provides a framework that will guide decisions on growth, development, and conservation of open space and resources in a manner consistent with the quality of life desired by the City’s residents and businesses. To ensure that this desired vision is realized, the General Plan has been designed to be internally consistent and cross-referenced with other documents, including the City’s Land Use Code. The Cotati General Plan was adopted by City Council on March 24, 2015, by Resolution Number 2015-12.

The Cotati General Plan is intended for a broad range of applications, including:
• Informing discretionary activities carried out by City Council and Planning Commission; • Program and project development and implementation carried out by City staff; • Preparation of project proposals by the development community; and • Facilitation of public understanding of future development in Cotati and the City’s vision, goals, and priorities.

A copy of the City of Cotati’s General Plan is available at the Community Development Department, 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California 94931, during normal business hours and online at https://www.cotaticity.org/.

City of Cotati General Plan Environmental Impact Report (2013) The 2013 City of Cotati General Plan EIR (SCH No. 2013082037) was certified on March 24, 2015, by Resolution Number 2015-11. The General Plan EIR analyzed the following environmental resource topics: aesthetics and visual resources; air quality; biological resources; cultural resources; geology and soils; greenhouse gases and climate change; hazards; hydrology and water quality; land use, agriculture, and population; noise; public services and recreation; transportation and circulation; and utilities. The EIR analyzed two buildout scenarios. One evaluated maximum projected development within the City Limits, and the other evaluated the maximum projected development that could occur within the existing City Limits and the City’s Sphere of Influence.

The General Plan EIR reviewed potentially significant environmental effects resulting from plan implementation and developed measures and policies to mitigate impacts to less-than-significant levels. Nonetheless, significant and unavoidable impacts were determined to occur under the General 224 of 1574
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Aesthetics
• Impact 3.1-1: Substantial Adverse Effects on Visual Character, including Scenic Vistas or Scenic Resources.
• Impact 4.1: Cumulative Degradation of the Existing Visual Character of the Region Noise
• Impact 3.10-1: Traffic Noise Sources.
• Impact 3.10-7: Cumulative Noise Impacts
• Impact 4.11: Cumulative Exposure of Noise-Sensitive Land Uses to Noise in Excess of Normally Acceptable Noise Levels or to Substantial Increases in Noise.

Traffic
• Impact 3.12-1: Acceptable traffic operation at the study intersections and roadway segments controlled by the City of Cotati, though the ability to fully fund all identified improvements is uncertain.
• Impact 3.12-2: Acceptable traffic operation on Gravenstein Highway, though the funding and timing of improvements needed to accommodate regional and local growth on the highway is uncertain.
• Impact 3.12-3: Unacceptable operation on US 101 freeway facilities. • Impact 4.13: Cumulative Impact on the Transportation Network.

Utilities
• Impact 3.13-3: Potential to exceed wastewater treatment capacity or the requirements of the RWQCB.
• Impact 4.14: Cumulative Impact on Utilities.

Other
• Impact 4.15: Irreversible Effects (Consumption of Nonrenewable Resources, Irretrievable Commitments, Irreversible Physical Changes).

The Draft EIR for the Cotati General Plan (SCH No. 2013082037) was prepared in September 2014. The Draft EIR, together with the Response to Comments Document dated November 2014, constitute the Final EIR for the Cotati General Plan. On March 24, 2015, the City of Cotati City Council adopted Resolution 2015-11 certifying the Final EIR for the Cotati General Plan. A copy of the City of Cotati’s General Plan EIR is available at the Community Development Department, 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California 94931, during normal business hours and online at www.cotaticity.org.

Moving Forward 2050: Sonoma County Comprehensive Transportation Plan Moving Forward 2050, Sonoma County’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), is a 25-year plan that serves as the vision for transportation throughout Sonoma County, with goals for the 225 of 1574
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Cotati Active Transportation Plan 2024
This Cotati Active Transportation Plan (ATP) was developed as a component of the Sonoma County Transportation Authority‘s (SCTA’s) 2024 Countywide Active Transportation Master Plan. While part of the Master Plan, the City of Cotati plan is also a stand-alone document to be used by the City of Cotati to guide implementation of local projects and programs and document city policy. It is also designed to be a component of the SCTA Countywide Active Transportation Master Plan to improve coordination in realizing the countywide bicycle and pedestrian system.

The purposes of the SCTA Countywide Active Transportation Master Plan are to:
• Assess the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians throughout Sonoma County in order to identify a set of local and countywide improvements and implementation strategies that will encourage more people to walk and bicycle;
• Identify local and countywide systems of physical and programmatic improvements to support bicycling and walking;
• Provide local agencies that adopt the Plan with eligibility for various funding programs, including the State Bicycle Transportation Account (BTA) which is now part of the State’s Active Transportation Program;
• Act as a resource and coordinating document for local actions and regional projects; Foster cooperation between entities for planning purposes and to create Geographic Information System (GIS) maps and a database of existing and proposed facilities countywide.

City of Cotati Local Roadway Safety Plan (2021)
The City Council of Cotati adopted the Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP) on December 14, 2021. The plan serves as a framework to systematically identify and analyze transportation safety issues, collaborate with partner agencies and stakeholder, and develop a multidisciplinary toolbox of traffic safety countermeasures. It is also a blueprint for addressing traffic safety issues throughout the County across the 4 E's of traffic safety disciplines; Engineering, Education, Enforcement, & Emergency Services. The LRSP is divided into 3 core parts. The first is an assessment of historical collision trends 226 of 1574
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Vision Zero Action Plan (2022)
Developed in collaboration with the City of Cotati, the Sonoma County Vision Zero Action Plan outlines practical, evidence-based steps to build a future for Sonoma County where roads are free of fatal and life-altering crashes. Vision Zero is a traffic safety philosophy that lays out a new set of principles for engineering roads, educating travelers, and creating a sense of collective responsibility.

The Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA) and Sonoma County Department of Health Services (OHS) convened the Vision Zero Advisory Committee (VZAC) and set a target goal of zero traffic deaths and severe injuries on roadways within the County by 2030. The Vision Zero plan builds on the efforts of local jurisdictions, including the City of Cotati LRSP, and other agencies and identifies the additional strategies and resources required to meet Sonoma County's Vision Zero goal. It represents a commitment to specific Vision Zero actions that are organized into six high-level goals:

Create Safe Speeds, Eliminate Impaired Driving, Create a Culture of Safety, Build Safe Streets for All, Make Vehicles Safer and Reduce Private Vehicle Use, and Improve Data for Effective Decision Making.

The City of Cotati adopted the Vision Zero Plan in February 2023, and will incorporate program, maintenance, and infrastructure improvement actions to address identify challenges along the City’s High Injury Network (HIN).

Climate Action 2020 and Beyond (2016)
On March 27, 2018, the Cotati City Council adopted Resolution 2018-15 reaffirming its intent to reduce GHG emissions as part of a coordinated effort through the Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority. The resolution reaffirmed the City’s commitment to the Climate Action 2020 and Beyond Plan that was developed in 2016.

According to the Climate Action 2020 Plan adopted in 2016 and reaffirmed in 2018, the City of Cotati will achieve GHG reduction targets through a combination of state, regional and local measures. At the state level, fuel efficiency standards, Title 24 building standards, low carbon fuel standard, and Renewable Portfolio Standards are estimated to achieve a GHG reduction of 13,710 MTCO2e by 2020.

Regional efforts are projected to achieve a GHG reduction of 4,070 MTCO2e through activities carried out by the Regional Climate Protection Authority, Sonoma Water, County of Sonoma Energy Independence Office, Sonoma County Transportation Authority, and Sonoma Clean Power. Locally, the City of Cotati is expected to realize a GHG reduction of 1,550 MTCO2e through implementation of Measure 11-L1 (Senate Bill SB X7-7 – Water Conservation Act of 2009), Measure 2-L4 (Solar in Existing Non-Residential Buildings), and Measure 2-L2 (Solar in Existing Residential Buildings). Additional GHG reducing efforts by the City include purchase and use of 100-percent renewable “evergreen” power from Sonoma Clean Power, purchase and deployment of electric vehicles (EV(s)) for all civic use automobiles in the City’s fleet (along the adopted vehicle replacement schedule) and early adoption of the 2024 building code EV charging standards.

4. APPLICABLE CEQA PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS
The following discussion presents the relevant provisions of CEQA with which the Project complies. It provides an overview of the Community Plan Exemption. A description of how the Project complies 227 of 1574
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4.1. GENERAL PLAN/COMMUNITY PLAN EXEMPTION (CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183) California Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 allows a streamlined environmental review process for projects that are consistent with the densities established by existing zoning, community plan, or general plan policies for which an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was certified.

Section 15183 (a) “mandates that projects which are consistent with the development density established by existing zoning, community plan, or general plan policies for which an EIR was certified shall not require additional environmental review, except as might be necessary to examine whether there are project-specific significant effects which are peculiar to the Project or its site. This streamlines the review of such projects and reduces the need to prepare repetitive environmental studies.”
Section 15183(b) of the CEQA Guidelines specifies that “in approving a project meeting the requirements of Section 15183, examination of environmental effects:

As prescribed in Section 15183(b), a public agency shall limit its examination of environmental effects to those which the agency determines, in an initial study or other analysis:

1. Are peculiar to the Project or the parcel on which the Project would be located,

2. Were not analyzed as significant effects in a prior EIR on the zoning action, general plan or community plan with which the Project is consistent,

3. Are potentially significant off-site impacts and cumulative impacts which were not discussed in the prior EIR prepared for the general plan, community plan or zoning action, or

4. Are previously identified significant effects which, as a result of substantial new information which was not known at the time the EIR was certified, are determined to have a more severe adverse impact than discussed in the prior EIR.

Section 15183(c) specifies that impacts which are not peculiar to the Project site which have been addressed as a significant effect in the prior EIR or can be substantially mitigated by applying uniformly applied development standards and policies shall not require preparation of an additional EIR on the basis of that impact. As such, the Project is required to implement all applicable mitigation measures set forth in the General Plan EIR to avoid, reduce, or offset environmental impacts. Section 7 of this CEQA Analysis identifies the relevant conditions of approval that will be required of the Project to demonstrate compliance with mitigation measures set forth in the program level EIR, and policies, programs and goals of the General Plan.

4.2. APPLICABILITY OF THE PROJECT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15183 Section 15183(d) of the CEQA Guidelines states that streamlining provisions of this section apply to projects that meet the following criteria: (1) the Project is consistent with (a) a community plan adopted as part of a general plan, (b) a zoning action which zoned or designated the parcel on which the Project would be located to accommodate a particular density of development, or (c) a general plan of a local agency, and (2) an EIR was certified by the lead agency for the zoning action, the community plan, or the general plan.
228 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 23 of 136 CEQA Analysis The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element under Actions CI 1b and 1c and is consistent with the General Plan policies and actions including the following:
• Policy CI 1.1 Ensure that the City’s circulation network is maintained and improved over time to support buildout of the General Plan in a manner that is consistent with the City’s Circulation Diagram Figure 2.1.
• Policy CI 1.2 Ensure that the City’s circulation network is a well-connected system of streets, roads, highways, sidewalks, and bicycle/pedestrian paths that effectively accommodates vehicular and non-vehicular traffic in a manner that considers the context of surrounding land uses and the needs of all roadway users.
• Policy CI 2.11 Establish and maintain bicycle facilities that are consistent with the network depicted in the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Policy CI 2.12 Public road construction projects shall incorporate facilities identified in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan to the greatest extent feasible. • Policy CI 1.3: Establish a minimum motor vehicle Level of Service (LOS) standard of LOS D at intersections. The following shall be taken into consideration in applying LOS standards: (see General Plan Page 2-5 for full list of considerations)
• Policy CI 1.6: When analyzing impacts to the circulation network created by new development or roadway improvements, consider the needs of all users including those with disabilities, ensuring that pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders are considered at an equal level to the needs of automobile drivers.
• Policy CI 2.1 Establish and maintain a system of pedestrian facilities and crossing enhancements that are consistent with the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. • Policy CI 2.6 Create an accessible circulation network that is consistent with guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing mobility-impaired users such as the disabled and elderly to safely and effectively travel within and beyond the City. • Action CI 2c: Review all transportation improvements to ensure installation in accordance with current accessibility standards.
• Policy CI 1.8: Maintain safe travel conditions for all modes of travel. • Policy CI 1.9: Consider all transportation improvements as opportunities to improve safety, access, and mobility for all roadway users.
• Policy CI 1.18: Intersections shall be designed to provide adequate and safe access for all users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists of all ages and abilities. • Action CI 1b: Ensure that future development provides roadway improvements consistent with the Circulation Diagram and implement the roadway improvements identified in the Traffic Impact Fee Study to improve the safety and efficiency of the current circulation system, and to support buildout of the General Plan.
• Action CI 1c: Work collaboratively with Caltrans, the County of Sonoma, and the City of Rohnert Park to identify funding sources and complete the following improvements or improvements of comparable effectiveness, on roadways owned by these agencies within and near the City of Cotati.
• Action CI 2b: Review traffic signal timing plans to ensure adequate crossing times for all users at signalized intersections.
• Action CI 2h: Public Works shall ensure that bicycle loop detectors at traffic signals are clearly identified with stencils, if in-ground loops are used for detection. 229 of 1574
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4.3. CEQA DETERMINATION AND SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
As summarized above and presented herein, the Project is eligible for the following CEQA provisions:

Community Plan Exemption. Development of the Project site has been planned for and analyzed in the Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) certified for the City of Cotati General Plan. As such, the analysis in the General Plan program-level EIR is applicable to the Project and provides the basis for use of the Community Plan Exemption (California Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183).

The Project will implement applicable mitigation measures identified in the City of Cotati General Plan EIR (SCH Number 2013082037), as detailed in Section 7 below. With implementation of relevant mitigation measures imposed as conditions of approval, the Project would not result in a substantial increase in the severity or significant impacts that were previously identified in the program level EIR, nor would the Project introduce any new significant impacts that were not previously identified.

Therefore, there would be no additional environmental impacts beyond those disclosed and analyzed in the General Plan EIR.

The City of Cotati Representative has reviewed all environmental conditions and as signed below is committed to implementing all conditional of approval as part of the Project. The findings above provide a basis for CEQA compliance. We do hereby certify that the above determination has been made pursuant to State and Local requirements.

The City of Cotati finds that although the Project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR (General Plan EIR) pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions to the Project or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the Project, as environmental conditions of approval, nothing further is required. ____________________________________________________ _______________ Signature: City of Cotati Date
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5. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
This section examines the Project’s potential environmental effects within the parameters outlined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15183(b). The “Prior EIR” (as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15183(b)(3), is the City of Cotati General Plan EIR, inclusive of all impact determinations, significance thresholds and mitigation measures identified therein.

This evaluation builds from the Appendix G Environmental Checklist and has been modified to reflect the parameters outlined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15183(b). The checkboxes in the evaluation below indicate whether the Project would result in environmental impacts, as follows:
• New Significant Impact – The Project would result in a new significant impact that was not previously identified in the General Plan EIR.
• Substantial Increase in Severity of Previously Identified Significant Impact in GP EIR – The Project’s specific impact would be substantially greater than the specific impact described in the General Plan EIR.
• Substantial Change Relative to GP EIR – The Project would involve a substantial change from analysis conducted in the General Plan EIR.
• Equal or Less Severity of Impact than Previously Identified in GP EIR – The severity of the specific impact of the Project would be the same as or less than the severity of the specific impact described in the General Plan EIR.

Where the severity of the impacts of the Project would be the same as or less than the severity of the impacts described in the General Plan EIR, the checkbox for “Equal or Less Severity of Impact Previously Identified in GP EIR” is checked. Where the checkbox for “Substantial Increase in Severity of Previously Identified Significant Impact in GP EIR” or “New Significant Impact” is checked, there are significant impacts that are:
• Peculiar to the Project or Project site (CEQA Guidelines Section 15183(b)(3)); • Not analyzed as significant impacts in the previous EIRs, including off-site and cumulative impacts (CEQA Guidelines Section 15183(b)(2));
• Due to substantial changes in the Project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(1)); • Due to substantial changes in circumstances under which the Project will be undertaken (CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(2)); or
• Due to substantial new information not known at the time the EIRs were certified (CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162(a)(3) and 15183(b)(4)).

Following the Checklist, a summary of the potential environmental impacts relevant to the Project that may result from the General Plan, as evaluated in the General Plan EIR, are described. Next, the potential Project-specific environmental effects of the Project, including the Project’s consistency with the General Plan EIR, are discussed. Last, applicable General Plan EIR mitigation measures, as well as General Plan Objectives, Policies and Programs, are identified. 231 of 1574
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This evaluation hereby incorporates by reference the Cotati General Plan EIR discussion and analysis of all environmental topics. The General Plan EIR significance thresholds have been consolidated and abbreviated in this Checklist; a complete list of the significance thresholds can be found in the Cotati General Plan EIR.

The General Plan EIR is a program level document that consider the combined effects of implementing several related projects. As such, the analyses presented in the General Plan EIR represent a cumulative analysis of environmental impacts that may occur from buildout of the General Plan. 232 of 1574
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5.1. AESTHETICS
Except as provided in Public Resources
Code Section 21099, would the Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
scenic vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings
within a state scenic highway?
c) 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 points.)
If the Project is in an urbanized area,
would the Project conflict with applicable
zoning and other regulations governing
scenic quality)?
d) Create a new source of substantial light
or glare which would adversely affect day
or nighttime views in the area?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015. California Scenic Highway Mapping System, Scenic Highway System Lists, 2019; and City of Cotati Municipal Code. Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The City of Cotati General Plan EIR identifies visual and scenic resources throughout the City including scenic highways and corridors, natural scenic resources such as rivers, wildlife area, and prominent visual features in the Cotati Planning Area.

The General Plan EIR concludes that, with implementation of General Plan policies, impacts to the visual character, visual quality and views to the Sonoma Mountains, and resources along the City’s scenic roadways would be significant and unavoidable. The following impacts to aesthetics were considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.1-1: General Plan Implementation could result in Substantial Adverse Effects on Visual Character, including Scenic Vistas or Scenic Resources. General Plan Policies LU 1.4, LU

1.6, LU 1.8, LU 2.1, LU 2.2, LU 3.2, OS 1.1 - OS 1.15, CON 1.15 - CON 1.20 and Actions LU 1c, LU 233 of 1574
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• Impact 3.1-2: General Plan Implementation could result in the Creation of New Sources of Nighttime Lighting and Daytime Glare. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policy OS 1.13 and Action OS 1f, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• The City of Cotati adopted the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations on March 24, 2015, including for the significant and unavoidable impacts identified for Aesthetics and Visual Resources (Impact 3.1-1). The City findings determined that despite the significant and unavoidable impact to aesthetic resources, no other project alternative would meet the City’s objective to realize the development potential of undeveloped lands for residential, office, and commercial uses necessary for housing opportunity and job growth.

The City of Cotati General Plan EIR identifies significant visual resources in the Planning Area including views of the Sonoma Mountains, expansive views of agricultural lands, wildlife habitat areas, the Laguna de Santa Rosa, and various creek corridors. These resources can be viewed from public vantage points, including highways, open roads, open space areas, and private residences throughout the Planning Area. The EIR identified Policies LU 1.4, LU 1.6, LU 1.8 which address visual resources associated with the location of new development, preservation of rural areas, and the urban growth boundary. General Plan policies LU 2.1, LU 2.2, and LU 3.2 address site design, OS 1.1 -OS 1.20 address preservation of open space, scenic views, and rural lands and CON1.15-1.19 address preservation of ridgelines, hillsides, and slopes.

The 2013 General Plan Final EIR (FEIR) determined that the implementation of the General Plan could result in substantial adverse effects on visual character, including impacts to scenic vistas or scenic resources and no feasible mitigation measures were available. The findings of the FEIR determined that there were mitigating policies included in the 2013 General Plan that would lessen the impacts, but that they would not reduce the impacts to less than significant. The City adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations Finding that the benefits of the General Plan outweigh the significant and unavoidable impacts to aesthetic resources.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.1(a,c) (Scenic Vista, Visual Character)– No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will improve SR-116 and re-align the intersection of W. Cotati Ave. with SR-116. The Project area is not identified on Figure 5.2 of the General Plan which designates Hilltops and Steep Hillsides.

The surrounding land uses are commercial and residential and there are no agricultural lands adjacent to the Project area. The Project site does not have any creek corridors visible. Views of the mountains from the roadways will not be impacted by the proposed upgrades as the only project components that will be above visible height will be the traffic signals and streetlights, which are typical element of the urban environmental. The Project will result in the removal of trees along the public right of way and to accommodate the realignment of W. Cotati Ave. However, any trees removed will be replaced in compliance with Chapter 17.54 as required by Condition of Approval (COA) BIO-5. As conditioned, the Project would not substantially alter the visual character or visual 234 of 1574
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5.2(b) (Scenic Highways) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR SR-116 is not an officially designated state scenic highway but is eligible for designation by the State of California Department of Transportation Scenic Highways Program.2 The section of SR-116 that encompasses the Project is in a commercial corridor inside the Urban Growth Boundary and not within the portion that is bordered by open space and agricultural lands. The Project would add bike and pedestrian facilities as well as right- and left-hand turn lanes. As the Project is limited to City and Caltrans compliance roadway improvements, it would not block scenic vistas on either side of the road and would not substantially change the scenic vistas or character of the road. As such, the Project will not result in a substantial new or more severe impact relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.4(d) (Lighting and Glare) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project includes the installation of signalization and new street lighting as will be necessary for public health and safety. New lighting will be installed along the multi-use path for pedestrians and bicycles, and new street lighting will be installed along SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave in accordance with Caltrans Highway standards and City street lighting standard to ensure traffic safety. The Project site is located in an urbanized area with existing sources of lighting including streetlights, traffic signals, headlights from vehicles, and exterior lighting on adjacent properties. New light sources introduced by the Project would be required to meet City and Caltrans design standards. As such, the Project would not result in a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area and will not result in a substantial new or more severe impact relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CON 3.19: Utilize trees, both new and existing, to provide visual screening of power lines and other infrastructure within public rights-of-way, without compromising the safety and function of above-ground utility lines.

Status: The Project will include landscaping and tree planting in compliance with Caltrans Highway Design Manual which includes landscaping standards as well as the Cotati Municipal Code. Through the uniform application of these standards and requirements, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Action CON 3k: Continue implementing the City Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance (Chapter 17.54 of the Municipal Code).

Action CON 3p: The City shall continue to implement the landscape and tree ordinance to give preference to native and drought tolerant species. The Planning Division shall review and revise as necessary.
2 Caltrans. California State Scenic Highway System Map. Website: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscapearchitecture-and-community-livability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways. Accessed: July 10, 2023. 235 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 30 of 136 CEQA Analysis Status: The Project will result in the removal of trees to accommodate proposed improvement to the circulation network as planned for in the City’s General Plan Circulation Element. Through the implementation of COA BIO-5 which requires compliance with the City of Cotati Municipal Code Chapter 17.54, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Action OS 1f: Review all development proposals, planning projects, and infrastructure projects to ensure that open space and scenic resource impacts are reduced by maximizing design features that preserve a sense of open space and by minimizing off‐site and night sky impacts of outdoor lighting consistent, with the requirements of the Land Use Code.

Status: The Project is required to comply with the CalTrans Design Manual, specifically Chapters 890 Stormwater and Chapter 900 Landscape Architecture which provide requirements for pervious surfaces and landscaping along State Highways. Through the implementation of these standards, landscaping will be used to maximize and preserve a sense of open space. Further, new street lighting will be limited to what is required to protect public health and safety. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions of Approval
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and as conditioned would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to aesthetics relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Environmental Condition of Approval BIO-5 would apply to the Project to implement requirements of the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions. 236 of 1574
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5.2. AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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 nonagricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
contract?
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))?
d) Result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest land to non-forest
use?
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?
Sources: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program; Sonoma County Permit Sonoma GIS, Williamson Act Contracts, 2019; and USGS Land Cover Classification System.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The City of Cotati General Plan EIR determined that approximately 36.42 acres of Farmland of Local Importance within the City limits may be converted to urbanized land uses upon full buildout of the General Plan. The 36.42 acres of Farmland of Local Importance are not under Williamson Act 237 of 1574
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• Impact 3.9-3: Implementation of the General Plan would not result in the conversion of farmland, including Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, and Farmland of Statewide Importance. While implementation of the 2013 General Plan would result in the future urbanization of a small amount of Farmland of Local Importance, over 90 percent of the Important Farmlands within the Planning Area would be preserved and protected for ongoing viable agricultural use upon buildout of the General Plan. As such, this impact is considered less than significant.
• Impact 3.9-4: Implementation of the General Plan would not conflict with existing farmlands, agricultural zoning, or Williamson Act Contracts and would have a less than significant impact. • The City of Cotati General Plan EIR determined that there are no lands within or adjacent to the city that are currently zoned as forest land, timber, or timber production. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan would have no impact on forest land, timber, or timber production.
• There is no agriculturally zoned land within City limits, and the 36.42 acres of Farmland of Local Importance may be converted to urbanized land uses, which are not under any Williamson Act Contract and represent less than nine percent of the total acreage of Important Farmlands evaluated within the Planning Area.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.2 (a-e) (Farmland, Agricultural Land, Forest Land) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
There are no farmland, agricultural lands, or forest lands within or adjacent to the Project. The Project site includes the existing two-lane Gravenstein Highway (SR-116), W. Cotati Ave. and vacant and undeveloped parcels zoned for commercial uses. The Project also includes an 18-foot-wide strip of land along the northside of the SR-116 between 500 feet west of Alder Ave. to Redwood Drive that will be used for public improvements. These sites either have commercial uses or are designated and zoned for commercial uses.

None of the Project parcels are designated as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance pursuant to FMMP nor forestland pursuant to Section 12220(g) of the Public Resources Code. In addition, the site is not zoned for agricultural use or designated as a Williamson Act contract. As such, project impacts to agricultural resources will be equal or less severe than impacts identified in the General Plan EIR.

There are no applicable mitigating policies or actions in the 2013 General Plan EIR. 238 of 1574
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The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to agricultural and forestry resources relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. No Conditions of Approval are required beyond compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations. 239 of 1574
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5.3. AIR QUALITY
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable air
quality plan?
b) Result in a cumulatively considerable
net increase of any criteria pollutant for
which the Project region is in nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant concentrations?
d) Result in other emissions (such as
those leading to odors) adversely
affecting a substantial number of people?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; BAAQMD 2017 Bay Area Clean Air Plan; and BAAQMD CEQA Guidelines, April 2022; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024. State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024; and CalEEMod Detailed Report prepared by M-Group on April 26, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to air quality and determined that with implementation of General Plan Policies and Actions that mitigate potential impacts, impacts to air quality would be less than significant. The following impacts to air quality were considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.2-1: Implementation of the General Plan would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 2.1 – CON 2.12, CON 3.1- CON 3.20, LU 1.4, LU 1.5, LU 2.3, LU 2.5, LU 2.9, LU 2.10, LU 3.2, LU 3.8, CI 1.2, CI 1.6, CI 1.9, CI 1.17 – CI 1.21, CI 2.17 – CI 2.19 and mitigating Actions CON 2a – CON 2g, CON 3a – CON 3r, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.2-2: Implementation of the General Plan would not cause health risks associated with toxic air contaminants. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON

2.1- CON 2.3, CON 2.5 and mitigating Actions CON 2a – CON 2d, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
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• Impact 3.2-4: Implementation of the General Plan would not conflict with Regional Plans and would have a less than significant impact.

National and State Regulations
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets nationwide emission standards for mobile sources that include on-road motor vehicles and non-road vehicles and equipment, which captures trucks and equipment used in construction. The EPA has established nationwide fuel standards, however the State may set motor vehicle emission standards and standards for fuel that are at least as stringent as national standards. In the past decade, the EPA has established numerous standards for heavy-diesel engines, which are a significant source of NOX and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5). Diesel particulate matter (DPM) has been identified by the EPA as a probable carcinogen.

Implementation of the standards are estimated to reduce particulate matter and NOX emissions from diesel engines up to 95 percent in 2030, when the heavy-duty fleet is completely replaced by newer emission compliant vehicles. The EPA has also substantially reduced the amount of sulfur, a significant contributor to formation of particulate matter in diesel engine exhaust, allowed in diesel fuels. The federal diesel engine and diesel fuel requirements have been adopted by California, with modifications in some cases containing more stringent requirements or sooner implementation dates.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) establishes statewide standards for emissions reductions.

CARB has developed a plan to reduce diesel emission, the Risk Reduction Plan to Reduce Particulate Matter Emission from Diesel-Fueled Engines and Vehicles. In addition to requiring more stringent emission standards to aim for a reduction of particulate matter emission by 90 percent in new mobile sources and stationary diesel engines, the plan includes emission control strategies for existing diesel vehicles and engines. CARB has also adopted regulations to reduce DPM and NOX emission from existing and new off-road heavy-duty diesel vehicles, which include certain construction equipment.

Regulations intended to reduce particulate matter and NOX exhaust equipment include replacing older equipment with newer equipment or conducting retrofits.

Bay Area Air Quality Management District
The City of Cotati is located within the San Francisco Bay Area air basin and regulated by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), the agency responsible for planning, implementing, and enforcing air quality standards within the Bay Area Air Basin, including within the City of Cotati. The Bay Area Air Basin is designated as non-attainment for both the one-hour and eight-hour state ozone standards, 0.09 parts per million (ppm) and 0.07 ppm, respectively. The Bay Area Air Basin is also in non-attainment for PM10 and PM2.5 state standards, which require an annual arithmetic mean (AAM) of less than 20 µg/m3for PM10 and less than 12 µg/m3for PM2.5. In addition, the Basin is designated 241 of 1574
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The air quality analyses in the 2013 General Plan EIR relied on prior BAAQMD screening criteria and clean air plans. Since preparation of the General Plan EIR, the BAAQMD has adopted the 2017 Bay Area Clean Air Plan (CAP). On April 20, 2022, BAAQMD adopted new CEQA thresholds for determining the level of significance for development and infrastructure projects along with new screening criteria.

Local Regulation
The City developed a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Action Plan which is further discussed in the Greenhouse Gas Impacts Evaluation.

The 2013 General Plan EIR determined that implementation of the General Plan would result in less than significant impacts with the following mitigating policies: Policies CON 2.1- CON 2.12, CON 3.1- CON 3.20, LU 1.4, LU 1.5, LU 2.3, LU 2.5, LU 2.9, LU 2.10, LU 3.2, LU 3.8, CI1.2, CI 1.6, CI 1.9, CI 1.17-

1.20, CI 1.21, and CI 2.17- 2.19 and Actions CON 2a-2d and 3a-3r.

The 2013 General Plan EIR determined that the implementation of the General Plan would be consistent with the Regional Transportation Plan and would not impede efforts to reduce air quality emissions at the regional level.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR
The Project site is located in San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin (SF Air Basin) within the Cotati Valley Region. Wind patterns in the Cotati Valley are strongly influenced by the Petaluma Gap, with winds flowing predominantly from the west (BAAQMD 2017a). Cotati Valley has a potential for reduced air quality due to a larger population, industrial facilities in and around Santa Rosa, and increased motor vehicle traffic and the associated air contaminants.

The Bay Area meets all ambient air quality standards with the exception of ground-level ozone, respirable particulate matter (PM10) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). In Sonoma County, measured levels of air pollutants are below air quality standards, including ozone, PM10 and PM2.5. High ozone levels are caused by the cumulative emissions of reactive organic gases (ROG) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These precursor pollutants react under certain meteorological conditions to form high ozone levels. Controlling the emissions of these precursor pollutants is the focus of the Bay Area’s attempts to reduce ozone levels. The highest ozone levels in the Bay Area occur in the eastern and southern inland valleys that are downwind of air pollutant sources. High ozone levels aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reduced lung function, and increase coughing and chest discomfort.

Particulate matter is assessed and measured in terms of respirable particulate matter or particles that have a diameter of 10 micrometers or less (PM10) and fine particulate matter where particles have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less (PM2.5). Elevated concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 are the result of both region-wide (or cumulative) emissions and localized emissions. High particulate matter levels 3 On January 9, 2013, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule to determine that the Bay Area attains the 24- hour PM2.5 national standard. This rule suspends key State Implementation Plan requirements as long as monitoring data continues to show that the Bay Area attains the standard. Despite this EPA action, the Bay Area will continue to be designated as “non-attainment” for the national 24-hour PM2.5 standard until such time as the Air District submits a “redesignation request” and a “maintenance plan” to EPA, and EPA approves the proposed redesignation. 242 of 1574
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Toxic air contaminants (TAC) are a broad class of compounds known to cause morbidity or mortality (usually because they cause cancer) and include, but are not limited to, the criteria air pollutants listed above. TACs are found in ambient air, especially in urban areas, and are caused by industry, agriculture, fuel combustion, and commercial operations (e.g., dry cleaners). TACs are typically found in low concentrations, even near their source (e.g., diesel particulate matter near a freeway). Because chronic exposure can result in adverse health effects, TACs are regulated at the regional, State, and Federal level.

Diesel exhaust is the predominant TAC in urban air and is estimated to represent about three quarters of the cancer risk from TACs (based on the Bay Area average). According to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), diesel exhaust is a complex mixture of gases, vapors and fine particles. This complexity makes the evaluation of health effects of diesel exhaust a complex scientific issue. Some of the chemicals in diesel exhaust, such as benzene and formaldehyde, have been previously identified as TACs by the CARB, and are listed as carcinogens either under the state's Proposition 65 or under the Federal Hazardous Air Pollutants programs.

5.3(a,b,d) (Conflict with Plan, Criteria Pollutants, Odors) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
An Air Quality Analysis was prepared using the California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod) on April 26, 2024. The analysis includes the improvements to SR-116 and the construction of the new section of West Cotati Ave. The analysis includes the project design using the following measures to reduce emissions:
• Use Cleaner-Fuel Equipment
• Limit Heay-Duty Diesel Vehicle Idling
• Water Exposed Surfaces two times daily
• Use Low-VOC Paints for Striping
The most recent and comprehensive air quality plan is the Bay Area 2017 Clean Air Plan. The primary goals of the Clean Air Plan are to attain air quality standards, reduce population exposure and protect public health, and reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. The BAAQMD has also developed CEQA guidelines to assist lead agencies in evaluating the significance of air quality and GHG impacts.

In formulating compliance strategies, BAAQMD relies on the planned land uses identified in local general plans. Land use planning affects vehicle travel, which, in turn, affects region-wide emissions of air pollutants and GHGs. The plan includes CEQA Thresholds which are seen below in Table 5.3.1.

These thresholds determine whether the Project would have construction and operational emissions below the BAAQMD thresholds.
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Criteria Air Pollutant
Construction Thresholds Operational Thresholds
Average Daily Emissions
(lbs/day)
Average Daily
Emissions
(lbs/day)
Annual Average
Emissions
(tons/year)
ROG 54 54 10
NOx 54 54 10
PM10 82 (Exhaust) 82 15
PM2.5 54 (Exhaust) 54 10
CO Not Applicable 9.0 ppm (8-hour average) or 20.0
ppm (1-hour average)
Fugitive Dust Construction Dust
Ordinance or other BMP Not Applicable
Health Risks and Hazards
Single Sources Within
1,000-foot Zone of
Influence
Combined Sources (Cumulative
from all sources within 1,000-foot
zone of influence)
Excess Cancer Risk >10 per one million >100 per one million Hazard Index >1.0 >10.0
Incremental annual PM2.5 >0.3 µg/m3 >0.8 µg/m3
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Land
Use
Projects
– (Must
Include
A or B)
A. Projects must include, at a minimum, the following project design elements:

1. Buildings
a. The Project will not include natural gas appliances or natural gas plumbing (in both residential and nonresidential development).
b. The Project will not result in any wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary energy usage as determined by the analysis required under CEQA Section 21100(b)(3) and Section 15126.2(b) of the State CEQA Guidelines.

2. Transportation
a. Achieve a reduction in project-generated vehicle miles traveled (VMT) below the regional average consistent with the current version of the California Climate Change Scoping Plan (currently 15 percent) or meet a locally adopted Senate Bill 743 VMT target, reflecting the recommendations provided in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research’s Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA:
i. Residential projects: 15 percent below the existing VMT per capita ii. Office projects: 15 percent below the existing VMT per employee iii. Retail projects: no net increase in existing VMT
b. Achieve compliance with off-street electric vehicle requirements in the most recently adopted version of CALGreen Tier 2.

B. Be consistent with a local GHG reduction strategy that meets the criteria under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b).

Source: BAAQMD’s April 2022 CEQA Air Quality Guidelines Note: BMP = Best Management Practices, ROG = reactive organic gases, NOx = nitrogen oxides, PM10 = course particulate matter or particulates with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 micrometers (µm) or less, PM2.5 = fine particulate matter or particulates with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5µm or less; 244 of 1574
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The Project would generate temporary air quality emissions associated with site preparation and demolition, ground disturbance, the operation of heavy-duty construction equipment, workers traveling to the site, and the delivery of materials to the Project site. These activities would create temporary emissions of fugitive dust from site grading, and the release of toxic air contaminants, particulate matter, and ozone precursors (ROG and NOx) from combustion of fuel and the operation of heavy-duty construction equipment.

To estimate the emissions from construction of the Project, the California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod) Version 2022.1.1.16 was used (Appendix E). CalEEMod is a statewide model designed to provide a uniform platform to quantify air quality emissions from land use projects, which allows for projection of emissions from on-site construction activity, construction vehicle trips, and evaporative emissions. The construction build-out scenario including equipment list and schedule, were based on default values in CalEEMod. Emissions are calculated based on the whole project being completed at one time over the course of 60 working construction days.

Average daily emissions were computed by dividing the total construction emissions by the number of active workdays. Table 5.3.2 shows the average daily construction emissions of ROG, NOX, PM10 exhaust, and PM2.5 exhaust during construction of the Project. As indicated in Table 5.3.2, predicted annualized project construction emissions would not exceed the BAAQMD significance thresholds during construction.

Table 2 Construction Period Emissions
Year ROG NOx PM10 PM2.5
Construction Emissions Per Year (Tons)
2025 0.14 1.24 0.20 0.07
Average Daily Construction Emissions Per Year (pounds/day) 2025(based on 60
construction
work days)

0.79 6.79 10.1 0.36
BAAQMD
Threshold
(lbs/day)
54 54 82 54
Exceed
Threshold?
No No No No
Construction activities, particularly during site preparation and grading, would temporarily generate fugitive dust in the form of PM10 and PM2.5. Sources of fugitive dust would include disturbed soils at the construction site and trucks carrying uncovered loads of soils. Unless properly controlled, vehicles leaving the site would deposit mud on local streets, which could be an additional source of airborne dust after it dries. The BAAQMD CEQA Air Quality Guidelines consider these impacts to be less-thansignificant if best management practices are implemented to reduce these emissions. To ensure that emission reduction measures consistent with the BAAQMD-recommended basic control measures for reducing fugitive particulate matter are taken, COA AQ-1 has been established to require the implementation of BAAQMD Best Management Practices to reduce fugitive dust emissions. As conditioned construction of the Project will not result in a substantial new or more severe impacts relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
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The Project will re-align an existing roadway, West Cotati Avenue, and make intersection and roadway improvements for safety as well improve pedestrian and bike facilities. As the Project is limited to safety and pedestrian/bicycle improvements, and does not include additional travel lanes, the Project will not result in additional emissions at operation beyond those generated on the existing roadway.

The new pedestrian and bicycle facilities will provide alternative methods of transportation. As such, operation of the Project will not create directly or indirectly new emissions and will not result in a substantial new or more severe impacts relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.3(c) (Sensitive Receptors) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR Construction equipment and associated heavy-duty truck traffic generates diesel exhaust, which is a known toxic air contaminant (TAC). Although exhaust would not be considered to contribute substantially to air quality violations, construction exhaust emissions may still pose health risks for sensitive receptors (e.g., nearby residents).

CARB has identified the following persons who are most likely to be affected by air pollution: children under 16, the elderly over 65, athletes, and people with cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases. These groups are classified as sensitive receptors. Locations that may contain a high concentration of these sensitive population groups include residential areas, hospitals, daycare facilities, elder care facilities, elementary schools, and parks. For cancer risk assessments, children are the most sensitive receptors, since they are more susceptible to cancer causing TACs. Residential locations are assumed to include infants and small children. The closest sensitive receptors to the site are the existing residents in the single-family homes on Gillman Road to the south of 116 and west of W. Cotati Ave. of the Project site, and other single-family homes in the surrounding area. Additional sensitive receptors are located approximately 600 feet away in the Cottages on Alder Avenue north of the Project site. The Thomas Page Academy is within 0.25 miles of the Project but over 1,000 feet from the Project and separated by a vegetation buffer. New residential uses are proposed and approved but not yet constructed on parcels north of SR-116.

The primary community risk impacts associated with construction emissions are cancer risk and PM2.5 exposure. Project construction activities would generate dust and equipment exhaust that could affect nearby sensitive receptors. Project impacts to existing sensitive receptors would likely occur for temporary construction activities. Because the Project will not increase the capacity or traffic on SR116, there would be no impacts from long-term operational conditions. There are also several sources of existing TACs and localized air pollutants in the vicinity of the Project (e.g. project area roadways and stationary source emitters). In order to limit the effects of temporary construction on sensitive receptors, COA AQ-2 is imposed. COA AQ-2 requires contractors to reduce diesel particulate matter emissions by using enhanced measures. Through the implementation of COA AQ-2, the Project will not result in a substantial new or more severe impacts relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CON 2.2: Minimize exposure of sensitive receptors to concentrations of air pollutant emissions and toxic air contaminants.

Status: As required by COA AQ-1 and COA AQ-2, the Project is required to implement Best Management Practices and enhanced measures that will reduce emissions from PM10 and PM 2.5 246 of 1574
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Therefore, as conditioned, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CON 2.5: Continue to require all construction projects and ground disturbing activities to implement BAAQMD dust control and abatement measures.

Status: As conditioned by COA AQ-1, the Project is required to implement dust control measures and as such, complies with this policy.

Action CON 2b: Refer development, infrastructure, and planning projects to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) for review. Require project applicants to prepare air quality analyses to address BAAQMD and General Plan requirements, which include analysis and identification of:
• Air pollutant emissions associated with the Project during construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
• Potential exposure of sensitive receptors to toxic air contaminants. • Significant air quality impacts associated with the Project for construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
• Mitigation measures to reduce significant impacts to less than significant or the maximum extent feasible where impacts cannot be mitigated to less than significant.

Status: Project construction emissions were calculated using CalEEMod. The estimated emissions have been referenced in the discussions above. Recommendations to minimize air quality emissions have been imposed on the Project as COA AQ-1 and COA AQ-2. As conditioned, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Condition of Approval
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and as conditioned would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to air quality relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions:

COA AQ-1: The City of Cotati shall require all contractors to implement the following dust control and exhaust measures during any construction period ground disturbance:

1. All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day.

2. All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered.

3. All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited.

4. All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 miles per hour (mph). 247 of 1574
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5. All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. Building pads shall be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used.

6. Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]).

Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points.

7. All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation.

8. Each contractor shall post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and person to contact regarding dust complaints. This person shall respond and take corrective action within 48 hours. The Air District’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

COA AQ-2: All contractors shall implement a Construction Minimization Plan including feasible measures to reduce diesel particulate matter emissions using enhanced measures as follows:

1. All off-road mobile construction equipment larger than 25 horsepower used at the site for more than two continuous days or 20 hours total shall meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 emission standards for PM (PM10 and PM2.5). Note that engines meeting the U.S. EPA Tier 2 or 3 standards that include particulate matter emissions control equivalent to CARB Level 3 verifiable diesel emission control devices would meet this standard.

2. Provide line power to the site during the early phases of construction to minimize the use of diesel-powered stationary equipment.

3. Alternatively, use zero-emission or non-diesel fueled equipment 248 of 1574
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5.4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Change
Relative
to
General
Plan EIR
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
(Formerly Fish and Game) or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional
plans, policies, regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(formerly Fish and Game) or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service?
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?
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?
e) Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological resources,
such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance?
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?
249 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 44 of 136 CEQA Analysis Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; Final Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy, 2005, USFWS; Recovery Plan for the Santa Rosa Plain, 2016, USFWS; Reinitiation of Formal Consultation on Issuance of Clean Water Act, Section 404 Permits by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) on the Santa Rosa Plain, Sonoma County, California, 2020, USFWS. Highway 116 and West Cotati Ave. Project Aquatic Resources Delineation Map prepared by Monk & Associates on August 23, 2023. Highway 116 and West Cotati Ave. Project Biological Resource Assessment prepared by Monk and Associates October 26, 2023; Special Status Plant Survey Report Year 2 prepared by Monk and Associates on June 5, 2024; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
Biological resources are protected by federal and state statutes including the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), and the Clean Water Act (CWA). The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which affords protection to migratory bird species including birds of prey, which apply to the Project. These regulations provide legal protection for identified plant and animal species of concern and their habitat and a basis for many of the applicable General Plan policies.

The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to biological resources in Chapter 3.3 and determined the following:
• Impact 3.3-1: Implementation of the General Plan could 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 Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1 – CON 1.14, OS 1.1, OS 1.4 and mitigating Actions CON 1a – 1k, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.3-2: Implementation of the General Plan could have a substantial adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1 – CON 1.3.

CON 1.7 – 1.14 and mitigating Actions CON 1a, CON 1b, CON 1f, CON 1g – 1k, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.3-3: Implementation of the General Plan could have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1 – CON 1.3, CON 1.7 – CON 1.14 and mitigating Actions CON 1a, CON 1b, CON 1g - CON 1k, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.3-4: Implementation of the General Plan Update could interfere substantially with the movement of native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1 – CON 1.4, CON 1.8 – CON 1.14, 250 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 45 of 136 CEQA Analysis OS 1.1, OS 1.4, and mitigating Actions CON 1a, CON 1b, CON 1d, CON 1e - CON 1j, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.3-5: Implementation of the General Plan could conflict with local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance.

Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policy CON 1.13 and mitigating Actions CON 3k, CON 3l, CON 3o, and CON 3p, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.3-6: Implementation of the General Plan Update would not conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation Plan, and as such, would have a less than significant impact.

The 2013 General Plan EIR concluded that construction and maintenance activities associated with future development projects under the proposed General Plan could result in the direct and indirect loss or indirect disturbance of special-status wildlife or plant species or their habitats as well as wetlands and Waters of the United States that are known to occur, or have potential to occur, in the region.

These impacts are mitigated by General Plan Policies CON 1.1-1.14 which provide a framework for protecting, enhancing, rehabilitating, and avoiding sensitive habitat areas including waterways. These policies include requirements for discretionary projects to develop in an environmentally sustainable manner. Furthermore, actions required by the General Plan that mitigate the impacts include Action CON 1a and 1b which requires all development project proposals to submit a biological resources evaluation which determines whether significant adverse impacts will occur and to include mitigation measures as needed. These are further supported by additional Actions CON 1c and 1d, 1f, and 1g which require project review and mapping of sensitive habitats and conservation.

Furthermore, Policy CON 3.13 requires the City to continue to implement the City’s Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance and consistent with local policies to protect and preserve biological resources.

Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy, Recovery Plan, and Reinitiation Plan The City of Cotati does not have a habitat conservation plan, but it is located within the boundary of the Santa Rosa Plain (SRP). The SRP is a unique environment that supports a mosaic of vernal pool, seasonal wetland, and grassland habitats, which provide a home to the threatened and endangered species. The Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy (Conservation Strategy) was developed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in 2005 to create a long-term conservation program sufficient to mitigate potential adverse effects on listed species due to future development on the Santa Rosa Plain. The conservation strategy provides specific actions necessary to mitigate potential adverse effects on listed species due to future development on the Plain.

The Recovery Plan for the Santa Rosa Plain was released by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in June 2016 and provides a framework for the recovery of listed species. Subsequently, in 2020, the USFWS published the reinitiation of formal consultation on issuance of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for the Santa Rosa Plain. The reinitiation of the Biological Opinion analyzes the 251 of 1574
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Though not a habitat conservation plan, the Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy Plan, Recovery Plan, and Reinitiation Plan are intended to mitigate potential adverse impacts on listed plant and animal species within the Plan area. The Plans establish a long-term conservation program to mitigate potential adverse impacts associated with development in the Santa Rosa Plain, conserve and contribute to the recovery of the listed species and the conservation of sensitive habitat, protect public and private land use interests, and support issuance of an authorization for incidental take of CTS and that may occur in the course of carrying out a broad range of activities in the Santa Rosa Plain area.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR
A Biological Resource Analysis (BRA) Report was prepared by Monk and Associates on September 8, 2023 (Appendix B). The report includes the results of research conducted on California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Natural Diversity Database and in-person general surveys of the Project site conducted on May 3, 2023. The BRA also includes an Aquatic Resources Delineation. In accordance with the Santa Rosa Plain survey guidelines, three surveys for special-status plants were conducted on May 3, 2023, May 25, 2023, and June 7, 2023. In accordance with the Santa Rosa Plain Biological Opinion, a second year of surveys were conducted on April 8, April 30, and May 14, 2024.

The Project site is located on the southwestern boundary of the Santa Rosa Plain. Historically this area was characterized by a mosaic of oak and riparian woodlands and seasonal wetlands including vernal pools. The distribution of these natural communities and habitats has been significantly reduced, and much of the remaining area has been reduced in quality as a result of agriculture, rural residential, and commercial development.

5.4(a) (Special-Status Species) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR In compliance with General Plan Conservation Element Action CON 1b, a site-specific Biological Resource Assessment (BRA) was performed. The BRA found that plant cover in the Project area is dominated by non-native grasses and forbs (i.e., broad-leaved plants) and is predominantly ruderal.

Special Status Plants
Seven special status plant species are known to occur in the region of the Project site. None of these special-status plants have been mapped on or adjacent to the Project site, with the exception of Sebastopol meadowfoam which was mapped more than 20 years ago and which is now extirpated.

Owing to the excessively disturbed conditions found at the Project site, special-status plants are not likely to occur. The site could provide marginally suitable habitat for three federally and state-listed plants: the Sebastopol meadowfoam (Limnanthes vinculans), Sonoma sunshine (Blennosperma bakeri) and Burke’s goldfields (Lasthenia burkei).

Two years of rare plant surveys on the Project site were completed as required by the USFWS Biological Opinion for the Santa Rosa Plain in 2023 and 2024. These surveys followed all CDFW (2018) 252 of 1574
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Although federally and state-listed plants were not observed and are unlikely to be found due to the low-quality habitat onsite, per the Programmatic Biological Opinion (USFWS 2020), seasonal wetlands on the site are regarded by USFWS to be “suitable habitat.” Consequently, impacted seasonal wetlands on the Project site are required to be mitigated as “suitable” listed plant habitats. Therefore, COA BIO1 requires the purchase of preservation or establishment credits for Sebastopol meadowfoam at a ratio of 1.5:1 from a USFWS-approved mitigation bank(s) located in the same Core Area as the Project site.

Special Status Animals
A total of 10 special-status animal species are known to occur in the region of the Project site but no evidence of these species was found in the Project area during site surveys. However, the Project site is located within the known range of the Sonoma County “Distinct Population Segment” (DPS) of the California tiger salamander (CTS). Under the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), the USFWS emergency-listed the Sonoma County DPS as endangered on July 22, 2002. On March 4, 2010, CDFW state-listed CTS as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA).

The roadside ditches and the seasonal wetlands along the Project site are not deep enough and do not hold water long enough to support a CTS breeding attempt to successful metamorphosis. Further, there are no CTS breeding pools within 500 feet of the Project site and no potential breeding pools within one mile of the site. The closest historic occurrence, now extirpated, was approximately 0.17 miles directly northeast of the Project site. There has been no breeding habitat in the vicinity of the Project site since the only two confirmed breeding habitats were filled (and mitigated) over 20 years ago.

Due to an absence of suitable breeding habitat on the Project site and within 1.3 miles of the Project site, it is very unlikely that CTS remain in the immediate area today. Especially given the fact that their known over-summering habitat was mass graded and the elevation on that property was changed by the addition of clean fill. The possibility of CTS migrating into the Project area today is very low because habitats are no longer suitable for this species.

Regardless, the Project site is within federally designated Critical Habitat and falls within the USFWS Recovery Plan’s West Cotati Core CTS area. As required by the Biological Opinion (USFWS 2020), because of the designation, the Project must mitigate impacts on CTS habitat. According to the Programmatic Biological Opinion, for projects that are greater than 500 feet and within 2,200 feet of a known breeding site, and for projects beyond 2,200 feet from a known breeding site, but within 500 feet of a non-breeding occurrence, mitigation is required at a ratio of two square feet for every one square foot of impact to upland habitat (2:1). In accordance with the Biological Opinion, because the site is greater than 500 feet and within 2,200 feet of a known breeding site, COA BIO-2 requires the purchase of CTS mitigation credits at a ratio of 2:1 prior to the issuance of a grading, demolition, or building permit.

Migratory Birds
253 of 1574
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In accordance with the 2013 General Plan Policy Action CON1a, COA BIO-1 through BIO-3 are imposed as conditions of approval to ensure that the Project will not have impacts on special status species. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to special status species relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.4(b,c) (Sensitive Natural Communities, Jurisdictional Waters) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project site contains roadside ditches, seasonal wetlands, linear wetlands, and topographic low areas. One topographic low area, wetland W2, drops one meter below the surrounding area (Appendix B). There is a reinforced concrete pipe (16” diameter) located near this wetland that runs under the highway. Additionally, there is another topographic low area along West Cotati Avenue (a roadside ditch wetland) where there is a decrease in elevation of one meter compared to the rest of the site. Roadside ditches along SR 116 are lower than the rest of the Project site; these roadside ditches were formed when SR 116 was constructed.

The Project site has 7,076 square feet or 0.162 acres of jurisdictional wetlands which include wetlands and linear wetlands. Additionally, there are non-jurisdictional wetlands which include isolated wetlands, and roadside ditches. As identified on the Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination Map confirmed by the Army Corps of Engineers on January 23, 2024, (Appendix B) some low areas are isolated and do not have connectivity to the city storm drain system and are identified as isolated wetlands.

Seasonal wetlands were characterized by a dominance of hydrophytic vegetation and hydric soils.

Hydrophytic (wetland) plant species identified in the mapped wetlands includes various species of rushes (Juncus xiphioides, J. phaeocephalus, and J. patens), curly dock (Rumex crispus), perennial ryegrass (Festuca perennis), and western yellow cress (Rorippa curvisiliqua) among others. The largest seasonal wetland is roughly 2,253 square feet (0.052 acre) in size and is dominated by the native wetland grass: annual semaphore grass (Pleuropogon californicus californicus).

A few linear wetlands and roadside ditches were identified on the Project site. These linear features follow along the roads and are long and narrow. One of these roadside wetlands is dominated by western yellow cress (Rorippa curvisiliqua) and annual semaphore grass (Pleuropogon californicus californicus). Another is dominated by the native Douglas’ meadowfoam (Limnanthes douglasii douglasii) and non-native annual bluegrass (Poa annua).

Water that is captured in the wetlands and other connected low areas flow into the city storm drain system off the Project site. During storm events, these seasonal wetlands and roadside ditches within the Project site boundaries flow to the city storm drain system, which then flows out to the Laguna de 254 of 1574
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The shallow, human-altered topographic low areas and ditches on the Project site are highly ephemeral and receive urban runoff which make them nearly unsuitable for any type of wildlife use.

As such these areas are not considered sensitive natural communities.

Nonetheless, the Project would potentially impact approximately 0.06-acre of waters of the U.S. and approximately 0.05-acre of non-federal waters of the State. The 2013 General Plan EIR identifies the potential to impact wetlands and identifies mitigating policies. In accordance with General Plan Actions CON 1a and 1b, the Project is subject to COA BIO-4 which requires that the loss of waters of the U.S. and State be compensated via the purchase of wetland credits from a Corps- and RWQCBapproved wetland mitigation bank at no less than a 1:1 ratio.

As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to sensitive natural communities or jurisdictional wetlands relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.4(d) (Wildlife Movement) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project site is a linear corridor along a heavily traveled highway (SR-116) and city street (West Cotati Avenue). It does not provide a corridor suitable for wildlife movement due to the presence or vehicles, roadway pavement, and surrounding urban development. As such, the Project will not substantially interfere with the movement of any native species or native nursery site. Accordingly, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to wildlife movement relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.4(e) (Conflict with Policies or Ordinances) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project is subject to the City of Cotati Tree Ordinance, Cotati Municipal Code Chapter 17.54 which regulates the protection, preservation and maintenance of native trees, trees of historic or cultural significance, groves and stands of mature tree, and mature trees in general that are associated with proposals for development. The re-alignment of West Cotati Ave. and improvements to SR-116 will result in the removal of trees including trees that require a tree permit for removal. In order to ensure that the Project complies with the City of Cotati Tree Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 17.54) and Policy CON 1.6, COA BIO-5 requires that prior to commencing site preparation, grading, or construction, a tree removal, replacement, and preservation plan shall be prepared and tree removal and replacement shall comply with City of Cotati Municipal Code Chapter 17.54. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impacts through conflicts with local ordinances relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.4(f) (Conflict with a Habitat Conservation Plan) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
Sonoma County does not have any California Regional Conservation Plans, as identified in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (CDFW) Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) 255 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 50 of 136 CEQA Analysis Map. The Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy Plan (SRPCSP) and the Recovery Plan were reviewed to assess the Project’s potential to impact any protected plant or animal species. The SRPCSP mapping (Figure 3 dated 4.16.2007) shows that the Project site is in an area designated as “Future Development.” The Project site is not located within a “Conservation Area” of the Santa Rosa Plain according to the Recovery Plan (Figure 1 dated 5.30.2015). Accordingly, the USFWS anticipated that this project site would be developed when it prepared the Conservation Strategy.

The USFWS 2007 Programmatic Biological Opinion is based on the biological framework presented in the Conservation Strategy. Projects that require a Corps permit, that remain consistent with objectives stated in the Conservation Strategy, can be appended to the Programmatic Biological Opinion at the discretion of the USFWS. Projects that are appended to the Programmatic Biological Opinion will be provided individual take authorization for impacts to federally-listed species.

As described in 5.4 (a-d) above, development of the Project will result in impacts to California tiger salamander habitat and a seasonal wetland. COAs BIO-1 though BIO-3 require the purchase of mitigation bank credits for these special-status species at replacement ratios identified in the USFWS’ 2007 Programmatic Biological Opinion (or any successor Programmatic Biological Opinion) and are in accordance with the Policies of the General Plan and the Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy and Recovery Plan. Therefore, the Project does not conflict with any local policies or adopted conservation plans, and the Project, as conditioned, will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impacts through conflicts with a habitat conservation plan relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Action CON 1a: Require development project proposals, infrastructure projects, long-range planning projects, and other projects that may potentially impact special-status species and sensitive resources to submit a biological resources evaluation which determines whether significant adverse impacts will occur. Evaluations shall be carried out under the direction of the Community Development Department and consistent with applicable state and federal guidelines. Projects shall be designed to avoid or reduce impacts to the maximum extent feasible. Where adverse impacts cannot be feasibly reduced or avoided through project design, projects shall include the implementation of site-specific or project-specific effective mitigation strategies developed by a qualified professional in consultation with state or federal resource agencies with jurisdiction (if applicable) that may include, but are not limited to, the following strategies:
a. Preservation of habitat and connectivity of adequate size, quality, and configuration to support the special-status species. Connectivity shall be determined based on the specifics of the species' needs.
b. Project design measures, such as clustering of structures or locating project features to avoid known locations of special-status species and/or sensitive habitats. c. Provision of supplemental planting and maintenance of grasses, shrubs, and trees of similar quality and quantity to provide adequate vegetation cover to enhance water quality, minimize sedimentation and soil transport, and provide adequate shelter and food for wildlife. d. Protection for habitat and the known locations of special-status species through adequate buffering or other means.
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g. Provision of temporary or permanent buffers of adequate size (based on the specifics of the special-status species) to avoid nest abandonment by nesting migratory birds and raptors associated with construction and site development activities. h. Incorporation of the provisions or demonstration of compliance with applicable recovery plans for federally listed species.
i. Monitoring of construction activities by a qualified biologist to avoid impacts to on-site special status species.

Action CON 1b: Where sensitive biological habitats have been identified on or immediately adjacent to a project site, the Project shall include appropriate mitigation measures identified by a qualified biologist, which may include, but are not limited to the following:
a. Pre-construction surveys for species listed under the State or Federal Endangered Species Acts, or species identified as special-status by the resource agencies, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist;
b. Construction barrier fencing shall be installed around sensitive resources and areas identified for avoidance or protection; and
c. Employees shall be trained by a qualified biologist to identify and avoid protected species and habitat.

Status: A Biological Resource Assessment was prepared for the Project site in compliance with the Santa Rosa Plain survey guidelines. The BRA identifies species and habitat communities and recommends measures to avoid and offset impacts which are captured in COA BIO-1 - BIO 5. As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy.

Policy CON 1.5: Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate plant species native to the region into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.

Status: The Project is subject to the City of Cotati Land Use Code Section 17.34 Water Efficient Landscaping Standards which requires the Project to select appropriate native species for plant material. Through the application of uniform standards, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CON 1.6: Avoid removal of large, mature trees that provide wildlife habitat or contribute to the visual quality of the environment to the greatest extent feasible through appropriate project design and building siting. If full avoidance is not possible, prioritize planting of replacement trees on-site over off-site locations.

Status: The Project will result in the removal of trees that may provide nesting bird habitat and contribute to the visual quality of the area. COA BIO-5 requires compliance with Cotati Municipal Code

17.54 which includes tree protection, preservation, and replacement requirements. COA BIO-3 requires that nesting bird surveys be conducted prior to the initiation of construction. As conditioned, the Project is consistent with this policy.
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 52 of 136 CEQA Analysis Policy CON 1.7: Consult with all resource agencies during the CEQA review process for proposed developments to help identify wetland and vernal pool habitat that has candidacy for restoration, conservation, and/or mitigation. Focus restoration and/or conservation efforts on areas that would maximize multiple beneficial uses for such habitat and provides opportunities for mitigation banking.

Status: An aquatic resources delineation was completed as part of the Biological Resource Assessment. The report was sent to the Army Corps of Engineers for review and confirmation of jurisdictional waters. COA BIO-4 requires compensation for the loss of waters of the U.S. and State via the purchase of wetland credits from a US Army Corps of Engineers- and Regional Water Quality Control Board-approved wetland mitigation bank at no less than a 1:1 ratio. As such, the Project complies with this Policy.

Policy CON 3.13: Continue to implement the City’s Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance (Chapter 17.54 of the Municipal Code).

Status: The Project site has both native oaks and non-native trees subject to the City of Cotati’s Tree Protection Ordinance. COA BIO-5 requires a tree preservation and replacement plan and requires that the City apply for a tree removal permit in compliance with Chapter 17.54 prior to the commencement of any site preparation, grading, or construction. Any trees removed shall be replaced in compliance with Table 5-2 in the Tree Protection Ordinance, or as otherwise required by the City of Cotati. As conditioned, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions of Approval
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and as conditioned would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to biological resources relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval are required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

COA BIO-1: In accordance with agency regulations and per the 2020 Programmatic Biological Opinion for the Santa Rosa Plain, vernal pool conservation credits shall be purchased for impacts to suitable Sebastopol meadowfoam habitat at a 1.5:1 ratio. Credits shall be purchased prior to the commencement of site preparation, grading, or demolition.

COA BIO-2: Prior to site preparation, demolition, or grading, California Tiger Salamander mitigation credits shall be purchased from a USFWS approved Conservation Bank at a ratio of 2 square feet of mitigation for every square foot of upland habitat (2:1).

COA BIO-3: Nesting bird and bat surveys shall be conducted within 15 days prior to commencing any phase of construction work if the work would begin between February 1 and August 31. The nesting bird survey shall be conducted on the Project site and within a zone of influence around the Project site.

COA BIO-4: Prior to demolition, grading, or building, credits from a US Army Corps of Engineersand Regional Water Quality Control Board-approved wetland mitigation bank shall be purchased at a ratio of no less than 1:1 to compensate for the loss of waters of the U.S. and State. 258 of 1574
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5.5. CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of a historical resource
pursuant to § 15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to § 15064.5?
c) Disturb any human remains, including
those interred outside of dedicated
cemeteries?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and Cultural Resources Evaluation, Archaeological Study for the Gravenstien Highway (SR116)/West Cotati Realignment Project prepared by Evans and DeShazo on September 28, 2023.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings:

The 2013 General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to cultural resources in Chapter 3.4. Within the Cotati Planning Area, 36 resources have been recorded of which 7 are prehistoric Native American archaeological sites, and 2 are historic-period archeological sites, and 27 are built environment resources, 31 of which are within City limits. The 2013 General Plan EIR evaluated the following impacts:
• Impact 3.4-1: Implementation of the General Plan Update could result in the substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical or archaeological Resource. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 4.1, CON 4.3 – CON 4.6, and mitigating actions CON 4a – CON 4c, and CON 4f, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.4-2: Implementation of the General Plan could result in the disturbance of human remains. Through the implementation of General Plan Policies CON 4.2 and Action CON 4c and compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, the implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.5(a-c) (Historic Resources, Archaeological Resources and Discovery of Human Remains) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
260 of 1574
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According to information on file at the NWIC, approximately 95% of the Project Area has been previously surveyed for cultural resources and there have been 21 other cultural resource studies previously completed within 0.25-miles of the Project Area. NWIC records indicate 13 previously recorded cultural resources within 0.25-miles of the Project Area, including 12 built environment resources and one historic-period archaeological resource. Further, the BERD of Sonoma County lists 73 resources in Cotati, 21 of which are located near the Project site. The 2013 General Plan EIR lists 47 buildings within the City of Cotati that are potentially eligible for the California Register of Historic Resources, five of which are located near the Project site.

Adjacent to the Project site, the Pedestrian Field Survey identified three adjacent commercial buildings along the north side of Hwy 116, east of Alder Drive and north of the Project Area; two commercial properties (Shamrock Building Materials and Reliable Crane & Rigging, Inc.) and one residential property (P-49-000042) along the south side of Hwy 116, south of the Project Area; along West Cotati Avenue are several modern houses to the west and a vacant field with a row of eucalyptus to the east.

In addition to eucalyptus trees, the Project Area also contains California black oak and valley oak trees along the northern boundary, and poison hemlock, silver wattle acacia, blackwood acacia, and chicory along the northern and southern boundaries of the highway. On the Project site, the survey resulted in the identification of a eucalyptus tree windrow (aka, windbreak) that, based on historical research, was present by 1942. The windrow extends southwest-northeast for approximately 160 feet along the boundary between APNs 144-050-004 and 144-050-005. The windrow consists of eight large eucalyptus trees with about 15-20 small “volunteer” eucalyptus trees, ranging from about 11 to 80 inches in diameter.

While the eucalyptus tree windrow dates prior to 1942, it is not eligible to be listed as an Historical Resource in the CRHR, because it:
• is not associated with events that made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history of the cultural heritage of California or the U.S. (CRHR Criterion 1); • is not associated with the lives of persons important to local, California, or U.S. history (CRHR Criterion 2);
• does not embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction or represents the work of a master or possesses high artistic values (CRHR Criteria 3);
• has not yielded or have the potential to yield information important to history of the local area, California, or the U.S. (CRHR Criterion 4).

The Project site includes a paved two-lane highway with unpaved shoulders and undeveloped land.

Based on a review of the historical information available, the Project site has a low potential for buried historic-period archaeological resources because prior to the construction of SR 116 and West Cotati 261 of 1574
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While there is limited potential for buried pre-contact resources, the 2013 General Plan Action CON 4c requires the implementation of specific actions in the event of an inadvertent discovery.

Accordingly, COA CUL-1 requires the implementation of Action CON 4c if cultural resources or human remains are discovered during ground-disturbing project activities.

As conditioned, the Project implements policies of the General Plan for treatment of cultural and paleontological resources and will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to cultural resources relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CON 4.2: Ensure that human remains are treated with sensitivity and dignity and ensure compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98.

Action CON 4c: Require all development, infrastructure, and other ground-disturbing projects to comply with the following conditions in the event of an inadvertent discovery of cultural resources or human remains:
a. If construction or grading activities result in the discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or unique paleontological resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall cease, the Community Development Department shall be notified, the resources shall be examined by a qualified archaeologist, paleontologist, or historian for appropriate protection and preservation measures; and work may only resume when appropriate protections are in place and have been approved by the Community Development Department. b. If human remains are discovered during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the Community Development Department and the County Coroner have been contacted; if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and the most likely descendants have been consulted; and work may only resume when appropriate measures have been taken and approved by the Community Development Department.
c. If construction or grading activities result in the discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or unique paleontological resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall cease, the Community Development Department shall be notified, the resources shall be examined by a qualified archaeologist, paleontologist, or historian for appropriate protection and preservation measures; and work may only resume when appropriate protections are in place and have been approved by the Community Development Department. d. If human remains are discovered during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the Community Development Department and the County Coroner have been contacted; if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and the most likely descendants have been consulted; and work may only 262 of 1574
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Status: COA CUL-1 requires implementation of the actions described in Action CON 4c to address potential discovery of archeological resources and human remains during construction. As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy and this action.

Conclusion and Environmental Condition of Approval:

The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and as conditioned, will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to cultural resources relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

CUL-1: In the event that cultural resources or human remains are inadvertently discovered during ground disturbing activities, the following conditions shall apply:
a. If construction or grading activities result in the discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or unique paleontological resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall cease, the Community Development Department shall be notified, the resources shall be examined by a qualified archaeologist, paleontologist, or historian for appropriate protection and preservation measures; and work may only resume when appropriate protections are in place and have been approved by the Community Development Department.
b. If human remains are discovered during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the Community Development Department and the County Coroner have been contacted; if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and the most likely descendants have been consulted; and work may only resume when appropriate measures have been taken and approved by the Community Development Department. • If the skeletal remains are found to be prehistoric, Native American and not modern, then the coroner must call the Native American Heritage Commission in Sacramento that will designate the “Most Likely Descendant” (or MLD) of the discovered remains. The MLD will be responsible for recommending the disposition and treatment of the remains (before construction is resumed).

Although the likelihood of encountering human skeletal remains in the project area seems slight, it is important to have a procedure for alternate tasks that can be put into effect quickly in the event that human remains are discovered. This allows for work to continue elsewhere on the project area (where appropriate given the size of the property and location of the discovery) while the remains are properly investigated.
c. If construction or grading activities result in the discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or unique paleontological resources, all work within 100 feet of the discovery shall cease, the Community Development Department shall be notified, the resources shall be examined by a qualified archaeologist, paleontologist, or historian for appropriate protection and preservation measures; and work may only 263 of 1574
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d. If human remains are discovered during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the Community Development Department and the County Coroner have been contacted; if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and the most likely descendants have been consulted; and work may only resume when appropriate measures have been taken and approved by the Community Development Department. 264 of 1574
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5.6. ENERGY
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Result in a potentially significant
environmental impact due to wasteful,
inefficient, or unnecessary consumption
of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local
plan for renewable energy or energy
efficiency?
Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Sonoma Clean Power 2021 Annual Report; BAAQMD 2017 Bay Area Clean Air Plan; Climate Action 2020 and Beyond: Sonoma County Regional Climate Action Plan, prepared by Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority, July 2016; BAAQMD 2017 CEQA Guidelines; and City of Cotati Municipal Code; CalEEMod Detailed Report prepared by M-Group on April 26, 2024; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings:

Energy resources include fuels, renewable resources, and production of electricity which requires conversion of these resources into energy. Energy production and energy use result in depletion of non-renewable energy resources such as oil, coal, and natural gas, the use of which results in pollutant emissions that contribute to global climate change. Sustainable use of energy resources is facilitated through conservation of non-renewable resources and development of alternative or renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, and geothermal.

The Cotati General Plan EIR analyzed the impacts to energy resources in Chapter 3.6 – Greenhouse Gasses and Climate Change. The policies and implementing actions relating to energy conservation are included in Chapter 5: Conservation of the General Plan and addressed under Goal 3 which promotes conservation of energy and other natural resources. The General Plan EIR specifically identifies the following energy-specific General Plan Policies CON 2.10, CON 3.1 – CON 3.10, LU 1.5, and Actions CON 3a – 3d which would result in a less than significant impact to Green House Gas Emissions and Climate Change and are applicable to this section.

Sonoma County Climate Action Plan 2020
In 2005, the ten local governments within Sonoma County pledged to reduce GHG emissions community-wide to 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2015 (Cotati adopted 30% by 2015, Resolution 05-66). The Regional Climate Protection Authority (RCPA) was created in 2009 to help each jurisdiction reach its goal. Climate Action 2020 is a collaborative effort led by the RCPA and includes nine cities, 265 of 1574
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Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.6 (a,b) (Energy Consumption, Conflict with State or Local Plans) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
Construction of the Project will utilize equipment that will utilize energy and fuels. As noted in Chapter

5.3 Air Quality of this document, construction of the Project is required to implement BAAQMD Best Management Practices and enhanced measures identified in COA AQ-1 and COA AQ-2. This includes limitations on idling and proper maintenance for equipment. These requirements will ensure that no wasteful use of energy will occur during the construction of the Project. Upon completion, on-going maintenance and the operation of the lighting and signals will require energy necessary for safety and operation. As such, the energy used for ongoing operation would not be wasteful. Any landscaping will be required to comply with the Model Water Efficiency Landscaping Ordinance (MWELO) which requires the use of plants that have limited water needs. As such the Project would not result in inefficient, wasteful, or unnecessary consumption of energy.

The signalization of the intersection and bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements support the City’s goals in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan and are intended to encourage alternative modes of transportation. Additionally, the Project is consistent with the Sonoma County Climate Action Plan 2020, Goal 5 which encourages a shift toward low-carbon transportation options. The Project is also consistent with Measure 5-L4: Supporting bicycle/pedestrian measures. As such, operation of the Project does not conflict with state or local plans to reduce energy usage and includes infrastructure to support active transportation options.

As conditioned, the Project will not result in the wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources during construction or operation and the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CON 2.12: Encourage public transit, ridesharing and van pooling, shortened and combined motor vehicle trips to work and services, use of bicycles, and walking. Minimize single passenger motor vehicle use.

Status: The design of the Project includes improvements for bikes and pedestrians as well as connectivity with the City’s bicycle and pedestrian network that will encourage bicycle and pedestrian use along SR-116. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CON 3.6: Ensure that street layout and design minimizes the use of pavement to the greatest extent feasible in order to reduce cooling energy needs.

Status: The Project includes improvements to SR-116 to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Widths of all lanes and paths are designed as required for safety and accessibility per the City’s Street standards and the Caltrans Design Standards. The final design is subject to the Caltrans landscaping requirements as well as the City’s requirements for street tree planting. Through uniformly applied standard, the Project minimizes the use of pavement to the greatest extent feasible.

As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.
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Status: The Project will improve SR-116 to accommodate pedestrian and bike facilities, realign W.

Cotati Ave, and signalize the intersection. COA AQ-1 and COA AQ-2 require project contractors to reduce emissions through best management practices and enhanced measures to reduce emissions that will also reduce energy usage. These include measures such as limiting idling. Further, the Project is required to comply with local, regional, and state Stormwater regulations and will not result in an increase in usage of water, sewer, or energy resources. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Condition of Approval:

The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to energy relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Environmental Condition of Approval AQ-1 and AQ-2 is applied to the Project to implement requirements of the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions. 267 of 1574
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5.7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Would The Project:

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
Publication 42.

II. Strong Seismic ground shaking?
III. Seismic-related ground failure,
including liquefaction?
IV. Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the
loss of topsoil?
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?
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?
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?
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paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024; CA Department of Conservation online Geologic Maps accessed June 14, 2023; and City of Cotati Municipal Code; and Custom Soil Resource Report prepared using USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Websoil pulled by M-Group on August 16, 2023.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The City of Cotati is in a geologically active area of the San Andreas Fault system and the potential for ground shaking from seismic events is a risk throughout the region. Active faults are located four miles or more to the east, north, and west, but no active faults traverse the City.

The General Plan EIR evaluated the potential impacts related to geology and soils in Chapter 3.5 and determined the following.
• Impact 3.5-1: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving rupture of a known earthquake fault, strong seismic ground shaking, seismic- -related ground failure, including liquefaction. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 1.8, SA 2.1 - 2.11 and Actions SA 2a – SA 2k, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.5-2: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies SA 2.5 -SA 2.10 and Actions SA 2d and SA 2f, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.5-3: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to 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. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies SA 2.1 – SA 2.9 and Actions SA 2a – SA 2i, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.5-4: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to result in development on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18--1--B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies SA 2.1- SA 2.3, SA 2.11 and Actions SA 2a – 2c, SA 2e, SA 2h, and SA 2i, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.5-5: Implementation of the General Plan does not have the potential to 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. Because there are no 269 of 1574
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The 2013 General Plan EIR found that the implementation of the 2013 General Plan could have significant impacts on Geology and Soils but determined that those impacts were mitigated to less than significant through the implementation of Policies CSF 1.8, SA 2.1- 2.11 and Actions SA 2a-2k.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.7(a i-ii) (Seismic Hazards) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project site is located approximately 1.5 miles north of the Tolay Fault, 3 miles east of the Bloomfield Fault, and 5 miles east of the Americano Creek Fault none of which are Alquist Priolo Fault Zones. The Project is approximately 4 miles west of the Rodgers Creek Fault Zone and 15 miles east of the San Andreas Fault, both of which are Alquist Priolo fault zones.

The Project will be engineered in accordance with CalTrans Design Standards. These standards ensure that the road will be designed to limit substantial adverse effects including the risk of loss, injury, or death due to seismic hazards. Through the implementation of uniformly applied standards, the Project will not have substantial adverse effects from seismic hazards and the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to seismic hazards relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.7(a iii) (Liquefaction) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project has an underlying soil of HaB—Haire fine sandy loam, hummocky, 0 to 5 percent slopes and there are no known earthquake faults on the Project site and is located in an area identified as having low and moderate risk of liquefaction.4 As established by COA GEO-1, prior to final design and engineering, a Geotechnical Report shall be completed including an assessment of liquefaction potential and any design elements to address liquefaction. Through the implementation of uniformly applied standards, the Project will not have substantial adverse effects from liquefaction and the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to liquefaction hazards relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.7(a-iv) (Landslides) – No Change Relative to the General Plan The Project site is not in an area identified in General Plan Map Figure 10.1 Geologic and Soil Hazards as very high landslide potential. Additionally, the area of the Project is shown as having zero landslide susceptibility according to the California Department of Conservation Landslide Susceptibility Map most recently updated on September 29, 2021.5 Because there is no risk of landslides in or affected by the Project area, the Project will not have substantial adverse effects from landslides and the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to landslide hazards relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 4 California Geological Society. CA Bay Area Liquefaction Risk. Updated June 22, 2014. Accessed: August 16, 2023. 5 California Department of Conservation. Landslide Susceptibility Map. Website:
https://cadoc.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=3cdc744bec6b45c28206e472e8ad0f89 Accessed: August 16, 2023. 270 of 1574
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5.7(b) (Erosion) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR Chapter 14.36 of the Cotati Municipal Code which requires an erosion control plan prepared by a Civil Engineer or other qualified professional that outlines appropriate measures to minimize soil erosion and sedimentation and that complies with design and construction standards contained in the City’s Municipal Code. Prior to commencing site work, a stormwater control plan and erosion control plan are required by COA HYD-1. As conditioned, the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to erosion relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.7(c, d) (Geologic Stability, Expansive Soils) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project includes improvements to a segment of the existing highway SR-116 and the realignment of the intersection with West Cotati Ave. A geotechnical report will be prepared and include recommendations to ensure that geotechnical considerations are properly addressed such as soil compaction, treatment, and appropriate grade. COA GEO-1 has been established to ensure preparation of the analysis and report. The final design plans will comply with the standards required by Caltrans Highway Design Manual. Through the implementation of the uniform standards, the Project will not result in adverse impacts due to expansive soil, or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project. As conditioned and through compliance with City and Caltrans street standards, the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to geologic stability relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.7(e) (Septic Tanks) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will not introduce any new wastewater facilities. As such, the Project is consistent with the findings of the 2013 General Plan EIR and the Project would not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to septic tanks relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.7(f) (Paleontological Resources) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The potential to uncover undiscovered paleontological resources was considered in the 2013 General Plan EIR, in which Action CON 4c is identified, and requires work to be suspended within 100 feet of any discovered potentially unique paleontological resources and for the City to be contacted to coordinate further investigation. In compliance with Action CON 4c, COA CUL-1 is imposed on the Project. COA CUL-1 requires specific protocol to be followed if paleontological resources are encountered during ground disturbing activities. As conditioned and pursuant to Action CON 4c, the Project complies with the General Plan and will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to paleontological resources relative to the General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy SA 2.10: An erosion and sediment control plan prepared by a civil engineer or other professional who is qualified to prepare such a plan, shall be submitted as part of a grading permit application. The erosion and sediment control plan shall delineate measures to appropriately and 271 of 1574
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Status: The 35% plans include a drainage plan for the Project. HYD-1 requires the preparation of a final Stormwater Control Plan including an erosion and sediment control plan prior to issuance of a building permit or commencing any phase of road construction. As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy.

Action SA 2a: Require a geotechnical analysis for construction in areas with potential geological hazards and require that recommendations from the geotechnical analysis are incorporated into the Project’s design and engineering.

Status: COA GEO-1 has been established to ensure that the geotechnical analysis is completed prior to final design and engineering. As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Condition of Approval
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to geology and soils relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Environmental conditions of approval COA CUL-1 and COA HYD-1, as well as the following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

COA GEO-1: Prior to final design and engineering (100% plan set) a geotechnical analysis and report shall be completed by a geotechnical engineer. The report shall include subsurface soil conditions and recommendations for design if poor subsurface conditions exist. The recommendations shall be incorporated into the final design and engineering and implemented in the construction of the Project. 272 of 1574
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5.8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,
either directly or indirectly, that may have
a significant impact on the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy
or regulation adopted for the purpose of
reducing the emissions of greenhouse
gases?
Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; and BAAQMD CEQA Guidelines, April 2022; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024; and CalEEMod Detailed Report prepared by M-Group on April 26, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to air quality and determined that with implementation of General Plan Policies and Actions that mitigate potential impacts, impacts to air quality would be less than significant. The following impacts to air quality were considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.6-1: General Plan implementation could generate GHGs, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant effect on the environment. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 2.6 - CON 2.12, CON 3.1 - CON 3.6, CON 3.8 - CON 3.12, CI 1.2, CI 1.19 – CI 1.21, CI 2.1 – CI 2.3, CI 2.7 – CI 2.10, CI 2.21, CI 3.1 – CI 3.4, LU 1.4, LU 1.5, LU

2.2, LU 2.5, LU 2.10, LU 3.8, OS 1.1 – OS 1.6, OS 1.10, OS 1.11 and Actions CON 2e, CON 2f, CON 2g, CON 3a – CON 3d, CI 1q, CI 2a, CI 2i – CI 2k, CI 3a, CI 3b, LU 2b, and OS 1a - OS 1e, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.6-2: Implementation of the General Plan would not constitute an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.

The General Plan is consistent with the CCAP and AB 32 and as new projects are required to fully implement the City’s Green Building Standards. Compliance with the City’s Green Building Standards would reduce GHG emissions from future development to the greatest extent feasible and implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

A number of regulations currently exist related to GHG emissions, predominantly AB 32, Executive Order S-3-05, and Senate Bill (SB) 32. AB 32 sets forth a statewide GHG emissions reduction target of 1990 levels by 2020. Executive Order S-3-05 sets forth a transitional reduction target of 2000 levels by 2010, the same target as AB 32 of 1990 levels by 2020, and further builds upon the AB 32 target by requiring a reduction to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. SB 32 also builds upon AB 32 and sets 273 of 1574
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Caltrans/Statewide Highway System CEQA Guidance
In September of 2020, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) released the Transportation Analysis under CEQA subtitled “Evaluating Transportation Impacts of State Highway System Projects.” While the Bay Area Air Quality Management District provides guidelines for development projects, infrastructure projects are not specifically addressed by the BAAQMD CEQA Guidelines. The Transportation Analysis Framework (TAF) and Transportation Analysis under CEQA (TAC) guide transportation impact analysis for projects on the State Highway System (SHS) as part of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has prepared these documents to guide implementation of Senate Bill (SB) 743 (Steinberg, 2013). The TAF and TAC establish Caltrans guidance on how to analyze induced travel associated with transportation projects and how to determine impact significance under CEQA, respectively. These documents guide transportation impact analysis for projects on the State Highway System.

Sonoma County Climate Action Plan 2020
As presented in the Sonoma County Climate Action Plan 2020, the City of Cotati’s GHG inventory in 2010 resulted in the emission of 52,060 metric tons of CO2e per year (MT CO2e/yr) and a per capita emission level of 7.2 MT CO2e/yr. A backcast effort identified 1990 emission levels at 51,480 MT CO2e/yr and a per capita emission level of 9.0 MT CO2e/yr. 5.8.2 presented below provides the forecast emission levels for the City of Cotati.

Table 3: GHG Emission Forecasts
2020 Forecast 2040 Forecast 2050 Forecast
Total Emissions 61,350 68,980 70,900
Per Capita Emissions 7.9 7.8 7.5
Sonoma County Climate Action Plan 2020 Table 5.2-3 Cotati Community.

The City of Cotati will achieve GHG reduction targets through a combination of state, regional and local measures. At the state level, fuel efficiency standards, Title 24 building standards, low carbon fuel standard, and RPS are estimated to achieve a GHG reduction of 13,710 MTCO2e by 2020. Regional efforts are projected to achieve a GHG reduction of 4,070 MTCO2e through activities carried out by the Regional Climate Protection Authority, Sonoma Water, County of Sonoma Energy Independence Office, Sonoma County Transportation Authority, and Sonoma Clean Power. Locally, the City of Cotati is expected to realize a GHG reduction of 1,550 MTCO2e through implementation of Measure 11-L1 (Senate Bill SB X7-7 – Water Conservation Act of 2009), Measure 2-L4 (Solar in Existing Non-Residential Buildings), and Measure 2-L2 (Solar in Existing Residential Buildings).

On March 27, 2018, the Cotati City Council adopted Resolution 2018-15 reaffirming its intent to reduce GHG emissions as part of a coordinated effort through the Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority.
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5.8(a) (Greenhouse Gas Generation) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will realign W. Cotati Avenue to improve safety and widen SR-116 to add pedestrian and bicycle facilities, turn lanes and safety upgrades. The Project will not create or induce new vehicular traffic and will provide critical infrastructure and improved safety for alternative modes of transportation. The new signalization will utilize electric energy and have negligible impacts on Greenhouse gas emissions.

Construction GHG Emissions
The Project construction phase, as noted in the Air Quality section above, will last for an estimated 60 days and have a an estimated 1,674 lbs/day of CO2e emissions. However, the Project will minimize emissions by complying with the BAAQMD best management practices as required by COA AQ-1.

Additionally, COA AQ-2 requires a Construction Minimization Plan including enhanced measures to reduce emissions. Because construction emissions are temporary and variable, the BAAQMD has not developed a quantitative threshold of significance for construction related GHG emissions but recommends that lead agencies quantify and disclose GHG emissions that would occur during construction and that projects should incorporate best management practices for reducing GHG emissions from construction-related activities. These measures are addressed in COA AQ-1 and COA AQ-2, and therefore, the construction of the Project would not have a not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to greenhouse gas emissions relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Operation GHG Emissions
The Caltrans Guidance for determining whether a State Highway System Transportation project will have VMT or GHG impacts is to use the Transportation Analysis under CEQA (TAC). The TAC screens projects for impacts based on whether the project will be a non-capacity-increasing or capacityincreasing project. In accordance with the Office of Planning and Research (OPR)’s technical advisory the following types of projects are non-capacity-increasing projects:
• Rehabilitation, maintenance, replacement, safety, and repair projects designed to improve the condition of existing transportation assets (e.g., highways; roadways; bridges; culverts; Transportation Management System field elements such as cameras, message signs, detection, or signals; tunnels; transit systems; and assets that serve bicycle and pedestrian facilities) and that do not add additional motor vehicle capacity are considered non-capacityincreasing. • Installation, removal, or reconfiguration of traffic lanes that are not for through traffic, such as left, right, and U-turn pockets, two-way left turn lanes, emergency truck pullovers, or emergency breakdown lanes that are not utilized as through lanes are also considered noncapacity-increasing projects. • Addition of new or enhanced bike or pedestrian facilities on existing streets/highways or within existing public rights-of -way.
• Addition of Class I bike paths, trails, multi-use paths, or other off-road facilities that serve nonmotorized travel.

The Project will realign the intersection of W. Cotati Ave. and SR-116 to improve safety and create turn lanes that are not for through traffic. Additionally, it includes additional and enhanced bike and 275 of 1574
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5.8(b) (Conflict with Plans) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will implement a project identified in both the City’s General Plan and the Active Transportation Plan (ATP). The improvements provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities and additional safety through signalization consistent with Goal 5: Encourage a Shift Toward Low-Carbon Transportation Options and Measure 5-L4: Supporting Bicycle/Pedestrian Measures in the Region’s Climate Action Plan, Climate Action 2020 and Beyond. As the Project is consistent with the existing plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CI 3.1 Actively support the Regional Climate Protection Authority (RCPA) in its efforts to reduce GHG emissions to a level that is 25% below 1990 levels by 2015 and 40% below 1990 levels by 2035.

Action CON 2e: Continue to review new development, significant remodels, and infrastructure projects for consistency with county-wide Climate Action Plan 2020.

Status: The Project will improve access, safety, and the quality of facilities for alternative modes of transportation including walking and biking. As such, the Project is consistent with Goal 5: Encourage a Shift Toward Low-Carbon Transportation Options and Measure 5-L4:

Supporting Bicycle/Pedestrian Measures in the Region’s Climate Action Plan, Climate Action 2020 and Beyond. As such, the Project is consistent with the county-wide Climate Action Plan 2020.

Policy CON 2.11: Preserve, protect and enhance, as appropriate, the City’s carbon sequestration resources, also referred to as “carbon sinks,” to improve air quality and reduce net carbon emissions.

Status: The Project will result in the removal of trees, however, through the implementation of COA BIO-5, the Project is required to comply with City of Cotati Municipal Code Chapter

17.54 which requires replacement of trees that are removed. As conditioned, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CON 3.6: Ensure that street layout and design minimizes the use of pavement to the greatest extent feasible in order to reduce cooling energy needs.

Status: The Project includes a Class 1 multi-use pathway that will be separated from the road.

A landscaping plan including trees will be prepared as part of the final plans. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.
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The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and as conditioned will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to Greenhouse Gas Emissions relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Environmental Condition of Approval AQ-1 and AQ-2 are applied to the Project to implement requirements of the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions. 277 of 1574
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5.9. HAZARDS/HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Create a significant hazard to the public
or the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous
materials?
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?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous
materials, substances, or waste within
one-quarter mile of an existing or
proposed school?
d) Be located on a site that is included on
a list of hazardous materials sites
compiled pursuant to Government Code
Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would
create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment?
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 of public use airport, would
the Project result in a safety hazard or
excessive noise for people residing or
working in the Project area?
f) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan?
g) Expose people or structures, either
directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of
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fires?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; California Code, Health and Safety Code Section 25501(n)(1); Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2021, prepared by Tetra Tech Consultants for Permit Sonoma, October 2021; Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, prepared by Harris and Lee Environmental Sciences, LLC on July 12, 2023; GeoTracker, managed by the State Water Resources Control Board, June 15, 2023; EnviroStor, managed by the Department of Toxic Substances Control, June 15, 2023; State Route 116 Safety Improvement Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr & Peers on June 4, 2024; and City of Cotati Municipal Code.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials and determined that with implementation of General Plan Policies and Actions that mitigate potential impacts, impacts would be less than significant. The following impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials were considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.7-1: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials, or through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 3.7, CSF 3.8, SA 1.1 – SA 1.7 and Actions CSF 3d, SA 1a – SA 1i, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.7-2: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school. Through compliance with all existing regulations and hazard mitigation plans as well as the implementation of mitigating General Policies CSF 3.7, CSF 3.8, SA 1.1 – SA 1.7 and Actions CSF 3d, SA 1a – SA 1i, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.7-3: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to have projects located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. Through Compliance with state and federal regulations and the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 3.7, CSF 3.8, SA 1.5, SA 1.7, SA

1.9 and Actions CSF 3d, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.7-4: Implementation of the General Plan is not located within an airport land use plan, two miles of a public airport or public use airport, or within the vicinity of a private airstrip, and would not result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the Project area. The City of Cotati does not have any airport facilities located within the city limits, sphere of influence, of urban growth boundary. The City of Cotati does not lie within the Runway Protection Zone, Inner/Outer Safety Zones, Inner Turning Zone, Sideline Safety Zone, or Traffic Pattern Zone for this airport. According to the National Transportation Safety Board Aviation Accident Database, there have been no accidents within the City of Cotati between January of 1950 to January 2014. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
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• Impact 3.7-6: Implementation of the General Plan does not have the potential to expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 2.28 –

2.32, CSF 2.36, SA 1.1 – SA 1.7 and Actions CSF 2o, CSF 2p, SA 1a, and SA 1d, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

The General Plan EIR concluded that implementation of the General Plan would result in less than a significant impact to hazards and hazardous materials through compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations and policies as well as the implementation of mitigating policies CSF 2.28-

2.32, CSF 2.36, 3.7-3.8, SA 1.1- SA 1.7, SA 1.9 and mitigating actions CSF 2o-2p, CSF 3d, SA 1a – 1i.

Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
On September 28, 2021, the City Council of the City of Cotati adopted the Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan to guide pre- and post-disaster mitigation of identified hazards. The plan includes actions to mitigate current risk from hazards and changes in hazard impacts resulting from climate change. Through the County-wide plan, the City will coordinate strategies for hazard mitigation with other planning programs under its jurisdiction, as well as promote and support the mitigation strategies of all County partners.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.9(a-b, d) (Routine Transport, Use, Disposal, Release of Hazardous Materials, Hazardous Materials Sites) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment was conducted by Harris and Lee Environmental Sciences, LLC and a report prepared on July 12, 2023 (Appendix D). The purpose of the Environmental Site Assessment Phase I Investigation is to provide information as to the Recognized Environmental Conditions on or near the Project. Recognized Environmental Conditions are defined with respect to the range of contaminants within the scope of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and petroleum products.

The Project site encompasses the existing roadway as well as portions of parcels that have historically been used for farming. Historically, the southern portion of Parcel 144-050-009 was previously developed with a rural residence and farm building. There are no records of previous activities on the site that resulted in listing on hazardous sites through California EPA Envirostor or the California State Waterboard’s Geotracker site. However, two former Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) sites in the vicinity were completed and remediated. Due to proximity, there is potential that contamination from the LUST sites could exist on the site. These include:
• H-G Equipment, at 8155 Gravenstein Highway, is incorrectly listed as the Target Property in the EDR Radius Report. The site is listed on numerous databases including the LUST site list 280 of 1574
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• ARCO #1341/BP West Coast Products, LLC/AM/PM Mini Market/Sillada Valero/Save On Gas/Walt’s Richfield Service, Leatherwood, Inc., 8505 Gravenstein Highway, is incorrectly listed as the Target Property in the EDR Radius Report. The site is listed on numerous databases including the LUST site list for a release of petroleum hydrocarbons. The site is listed as Completed-Case Closed LUST as of March 11, 2014.
• TOSCO Northwest/Cotati Mobile/BP Service Station/United #5426/Cayo Oil, 8510 Gravenstein Highway, is located approximately 159 feet east of the Subject Property. The property is listed on numerous databases including the LUST site list for a release of petroleum hydrocarbons.

The site is listed as Completed-Case Closed LUST as of March 11, 2014. • Fairfax French Cleaners, 7950 Redwood Drive No. 6, is located approximately 281 feet east of the Subject Property (crossgradient with respect to the expected north-northeasterly direction of groundwater flow). The site is listed on the EDR Hist Cleaners database (2001-2003) and as a RCRA-SQG for use of PCE. No releases associated with the site were identified. • Minatta Transportation Company/Reliable Crane/Minatta Trucking/Facility 49-000-000350, 8184 Highway 116, is located approximately 288 feet west of the Subject Property. The site is listed on several databases for handling and disposal of hazardous waste. Several inspection violations were noted. No spills associated with the site were identified. • Classic Valet Service Not, Inc., 8555 Gravenstein Highway, is located approximately 293 feet east of the Subject Property (crossgradient with respect to the expected north-northeasterly direction of groundwater flow). The site is listed on the EDR Hist Cleaners database (2001- 2003) and as a RCRA-SQG for use of PCE. No releases were identified. • Shamrock Materials/Minatta Trans Co, 8150 Gravenstein Highway, is located approximately 407 feet west of the Subject Property. The property is listed on numerous databases, including the SLIC database for a release of diesel. The site is listed as Completed-Case Closed as of February 26, 1999.

Based on their regulatory status, the above sites are not expected to pose significant environmental risk. However, there is a potential for residual petroleum hydrocarbons in soil, soil vapor, or groundwater (if accessed).

Additionally, the Standard and Additional Environmental Records Search disclosed that due to long term road use, aerially deposited lead (ADL) may be present on the site. ADL is associated with leaded gasoline which was commonly used beginning in the 1920s until it was banned in 1975. However, emissions containing lead may have been deposited in and around areas where leaded gasoline was consumed.

The construction phase of the Project will include grading and trenching as well as repaving. During this work, soils that potentially contain ADLs and petroleum hydrocarbons may be disturbed. In order to ensure that no hazardous materials are released into the environment during the construction of the Project, COA HAZ-1 requires a Lead Compliance Plan (LCP), a Soil Management Plan (SMP), and a Health and Safety Plan (HASP) be prepared in compliance with Caltrans guidelines prior to construction. The plan shall include sampling and analyzing soil for lead and petroleum hydrocarbons, appropriate disposal of any hazardous materials, and health and safety protections for workers handling contaminated soils. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
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5.9(c) (Emit Hazardous Materials within ¼ Mile of a School Sites) - No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
One school site located within 0.25 mile buffer of the Project site. The Thomas Page Academy (the Academy) property line, as shown in Figure 5.9.1, is approximately 830 linear feet from the most northern terminus of the Project site (500 feet west of Alder Ave). The Academy’s northern and eastern boundary is screened by vegetation approximately 1,000 feet in length which separates the school from neighboring parcels. The requirements of COA HAZ-1 will ensure that no hazardous materials are emitted during construction and as such, would not emit hazardous materials within ¼ mile of the school. An additional condition has been added, COA HAZ-2, which requires that the Project contractors notify the school at least 14 days in advance of any earthwork. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Figure 6: Schools within ¼ Mile of the W. Cotati/SR-116 Realignment Project Source: California Department of Education. California Schools 2022-2023 and California Private Schools, 2019. Accessed on July 13, 2023.

5.9(e) (Public Airport Land Use Plans) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR Consistent with the General Plan, the Project site is not located within an airport land use plan, within two miles of a public or private airport, nor within the vicinity of a private airstrip. As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 282 of 1574
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5.9(f,g) (Impair emergency plans, Expose to threats of wildfire) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project will improve roadways and traffic control along SR-116 and West Cotati Avenue.

Signalization and realignment will improve safety during both daily use and in the event of emergency evacuations. The Project includes the installation of signal pre-emption. This means that for any emergency vehicles properly equipped, the signal-preemption flips the signal to green for unimpeded and safer access for emergency vehicles through the intersection.

Further, the realignment of W. Cotati Ave. and improvements to SR-116 will not have any impact on wildfire susceptibility and will improve evacuation routes. As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to emergency plans or wildland fire relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CSF 3.7: Continue to coordinate with Sonoma County to require all businesses and residents to comply with the local and State requirements regarding the proper disposal of toxic and hazardous materials and waste.

Status: Project contractors will be required to implement the conditions in COA HAZ-1 which includes provisions for the proper disposal of any soils that are found to be contaminated. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CSF 2.30: Design and maintain City streets in such a way so as to maintain acceptable emergency vehicle response times.

Status: The Project will realign and signalize the intersection of SR-116 at W. Cotati Avenue, provide bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and will include an 8-foot-wide shoulder. The Project will improve traffic flow which will in turn, improve emergency vehicle response times. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, the Project conditions HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 ensure that the Project is consistent with federal, state, and local regulations for the treatment of hazardous materials as identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site, and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR.

The following environmental conditions of approval are required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

COA HAZ-1: Prior to construction, the City shall prepare a Lead Compliance Plan and a Soil Management Plan in compliance with current Caltrans guidelines, and a worker Health and Safety Plan. The plans shall address:
• Sampling and analysis of soils prior to earth-moving work 283 of 1574
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• worker health and safety during the handling of potentially hazardous soils COA HAZ-2: Project contractors shall notify any schools within 0.25 miles of the Project at a minimum of 14 days before commencing earthwork. The notice shall include:
• the dates and timeframe for earthmoving activities
• the location of the proposed activities
• the potential for any contamination that may be released due to earthwork • the name and phone number of a contact for concerns during project activities 284 of 1574
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5.10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Violate any water quality standards or
waste discharge requirements or
otherwise substantially degrade surface
or ground water quality?
b) Substantially decrease groundwater
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that the
Project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern on the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of a
stream or river or through the addition of
impervious surfaces, 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?
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche
zones, risk release of pollutants due to
project inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of a water quality control
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management plan?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; City of Cotati Municipal Code; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated the potential impacts related to hydrology and water quality in Chapter 3.8 and determined the following.
• Impact 3.8.1- Implementation of the General Plan could result in a violation of water quality standards or waste discharge requirements. Through the implementation of the mitigating Policies CON 1.8 – CON 1.14 and Actions CON 1f – CON 1k, and the requirements of the NPDES Phase 1 MS4 permit and the LID Manual requirements, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.8.2 - Implementation of the General Plan could contribute to the depletion of groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 2.1- CSF 2.15 and Actions CSF 2a - CSF 2g , combined with the City continuing to obtain surface water from the Russian River and reducing the consumption of groundwater, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.8.3 - Implementation of the General Plan could alter the existing drainage pattern in a manner which would result in substantial erosion, siltation, flooding, or polluted runoff.

Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1 , CON 1.2, CON

1.7 – CON 1.14, SA 3.1 – 3.13, Actions CON 1f – CON 1k, SA 3a – 3h, and compliance with state and local regulations, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.8.4 - Implementation of the General Plan could otherwise substantially degrade water quality. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.8 – CON 1.14, Actions CON 1f – CON 1k, and compliance with state and local regulations, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.8.5 - General Plan implementation could place housing and structures within a 100- -year flood hazard area as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies SA 3.1 – SA 3.13, Actions SA 3a – 3h, and compliance with state and local regulations, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.8.6 - Implementation of the General Plan Update would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving flooding as a result of failure of a levee or dam, seiche, tsunami, or mudflow. There are no levees or dams upriver from the 286 of 1574
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The 2013 General Plan EIR found that with the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 1.1, CON 1.2, CON 1.7 - CON 1.14, CSF 2.1-2.15, SA 3.1- SA 3.13 and Actions CON 1f-1k, CSF 2a2g, SA 3a-3h as well as through the application of applicable state and local regulation, impacts to hydrology and water quality were less than significant.

Stormwater Regulation
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is responsible for implementing the Clean Water Act (CWA) and has issued a statewide General Permit for construction, which acts to minimize pollutant runoff to surface waters and groundwater. The City of Cotati is located principally within the North Coast Hydrologic Region which manages the Russian River watershed. Southern portions of the city drain to San Pablo Bay via the Petaluma River and is managed by the San Francisco Bay Hydrologic Region. Within the city there are two hydrologic subareas, the Upper Laguna de Santa Rosa Subarea (Russian River) and the Petaluma River Subarea (San Pablo). Cotati has joined with other permittees in the Santa Rosa Plain under a Phase 1 NPDES permit (Water Quality Order No. R1-2009-0050) (NPDES No. CA0025054) which imposes requirements on municipalities to mitigate for stormwater quality and quantity and provides the Santa Rosa Storm Water Low Impact Development Technical Design Manual (LID Manual) as guidance.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR
The Project will increase the paved surface along the highway and continue to direct run-off into the existing storm drain infrastructure. Modifications to the storm drains will be conducted as needed to ensure adequate drainage and as required to comply with the NPDES permit.

5.10(a) (Stormwater Discharge) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project’s construction activities and the installation of new impervious surfaces have the potential to result in increased runoff that could contain sediment and other pollutants that could degrade water quality if not properly controlled. Sources of potential pollution associated with construction include fuel, grease, oil and other fluids, concrete material, sediment, and litter. These pollutants have the potential to degrade water quality if not properly managed. However, as concluded in the 2013 General Plan EIR, the NPDES requirements, including the preparation and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and compliance with the RWQCB Order No. R1-2009-0045, Waste Discharge Requirements minimize the impacts from future development. The purpose of the SWPPP is to identify potential sediment sources and other pollutants and prescribe BMPs to ensure that potential adverse erosion, siltation, and contamination impacts would not occur during construction activities. The RWQCB requires that that the Project will prepare an SWPPP which must be approved by the RWQCB.

Additionally, the final design and engineering will be required to comply with Chapter 13.68 of the Cotati Municipal Code, which regulates storm water discharge and Chapter 14.36 of the Municipal Code, which contains grading and erosion control requirements. To ensure the final plans comply with these regulations, a condition of approval has been added. COA HYD-1 requires that an SWPPP and Stormwater Control Plan be prepared as part of final design and engineering. 287 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 82 of 136 CEQA Analysis As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impacts to stormwater discharge relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.10(b) (Groundwater) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR Buildout of the Cotati General Plan would result in the introduction of new impervious surfaces that could potentially reduce rainwater infiltration and groundwater recharge. However, the General Plan EIR determined that impacts would be minimal in urban areas since the net change in impervious surfaces would be negligible. The 2013 General Plan EIR further determined that development anticipated under the General Plan would result in less than significant impact due to the depletion of ground water supplies or interference with groundwater recharge. The City has established maximum groundwater extraction volume policies that reduce the drawdown of groundwater and is not expanding use of groundwater supplies.

The State of California adopted the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) in 2014 which called for the creation of local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSA) to develop and implement Groundwater Sustainability Plans for the long-term management of groundwater resources. The Santa Rosa Plain GSA was formed through a joint powers authority (JPA) between the cities of Cotati, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, and Sebastopol, Town of Windsor, County of Sonoma, Sonoma Water, Gold Ridge Resource Conservation District, and Sonoma Resource Conservation District (Sonoma RCD) and has a participation agreement with mutual water companies and CPUC-regulated water corporations that allows for participation in the GSA. The Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) for the Santa Rosa Plain Subbasin was approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) on January 26, 2023. It establishes a standard for sustainability of groundwater management and use and determines how the basin will achieve this standard by 2042.

The Project will not utilize groundwater and the improvements will not alter groundwater recharge or otherwise effect groundwater. Furthermore, the Project is required to comply with guidance from the Bay Area Stormwater Management Agencies Association (BASMAA) Post-Construction Manual, including low impact development strategies and best management practices in site design to mimic pre-project site hydrology as required by COA HYD-2. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.10(c)(i-iv) (Drainage Pattern) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will maintain a similar drainage pattern as currently exists on the site. However, the Project will increase impervious surfaces that will require additional stormwater drainage features. COA HYD3 requires that the City use natural features such as bioswales, vegetation, retention ponds, and other measures to remove pollutants from stormwater and to provide flood control to the maximum extent feasible. Through the implementation of COA HYD-1 - COA HYD-3, the Project will not change the overall drainage pattern of the site and will not result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site, substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or offsite, nor 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.

As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to drainage relative to the General Plan EIR. 288 of 1574
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5.10(d) (Pollutants in Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project is shown in the 500 yr flood plain on the City of Cotati General Plan Figure 10.2 Flooding Hazards. However, the General Plan does not consider the 500-yr flood zone as high risk. Regardless, the Project is designed to manage stormwater which reduces potential release of pollutants during a flood. The Project is not in a tsunami or seiche zone. Therefore, the Project will not place new infrastructure within a flood hazard area and will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to pollutants in flood hazards relative to the General Plan EIR.

5.10(e) (Conflict with Water Quality Control Plan or Sustainable Groundwater Management Plan) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project is conditioned and required to implement all pertinent local, state, and federal agency requirements which will ensure that the Project does not conflict with a Water Quality Control Plan.

As concluded in 5.10(b), as conditioned, the Project will have no change to groundwater and will therefore not impact a Sustainable Groundwater Plan. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact resulting from conflicts with a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CON 1.13: Prioritize the use of natural features such as bioswales, vegetation, retention ponds, and other measures to remove surface water pollutants prior to discharge into surface waters.

Policy SA 3.9: Encourage flood control measures that respect natural drainage features, vegetation and natural waterways, while still providing for adequate flood control and protection Status: In order to ensure compliance with these policies, COA HYD-3 has been added to require that final plans use natural features wherever feasible to remove surface water pollutants and provide flood control and protection. As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy.

Policy SA 3.3: Ensure that construction activities will not result in adverse impacts to existing flood control and drainage structures.

Status: COA HYD-1 requires approval of a SWPPP by the Regional Water Quality Control Board which will ensure that construction of the Project will not result in adverse impacts to existing flood control and drainage structures. As such, the Project complies with this policy.

Conclusion and Environmental Condition of Approval:

The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and 2024 Active Transportation Plan and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to hydrology and water quality relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental conditions of approval are required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 84 of 136 CEQA Analysis COA HYD-1 As part of the final design and engineering, an SWPPP shall be prepared which specifies BMPs that will prevent all construction pollutants from contacting stormwater with the intent of keeping all products of erosion from moving off site into receiving waters. At a minimum, the SWPPP shall identify BMPs for implementation during project construction that are in accordance with the applicable guidance and procedures contained in the California Stormwater Quality Association’s California Stormwater Best Management Practices Handbook (2015).

COA HYD-2: As part of the final design and engineering, an engineer shall prepare and submit SWLID Plan that integrates the most current SWLID Design Manual guidelines.

COA HYD-3: In preparing final design and engineering plans, the City shall use natural features such as bioswales, vegetation, retention ponds, and other measures to remove pollutants from stormwater and to provide flood control to the maximum extent feasible. 290 of 1574
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5.11. LAND USE AND PLANNING
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Physically divide an established
community?
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?
Sources: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to Land Use in Chapter 3.9 and determined the following:
• Impact 3.9-1: General Plan implementation has the potential to physically divide an established community. The proposed General Plan does not include any new areas designated for urbanization or new roadways, infrastructure, or other features that would divide existing communities and would result in a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.9-2: General Plan implementation has the potential to conflict with an applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the Project adopted to avoid or mitigate an environmental effect. Implementation of the General Plan could result in potential adverse environmental impacts, including traffic, noise, water quality, biological resources, drainage and water quality, air quality, hazards, geology/soils, and cultural resources. Through compliance with local, state, and federal regulations as well as the mitigating policies and actions evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR
The Project site is within the Caltrans right of way and on a commercially zoned city-owned property adjacent to existing rights-of-way. The surrounding land uses consists of General Commercial to the north, east, and west of the Project, and Low-Density Residential south of the Project site (Figure 3.

General Plan Land Use). The Project site is zoned General Commercial – Gravenstein Corridor pursuant to the City of Cotati Zoning Map (Figure 4: Zoning). The areas north, east, and west of the 291 of 1574
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5.11(a) (Physically Divide Community) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project would increase the width of the existing SR-116 to accommodate paved shoulders, pedestrian and bike facilities, and infrastructure that will improve connectivity and safety. The proposed realignment and signalization of the W. Cotati Avenue and SR-116 intersection will enhance safety for all modes of transportation including a protected crossing of SR-116. The proposed improvements are consistent with the planned roadway improvements identified in the City’s Circulation Element of the General Plan. As such, the Project would not physically divide a community, but rather advance planned connections identified in the General Plan. Therefore, the Project is consistent with the findings of the 2013 General Plan EIR and the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to physically divide a community relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.11(b) (Conflict with Land Use) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project is identified in General Plan Action CI1b which says: Ensure that future development provides roadway improvements consistent with the Circulation Diagram and implement the roadway improvements identified in the Traffic Impact Fee Study to improve the safety and efficiency of the current circulation system, and to support buildout of the general plan. And includes the following specific project: Construct a minor realignment of West Cotati Avenue to Intersect Gravenstein Highway at an improved angle and install a traffic signal at the intersection.

Additionally, Action CI1c says: Work collaboratively with Caltrans, the County of Sonoma, and the City of Rohnert Park to identify funding sources to complete the following improvements, or improvements of comparative effectiveness, on roadways owned by these agencies and within the City of Cotati. The following specific project is identified in the list: Reconstruct Gravenstein Highway between Madrone Avenue and Redwood Drive to include sidewalks, bicycle lanes, two vehicle travel lanes in each direction, and left turn pockets.

The Project implements these General Plan Action items. Through the environmental review process, conditions of approval have been established to ensure consistency with the General Plan and compliance with the City of Cotati Zoning Code. As conditioned, the Project is consistent with the findings of the 2013 General Plan EIR and the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to land use relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
The 2013 General Plan EIR did not identify any mitigating policies for Land Use, however the EIR notes that the General Plan could result in potential adverse environmental impacts, including to traffic, noise, water quality, biological resources, drainage and water quality, air quality, hazards, geology/soils, and cultural resources. The EIR notes that the Impacts to these resources, including consistency with applicable plans, policies, and regulations, are evaluated in the appropriate sections of the 2013 General Plan EIR.

The Project is conditioned to ensure compliance and consistency with relevant mitigating policies and actions identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR in the relevant sections of this document. Further, this 292 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 87 of 136 CEQA Analysis project is consistent with the following General Plan actions and therefore consistent with the General Plan:

Status: As described above, this project will implement a project identified in the General Plan, as such, it is consistent.

Action CI1c: Work collaboratively with Caltrans, the County of Sonoma, and the City of Rohnert Park to identify funding sources to complete the following improvements, or improvements of comparative effectiveness, on roadways owned by these agencies and within the City of Cotati: (see General Plan Section Circulation Element for full list)
• Reconstruct Gravenstein Highway between Madrone Avenue and Redwood Drive to include sidewalks, bicycle lanes, two vehicle travel lanes in each direction, and left turn pockets.

Status: As described above, this project will implement a project identified in the General Plan, as such, it is consistent.

Conclusion
The Project was identified in the General Plan in the Circulation Element and as such the Project is consistent with the General Plan and complies with the City’s zoning code and would not physically divide a community. As conditioned, the Project would not substantially increase the severity of the less than significant impacts nor would it result in new significant impacts that were not identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The Environmental Conditions of Approval applied to the Project implement the requirements of the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions. 293 of 1574
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5.12. MINERAL RESOURCES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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?
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?
Sources: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The California Department of Conservation Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (§ 2710), also known as SMARA, provides a comprehensive surface mining and reclamation policy that permits the continued mining of minerals, as well as the protection and subsequent beneficial use of the mined and reclaimed land. The General Plan EIR did not identify any known significant mineral resources of value to the region and residents of the state within the city.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.12(a-b) (Mineral Resources) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The City does not contain known significant mineral resources of value. As such, the Project will not impact mineral resources and the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
There are no applicable General Plan EIR mitigation measures to this Project.

Conclusion
The Project was identified in the General Plan in the Circulation Element and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to mineral resources relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. No Conditions of Approval are required beyond compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations.
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5.13. NOISE
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Generation of a substantial temporary
or permanent increase in ambient noise
levels in the vicinity of the Project in
excess of standards established in the
local general plan or noise ordinance, or
applicable standards of other agencies?
b) Generation of excessive groundborne
vibration or groundborne noise levels?
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 area to excessive noise
levels?
Source: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; and City of Cotati Municipal Code; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The City of Cotati General Plan EIR identifies the City’s existing noise and vibration sources and levels, standards of measurement and thresholds, and potential impacts resulting from implementation of the General Plan. The General Plan EIR concludes that, with implementation of General Plan policies, impacts to ambient noise levels in the City due to traffic noise sources as well as cumulative stationary noise sources and increased traffic noise would be significant and unavoidable.

The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to Noise in Chapter 3.10 and determined the following:
• Impact 3.10-1: General Plan implementation would result in exposure to increased ambient noise levels due to traffic noise sources. While implementation of the Policies N 1.1 – N 1.3, N1.6 – N 1.14 and Actions N 1a – N 1g of the General Plan will reduce noise and land use compatibility impacts from vehicular traffic noise sources and would ensure that new development is designed to include noise-attenuating features, some traffic noise impacts cannot be mitigated to a less-than-significant 295 of 1574
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1.3, N 1.8, N 1.11, and Actions N 1a – N 1c, and 1g, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.10-3: General Plan implementation has the potential to increase ambient noise levels due to stationary noise sources. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies N 1.1, N 1.2, N 1.3, N 1.4, N 1.5, N 1.7, N 1.8, N 1.9, N

1.11, N 1.13, and Actions N 1a – N 1c, and 1g, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.10-4: General Plan implementation has the potential to increase ambient noise levels due to construction noise sources. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies N 1.5, N 1.12, and Actions N 1c, N 1d, N 1e, and N 1h, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.10-5: General Plan implementation has the potential to cause increased perceptible groundborne vibration levels during construction. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies N 1.5, N 1.12, N 1.15, and Actions N 1c and N 1h, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.10-6: Development facilitated by the General Plan could expose persons to excessive groundborne vibration levels attributed to SMART train service. The proposed General Plan includes Action N 1b, which requires that individual development projects adjacent to SMART undergo project--‐specific environmental review and address potential vibration impacts associated with SMART operations. If project-level significant vibration impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. Through implementation of this mitigating action potential impacts from groundborne vibrations associated with SMART operations would be less than significant.
• Impact 3.10-7: Under cumulative conditions, the General Plan would accommodate development that would result in increased traffic noise and an increase in stationary noise sources. The General Plan includes mitigating Policies N 1.1- N 1.14, and Actions N 1a – N1h that are intended to reduce noise associated with both stationary sources and traffic. While these policies will reduce noise impacts, some traffic noise impacts cannot be mitigated to a less-than-significant level due the proximity of sensitive 296 of 1574
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Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.13(a) (Increase in Ambient Noise) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project site is located on a segment of SR-116. The 2013 General Plan EIR notes that the primary source of environmental noise within the City of Cotati is generated by vehicular traffic on US 101and the major roadways in the community, including SR-116 and included an analysis of existing noise levels which determined that at 100 feet from the centerline of SR-116 between Madrone Avenue and US 101, noise levels were 68 dBA.

Construction Noise
During construction of the Project there will be a temporary increase in ambient noise from construction vehicles and equipment. However, COA NOI-1 requires all project contractors to implement best management practices to minimize construction noise and comply with Section

17.30.050 of the Cotati Municipal Code. As conditioned, the Project will not substantially increase ethe severity of the significance of impacts nor would it result in new impacts relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

Operational Noise
The existing noise environment at the site consists primarily of noise from vehicular traffic on SR116 and W. Cotati Ave, with distant noise from Highway 101 contributing to background sound levels. Other sources of noise include commercial, agricultural, and residential noise in the vicinity. The Project will not result in an increase in traffic, nor will it increase the speed of vehicles.

Accordingly, noise from traffic along SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave will be similar to existing conditions with Project implementation. As such, the Project will not substantially increase the severity of the significance of impacts nor would it result in new significant impacts to noise relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.13(b) (Groundborne Vibration) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project would not result in long-term and excessive groundborne vibration and groundborne noise. The City of Cotati General Plan EIR determined that construction activities from buildout of the General Plan could result in periods of significant ambient noise levels and groundborne vibration.

Action N 1h contains suggested “best practices” for control of construction noise. In compliance with this action item identified in the General Plan EIR, COA NOI-1 is required. Furthermore, COA NOI-1 also requires compliance with the noise Standards outlined in Chapter 17.30.050 of the Municipal Code which establishes allowable hours of operation for construction activities. As conditioned, 297 of 1574
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5.13(c) (Airfield Noise) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project is not located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan, nor is it within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. Therefore, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to airfield noise relative to the General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy N 1.2: Require development and infrastructure projects to be consistent with the Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments standards indicated in General Plan Table N-1 (EIR Table 3.10-9) to ensure acceptable noise levels at existing and future uses.

Status: The Project will not result in an increase in vehicle traffic on SR-116 nor W. Cotati Avenue. As no additional vehicles would be added to the roadway as a result of the Project, no additional road noise from traffic would be created. As such, the Project complies with this policy.

Policy N 1.7: The following criteria shall be used to determine the significance, for projects required by the California Environmental Quality Act to analyze noise impacts, of noise impacts for development, transportation, and other projects that increase noise: (see page 8-2 to 8-3 for criteria) Status: The Project will not increase operational noise levels at the Project site because it will not increase vehicle traffic and it will not increase traffic speeds. Therefore, an acoustical study is not required, and the Project complies with this policy.

Policy N 1.11: Require acoustical studies and mitigation measures, where necessary, for new developments and transportation improvements that affect noise sensitive uses such as schools, hospitals, libraries, group care facilities, convalescent homes, and residential areas.

Status: The Thomas Page Academy is located approximately 830 feet away from the Project site.

However, there is existing vegetation between the school and the areas of construction that will provide adequate buffers for any noise that would result from the construction or operation of the Project. As such, the Project does not require an acoustical study and is in compliance with this policy. 298 of 1574
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Action N 1h: During the environmental review process, determine if proposed construction will constitute a significant impact on nearby residents and require mitigation measures in addition to the standard “best practice” controls. (see COA NOI-1 for best practice controls) Status: In compliance with Policy N 1.12 and Action N 1h, COA NOI-1 is imposed and requires the Project comply with best practice controls for noise.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions of Approval:

The Project was identified in the General Plan in the Circulation Element and as conditioned complies with the 2013 General Plan and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to noise relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

NOI-1: Construction-related noise and vibration impacts shall be attenuated through implementation of the following best management practices (BMPs) for control of construction noise:
• Construction period shall be less than twelve months
• Noise-generating construction activities, including truck traffic coming to and from the construction site for any purpose, shall be limited to between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm on weekdays and 9:00 am and 5:00 pm on Saturdays. No construction shall occur on Sundays or holidays.
• All equipment driven by internal combustion engines shall be equipped with mufflers, which are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment. • The construction contractor shall utilize “quiet” models of air compressors and other stationary noise sources where technology exists.
• At all times during project grading and construction, stationary noise--‐generating equipment shall be located as far as practicable from sensitive receptors and placed so that emitted noise is directed away from residences.
• Unnecessary idling of internal combustion engines shall be prohibited. • Construction staging areas shall be established at locations that will create the greatest distance between the construction-related noise sources and noise-sensitive receptors nearest the Project site during all project construction. • Neighbors located adjacent to the construction site shall be notified of the construction schedule in writing at least two weeks prior to construction. • The construction contractor shall designate a “noise disturbance coordinator” who will be responsible for responding to any local complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator would determine the cause of the noise complaint (e.g., starting too early, bad muffler, etc.) and institute reasonable measures as warranted to correct the problem. A telephone number for the disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site.
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5.14. POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of
existing people or housing, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
Sources: Cotati General Plan and 2013 General Plan EIR adopted and certified on March 24, 2015; City of Cotati Housing Element, June 2, 2023; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to Population and Housing in Chapter 3.9 and determined the following:
• Impact 3.9-5: General Plan implementation has the potential to induce substantial population growth. Through implementation of General Plan policies and actions intended to guide growth to appropriate areas and limit land uses allowed under the proposed General Plan, population and housing growth associated with the proposed General Plan would result a less than significant impact.
• Impact 3.9-6: General Plan implementation does not have the potential to displace substantial numbers of people or existing housing. The General Plan could result in development that would remove residences, but the development allowed under the General Plan would result in an increase in the total number of residences and provide housing opportunities for persons that may be displaced as a result of development. This provision of replacement "housing opportunities" is essentially a self-mitigating aspect and implementation of the General Plan and would have a less than significant.

The most recently adopted Housing Element (6th Cycle) was certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and demonstrates the City’s ability to accommodate its fair share of statewide housing needs, which are allocated by the Association of Bay Area Governments. The Housing Element update accommodates 824 units, which is within 300 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 95 of 136 CEQA Analysis the range of the 1,541 units identified as the buildout capacity estimated under the General Plan and analyzed in the General Plan EIR. As is the potential increase of 1,978 residents6that would result from implementation of the Housing Element update, which would not exceed the population growth anticipated under the General Plan of 3,775 new residents.

Prior to adoption the updated Housing Element, the City prepared and certified an addendum to the 2013 General Plan EIR (SCH# 2013082037). The General Plan EIR and Addendum concluded that with implementation of General Plan policies and actions intended to guide growth to appropriate areas and provide services necessary to accommodate growth, the land uses allowed under the proposed General Plan, the infrastructure anticipated to accommodate proposed land uses, and the goal and policy framework would not induce growth that would exceed adopted thresholds.

Additionally, the General Plan EIR and Addendum determined that while the General Plan may result in development that would remove residences, development allowed under the General Plan would result in an increase in the total number of residences and provide housing opportunities for persons that may be displaced as a result of development. This provision of replacement "housing opportunities" was found to be self-mitigating as a result of implementation of the General Plan and impacts from population and housing were found to be less than significant.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.14(a-b) (Induced Substantial Growth, Displacement) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The subject Project is an infrastructure improvement project that is identified in the General Plan in Actions CI 1b and CI 1c. The purpose of the Project is to improve safety for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. No additional travel lanes will be added and no increase in capacity is proposed. Rather, improvements including re-alignment of W. Cotati Ave, new turn lanes, striping, and signalization will allow for safer and more efficient traffic patterns. Therefore, the proposed roadway improvements would not induce growth at levels beyond what has been anticipated by the City of Cotati General Plan EIR. As there are no plans to demolish housing or rezone land that would be used for housing, the Project would have no impacts related to the displacement of housing or people.

The Project is consistent with the findings of the 2013 General Plan EIR and the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to population and housing relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
There are no applicable General Plan EIR mitigation measures related to Population and Housing.

Conclusion
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to population and housing relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more 6 The California Department of Finance estimates Cotati has an average household size of 2.4 residents per unit (California Department of Finance 2022).
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5.15. PUBLIC SERVICES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
Would the Project 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:
a) Fire protection?
b) Police protection?
c) Schools?
d) Parks?
e) Other public facilities?
Sources: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to Public Services in Chapter 3.11 and determined:
• Impact 3.11-1: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to result in adverse physical impacts associated with governmental facilities and the provision of public services. Through the implementation of mitigating policies CSF 1.1 – CSF 1.3, CSF 2.28 – CSF

2.36, CSF 4.7, CSF 4.8, OS 2.1 – OS 2.6, LU 3.12, LU 3.14, LU 3.15, and LU 4.1 and mitigating actions CSF 1a, CSF 1b, CSF 2o - CSF 2s, CSF 4d, CSF 4e, OS 2a - OS 2c, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.11-2: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to result in adverse physical impacts associated with the deterioration of existing parks and recreation facilities or the construction of new parks and recreation facilities. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan policies OS 2.1 – OS 2.6 and mitigating actions OS 2a - OS 2c, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. 303 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 98 of 136 CEQA Analysis The 2013 General Plan EIR determined that development accommodated under the 2013 General Plan would result in additional residents and businesses in the City, including new residential, industrial, office, and commercial uses and accommodate approximately 1,541 new residential dwelling units. The new growth was expected to increase the City’s population by approximately 3,775 residents. This would result in increased demand for public services, including fire protection, law enforcement, schools, parks, libraries, and other public and governmental services. The 2013 General Plan includes policies and actions to ensure that public services are provided at acceptable levels and to ensure that development and growth does not outpace the provision of public services. The 2013 General Plan EIR concluded that the implementation of the mitigating policies CSF 1.1 – CSF 1.3, CSF 2.28 – CSF 2.36, CSF 4.7, CSF 4.8, OS 2.1 – OS 2.6, LU 3.12, LU 3.14, LU 3.15, and LU 4.1 and mitigating actions CSF 1a, CSF 1b, CSF 2o - CSF 2s, CSF 4d, CSF 4e, OS 2a, OS 2b, and OS 2c would result in a less than significant impact.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.15(a-e) (Fire, Police, Schools, Parks, Other) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project is limited to roadway improvements for safety and pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

Implementation of the Project is intended to reduce vehicle accidents and improve safety for bikes and pedestrians. The infrastructure improvements would not require additional public services or increase the demand for police, fire, parks, schools, or other public services. As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to public services relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CSF 2.30: Design and maintain City streets in such a way so as to maintain acceptable emergency vehicle response times.

Status: The proposed Project will improve safety of City streets (SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave) and will not result in a reduction in emergency vehicle access, nor create obstacles that could affect emergency vehicle response times. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion
The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to public services relative to what was identified in the 2013 General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. No Conditions of Approval are required beyond compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations.
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5.16. RECREATION
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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?
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?
Sources: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; California Code, Government Code Section 66477; City of Cotati Municipal Code; and Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to recreation in Chapter 3.11 and determined the following:
• Impact 3.11-2: Implementation of the General Plan has the potential to result in adverse physical impacts associated with the deterioration of existing parks and recreation facilities or the construction of new parks and recreation facilities. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies OS 2.1 – OS 2.6 and Actions OS 2a - OS 2c, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.16(a-b) (Deterioration of Recreational Facilities, Additional Recreation Facilities) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project will realign the intersection of West Cotati Avenue, add a traffic signal, and install improvements to SR-116 to enhance safety and traffic flow, and improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The Project is limited to roadway improvements and will not induce growth. As such, the Project will not increase demand for parks or create a need for additional recreation facilities.

Furthermore, there are no parks in the Project area. All public parks are located east of US 101 and therefore will not be impacted by construction. The existing passive park adjacent to the Cotati Commons residential development will be retained and unaffected by the proposed Project. As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact to recreation relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 305 of 1574
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No applicable mitigating policies or actions.

Conclusion
The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to recreation relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR.

Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. No Conditions of Approval are required beyond compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations.
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5.17. TRANSPORTATION
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Conflict with a program plan,
ordinance, or policy addressing the
circulation system, including transit,
roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian
facilities?
b) Would the Project conflict or be
inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines
section 15064.3 subdivision (b)?
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a
geometric design feature (e.g., sharp
curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency
access?
Sources: Cotati General Plan 2025; General Plan EIR; Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impact in CEQA, prepared by the California Office of Planning and Research, December 2018; Cotati Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, prepared by Sonoma County Transportation Authority for the City of Cotati, adopted December 2008, updated April 22, 2014; and Guidelines for Analysis of Vehicle Miles Traveled, adopted by City of Cotati September 22, 2020. Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; and State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on June 4, 2024.

Cotati General Plan EIR Summary
The City of Cotati General Plan EIR identifies the City’s circulation network, including the roadway network, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, transit service, park and ride lots, rail service, and truck routes. The General Plan EIR concludes that, with implementation of General Plan policies, impacts to traffic operations in the City due to funding uncertainty, traffic operations on Gravenstein Highway, and traffic operations on US 101 freeway facilities would be significant and unavoidable. The following impacts to transportation and circulation were considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.12-1: Implementation of the proposed General Plan would result in acceptable traffic operation at the study intersections and roadway segments controlled by the City of Cotati, though the ability to fully fund all identified improvements is uncertain. Implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.1, CI 1.2, CI 1.3, CI 1.5, CI 1.7, CI 1.20, CI 3.2, CI 3.3, CI 3.4, and Actions CI 1a, CI 1b, CI 1e- CI 1g, CI 1o- CI 1r, and CI 3b are not sufficient to reduce the impacts and implementation of the General Plan would result in a significant and unavoidable impact.
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 102 of 136 CEQA Analysis • Impact 3.12-2: General Plan buildout as well as regional growth would require improvements on Gravenstein Highway, a Caltrans facility. Because the City does not control the funding or timing of these improvements, the City cannot determine that the improvements will be made in time to accommodate regional and local growth. Implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.1, CI 1.2, CI 1.3, CI 1.5, CI 1.7, CI 1.20, CI 3.2, CI 3.3, CI 3.4, CI 4.1, CI 4.3, - CI 4.7 and Actions CI 1a, CI 1b, CI 1e- CI 1g, CI 1o- CI 1r, CI 3b, and CU 4a would not sufficiently mitigate the lack of a regional fee program, or another identified source of funding. As such, implementation of the General Plan would result in a significant and unavoidable impact and no further mitigation is available.
• Impact 3.12-3: General Plan implementation would contribute to unacceptable operation on US 101 freeway facilities. The Metropolitan Transportation Commission, County of Sonoma, City of Cotati, and SCTA recognize that US 101 will experience congestion into the foreseeable future, and that there will be no further major capacity enhancements such as expansions or new freeways. Implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CI 3.2 – CI 3.4, CI 4.1, CI

4.4, CI 4.6, CI 4.7, LU 2.5, LU 2.10, LU 3.8, and Actions CI 3b and CI 4a would not reduce the impacts to less than significant levels and implementation of the General Plan would result in significant and unavoidable impacts.
• Impact 3.12-4: The proposed General Plan would not conflict with an applicable congestion management program. As of the writing of the 2013 General Plan EIR, there was no congestion management program for Sonoma County or the City of Cotati. As such, implementation of the General Plan would have no impact.
• Impact 3.12-5: The proposed General Plan would not result in a change in air traffic patterns.

The City has no existing or planned airport facilities and is not located near any airports, approach, or departure zones. As such, the General Plan would have no impact. • Impact 3.12-6: Implementation of the proposed General Plan would not substantially increase hazards due to a design feature. Development and infrastructure projects in Cotati would be required to comply with the General Plan, Land Use Code, and applicable state and local regulations. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.8, CI 1.9, CI 1.18, and CI 1.24 and Actions CI 1j, CI 1l, CI 1m, CI 1r, and CI 2f, implementation of the General Plan would result in a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.12-7: Emergency Access. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.10, CI 1.14, CI 1.16 and Actions CI 1r, implementation of the General Plan would not impede emergency access and would result in a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.12-8: The proposed General Plan would accommodate increased demand for public transit and supports a shift in trips from automobile to transit modes. Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.6, CI 2.14 - CI 2.22, and CI 3.2 and Actions CI 2i – CI 2k, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 103 of 136 CEQA Analysis • Impact 3.12-9: The proposed General Plan is consistent with adopted bicycle and pedestrian plans, and supports enhancements that emphasize bicycle and pedestrian circulation.

Through the implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CI 1.2, CI 1.6, CI 1.9, CI

1.11, CI 1.12, CI 1.17, CI 1.19, CI 1.20, CI 1.21, CI 2.1-CI 2.13, CI 2.23, and CI 2.24, and Actions CI 1a, CI 1m, CI 1n, CI 1p – CI 1r, CI 2a – CI 2d, CI 2f – CI 2h, and CI 2l - CI 2o, implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • The City of Cotati adopted the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations on March 24, 2015, including for the significant and unavoidable impacts identified for Transportation and Circulation (Impacts 3.12-1, 3.12-2, and 3.12-3). The City findings determined that despite the significant and unavoidable impact to transportation and circulation, no other project alternative would meet the City’s objective to realize the development potential of undeveloped lands for residential, office, and commercial uses necessary for housing opportunity and job growth.

Level of Service to Vehicle Miles Traveled (SB 743)
Level of service (LOS) has historically been used as a standard measure of traffic service. Pursuant to SB 743, as of July 1, 2020, lead agencies are required to evaluate transportation impacts of a project using a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) metric, which focuses on balancing the needs of congestion management with statewide goals related to infill development, promotion of public health through increased active transportation facilitated by closer proximity to alternative travel modes and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

In December 2018, the California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) published the Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA, which provides recommendations for evaluating a project’s transportation impact using a VMT metric, thresholds of significance, and mitigation measures. Pursuant to Government Code Section 15064.3(b), lead agencies have discretion to select the most appropriate methodology for evaluating a project’s VMT impacts.

On September 22, 2020 the City of Cotati adopted local VMT guidelines for analyses of vehicle miles traveled. The guidelines identify criteria, situations, and thresholds to determine VMT impacts and their significance.

Public Transit
Bus service in Cotati is provided by Sonoma County Transit, Golden Gate Transit, and Paratransit.

Sonoma County Transit is the primary transit provider in Cotati; it provides regularly scheduled fixedroute service to major activity centers and transit hubs within the City limits. Golden Gate Transit Routes 74, 80, and 101 serve Cotati with stops located at either the Hub or the St. Josephs Park and Ride. Paratransit, also known as dial-a-ride or door-to-door service, is available for those that are unable to independently use the transit system due to a physical or mental disability.

There is an existing unimproved bus stop at the northwest corner of Alder Ave. and SR-116.

Rail Service
Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) offers passenger rail service in Sonoma and Marin counties.

SMART’s initial 43 miles of rail corridor includes 10 stations, from the Sonoma County Airport to Downtown San Rafael, and includes a station in Cotati. The rail corridor travels through the eastern 309 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 104 of 136 CEQA Analysis portion of the City of Cotati with a transit stop located at the corner of East Cotati Ave and Santero Way, approximately 2 miles east of the subject Project site. The SMART facilities at buildout will provide 70 miles of passenger rail service and a bicycle-pedestrian pathway.

Rail freight operation on the SMART rail corridor is overseen by the North Coast Railroad Authority.

Freight service currently operates between Lombard (located in Napa County where the North Coast Railroad Authority interfaces with the national rail system) and Petaluma. Several round-trip freight trains per week are expected to pass through Cotati over the next several years as freight service expands.

Bike and Pedestrian Facilities
Existing and planned bicycle and pedestrian facilities in Cotati are shown in the Cotati Active Transportation Plan, adopted on May 14, 2024. The Plan identifies several bicycle and pedestrian improvements proposed to be made throughout the City, including improved north/south connectivity across Hwy 116 (and beyond) via a new signalized W. Cotti Avenue intersection, circulation improvements to facilitate alternative transportation circulation into the downtown via Old Redwood Highway, and improving connectivity to Thomas Page Elementary School. Bicycle circulation in Cotati is supported by an existing network of multi-use paths, on-street bike lanes, and bicycle routes. Notable facilities include a segment of the Laguna de Santa Rosa bike path between Commerce Boulevard (in Rohnert Park) and the southern City limits (with one small gap just south of East Cotati Avenue), and on-street bicycle lanes within the City limits on West Sierra Avenue and East Cotati Avenue. The ATP goals include establishing and maintaining continuous clearly identifiable bicycle routes and facilities throughout the City and the plan also calls for walkways and sidewalks along arterial and collector streets to support pedestrian circulation.

Sonoma County Comprehensive Transportation Plan
Moving Forward 2050, Sonoma County’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), is a 25-year plan that serves as the vision for transportation throughout Sonoma County, with goals for the transportation system and the well-being of the communities. Moving Forward 2050 establishes five goals: Deliver a seamless network that allows people to use a variety of transportation types easily, affordably and dependably; Provide safe and well-maintained transportation infrastructure; Implement place-based transportation projects, tailored to urban, suburban, and rural communities that will improve local mobility; Provide zero-emission transportation opportunities that meet diverse community needs, improve health and enhance quality of life.

Projects identified in Moving Forward 2050 relative to Cotati include: updating the US 101 and Railroad Avenue Interchange; widening and rehabilitation of SR 116 between US 101 and Stony Point Road and the addition of signalized intersections, new bike lanes, and new sidewalk to improve the vehicle LOS, improve the safety of 116 for all modes of transportation, and create safe new corridors for pedestrian and bicyclists; Bicycle and pedestrian upgrades (citywide); constructing sidewalks along west Cotati Avenue to close gaps; US 101/SR 116 north bound on-ramp improvements; Multimodal streetscape improvements joining all four legs of La Paza Street around La Plaza Park; widening Old Redwood Highway for safer bike lanes, sidewalks, and center island medians; US 101/West Sierra Avenue south bound off-ramp improvements; and local street pavement rehabilitation from La Plaza to Gravenstein Highway.
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 105 of 136 CEQA Analysis Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR
The Project will improve pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety through the realignment and signalization of the intersection of W. Cotati Ave and SR-116 as identified in the 2013 General Plan and consistent with the implementing projects of the Sonoma County Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

5.17(a) (Conflicts with Plans, Policies, Ordinances) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
The Project implements Action CI-1b and CI-1c identified in the Circulation Element of the City’s General Plan. The 2021 City of Cotati Local Road Safety Plan (LSRP) identified the intersection of SR116 and West Cotati Avenue intersection as a high collision rate intersection with the 7th highest collision rate in the city. The LRSP included recommendations to realign the intersection and install a traffic signal to address these collisions, and the project includes the installation of these safety features. Additionally, the City recently adopted an ATP as a component of Sonoma County’s countywide ATP. The ATP effort includes data and community input that has informed the specific improvements that the City has proposed for this segment of SR 116. Further, the Project realizes goals set forth in the Sonoma County Comprehensive Transportation Plan. Therefore, the project is consistent with City and County policies and objectives.

All project elements are designed to appropriate Caltrans Highway Design Manual (HDM) and would not conflict with Caltrans standards or requirements. Additionally, Caltrans requires the completion of an Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE). ICE is a decision-making process and framework used to provide a more balanced or holistic approach to the consideration and selection of access strategies and concepts during transportation planning, project identification and initiation processes that contemplate the addition, expansion or “full control” of intersections. Through the implementation of the ICE, the project would comply with Caltrans policies.

Additionally, the proposed traffic signal phasing at the new signalized intersection of SR-116 and W.

Cotati Ave is designed to prioritize operational efficiency, safety, and comfort for all modes of transportation. Further, COA TRA-1 has been established to ensure that in compliance with Action CI 2h which requires that bicycle loop detectors at traffic signals are clearly identified with stencils, if inground loops are used for detection. Based on the estimated future development of adjacent sites (Cotati Village Community and Redwood Row), Fehr and Peers calculated the projected level of service at the new intersection as shown in Table 5.17.1. The Projected LOS includes traffic generated by pipeline projects including the approved Cotati Village Community, and the proposed Redwood Row (under review) and Cotati Village Community Two (under review) development projects.

Table 4 Intersection Level of Service
Intersection
Peak
Hour Control
Future No Project Future Plus Project
Delay(s) LOS Delay(s) LOS
SR-116 & W. Cotati
Ave.

AM Signal 16.0 B 25.3 C
SR-116 & W. Cotati
Ave.

PM Signal 21.4 C 32.5 C
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 106 of 136 CEQA Analysis The installation of the signal would reduce the intersection LOS from B to C. However, the signal would improve the safety of the intersection for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The General Plan Circulation Element Policy CI 1.3 calls for a minimum level of service (LOS) standard of LOS D at intersections. As designed, the Project would be above the minimum standard and as such, it is consistent with the General Plan.

As further discussed in this section, the Project does not conflict with a program plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.

As such, it will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.17(b) (Conflict with 15064.3(b) VMT) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The project involves improvements to the existing Right-of-Way on SR116 and reconfiguring the existing intersection of SR116 and West Cotati Avenue. The project would add a raised median, left turn pockets, a traffic signal, and Class I and Class II bicycle facilities. The project would maintain the roadway’s existing capacity and general lane configuration of one lane in the eastbound and one lane in the westbound direction. As discussed in Section 5.8(a) Green House Gas Emissions, Caltrans’ Transportation Analysis under CEQA (TAC) and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA provide guidance on the types of transportation projects that would not lead to a substantial or measurable increase in vehicle travel and considered non-capacity-increasing projects. Projects that are considered non-capacityincreasing would not conflict with CEQA Guidelines 15064.3(b). As noted in Section 5.8(a), all Project elements are considered non-capacity-increasing. Therefore, the project will not increase Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and will not conflict with CEQA Guidelines 15064.3(b). As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.17(c) (Geometric Design Feature Hazard) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project will realign the intersection of W. Cotati Avenue and SR-116 to improve the safety of the intersection. The new alignment will result in a 90-degree signalized intersection that will have adequate site distances and safety improvements. The Project will also add turn pockets to the roadway and install bicycle facilities.

Currently, the intersection of SR 116 and West Cotati Avenue has a high rate of collisions, as identified in the 2024 Cotati ATP, and the existing intersection is only stop controlled on the West Cotati Avenue approach. The reconfigured and relocated intersection and the improvements to SR 116 aredesigned to Caltrans Highway Design Manual (HDM) standards, and the installation of the traffic signal, left turn pockets, and bicycle facilities would improve safety for all road users at this intersection.

The traffic signal phasing plan includes protected left turns for all approaches and protected right turns for westbound right approaches, which reduces the risk of collisions. The reconfigured intersection would also facilitate traffic from future developments to the north of the intersection which are either approved or under review by the City of Cotati. The installation of the traffic signal, the left turn pockets, and the bicycle facilities will not result in incompatible vehicles using this intersection. Therefore, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.

5.17(d) (Emergency Access) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR 312 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 107 of 136 CEQA Analysis During construction, the project will maintain through access to business, residents and for emergency vehicles. The project, at operation, will maintain through lanes on SR 116 and West Cotati Avenue and will add left turn pockets and dedicated right turn lanes on SR 116. Emergency vehicles will continue to be able to use the through lanes, and the addition of left turn pockets on SR 116 will reduce potential delays from automobiles waiting to make left turns. The addition of the traffic signal at SR 116 and West Cotati Avenue will not substantially increase traffic delays. The Project will include the installation of signal pre-emption. This means that for any emergency vehicles properly equipped, the signal-preemption flips the signal to green for unimpeded and safer access for emergency vehicles through the intersection. Therefore, the Project would not result in inadequate emergency access and the impact would be less than significant. As such, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy CI 1.1 Ensure that the City’s circulation network is maintained and improved over time to support buildout of the General Plan in a manner that is consistent with the City’s Circulation Diagram Figure 2.1.

Status: The Project will realign and signalize an existing street intersection that will improve traffic safety. The improvements will support existing traffic volumes and transportation demands generated by continued buildout of the General Plan. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CI 1.2 Ensure that the City’s circulation network is a well-connected system of streets, roads, highways, sidewalks, and bicycle/pedestrian paths that effectively accommodates vehicular and nonvehicular traffic in a manner that considers the context of surrounding land uses and the needs of all roadway users.

Policy CI 2.11 Establish and maintain bicycle facilities that are consistent with the network depicted in the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.

Policy CI 2.12 Public road construction projects shall incorporate facilities identified in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan to the greatest extent feasible.

Status: The Project will improve access and circulation along SR 116 and West Cotati Ave. by providing a well-connected roadway system to accommodate planned buildout of the General Plan. The Project includes new pedestrian and bicycle facilities along SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave. The Project is designed to prioritize efficiency, safety, and comfort for all modes of transportation. As such, the project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CI 1.3: Establish a minimum motor vehicle Level of Service (LOS) standard of LOS D at intersections. The following shall be taken into consideration in applying LOS standards: (see General Plan Page 2-5 for full list of considerations)
Status: The Project includes signalization of the new alignment at the intersection of W. Cotati Ave and SR-116. The new signal is expected to operate at a Level of Service C with build out of the approved and Projects adjacent to SR-116. The signalization improves the safety of the intersection for 313 of 1574
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Policy CI 1.6: When analyzing impacts to the circulation network created by new development or roadway improvements, consider the needs of all users including those with disabilities, ensuring that pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders are considered at an equal level to the needs of automobile drivers.

Policy CI 2.1 Establish and maintain a system of pedestrian facilities and crossing enhancements that are consistent with the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.

Policy CI 2.6 Create an accessible circulation network that is consistent with guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing mobility-impaired users such as the disabled and elderly to safely and effectively travel within and beyond the City.

Action CI 2c: Review all transportation improvements to ensure installation in accordance with current accessibility standards.

Status: The Project prioritizes efficiency, safety, and comfort for all modes of transportation. This includes accessible and ADA compliant sidewalks, crosswalks, and curb ramps. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Policy CI 1.8: Maintain safe travel conditions for all modes of travel.

Policy CI 1.9: Consider all transportation improvements as opportunities to improve safety, access, and mobility for all roadway users.

Policy CI 1.18: Intersections shall be designed to provide adequate and safe access for all users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists of all ages and abilities.

Status: The purpose of the Project is to improve safety for all modes of transportation on SR-116 between Alder Avenue and Redwood Drive. The Project improvements are designed in compliance with the applicable standards of the Caltrans Highway Design Manual and in compliance with City policies and regulations. The improvements include dedicated bicycle lanes. Enhanced crosswalks with “green pavement” and bicycle signalization. As such the project is consistent with these policies.

Action CI 1b: Ensure that future development provides roadway improvements consistent with the Circulation Diagram and implement the roadway improvements identified in the Traffic Impact Fee Study to improve the safety and efficiency of the current circulation system, and to support buildout of the General Plan.
• Construct a minor realignment of West Cotati Avenue to intersect Gravenstein Highway at an improved angle, and install a traffic signal at the intersection. • (see General Plan Pages 2-6 to 2-8 for list of improvements) Action CI 1c: Work collaboratively with Caltrans, the County of Sonoma, and the City of Rohnert Park to identify funding sources and complete the following improvements or improvements of comparable effectiveness, on roadways owned by these agencies within and near the City of Cotati. 314 of 1574
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Action CI 2b: Review traffic signal timing plans to ensure adequate crossing times for all users at signalized intersections.

Status: The Project will include installation of a new traffic signal and synchronized signal timing to facilitate safe and efficient multimodal access and operations. As such, the Project complies with this Action item.

Action CI 2h: Public Works shall ensure that bicycle loop detectors at traffic signals are clearly identified with stencils, if in-ground loops are used for detection.

Status: Pavement markings and traffic signal operations will be finalized during the final design and engineering phase of the Project. To ensure consistency with this policy COA TRA-1 has been added to provide for proper identification of bicycle loop detectors, if installed. As conditioned, the Project complies with this Action item.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions of Approval:

The Project is identified in the General Plan and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to transportation relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

COA TRA-1: If in-ground bicycle loop detectors are proposed in the final design and engineering plans for the proposed signalization at intersection at SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave., when installed, the bicycle loop detectors shall be clearly identified with stencils. 315 of 1574
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5.18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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
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.

Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Archaeologic al Study for the Gravenstein Highway (SR 116)/West Cotati Avenue Realignment Project by Sally Evans, Evans and DeShazo, September 28, 2023; and AB 52 Notification Memo issued by the City of Cotati to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, July 20, 2023.

According to Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21074, tribal cultural resources are defined as follows:
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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:
i. Included or determined to be eligible for inclusion in the California Register of Historical Resources; or
ii. Included in a local register of historical resources as defined in PRC Section 5020.1(k).

2. A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in PRC Section 5024.1(c). In applying the criteria set forth in PRC Section 5024.1(c), the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.

3. A cultural landscape that meets the criteria of PRC Section 21074(a) to the extent that the landscape is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape.

4. A historical resource described in PRC Section 21084.1, a unique archaeological resource as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(g), or a “non-unique archaeological resource” as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(h), if it conforms with the criteria of PRC Section 21074(a).

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
As stated in Section 3.4 Cultural Resources, the 2013 General Plan EIR determined that General Plan implementation could result in a substantial adverse change in the significance of an historical or archaeological resource, including tribal cultural resources. Through the implementation of mitigating General Plan Policies CON 4.1, CON 4.3 – CON 4.6, and mitigating actions CON 4a – CON 4c, and CON 4f, implementation of the 2013 General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

Additionally, implementation of the 2013 General Plan could result in the disturbance of human remains. Through the implementation of General Plan Policies CON 4.2 and Action CON 4c and compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, the implementation of the General Plan would have a less than significant impact.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.18 (a.i, ii) (Listed or Eligible for Listing, Significant Tribal Resources) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
A Cultural Resources Evaluation was prepared by Evans and De Shazo (EDS), Inc. on September 28, 2023. In addition to the records search with the NWIC and the BERD, a Sacred Lands File (SLF) inventory request was sent to the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) by electronic mail (email) on July 3, 2023, to inquire about listed Sacred Sites located within or near the Project Area and to obtain a list of local Native American tribes who may have additional information about Sacred Sites, Traditional Cultural Resources, or other properties of traditional religious and cultural importance located within or near to the Project site. EDS also conducted outreach with each tribal organization and individual on the Native American contact list provided by the NAHC to request further consultation regarding traditional, cultural, and religious heritage values associated with the Project.

The NAHC responded on August 6, 2023, with information that the record search of the Sacred Lands File was negative for the presence of any Sacred Sites for the Project Area. Twelve Native American tribal contacts were also provided. On August 7-8, 2023 letters were sent via United 317 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 112 of 136 CEQA Analysis States Postal Service or electronic mail to the 12 individuals on the contact list to request further information about Sacred Sites, Traditional Cultural Resource, or other properties of traditional religious and cultural importance located within or near the Project. Two responses were received. A representative of Lytton Rancheria responded that the Project site falls within the traditional Pomo territory and that there is a potential for finding tribal cultural resources. The Tribe requested additional information regarding the field survey which was provided on August 11, 2023.

On August 21, 2023, a representative of FIGR responded that the Project is located within FIGR’s ancestral territory and there may be cultural resource impacts. The NWIC record search was provided to the tribe on August 22, 2023.

In accordance with PRC Section 21080.3.1(d), the City of Cotati provided written formal notification to the tribes below on July 20, 2023 which included a brief description of the Project and its location, the City of Cotati contact information, and a notification that the Tribes have 30 days to request consultation. Notified tribal organizations include the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR) and Lytton Rancheria. No response has been received.

Based on result of the Cultural Resources Study, the Project site is in an area that would have been ideal for hunting and extracting natural resources but was unlikely conducive to occupation by people during the precontact period due to the distance from the nearest waterway. Additionally, the soils within the Project Area do not appear to contain a buried A horizon (paleosols; horizon Ab) and the age of the underlying geology further suggests a limited potential for buried precontact period archaeological resources. As such, the Project area has a low potential for buried precontact period archaeological resources.

While no resources have been identified onsite through field investigation, unknown buried cultural artifacts or features may be encountered during earth disturbing activities. Through implementation of COA CUL-1 which addresses the discovery of significant archaeological and historic resources, including tribal resources, during construction, potential impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources will be reduced to less than significant levels. As conditioned, the Project will not result in a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Action CON 4c: Require all development, infrastructure, and other ground-disturbing projects to comply with the following conditions in the event of an inadvertent discovery of cultural resources or human remains: (see above Section 5.5 for full text of Action CON4c).

Status: COA CUL-1 requires implementation of the actions described in Action CON 4c to address potential discovery of archeological resources including Tribal Cultural Resources during construction.

As conditioned, the Project complies with this policy and this action.

Conclusion and Environmental Conditions of Approval:

The Project is identified in the General Plan and will not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR.

Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe 318 of 1574
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Environmental Condition of Approval CUL-1 is applied to the Project to implement requirements of the 2013 General Plan EIR mitigating policies and actions. 319 of 1574
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5.19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
Would The Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available
to serve the Project and reasonably
foreseeable future development during
normal, dry, and multiple dry years?
c) Result in a determination by the
wastewater 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?
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?
e) Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Sonoma County Water Agency 2020 Urban Water Management Plan, prepared by Brown and Caldwell, June 2021; City of Cotati Municipal Code; and Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024..

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR evaluated potential impacts to Utilities and Service Systems. Specifically, the impacts of implementation of the 2013 General Plan on water, wastewater, and solid waste systems and determined the following:
• Impact 3.13-1: General Plan implementation has the potential to result in an increased 320 of 1574
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Even with mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 1.1-CSF 1.6 and CSF 2.16 - CSF2.27 and Actions CSF 1a, CSF 1b, CSF 2h-2n, implementation of the General Plan would result in a cumulatively considerable significant and unavoidable impacts. • Impact 3.13-4: General Plan implementation has the potential to require or result in the construction of new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. Through the implementation of mitigating Policies CSF 2.20, CSF 2.22, and CSF 2.24 implementation of the 2013 General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • Impact 3.13-5: General Plan implementation would be served by a landfill for solid waste disposal needs and will require compliance with various laws and regulations. Through implementation of the mitigating General Plan Policies CSF 3.1-CSF 3.8 and Actions CSF 3aCSF 3e, implementation of the 2013 General Plan would have a less than significant impact. • The City of Cotati adopted the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations on March 24, 2015, including for the significant and unavoidable impacts identified for utilities and service systems (Impact 3.13-3). The City findings determined that despite the significant and unavoidable impact to utilities and service systems, no other project alternative would meet the City’s objective to realize the development potential of undeveloped lands for residential, office, and commercial uses necessary for housing opportunity and job growth.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.19(a-c) (Relocation or Expansion of Utilities, Water Supply, Wastewater Capacity) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
In order to construct the roadway improvements there will be adjustments to some existing utility infrastructure including a fire hydrant and a light pole. However, there will be no substantial change in the location of utilities. While there may be some short-term increase to water, wastewater, and utility usage during construction will not result in new uses nor an increase in intensity that might 321 of 1574
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5.19(d-e) (Solid Waste Generation and Compliance with Solid Waste Management) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR
During construction, the Project would generate solid waste from concrete and asphalt from the removal of existing improvements and vegetation waste from tree removal. In compliance with state goals to reduce waste from construction, COA UTI-1 is imposed and requires that all project contractors recycle or salvage at least 65 percent of nonhazardous construction and demolition waste and prepare a Construction Waste Management Plan that documents the diversion of materials. At operation, waste generation will be limited to the ongoing maintenance of infrastructure improvements, which will generate a negligible change relative to existing conditions. Therefore, the Project will not result in new or more severe impacts relative to the 2013 General Plan EIR. 2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Action CSF 2a: As part of the development review process, determine the potential impacts of development and infrastructure projects on the water system and ensure that new development contributes its fair share toward necessary water infrastructure and supply. The Planning Department and the City Engineer shall be responsible for ensuring that the assessments are made.

Status: The Project will not have impacts on the water system as it will not result in new connections or additional usage. As such the Project is consistent with this action.

Conclusion
The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to utilities and service systems relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The following environmental condition of approval is required to implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies:

COA UTI-1: All project contractors shall prepare a Construction Waste Management Plan to recycle or salvage at least 65 percent of nonhazardous construction and demolition waste and which documents the diversion of materials.
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5.20. WILDFIRE
If located in or near state
responsibility areas or lands classified
as very high fire hazard severity
zones, would the Project:

New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
a) Substantially impair an adopted
emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
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?
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?
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?
Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Fire Hazard Maps, Office of the State Fire Marshal, April 1, 2024; Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2021, prepared by Tetra Tech Consultants for Permit Sonoma, October 2021; and Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
The General Plan EIR addressed impacts related to wildfire hazards in Chapter 3.7 – Hazards. The following impact related to wildfires was considered under the 2013 General Plan EIR:
• Impact 3.7-6: The General Plan does not have the potential to expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands. Through the 323 of 1574
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Mitigating policies and actions provided in the General Plan are included in the General Plan EIR to ensure public facilities are able to respond to wildfire emergencies, effective coordination between fire districts, and maintenance of emergency response facilities and infrastructure. Individual projects are directed to be reviewed by the City and the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District for code compliance. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) has designated property within the City of Cotati as being outside of the State Responsibility Area and the areas outside the City limits are designated as moderate fire hazard.

In October 2017, the Tubbs Fire (Central LNU Complex) burned approximately 36,807 acres in Sonoma County. Residents were exposed to direct effects of the wildfire, such as the loss of structures, and to the secondary effects of the wildfire, such as smoke and air pollution. Smoke generated by wildfire consists of visible and invisible emissions that contain particulate matter (soot, tar, water vapor, and minerals) and gases (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides). Public health impacts associated with wildfire include difficulty in breathing, odor, and reduced visibility.

Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan On September 28, 2021, the Cotati City Council adopted the Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan to guide pre- and post-disaster mitigation of identified hazards. The plan includes actions to mitigate current risk from hazards and changes in hazard impacts resulting from climate change, including wildfires. The plan includes Best Management Practices to mitigate the Wildfire Hazard. Thes practices include what are called “personal scale” alternatives such as:
• Clear overgrown underbrush and diseased trees;
• Create and maintain defensible space around structures; • Regular mowing/landscape maintenance;
• Use of fire-resistant building materials;
• Employ techniques from the Firewise USA Program; and
• Installing or replacing roofing with non-combustible materials.

Sonoma County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
In June 2023, the County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) was incorporated by reference into the Sonoma County Annex of the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP). Part of this plan includes the Sonoma County Wildfire Risk Index (WRI). Published on November 17, 2022, the WRI predicts relative wildfire risk. The Wildfire Risk Analysis divides the county's landmass into 100-acre hexagon which are assigned a risk level. While each hexagon is assigned an overall risk level, conditions may vary significantly within the shape. It is entirely possible that areas of relatively low risk could exist within a polygon whose overall risk is high. The purpose of the CWPP and WRI is to inform planning to improve wildfire resiliency.

Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.20(a-d) (Impair Emergency Plans, Exacerbate Wildfire Risks, Infrastructure Contribution to Risks, Exposure to Wildfire-Related Risks)) – No Change Relative to the General Plan EIR 324 of 1574
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2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Policy SA 1.3: Keep emergency access routes free of traffic impediments.

Status: The Project will reduce potential traffic impediments because it will widen the pavement on SR-116 and add an 8-foot-wide right shoulder, signalize and realign the intersection of W. Cotati and provide pedestrian and bicycle improvements which will improve traffic safety. As such, the Project complies with this policy.

Policy SA 1.5: Ensure that all areas of the City are accessible to emergency response providers.

Action SA 1d: Periodically review, maintain and repair City roadways and emergency access routes and provide signage, where necessary, to clearly identify emergency access routes.

Status: The Project spans two evacuation zones, CO-1
7 and CO-28 on the Sonoma County
Evacuation Map. During an emergency SR-116 would serve as a connection to Highway 101 for the purposes of evacuation. The Project will improve safety on an evacuation route. As such, the Project is consistent with this policy.

Conclusion
The Project is identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts to Wildfire relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR.

Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. No Conditions of Approval are required beyond compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations.
7 Sonoma County. Evacuation Zone: CO1 Map. Published April 7, 2022. 8 Sonoma County. Evacuation Zone: CO2 Map. Published April 7, 2022. 325 of 1574
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5.21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
New
Significant
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
More
Severe
Impact
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No
Substantial
Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
No Change
Relative to
General
Plan EIR
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?
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)?
c) Does the Project have environmental
effects, which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either
directly or indirectly?
Source: Cotati General Plan 2035; General Plan EIR; Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024; State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on June 4, 2024; Biological Resources Analysis for Highway 116/West Cotati Alignment Plan City of Cotati, CA prepared by Monk and Associates on October 26, 2023; Special-Status Plant Survey Report Year 2 prepared by Monk & Associates on June 5, 2024; Results of an Archaeological Study for the Gravenstein Highway (State Route 116)/West Cotati Ave Realignment Project Cotati, Sonoma County, California prepared by Evans and De Shazo Archaeology and Historic Preservation on September 28, 2023; and Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for West Cotati Avenue Alignment Project, Cotati, CA prepared by Harris and Lee Environmental Sciences, LLC on July 12, 2023.

City of Cotati 2013 General Plan EIR Findings
Under the requirements of CEQA, an EIR is required to discuss cumulative impacts to which the Project would contribute. A cumulative impact is defined as an impact resulting from the combined effects of 326 of 1574
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The 2013 General Plan EIR determined that the implementation of the General Plan would result in the following Cumulative impacts:
• Impact 3.10--‐7: Cumulative Noise Impacts (Significant and Unavoidable) • Impact 3.13--‐3: Potential to exceed wastewater treatment capacity or the requirements of the RWQCB (Cumulatively Considerable and Significant and Unavoidable) • Impact 4.1: Cumulative Degradation of the Existing Visual Character of the Region (Considerable Contribution and Significant and Unavoidable) • Impact 4.11: Cumulative Exposure of Noise--‐Sensitive Land Uses to Noise in Excess of Normally Acceptable Noise Levels or to Substantial Increases in Noise (Considerable Contribution and Significant and Unavoidable)
• Impact 4.13: Cumulative Impact on the Transportation Network (Considerable Contribution and Significant and Unavoidable)
• Impact 4.14: Cumulative Impact on Utilities (Considerable Contribution and Significant and Unavoidable)
• Impact 4.15: Irreversible Effects (Significant and Unavoidable) Project Consistency with the 2013 General Plan EIR

5.21(a, c) (Threaten to eliminate a biological resource or cultural resource, substantial adverse effects) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR The Project is consistent with the General Plan in that is implements identified Action items CI 1b and CI 1c to improve transportation and circulation. The Project Conditions of Approval ensure that the Project complies with the policies and actions of the 2013 General Plan. Additionally, and as noted throughout this document, the Project shall comply with the federal, state, and local regulations including uniformly applied standards of the City of Cotati Municipal Code.

The Project is identified in the General Plan and would not result in any substantial new or more severe impacts relative to what was identified in the General Plan EIR. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects than were identified and evaluated in the 2013 General Plan EIR. The environmental conditions of approval that implement the General Plan EIR mitigating policies are listed in section 7.

5.21(b) (Cumulative Impacts) – No Substantial Change Relative to the General Plan EIR Cumulative impacts are considered throughout this analysis relative to the buildout of the General Plan and approved and proposed developments adjacent to the subject Project site. As described in the Project description, one new housing development, Cotati Village Community, has been approved on Parcel 144-050-009 for the construction of 5,000 square feet of commercial space and 177 new housing units. Additionally, the City is currently reviewing an application for a proposed housing development on Parcel 144-040-011 for a 2,250 square foot commercial space and 126 residential 327 of 1574
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All of the approved/proposed developments within the Project vicinity are on parcels designated General Commercial in the City’s General Plan and the scope and scale of the development was anticipated and accounted for in the General Plan and the 2013 General Plan EIR. Given the potential for simultaneous construction activities on the adjacent properties, COA MF-1 has been imposed to ensure that the coordination of the projects and minimize the effects of the Project to the maximum extent practicable.
2013 General Plan EIR Mitigating Policies and Actions
Applicable General Plan Policies, Action items, and General Plan EIR mitigation measures are identified in each Section above.

Conclusion
The Project was identified in the General Plan Circulation Element and would not result in any substantial new or more severe cumulative impacts. Furthermore, there are no circumstances peculiar to the Project site and there have been no substantial changes in environmental circumstances that would result in new or more severe significant environmental effects relative to those identified and evaluated in the General Plan EIR. In addition to compliance with uniformly applied development standards and applicable local and state regulations, the following condition of approval is intended to offset potential impacts from simultaneous construction activities.

COA MF-1: The City shall coordinate the Project’s construction activities and construction schedule with the concurrent construction projects immediately adjacent to the Project site and ensure that overlapping lane closures, periods of increased noise and dust generation are minimized to the greatest extent practicable.
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6. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
The following reference documents are hereby incorporated by reference and are available for review at the Community Development Department, 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California 94931, during normal business hours and online at https://www.cotaticity.org/.

6.1. TECHNICAL APPENDICES
A. State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project Memorandum prepared by Fehr and Peers on June 4, 2024.

B. Biological Resources Analysis for Highway 116/West Cotati Alignment Plan City of Cotati, CA prepared by Monk and Associates on October 26, 2023, and Special-Status Plant Survey Report, Year 2 prepared by Monk and Associated on June 5, 2024.

C. Results of an Archaeological Study for the Gravenstein Highway (State Route 116)/West Cotati Ave Realignment Project Cotati, Sonoma County, California prepared by Evans and De Shazo Archaeology and Historic Preservation on September 28, 2023. (CONFIDENTIAL) D. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for West Cotati Avenue Alignment Project, Cotati, CA prepared by Harris and Lee Environmental Sciences, LLC on July 12, 2023.

E. Detailed Air Quality Analysis Results on SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave. Realignment prepared by M-Group on April 26, 2024 using CalEEMod.

6.2. OTHER DOCUMENTS REFERENCED

1. Project Plans (35%) for the Construction on State Highway in Sonoma County in City of Cotati on Route 116 From 0.1 Mile West of Alder Ave to Redwood Drive prepared by Mark Thomas on April 19, 2024

2. BAAQMD 2017 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, prepared by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, April 2017.

3. BAAQMD CEQA Guidelines, April 2022.

4. BAAQMD Recommended Methods for Screening and Modeling Local Risks and Hazards, prepared by the BAAQMD, May 2011.

5. California Code, Government Code Section 66477.

6. California Code, Health and Safety Code Section 25501(n)(1).

7. California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, 2016.

8. California Scenic Highway Mapping System, Scenic Highway System Lists, 2019. https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape-architecture-and-communitylivability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways, accessed August 2022.

9. City of Cotati Municipal Code.

10. Climate Action 2020 and Beyond: Sonoma County Regional Climate Action Plan, prepared by Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority, July 2016. 329 of 1574
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11. Cotati Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, prepared by Sonoma County Transportation Authority for the City of Cotati, adopted December 2008, updated April 22, 2014.

12. Environmental Review Pursuant to California Public Resource Code CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 for Cotati Village Community Project prepared by M-Group and adopted by the City Council on February 27, 2024.

13. EnviroStor, managed by the Department of Toxic Substances Control, accessed September 2022.

14. Final Santa Rosa Plain Conservation Strategy, prepared by USFWS, 2005.

15. Fire Hazard Maps, Office of the State Fire Marshal, April 1, 2024.

16. GeoTracker, managed by the State Water Resources Control Board, accessed September 2022.

17. Guidelines for Analysis of Vehicle Miles Traveled, adopted by City of Cotati September 22, 2020.

18. Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for a Zoning Amendment and Residential Care Facility for the Elderly and a Commercial Building prepared by M-Group and adopted by City of Cotati City Council on November 12, 2019.

19. Moving Forward 2050: Sonoma County Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) prepared by Sonoma County Transportation Authority and updated on September 7, 2021.

20. MTC/ABAG Hazard Viewer Map, accessed July 27, 2022.

21. Recovery Plan for the Santa Rosa Plain, 2016.

22. Sonoma Clean Power 2021 Annual Report.

23. Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2021, prepared by Tetra Tech Consultants for Permit Sonoma, October 2021.

24. Sonoma County Permit Sonoma GIS, Williamson Act Contracts, 2017.

25. Sonoma County Water Agency 2020 Urban Water Management Plan, prepared by Brown and Caldwell, June 2021.

26. Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impact in CEQA, prepared by the California Office of Planning and Research, December 2018.

27. USGS Land Cover Classification System.
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7. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
The following conditions of approval have been identified through this analysis and ensure implementation of applicable mitigation measures and policies set forth in the General Plan EIR.

AQ-1: The City of Cotati shall require all contractors to implement the following dust control and exhaust measures during any construction period ground disturbance:

1. All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day.

2. All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered.

3. All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited.

4. All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 miles per hour (mph).

5. All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. Building pads shall be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used.

AQ-2: All contractors shall implement a Construction Minimization Plan including feasible measures to reduce diesel particulate matter emissions from new construction through enhanced measures as follows:

2. Provide line power to the site during the early phases of construction to minimize the use of diesel-powered stationary equipment.

3. Alternatively, use zero-emission or non-diesel fueled equipment BIO-1: In accordance with agency regulations and per the 2020 Programmatic Biological Opinion for the Santa Rosa Plain, vernal pool conservation credits shall be purchased for impacts to suitable Sebastopol meadowfoam habitat at 1.5:1 ratio. Credits shall be purchased prior to the commencement of site preparation, grading, or demolition. 331 of 1574
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West Cotati Ave. Re-Alignment Page 126 of 136 CEQA Analysis BIO-2: Prior to site preparation, demolition, or grading, California Tiger Salamander mitigation credits shall be purchased from a USFWS approved Conservation Bank at a ratio of 2 square feet of mitigation for every square foot of upland habitat (2:1).

BIO-3: Nesting bird survey shall be conducted within 15 days prior to commencing any phase of construction work if the work would begin between February 1 and August 31. The nesting bird survey shall be conducted on the Project site and within a zone of influence around the Project site.

BIO-4: Prior to demolition, grading, or building, credits from a US Army Corps of Engineers- and Regional Water Quality Control Board-approved wetland mitigation bank shall be purchased at a ratio of no less than 1:1 to compensate for the loss of waters of the U.S. and State.

BIO-5: If the final design and engineering plans include tree removal, prior to issuance of any project permits, an arborist’s report shall be prepared. If trees are removed, they shall be replaced in compliance with Chapter 17.54 Tree Protection ordinance. Regardless, all contractors shall implement the tree protection measures in compliance with Land Use Code Section 17.54.040 of the Tree Protection Ordinance.

Although the likelihood of encountering human skeletal remains in the project area seems slight, it is important to have a procedure for alternate tasks that can be put into effect quickly in the event that human remains are discovered. This allows for work to continue elsewhere on the project area (where appropriate given the size of the property and location of the discovery) while the remains are properly investigated.
c. If construction or grading activities result in the discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or unique paleontological resources, all work within 332 of 1574
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d. If human remains are discovered during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the Community Development Department and the County Coroner have been contacted; if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and the most likely descendants have been consulted; and work may only resume when appropriate measures have been taken and approved by the Community Development Department.

GEO-1: Prior to final design and engineering (100% plan set) a geotechnical analysis and report shall be completed by a geotechnical engineer. The report shall include subsurface soil conditions and recommendations for design if poor subsurface conditions exist. The recommendations shall be incorporated into the final design and engineering and implemented in the construction of the Project.

HAZ-1: Prior to construction, the City shall prepare a Lead Compliance Plan and a Soil Management Plan in compliance with current Caltrans guidelines, and a worker Health and Safety Plan.

The plans shall address:
• Sampling and analysis of soils prior to earth-moving work • transportation and disposal of any contaminated soil in compliance with state and federal law
• worker health and safety during the handling of potentially hazardous soils HAZ-2: Project contractors shall notify any schools within 0.25 miles of the Project at a minimum of 14 days before commencing earthwork. The notice shall include:
• the dates and timeframe for earthmoving activities
• the location of the proposed activities
• the potential for any contamination that may be released due to earthwork the name and phone number of a contact for concerns during project activities.

HYD-1: As part of the final design and engineering, an SWPPP shall be prepared which specifies BMPs that will prevent all construction pollutants from contacting stormwater with the intent of keeping all products of erosion from moving off site into receiving waters. At a minimum, the SWPPP shall identify BMPs for implementation during project construction that are in accordance with the applicable guidance and procedures contained in the California Stormwater Quality Association’s California Stormwater Best Management Practices Handbook (2015).

HYD-2: As part of the final design and engineering, an engineer shall prepare and submit SWLID Plan that integrates the most current SWLID Design Manual guidelines.

HYD-3: In preparing final design and engineering plans, the City shall use natural features such as bioswales, vegetation, retention ponds, and other measures to remove pollutants from stormwater and to provide flood control to the maximum extent feasible. 333 of 1574
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• Construction period shall be less than twelve months
• Noise-generating construction activities, including truck traffic coming to and from the construction site for any purpose, shall be limited to between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm on weekdays and 9:00 am and 5:00 pm on Saturdays. No construction shall occur on Sundays or holidays.
• All equipment driven by internal combustion engines shall be equipped with mufflers, which are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment. • The construction contractor shall utilize “quiet” models of air compressors and other stationary noise sources where technology exists.
• At all times during project grading and construction, stationary noise--‐generating equipment shall be located as far as practicable from sensitive receptors and placed so that emitted noise is directed away from residences.
• Unnecessary idling of internal combustion engines shall be prohibited. • Construction staging areas shall be established at locations that will create the greatest distance between the construction-related noise sources and noise-sensitive receptors nearest the Project site during all project construction. • Neighbors located adjacent to the construction site shall be notified of the construction schedule in writing at least two weeks prior to construction. • The construction contractor shall designate a “noise disturbance coordinator” who will be responsible for responding to any local complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator would determine the cause of the noise complaint (e.g., starting too early, bad muffler, etc.) and institute reasonable measures as warranted to correct the problem. A telephone number for the disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site.

TRA-1: If in-ground bicycle loop detectors are proposed in the final design and engineering plans for the proposed signalization at intersection at SR-116 and W. Cotati Ave., when installed, the bicycle loop detectors shall be clearly identified with stencils.

UTI-1: All project contractors shall complete the following prior to commencing work:

1. Prepare a Construction Waste Management Plan to recycle or salvage at least 65 percent of nonhazardous construction and demolition waste and which documents the diversion of materials.

2. Coordinate with refuse pickup providers to determine the adequate size and number of containers required to accommodate all waste streams (landfill, recycling, and composting).

MF-1: The City shall coordinate the Project’s construction activities and construction schedule with the concurrent construction projects immediately adjacent to the Project site and ensure that overlapping lane closures, periods of increased noise and dust generation are minimized to the greatest extent practicable.
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Memorandum
Date:

To:

June 4, 2024
Craig Scott, Public Works Director, City of Cotati
From: Geoff Rubendall, PE TE RSP1
Subject: State Route 116 Safety Improvements Project
SF22-1268
The City of Cotati is proposing improvements along State Route 116 (SR116) from Alder Avenue to Redwood Drive to address safety issues documented in around and the SR116/West Cotati Avenue intersection and implement bikeway and pedestrian improvements along the corridor.

This memorandum has been prepared to document the need for these proposed improvements and document the design decisions based on applicable design standards and our traffic engineering analysis conducted as part of the design development process. This memorandum is organized into the following sections:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Background
Project Description
Design Considerations
Traffic Forecasts & Operations
CEQA Analysis
Proposed Design Plans
140 Keller Street | Petaluma, CA 94592 | (707) 582-0039 | www.fehrandpeers.com 335 of 1574
Craig Scott, City of Cotati
June 4, 2024

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Cotati City CouncilSeptember 10, 2024

Cotati City Council
September 10, 2024