Agenda packet — Fontana City Council, July 25, 2023 (part 6 of 14)

In conclusion, future construction and operations would result in the irretrievable commitment of limited, slowly renewable, and nonrenewable resources, which would limit the availability of these resource quantities for future generations or for other uses during the life of the individual developments. It is noted that the continued use of such resources would be on a relatively small scale in a regional context.

Irretrievable Commitments/Irreversible Physical Changes: Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would result in a commitment of land uses designated for the foreseeable future.

Land use and development consistent with the Downtown Core Project would result in irretrievable commitments by designating land for development that is more intense, in some instances, than current designations allow. Development would physically change the environment in terms of aesthetics, air emission, noise, and traffic. These physical changes are 950
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irreversible after development occurs. Therefore, the Downtown Core Project would result in changes in land use within the Project Area that would commit future generations to these uses.

The Downtown Core Project would support the General Plan goals and policies to guide growth and development to the Downtown. Construction and operation of future development projects associated with Project implementation would result in the irretrievable commitment of limited, slowly renewable, and nonrenewable resources that would limit the availability of these resource quantities for future generations or for other uses during the life of the Project. However, the Project Area is an urbanized area and already uses such resources. Additionally, the continued use of such resources would be on a relatively small scale and consistent with regional and local growth forecasts in the area. As such, although irreversible environmental changes would result from the Project, such changes would not be considered significant. (Draft EIR, Section 6.1, page

6.1 to 6.3.)

2.7 Growth-Inducing Impacts of the Proposed Project
Section 15126.2(e) of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR evaluate the growth-inducing impacts of a proposed project. A growth-inducing impact is defined by the CEQA Guidelines as:
“The way in which a proposed project could foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. Included in this are projects which would remove obstacles to population growth (a major expansion of a waste water treatment plant might, for example, allow for more construction in service areas). Increases in the population may tax existing community service facilities, requiring construction of new facilities that could cause significant environmental effects. Also discuss the characteristic of some projects which may encourage and facilitate other activities that could significantly affect the environment, either individually or cumulatively. It must not be assumed that growth in any area is necessarily beneficial, detrimental, or of little significance to the environment.” The State CEQA Guidelines do not provide specific criteria for evaluating growth inducement.

Growth-inducing impacts fall into two general categories: direct or indirect. Direct growthinducing impacts are generally associated with new residences or businesses that could induce population growth directly. Indirect growth-inducing impacts provide urban services, such as the extension or roads or other infrastructure, to an undeveloped area that could induce population growth indirectly.

In general, a project may foster spatial, economic, or population growth in a geographic area if it results in any of the following:
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 Removal of an impediment to growth (e.g., establishment of an essential public service and provision of new access to an area);
 Fostering of economic expansion or growth (e.g., changes in revenue base and employment expansion);
 Fostering of population growth (e.g., construction of additional housing), either directly or indirectly;
 Establishment of a precedent-setting action (e.g., an innovation, a change in zoning and general plan amendment approval); or
 Development of or encroachment on an isolated or adjacent area of open space (being distinct from an infill project).

Should a project meet any one of the above-listed criteria, it may be considered growth inducing.

Generally, growth-inducing projects are either located in isolated, undeveloped, or underdeveloped areas, necessitating the extension of major infrastructure such as sewer and water facilities or roadways, or encourage premature or unplanned growth. Note that the CEQA Guidelines require an EIR to “discuss the ways” a project could be growth inducing and to “discuss the characteristics of some projects that may encourage…activities that could significantly affect the environment.” However, the CEQA Guidelines do not require that an EIR predict (or speculate) specifically where such growth would occur, in what form it would occur, or when it would occur. The answers to such questions require speculation, which CEQA discourages (refer to CEQA Guidelines Section 15145).

In accordance with the CEQA Guidelines and based on the above-listed criteria, the project’s potential growth-inducing impacts are evaluated below.

Removal of an Impediment to Growth: The Project Area and surrounding area are fully developed and urbanized. Transportation and infrastructure exists to serve the range of residential and nonresidential uses within the surrounding area. The Project does not introduce new roadways or new or significantly expanded infrastructure that would provide for additional development within the surrounding area. Potential infrastructure improvements associated with future sitespecific development would not remove obstacles to growth since the Project Area and surrounding area are already served by existing utility providers and potential improvements would be to serve the specific development being proposed. As the Project would not establish an essential public service or provide new access to an area, the proposed Project would not be considered growth-inducing.

Economic Expansion or Growth: In addition to residential uses, the Project anticipates the development of commercial uses within the Project Area. The construction of future development projects would result in construction-related jobs. However, construction activities and durations would vary depending upon the specific development and would be temporary in 952
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respect to each individual development site and therefore, would not be considered growthinducing.

Project operations would introduce new residents and jobs to the Project Area. Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would consist of infill development at greater residential densities and non-residential intensities with the intent to introduce a variety of housing options and supportive commercial uses that bring people to the Downtown Area. Potential residents and employees would be closer to existing transit, as well as civic and commercial uses. Residents and employees would seek shopping, entertainment, employment, and other economic opportunities in the City and surrounding area. This could create an increased demand for goods and services that would encourage the creation of new businesses or the expansion of existing businesses. Although economic growth is anticipated within the Project Area, significant economic growth resulting in the potential to significantly affect the environment is not anticipated as the surrounding area is urbanized.

Population Growth: A project could induce population growth in an area either directly or indirectly. More specifically, the development of new residences or businesses could induce population growth directly, whereas the extension of roads or other infrastructure could induce population growth indirectly. The Project Area is located within the Downtown area of the City, which is an urbanized area served by existing roads, transit, and infrastructure. The Project does not involve the extension of roads or infrastructure into undeveloped areas; refer to the “Removal of an Impediment to Growth” discussion above.

Project implementation could yield a net change over existing conditions of an additional 8,900 dwelling units and 2,685,404 square feet of non-residential uses. This new growth may increase the City’s population by approximately 33,731 residents (based on the 2022 California Department of Finance estimated household size of 3.79 persons per household).

Implementation of the proposed Project would also provide additional employment opportunities for approximately 6,852 employees (Kittelson and Associates, 2022).

The proposed Project would provide for increased population growth within the Project Area when compared to the current General Plan. However, the proposed Project is intended to implement the goals and policies of the General Plan and accommodate the City’s fair share of statewide housing needs, which are allocated by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), based on regional numbers provided by the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on a regular basis (every five to eight years). The City of Fontana 2021-2029 Housing Element was adopted February 8, 2022 and accommodates the City’s share of the regional housing need for the 2021-2029 RHNA period of 17,519 units. The City’s 2021-2029 Housing Element identifies the existing Project Area, as accommodating a portion of City’s Low-, Very-Low-, and Above-Moderate-income RHNA allocation. The Project is 953
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anticipated to yield an additional 8,900 dwelling units, 33,731 residents, and 6,852 employees over existing conditions. The population and employment growth anticipated as a result of Project implementation is within the overall City’s growth projections of the Fontana Forward General Plan and SCAG’s RHNA allocation.

Although the Project involves unplanned population growth anticipated by the General Plan for the Project Area, the environmental impacts of the potential unplanned population growth are evaluated, planned for, and mitigated as part of the Project throughout this EIR. The Project would not result in land use changes, nor implement any new policies that could induce substantial unplanned population or employment growth within other areas of the City or region.

The Project is in an urban area with existing infrastructure that can support future infill development and the potential physical environmental impacts of such improvements are analyzed in Section 5.16 of the Draft EIR. No additional infrastructure improvements (e.g., roadways and utilities) would be implemented that could indirectly induce population growth elsewhere in the City.

Establishment of a Precedent-Setting Action: The proposed Project would accommodate future growth in the Downtown Core Project Area by creating and implementing a new General Plan land use category and six new FBC districts specific to the Project Area. The Project would involve amending the General Plan, amending the General Plan Land Use Map, and amending the Zoning and Development Code, including the Zoning District Map. The proposed approvals would only regulate future land development within the Project Area through the implementation of the requirements of the FBC districts and would not induce growth within the surrounding area.

Further, implementation of the Project would not establish a procedure that would make future General Plan or zoning amendments more likely. Discretionary projects within the City would also be subject to environmental review on a project-by-project basis and Project implementation would not involve a precedent-setting action that could significantly impact the environment.

Development or Encroachment of Open Space: As stated, the Project Area is located within an urbanized area of the City. Park and open space resources include Miller Park, within the Civic Area, Santa Fe Park, adjacent to the Metrolink Station, and a portion of the Pacific Electric Trail PET, an east-west multi-use regional trail, located south of Seville Avenue. The Project does not propose modifications to these existing resources and would not result in encroachment into these areas. The Project would not be growth-inducing with respect to development or encroachment into an isolated or adjacent area of an existing open space. (Draft EIR, Section 6.2, page 6.3 to 6.6.)
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2.8 Project Alternatives
The EIR analyzed two alternatives to the proposed Project and evaluated these alternatives for their ability to avoid or reduce the Project’s significant environmental effects while also meeting the majority of the Project’s objectives. The City finds that it has considered and rejected as infeasible the alternatives identified in the EIR as described below.

This section sets forth the potential alternatives to the Project analyzed in the EIR and evaluates them in light of the Project objectives, as required by CEQA.

Where significant impacts are identified, section 15126.6 of the State CEQA Guidelines requires EIRs to consider and discuss alternatives to the proposed actions. Subsection (a) states:
(a) An EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the location of the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives. An EIR need not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision-making and public participation. An EIR is not required to consider alternatives which are infeasible. The lead agency is responsible for selecting a range of project alternatives for examination and must publicly disclose its reasoning for selecting those alternatives. There is no ironclad rule governing the nature or scope of the alternatives to be discussed other than the rule of reason.

Subsection 15126.6(b) states the purpose of the alternatives analysis:
(b) Because an EIR must identify ways to mitigate or avoid the significant effects that a project may have on the environment (Public Resources Code Section 21002.1), the discussion of alternatives shall focus on alternatives to the project or its location which are capable of avoiding or substantially lessening any significant effects of the project, even if these alternatives would impede to some degree the attainment of the project objectives, or would be more costly.

In subsection 15126.6(c), the State CEQA Guidelines describe the selection process for a range of reasonable alternatives:
(c) The range of potential alternatives to the proposed project shall include those that could feasibly accomplish most of the basic objectives of the Project and could avoid or substantially lessen one or more of the significant effects. The EIR should briefly describe the rationale for selecting the alternatives to be discussed. The EIR should also identify any alternatives that were considered by the lead agency but were rejected as infeasible during the scoping process and briefly explain the reasons underlying the lead agency’s determination. Additional information explaining the choice of alternatives may be included in the administrative record. Among the factors that may be used to eliminate 955
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alternatives from detailed consideration in an EIR are: (i) failure to meet most of the basic project objectives, (ii) infeasibility, or (iii) inability to avoid significant environmental impacts.

The range of alternatives required is governed by a “rule of reason” that requires the EIR to set forth only those alternatives necessary to permit a reasoned choice. The EIR shall include sufficient information about each alternative to allow meaningful evaluation, analysis, and comparison with the proposed Project. Alternatives are limited to ones that would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the Project. Of those alternatives, the EIR need examine in detail only the ones that the lead agency determines could feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the Project.

2.8.1 Alternatives to the Proposed Project
A. Alternative 1: No Project/Existing General Plan (Draft EIR, Section 7.2, page 7-5 to 7-15.) Under Alternative 1, the City would not implement the Downtown Core Project. The Fontana General Plan and Zoning and Development Code would continue to be implemented. No changes to the General Plan or Zoning and Development Code, including General Plan text and Land Use Map amendments, or amendments to the Zoning and Development Code and Zoning District Map, would occur. This Alternative assumes that ultimate development of the Fontana General Plan would occur and increased residential development opportunities in the Downtown Core Project Area in order to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant and accommodate a portion of the City’s Low-, Very-Low-, and Above-Moderate-income RHNA allocation as identified in the Fontana 2021-2029 Housing Element would not occur.

Alternative 1 would result in the continuation of existing conditions and new growth would be allowed as envisioned under the General Plan and Zoning and Development Code, with land uses required to be consistent with the existing General Plan Land Use Map. Table 7-2 in the Draft EIR compares the assumed development potential associated with the existing General Plan and the proposed Project 2040 buildout. Alternative 1 would result in less development within the Project Area compared to the proposed Project. Under Alternative 1, the existing General Plan policy framework would continue to be in effect, which would constitute a status quo approach to land use regulation in the Project Area.

The goal of the Downtown Core Project is to create a vibrant, walkable, mixed-use area with high quality housing and retail options in the Downtown Core Project Area. The Project would accomplish this goal by creating and implementing a new Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown Core (WMXU-3) General Plan land use category and six new FBC districts specific to the Project Area.

The new land use category and FBC districts would allow for cohesive infill development in the Downtown Core. The Project would amend the Development Code to incorporate the six new FBC districts, including permitted land uses, increased densities and development standards by 956
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zoning district, building types, frontage types, general regulations, design and architectural regulations, private open space types, and public open space standards specific to each new FBC District. Further, the City is developing the Downtown Fontana Development Guide to provide recommended changes to the FBC, objective development standards, expedited review guidelines, and development impact fee incentives. These standards and guidelines would ensure new development and redevelopment projects would be designed to complement the character of the existing community and neighborhoods and provide connectivity between existing development and new development. The Project Area planned circulation would provide a more “walkable” environment, designed to incorporate traffic calming measures to reduce traffic speeds, enhance pedestrian safety, and promote walkability of the area, specifically along Sierra Avenue. To enhance the pedestrian experience and promote walkability, the Project proposes to ultimately close a quarter-mile portion of Sierra Avenue to vehicular traffic.

Alternative 1 would not implement the new WMXU-3 General Plan land use category and six new FBC districts within the Project Area. This Alternative would not develop the Downtown Fontana Development Guide, and standards and guidelines would not be implemented to ensure new development and redevelopment projects would be designed to complement the character of the existing community and neighborhoods and provide connectivity between existing development and new development. This Alternative would continue with the existing circulation described in the General Plan and would not ultimately close a quarter-mile portion of Sierra Avenue to vehicular traffic.

Aesthetics
Impacts related to Aesthetics were found be less than significant. Both the Downtown Core Project and No Project/Existing General Plan Alternative would provide for increased development within the Project Area that would result in densification of the Project Area.

However, Alternative 1 would result in decreased densities and intensities in the Project Area when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Future projects under both development scenarios would be subject to applicable Municipal Code requirements. Although buildout of Alternative 1 would result in 1,785 fewer dwelling units in the Project Area and 493 fewer jobs, overall the Project Area would experience significant development compared to existing conditions which would change the character and image of the area under both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project.

Future development associated with Alternative 1 and the proposed Project would result in new development and intensification of existing urban uses that may interfere with existing scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills. Views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills are primarily provided from along Sierra Avenue and within the northernmost and southernmost portions of the Project Area. Under both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project, buildings would be limited to heights of 35 feet adjacent to Sierra Avenue. Further, under the 957
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proposed Project a 55-foot maximum height would be maintained adjacent to street corners within the Gateway Core and Sierra Core, which primarily comprise the areas along Sierra Avenue and Foothill Boulevard. Since these are the areas wherein views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills are primarily provided, the height limitations would assist in maintaining these long-range views from the Project Area. Alternative 1 would allow for heights of 40 to 70 feet depending upon the building type along Foothill Boulevard. Similar to the proposed Project the height limits imposed on Sierra Avenue would assist in maintaining long-range scenic views within the Project Area.

Development under either Alternative 1 or the proposed Project would be guided by the guiding principles established in General Plan Chapter 14, Downtown Area Plan. The Project would amend the General Plan to introduce the WMXU-3: Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown Core land use category, which supports a density of 2.1-70 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) and 0.2-2.0 Commercial FAR, and to apply the new land use category to a majority of the Project Area. The new WMXU-3 land use designation would encourage residential development within the Project Area by providing opportunities for higher density residential development to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant and to implement the General Plan goals, policies, and actions. Although Alternative 1 would allow for less residential densities and development, it would continue to implement the General Plan goals, policies, and actions related to infill development, providing mixed and supportive land uses, revitalizing the Downtown Area, supporting increased activity, increasing connectivity and providing improved amenities and design that encourages walking, bicycling, transit, and other opportunities that reduce motor vehicle trips.

Alternative 1 would also continue to be guided by Zoning and Development Code Chapter 30, Article III, Form-Based Code, which establishes development standards by the existing zoning districts. The proposed Project would amend Zoning and Development Code Chapter 30 to incorporate the six new FBC districts, including permitted land uses, increased densities and development standards by zoning district, building types, frontage types, general regulations, design and architectural regulations, private open space types, and public open space standards specific to each new FBC District.

Under both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project, the Fontana Development Code provides for project specific design review of future development proposals within the City, including the Project Area, which would ensure that development is consistent with the General Plan goals, policies, and actions and the specific FBC district development standards. Neither Alternative 1 nor the proposed Project would conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality. As such, Alternative 1 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Agriculture and Forestry Resources
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The Downtown Core Project would result in no impacts to agriculture and forestry resources. Like the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 1 would accommodate development generally in the same areas, and these areas are, for the most part, already urbanized. Given that no agriculture and forestry resources would be impacted by the proposed Project, impacts associated with Alternative 1 would be the same and no impacts would occur. As such, Alternative 1 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Air Quality
Construction and operation of future developments would occur within close proximity to sensitive receptors, and there is the potential for localized emissions to exceed regulatory levels.

The following significant impacts related to air quality have been identified:
 The Project could result in an increase in the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new violations or delay the timely attainment of air quality standards or the interim emissions reductions specified in the AQMP.  The Project could result in ROG, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 operational emissions that would be significant and unavoidable.
 Implementation of the proposed Project as a whole would result in a significant and unavoidable impact concerning Local Significance Thresholds (LSTs) during operational activities.
 Project implementation would result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to significant cumulative air quality impacts during operational activities.

When compared to Alternative 1, the Downtown Core Project provides more opportunities for trip internalization and increased opportunities for walking and bicycling due to the proposed mix of higher density residential and commercial development. Future development under both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project would be required to adhere to the same policy guidance and local, State, and regional air quality measures. Although Alternative 1 would allow for slightly less development (1,785 fewer housing units and 493 fewer jobs), resulting in a corresponding reduction in construction emissions, operational emissions, and potential reductions in overall traffic volumes, impacts to air quality would continue to be significant and unavoidable, similar with the proposed Project. Additionally, Alternative 1 would result in a slightly higher VMT per service population when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 1 would be considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Biological Resources
The Project Area is generally urbanized and developed with residential and non-residential uses.

The Downtown Core Project does not include any specific development proposals and would not result in significant direct impacts to existing biological resources. However, subsequent development and redevelopment activities associated with implementation of the proposed Project could occur on undeveloped sites that have been revegetated or result in the removal of 959
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ornamental vegetation, potentially resulting in direct impacts to Burrowing Owl or nesting birds.

Future development associated with implementation of the proposed Project would be required to implement Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 (General Plan EIR MM-BIO-1 and MM-BIO2). Mitigation Measure BIO-1 requires that for sites containing suitable habitat, a qualified biologist conduct a pre-construction survey prior to ground disturbing or vegetation disturbing activities to determine the presence or absence of burrowing owl within the proposed area of impact and appropriate actions if occupied burrows are discovered. Mitigation Measure BIO-2 provides an alternative if avoidance of clearing of vegetation and removal of trees is not feasible between non-nesting (or non-breeding) season for nesting birds to ensure their protection.

Compliance with Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the California Fish and Game Code, would ensure that protected birds are not adversely affected during construction activities accommodated as part of the Downtown Core Project and impacts would be reduced to less than significant.

Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. The existing General Plan Land Use Map does not designate any open space within the Project Area. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 would reduce potential impacts to Burrowing Owl or nesting birds to less than significant. The potential impacts to biological resources under the Downtown Core Project and Alternative 1 would remain the same. As such, Alternative 1 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Cultural Resources
While the Downtown Core Project does not directly propose site-specific development with the potential to directly impact cultural resources, future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of known or unknown historic or archaeological resources. Mitigation Measure CUL1 (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-1, updated) would ensure evaluation of a project site for historical resources and, if necessary, implementation of mitigation measures to reduce impacts to a level that is less than significant. Mitigation Measure CUL-2 (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-2, updated) would ensure that if any prehistoric archaeological resources are encountered before or during grading, the developer shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor construction activities and take appropriate measures to protect or preserve them for study. Compliance with existing federal, State, and local regulations, including the General Plan and implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2, would reduce potential impacts to cultural resources to less than significant.

Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2 would reduce potential impacts to historical resources and 960
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archaeological resources to less than significant. The impact under Alternative 1 would remain the same compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 1 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Energy
Project implementation would use energy resources for the operation of buildings (electricity and natural gas), for on-road vehicle trips (e.g., gasoline and diesel fuel), and from off-road construction activities (e.g. diesel fuel) associated with the Project. Future development projects associated with implementation of the proposed Project would be in compliance with all applicable federal, State, and local regulations regulating energy usage. Energy use impacts associated with the implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be less than significant.

Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. While land uses and development under Alternative 1 would be required to adhere to the same local, State, and regional measures regulating energy usage as the Downtown Core Project, the decrease in residential units and non-residential building square footage, and the corresponding reduction in electricity and gas for the operation of buildings, diesel fuel for off-road construction activities, and potential reductions in gasoline due to a decrease in the overall traffic volumes would result in reductions in energy usage under Alternative 1 when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 1 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Geology and Soils
It is possible that undiscovered paleontological resources could be encountered during future ground-disturbing activities within the Project Area. Future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be required to implement Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2 (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-4, updated and MM-CUL-5, respectively).

Mitigation Measure GEO-1 would require a qualified paleontologist conduct a preconstruction field survey of any project site that is underlain by older alluvium. The paleontologist shall submit a report of findings that provides specific recommendations regarding further mitigation measures (i.e., paleontological monitoring) that may be appropriate. Should mitigation monitoring of paleontological resources be recommended for a specific project, the project would be required to implement Mitigation Measure GEO-2, which would require the program to assign a paleontological monitor to the site full-time during the interval of earth-disturbing activities; cease earth-disturbing activities should fossils be found; curate for documentation and transfer recovered fossils to an appropriate depository; and submit a report to the City and San Bernardino County Museum. With implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2, potential impacts to paleontological resources associated with future development anticipated by the Downtown Core Project would be reduced to less than significant. 961
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Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns as the Downtown Core Project. Since the Project Area is the same under both development scenarios, similar physical constraints related to geology and soils exist. The potential for new development to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with seismic ground shaking and geologic instabilities would be similar under this Alternative and the Downtown Core Plan. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2 would reduce potential impacts to paleontological resources to less than significant. Further, new development would be required to comply with the California Building Code and applicable Municipal Code requirements. As such, Alternative 1 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

When compared to Alternative 1, the Downtown Core Project provides for slightly more development and more opportunities for trip internalization and increased opportunities for walking and bicycling due to the proposed mix of higher density residential and commercial development. Future development under both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project would be required to adhere to the same policy guidance and local, State, and regional air quality measures as the Downtown Core Project. Although Alternative 1 would allow for slightly less development (1,785 fewer housing units and 493 fewer jobs), resulting in a corresponding reduction in construction and operational GHG emissions, the amount and mix of development would result in higher VMT per service population than the proposed Project. Impacts associated with GHG emissions would be significant and unavoidable with implementation of both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project. Thus, Alternative 1 would be considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Hazards and Hazardous Materials
The Downtown Core Project does not include any specific development proposals; however, future development has the potential to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with hazardous materials. Future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be required to implement Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 (General Plan EIR MM-HAZ-1, updated and MM-HAZ-3, respectively). Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 would require that new proposed facilities involved in the production, use, storage, transport or disposal of hazardous materials be located a safe distance from land uses that may be adversely 962
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impacted by such activities, and that new sensitive facilities would not be located near existing sites that use, store, or generate hazardous materials. Mitigation Measure HAZ-2 would require all businesses that handle hazardous materials above the reportable quantity to submit an inventory of the hazardous materials that they manage to the San Bernardino County Fire Department Hazardous Materials Division in coordination with the Fontana Fire Protection District. Implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 and compliance with federal, State, and local regulations would ensure a less than significant impact with regards to hazards and hazardous materials.

Similar to the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 1 would result in additional urban uses including commercial, residential, and mixed-use and public facility development. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 would reduce potential impacts from hazards and hazardous materials to less than significant. The potential for new development to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with hazards and hazardous materials would be similar under this Alternative and the Downtown Core Plan. As such, Alternative 1 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Hydrology and Water Quality
Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would result in less than significant impacts related to Hydrology and Water Quality. While this Alternative would result in less dense and intense development compared to the Downtown Core Project, all new development would be subject to applicable stormwater and water quality requirements per the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). This variation in intensity and land use designation changes would not substantially alter impacts from or to flooding, water quality, or on groundwater supplies because existing federal, State, and local regulations would apply to guard against flood hazards, water quality contamination, or impact on groundwater supplies. Potential hydrology and water quality impact for this Alternative, like the proposed Project, would be less than significant.

Alternative 1 would result in slightly reduced development of housing units and non-residential square feet when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Compared to the Downtown Core Project, the potential water quality impacts related to construction and operation would be similar. Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would not result in construction, or longterm impacts to surface water quality from urban stormwater runoff. Future development under all alternatives would also be required to submit a SWPPP with BMPs to the RWQCB and comply with all storm water sewer system (MS4) requirements. It would be expected that impacts related to water quality would be similar under Alternative 1 as compared to the Downtown Core Project. As such, Alternative 1 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.
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Land Use and Planning
The proposed Downtown Core Project and Alternative 1 are long-range land use plans. All impacts related to land use and planning were found to be less than significant under the Downtown Core Update. As described previously, the Downtown Core Update would amend the Fontana General Plan and Zoning and Development Code, including General Plan text and Land Use Map amendments, and amendments to the Zoning and Development Code and Zoning District Map. Under Alternative 1, the existing Land Use Element and land use designations would continue to guide development of the Downtown Core Project Area. However, this Alternative would not achieve the core objectives of the Downtown Core Project to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant and accommodating a portion of the City’s Low-, Very-Low-, and AboveModerate-income RHNA allocation as identified in the Fontana 2021-2029 Housing Element. In addition, the Downtown Core Project would allow for greater consistency with applicable State and regional plans related to the provision of housing options at varying densities and income levels within an area served by transit, retail, and services to provide opportunities to reduce VMT and associated GHG emissions when compared to Alternative 1. As such, Alternative 1 would be considered environmentally inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Mineral Resources
The Downtown Core Project would result in no impacts relating to mineral resources. Like the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 1 would accommodate development generally in the same areas, and these areas are, for the most part, already urbanized. Given that no mineral resources would be impacted by the proposed Project, impacts associated with Alternative 1 would be the same and would remain less than significant. As such, Alternative 1 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Noise
While the Downtown Core Project does not directly propose site-specific development, future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project could generate additional noise from construction and operational activities associated with future projects.

Mitigation Measure NOI-1 (General Plan EIR MM-NOI-1, updated) requires a noise study be performed prior issuance of a grading permit and mitigation implemented if noise levels exceed 65 dBA. Mitigation Measure NOI-2 (General Plan EIR MM-NOI-2) provides procedures for construction activities to reduce impacts related to equipment moving and operation. With the exception of traffic noise on existing noise-sensitive uses along identified roadway segments, which would result in a significant unavoidable impact, the Project would not result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project Area in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies with the implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1 and NOI-2. Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development 964
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footprint as the Downtown Core Project. Although Alternative 1 would allow for slightly less development (1,785 fewer housing units and 493 fewer jobs), resulting in a corresponding reduction in construction and operational noise, similar to the proposed Project, it would result in substantial permanent increases in existing transportation noise levels at sensitive receptors on a project and cumulative level. As such, Alternative 1 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Alternative 1 would allow for 1,785 fewer residential units which would result in 6,765 fewer residents compared to the Downtown Core Project. As, Alternative 1 would provide for development consistent with the City’s adopted General Plan, it would be consistent with City and regional growth projections. As such, this Alternative would be considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Under Alternative 1, the development area and development types would remain similar, however, there would be fewer jobs, dwelling units, and population when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Thus, impacts to public services(the demand for police, fire and other public services) would be slightly reduced. Overall, Alternative 1 would have a slightly reduced impact to public services when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 1 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Transportation
Transportation impacts associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be less than significant. The proposed Project would not conflict with policies, plans, or programs regarding roadways, bicycle, pedestrian, or transit facilities or the performance or safety of those facilities. The Project would support the implementation of policies and programs to provide new and improved facilities to support multi-modal transportation and access within the Project Area. 965
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Similarly, Alternative 1 would provide for increased density and development within the Project Area and would not conflict with policies, plans, or programs regarding roadways, bicycle, pedestrian, or transit facilities or the performance or safety of those facilities.

The proposed Downtown Core Project would result in a VMT per service population below the County threshold. Alternative 1 would also result in a VMT per service population below the County threshold. However, when compared to the Project, Alternative 1 would result in a higher VMT per service population. Part of this reduction is attributed to the increasingly balanced mix of residential and employment opportunities within the Downtown Core Project. As such, Alternative 1 would be considered environmentally inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Tribal Cultural Resources
While the Downtown Core Project does not directly propose site-specific development with the potential to directly impact tribal cultural resources, future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of known or unknown tribal cultural resources. Future development within the Project Area would be required to implement Mitigation Measure CUL-1 (General Plan EIR MMCUL-1, updated), which requires a qualified archaeologist to perform a number of tasks prior to construction activities, including conducting a field survey for historical resources within portions of the project site not previously surveyed if evidence suggests the potential for resources to exist. In addition, future development would be required to implement Mitigation Measure CUL2 and TCR-1 (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-2 and MM-CUL-3, updated). Mitigation Measure CUL-2 would ensure that if any prehistoric archaeological resources are encountered before or during grading, the developer shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor construction activities and to take appropriate measures to protect or preserve them for study. Additionally, Mitigation Measure CUL-2 has been updated to include implementation of TCR-1 in the event Native American cultural resources are discovered. Mitigation Measure TCR-1 requires that in the event Native American cultural resources are discovered during construction for future development, all work in the immediate vicinity of the find shall cease and a qualified archaeologist meeting Secretary of Interior standards shall be hired to assess the find; that the City/project applicant initiate consultation between the appropriate Native American tribal entity and transfer cultural resources investigations to the appropriate Native American entity as soon as possible; and that a Native American Monitor from the appropriate Native American entity is utilized where deemed appropriate or required by the City, during initial ground disturbing activities, cultural resource surveys and/or cultural resource excavations. Compliance with existing federal, State, and local regulations, including the General Plan and implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and TCR-1 would reduce potential impacts to tribal cultural resources to less than significant.
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Alternative 1 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and TCR-1 would reduce potential impacts to tribal cultural resources to less than significant. The potential impact to tribal cultural resources under Alternative 1 would remain the same compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 1 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

However, both Alternative 1 and the proposed Project would likely require the construction or expansion of new utilities to serve the site-specific development that is being proposed. The quantity of infrastructure installed would not be substantially reduced, as the Project Area is urbanized and contains existing utilities infrastructure. The potential environmental effects associated with infrastructure projects would be similar under Alternative 1 and the proposed Project. Similarly, storm drainage runoff under Alternative 1 would be approximately the same when compared to the proposed Project, due to the general development footprint remaining the same for this alternative when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Since demand for utilities would be slightly less under Alternative 1 due to the lower densities and associated development potential, Alternative 1 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Ability To Meet The Project Objectives: The No Project/Existing General Plan Alternative would not attain the Project’s fundamental objectives, which include providing for new residential development opportunities in order to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant; establish FBC districts that encourage housing and supporting commercial development; create and apply a new land use category for the Project Area to provide consistency and allow for development at 967
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the densities and intensities needed to implement the FBC districts; enhance the pedestrian experience and promote walkability, by ultimately closing a quarter-mile portion of Sierra Avenue to vehicular traffic; providing objective development standards that would facilitate permitting of housing projects; and creating a Downtown Fontana Development Guide to serve as a "howto" guide for the development community so that the City can realize its vision for the Downtown.

B. Alternative 2: Reduced Growth (Draft EIR, Section 7.2, page 7-15 to 7-25.) Under Alternative 2, the City would implement the Downtown Core Project, but at residential densities and nonresidential intensities lower than those reflected in the proposed Downtown Core Project. For comparison, it is assumed that this Alternative would result in a 59 percent decrease in the number of multifamily units and a 56 percent decrease in the number of employees by 2040 when compared to the proposed Project. This would result in a 56 percent decrease in the Project Area’s population by 2040 when compared to the proposed Project. This Alternative was developed to reduce the severity of potential impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and noise, as overall development of residential and commercial uses within the Downtown Core would be less than what could under the proposed Project.

Alternative 2 would implement the Downtown Core Project, including amending the General Plan and Zoning and Development Code, in order to create and implement a new General Plan land use category and six new FBC districts specific to the Project Area; however, the amount of development would be reduced. Table 7-3 in the Draft EIR compares the assumed development potential associated with the Reduced Growth Alternative and the proposed Project 2040 buildout. As shown, Alternative 2 would result in approximately 6,291 fewer housing units and 23,843 fewer residents within the Project Area when compared to the proposed Project.

Employment opportunities would be decreased under this alternative, with approximately 5,639 fewer jobs created within the Project Area when compared to the proposed Project.

Aesthetics
Impacts related to Aesthetics were found be less than significant. Both the Downtown Core Project and Reduced Growth Alternative would provide for increased development within the Project Area that would result in densification of the Project Area. However, Alternative 2 would result in decreased densities and intensities in the Project Area when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Future projects under both development scenarios would be subject to applicable Municipal Code requirements. Although buildout of Alternative 2 would result in 6,291 fewer dwelling units in the Project Area and 5,639 fewer jobs, overall the Project Area would experience significant development compared to existing conditions which would change the character and image of the area under both Alternative 2 and the proposed Project. 968
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Future development associated with Alternative 2 and the proposed Project would result in new development and intensification of existing urban uses that may interfere with existing scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills. Views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills are primarily provided from along Sierra Avenue and within the northernmost and southernmost portions of the Project Area. Under both Alternative 2 and the proposed Project, buildings would be limited to heights of 35 feet adjacent to Sierra Avenue and a 55-foot maximum height would be maintained adjacent to street corners within the Gateway Core and Sierra Core.

Since these are the areas wherein views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Jurupa Hills are primarily provided, the height limitations would assist in maintaining these long-range views from the Project Area.

Development under either Alternative 2 or the proposed Project would be guided by the guiding principles established in General Plan Chapter 14, Downtown Area Plan and the proposed Downtown Fontana Development Guide. The Project and Alternative 2 would amend the General Plan to introduce the WMXU-3: Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown Core land use category, which supports a density of 2.1-70 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) and 0.2-2.0 Commercial FAR, and to apply the new land use category to a majority of the Project Area. The new WMXU-3 land use designation would encourage residential development within the Project Area by providing opportunities for higher density residential development to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant and to implement the General Plan goals, policies, and actions. Although Alternative 2 anticipates less development, it would continue to implement the General Plan goals, policies, and actions related to infill development, providing mixed and supportive land uses, revitalizing the Downtown Area, supporting increased activity, increasing connectivity and providing improved amenities and design that encourages walking, bicycling, transit, and other opportunities that reduce motor vehicle trips. Similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would amend Zoning and Development Code Chapter 30 to incorporate the six new FBC districts, including permitted land uses, increased densities and development standards by zoning district, building types, frontage types, general regulations, design and architectural regulations, private open space types, and public open space standards specific to each new FBC District.

Under both Alternative 2 and the proposed Project, the Fontana Development Code provides for project-specific design review of future development proposals within the City, including the Project Area, which would ensure that development is consistent with the General Plan goals, policies, and actions and the specific FBC district development standards. Neither Alternative 2 nor the proposed Project would conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality. As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Agriculture and Forestry Resources
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The Downtown Core Project would result in no impacts to agriculture and forestry resources.

Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns in the Project Area, which is already urbanized. Given that no agriculture and forestry resources would be impacted by the proposed Project, impacts associated with Alternative 2 would be the same and no impacts would occur.

As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Both Alternative 2 and the Downtown Core Project would provide opportunities for trip internalization and increased opportunities for walking and bicycling due to the proposed mix of higher density residential and commercial development. Future development under both Alternative 2 and the proposed Project would be required to adhere to the same policy guidance and local, State, and regional air quality measures. Alternative 2 would result in less development when compared to the proposed Project, resulting in fewer construction-related emissions.

Overall, construction-related emissions would be less than significant under Alternative 2, including for NOx, which would be significant under the proposed Project without mitigation.

Similar to the proposed Project, implementation of Alternative 2 would be required to implement all Air Quality mitigation measures.

Under the proposed Project, operations would exceed the numerical thresholds of significance established by the SCAQMD for emissions of all ROG, NOx, CO, PM10, and PM2.5. In comparison, Alternative 2 would exceed the numerical thresholds of significance established by the SCAQMD for emissions of all ROG during the summer, and ROG and NOx, during the winter. Both the Project and Alternative 2 would be required to implement all Air Quality mitigation measures (refer to Section 5.2). Compared to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would result in fewer 970
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operational emissions and with the exception of ROG and NOx, all emissions would be below significance thresholds.

Although construction emissions at nearby sensitive receptors would be less under Alternative 2, both the proposed Project and Alternative 2 would result in a less than significant impact concerning localized significance thresholds during construction activities. Under the proposed Project the maximum daily emissions of pollutants during operations of future developments could exceed the localized significance thresholds for operation emissions for PM10 and PM2.5.

The maximum daily emissions of pollutants during operations of future developments associated with implementation of Alternative 2 would not exceed the localized significance thresholds.

Conclusion: Both Alternative 2 and the Downtown Core Project provide opportunities for trip internalization and increased opportunities for walking and bicycling due to the proposed mix of higher density residential and commercial development. While land uses and development under Alternative 2 would be required to adhere to the same policy guidance and local, State, and regional air quality measures as the Downtown Core Project, the decrease in residential units and non-residential building square footage, and the corresponding reduction in construction emissions, operational emissions, and potential reductions in overall traffic volumes would result in reductions in air emissions under Alternative 2 when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Biological Resources
The Project Area is generally urbanized and developed with residential and non-residential uses.

As described in Section 5.3, Biological Resources, the Downtown Core Project does not include any specific development proposals and would not result in significant direct impacts to existing biological resources. However, subsequent development and redevelopment activities associated with implementation of the proposed Project could occur on undeveloped sites that have been revegetated or result in the removal of ornamental vegetation, potentially resulting in direct impacts to Burrowing Owl or nesting birds. Future development associated with implementation of the proposed Project would be required to implement Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 (General Plan EIR MM-BIO-1 and MM-BIO-2). Mitigation Measure BIO-1 requires that for sites containing suitable habitat, a qualified biologist conduct a pre-construction survey prior to ground disturbing or vegetation disturbing activities to determine the presence or absence of burrowing owl within the proposed area of impact and appropriate actions if occupied burrows are discovered. Mitigation Measure BIO-2 provides an alternative if avoidance of clearing of vegetation and removal of trees is not feasible between non-nesting (or non-breeding) season for nesting birds to ensure their protection. Compliance with Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the California Fish and Game Code, would ensure that protected birds are not adversely affected during construction activities accommodated as part of the Downtown Core Project and impacts would be reduced to less than significant. 971
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Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. The existing General Plan Land Use Map does not designate any open space within the Project Area. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 would reduce potential impacts to Burrowing Owl or nesting birds to less than significant. The impact to biological resources under the Downtown Core Project and Alternative 2 would remain the same. As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2 would reduce potential impacts to historical resources and archaeological resources to less than significant. The impact under Alternative 2 would remain the same compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. While land uses and development under Alternative 2 would be 972
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required to adhere to the same local, State, and regional measures regulating energy usage as the Downtown Core Project, the decrease in residential units and non-residential building square footage, and the corresponding reduction in electricity and gas for the operation of buildings, diesel fuel for off-road construction activities, and potential reductions in gasoline due to a decrease in the overall traffic volumes would result in reductions in energy usage under Alternative 2 when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns as the Downtown Core Project. Since the Project Area is the same under both development scenarios, similar physical constraints related to geology and soils exist. The potential for new development to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with seismic ground shaking and geologic instabilities would be similar under this Alternative and the Downtown Core Plan. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2 would reduce potential impacts to paleontological resources to less than significant. Further, new development would be required to comply with the California Building Code and applicable Municipal Code requirements. As such, Alternative 2 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Although the proposed Project would be required to comply with regulations imposed by the State of California and the SCAQMD aimed at the reduction of air pollutant emissions, the 973
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proposed Project as a whole would generate emissions beyond the identified threshold for residential and commercial land uses, and as such, would have a cumulatively significant and unavoidable adverse impact. The Project would be required to implement mitigation measures GHG-1 (General Plan EIR MM-GHG-1, updated), GHG-2, and GHG-3, as well as all Air Quality mitigation measures (refer to Section 5.2). It is noted that when compared to existing conditions, the proposed Downtown Core Project would provide for more residential and commercial development in proximity to each other, as well as in proximity to transit. Further, Project implementation would provide for a denser urban environment with improved amenities that support active (non-motorized) transportation opportunities within the Project Area. When compared to the existing General Plan land use plan for the Project Area, the proposed Downtown Core Project would result in a four percent reduction in VMT per service population.

The Project would also be consistent with plans and policies designed to achieve the State’s GHG reduction goals and the RTP/SCS.

Potential future development associated with implementation of the Alternative 2 would generate GHGs during the construction and operational phases. Similar to the proposed Project, the primary source of construction-related GHGs with implementation of Alternative 2 would result from emissions of CO2 associated with individual development projects’ construction and worker vehicle trips. Additionally, site-specific development would likely require demolition and grading, and would also include site preparation, paving building construction, and architectural coating phases. The operational phase of future development associated with Alternative 2 would generate GHGs primarily from the individual development’s operational vehicle trips and building energy (electricity and natural gas) usage. Operational GHG emissions combined with construction-related GHG emissions associated with implementation of Alternative 2 would be less than the proposed Project; however, they would exceed the SCAQMD’s proposed GHG threshold. Thus, similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 has the potential to result in a cumulatively considerable impact with respect to GHG emissions. Similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would be required to implement mitigation measures GHG-1 (General Plan EIR MM-GHG-1, updated), GHG-2, and GHG-3, as well as all Air Quality mitigation measures (refer to Section 5.2).

Similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would provide for more residential and commercial development in proximity to each other, as well as in proximity to transit when compared to existing conditions. Alternative 2 would provide for a denser urban environment with improved amenities that support active (non-motorized) transportation opportunities within the Project Area. However, when compared to the proposed Project, although Alternative 2 would not exceed the VMT per service population threshold, the VMT per service population would be greater under Alternative 2. Like the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would be consistent with the stated goals of the RTP/SCS. Similarly, Alternative 2 would also be consistent with the stated goals of the RTP/SCS.
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Conclusion: When compared to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would provide fewer opportunities for trip internalization and opportunities for walking and bicycling due to the reduced development potential. While land uses and development under Alternative 2 would be required to adhere to the same policy guidance and local, State, and regional air quality measures as the Downtown Core Project, the decrease in residential units and non-residential building square footage, and the corresponding reduction in construction emissions, operational emissions, and potential reductions in overall traffic volumes would result in reductions in greenhouse gas emissions under Alternative 2 when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Hazards and Hazardous Materials
The Downtown Core Project does not include any specific development proposals; however, future development has the potential to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with hazardous materials. Future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be required to implement Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 (General Plan EIR MM-HAZ-1, updated and MM-HAZ-3, respectively). Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 would require that new proposed facilities involved in the production, use, storage, transport or disposal of hazardous materials be located a safe distance from land uses that may be adversely impacted by such activities, and that new sensitive facilities would not be located near existing sites that use, store, or generate hazardous materials. Mitigation Measure HAZ-2 would require all businesses that handle hazardous materials above the reportable quantity to submit an inventory of the hazardous materials that they manage to the San Bernardino County Fire Department Hazardous Materials Division in coordination with the Fontana Fire Protection District. Implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 and compliance with federal, State, and local regulations would ensure a less than significant impact with regards to hazards and hazardous materials.

Similar to the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 2 would result in additional urban uses including commercial, residential, and mixed-use and public facility development. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 and HAZ-2 would reduce potential impacts from hazards and hazardous materials to less than significant. The potential for new development to expose people or structures to adverse effects associated with hazards and hazardous materials would be similar under this Alternative and the Downtown Core Plan. As such, Alternative 2 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Hydrology and Water Quality
Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would result in less than significant impacts related to Hydrology and Water Quality. While this Alternative would result in less dense and 975
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intense development compared to the Downtown Core Project, all new development would be subject to applicable stormwater and water quality requirements per the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board. This variation in development density and intensity would not substantially alter impacts from or to flooding, water quality, or on groundwater supplies because existing federal, State, and local regulations would apply to guard against flood hazards, water quality contamination, or impact on groundwater supplies. Potential hydrology and water quality impacts associated with Alternative 2, like the proposed Project, would be less than significant.

Alternative 2 would result in slightly reduced development of housing units and non-residential square feet when compared to the Downtown Core Project; however, potential water quality impacts related to construction and operation would be similar. Implementation of the Downtown Core Project would not result in construction, or long-term impacts to surface water quality from urban stormwater runoff. Future development under all alternatives would also be required to submit a SWPPP with BMPs to the RWQCB and comply with all storm water sewer system (MS4) requirements. It would be expected that impacts related to water quality would be similar under Alternative 2 as compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Land Use and Planning
The proposed Downtown Core Project is a long-range land use plan. All impacts related to land use and planning were found to be less than significant under the Downtown Core Update. The proposed Project and Alternative 2 would amend the Fontana General Plan and Zoning and Development Code, including General Plan text and Land Use Map amendments, and amendments to the Zoning and Development Code and Zoning District Map. Alternative 2 would allow for development at similar densities as the proposed Project, but development within each FBC District would not occur to the maximum development potential. Similar to the Project, Alternative 2 would provide for consistency with applicable State and regional plans. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Mineral Resources
The Downtown Core Project would result in no impacts relating to mineral resources. Like the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 2 would accommodate development generally in the same areas, and these areas are, for the most part, already urbanized. Given that no mineral resources would be impacted by the proposed Project, impacts associated with Alternative 2 would be the same and would remain less than significant. As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Noise
While the Downtown Core Project does not directly propose site specific development, future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project could generate 976
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additional noise from construction and operational activities associated with future projects.

Mitigation Measure NOI-1 (General Plan EIR MM-NOI-1, updated) requires a noise study be performed prior issuance of a grading permit and mitigation implemented if noise levels exceed 65 dBA. Mitigation Measure NOI-2 (General Plan EIR MM-NOI-2) provides procedures for construction activities to reduce impacts related to equipment moving and operation. With the exception of traffic noise on existing noise-sensitive uses along identified roadway segments, which would result in a significant unavoidable impact, the Project would not result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project Area in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies with the implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1 and NOI-2. Alternative 2 would have less development when compared to the proposed Project, resulting in a corresponding reduction in construction and operational noise. However, similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would result in substantial permanent increases in existing transportation noise levels at sensitive receptors on a project and cumulative level. As such, Alternative 2 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Population and Housing
Population and employment growth anticipated as a result of Project implementation is within the City’s growth projections of the Fontana Forward General Plan and regional plans. The Downtown Core Project would result in less than significant impacts related to population and housing. As shown in Table 7-2, Alternative 2 anticipates 6,291 fewer residential units which would result in 23,843 fewer residents compared to the Downtown Core Project. Thus, Alternative 2 would be within City and regional growth projections. Similar to the proposed Project, Alternative 2 would result in less than significant impacts related to population and housing. As such, this Alternative would be considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Public Services and Recreation
The Downtown Core Project would result in less than significant impacts relating to public services and recreation. New development would place increased demands on public services such as police, fire, schools, parks, libraries, and other governmental services. Compliance with the Fontana General Plan and Municipal Code would require payment of impact fees to the City and other public agencies to ensure that additional development allowed does not have adverse impacts on these services and agencies. Under Alternative 2, the development area and development types would remain similar, however, there would be fewer jobs, dwelling units, and population when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Thus, impacts to public services (the demand for police, fire and other public services) would be reduced. Overall, Alternative 2 would have reduced impacts to public services when compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project. 977
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Transportation
Transportation impacts associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project would be less than significant. The proposed Project would not conflict with policies, plans, or programs regarding roadways, bicycle, pedestrian, or transit facilities or the performance or safety of those facilities. The Project would support the implementation of policies and programs to provide new and improved facilities to support multi-modal transportation and access within the Project Area.

Similarly, Alternative 2 would provide for increased density and development within the Project Area and would not conflict with policies, plans, or programs regarding roadways, bicycle, pedestrian, or transit facilities or the performance or safety of those facilities.

The proposed Downtown Core Project would result in a VMT per service population below the County threshold. Alternative 2 would also result in a VMT per service population below the County threshold. However, when compared to the Project, Alternative 2 would result in a higher VMT per service population. Part of this reduction is attributed to the increasingly balanced mix of residential and employment opportunities within the Downtown Core Project. As such, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Tribal Cultural Resources
While the Downtown Core Project does not directly propose site-specific development with the potential to directly impact tribal cultural resources, future development associated with implementation of the Downtown Core Project could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of known or unknown tribal cultural resources. Future development within the Project Area would be required to implement Mitigation Measure CUL-1 (General Plan EIR MMCUL-1, updated), which requires a qualified archaeologist to perform a number of tasks prior to construction activities, including conducting a field survey for historical resources within portions of the project site not previously surveyed if evidence suggests the potential for resources to exist. In addition, future development would be required to implement Mitigation Measure CUL2 and TCR-1 (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-2 and MM-CUL-3, updated). Mitigation Measure CUL-2 would ensure that if any prehistoric archaeological resources are encountered before or during grading, the developer shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor construction activities and to take appropriate measures to protect or preserve them for study. Additionally, Mitigation Measure CUL-2 has been updated to include implementation of TCR-1 in the event Native American cultural resources are discovered. Mitigation Measure TCR-1 requires that in the event Native American cultural resources are discovered during construction for future development, all work in the immediate vicinity of the find shall cease and a qualified archaeologist meeting Secretary of Interior standards shall be hired to assess the find; that the City/project applicant initiate consultation between the appropriate Native American tribal entity and transfer cultural resources investigations to the appropriate Native American entity as soon as possible; and that a Native American Monitor from the appropriate Native American entity is utilized where 978
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deemed appropriate or required by the City, during initial ground disturbing activities, cultural resource surveys and/or cultural resource excavations. Compliance with existing federal, State, and local regulations, including the General Plan and implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and TCR-1 would reduce potential impacts to tribal cultural resources to less than significant.

Alternative 2 would result in similar development patterns and a similar development footprint as the Downtown Core Project. As with the proposed Project, incorporation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and TCR-1 would reduce potential impacts to tribal cultural resources to less than significant. The potential impact to tribal cultural resources under Alternative 2 would remain relatively similar compared to the proposed Project. As such, Alternative 2 is considered neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project.

Utilities and Service Systems
The Downtown Core Project would result in less than significant impacts relating to utilities and service systems. New development under either Alternative 2 or the proposed Project would place increased demands on utilities. Under Alternative 2, the Project Area would be developed with similar development patterns and uses as the Downtown Core Project; however, the overall residential and non-residential development would be less. Therefore, overall demand on utilities and service systems would be less when compared to the proposed Project. However, both Alternative 2 and the proposed Project would likely require the construction or expansion of new utilities to serve the site-specific development that is being proposed. The quantity of infrastructure installed would not be substantially reduced, as the Project Area is urbanized and contains existing utilities infrastructure. The potential environmental effects associated with infrastructure projects would be similar under Alternative 2 and the proposed Project. Similarly, storm drainage runoff under Alternative 2 would be approximately the same when compared to the proposed Project, due to the general development footprint remaining the same for this alternative when compared to the Downtown Core Project. Since demand for utilities would be less under Alternative 2 due to the lower associated development, Alternative 2 would be considered environmentally superior to the Downtown Core Project.

Wildfire
The Project area is not located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones; the Downtown Core Project would result in no impacts related to wildfire. Like the Downtown Core Project, Alternative 2 would accommodate development generally in the same areas, and these areas are, for the most part, already urbanized. Given that the Project Area is not located in an area of high fire hazard potential, impacts associated with Alternative 1 would be the same and no impacts would occur. As such, Alternative 2 would be neither environmentally superior nor inferior to the Downtown Core Project. 979
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Ability To Meet The Project Objectives: The Reduced Growth Alternative would attain the Project’s fundamental objectives, allow potentially to a lesser extent, including providing for new residential development opportunities in order to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant; establish FBC districts that encourage housing and supporting commercial development; create and apply a new land use category for the Project Area to provide consistency and allow for development at the densities and intensities needed to implement the FBC districts; enhance the pedestrian experience and promote walkability, by ultimately closing a quarter-mile portion of Sierra Avenue to vehicular traffic; providing objective development standards that would facilitate permitting of housing projects; and creating a Downtown Fontana Development Guide to serve as a "how-to" guide for the development community so that the City can realize its vision for the Downtown.

2.8.2 Environmentally Superior Alternative
CEQA requires that an environmentally superior alternative be identified among the alternatives that are analyzed in the EIR. If the No Project Alternative is the environmentally superior alternative, an EIR must also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(2)). The environmentally superior alternative is that alternative with the least adverse environmental impacts when compared to the proposed Project.

Alternative 2 (Reduced Growth Alternative) is the environmentally superior alternative when looked at in terms of all potential environmental impacts. While it would not completely eliminate the Project’s significant and unavoidable impacts, Alternative 2 would lessen the majority of the environmental impacts associated with the proposed Project. Both alternatives fail to reduce any significant and unavoidable impacts to a less than significant level.

Although the Reduced Growth Alternative would attain the Project’s fundamental objectives, it would do so to a lesser extent when compared to the Project. Specifically, Alternative 2 would not provide for new residential development opportunities in order to meet the goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant to the extent of the proposed Project since it would allow for significantly fewer residential units than would be allowed by the Project. One of the primary objectives of the Project is to provide for new residential opportunities that encourage housing types targeted to young people and young families and to promote revitalization and redevelopment of the downtown, providing for the transformation of downtown into a vibrant local and regional destination. The Project would allow for realization of these objectives, which would further support implementation of the City’s Housing Element. The Project would provide the development potential and opportunities to support the long-term plan for revitalization of the Downtown Core. Therefore, since the Reduced Growth Alternative would not fully meet the 980
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Project objectives and would not eliminate the Project’s significant and unavoidable impacts, it has been considered and rejected.

3.0 Statement of Overriding Considerations
The City Council hereby declares that it has balanced the benefits of the Downtown Core Project against any unavoidable environmental impacts in determining whether to approve the Downtown Core Project. Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, if the benefits of the Downtown Core Project outweigh its unavoidable adverse environmental impacts, those impacts may be considered “acceptable.”
Having reduced the adverse significant environmental effects of the Downtown Core Project to the extent feasible by adopting the Mitigation Measures contained in the EIR, the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP), and herein, having considered the entire administrative record on the Downtown Core Project, and having weighed the benefits of the Downtown Core Project against its unavoidable adverse impacts after implementation of all feasible mitigation, the City Council has determined that each of the following social, economic and environmental benefits of the Downtown Core Project separately and individually outweigh the potential unavoidable adverse impact and render those potential adverse environmental impacts acceptable based upon the following overriding considerations:

A. The Downtown Core Project provides for new residential development opportunities, including multi-family housing and higher residential densities in select areas, providing improved housing opportunities at varying income levels consistent with the City’s Housing Element and goals of the SB 2 Planning Grant.

B. The Downtown Core Project establishes FBC districts that encourage housing and support commercial development, providing socioeconomic co-benefits of mixed-use development.

C. The Downtown Core Project provides opportunities and guidance to enhance the pedestrian experience and promotes walkability, through the creation of compact and walkable urban village-style design in new developments and by ultimately closing a quarter-mile portion of Sierra Avenue to vehicular traffic, consistent with local and regional objectives.

D. The Downtown Core Project provides objective development standards that would facilitate permitting of housing projects and reduce housing costs in compliance with the Housing Element.

E. The Downtown Core Project creates a Downtown Fontana Development Guide to encourage and incentivize continued economic investment in the Downtown through a clear process and set of standards that allows for development to respond to market 981
157
conditions and reflect changing consumption patterns and preferences for retail, housing, and other life- style choices.

F. The Downtown Core Project provides market-driven opportunities for future investment and practical implementation strategies for the continued success and health of the Downtown Core.

G. The Downtown Core Project would provide new residential and non-residential development opportunities in an area with access to retail, services, and public transportation, thereby reducing vehicle trips and supporting reduced vehicle miles traveled consistent with regional goals.

H. Through the Downtown Fontana Development Guide, the Downtown Core Project provides a "how-to" guide for the development community so that the City can realize its vision for revitalization and redevelopment of the Downtown.

The City Council hereby declares that the foregoing benefits provided to the public through the approval and implementation of the Downtown Core Project outweigh the identified significant adverse environmental impact of the Downtown Core Project that cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. The City Council finds that each of the Downtown Core Project’s benefits separately and individually outweigh all of the unavoidable adverse environmental effects identified in the EIR and therefore finds those impacts to be acceptable.

4.0 Additional Facts on Record

4.1 Adoption of a Monitoring Plan for Mitigation Measures Pursuant to Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code, the City of Fontana hereby adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (“MMRP”). The City finds that the MMRP is designed to ensure compliance with the changes (i.e., mitigation measures) imposed on the Downtown Core Project to mitigate or avoid effects on the environment during Project implementation. The MMRP is on file with the City of Fontana Planning Department, 8353 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335.

4.2 Custodian of Record
The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings have been based are located at the City of Fontana Planning Department, 8353 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335. The custodian for these records is Salvador Quintanilla, Senior Planner. This information is provided in compliance with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6. 982
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(Exhibit B) Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Checklist Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks

AIR QUALITY
AQ-1: In the event that any off-site utility and/or
infrastructure improvements are required as a direct result of future projects, construction of such off-site utility and infrastructure improvements shall not occur concurrently with the demolition, site preparation, and grading phases of project construction. This requirement shall be clearly noted on all applicable grading and/or building plans. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-8)
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-2: All construction equipment shall be maintained in good operation condition so as to reduce emissions. The construction contractor shall ensure that all construction equipment is being properly serviced and maintained as per the manufacturer’s specification. Maintenance records shall be available at the construction site for City of Fontana verification. The following additional measures, as
determined applicable by the City Engineer, shall be included as conditions of the Grading Permit issuance:
 Provide temporary traffic controls such as a flag
person, during all phases of construction to maintain
smooth traffic flow.
 Provide dedicated turn lanes for movement of
construction trucks and equipment on- and off-site.
 Reroute construction trucks away from congested
streets or sensitive receptor areas.
 Appoint a construction relations officer to act as a
community liaison concerning on-site construction
activity including resolution of issues related to
PM10 generation.
 Improve traffic flow by signal synchronization and
ensure that all vehicles and equipment will be
properly tuned and maintained according to
manufacturers’ specifications.

Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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 Require the use of 2014 and newer diesel haul
trucks (e.g., material delivery trucks and soil
import/export). If the lead agency determines that
2014 model year or newer diesel trucks cannot be
obtained the lead agency shall use trucks that meet
EPA 2007 model year NOX and PM emissions
requirements.
 During project construction, the construction plans
and specifications shall state that off-road diesel
construction equipment rated at 150 horsepower
(hp) or greater, complies with Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA)/California Air Resources
Board (CARB) Tier 4 off-road emissions standards
or equivalent, or the most recent standards released
by CARB as part of the rulemaking process, and
shall ensure that all construction equipment is tuned
and maintained in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications. The Lead Agency
shall conduct an on-site inspection to verify
compliance with construction mitigation and to
identify other opportunities to further reduce
construction impacts. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ9, updated) AQ-3: Prior to the issuance of any grading permits, all Applicants shall submit construction plans to the City of Fontana denoting the proposed schedule and projected
equipment use. Construction contractors shall provide
evidence that low emission mobile construction equipment will be utilized, or that their use was investigated and found to be infeasible for the projects. Contractors shall also conform to any construction measures imposed by the
SCAQMD as well as City Planning Staff. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-10)
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-4: All asphalt shall meet or exceed performance
standards noted in SCAQMD Rule 1108. (General Plan EIR
MM-AQ-13)
Prior to the
issuance of
grading or
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Timing
Responsible
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Initials Date Remarks
building permits,
whichever
occurs first
AQ-5: Prior to the issuance of grading permits or approval of grading plans for future development projects within the project area, future developments shall include a dust control plan as part of the construction contract standard
specifications. The dust control plan shall include measures to meet the requirements of SCAQMD Rules 402 and 403.

Such measures may include, but are not limited to:
 Phase and schedule activities to avoid high-ozone
days and first-stage smog alerts.
 Discontinue operation during second-stage smog
alerts.
 All haul trucks shall be covered prior to leaving the site to prevent dust from impacting the surrounding
areas.
 Comply with AQMD Rule 403, particularly to
minimize fugitive dust and noise to surrounding
areas.
 Moisten soil each day prior to commencing grading
to depth of soil cut.
 Water exposed surfaces at least twice a day under
calm conditions, and as often as needed on windy
days or during very dry weather in order to maintain
a surface crust and minimize the release of visible
emissions from the construction site.
 Treat any area that will be exposed for extended
periods with a soil conditioner to stabilize soil or
temporarily plant with vegetation.
 Wash mud-covered tired and under carriages of
trucks leaving construction sites.
 Provide for street sweeping, as needed, on adjacent
roadways to remove dirt dropped by construction
vehicles or mud, which would otherwise be carried
off by trucks departing project sites.

Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Initials Date Remarks
 Securely cover all loads of fill coming to the site
with a tight-fitting tarp.
 Cease grading during periods when winds exceed
25 miles per hour.
 Provide for permanent sealing of all graded areas,
as applicable, at the earliest practicable time after
soil disturbance.
 Use low-sulfur diesel fuel in all equipment.
 Use electric equipment whenever practicable.
 Shut off engines when not in use. (General Plan EIR
MM-AQ-14)
AQ-6: Future individual projects within the Project Area shall be required to comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113 – Architectural Coatings.

No person shall apply or solicit the application of any architectural coating within the SCAQMD with VOC content in excess of the values specified in a table incorporated in the Rule. A list of manufacturers of low/no-VOC paints is
provided at the following SCAQMD website:
http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/defaultsource/planning/architectural-coatings/reporting-andsupport-documents/rule-314-manufacturers.pdf?sfvrsn=4.

All paints will be applied using either high volume lowpressure spray equipment or by hand application.

Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-7: Plans, specifications and contract documents shall require that a sign must be posted on-site stating that construction workers shall not allow diesel engines to idle in excess of five minutes.

Prior to the
issuance of
grading or
building permits,
whichever
occurs first
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-8: Future individual projects within the Project Area shall be required to use electric or alternative fueled construction equipment where technically feasible and/or commercially available. Technically feasible and/or
commercially available means the equipment is readily
Prior to the
issuance of
grading or
building permits,
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Initials Date Remarks
available, there is no significant technical impediment to conducting construction activities with the clean construction equipment that is available at that time, and that the clean construction equipment can perform adequately when
compared to gasoline or diesel fueled construction
equipment.
whichever
occurs first
AQ-9: To reduce energy demand associated with potable
water conveyance, future projects shall implement the
following, as applicable:
 Landscaping palette emphasizing drought tolerant
plants.
 Use of water-efficient irrigation techniques.
 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Certified WaterSense equivalent faucets, highefficiency toilets, and water conserving shower heads. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-2)
Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-10: Future projects shall comply with applicable
provisions of state law, including the California Green Standards Code (Part 11 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-3)
Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-11: The applicant/developer shall encourage its tenants to use alternative-fueled vehicles such as compressed natural gas vehicles, electric vehicles, or other alternative fuels by providing publicly available information from the Southern California Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD),
California Air Resources Board (CARB), and U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on alternative fuel technologies. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-4)
Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-12: To promote alternative fuels and help support
“clean” truck fleets, the developer/successor-in-interest shall provide building occupants and businesses with information related to the Southern California Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Carl Moyer Program, as well as other SCAQMD incentives and programs available or other state programs that restrict operations to “clean” trucks, such as Ongoing during
operations
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
2007 or newer model year or 2014 complaint heavy-duty
vehicles, and information about the health effects of diesel particulates, the benefits of reduced idling time, California Air Resources Board regulations, and the importance of not parking in residential areas. If trucks older than 2007 model year would be used at the project site, the
developer/successor-in-interest shall encourage tenants, through contract specifications, to apply in good-faith funding for diesel truck replacement/retrofit through grant programs such as, but not limited to, the Carl Moyer, Prop 18, VIP [On-Road Heavy Duty Voucher Incentive Program], HVIP [Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher
Incentive Project], and SOON [Surplus Off-Road Opt-In for NOX] funding programs, as identified on SCAQMD’s
website (http://www.aqmd.gov/home/programs). Tenants
would be required to use those funds, if awarded. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-5)
AQ-13: The applicant/developer shall encourage its tenants to use water-based or low volatile organic compound (VOC) cleaning products by providing publicly available
information from the Southern California Air Quality
Management District (SCAQMD), California Air Resources
Board (CARB), and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) on such cleaning products. (General Plan EIR MMAQ-6) Ongoing during
operations
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-14: All on-site forklifts shall be non-diesel and shall be powered by electricity, compressed natural gas, or propane if technically feasible. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-7)
Ongoing during
operations
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-15: All residential and commercial structures shall be required to incorporate high efficiency/low polluting heating, air conditioning, appliances, and water heaters. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-20)
Prior to the
issuance of the
Certificate of
Occupancy
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
988
164
Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
AQ-16: All residential and commercial structures shall be required to incorporate thermal pane windows and weatherstripping. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-21) Prior to the
issuance of the
Certificate of
Occupancy
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-17: All residential and commercial structures shall be required to incorporate light colored roofing materials. (General Plan EIR MM-AQ-22, updated)
Prior to the
issuance of the
Certificate of
Occupancy
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-18: The minimum number of automobile electric vehicle (EV) charging stations required by the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24 shall be provided. As agreed by the Applicant and Lead Agency, final designs of Project Area buildings shall include electrical infrastructure sufficiently sized to accommodate the potential installation of additional auto EV charging stations.

Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-19: Future individual projects within the Project Area shall not discharge from any source whatsoever such
quantities of air contaminants or other material that cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or to the public, or that endanger the comfort, repose, health, or safety of any such persons or the public, or that cause, or have a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or property.

Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-20: Future individual projects within the Project Area shall be required to comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1301 – General. This rule is
intended to provide that pre-construction review
requirements to ensure that new or relocated facilities do not interfere with progress in attainment of the NAAQS, while future economic growth within the South Coast Air Quality Management District is not unnecessarily restricted. The specific air quality goal is to achieve no net increases from new or modified permitted sources of nonattainment air
contaminants or their precursors. Rule 1301 also limits Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
emission increases of ammonia, and Ozone Depleting
Compounds (ODCs) from new, modified or relocated
facilities by requiring the use of Best Available Control Technology (BACT).

AQ-21: Building operators will require (by contract
specifications) that equipment, including heavy-duty
equipment, motor vehicles, and portable equipment, be
turned off when not in use for more than 5 minutes. Truck idling shall not exceed 5 minutes in time. All facilities will post signs requiring that trucks shall not be left idling for more than 5 minutes pursuant to Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 2485, which limits idle times to not more than five minutes. Nighttime (after 10:00 PM) truck idling would not be permitted.

Ongoing during
construction
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-22: Future individual projects within the Project Area shall be required to maximize the planting of drought
resistant trees in landscaping and parking lots and when/if recycled water becomes available in the future, landscaping shall be supported by this alternative source of water supply.

Prior to the
issuance of
Certificate of
Occupancy
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
AQ-23: Where individual projects within the Project Area require permits from SCAQMD to operate specific types of equipment and processes, the developers/operators shall be required to obtain such permits prior to operation of the specific equipment and processes requiring the permit.

Prior to the
issuance of the
specific permit
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department and
SCAQMD

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
BIO-1:

1. Prior to initial grading or clearing of areas of
suitable habitat within the Project Area (e.g., a
vacant site with a landscape of grassland or lowgrowing, arid scrub vegetation or agricultural use or vegetation), a qualified biologist shall conduct a
pre-construction survey, in accordance with the
CDFG Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation,
to determine the presence or absence of burrowing
owl within the proposed area of impact.

Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
990
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Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks

2. Results of surveys, including mitigation
recommendations (i.e., a Burrowing Owl Mitigation
and Monitoring Report) shall be incorporated into
the project-level CEQA compliance documentation.

3. Construction grading/clearing of areas of suitable
habitat should occur between September 1 and
January 31 to avoid impacts to breeding owls. If
occupied burrows are discovered, they shall not be
removed during nesting season (February 1 through
August 31), unless a qualified biologist can
determine that either the owls have not laid eggs or
are incubating eggs, or that any young from the
burrows are able to forage independently. If initial
grading is scheduled to occur during nesting season,
the following measures shall be implemented.

4. If removal of occupied burrows is necessary,
passive relocation outside of nesting season shall be
implemented under the supervision of the qualified
biologist. This shall include covering/excavation of
burrows and installation of one-way doors as
necessary. One-way doors will allow owls inside
the burrow to exit but not allow them to re-enter.

The biologist shall wait a minimum of one week
before the burrow may be excavated to allow the
owls time to leave the area. (General Plan EIR MMBIO-1) BIO-2: To avoid impacts to nesting birds and to comply with the MBTA, clearing of vegetation and removal of trees
should occur between non-nesting (or non-breeding) season for birds (generally, September 1 to January 31). If this avoidance schedule is not feasible, the alternative is to carry out such activities under the supervision of a qualified biologist. This shall entail the following:

1. A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction nesting bird survey no more than 14 days prior to initiating ground disturbance
activities. The survey will consist of full coverage
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
of the proposed disturbance limits and up to a 500-
foot buffer area, determined by the biologist and
taking into account the species nesting in the area
and the habitat present.

2. If no active nests are found, no additional measures are required.

3. If “occupied” nests are found, their locations shall be mapped, species documented, and, to the degree
feasible, the status of the nest (e.g., incubation of
eggs, feeding of young, near fledging) recorded.

The biologist shall establish a no-disturbance buffer
around each active nest. The buffer area will be
determined by the biologist based on the species
present, surrounding habitat, and type of
construction activities proposed in the area.

4. No construction or ground disturbance activities
shall be conducted within the buffer until the
biologist has determined the nest is no longer active
and has informed the construction supervisor that
activities may resume. (General Plan EIR MMBIO-2)

CULTURAL RESOURCES
CUL-1: A qualified archaeologist shall perform the
following tasks, prior to construction activities within project boundaries:
 Subsequent to a preliminary City review, if
evidence suggests the potential for historic
resources, a field survey for historical resources
within portions of the project site not previously
surveyed for cultural resources shall be conducted.
 Subsequent to a preliminary City review, if
evidence suggests the potential for historic
resources, the San Bernardino County Archives
shall be contacted for information on historical
property records.
 Subsequent to a preliminary City review, if
evidence suggests the potential for sacred land
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Initials Date Remarks
resources, the Native American Heritage
Commission shall be contacted for information
regarding sacred lands.
 All historical resources within the project site,
including archaeological and historic resources
older than 50 years, shall be inventoried using
appropriate State record forms and guidelines
followed according to the California Office of
Historic Preservation’s handbook “Instructions for
Recording Historical Resources.” The archaeologist
shall then submit two (2) copies of the completed
forms to the San Bernardino County Archaeological
Information Center for the assignment of
trinomials.
 The significance and integrity of all historical
resources within the project site shall be evaluated,
using criteria established in the CEQA Guidelines
for important archaeological resources and/or 36
CFR 60.4 for eligibility for listing on the National
Register of Historic Places.
 Mitigation measures shall be proposed and
conditions of approval (if a local government
action) recommended to eliminate adverse project
effects on significant, important, and unique
historical resources, following appropriate CEQA
and/or National Historic Preservation Act's Section
106 guidelines.
 If there is evidence that a historical resource exists or could exist, a technical resources management
report shall be prepared, documenting the
inventory, evaluation, and proposed mitigation of
resources within the project site, following
guidelines for Archaeological Resource
Management Reports prepared by the California
Office of Historic Preservation, Preservation
Planning Bulletin 4(a), December 1989. One copy
of the completed report, with original illustrations,
shall be submitted to the San Bernardino County
993
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Mitigation Measures Implementation
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Initials Date Remarks
Archaeological Information Center for permanent
archiving.
 If human remains or funerary objects are
encountered on the project site, work in the
immediate vicinity (within a 100-foot buffer of the
find) shall cease and the San Bernardino County
Coroner’s Office shall be contacted pursuant to
Health and Safety Code Sections 7050.5 to 7055
and PRC Section 5097.98. If the coroner determines
that the remains are not subject to his or her
authority and if the coroner recognizes the human
remains to be those of a Native American, or has
reason to believe that they are those of a Native
American, the Native American Heritage
Commission shall be contacted within 24 hours.
 All resources and data collected within the project
site shall be permanently curated at an appropriate
repository within the County. (General Plan EIR
MM-CUL-1, updated)
CUL-2: If any prehistoric archaeological resources are
encountered before or during grading, the developer shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor construction activities and to take appropriate measures to protect or preserve them for study. In the event Native American
cultural resources are discovered, the archaeologist, in consultation with the applicant and City of Fontana Planning Department, shall implement Mitigation Measure TCR-1.

With the assistance of the archaeologist, the City of Fontana shall:
 Enact interim measures to protect undesignated
sites from demolition or significant modification
without an opportunity for the City to establish its
archaeological value.
 Consider establishing provisions to require
incorporation of archaeological sites within new
developments, using their special qualities at a
theme or focal point.

Ongoing during
construction
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
994
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Initials Date Remarks
 Pursue educating the public about the area's
archaeological heritage.
 Propose mitigation measures and recommend
conditions of approval (if a local government
action) to eliminate adverse project effects on
significant, important, and unique prehistoric
resources, following appropriate CEQA guidelines.
 Prepare a technical resources management report,
documenting the inventory, evaluation, and
proposed mitigation of resources within the project
area. Submit one copy of the completed report, with
original illustrations, to the San Bernardino County
Archaeological Information Center for permanent
archiving. (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-2)

GEOLOGY AND SOILS
GEO-1: If excavation activities would occur at a depth of greater than five feet on any site mapped as middle to late Pleistocene older alluvium at the surface, a qualified
paleontologist shall conduct a pre-construction field survey.

The paleontologist shall submit a report of findings that provides specific recommendations regarding further
mitigation measures (i.e., paleontological monitoring) that may be appropriate to the City of Fontana Community
Development Department. (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-4,
updated)
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
GEO-2: Should mitigation monitoring of paleontological
resources be recommended for a specific project within the Project Area, the program shall include, but not be limited to, the following measures:
 Assign a paleontological monitor, trained and
equipped to allow the rapid removal of fossils with
minimal construction delay, to the site full-time
during the interval of earth-disturbing activities.
 Should fossils be found within an area being cleared
or graded, earth-disturbing activities shall be
diverted elsewhere until the monitor has completed
Ongoing during
construction
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
995
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Initials Date Remarks
salvage. If construction personnel make the
discovery, the grading contractor shalt immediately
divert construction and notify the monitor of the
find.
 All recovered fossils shall be prepared, identified,
and curated for documentation in the summary
report and transferred to an appropriate depository
(i.e., San Bernardino County Museum).
 A summary report shall be submitted to City of
Fontana. Collected specimens shall be transferred
with copy of report to San Bernardino County
Museum. (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-5)

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
GHG-1: Prior to the issuance of building permits, future development projects shall demonstrate compliance with the SCAQMD threshold for greenhouse gas emissions in place
at the time of individual project development, or if exceeding the applicable threshold, demonstrate the incorporation of project design features that achieve compliance with the SCAQMD threshold for greenhouse emissions in place at the time of individual project development to the maximum
extent feasible. With regard to expansions/modifications of existing facilities, this mitigation measure shall be applied to the resulting incremental net increase in enclosed floor area.

Future projects that exceed the SCAQMD threshold for
greenhouse gas emissions in place at the time of individual project development shall include measures to reduce
emissions, that may include, but not be limited to, the following list of potential design features (which includes measures for reducing GHG emissions related to
Transportation and Motor Vehicles).

Energy Efficiency
 Design buildings to be energy efficient and exceed
Title 24 requirements by at least 5 percent.

Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
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Initials Date Remarks
 Install efficient lighting and lighting control
systems. Site and design buildings to take advantage
of daylight.
 Use trees, landscaping and sun screens on west and
south exterior building walls to reduce energy use.
 Install light colored “cool” roofs and cool
pavements.
 Provide information on energy management
services for large energy users.
 Install energy efficient heating and cooling systems
(e.g., minimum of Energy Star rated equipment).
 Implement design features to increase the efficiency
of the building envelope (i.e., the barrier between
conditioned and unconditioned spaces).
 Install light emitting diodes (LEDs) for traffic,
street and other outdoor lighting.
 Limit the hours of operation of outdoor lighting.

Renewable Energy
 Install solar panels on carports and over parking
areas.
 Use combined heat and power in appropriate
applications.

Water Conservation and Efficiency
 Create water-efficient landscapes with a preference
for a xeriscape landscape palette.
 Install water-efficient irrigation systems and
devices, such as soil moisture-based irrigation
controls.
 Design buildings to be water-efficient. Install
water-efficient fixtures and appliances (e.g., EPA
WaterSense labeled products).
 Restrict watering methods (e.g., prohibit systems
that apply water to non-vegetated surfaces) and
control runoff.
997
173
Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
 Restrict the use of water for cleaning outdoor
surfaces and vehicles.
 Implement low-impact development practices that
maintain the existing hydrologic character of the
site to manage storm water and protect the
environment (retaining storm water runoff on-site
can drastically reduce the need for energy-intensive
imported water at the site).
 Devise a comprehensive water conservation
strategy appropriate for the project and location.

The strategy may include many of the specific items
listed above, plus other innovative measures that are
appropriate to the specific project.
 Provide education about water conservation and
available programs and incentives.

Solid Waste Measures
 Reuse and recycle construction and demolition
waste (including, but not limited to, soil, vegetation, concrete, lumber, metal, and carboard).
 Provide interior and exterior storage areas for
recyclables and green waste and adequate recycling
containers located in public areas.
 Provide education and publicity about reducing
waste and available recycling services.

Transportation and Motor Vehicles
 Limit idling time for commercial vehicles,
including delivery and construction vehicles.
 Promote ride sharing programs (e.g., by designating
certain percentage of parking spaces for ride sharing
vehicles, designating adequate passenger loading
and unloading and waiting areas for ride sharing
vehicles, and providing a web site or message board
for coordinating rides).
998
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 Creating local “light vehicle” networks, such as
neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) systems.
 Provide the necessary facilities and infrastructure to encourage the use of low or zero-emission vehicles
(e.g., electric vehicle charging facilities and
conveniently located alternative fueling stations).
 Promote “least polluting” ways to connect people
and goods to their destinations.
 Incorporate bicycle lanes and routes into street
systems, new subdivisions, and large developments.
 Incorporate bicycle-friendly intersections into street design.
 For commercial projects, provide adequate bicycle
parking near building entrances to promote cyclist
safety, security, and convenience. For large
employers, provide facilities that encourage bicycle
commuting (e.g., locked bicycle storage or covered
or indoor bicycle parking).
 Create bicycle lanes and walking paths directed to
the location of schools, parks and other destination
points. (General Plan EIR MM-GHG-1, updated)
GHG-2: All future individual projects with the Project Area shall be required to construct future buildings to be solar or other clean energy technology compatible, and clean energy ready. Further, for individual structures proposed within the Project Area that are greater than 50,000 square feet, the developer shall ensure that the structure provides solar photovoltaic panel system(s) within 2 years of commencing operations where feasible.

Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
GHG-3: Prior to issuance of building permits, future
individual project developers with more than 10 employees or more than 10 company vehicles shall submit a GHG
Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), at the discretion of the Planning Director, to the City of Fontana for review and approval. The objective of the plan shall be to reduce GHG emissions by a minimum of 10 percent. The GHG ERP shall Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
999
175
Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
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consider and identify GHG emission reductions from the
following emission source categories as part of the ERP:
 Energy source reduction from measure GHG-1
 Implementation of Ride Sharing Program (Mobile
Source)
 Provision of electric vehicle charging stations
(Level 2 or Level 3, Mobile Source)
 Maintenance of an onsite bicycle sharing program
(Mobile Source)
 Establishment and support of a mass transit use
program (including adjusting hours of operations to
complement local mass transit operations, Mobile
Source)
 Provision of secure bicycle parking facilities
(Mobile Source)
 Acquisition of a minimum of one company electric
vehicle or low NOx emission CNG vehicle,
including truck(s) (Mobile source)
 Install low demand water consumption systems,
internally and outdoors (Water Usage source)
 Implement a solid waste management system that
achieves greater than 50 percent recycling (Waste
Management Source)
 Utilize construction equipment that can reduce
GHG and NOx emissions a minimum of 5 percent
(Construction Emissions Source).

HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZ-1: The City shall require that new proposed facilities involved in the production, use, storage, transport or disposal of hazardous materials be located a safe distance from land uses that may be adversely impacted by such activities.

Conversely, new sensitive facilities, such as child-care centers and senior centers, shall not to be located near existing sites that use, store, or generate hazardous materials. (General Plan EIR MM-HAZ-1, updated)
Prior to the
issuance of
building permits
City of
Fontana
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
1000
176
Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
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HAZ-2: The City shall require all businesses that handle hazardous materials above the reportable quantity to submit an inventory of the hazardous materials that they manage to the San Bernardino County Fire Department - Hazardous
Materials Division in coordination with the Fontana Fire Protection District. (General Plan EIR MM-HAZ-3)
Ongoing during
operations
Annual
General Plan
Status Report
Fontana Fire
Protection District
NOISE
NOI-1: Prior to issuance of a grading permit, a developer shall contract for a site-specific noise study for a parcel within 200 feet of a sensitive use as identified within Goal 8 of the 2015-2035 General Plan. The noise study shall be performed by an acoustic consultant experienced in such studies and the consultant's qualifications and methodology to be used in the study must be presented to City staff for consideration. The site-specific acoustic study shall
specifically identify potential noise impacts upon any
proposed sensitive uses, as well as potential project impacts upon off-site sensitive uses due to construction, stationary and mobile noise sources. Mitigation shall be required if noise levels exceed 65 dBA, as identified in Goal 8 of the 2015-2035 General Plan. (General Plan EIR MM-NOI-1,
updated)
Prior to the
issuance of
grading permit
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
NOI-2: To reduce impacts related to heavy construction
equipment moving and operating on site during project
construction, grading, demolition, and paving prior to
issuance of grading permits, the applicant shall ensure that the following procedures are followed:
 Construction equipment, fixed or mobile, shall be
properly outfitted and maintained with feasible
noise-reduction devices to minimize construction
generated noise.
 Laydown and construction vehicle staging areas
shall be located away from noise sensitive land uses
if feasible.

Prior to issuance
of grading
permit
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
1001
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 Stationary noise sources such as generators shall be
located away from noise sensitive land uses, if
feasible.
 Construction hours, allowable workdays, and the
phone number of the job superintendent shall be
clearly posted at all construction entrances to allow
surrounding property owners to contact the job
superintendent 24 hours a day to report noise and
other nuisance-related issues, if necessary. The
point of contact shall be available 24 hours a day, 7
days a week and have authority to commit
additional assets to control dust after hours, on
weekends, and on holidays. In the event that the
City of Fontana receives a pattern of noise
complaints, appropriate corrective actions shall be
implemented, such as on- site noise monitoring
during construction activities, and a report of the
action shall be provided to the reporting party.
(General Plan EIR MM-NOI-2)

TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Refer to Mitigation Measure CUL-1
Refer to Mitigation Measure CUL-2
TCR-1: Site-specific development projects shall implement the following:
 In the event Native American cultural resources are
discovered during construction for future
development, all work in the immediate vicinity of
the find (within a 60-foot buffer) shall cease and a
qualified archaeologist meeting Secretary of
Interior standards shall be hired to assess the find.

Work on the other portions of the project site
outside of the buffered area may continue during
this assessment period;
 The archaeologist, in coordination with the
applicant and City of Fontana Planning Department,
shall contact the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel
National Cultural Resources Department (YSMN),
Ongoing during
construction
Project
proponent
City of Fontana
Planning
Department
1002
178
Mitigation Measures Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Party Monitoring Party Verification
Initials Date Remarks
as well as any other Native American tribal entity
(as determined by a qualified archaeologist meeting
Secretary of Interior standards) of any pre-contact
and/or historic-era cultural resources discovered
during project implementation. The Tribe(s) shall
be provided information regarding the nature of the
find, so as to provide Tribal input with regards to
significance and treatment. Should the find be
deemed significant, as defined by CEQA, a cultural
resources Monitoring and Treatment Plan shall be
created by the archaeologist, in coordination with
YSMN and any other Tribe determined to have
cultural affiliation to the area, and all subsequent
finds shall be subject to this Plan. A copy of the Plan shall be provided to the City of Fontana Planning
Department. The Plan shall identify how Tribal
Cultural Resources will be recovered and retained.

This Plan shall allow for a monitor to be present that
represents YSMN and/or other Tribe(s) determined
to have cultural affiliation for the remainder of
project activities associated with ground
disturbance, should YSMN or another Tribe(s) elect
to place a monitor on‐site;
 Any and all archaeological/cultural documents
created as part of the project (isolate records, site
records, survey reports, testing reports, etc.) shall be supplied to the applicant and City of Fontana
Planning Department for dissemination to YSMN
and other Tribe(s) determined to have cultural
affiliation. (General Plan EIR MM-CUL-3,
updated)
1003
179
1004
ATTACHMENT NO. 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-____

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FONTANA

APPROVING, PURSUANT TO THE CERTIFIED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

REPORT FOR THE DOWNTOWN CORE PROJECT (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2022110624), GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 22-010 (PART NO. 1 OF GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT CYCLE NO. 3 OF 2023) AMENDING THE

GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP AND GENERAL PLAN TEXT FOR CHAPTER 15: LAND USE, ZONING, AND URBAN DESIGN, CHAPTER 9: COMMUNITY MOBILITY AND CIRCULATION, AND CHAPTER 14, DOWNTOWN AREA PLAN,

FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DOWNTOWN CORE TO ALLOW HIGHER

DENSITY HOUSING, MIXED USES, AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT TO

ESTABLISH INCREASED RESIDENTIAL DENSITY, MIXED, AND COMMERCIAL

USES, PROMOTE WALKABILITY, AND CREATE A LOCAL AND REGIONAL DESTINATION IN THE DOWNTOWN.

WHEREAS, the City of Fontana General Plan was adopted by the City Council on November 13, 2018 and the Zoning Code Update was adopted by the City Council on September 19, 2019; and
WHEREAS, on March 28, 2019, the City of Fontana applied for the State of California SB2 grant to secure fundings for the increase in housing development; and WHEREAS, the project site is approximately 478 acres and is bounded by Foothill Boulevard on the north, Randall Avenue on the south, Juniper Avenue on the west, and Mango Avenue on the east; and
WHEREAS, the Downtown Core is a City initiated project that is a part of the State of California’s SB2 legislation to increase housing density in the City; and WHEREAS, it is the City goal to build a downtown that will provide for entertainment, retail, service and residential uses; and
WHEREAS, implementing a new land use designation of Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown Core (WMXU-3) to the General Plan would accommodate higher density residential development and attractive commercial development to make the City’s downtown a local and regional destination hub for entertainment, retail, service and residential uses; and
WHEREAS, amending Chapters 9 (Community Mobility and Circulation),14 (Downtown Area Plan) and 15 (Land Use, Zoning, and Urban Design) of the General Plan will increase residential density within the Downtown Core and establish the Sierra Avenue pedestrian plaza that would facilitate an attractive local and regional destination in the Downtown Core; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Government Code Section 65358 on July 25, 2023 the City Council adopted one General Plan Amendment in the following three parts; MCN No. 22- 1005
Resolution No. 2023-_____

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118 (Downtown Core), MCN22-084 (the Heights at Southridge Project), and MCN No. 22-053 (Citrus/Oleander Industrial Commerce Center Project); and, WHEREAS, all the notices required by statute or the Fontana City Code have been given as required; and
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2023, the Planning Commission received public testimony and evidence presented by City staff (applicants), and other interested parties, at the public hearing held for the project including the Final EIR (State Clearinghouse No. 2022110624), General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 22-010 and Zoning Code Amendment (Zone Change) No. 22-010, and approved and recommended the project for approval to the City Council by Resolution No. 2023-028; and WHEREAS, on July 25, 2023, the City Council conducted a noticed public hearing on the Downtown Core Project Final EIR (State Clearinghouse No. 2022110624), General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 22-010, and Zoning and Development Code Amendment (Zone Change) No. 22-010, received testimony from all parties, and the staff report, as well as testimony from the project applicant and others; and WHEREAS, based on the information presented to the City Council at the public hearing held for General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 22-010, the testimony received, and the supporting documents in evidence, the City Council found that the amendment and project to be in conformance with the goals and policies of the General Plan as referred herein; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (State Clearing House No. 2022110624) was prepared for General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 22-010 and Zoning and Development Code Amendment (Zone Change) No. 22-010, and certified the EIR to address issues of potential concern of the proposed development. A Notice of Determination has been prepared; and
WHEREAS, the City of Fontana wishes to protect and preserve the quality of the life throughout the City, through effective land use and planning.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council RESOLVES as follows:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by this reference.

ECTION 2. CEQA. Consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Pub. Resources Code § 21000 et seq.) and the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), the Downtown Core Project Environmental Impact Report 1006
Resolution No. 2023-_____

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(“EIR”) (State Clearinghouse No. 2022110624) was prepared for the General Plan Amendment and Zoning Code Amendment. The City Council has certified the Downtown Core Project EIR and, based on the CEQA Sections 15162 through 15164, staff has determined that none of the criteria requiring a subsequent environmental document have been met and that further environmental analysis is not required. A Notice of Determination has been prepared.

SECTION 3. Findings. The City of Fontana City Council hereby makes the following findings for General Plan Amendment No. 22-010 in accordance with Section 30-31 “Purpose” of the Fontana Zoning and Development Code:

Finding: The purpose and intent is to keep an updated General Plan to reflect the current desires and needs of the citizens for the longterm growth of the City.

Findings of Fact: The City of Fontana is updating the General Plan in order to allow higher density residential development and to create a destination area in the Downtown for the local and regional communities. This update includes implementing goals and policies designed to allow for higher density residential, mixed and commercial uses, enhanced walkability, and the creation of attractive public spaces through high quality development and an attractive pedestrian plaza. Chapter 9— Community Mobility Circulation, will allow a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Avenue between Arrow Boulevard and Orange Way. Chapter 14—Downtown Area Plan, will designate a plan to create an attractive Downtown and establish a pedestrian plaza. Chapter 15— Land Use, Zoning, and Urban Design, will establish the Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown Core (WMXU-3) to implement the Downtown Core and allow higher density to stimulate an active Downtown.

SECTION 4. Approval. Based on the findings in Section 3, the City Council of the City of Fontana hereby approves General Plan Amendment No. 22-010 to change the land use designation of the project area from Walkable Mixed-Use Corridor & Downtown (WMXU-1) to Walkable Mixed Use Downtown Core (WMXU-3) as shown in Exhibit A and amend the General Plan text of Chapters 9, Community Mobility and Circulation shown in Exhibit B (Attachment No. 3), 14, Downtown Area Plan shown in Exhibit C (Attachment No. 4), and 15, Land Use, Zoning, and Urban Design, as shown in Exhibit D (Attachment No. 5) attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference as fully set forth herein.
1007
Resolution No. 2023-_____

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SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect thirty (30) days after the adoption of the City Council Ordinance adopting Zoning District Map Amendment (Zone Change) No. 22-010, provided however, if the ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, or otherwise does not go into effect for any reason, then this resolution shall be null and void and have no further force and effect.

SECTION 6. Resolution Regarding Custodian of Record. The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which this Resolution has been based are located at the Planning Department, 8353 Sierra Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335.

This information is provided in compliance with Public Resources Code section 21081.6.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of July 2023.

READ AND APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM:
_____________________
City Attorney
ATTEST:

I, Germaine Key, City Clerk of the City of Fontana and Ex-Officio Clerk of the City Council, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is the actual resolution duly and regularly adopted by the City of Fontana at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 25th day of July 2023, by the following vote to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
1008
Resolution No. 2023-_____

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City Clerk of the City of Fontana
Mayor of the City of Fontana
ATTEST:
______________________________________
City Clerk
1009
Resolution No. 2023-_____

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Exhibit A
General Plan Existing Land Use Categories
1010
Resolution No. 2023-_____

Page 7 of 7 ends

1011
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Community
Mobility
and
Circulation
1012
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ This element of the General Plan is focused on connecting neighborhoods and city destinations by expanding transportation choice in Fontana. While the element supports continuing programs to improve travel by cars and trucks, it provides guidance on expanding the options for transit and “active transportation” (pedestrian and bicycle mobility) for Fontana. It is aligned with the SCAG 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy concepts of Neighborhood Mobility Areas and Livable Corridors. These concepts are adapted for the Fontana General Plan Update as “Connected Neighborhoods”; “i3” areas in the central part of the city: and mixed-use development along the central segments of Sierra Avenue, Foothill Boulevard, and Valley Boulevard to form Fontana’s “Livable Corridors.” Fontana’s connected neighborhoods will provide mobility areas with up to 1/2-mile walking radii and 3-mile biking radii for safe, comfortable, convenient pedestrian and bicycle travel for local trips within Fontana to schools, parks, civic sites, and shopping areas. This approach builds on the Safe Routes to Schools program in which Fontana is already participating and the Fontana Unified School District walking-distance criteria for transportation, which currently provide a 1/2-mile walking distance for kindergarten. More transportation choice for non-work trips can replace some auto trips, reducing growth in congestion and air pollution. 1013
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Livable Corridors are arterial corridors with compact, higher-density mixed- use development at commercial centers served by transit, and which are also pedestrian and bike-friendly while accommodating the reality ofsignificant vehicle traffic. Higher-density housing along the Livable Corridors will provide new optionsfor employees of the city’s major employers—Kaiser Hospital, FUSD and city government.

A. Community Mobility and Circulation
in the Fontana Forward Vision And
Principles
VISION
We take advantage of more transportation choices: we can walk and bike to nearby parks, schools and stores, use transit and ride sharing, and drive longer distances as needed.

Connect people and places. Provide safe and
efficient transportation choices, including pedestrian, bicycle, and transit opportunities, along with well- maintained streets, to connect people to city destinations.

C. Findings and Challenges

FINDINGS
Overview
• An excellent transportation system provides an efficient and effective balance

PRINCIPLES
1014
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ B. Goals and Policies

GOALS POLICIES
The City of Fontana has a
comprehensive and balanced
transportation system, with safety and
multimodal accessibility
the top priority of citywide
transportation planning, as well as
accommodating freight movement.
• Provide roadways that serve the needs of Fontana
residents and commerce, and that facilitate safe and
convenient access to transit, bicycle facilities, and
walkways.
• Apply the six “E’s” of the Safe Routes to School program to transportation planning and implementation—
Encouragement, Education, Engineering, Enforcement,
Evaluation, and Equity.
• Make land use decisions that support walking, bicycling, and public transit use, in alignment with the 2016- 2040 Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable
Communities Strategy.
• Monitor the development of autonomous vehicle systems and potential benefits and impacts on Fontana.

Fontana's road network is safe and
accessible to all users, especially the
most vulnerable such as children, youth,
older adults and people with disabilities.
• Design roadway space for all users, including motor
vehicles, buses, bicyclists, mobility devices (such as senior scooters), and pedestrians, as feasible and appropriate for the context.
• Support designated truck routes that avoid negative
impacts on residential and commercial areas while
accommodating the efficient movement of trucks.

Local transit within the City of Fontana
is a viable choice for residents, easily
accessible and serving destinations
throughout the City.
• Maximize the accessibility, safety, convenience, and
appeal of transit service and transit stops.
• Promote concentrated development patterns in
coordination with transit planning to maximize service
efficiency and ridership.

The neighborhood streets of Fontana
maintain a residential character and
support a range of transportation
options.
• Balance neighborhood traffic circulation needs with
the goal of creating walkable and bike-friendly
neighborhoods.
• Develop and implement Best Practice Street Design
standards for new residential street development
projects.

Fontana’s commercial and mixed- use
areas include a multi-functional street
network that ensures a
safe, comfortable, and efficient
movement of people, goods, and
services to support a high quality of life
and economic vitality.
• Provide a transportation network that is compatible with the needs of commerce and those who live, work and
shop in mixed-use areas.
• Encourage mixed use and commercial developments that
support walking, bicycling, and public transit use while balancing the needs of motorized traffic to serve such
developments.

The city has attractive and convenient
parking facilities, including electric
charging stations, for both motorized
and non- motorized vehicles that meet
needs that fit the context.
• Provide sufficient motor vehicle and secure bicycle
parking in commercial and employment centers to
support vibrant economic activity.
• Encourage approaches that reduce the overall number of new parking spaces that must be provided on-site for
new development.
1015
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___

GOALS POLICIES
The City of Fontana participates
in shaping regional transportation
policies to reduce traffic congestion,
pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
• Lead and participate in initiatives to manage regional traffic.
• Coordinate with regional agencies and Caltrans to
participate in regional efforts to maintain transportation infrastructure in Fontana.
• Participate in the efforts of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to coordinate
transportation planning and services that support
greenhouse gas reductions.
• Participate in the efforts by Caltrans to reduce
congestion and improve traffic flow on area freeways.
between access and mobility. The overall goal of transportation is : we travel to reach destinations and the opportunities that those destinations represent. Transportation is accomplished through mobility: our physical movement throughspace.
• The importance of integrating transportation decisions and investments with land use choices is always present. This means that transportation systems should serve land use choices—not the reverse. In making transportation decisions, it is important to weigh potential conflicts and trade-offs according to the specific community goals for a particular area. • Fontana is particularly dependent on its
regional transportation systems, both
because so many residents commute to jobs
outside of the city and because a major
economic sector, logistics, is by definition
linked to freight traffic, both truck and rail.
• A recent study for the California Department
of Transportation (Caltrans) showed that
widening of roads often does not ease traffic
congestion because of “induced demand”—
more roads generate more traffic over both
the shortand the long term because the extra
capacity attracts new trips.
• Innovations now in the early stages of development, such as self-driving vehicles (both passenger cars andtrucks)designedtomake traffic bothmore efficient and safer, may provide solutions to increasing traffic congestion in thefuture.
• The federally-mandated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for Fontana is the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), which covers six counties, including San Bernardino County. SCAG also prepares the state- mandated Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) to integrate land use, housing, and transportation.
• Transportation guidelines in Senate Bill 375 and in Senate Bill 226 promote infill development, development of multimodal transportation networks, and diversification of land uses. Senate Bill 743, newly in effect in 2017, mandates
1016
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ The use of vehicle miles traveled (VMT), rather than vehicle level of service (LOS) as the primary metric for evaluating transportation improvements.

Transportation in Fontana
• Fontana is a major transportation hub, with convenient access to Interstates 10 and 15 and SR-210, two east-west freight rail lines, and one commuter rail line. • Within Fontana, I-10 carries 200,000 average daily trips (ADT) and SR-210 carries more than 100,000 ADT.
• Approximately 42% of Fontana’s working population travels 25 miles or more to work, and 14% travels more than 50 miles to
work. Most commuters drive to work alone to
widely dispersed employment locations.
• Average daily VMT for motorists in Fontana is
among the highest in San Bernardino County
(115.3 miles per day, ranking Fontana fourth
among24 cities).
• The San Bernardino County Transportation
Authority (SBCTA) is planning express lanes on I10 between Los Angeles County and Redlands and on I-15 between Riverside County and the Victor
Valley.
• Sierra Avenue is the most heavily traveled street in Fontana. Immediately north of I-10, it carries an average of 51,500 ADT, rapidly declining to 30,000 ADT through downtown.
• The City maintains 497 miles of streets and has a computerized pavementmanagement system to set priorities for maintenance and improvements. • Fontana is served by Omnitrans, with 10 bus routes, and the Victor Valley Transit Authority, which provides commuter bus service to Barstow and Victorville.
and Ventura counties from downtown, with weekend service and 38 weekday trains serving an average of 372 riders per weekday, as of late 2015. • Fontana’sbicyclenetworkexpandedinrecentyears,especiallywiththe Pacific Electric Trail linking to otherInland Empire communities. • Fontana completed its Active Transportation Plan for Safe Routes to Schools projects to improve pedestrian access to schools for school children. • Fontana is designing the north extension of the San Sevaine Trail that will connect Heritage Village with Etiwanda High school, providing a non-motorized route to school for students. • Fontana is very car-dependent, even for short trips within the city.

EXHIBIT 9.1 COMMUTING CHOICES OF FONTANA RESIDENTS
1017
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ • Health data for Fontana indicate that both adults and youth have lowerrates of physical activity compared with county and state averages.

D. Hierarchy of Streets in
Fontana
A roadway functional classification or Hierarchy of Streets (See Exhibit 9.2 Hierarchy of Streets) has
been established for the City of Fontana. When planning for new development, redevelopment and City initiated Capital improvements Projects, roadway design must consider space for all users. Historically streets in Fontana, like most cities, were designed according to capacity and Level of Service for automobiles with little consideration for the complete streets principles. Moving forward Fontana will use a Multimodal Level of Service as a measurement in the rating of the performance of streets. Balancing transit, bicycle, and pedestrians with level of service. Street Hierarchy will dictate the number or travel lanes while improvements for bicycle, pedestrian and public transit connectivity. Where in the past land use would dictate transportation systems, now moving Fontana Forward, transportation systems will serve land use choices.

Additional right-of-way dedication beyond the approved typical travel lane requirements may be required in order to accommodate turn lanes, center medians, intersection improvements and complete street improvements. The roadway hierarchy of streets are briefly described in the following paragraphs.

Major Highways:

Major highways will have up to 6 lanes in most situations. Where Major Highways cross Freeways it may be necessary to increase capacity to 8 lanes. These streets typically have raised medians or two-way left turn lanes. These facilities can carry high volumes of traffic. The majority of the Major Highway network in the City has already been improved. Sidewalks and bike lanes should be added whenever possible and bus bays should be installed as turnouts. New development should incorporate Complete Street components as outline in the Active Transportation.

Primary and Secondary Highways:

These roadways will have up to 4 travel lanes. Primary Highways typically connect Major Highways and often have raised medians or two way left turn lanes.

Secondary Highways also have up to 4 lanes of travel and are typically used to carry traffic along the perimeters of large developments. Because traffic volumes are not as high as compared to Major Highways, these wide roads are ideal for Complete Street concepts.
1018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1019
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1020
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1021 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1022 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1023 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1024 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1025 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Collector Streets:

These roadways can accommodate 2 or 4 lanes of traffic. They are typically used to take traffic from neighborhoods to Primary and Secondary Roads. Collector Roads are also used in industrial areas to funnel trucks from their point of services to the Truck Route Network. Whether connecting residents to Primary Roads or trucks to Truck Routes, collector streets are ideal candidates for Complete Street concepts. Where possible, physical buffers such as land- scaped parkways or solid dividers should be used to separate vehicular traffic from bicycles and pedestrians.

Local Streets:

These are 2 lane roads in large part serving residential neighborhoods. In addition to Complete Street concepts, traffic calming measures should be incorporated whenever possible. Local streets should consider automobile parking curb adjacent with bike lanes striped along the roadside of the parking area.

Downtown Corridor
Sierra Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

For the first phase, which is expected to be implemented within three to five years, Sierra Avenue consists of a two-lane street with one lane going north and the other going south. A raised medium is required between both lanes with landscaping, bike lanes with buffer and sidewalk. Parallel parking is provided along both lanes with a bike lane and sidewalk.

The second phase will transition the corridor to exclusively pedestrian access, focusing on community connectivity. This new pedestrian plaza, which will feature bike lanes, seating areas, walkways and landscaping, will be the central community gathering place in the redeveloped Downtown. The implementation of the second phase will be driven by market factors including redevelopment and community demand.

Arrow Boulevard (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Arrow Boulevard will allow up to six lanes for drive aisles and turning lanes. A raised medium and parallel parking are required.

Orange Avenue (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Orange Avenue will allow up to five lanes for drive aisles and turning lanes. Parallel parking and bike lanes are included.

Nuevo Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

This section of Nuevo Avenue will allow two lanes for automobile traffic traveling south. Parking and bike lanes are included.

Wheeler Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

This section of Wheeler Avenue will allow two lanes for automobile traffic traveling south. Parking and bike lanes are included.
1026
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Valencia Avenue (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Valencia Avenue will allow two driving lanes. Parallel parking and bike lanes are included.

CHALLENGES
• Reducing trafficcongestion.
• Providing more transportation choice fortrips within Fontana. • Creating safe, comfortable and convenient alternatives to driving. • Reducing the commuting burden for Fontana residents.
• Improving transit service, coverage,reliability, convenience, andcomfort. • Reducing trafficcongestion.

D. WhattheCommunitySaid
Public opinion survey
Respondentswhoexpressedthattheywereverysatisfiedorsomewhatsatisfied with the following public services:
• —77.7%
• —74.3%
Respondentsrankedthefollowingpotentialfutureprioritiesashighormedium priorities:
• —90.8%
• —86.7%
• —83.6%
• —79.6%
• —74.2%
1027
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ A Complete Street provides
safe and accessible travel
options for all modes—
walking, biking, transit, and
vehicles—for people of all
ages and abilities.

CommunityWorkshop and meeting input
• Fill in gaps in sidewalk network
• Improve walking and biking safety
• Expand transitoptions
• Offer public transit for seniors lacking cars
• Address traffic speeds with traffic calming
• Address freeway interchange capacity
• Address overpasses and underpasses at railroad tracks for emergency vehicles
• Sierra Avenue between Foothill Boulevard and Valley
Boulevard is too congested
• Improvements for traffic flow and speed needed on Valley Boulevard cross streets • Roads to be safer with use of street lights and trees • Electric stations for cars and bikes
• Don’treduce narrow streets for bike lanes
1028
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ E. Policies andActions
toAchieve the Goals
Goal 1: The City of Fontana has a comprehensive and balanced transportation system with safety and multimodal accessibility the top priority of citywide transportation planning, as well as accommodating freight movement.

POLICIES
•
•
•
•

ACTIONS
EXHIBIT 9.8 MULTI-WAY SEGMENTS FOR THE LIVABLE CORRIDORS 
San Bernardino
Ave
1029
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 

1030
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 


1031
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 
.

Goal 2: Fontana’sstreet network issafe andaccessibletoall users, especially the most vulnerable such as children, youth, older adults and people with disabilities.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS

1032
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Goal 3: Local transit within the City of Fontana is a viable choice for residents, easily accessible and serving destinations throughout the city.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1033
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 1034
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Goal 4: Fontana’s neighborhood streets maintain a residential character and support a range oftransportation options.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
Goal 5: Fontana’s commercial and mixed-use areas include a multifunctional street network that ensures a safe,
comfortable, and efficient movement of people, goods, and servicesto support a high quality of life and economic vitality.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1035
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ Goal 6:The cityhas attractive and convenient parking facilities for both motorized and non-motorized vehicles that fit the context.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1036
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 



1037
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___ 
Goal 7: The city of Fontana participates in shaping regional transportation policies to reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

POLICIES
•
•
•
•
1038
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023___

ACTIONS
F. Getting Started

ACTION RESPONSIBLE PARTY
Coordinate transportation with land use decision making Traffic Engineering Department, Planning
Division
Seek funding for the San Sevaine Trail implementation Engineering Department
1039
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Community
Mobility and
Circulation
1040
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- This element of the General Plan is focused on connecting neighborhoodsand city destinations by expanding transportation choice in Fontana. While the element supports continuing programstoimprovetravelbycars andtrucks,it provides guidance on expanding the options for transit and “active transportation” (pedestrian and bicycle mobility) for Fontana. It is aligned with the SCAG 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy concepts of Neighborhood Mobility Areas andLivable Corridors.These concepts are adapted forthe Fontana GeneralPlanUpdateas “Connected Neighborhoods”; “i3” areas in the central part of the city: and mixed-use development along the centralsegments of Sierra Avenue, Foothill Boulevard, andValley Boulevard to form Fontana’s “LivableCorridors.” Fontana’s connected neighborhoods will provide mobility areas with up to 1/2-mile walking radii and 3-mile biking radii for safe, comfortable, convenient pedestrian and bicycle travel for local trips within Fontana to schools, parks, civic sites, and shopping areas. This approach builds on the Safe Routes to Schools program in which Fontana is already participating and the Fontana Unified School District walking-distance criteria for transportation, which currently provide a 1/2-mile walking distance for kindergarten. More transportation choice for non-work trips can replace some auto trips, reducing growth in congestion and air pollution. 1041
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Livable Corridors are arterial corridors with compact, higher-density mixed- use development at commercial centersserved by transit, and which are also pedestrian and bike-friendly while accommodating the reality of significant vehicle traffic.

Higher-density housing along the Livable Corridors will provide newoptionsfor employees of the city’s major employers—Kaiser Hospital, FUSD and city government.

A. Community Mobility and
CirculationintheFontana
ForwardVisionAndPrinciples
VISION
We take advantage of more transportation choices: we can walk and bike to nearby parks, schools, stores, use transit and ride sharing, and drive longer distances as needed.

Findings and Challenges

FINDINGS
Overview
• An excellent transportation system provides an efficient and effective balance.

PRINCIPLES
1042
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- B. Goals and Policies

GOALS POLICIES
The City of Fontana has a
comprehensive and balanced
transportation system, with
safety and multimodal
accessibility
the top priority of citywide
transportation planning, as well
as accommodating freight
movement.
• Provide roadways that serve the needs of Fontana
residents and commerce, and that facilitate safe and
convenient access to transit, bicycle facilities, and
walkways.
• Apply the six “E’s” of the Safe Routes to School program to transportation planning and implementation—
Encouragement, Education, Engineering, Enforcement,
Evaluation, and Equity.
• Make land use decisions that support walking, bicycling, and public transit use, in alignment with the 2016- 2040 Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable
Communities Strategy.
• Monitor the development of autonomous vehicle systems and potential benefits and impacts on Fontana.

Fontana's road network is safe
and accessible to all users,
especially the most vulnerable
such as children, youth, older
adults and people with
disabilities.
• Design roadway space for all users, including motor
vehicles, buses, bicyclists, mobility devices (such as senior scooters), and pedestrians, as feasible and appropriate for the context.
• Support designated truck routes that avoid negative
impacts on residential and commercial areas while
accommodating the efficient movement of trucks.

Local transit within the City
of Fontana is a viable choice
for residents, easily
accessible and serving
destinations throughout the
City.
• Maximize the accessibility, safety, convenience, and
appeal of transit service and transit stops.
• Promote concentrated development patterns in
coordination with transit planning to maximize service
efficiency and ridership.

The neighborhood streets of
Fontana maintain a
residential character and
support a range of
transportation options.
• Balance neighborhood traffic circulation needs with
the goal of creating walkable and bike-friendly
neighborhoods.
• Develop and implement Best Practice Street Design
standards for new residential street development
projects.

Fontana’s commercial and mixeduse areas include a multifunctional street network that ensures a
safe, comfortable, and efficient
movement of people, goods, and
services to support a high quality
of life and economic vitality.
• Provide a transportation network that is compatible with the needs of commerce and those who live, work and
shop in mixed-use areas.
• Encourage mixed use and commercial developments that
support walking, bicycling, and public transit use while balancing the needs of motorized traffic to serve such
developments.

The city has attractive and
convenient parking facilities,
including electric charging
stations, for both motorized and
non- motorized vehicles that
meet needs that fit the context.
• Provide sufficient motor vehicle and secure bicycle
parking in commercial and employment centers to
support vibrant economic activity.
• Encourage approaches that reduce the overall number of new parking spaces that must be provided on-site for
new development.
•
1043
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023-

GOALS POLICIES
The City of Fontana participates
in shaping regional
transportation policies to
reduce traffic congestion,
pollution and greenhouse gas
emissions
• Lead and participate in initiatives to manage regional traffic.
• Coordinate with regional agencies and Caltrans to
participate in regional efforts to maintain transportation infrastructure in Fontana.
• Participate in the efforts of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to coordinate
transportation planning and services that support
greenhouse gas reductions.
• Participate in the efforts by Caltrans to reduce
congestion and improve traffic flow on area freeways.
between access and mobility. The overall goal of transportation is : we travel to reach destinations and the opportunities that those destinations represent. Transportation is accomplished through : our physical movement throughspace.
• The importance of integrating transportation decisions and investments with land use choices is always present. This means that transportation systems should serve land use choices—not the reverse. In making transportation decisions, it is important to weigh potential conflicts and trade-offsaccording to the specific community goals for a particular area. • Fontana is particularly dependent on its
regional transportationsystems,both
because so many residents commute to jobs
outside of the city and because a major
economic sector, logistics, is by definition
linked to freight traffic, both truck and rail.
• A recent study for the California Department
of Transportation (Caltrans) showed that
widening of roads often does not ease traffic
congestion because of “induced demand”—
more roads generate more traffic over both
the shortand the long term because the extra
capacity attracts new trips.
• Innovations now in the early stages of development, such as self-driving vehicles (both passenger cars andtrucks)designedtomake traffic bothmore efficient and safer, may provide solutions to increasing traffic congestion in thefuture.
• The federally-mandated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for Fontana is the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), which covers six counties, including San Bernardino County. SCAG also prepares the state- mandated Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) to integrate land use, housing, andtransportation.
• Transportation guidelines in Senate Bill 375 and in Senate Bill 226 promote infill development, development of multimodal transportation networks, and diversification of land uses. Senate Bill 743, newly in effect in 2017, mandates
1044
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- The use of vehicle miles traveled (VMT), rather than vehicle level of service (LOS) as the primary metric for evaluating transportation improvements.

Transportation in Fontana
• Fontana is a major transportation hub, with convenient access to Interstates 10 and 15 and SR-210, two east-west freight rail lines, and one commuter rail line.
• Within Fontana, I-10 carries 200,000 average daily trips (ADT) and SR-210 carries more than 100,000 ADT.
• Approximately 42% of Fontana’s working population travels 25 miles or more to work, and 14% travels more than 50 miles to work. Most commuters drive to work alone to widely dispersed employment locations. • Average daily VMT for motorists in Fontana is among the highest in San Bernardino County (115.3 miles per day, ranking Fontana fourth among24 cities).
• The San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) is planning express lanes on I-10 between Los Angeles County and Redlands and on I15 between Riverside County and the Victor Valley. • Sierra Avenue is the most heavily traveled street in Fontana. Immediately north of I-10, it carries an average of 51,500 ADT, rapidly declining to 30,000 ADT through downtown.
• The City maintains 497 miles of streets and
has a computerized pavement- management
system to set priorities for maintenance and
improvements.
• Fontana is served by Omnitrans, with 10 bus
routes, and the Victor Valley Transit
Authority, which provides commuter bus
service to Barstow and Victorville.
• Metrolink provides passenger rail service to
Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and
Ventura counties from downtown, with
weekend service and 38 weekday trains
serving an average of 372 riders per
weekday, as of late 2015.

EXHIBIT 9.1 COMMUTING CHOICES OF FONTANA RESIDENTS
• Fontana’s bicycle network expanded in recent
years, especially with the Pacific Electric Trail linking to other Inland Empire communities.
• Fontana completed its Active Transportation Plan and for Safe Routes to Schools projects to improve pedestrian access to schools for school children.
• Fontana is designing the north extension of the San Sevaine Trail that will connect Heritage Village with Etiwanda High School, providing anonmotorized route to school for students. • Fontana is very car-dependent, even for short trips within the city. 1045
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- • Health data for Fontana indicate that both adults and youth have lowerrates of physical activity compared with county and state averages.

D. Hierarchy of Streets in
Fontana
A roadway functional classification or Hierarchy of Streets (See Exhibit 9.2 Hierarchy of Streets) has
been established for the City of Fontana. When planning for new development, redevelopment and City initiated Capital improvements Projects, roadway design must consider space for all users. Historically streets in Fontana, like most cities, were designed according to capacity and Level of Service for automobiles with little consideration forthe complete streets principles. Moving forward Fontana will use a Multimodal Level of Service as a measurement in the rating of the performance of streets. Balancing transit, bicycle, and pedestrians with level of service. Street Hierarchy will dictate the number or travel lanes while improvements for bicycle, pedestrian and public transit connectivity. Where in the past land use would dictate transportation systems, now moving Fontana Forward, transportation systems will serve land use choices.

Major Highways:

Primary and Secondary Highways:

These roadways will have up to 4 travel lanes. Primary Highways typically connect Major Highways and often have raised medians or two way left turn lanes.

Secondary Highways also have up to 4 lanes of travel and are typically used to carry traffic along the perimeters of large developments. Because traffic volumes are not as high as compared to Major Highways, these wide roads are ideal for Complete Street concepts.
1046
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023 -
1047
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1048
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1049
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1050
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1051
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1052
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023 -
1053
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023 -
1054
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023 -
1055
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Collector Streets:

Local Streets:

Downtown Corridor
Sierra Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

Arrow Boulevard (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Arrow Boulevard will allow up to six lanes for drive aisles and turning lanes. A raised medium and parallel parking are required.

Orange Avenue (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Orange Avenue will allow up to five lanes for drive aisles and turning lanes. Parallel parking and bike lanes are included.

Nuevo Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

This section of Nuevo Avenue will allow two lanes for automobile traffic traveling south. Parking and bike lanes are included.

Wheeler Avenue (South of Arrow Blvd and North of Orange Ave):

This section of Wheeler Avenue will allow two lanes for automobile traffic traveling south. Parking and bike lanes are included.
1056
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Valencia Avenue (East of Nuevo Ave and West of Wheeler Ave):

This section of Valencia Avenue will allow two driving lanes. Parallel parking and bike lanes are included.

E.WhattheCommunitySaid
Public opinion survey
Respondentswhoexpressedthattheywereverysatisfiedorsomewhatsatisfied with the following public services:
• —77.7%
• —74.3%
Respondentsrankedthefollowingpotentialfutureprioritiesashighormedium priorities:
• —90.8%
• —86.7%
• —83.6%
• —79.6%
• —74.2%
1057
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- CommunityWorkshop and meeting input
• Fill in gaps in sidewalk network
• Improve walking and biking safety
• Expand transitoptions
• Offer public transit for seniors lacking cars
• Address traffic speeds with traffic calming
• Address freeway interchange capacity
• Address overpasses and underpasses at railroad tracks for emergency vehicles
• Sierra Avenue between Foothill Boulevard and Valley Boulevard is too congested
• Improvements fortraffic flowandspeedneededonValleyBoulevardcross streets • Roads to be safer with use of street lights and trees • Electric stations for cars and bikes
• Don’treduce narrow streets for bike lanes
A Complete Street provides
safe and accessible travel
options for all modes—
walking, biking, transit, and
vehicles—for people of all
ages and abilities.
1058
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- E. Policies andActions
toAchieve the Goals
Goal 1: The City of Fontana has a comprehensive and balanced transportation system with safety and multimodal accessibility the top priority of citywide transportation planning, as well as accommodating freight movement.

POLICIES
•
•
•
•

ACTIONS
EXHIBIT 9.8 MULTI-WAY SEGMENTS FOR THE LIVABLE CORRIDORS 
San Bernardino
Ave
1059
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 

1060
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 


1061
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 
Goal 2: Fontana’sstreet network issafe andaccessibletoall users, especially the most vulnerable such as children, youth, older adults and people with disabilities.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS

1062
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Goal 3: Local transit within the City of Fontana is a viable choice for residents, easily accessible and serving destinations throughout the city.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1063
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 1064 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Goal 4: Fontana’s neighborhood streets maintain a residential character and support a range oftransportation options.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
Goal 5: Fontana’s commercial and mixed-use areas include a multifunctional street network that ensures a safe, comfortable, and efficient movement of people, goods, and services to support a high quality of life and economic vitality.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1065
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- Goal 6: The city has attractive and convenient parking facilities for both motorized and non-motorized vehicles that fit the context.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
1066
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 



1067
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 
Goal 7: The city of Fontana participates in shaping regional transportation policies to reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

POLICIES
•
•
•
•
1068
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023-

ACTIONS
F. Getting Started

ACTION RESPONSIBLE PARTY
Traffic Engineering
Department, Planning
Division
Coordinate transportation with land use decision
making
Traffic Engineering
Department, Planning
Division
Seek funding for the San Sevaine Trail
implementation
Engineering
Department
1069
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.1 Downtown Area Plan

SECTION PAGE
Introduction - Downtown Area Plan Rationale 2
A. Downtown Area Plan Guiding Principles 4
B. Findings, Challenges And Opportunities 6
C. What the Community Said 12
D. Goals And Policies 14
E. Downtown Area Plan Intent And Authority 16
F. Placemaking Strategy for the Downtown 18
G. Downtown Core 20
Goal 1: A Livable Public Realm 24
Goal 2: Buildings Shape the Public Realm 32
Goal 3: An Activity-Rich Downtown 40
Goal 4: Park-Once District 49
Goal 5: Clear Branding And Wayfinding 51
Getting Started 53
H. Gateway Corridors 55
Goal 1: Foothill Boulevard Gateway 57
Goal 2: South Sierra Avenue Gateway 59
Goal 3: Corridor Infill 61
Getting Started 65
I. In-Town Neighborhoods 67
Goal 1: Shady Streets And Open Spaces 69
Goal 2: Neighborhood-Scaled Blocks 71
Goal 3: Neighborhood-Scaled Buildings 73
Getting Started 77
CHAPTER 14
1070
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.2 Downtown Area Plan Rationale
Through the Fontana Forward public process for Fontana’s new General Plan, a central element of the vision for Fontana’s future was to broaden and diversify the community’s offerings of housing, retail and lifestyle choices beyond its recent and current “bedroom suburb” emphasis. The following represent the primary goals identified with support from the Community.

1. Develop more walkable, transit-servable neighborhoods (i3 Neighborhoods) that provide a broader range of housing types for a wider range ofhousehold sizes, ages, income levels andlifestyles.

2. Develop “Livable Corridors” that include a mix of commercial amenities, job-generating businesses and a range of housing types along some of Fontana’s major street corridors in order to bring more amenities within walking or biking distance of existing neighborhoods and to provide new housing and employment near planned transit stops.

3. Make Downtown Fontana a destination - a lively mixed-use district andculturalhub-that morepeoplewanttovisitmoreoftenandspend more time, and money. This goal was overwhelmingly embraced by Fontana Forwardparticipants.

Theabove ideasarepresentedinmoredetail
in Sections 14 and 15 ofthis General Plan.

As the conversationturnedtothequestion
of where in Fontana such districts,
neighborhoods and corridors might be most
appropriate andpracticalto implement
in Fontana, it quickly became clear that
CentralFontana(generallybetweenFoothill
BoulevardandI-10,as shownonthefacing
page)wasparticularlysuitablebasedon:
• The availability of sizable quantities of vacant andunderutilized land; • The factthatthe streetnetwork inthis area couldeasilybe adaptedto such interconnected development patterns;
• A broad community consensus that such places could “fit in” well in Central Fontana, and less so farther to the north or south; and;
• Reinvestment in this part of town could also be valuable in supporting the revitalization of the Downtown.

For more information on how these conclusions were reached, please see the “Findings and Challenges” and “What the Community Said” sections of the Downtown Area Plan, Sections C and D, respectively.

Central Fontana).
1071
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.3

Map not to scale
1072
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.4 A
Downtown Area Plan Guiding Principles

1. Pursue high quality development.

Downtown Fontana is a real place with its
own unique identity and character. The
quality of new developmentshould build on
the qualities of it historic commercial and
civic buildings to help conserve its heritage
and character.

2. Connect people and places. Make human
scale connections wherever possible -
the success of downtown businesses is
directly related to the ability of customers
Green brings life to a street
to easily find and access them.

3. Be business-friendly. To take maximum
advantageofDowntown's central location,
existing amenities, and opportunities
for growth it will be important that
the business community and the City
of Fontana actively recruit and
enthusiastically welcome and support new and
growing businesses.

4. Support education, careers and job- related
growth. Downtown already includes a mix of
educational institutions, cultural amenities,
and underutilized properties. This is an ideal
mix to support additionaleducational
opportunities, new businesses, and
entrepreneurial activities to generate good
new local jobs.

5. Make healthy lifestyles easyand
fun. Create reasons and places for the
community to gather and join together in
shared activities; make streets memorable
spaces where it's comfortable to be a
pedestrian and cyclist.

Invite people to walk and bike
Historic Fontana as inspiration for the future
1073
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.5

6. Pursue a greener and more comfortable
public realm. California’s best downtowns
have strong street tree canopies that help to
define the streets and other public spaces as
outdoorrooms and provide shelter from the
sun and wind.

7. Ensure fairness and opportunity for all
parts of the city. The Downtown is the part
of town most intended to be shared by
everyone. Make it attractive and easy for
local business to locateand grow in the
Downtown, and encourage a variety of
housing typeslocated within a comfortable
walk toDowntown.

8. Be cost effective and flexible. Needs and
wants evolve over time, and Downtown
buildings more than most are easily
adaptable to changing businesses and
activities. Maintain flexibility to take
advantageoffutureopportunities,without
compromising other principles.

9. Act transparently. Reviving Downtown is a
big job and without the strong support of
the Fontana community and City
government, it won’t happen. Trust,
consensus, enthusiasm andcommitment will
need to be built, before building streets and
buildings.

10. Pursue goals through partnerships.

Attracting business and development in the
downtown will require collaboration with the
business community.

Gathering places can be found in unexpected places
Make room for the creative and the entrepreneurial
Downtown will be plentiful if we make it happen
1074
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.6 B
Findings And Challenges

FINDINGS
Overview
The Downtown Area Plan encompasses approximately one square mile around the historic Downtown, centered on the intersection of Sierra Avenue and Arrow Boulevard. The following findings were made based on a review of the existing built environment in this area and a review of applicable policies and regulations in Fontana's current planning and zoning documents.

LandUsePatternsAnd
ZoningFindings
• Downtown Urban Patterns:

Fontana’s central area has a low
scale urban form and semiconnective road network that
reflects its history as an
agricultural community and small
factory town.
• Historic Resources and
Patterns: The Downtown Area
includes the highest concentration
of historic buildings in town,
including the Fontana Women’s
Packing House, Art Depot
(formerly the Red Car station),
and several historic homes. In
many cases inappropriate
improvements have degraded
their quality.
• Vacant and Underutilized
Land: Many parcels very close
to Downtown are substantially
vacant, previously used as
farmland, storage yards, or car
dealerships.
• Existing Zoning/Regulations:

Current zoning anddevelopment
standards are single use zones,
including low density housing,
commercial of various types, light
industrial, and public/civic facilities.

Findings were previously gathered at multiple
community workshops, analyzed, and presented
back to the community in order to identify key
challenges and opportunities facing Downtown.
1075
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.7 Key characteristics of these zones include: 1) residential intensities of 12 dwelling units per acre and less; and, 2) commercial and industrial zones in which housing or mixed-use development are not allowed.

Housing—Findings
• Single-Family: Housing in the Downtown area
primarily consists of single-family homes, most
built from the 1920s and 1980s. In most cases
garages face the street, while some are accessed
by rear alley.
• Multifamily Housing: Most multifamily
housing in Downtown is focused on belowmarket-rate affordable units and/or senior living. Community input confirmed that the
tall security fences surrounding many of these
properties are a response to the perception that
such housing is associated with high crime
rates.
• SeniorHousing: Most of the multi-family
housing in the Downtown Area is senior
housing, many below- market-rate. In the
mid-2000s, the City built several hundred
senior units adjacent to the Metrolink Station.
• Affordable Family Housing: According to
SCAG’s 2021-2029 Regional Housing Needs
Assessment (RHNA), the City of Fontana is
projected to need 17,519 additional units –
46% of which (8,059) are to be for extremely
low income, very low income and low income
households. 1
• Student Housing: Currently there are no
housing options well suited to college
students in the Downtown area. Chaffey and
Westech College are commuter campuses.

Chaffey College Master Vision Plan
anticipates an approximately 40% growth in
enrollment from 3,270 to over 4,600 by 2025.
"The Fountains at Sierra" at the
intersection of Sierra and Ceres is one of
five senior multifamily buildings built in
the mid-2000s.

Example of existing single-family homes
and neighborhoods near Downtown -
Upland Avenue.
1076
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.8 Access, Circulation and Mobility —Findings
• Vehicular CirculationandParking: Additional parking will be needed to support the higher level of activities associated with the revitalized downtown.
• Pedestrian Circulation: Pedestrian circulation is
enabled but has not been prioritized in Downtown.

Infrastructure trends in recent decades have resulted
in relatively wide, fast vehicular travel lanes, and
narrow sidewalks with infrequent crosswalks and
few mid-block crossings. In some cases, pedestrian
crossings are 1/4 mile apart or more.
• Bicycle Circulation: Current bicycle facilities in the On-street parking is often full, whilepublic
lots are often unmarked and underutilized.

Wide streets with few crossings contribute
to lower levels of pedestrian and bicycle
use.

Downtown include:
> Class I (dedicated, buffered): The regional Pacific
Electric Trail (PET) travels 6.4 miles across the City
east to west. The PET is the only fully dedicated
and buffered bicycle route in the City of Fontana
and allows for multi-use, but is not heavily used
due to perceived public safety concerns.
> ClassII (dedicated,unbufferedlanes):There are
two Class II lanes in the Downtown, along Ceres
and Juniper Avenues.
> Class III "Sharrows" (shared with vehicular
lanes): The majority of these lanes are found in
Downtown along on Sierra, Foothill, Arrow and
Cypress. However in most cases the prevailing
vehicular speeds are higher than the 25 m.p.h. ideal
speed or 35 m.p.h. top recommended speed for
shared lanes.
1077
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.9 • Metrolink: Metrolink is generally perceived as a
valuable regional asset in Fontana, although train
timing and stopping locations often conflict with
traffic.
• Public Transit: Omnitrans currently provides eight
bus routes with local and regional access to
Downtown (Route 10, 14, 15, 19, 20, 61, 66 and 67).

The primary transit hub is adjacent to the Fontana
Metrolink Station.
• Sierra Avenue: Sierra Avenue is the primary spine
through Fontana's historic core and extends to the
north and south connecting of Fontana's newer
neighborhoods, and major commercial and industrial
centers to Downtown. It also provides direct access to
the I-10, I-15 and 210 freeways. Currently, the
Downtown segment of Sierra (from Merrill to
Foothill) carries between 30,000 and 40,000 average
daily traffic (ADT) along four lanes - this segment is
not a designated Truck Route.
• Foothill Boulevard: Foothill Boulevard is the
primary east-west corridor for the City of Fontana
and the north gateway to the Downtown Plan Area.

Historically part of Route 66, Foothill Boulevard
accommodates over 40,000 ADT travel lanes. Some
Route 66-era buildings and uses remain, but most of
this corridor is characterized by a mix of commercial
uses and vacant parcels.
• Arrow Boulevard: Arrow Boulevard is a second
cross-valley highway, mostly four lanes but two to
the west, and carries less than half the traffic of
Foothill Boulevard, approximately 20,000 ADT.
• Merrill Avenue: On the south edge of the
Downtown Area, Merrill Avenue runs east to west,
carrying approximately 15,000 ADT in four lanes.

Merrill Avenue primarily serves local commuters
and provides direct access to Chaffey College and
local bus routes.

FontanaMetrolinkStation—aregional
asset for the City
Sierra Avenue — the primary north-south
corridor through the City and Downtown
Classic Route 66 era buildings along
Foothill Boulevard
1078
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.10 Fontana Memorial Rose Gardens
along Spring Street

Open Space and Recreation—Findings
The Downtown Area Plan is home to the following
parks and open spaces:
• MillerPark(5.6ac.)andAmphitheater (planned):

Located immediately behind Lewis Library, this park
currently hosts a number of community events
including Concerts at the Park. There are current
plans for the park to be developed into an
amphitheater as a central event venue and community
gathering place.
• SevillePark(3.8ac.):SevilleParkislocatedonthe
westernedge oftheDowntownAreaPlan.
• Santa Fe Park (1.0 ac.): This centrally located
park, at the corner of Orange Way and Sierra
Avenue, is considered to be largely underutilized,
with great potential for community events.
• MemorialRoseGardens(0.6ac.): The rose
gardens, located on the north side of Spring Street,
are loved by many residents,
• CitrusBerms(PETadjacent): The citrus berms,
currently run parallel to the PET between Juniper
and Emerald Avenue. The berm configuration is
not well liked or used by the community.

Citrus berms parallel to the PET
1079
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.11

CHALLENGES
The following challenges were identified through an analysis of the findings:

Pedestrian-Oriented Design
• Existing corridors prioritize vehicular speed and convenience over pedestrian safety and comfort.
• Downtown lacks a complete, safe, comfortable pedestrian network - in particular crosswalks are long and mid-block crossings are few. • There is an absence of shade and wind protection throughout the Downtown area.
• There is a perceived lack of safety along streets, and in open spaces.

Traffic and Parking
• The primary street corridors connect Fontana, but their current design makes Downtown a "pass-through district", rather than a destination.
• Wide travel lanes in the Downtown are associated with vehicular speeds that are higher than desirable for a walkable mixed-use district.
• There is a perceived lack of parking throughout the Downtown — many public on- and off-street spaces go underutilized.

Zoning Regulations
• Existing zoning, parking requirements and permit processes deter many businesses from locating Downtown.
• Existing commercial zoning regulations for the Downtown Core were written for suburban strip malls and do not allow construction of simple downtown building types without variances.
• Current zoning regulations, combined with low land values, result in prime Downtown locations being used for warehousing, surface parking or remain vacant.
• Current zoning regulations limit residential densities to 12 dwelling units per acre (DU/A) and limit mixed-use, providing little ability or incentive for new investment to unlock latent land values and uses.

Economic Development
• The absence of a clear vision for or management of Downtown Fontana has resulted in a limited variety of retail and commercial uses, and a lack of housing. This lack of vision or focus has led to a gradual decline the economic activity that typically drives the success of a downtown.

Downtown Character and Urban Design
• Out-of-date building safety and seismic standards limit the reuse of many older buildings in the Downtown.
• Certain facade improvements and inconsistent street improvements have led to a disjointed, generally low quality urban design image. 1080
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.12 C
What The Community Said
This section summarizes public comments gathered through a series of community workshops and interviews for the Downtown Area Plan. Interviewees included residents, property owners, business owners and local employers, real estate professionals and developers, City Staff, and members of the local Chamber of Commerce and General Plan Advisory Committee. Many
Fontanans would like their Downtown to:

Downtown Character
• Be a local and regional destination for
retail, employment, culture, and housing,
building upon Fontana's historic character.
• Be a comfortable gathering place for future
generations, with a wide range of amenities
for families and visitors of all ages.

Economic Development
• Have regulations and incentives that
supportavarietyofretailandcommercial
businesses, small and locally-owned
businesses inparticular.
• Offer a wide variety of everyday
conveniences suchas bakeries,
coffee shops, service businesses,
boutiques and restaurants.
• Offer overnight lodging for visitors.

Streetscape and Public Realm Improvements
• Have tree-lined streets that provide shade and wind protection, with landscaping and lighting that contribute to a safe, comfortable atmosphere.
• Provide wide sidewalks and frequent crossings on corridors to strengthen connections between shopping areas, neighborhoods and open spaces.
• Transform Foothill Boulevard and reflect its Route 66 heritage. • Design beautiful streets and open spaces to accommodate special events.

The consultant team engaged community
members at Sunset on Sierra, July 30, 2016. The
consultant team attended both formal and
informal events in order to reach a wide range of
local residents and stakeholders.
1081
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.13 Infill andDevelopment
• Restore or redevelop older properties.
• Creatively adapt historic buildings to
accommodate new uses.
• Attract infill development and re-investment in
the Downtown with catalytic streetscape
improvements.
• Update zoning and development standards to
help ensure high-quality architecture and
construction.
• Allow higher-intensity residential and mixed-use
development to attract a mix of housing options
for a range of household sizes, ages, incomes and
lifestyles.
• Update zoning to allow neighborhood scale multifamily and attached single-family infill housing types.

Open Space
• Reimagine and improve the Pacific Electric Trail
(PET) as a civic park linking the Civic Center to the
Downtown Core.
• Replace berms and most citrus trees along Seville
with more useful and attractive open space
amenities.

Parking Organization and Management
• Provide convenient parking throughout the
Downtown.
• Enhance pedestrian connections to parking facilities. • Add parallel, diagonal and perpendicular parking
along selected street edges and in medians.
• Identify and reserve key locations for shared
parking facilities.

Planning Process and Regulation
• Simplify entitlement processes and conflicts
between zoning requirements and the General Plan.
• Allow for Conditional Use Permits (CUP's) that
enable longer operating hours, reduced parking
ratios, and additional alcohol licenses, where
warranted, to help attract new businesses.
• Adopt building standards that enable historic and
older buildings to be feasibly adapted to new uses.
• Create a Downtown Management District to
coordinate programming, management, maintenance
and parking.

In addition to map markups and
surveys, community members
shared comments and ideas in
public forums at the end of each
workshop or public gathering.
1082
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.14 D
Goals AndPolicies

GOALS POLICIES
Fontana Becomes a Local and Regional Destination
Make Downtown Fontana an important
regional destination for dining,
shopping, entertainment, special
events, culture and education.
• Encourage a mix of uses in the downtown
core, appealing to a wide range of customer
types, with a focus on families.
• Prioritize the Downtown Area for available
street and park improvement funding.
• Support regional transit initiatives that provide
enhanced access to the Downtown Area.
• Take specific actions that facilitate development
including process streamlining, review of fees
and staff dedication.

Economic Growth And Development
Make the Downtown Area a preferred
location for new businesses and jobs in
Fontana and the greater region.
• The City will actively recruit and provide
incentives for businesses of many types to
relocate to or expand in the Downtown area.
• The City will pursue “pink zone” strategies to
reduce the time and cost to establish or
expand a business, thereby "lightening the red
tape”.
• The City will provide incentives for businesses to
employ local workers.

A Range of New Housing
Provide housing for a broad range of
household sizes, types and incomes
within the Downtown Area to help
support the health and growth of the
downtown economy.
• Encourage mixed-use development within the
Downtown and along major corridors.
• Encourage new medium and high density
housing on vacant and underutilized parcels
within the neighborhoods of the Downtown
Area.
• Ensure that new infill development is
compatible in scale and character with the
existing neighborhoods.
• Ensure that transportation and utility
infrastructure keeps pace with infill
development so that the neighborhood
character and quality steadily improves over
time.
• Encourage new “in-town” housing types
targeted to young people and young families to
help attract and retain the next generation of
Fontanans.
1083
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.15

GOALS POLICIES
Strengthened Connections Between Downtown Core And Major Corridors Reinvigorate the Foothill and Sierra Corridors
with a mix of retail, employment, mixed-use
and housing development as an economic
engine for the Downtown Area, and as
gateways to Downtown.
• Ensure that future street improvements to Foothill
and Arrow Boulevards and Sierra Avenue improve
the appearance and pedestrian environment while
accommodating traffic flows.
• In addition to high quality commercial
development, encourage housing in
appropriate forms along these corridors.
• Concentrate higher development intensities within
a 1/4 mile of planned transit stops, with shared
parking arrangements when feasible.

Pedestrian-Oriented Design
Ensure that a beautiful, comfortable,
pedestrian-oriented public realm seamlessly
connects the Downtown district,
neighborhoods and major corridors of the
Downtown Area.
• Require that new development systematically
contribute to an interconnected network of
complete streets and pedestrian connections.
• Encourage new development to provide
amenities for passive and active recreation, in
scale with the size and type of development.
• Prioritize available public improvement funds and
developer contributions to systematically
generate a strong urban tree canopy for shelter
from summer sun and strong winds.
• Incorporate a pedestrian plaza within the
Downtown Core.

Center for Education
The area along Sierra Avenue and Merrill
Street will become a College District, with a
mix of housing
and employment surrounding and supporting
the growing Chaffey College campus.
• The City will work collaboratively with the
College to attain this goal.
• Encourage higher density housing on appropriate
sites that is targeted to student, faculty and staff.
• Encourage the formation and growth of
start-up and spin-off businesses related to or
supported by the College on appropriate sites.

Public Art
Embrace the arts as a public benefit.

Establish an environment that
encourages participation and
patronization of the arts in the
Downtown area.
• Support temporary and permanent artwork
installations in the Downtown area through
promotion of an Art in Public Places program.
• Explore and invest in programs to encourage
art and arts-related events and businesses in
the Downtown.

Historic Preservation
The Downtown Area will respect and
reflect the heritage and unique character of
Fontana.
• The City will encourage and provide incentives for
the preservation, rehabilitation, and adaptive
reuse of historic buildings.
• The City will provide incentives for the
adaptive reuse of existing buildings and
facade and other improvements that
contribute to the vision of theDowntown.
• New zoning standards and design guidelines will
focus on ensuring that new infill development
respects the scale and character of Fontana’s
historic building fabric.
1084
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.16 E
Downtown AreaPlan Intent and
Authority
Intent
The intent of this Plan is to provide a comprehensive vision for the Downtown Area, organized into specific goals, strategies and actions to direct and coordinate the implementation of that vision over time.

Because successful downtowns are cohesive, immersive, human scale environments in which private buildings , commercial activity, public spaces, civic institutions, and community life seamless meld together, it is critical that such a Plan address and coordinate the design and management of the public realm with existing and new private development and business activities. For this reason, this Plan and the parallel Downtown Development Code are focused on encouraging, shaping and coordinating each new public improvement and each new private development project to generate the sort of beautiful, unique, lively, comfortable Downtown that Fontanans envision as the historic and future heart of their community.

The new Downtown Core provides updated zoning regulations for the Core focus area within a new Walkable Mixed Use-3 land use category.

This land use category will accommodate higher residential densities and mixed uses supportive of a more walkable and vibrant downtown. 1085
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.17 Downtown is a place for shopping, living, working, recreation and community life - Ventura, California. 1086
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.18 F
Placemaking Strategy for the Downtown
As a framework for systematically improving the urban character, function and value of Downtown Fontana, the Downtown area is divided into three primary districts or "Place Types," the Downtown Core, Gateway Corridors and In-Town Neighborhoods. The vision for and defining characteristics of each of these Place Types—along with prioritized strategies and actions—are described in this Plan. Following adoption of the Downtown Area Plan, new zoning will provide design standards that will be the regulatory tool that guides the implementation of the concepts described in this plan.

Downtown Core
The Downtown Core is made up of the six distinct but complementary subdistricts below:

Civic Core
The Civic Core district would involve a mix of existing and new public uses, including the existing City Hall, Library, and Park spaces.

Gateway Core
The Gateway Core district would develop strong gateways along Sierra Avenue and serve as a primary gateway to Downtown Fontana from the north and south. This area would contain a mix of existing and new buildings and would support Downtown commercial uses by encouraging the development of residential units near transit and along major corridors.

Multi-Family Core
The Multi-Family Core district would strengthen the opportunity for higher density multifamily development within the Downtown Core. It would support Downtown commercial uses by encouraging the development of residential units within walking distance.

Mixed-Use Core
The Mixed-Use Core district would involve a mix of existing and new commercial and residential uses. Buildings built along major corridors are intended be built to the sidewalk to reinforce the street as a pedestrian-friendly area.

Neighborhood Core
The Neighborhood Core district would be largely composed of single-family homes and would allow the development of extra units. This area would provide a transition between the Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Sierra Core
The Sierra Core district would reinforce Sierra Avenue between Arrow Boulevard and Orange Way as the core of Downtown Fontana. This area would be enhanced with a pedestrian promenade and public plazas, and provide a variety of entertainment, retail, service, and residential uses within existing and new buildings.
1087
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.19 EXHIBIT X.3 PROPOSED DOWNTOWN CORE
1088
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.20 G
Downtown Core
Goals for CreatingUpdated DowntownCore
Districts
The overarching goal for Fontana's Downtown Core is that it become the center of Fontana's community life: the place to take the family for dinner, the place to bring visitors to show them your town, the place for community events, the place for arts and culture, the place for young people to meet each other, the place you go when you just want to find something interesting to do.

Building on the historic Sierra Avenue Downtown core and nearby historic buildings and streetscapes, the plan is to systematically regrow a bigger and better Downtown reinvigorated with new land uses, activities, new businesses, new public landscape, and new private development. The following pages set forth the main goals and key strategies for remaking the Downtown Core, with ideas drawn from Fontana's history, and from lessons learned from other successful downtowns throughout California.

Downtown as the heart of community life - example from Ventura, California 1089
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.21 Goal 1: Livable Public Realm
The public realm is consists of the street network,
parks, and other publicly accessible open spaces along
with public and civic buildings and facilities. The
streets in the Downtown Core Area streets are
intended to become a unified, interconnected network
of safe, comfortable places for people to move about,
run errands, play with children, walk to dinner, and
spend time in the company of their friends and
neighbors. The jewels of the public realm will be the
parks, plazas and other public open spaces, which
along with the streets will be comfortable spaces for
daily life and flexible venues for special community
events.

Goal 2: Buildings that Accommodate a Lively Mix of
Uses
Each existing building and all future buildings should
contribute to Downtown's envisioned character, with
beautiful facades, pedestrian-oriented frontages, warm
lighting, and artistic signage. Architectural design will balance the uniqueness of each building with the
common purpose of defining the outdoor rooms in
which the civic life of Fontana can thrive.

Goal 3: Activity-Rich Downtown
A thriving, growing Downtown must offer a wide range
of commercial and civic amenities that attract more
people, more often, to spend more time in Downtown.

Downtown must be the best place in town to start and
grow a new local business, undertake a new creative
enterprise, or build new and innovative housing that
offers the in-town lifestyle that many existing and future residents are looking for.

Goal 4: User-Friendly District Parking
Parking in the Downtown must be conveniently
located, clearly marked, easy to find, and adequate for Downtown businesses and special events. A "parkonce" system will be implemented, to allow visitors to arrive by automobile, use a single parking space, and
then pursue a variety of activities on foot.

Goal 5: Clear Branding And Wayfinding
An integrated branding, wayfinding and signage
system for the Downtown will help this growing multiuse district successfully compete with suburban shopping centers and entertainment districts.

Public realm includes streets and sidewalks
Mix of uses in a retail core
Beautiful downtown buildings
Finding your way around
1090
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.22 Top Priorities
The big ideas and top priorities of the Downtown
Area Plan include:
• Generate a concentration of commercial,
recreational, educational, and cultural activities
in the Downtown Core – whether in existing
refurbished buildings, existing refurbished
public open spaces, or new buildings – to make
it a compelling destination for Fontana
residents and out of town visitors.
• Systematically improve the existing
streets of the Downtown Core to provide
a more comfortable, walkable, shaded,
wind-buffered environment with
convenient, adequate parking to help
attract customers, visitors, and businesses
to visit more often and spend more time.
• Provide wayfinding signage to make it easy for
visitors to park and explore the Downtown on
foot.
• Provide updated development standards and
design guidelines to help attract and encourage
new investment, and ensure that each
increment of new investment – whether in just
a new awning or sign and coat of paint or a
whole new building – contributes to a unique
and high quality “Downtown Fontana” design
character.

The Conceptual Illustrative Plan, below, highlights
some of the development priorities and
improvements recommended for transformational
change in Downtown Fontana.

New Gateways, wayfinding and signage will
welcome visitors into the Downtown Core.

Downtown will host a lively mix of uses,
beautifulbuildingsandarchitecturalforms.

Streets with ample trees and pedestrian
amenities will provide shade and wind
protection, and enhance the visibility of retail.

Conceptual improvements on portions of Sierra Ave include adding parking lane planters and canopy trees, mid-block crossings, and street furnishings to calm traffic, support businesses, and provide a comfortable pedestrian environment. 1091
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.23 1092
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.24 Goal 1: A Livable Public Realm

STRATEGIES
The Public Realm of a successful downtown is the "outdoor rooms" in which the civic and commercial life of the town occurs, providing valuable addresses for the activities that attract customers. The following strategies are intended to systematically transform the current ragged streetscapes of Downtown Fontana from a "through place" to a "to place" - a destination that will attract new investment and give passers-by a reason to stop, get out, and look around.

Complete streets make all users comfortable people and cars.

Encourage walking around:
> Widen sidewalks as appropriate;
> Buffer pedestrians from moving traffic with
curbside parking, street trees, street lights and
other street furnishings;
> Provide wide but short well-marked crosswalks; and,
> Create walking shortcuts, including new passages
(streets,alleys,paseos)through existing large
blocks.

CalmTraffic:
> Reduce selected travel lane widths to a practical
and safe minimum width to moderate driving
speeds to improve pedestrian safety and reduce
noise levels;
> Set the number of vehicular lanes at a practical
and safe minimum;
> Reduce traffic congestion and manage speeds by
synchronizing traffic signals to allow vehicles
driving at the posted speed to flow smoothly
through the area;
Clearly marked class II bike lanes along a
tree-lined street create more comfortable
environments for cyclists and motorists.
1093
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.25 > Provide more complete street tree canopies and
encourage development of taller mixed-use
buildings to clearly define the public realm - a
proven strategy for increasing driver awareness
and pedestrian safety.

Createasafe,comfortablebicyclingenvironment:
> Provide new bike lanes on selected streets
> Moderated vehicular speeds on Downtown streets
will enable bicycle and vehicular traffic to safely
share lanes.
• Manage on-streetparking:
> Provide curbside parking on all streets to provide
convenient customer parking, provide a safetybuffer for pedestrians, and help calm traffic; > Where the number and/or width of travel lanes can
be reduced without creating new congestion,
reconfigure on-street parking to expand the supply
of customer parking.

Clearly visible crosswalks with shortened
crossing distances enhance pedestrian
safety and calm traffic.

On-street parking, lighting and street trees
create a safe, comfortable pedestrian
environment.

A street is intentionally designed to slow cars down
with reduced travel lane widths, added bike lanes, onstreet parking, landscaping and street trees, clearlymarked crosswalks and intersections.

Above, buildings frame the street to encourage
slower traffic speeds and allow for safer pedestrian
movement.
1094
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.26 Drought resistant plants and trees
contribute to local design and conservation.

Pervious parking pavement and canopy
trees enable stormwater infiltration.

Street trees with tall canopies provide
shade and wind protection for pedestrians,
and maintain visibility of retail frontages.

Downtown Landscape
• Buildthe urbantree canopy
Large canopy trees do more than any other single
strategy to make a comfortable outdoor environment
in a windy desert climate. Harsh sun and wind
conditions much of the year, discourage walking and
outdoor dining or recreation. The early settlers of
Fontana understood this challenge and responded by
planting steady rows of large trees to cut the wind, and large canopy trees in parks around civic buildings to
provide shade for community activities.

Although most of that original landscape is gone, a few Downtown neighborhood streets have retained their
historic canopy of large shade trees (Nuevo Street north of Seville is a good example). Recent tree plantings in the Downtown have been primarily "ornamental" and/ or
"low maintenance" in nature and do not contribute to the comfort and livability of the public realm to make it a place where many people would choose to spend their
time. Key elements of the new tree canopy strategy
include:
> Plant canopy trees between the sidewalk and traffic
on all streets, to add shade and spatial enclosure,
provide a buffer from wind and traffic.
> In the retail core to select and maintain trees
to provide good visibility for shopfronts and
signage.
> Large canopy trees in the public open spaces of
Downtown should provide shade and wind
protection to make them comfortable for a wide
range of outdoor activities.
> Employ native and adaptive plant species to
reduce irrigation and maintenance without
sacrificing appearance.
• A Climate CalibratedLandscape
A drought tolerant and resilient urban landscape
that encourages and supports outdoor activity.
> Shade trees are worth the water required to establish and maintain them. Other landscape and hardscape
should emphasize simple concrete sidewalks,
pervious accent pavement, and drought tolerant
native and adaptive plants rather than shrubs, turn
or thirsty groundcovers.
1095
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.27 > Regionally adaptive accent plantings include aloes,
succulents, tall grasses and other plants that
require little water and no pruning.
> Stormwater infiltration should be incorporated
into on-street parking areas and off-street lots,
parkway strips and planters. This will provide
stormwater infiltration in support of
groundwater recharge and the growth and
health of street trees.

Street Furnishings
• AWell-Furnished PublicRealm
Complete the Downtown landscape with the
"hardware" of comfortable, livable places: street
furniture, street lighting, bicycle parking, and bus
stops. Specific elements include:
> Street lights that provide a safe and pleasant quantity and quality of light appropriate to each district,
street, and space:
 LED lamps in the warm white spectrum,
with down-directed luminaries reduce
energy consumption, operating cost, and
glare.
 Street lights should be calibrated to the size and
function of the street, emphasizing human scale
and the pedestrian rather than just floodlighting
the roadway.
 Light poles and light levels along
neighborhood streets should be lower than
along the commercial corridors, with pools of
light at each fixture and at street intersections
and darker areas between.
> Seating areas should distributed throughout
Downtown to provide comfortable places for
visitors to catch their breath and extend their visit;
> Parklets can "widen the sidewalk" and to
provide additional space for outdoor dining.
> Movable tables and chairs in the retail/restaurant
core, provide a high level of flexibility to the use
of public spaces.
> Secure bike parking in convenient location along
retail streets, at corner plazas and paseos, and at
public parking lots will help bring customers who
do not add to traffic congestion and vehicle parking
demand.

Coordinated street lights and frontages
create a comfortable and safe setting
Street furniture
Parklets with flexible seating
Organized bike parking incorporated into
sidewalks within a downtown retail district
1096
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.28 Plaza with seating and event space
Temporary street festival and regular events may
be held on underutilized lots.

Open SpaceNetwork
• An Interconnected Network of
"Outdoor Rooms"
Evolve Downtown's streets, alleys, paseos,
parks, plazas, and other open spaces into an
interconnected network of "outdoor rooms"
lined with beautiful buildings with active
frontages to:
> Enhance the appearance and economic
value of the Downtown;
> Support a healthy in-town lifestyle
downtown the emphasizes active
transportation;
> Enhance public safety by providing
more “eyes on the street;" and,
> Emphasize the connection between the
Downtown and Fontana's beautiful natural
setting, mountain views and natural
resources.
• Use vacant and underutilized
spaces as temporary event or
open spaces.

Example of a side dining court created from an
open lot adjacent to mixed-use retail
1097
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.29 • Enhance streets to double as venues for
street festivals and community events. The
connected network of Downtown streets enables
segments to be closed for special community
events, and their design should anticipate and
support such flexible use:
> Side streets and cross streets in particular may
be simpler to close on a regular basis than
Sierra;
A weekend farmers market along a city
street
A passageway between retail buildings
connects pedestrians to convenient parking.

Conceptual illustration for activating alleys, paseos, and midblock crossings in the Downtown Core.

Alleys and paseos in Pasadena, California
show how mid-block passageways can be
become active places with potential for new
addresses and businesses.

NUEVO
SIERRA

WHEELER
Mid-block pedestrian
connection
NOTE: The spaces indicated above
are for conceptual purposed only.
1098
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.30 Sierra Pedestrian Plaza
Proposed Improvements (Sierra Ave, Nuevo Ave & Wheeler Ave) Context & Strategy
Reconfigure Sierra Ave, Nuevo Ave
and Wheeler Ave north of Orange Ave
and south of Arrow Blvd: One goal of
the Downtown is to create an attractive
destination for Fontana. To facilitate
this, a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Ave
north of Orange Way and south of
Arrow Blvd is planned. The plaza will
act as a centerpiece of the Downtown
with attractive architecture and
attractive pedestrian amenities:

An overhead look at a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Ave
Specific recommendations include
• Creating a pedestrian plaza north of Orange
Way and south of Arrow Blvd and redirect
automobile traffic to Wheeler Ave and
Nuevo Ave.
• Include pedestrian amenities such as
outdoor furniture, ample landscaping,
shade and vast walking paths.
• Create multi-modal access to the plaza by
implementing bike lanes, pedestrian
connections and encouraging “alternative”
transportation modes that may include,
shared vehicle options, rollerblading electric
bikes and scooters.
• Create attractive and active spaces through
emphasis of arts. This includes using land
markers such as monuments and gateway
signs. Active public spaces include modern
and interactive art.
• Create a local and regional destination by
creating an active public space as described
above with attractive commercial
development such as restaurants,
amusement spaces (arcades and gaming),
antique shops and art studios.

A pedestrian plaza with amenities.

Residents taking photos with the monuments.
1099
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.31 Transformation
The following actions are recommended to transform
and improve the appearance and performance of
Sierra Avenue within the Downtown Core:
• Add broad-canopy street trees: Adding
broad- canopy trees within the curb-side
parking lanes to visually narrow the street,
and help shelter pedestrians from the sun,
wind and traffic. Specific recommendations
include:
i. Replace existing palms and shrubs in
center median with broad canopy trees
and low water use native and adaptive
plantings.
ii. Remove the Queen Palms from sidewalk
planters - maintaining the taller Mexican
Fan Palms - and fill in the sidewalk to
provide additional sidewalk space for
furniture and café dining.
iii. Add new parking-lane planters with
broad- canopy trees every two parking
spaces to visually narrow the street, calm
traffic, and provide shade for the
sidewalk and parked cars.
• Provide comfortable street furniture:

Including benches, trash receptacles and
bicycle parking:
• Provide improved street lighting: Whether
through replacement of fixtures or installing
new lights of LEDs, improve the quantity and
quality of nighttime lighting.
• Allow parklets: Because the sidewalks on
Sierra are not very wide for a downtown,
businesses may elect to give up a curbside
parking space in front of their shop in
exchange for a new parklet that expands
sidewalk space for outdoor dining.

Parking-lane-planters provide shade and
wind protection for the sidewalk and parked
cars, and free up additional sidewalk space
for sidewalk dining and street furnishings.

Parklets provide new "temporary" space to
the sidewalk for outdoor dining, or street
furnishings.

Street Furniture - including benches,
bicycle parking, trash receptacles, bus
shelters - contribute to a safe, comfortable
pedestrian (and retail) environment.
1100
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.32 A live-work building with ground-floor retail
creates transitional frontage between a
downtown and traditional neighborhood
Goal 2: Buildings Shape the PublicRealm

STRATEGIES FOR PLACE-MAKING
The "outdoor rooms" of the Downtown are defined and lined by the active, attractive facades of its buildings, full of retail shops, restaurants, art galleries, and civic uses. This section focuses on strategies and techniques for shaping new investment in Downtown properties to make Downtown a great, unique place to do business, invest money, and spend time.

Building Patterns
• Buildings engage the street. All new
buildings in the Downtown, including
commercial and mixed-use buildings, should
face the streetwithmainentrances, shopfronts,
andwindowsoverlookingthe street.
• Buildings form a steady street wall. Most
downtown streets should be defined by a
consistent street wall of buildings built at
Downtown buildings engaging and framing the street
or near the frontage line, one to five
stories in height, with commercial
shopfronts or other active uses lining the
ground floor.
• Varied massing. While built in a steady
row in plan, buildings are expected to
vary in height and profile, with varied
architecture and restrained, town-scale
massing.
• Varied architecture. Creativity
should be encouraged; mixing
traditional and contemporary
architectural styles that complement
Fontana's historic building stock.

Varied massing and architecture in a downtown
A consistent street wall created by adjacent buildings
1101
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.33 Building Frontages
• Human scale frontages. The design
of building frontages is critical to
shaping the public realm, welcoming
pedestrians to each building, and
providing an attractive and comfortable
"pedestrian seam" stitching private
buildings to public streets. Downtown
Frontages include:
> Commercial frontages provide clear
entrances with large, transparent,
shaded shopfront windows, ample
lighting, and convenient parking to
display merchandise and welcome
customers.
> Residential frontages include stoops,
porches, terraces, yards, dooryards and
entry courts that welcome visitors while
also providing a degree of frontages
provide additional privacy to groundfloor residential units without blocking the "eyes on the street" that each
dwelling provides to keep the street a
safe and comfortable environment.
> Transitional/flexible frontages —
such as dooryards within shallow
frontage setbacks — can provide "user
adaptable" spaces in which landscape
can provide enough privacy ground
floor housing or hardscape can support
a small ground floor business.
> Non-street frontages — such as
garden courts, forecourts, side courts —
provide additional internal frontage
and semi- private spaces. Such nonstreet frontages may be valuable space for dining, gathering or other uses
related to a given site.

Commercial frontages with floor-to-ceiling windows,
awnings, and comfortable landscaping welcome customers.

Raised stoops create welcoming frontages and maintain
privacy for downtown residents.

A sidecourt provides additional non-street frontage on a site, allowing for new uses.
1102
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.34 Facade Improvements and Signage
Outdated buildings and shopfronts can be transformed
with relatively simple facade improvements, including:
• Windows that are transparent to give
pedestrians a view into the shop, restaurant or
art gallery;
• Awnings, canopies, galleries or arcades that
provide shade and rain protection, and cut the
glare on shopfront windows so customers can
see in;
• Signage expressing the personality of the business
and scaled for the pedestrian visibility.
• Lighting that highlights merchandise and signage,
and casts light onto adjacent sidewalks;
• New smooth stucco and new paint - or
other appropriate refinishing - to refresh
the facade.

Adaptive reuse
Many Downtown buildings which are underutilized or
their original use is obsolete. Such buildings are ideal opportunities for adaptive reuse, warehouses can
become retail and restaurant buildings with
modifications.

Transparent, well-lit commercial facade
Commercial shopfronts that engage the
street.

Originalbuildingandfacade Existing condition Sample restoration, Santa Barbara, CA Focus on Facades - Downtown Fontana was originally home to a rich collection of buildings with engaging facades. Below is an example of how such facades may be simply redesigned and restored. 1103
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.35 Example of sidewalk signs that engage the pedestrian
in a walkable downtown core setting.

Projecting signs area scaled and often use high
contrast to be legible from the sidewalk and from afar.

Wall and window signs may be integrated into
downtown shopfronts on display windows, doors or
within the transom area (as shown).

Example of projecting letters mounted on a shopfront
to enhance architectural archway and arcade.
1104
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.36 Downtown infill can come in a variety of forms and intensities, based on market demand
Infill Development
As Downtown begins to evolve
into an activity and amenity rich
destination, demand for quality
office, retail, and residential
space will begin to overtake the
existing building stock. There
are numerous vacant and
underutilized parcels
downtown that could be
opportunity sites for infill
development, which can come
in a variety of forms:

Corner mixed-use buildings with open pedestrianoriented frontages Infill: Within the Downtown, there are
several locations—especially west of
Sierra—with a number of adjacent parcels
that are largely underutilized. Many of
these lots consists of older commercial
buildings or unused parking lots. In
these instances—and as properties
turnover— the City will explore
opportunities for property owners to
consider new infill building types that
contribute to the community's vision for a
revitalized Downtown.
1105
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.37 Example of block consolidation with an infill
development of a new hotel, including the adaptive
re-use of an existing warehouse.
• Mixed-use buildings that bring
residents into Downtown. Traditional
mixed-use buildings, with
commercial/retail ground floors and
housing on upper floors, will provide
housing options not yet available in
Fontana can attract new residents who
want a downtown urban lifestyle.
• New housing options to expand the
market. New housing options can be
offered to property owners and
developers, allowing them to provide a
range of for-sale, rental,
market-rate, higher density, affordable and
live-work units that appeal to a broad range
of household sizes, ages, income levels and
life stages to respond to and expand current
and future market demand.

Larger-scale infill such as a new hotel could
potentially infill the corner of Juniper and Arrow and
provide a new hospitality sector toDowntown.

A live-work building with ground-floor retail creates
transitional frontage between a downtown and
traditional neighborhood
Sample infill rowhouses provide attached singlefamily housing JUNIPER Attached single-family housing on a
shared courtyard
1106
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.38 Coordinating Improvements
At the outset of the ambitious enterprise of rebuilding Downtown Fontana, it will be critically important that each new private sector investment of time and money be aimed at improvements that are consistent with the vision for Downtown and that provide good value for the investment. The following strategies are recommended.

Simple facade, landscaping and lighting
improvements to existing buildings can
greatly help catalyze redevelopment.

Generating activity, not just buildings, is one
key to rejuvenating a downtown - activities
can include art walks, food truck courts, and
regular public events.

1. Activity First
Many downtown revitalization efforts focus first on
attracting developers to construct new buildings. That
will be an important aspect of the overall improvement
of Downtown Fontana, but buildings are just
containers for interesting activities. New downtown
zoning will reduce the regulatory hurdles to starting or expanding a business in and existing building or
constructing a new building. If businesses and the
customer base succeeds and grows, the financing
required for more ambitious capital improvements will
follow. Additionally, efforts to revitalize the
Downtown include the renovation of Center Stage to
the new Stage Red, which will create a major attraction that will activate the Civic Core.
1107
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.39

2.Prioritize Frontages
Frontages are the interface between the Downtown’s
public realm and its businesses, the “seam” between the street and the building where people walk, window
shop, and decide where to spend their time and money.

Accordingly, building frontages – including the building facade, display windows, signage, lighting, and in some cases sidewalk dining furniture – are a top priority for reinvestment. The City will provide incentives and
assistance to the extent possible to help business owners and property owners develop and implement sharp new
frontage designs.

3. Focus
Clustering near-term improvements in one area will
clearly signal a transformation of the place.

4.Be Opportunistic and Flexible
Notwithstanding the recommendation for focusing
near- term efforts, if a proposal to start a great new
business or construct a beautiful building that
matches the vision for the Downtown shows up
suddenly in an unexpected location, the City should
consider it.

5. Work Together
Perhaps the most important piece, is that Downtown
businesses and property owners, the City of Fontana,
and all others with a love for Downtown, work
together creatively, resourcefully and proactively to
kick-start the desired transformation.

Prioritize pedestrian-scaled frontages that
engage the sidewalk and public realm.

Focus development and investment in
strategic locations to create synergistic
uses and redevelopment.

Be flexible to property owners and
developers whose vision matches that of
the Downtown Area Plan.
1108
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.40 Goal 3: An Activity-Rich Downtown

STRATEGIES
The overarching goal for Downtown Fontana is that over time it become a place filled with a broad spectrum of engaging commercial, civic, cultural and recreational activities that appeal to Residents and visitors of all ages, incomes and ethnic backgrounds, throughout the day and into the evening, throughout the week and on weekends and holidays. All of the important urban design, transportation and management recommendations in this plan are simply aimed at that result.

1. All types of activities:Downtown
has historically been Fontana’s primary
center for civic life, family recreation,
education, employment, cultural activities,
and local commerce, and through the
Fontana Forward process the strong desire
for Downtown to regain that status
emerged over and over. By offering
activities of many types the Downtown
will attract new visitors and regular
customers more often, and sustain their
interest longer.

2. All types of customers: A central strategy of
any successful destination - whether a shopping mall,
resort, or downtown - is to broaden the customer base
by offering a diverse array of choices targeted to
different customer types. Specific customer types that
were mentioned repeatedly in Fontana Forward
workshops included families, young people, senior
citizens, and visitors to the Auto Club Speedway and
Kaiser Medical Center and other nearby destinations.

The recommended mix of indoor andoutdoordining
choices,unique localretail shops, indoor and outdoor
family entertainment, arts and cultural offerings, and
regularly scheduled special events are intended to
appeal to all these customer types.

Activities should be available throughout
the day and night.
1109
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.41 into the evening. A growing residential population
in surrounding neighborhoods and within the
downtown will be an important factor in giving
Downtown a “live- in” feel that feels safer and more
comfortable that a commercial-only district.

4. Indoor & Outdoor Many great downtowns
thrive in spite of inclement weather much of the
year, by generating enclosure and shelter for
their inhabitants through the design of public
streetscapes and private buildings. Although
Fontana’s climate can be quite hot in the
summer, at times chilly in the winter, and windy
much of the year, these are factors quite easily
mitigated by the types of spatial enclosure,
shading and wind-breaking envisioned and
recommended by this Plan. The general lack of
rainfall and long warm evenings can be
leveraged to make the sort of comfortable
indoor/outdoor environment that has made
many of California’s desert cities (Palm Springs
and Palm Desert in particular) into regional and
even international visitor destinations. Fontana
can do this in its own, unique way.

Sidewalks should support outdoor dining
and other activities where appropriate.

5.Constantly evolving: The most
successful downtowns offer a changing
menu of choices for visitors, to keep regulars
coming back and new customers showing
up. The natural evolution of local businesses
responding to market forces provides such
variety, as do changing shows in the visual
and performing arts and menu rotations by
local restaurants. Special events provide a
great opportunity for bringing new activities
to the Downtown, some of which may spin
off permanent businesses while others draw
weekly, monthly or seasonal visitors who
are then exposed to the other permanent
offerings. A cooperative management and
promotional organization can provide a key
role in organizing and promoting the
changing and expanding activities of
Downtown Fontana.

Sunset on Sierra 2016 brought residents and visitors
to explore Downtown and experience conceptual
improvements to streetscape and core District.

Indoor/outdoor spaces woven into streetscapes and
buildings provide added value to the Downtown.
1110
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.42 "Restaurant Row"
Proposed Steps to Creating a Downtown Restaurant District Restaurants activate the public realm by creating social atmosphere, attracting pedestrian traffic to retail areas.

Context
A number of residents have expressed that having more dining options in the Downtown should be a top priority for attracting more visitors. Out of that suggestion came the vision of creating a "Restaurant Row" - a concentration of local restaurants located in one location downtown that could create a significant new dining destination, for the area.

This food hub could start out informally as specific food "events" which could be combined with other events such as outdoor cinema, a car show, or a street festival like Sunset on Sierra or Night Market, to begin to create energy and establish this area as a food & entertainment district. Over time, this area could evolve to attract permanent restaurants from local entrepreneurs offering a variety of price points and food types, helping transform Downtown into an "18-hour-per-day" destination. 1111
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.43 Strategies&Actions
Achieving this vision will require a concentrated and
coordinated effort, including:
• Start Small: The City has reinitiated the
Spring Street Night Market, The City could
time a Market Night in conjunction with other
festivals or events, such as the Sunset on Sierra
Avenue festival, or outdoor cinema nights.
• Public Realm Improvements: Focus nearterm public realm improvements on this area, including; street trees and other shade elements,
street furniture, attractive landscaping, and clean
lighting. An improved and maintained public
realm will attract private investors to open new
businesses.
• Parking Holiday: As additional parking on city
streets is, consider temporarily waiving or heavily
reducing on site parking requirements for new
food establishments in this area to ease the initial
cost of starting.
• Encourage Outdoor Dining: Allow vacant
lots, paseos, and public sidewalks to be used for
outdoor dining. Allow parklets in public rights-ofway. • Farm to Fork: Promote relationships between
farmers and local restaurants. Allow and
supporting urban farming ventures that could
utilize vacant and underutilized downtown
parcels (including the PE Trail Park), for truly
local food experiences.
• Spread the word: Establish a clear brand for
Restaurant Row, and market it regionally to
attract new customers to Downtown.

Food Truck night in a temporarily closed
parking lot
Sidewalk dining is an effective way to
enliven a street.

Restaurants activate the public realm by
creating vibe and attract pedestrian traffic
to retail areas.

Urban agriculture can contribute to “Farm
to Fork” strategies in a downtown setting.
1112
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.44 "Sunset Theater"
Strategies for transforming underutilized spaces Downtown Creative design solutions can transform "left-over" / underutilized spaces, such as alleys and parking lots, into extremely valuable multi-functional spaces, such as One Colorado, in Old Town Pasadena.

Context
There are currently a number of largely underutilized
"open-spaces" in the downtown, whether a vacant lot or
parking lot, that with some creativity and minor
improvements, could be transformed into multi-functional spaces that could make positive contributions to the urban fabric and activity of the Downtown.

A good example, and near-term opportunity, is the
largely underutilized City-owned parking lot at the
corner of Nuevo Ave and Arrow Blvd. Recommended
improvements on both streets could see this area change dramatically in the future, with an influx of streetscape improvements and new parking. Additionally, this lot is framed interestingly on two sides by relatively "blank" walls of adjacent buildings, already enclosing this space.

The AT&T building in particular, has a "tall" portion in the middle, that would be an ideal face to project
movies onto, and with some small improvements to
the street fronting perimeter of this parking lot, it could double-function an attractively enclosed parking lot,
and as a great outdoor plaza in the heart of the
downtown, that if programmed well, could become a
regional attraction.

Existing parking lot condition at the
corner of Sierra and Arrow, and back of
AT&T
1113
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.45 Strategies&Actions
Achieving this vision will require a concentrated and
coordinated effort, including:
• Start Small; Start Soon: The City could
partner with a local organization (such as the
Center Theatre) to host a Summer Cinema
series.
• Combine Efforts: Coordinate programming
with other downtown events, such as Food
nights (See "Restaurant Row" on pg. 42),
Farmers Markets, and Sunset On Sierra, to name
a few.
• Spread the Word: Establish a brand (i.e. "Sunset
Theater") for the event, and market it locally and
regionally, to help grow its popularity and
reinforce downtown as an active entertainment
district.
• Improve the Space: Whether immediately or
over time, the City could make simple
improvements to the space (see illustration
below), that could transform this simple
parking lot into a multi- functional public plaza
in the heart of the downtown. In the short term,
the City could work with AT&T to make very
simple improvements to the back of the
building -- as simple as re-painting an
unobstructed white rectangle on the back wall --
to improve the projection quality of the movies.

The City could partner with a local
organization like Center Theater, to host a
summer outdoor cinema series.

Combine efforts with other programmed
activities downtown such as food truck
nights, Sunset on Sierra, etc.
1114
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.46 Civic Park District
Strategies for Activating PET Linear Park
Context
Activate and utilize the Pacific Electric Trail
(PET) park: The Pacific Electric Trail Park is
an amazing amenity/opportunity for
downtown Fontana. The Park was previously
landscaped with a series of linear "mounds"
of earth/sod and groves of citrus trees, the
park has been vastly underutilized, save
Public Works maintenance. With a series
of small, but well-coordinate
interventions, (including removing some
or all of the earth mounds and citrus
trees), this linear park could be
transformed into an organized series of
public spaces, that contribute to the
economic and overall success of the
downtown.

Example of public art on a civic green
3 1115
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.47 Strategies &Actions
Recommendations for kickstarting the evolution of this
important part of the downtown include:
• Re-Align And activate the Pacific Electric
Trail: Presently, as it goes through downtown,
the PE Trail runs along the back walls/fences of
vacant/ underutilized light-industrial uses along
Spring Street, and is perceived to feel unsafe due
to a lack of "eyes on the (trail)". In some cases—
if/when new development comes along Spring
Street it could provide frontage onto the park,
which could be a beneficial location for a trail,
particularly if new development comes in the
form of restaurants that could have outdoor
patios that open out onto the trail. However, in
other stretches, it may be preferable for the
alignment of the trail to shift to along the edge of
Seville—particularly as it comes to
the intersections of Juniper and
Sierra— so that users of the trail can
easily cross those streets via the
existing crosswalks.

PE Trail – Existing Condition

Illustration showing the realignment of the PET to the north edge of the park along the reconfigured "parking edge" of Seville Ave. Improvements to the PET Park proper could accommodate a variety of new activities including outdoor recreation, urban agriculture, etc. (Drawing is conceptual) SIERRA
Re-aligned PE Trail as it approaches Sierra Ave
(Drawing is conceptual)
1116
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.48 The PE Trail can be activated with a variety of recreation amenities.

Urban Gardens
Temporary Street Tree Nursery
• Active outdoor recreation: One strategy for activating the park would be to provide facilities and amenities
for outdoor recreation. The City could install, (and/or allow another organization to install
/ manage) a variety of facilities, including small soccer fields, sand volleyball or tennis courts, lawn bowling, horseshoe pits, etc. In some cases, these facilities could be installed in conjunction with of new development
along the north side of the PET Park on Seville. For
example, a new bar or restaurant could install a sand
volleyball court or horseshoe pits as an amenity for its patrons.
• Urban agriculture: The City could designate some
portion(s) of the park where a range of urban garden/
agricultural uses could be allowed. Some examples could include:
> Urban gardens to support a localized "Restaurant
Row": garden "plats" could be designated to
individual restaurants to grow produce they could
serve to patrons.
> Temporary street tree nursery: In support of the effort to restore the urban tree canopy on a
number Fontana's downtown Streets, a portion of the
PET Park could be used on a near-term basis to grow
/ mature the trees that could later be transplanted as
street trees, at a fraction of the cost of buying more
mature street trees at the time of streetscape
reconstruction.
1117
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.49 Goal 4: Park-Once District

STRATEGIES
An adequate and easy to use supply of customer, visitor and employee parking will be critical to growing existing and new Downtown businesses. The following "park once" strategy is recommended to cost effectively meet parking demand, encourage customers to explore the Downtown on foot, and unburden individual property and business owners from providing their own parking.

A shared, managed parking supply.

In collaboration with Downtown businesses, residents and property owners, the City will take charge of managing the shared parking supply over time, to ensure an adequate
downtown parking supply that balances the needs of
visitors/customers and local residents. This includes:
• Implement a "park-once" strategy. A Park Once
strategy weaves together convenient, attractive, and
easy-to-find parking facilities into the Downtown. It
provides the triple-benefit of reducing “internal
traffic” by encouraging motorists to park their cars
once for multiple destinations and organizing and
managing parking to specific user-groups (residents,
visitors, shoppers, employees, etc.), and getting
customersoutoftheircares and shopping on foot.
• Provide way finding to parking areas. A perceived
lack of parking downtown, discourages many people
from shopping Downtown, despite the actual large
number of available on- and off-street spaces. A simple, clear, and attractive system of wayfinding is needed to help customers locate available parking.
• Quality, flexible design of parking areas. Parking lots, by nature are designed with efficiently in mind, trying to maximize the amount of spaces they can supply, however, this does not mean that they should be exclusively designed for cars. These large open spaces can be multi-functional, if designed and detailed creatively, and accommodate a flexible range of activities, such as community festivals, markets, and even outdoor movies.
• Improve on-street parking. The wide streets of the
Downtown represent underutilized public property. On many streets, simple restriping of parking, and on specific streets, more elaborate reconfigurations, can add approximately 300 net new parking spaces to the downtown supply, within existing rights of way.

A well-managed public realm that
prioritizes pedestrians with ample parking,
signage, furnishings, and design elements.
1118
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.50 User-friendly parking strategies in the Downtown range from improving wayfinding, allowing flexible uses of existing parking areas, restriping and reconfiguring on-street spaces increasing access and usability of existing public lots, identifying shared parking opportunities, and determining future structure locations. (Drawing is conceptual)
• Identify potential shared / multi-use parking
areas. Underutilized and single-use parking lots
should be managed as shared public parking (or for
other uses) afterregular hours of use.
• Regulation & Enforcement: Implement time
limitations for prime parking spaces on
downtown streets, and issue overnight permits for
resident parking on neighborhood streets,
ticketing those who do not comply.
• Long-Term Parking Solutions:Withthegoal
and expectation of continued and long-term
success Downtown, parking demand will grow
over time. In the longer term, this could suggest
the demand for structured parking.
"Ramblas" parking in a center median
allows a City to recycle portions of wide
right-of-ways to be used for two-way
diagonal parking or optional event space,
while contributing to traffic-calming.

JUNIPER
NUEVO
SIERRA

WHEELER

WHEELER
1119
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.51 Goal 5: Clear Branding And Wayfinding

STRATEGIES
Every recommendation in this Plan is related to "branding" the Downtown - positioning it as a one-of-a-kind, authentic destination. The "brand": Downtown Fontana will be its perceived identity to visitors based on its appearance, amenities, and activities. As new improvements, activity and energy starts to transform Downtown, an important unifying programmatic "layer" to help organize, "package", and advertise this success will be a clear branding and wayfinding system.

Establish a Downtown Branding &
Wayfinding System.

Whether individuals arrive in the Downtown by foot,
car, bicycle and public transit, they should: 1) know
that they have arrived to a real place, and 2) be able to navigate themselves around with relative ease. This
requires a clear and coordinated system of branding,
signage, and design elements, including:
• Develop Identity & Branding Graphics. Many great
Historic Route 66 signage directing visitors
to Downtown Fontana, Circa 1929.

Fontana's existing wayfinding program
should evolve as more destinations arrive
downtown.

Example of downtown directory and
wayfinding signage.
downtowns and districts develop specific branding
graphics and logos that can reinforce the
placemaking of a district, and can be used for district marketing. These graphics can be widely used,
incorporated in everything from street furniture to
specific signage elements.
• Market the Downtown Regionally. Creative
Downtown marketing campaigns can allow merchants
and restaurateurs to compete on an equal footing
with shopping centers andotherregional attractions.
• District Maintenance. A well-organized program
of public realm maintenance and management will
ensure that Downtown remains a clean, attractive
place to shop, visit, and do business.
• EvolvetheDowntownWayfindingProgram.As
new "destinations" arrive Downtown, the Downtown
Wayfinding Program will need to evolve. An
immediate need is to provide clear wayfinding to
shared parking lots. Wherever possible, wayfinding
elements should incorporate Downtown identity
graphics to reinforce the district.
• Encourage Variety, Creativity, and Coordination.

There are numerous tools, strategies, and techniques
for branding, marketing, and wayfinding that can be
utilized in the downtown. What is most important is
that efforts are coordinated reinforce the Downtown
brand.
1120
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.52 District branding as banners installed on lightposts,
and as placards installed into the sidewalk.

District logo incorporated into street furnishings to
reinforce the branding of the district.

An information kiosk for downtown Baton Rouge. Downtown Wayfinding printed on the sidewalksin Downtown Scottsdale, AZ
Examples of District Gateway Signage Elements
1121
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.53 Getting Started: Downtown Core
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Code Update/Pink Zone: The City will prepare, adopt and implement updated zoning and design guidance for the
Downtown. This will include permit process streamlining and near-term reduction in “red tape” required to
establish or expand a business that contributes to the
reanimation of the Downtown Core as a lively
destination.

City

2. Parking/Wayfinding Signage: The City will prepare a
design for a system of branding and wayfinding signage
for the Downtown. The emphasis of this program will be
to help visitors find parking and their destinations, while build a visual identity for the Downtown as a unified
destination. This program will build on the existing Civic Center Branding program.

City

3. Management And Maintenance: The Downtown Manager
will efficiently coordinate and oversee downtown projects and address needs overtime. The Downtown Manager
will maintain a relationship between the business
owners and Chamber of Commerce, as well as residents
and visitors, with the goal of providing seamless upkeep and improvements of the streets and public realm.

City

4. Spring and Seville Street Improvements: The City will fund, design and construct streetscape improvements
to Spring Street and Seville Street between Sierra
Avenue and Juniper Avenue. Improvements will focus on
restriping to add parking and improving sidewalks and
street tree plantings. Phasing may be dictated by
funding constraints, and if so should start at Sierra and move west as funds are available.

City Completed
1122
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.54 ACTION WHO DOES IT?

5. Pacific Electric Trail Improvements: The City will work with San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG) to
redesign the Pacific Electric Trail between Juniper Avenue and the police department roundabout. Recommended
elements include but are not limited to community
gardens, urban agriculture related to new restaurants,
shady park areas for passive recreation, and active
recreation facilities such as beach volleyball, fitness courses, or bocce ball and shuffleboard.

City/County

6. Pedestrian Plaza: The City will create a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Avenue to create a local and regional
destination. Recommended features include outdoor
dining, bike planes, public activities, art and attractive landscaping. Architecture along the plaza should be
attractive and designed to engage with the public space with enhanced entries and amenities.

City
Note: "Owners" refers, collectively, to business owners and property owners.

All actions are anticipated to include collaboration/cooperation between the City, owners, and other interested organizations and individuals. 1123
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.55 H
Gateway Corridors
Bringing People Into The Downtown
Foothill Boulevard and Sierra Avenue
are the primary Corridors to
Downtown Fontana, carrying large
volumes of vehicular traffic through
and into the Downtown Core. This
plan adopts the General Plan's "Livable
Corridors Strategy" envisioning future
street improvements and infill
development along Foothill and
Sierra—including new, high-quality
retail and commercial services, offices
and employment, and housing of
various types mixed together—to
provide walkable, human-scale
patterns that further connect the
downtown to adjoining
neighborhoods.

In order for this transformation to
occur, it will be necessary to redesign
and calm segments of Foothill and
Sierra to create attractive streetscapes
that accommodate a variety of uses
and activities, and a mix of
pedestrians, bicycles, cars and public
transit within the Downtown area.

This strategy is organized into the
following high-level goals:

Brand Boulevard in Glendale, California, functions as a Livable Corridor with a diverse mix of uses, intensities and streetscape elements that contribute to an attractive and safe public realm.

JUNIPER
MANGO
EXHIBIT X.6 DOWNTOWN CORRIDORS

FOOTHILL
FOOTHILL / ROUTE 66

CORRIDOR
ARROW

DOWNTOWN
CORE

MERRILL
SOUTH
SIERRA

CORRIDOR
Above shows Foothill Boulevard/Route 66 Corridor, and
Sierra Avenue. Sierra is the spine of Downtown and the
primary corridor for Chaffey College. The design and
function of both Foothill and Sierra are critical to funneling visitors into the heart of Downtown.
1124
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.56 Goal 1: Foothill Blvd Gateway Leveraging its
high traffic volume as commercial asset, the
segments of Foothill Boulevard approaching
Sierra Avenue in either direction will be
transformed into highly-visible gateways
designed to "funnel" (or "direct") visitors
and into the Downtown Core. Using skillful
urban design and placemaking strategies, and
harkening back to some of the original Route
66 design characteristics, its outdated
commercial highway design and
development patterns of this important node
can be transformed to create a significant
north gateway to Downtown.

Goal 2: South Sierra Ave Gateway From I10 to Metrolink, south Sierra Avenue is the primary Corridor into Downtown. The
transformation of this corridor over time,
including new mixed-use development,
streetscape improvements, and branding
& wayfinding signage along Sierra—
growing in intensity and formality as one
approaches downtown -- will intuitively
"funnel" visitors into the center of Fontana,
with the potential for formal gateway
elements at Santa Fe Park announcing
arrival to the Downtown proper.

Goal 3: Organized Corridor Infill The main
corridors in and around Downtown,
represent some of the biggest opportunities
for significant infill of commercial, mixeduse, and housing of various forms and intensities close to the Downtown Core.

Key to the success of this anticipated infill
in support of the Downtown Core, is that it
be well organized and coordinated, so that
each new "project" contribute to the overall
walkable network of blocks, streets and
open spaces, and that it be attractively
designed to contribute to the look, feel, and
character of the Downtown.

Prominent corner buildings should enhance and
announce the arrival into the Downtown Core.

Corridor streetscape improvements will support new
mixed-use developments, access and wayfinding, and
safety for visitors in the Downtown.

Corridor infill of various types and mixed uses should
contribute to a walkable network of blocks and spaces.
1125
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.57 Goal 1: Foothill Blvd Gateway

STRATEGIES
Conceptual Illustration of Foothill Blvd approaching Sierra Ave, including streetscape/landscape improvements, corner gateway buildings, and the idea of future frontage lanes to support corridor-fronting infill development.

Foothill Blvd and Sierra Ave are high-volume, major east/west and north/south cross-town (and regional) corridors that intersect just north of the Downtown Core, with future regionalserving bus transit anticipated along Foothill in near future. With thoughtful planning, quality infill development, attractive public realm improvements, and clear branding and wayfinding signage, this highly-visible node has the potential to transform over time into a significant Gateway into Downtown, a strategy vital to its long-term economic success.

Strategies for catalyzing this transformation include:
• Streetscape improvements, including comfortable sidewalks, enhanced lighting, landscaping and street furnishings that better serve pedestrians, cyclists, bus and public transit users, in addition to existing motorists.
• Quality commercial and residential infill, generally increasing in intensity as it approaches Foothill/Sierra. New buildings should be located close to the street with direct access provided from the sidewalk, and parking typically located behind the buildings to create a more urban environment at this node than typically experienced along the corridor. • Gateway branding and wayfinding
elements that market and direct
travelers to Downtown.
• New connections across Foothill
(and Sierra) that provide
neighborhoods parallel to and
north of the Foothill corridor with
more, and improved linkages to the
Downtown Core.

The diagram to the left shows the intersection
of Sierra and Foothill. Infill and Improvements
increase in intensity as one approaches the
intersection of Foothill & Sierra, signaling
arrival into an urban place. Added gateway
branding and wayfinding signage will direct
traffic toward the Downtown Core. (Drawing is
conceptual)
NUEVO
SIERRA
1126
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.58 Actions
Specific actions in support of this transformation include:
• Maintain Four lanes on foothill: Design and
implement complete streets improvements that
maintain the historic four lane configuration (two
lanes each way) within approximately one mile east
and west of Sierra Avenue, contributing to the more
urban environment of this gateway node.
• Landscape & Streetscape Improvements: Add
landscaped medians in Sierra and Foothill with large
canopy trees to visually narrow / enclose these wide
streets.
• Improve & complete sidewalks:Ensure a
continuous, comfortably-wide sidewalk, buffered
from traffic with landscaped parkways and planters,
and in some cases parked cars, along the corridors.
• Gateway branding & wayfinding elements:

Provide gateway elements on Foothill Blvd directing
and welcoming visitors to the Downtown area. On
Foothill in particular, these elements are encouraged
to include original Route 66 design characteristics,
including neon lights, and signage.
• Gateway buildings: Allow increased building
height and intensity on the 4 corners of Foothill and
Sierra, to incentive redevelopment with prominent
buildings that define & establish this gateway node.
• Frontages: Encourage/require buildings face to
provide appropriate frontages onto the
street/sidewalk. Specific Frontage Types,
appropriate to specific commercial, residential, and
street type conditions and characteristics, are
provided in full in the Downtown Development
Code.

Add a landscaped and tree lined median
along Foothill, to add shade and enclosure,
and contribute to the urban environment of
this gateway node.

Provide comfortably-wide sidewalks,
buffered from traffic by landscaping and
parked cars, to increase commercial activity
and pedestrian comfort and safety
While most of foothill has seven lanes of traffic,
there are stretches as shown above, where the
corridor reduces to four lanes due to historic
buildings, there is a desire for these buildings
to remain.

Modern re-interpretations of Route 66-era
designs incorporated into a commercial
district—Albuquerque, New Mexico.
1127
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.59 Goal 2: South Sierra Ave Gateway

STRATEGIES
The Sierra Corridor south of Downtown, is a highvolume, fast-moving four lane road, fronted by a patchwork of shopfronts, strip commercial centers,
used car dealerships, and fast food restaurants, and
is anticipated to change significantly over time.

With careful planning, coordinated infill
development and public realm improvements, this
segment can beavaluable gateway for the
DowntownCore, gradually transitioning the design
character and travel speed of the corridor to those
supportive of a walkable, urban mixed-use
environment
Chaffey College is located at the intersection of
Merrill and Sierra, with plans for its expansion
along west side of Sierra, including the possibility
of commercial, housing and mixed-use infill
development in the near to mid-term future—
expansion along west side of Sierra, including the
possibility of commercial, housing and mixed-use
infill development in the near to mid-term
future— that would be within easy walking
distance of Metrolink and Downtown.

As such, this segment of Sierra is envisioned as a hub
for education and job creation, prioritizing new infill and business development that supports the growth of
the college, young professionals and other employmentrelated uses. Sample uses include student housing, mixed-use commercial and retail, R&D, livework, multitenant and start-up business incubator spaces.

Altogether, these uses will coalesce as the south anchor of Downtown, driving new customers and economic
growth into the Downtown Core.

Chaffey College's expanding campus will add valuable
new building frontages with multiple pedestrian
entrances along Sierra and Merrill.

Concept Plan for the South Sierra Gateway
(Drawing is conceptual)
SIERRA
1128
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.60 Actions
Specific actions in support ofthis transformationinclude:
• Public Realm Improvements: Add large-canopy
street trees, enhanced landscaping and lighting, and
comfortable street furniture that calm traffic, that
improvepedestrianandbicyclesafetyandcomfort,and
calm traffic as it approaches theDowntown Core.
• Infill Development: Incentivize quality new
corridor- fronting infilldevelopment(housingand
commercial) in vacant and underutilizedparcels
along Sierra.
• Gateway branding & wayfinding elements:Add
branding and wayfinding elements that signal arrival
to Downtown. Santa Fe Park, highly visible after
traveling over the railroad tracks just south of Orange Way, could be modified with landscape
improvements and branding and gateway elements to
become a formal gateway into the Downtown Core.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle amenities: Prioritize
bicycle parking, car-sharing and bike-sharing
services, sheltered bus stops, widened sidewalks,
and mid-block pedestrian crossings in the segments
from Chaffey College to Downtown, in support of
increased student/ pedestrian activity.
• Market"mode-shift"alternativesinsupport
of Downtown: Identify strategies, branding,
and incentives that will influence "mode-shift"
away from passenger vehicles and encourage
greater use of Metrolink, Omnitrans, local
public transit, pedestrian and bicycle routes to
bring new customers to Downtown.

A complete streetscape that prioritizes
pedestrians and enhances traffic calming
Strategically placed and clearly marked
pedestrian crossings effectively contribute
to a comfortable, safe public realm.

Modern transit facilities with comfortable
amenities encourage greater use.

Bicycle facilities in the South Sierra Corridor may include shared-lane "sharrows" (left) along segments of Sierra with limited right of way (ROW). Public frontages (right) may also incorporate bicycle parking / sharing. 1129
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.61 Goal 3: Corridor Infill

STRATEGIES
Many existing blocks adjacent the
downtown corridors, because of the
original rural/agricultural subdivision
patterns of Fontana, are very large, and
not generally walkable. These blocks
contain a number of large, vacant and
underutilized parcels -- opportunistically
located in and around Downtown -- that
provide significant opportunity-sites
for substantial commercial, residential
and mixed-use infill development, that
will provide new conveniently-located
housing and increased economic
activity in support of Downtown.

Where possible and practical, subdivide
large blocks to provide additional
connectivity between corridors and adjacent
neighborhoods, as well as unlock new
development potential on underutilized
land in and around the downtown.
• Prioritize Street-Fronting Infill: New
infill development should be located close
to the street/sidewalk, contributing to a
consistent urban pattern along the corridors.

Unlike the Downtown Core, where a
continuous "street wall" is desired,
buildings along the corridors will more
typically have spaces between them, with
parking organized behind and/or beside
them. (See Illustration to the right).

A wide range of styles characters and uses can be
appropriate along the corridors.

Conceptual infill along Foothill, adding new mid-block
connectivity, and locating new buildings close to the
street with parking located at the back and/or side.

JUNIPER
1131
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.63 • Prioritize New Development and
Improvements at Gateways:Prioritize/
concentrate building intensity (taller and
closertothe street)andfocusedpublic realm
improvements, on corridor segments
approaching gateway nodes (i.e. the
intersection of Foothill and Sierra). As the
corridor gradually becomes more urban
approaching Downtown, it will signal to
drivers that they are arriving to a significant
"place."
• Require "Corridor-Appropriate"
Housing Types: Balance the goal of street
fronting infill development along the corridors
with the need for additional privacy for
residential units due to the higher traffic
volumes and speeds along the corridors. While
direct visitor access from the street/sidewalk
should be required, residential units can be
arranged around semi-private courts, open
spaces (that could be secured with gates), and
dooryards—or can be accessed internally
via an entry lobby—that open(s) to the
street/ sidewalk.
• Improve the Public Realm: Wherever
possible/ practical, take measures to include
public realm improvements—comfortably -
wide sidewalks, shaded by canopy trees, with
appropriate street furnishings (benches, bike
racks, trash receptacles, etc...) and buffered
from traffic by well-landscaped planters, and
on-street parking (where applicable)—as part
of new development agreements. This should
done carefully, and be balanced with the goal
of streamlining the development process for
potential investors in the Downtown.

FOOTHILL
Prominent new buildings at the intersection of
Foothill & Sierra help define this gateway.

New multi-family residential buildings fronting
the street with paseos and walks providing
visitor access from the street to apartments, and
resident parking at the rear of the complex.

Courtyard buildings along Sierra create a semi
public space and buffer residences from the
main living area apartment SIERRA
1132
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.64 Gateway corner buildings create a sense of entry. Prominent mixed-use residential building with an active ground-floor that engages the public realm
Example of a multifamily alley-accessed building provides semi-private courtyards and creates a buffer between
residents and the adjacent corridor.

Multifamily housing calibrated to students and young
professionals may be considered near Chaffey College and the Metrolink Station Area.

Townhomes above ground-floor retail along a
major corridor
Corridor buildings should integrate public realm
improvements such as widened sidewalks, canopy
trees, street furnishings and related amenities.
1133
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.65 Getting Started:GatewayCorridors
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Gateway Signage: The City will prepare a comprehensive graphics program for Downtown branding, identity and
wayfinding, including gateway landmarks and directional signage on Foothill Boulevard, Arrow Boulevard and Sierra Avenue, directing and welcoming visitors to Downtown.

Gateway signage will be implemented as funding is
available, in coordination with streetscape improvements.

City

2. Code Update: The City will prepare, adopt and implement updated zoning and design guidance for the Gateway
Corridors to help ensure that infill development
contributes to the new Downtown Gateway character
of these key corridor segments. This will include unique Route 66 Guidelines for Foothill Boulevard, as well as
permit process streamlining and near-term reduction in
“red tape” required for infill development or to establish or expand businesses that contribute to Downtown Gateway
place-making.

City

Improvements will be implemented through catalytic
public investments as funds are available and by
developers as projects occur.

City

4. Transit Stop Improvements: The City will work
collaboratively with Omnitrans and property owners
adjacent to planned bus station locations to design safe, comfortable pedestrian access and waiting areas
surrounded by neighborhood-serving commercial uses
that help provide a secure 18-hour environment.

City/Omnitrans

5. Neighborhood Connectivity: In conjunction with Foothill Boulevard and Transit Stop improvements, the City will
work collaboratively with existing property owners,
developers, and residents of adjoining neighborhoods
to seek opportunities to provide new direct pedestrian, bicycle, and in some cases vehicular connections from
the neighborhoods to businesses along the corridor, to
support the businesses and shorten trips.

City
Note: "Owners" refers, collectively, to business owners and property owners. All actions are anticipated to include collaboration/cooperation between the City, owners, and other interested organizations and individuals.
1134
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.66 Example of a Livable Corridor - Old Town Pasadena, California. 1135
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.67 I
"In-Town" Neighborhoods
Enhancing Neighborhoods In and Near Downtown
Concurrent with new activities, infill
and economic investment in
Downtown, an increased demand for
new housing, in a variety of forms,
conveniently located within and near a
walkable and bikable Downtown is
envisioned. While the original
neighborhoods to the east of
Downtown are well established, with
little near-term change anticipated, the
large blocks west of Downtown—in
particular those just west of Juniper
Ave, south of Foothill Blvd—contain
many large, vacant or underutilized
parcels that are prime locations for
well-organized, neighborhood
infill housing, in a variety of intensities, forms, and configurations, based on market-demand and best neighborhood-planning practices, as described more fully in this Section. Further, mixed use developments combining commercial and residential land uses are to be encouraged in the Downtown.

A key opportunity of this plan is to ensure predictable infill development types that contribute to an active, attractive, walkable downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, and inject new residents (and as a result, new customers) into the immediate Downtown area. Without proper guidelines and development standards, the market might otherwise just "fill-up" many of these high-value opportunity sites with low-density, auto-oriented housing types that do little more than add traffic congestion Downtown Area, as opposed to evolving an "in- town" neighborhood fabric catered to residents who value being able to walk or bike to local businesses, restaurants, and transit, in the activity-rich downtown.
1136
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.68 The vision for these neighborhoods is very similar to the patterns existing in many of California's best cities,
where single family detached homes are seamlessly
intermixed with a variety of neighborhood-scaled multifamily housing types, in calm, quiet, pedestrian-scaled blocks defined by tree-lined streets and shared open
spaces. Top level goals for pursuing this vision include:

Goal 1: ShadyNeighborhood Streets and
Open Spaces
The early founders of many towns throughout
California understood how to design neighborhoods
that sheltered their residents from the often harsh sun and winds, providing streets lined with trees in
parkways, planters, and medians and parks full of big
shade trees. These low-speed street environments are
inherently safe for pedestrians, and add a great deal of value to properties that front them.

Goal 2: Neighborhood-Scale Blocks
Essential to creating neighborhoods that are walkable,
bikable, active and safe, and that accommodate a
range of neighborhood-scale development types, is
starting with a highly connected network of blocks
and streets that are designed for, and appropriately
scaled to pedestrians, while still accommodating
efficient vehicular and transit circulation.

Goal 3: Neighborhood-Scale Buildings
All buildings, large and small, are made up of houseform and neighborhood scale massing elements, and all are street-facing, with frontages scaled to the
pedestrian. These frontages provide a degree of
privacy for the residents while providing direct
access for visitors, as well as adding "eyes on the
street" for safety and security.

Existing street trees on Nuevo Avenue
effectively frame the street while providing
privacy to local residents.

Single family homes comprise the majority
of neighborhoods surrounding Downtown.

New housing will complement these
existing neighborhoods in size, scale and
architectural style.

Attached single-family homes in a traditional
neighborhood setting
1137
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.69 Goal 1: Shady Streets And Open Spaces

STRATEGIES
In-town neighborhoods will be defined by an
active network pedestrian-scaled blocks, streets,
and open spaces, comfortably designed with
continuous sidewalks, attractive landscaping, and
sheltered from the sun and wind by large-canopy
shade trees, to encourage walking and biking,
while accommodating traffic at low to moderate
speeds. This interconnected network will
accommodate, and in some cases unlock,
development potential for a variety of new
housing types all within a short walking or biking
distance to the activity-rich Downtown Core.

Ensure neighborhood streets balance the needs
of all modes.

Unique tree species can be planted on individual
neighborhoods streets to define and differentiate
them from each other.

Residential streets should comfortable and safe.
1138
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.70 • Make parks and open spaces multifunctional and safe:Design all parks and open spaces to accommodate a variety
of uses and activities, including informal
meeting places, children's play areas,
community events, outdoor recreation and
organized sports. These spaces should be
attractive, safe and comfortable—with
trees providing shade and wind protection,
and surrounding development providing
"eyes on the park" for additional safety.
• Orient new development to front
streets and shared open spaces:with
the front door of the residence facing the
streets, and with attractive human scale
frontages that welcome visitors rather than
sound walls or security fences which send
messages of “keep out”.
• Manage on-street parking on
neighborhood streets:

Implement a residential street
permit parking management
system to ensure adequate
resident and visitor parking.

Bike facilities should be provided on busier residential streets and corridors.

Neighborhood-serving park with a shaded playground
and large open space for sports and other outdoor rec
Corner bulb-outs and crosswalks calm traffic and
enhance pedestrian safety.

Continuous sidewalk shaded by large canopytrees,
and buffered from traffic bya landscaped parkway
and parked cars.

Neighborhood-serving park with a shaded playground
and large open space for sports and other outdoor
recreation.
1139
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.71 Goal 2: Neighborhood-Scaled Blocks

STRATEGIES
A comfortable, walkable neighborhood street.

The neighborhoods to the east and west of Downtown
have very different urban block patterns, and by result, very different development characteristics. The area
east of Sierra Ave contains many of the original
downtown residential neighborhoods, subdivided into
a series of well-connected, pedestrian-scale blocks and streets, lined with shade trees and sidewalks, and
almost fully developed with single-family homes.

In the area immediately west of Downtown, original
rural subdivision patterns remain largely intact; very
large blocks containing very deep (up to 300ft)
parcels, originally platted with the intent of rural
development pattersinmind,(small house with a big
front yard, and a farmin the back ofthe lot). Many of
these rural lots remain vacant or underutilized.

The exhibit to the right illustrates block scale
comparisons between the original downtown
neighborhoods east of downtown, and their rural
counterparts, west of downtown. What is immediately
clear is: 1) the difference in walkability between these two parts of town, and 2) nearly all of the
opportunities for significant neighborhood infill are in the area immediately west of Downtown.

In order to accommodate and attract the greater
mix of housing types in the interconnected,
walkable neighborhood patterns necessary to
support the economic and social revitalization of
Downtown, improved connectivity and
circulation will be necessary in many of these
blocks.

As illustrated in this diagram, the neighborhoods
east and west of downtown have significantly
different urban block and development patterns.

Several large blocks immediately west of
downtownwere originallyplatted with rural
development patterns in mind, and contain
many vacant or underutilizedparcels.

The original single-family neighborhood
east ofDowntown are made up of walkable
pedestrian-scaled blocks lined with trees
and sidewalks.
1140
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.72 Strategies &Actions:

Evolving the neighborhoods in and around
Downtown into comfortable, walkable
places with a range of housing options
organized by an attractive, safe public realm,
will involve the following elements:
• Subdivide large rural blocks to
increase walkability and expand
development potential: The Exhibit to
the right illustrates conceptual
subdivision and infill strategies for one of
the large superblocks west of downtown.

Choose appropriate development types
based on lot size and neighborhood
context.
• Avoid new mistakes:Avoid
approving developments that may
eliminate the potential for future
connectivity, and that do not
contribute to the walkable/bikable
neighborhoods strategy near
Downtown.

EXHIBIT X.8 "SUPERBLOCK" SUBDIVISION
For any given block, identify potential infill sites, look for opportunities to add circulation through the block, and establish connectivity with existing development.

Example infill study with new walkable internal block
structure and public realm highlighted. All new buildings (in a range of neighborhood-scale typologies) front either streets or shared open spaces with direct street access, and visitor parking is provided on-street.

AVOID: Reject proposals that cauterize or "wall-off"
existing or potential points of connection, or rely on
single access points in and out of the development. These development patterns discourage pedestrian and bicycle
circulation, and tend to have a inactive and unsafe public realm.

Indicates Public Realm
Potential Connectivity
*
Potential Point of Connection
Wall
Dead-end
AVOID: This typical suburban street frontage is
undesirable and counterproductive for creating
a walkable public realm. 1141
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.73 Goal 3: Neighborhood-Scale Buildings

STRATEGIES
For decades, housing in California has been
delivered almost exclusively in one of two forms:
single-family detached, houses with garages
fronting the street, or large apartment complexes.

Neither type is ideally suited to in-town living; the
former detracting from neighborhood walkability,
and thinly spreading the population where
density and proximity are valuable; the latter not
being compatible with surrounding single-family
neighborhood patterns. Fortunately, there is a
wide range of types in between (often referred to
as "Missing Middle" types) offering for sale and
for rent dwellings in a variety of forms,
intensities, configurations, and price points.

Neighborhood-scale multi-family buildings look
just like a large house, but have multiple units.

This 3-unit rowhouse has the scale and character
of a large house.

The value of these types of buildings is that they can
provide greater housing intensity needed near
Downtown, without disrupting the existing
neighborhood Character.
• Update neighborhood development standards:

Because of the unusually deep lot sizes characteristic of many of the opportunity sites west of downtown, and
because of the largely rural development patterns there, neighborhood development standards must be carefully
crafted to ensure that all new development is
appropriately scaled and massed to its lot and
surrounding context, and contributes the mix of housing types and walkable/bikable neighborhood character
attractive topotential residents wanting to live near
Downtown.

Buildings in a variety of sizes, types, and
configurations can be seamlessly integrated into
the existing neighborhood fabric.
1142
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.74 Examples of a range of neighborhood-scaled, multi-family building types (often referred to as "missing middle" types) that can be seamlessly inserted into Downtown Neighborhoods. Development standards for implementing these types are further specified in the Downtown Development Code.

Variety is encouraged: Two different versions of a courtyard building, with very different architectural styles; modern/contemporary on the left, and traditional/Mediterranean on the right. 1143
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.75 Porches clearly mark the entry to the house, and
provide a transition from public to private space
In more urban environments, dooryards provide a
more transitional space between the public realm an
private residence, and help delineate the public realm. • Prioritize building frontages first:

Focusing first on how buildings front and
shape the Public Realm will help ensure that
all new neighborhood infill contributes to the
walkable bikable "in-town" neighborhood
character intended for this area. This
includes:
> All buildings front the public realm:

Each new building should have direct
access from a public street/sidewalk, or a
shared, semi-private open space such as a
courtyard, rosewalk, or green by way of
an appropriate neighborhood frontage
patten. (See Exhibit X.X).
> All buildings provide easy access for
residents and visitors: All new
buildings should pass the "visitor test" --
meaning residents and visitors must be
able to easily navigate to/access the front
door of a housing unit (or common entry
lobby) from the street without having to
navigate through a parking lot.
> All buildings have clear entries: All
buildings must provide entry via an
appropriate Frontage Type. Typical
residential frontage types include
porches, stoops, dooryards, and terraces,
which provide a clear transition from the
public to private realm. Specific
standards for these types are provided in
the Downtown Development Code.
> All buildings provide "eyes-on-thestreet": Neighborhoods with buildings that have main entrances and windows
oriented toward the public realm are
inherently safer than those with buildings
that are primarily oriented inward.

A bungalowcourt arranges several cottages around a
shared open space that is accessible from the street/
sidewalk.
1144
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.76 Residential Frontages provide access for residents and visitors to the front-door of a unit (or common entry lobby), either directly from the street/sidewalk, or through a shared open space accessible from the street. Street Street 1145
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023 City Council Resolution 2023- 14.77 Getting Started: In Town Neighborhoods
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Streetscape Improvements: The City will work with
residents to identify and prioritize a series of pedestrian improvementswithin theDowntownArea neighborhoods.

These would include filling in gaps in the sidewalk
network, adding corner bulb-outs to help calm traffic and redirect through traffic, street trees for shade and wind protection, improved crosswalks at key locations, and
adding or updating streetlights for safety and energy
efficiency.

City

2. Code Update: The City will prepare, adopt and implement updated zoning and design guidance for the Gateway
Corridors to help ensure that infill development
contributes to rather than disrupting neighborhood scale and character.

City

3. Parking Management: In consultation with neighborhood residents and property owners, the City will prepare a
Neighborhood Parking Management Program aimed at
ensuring the equitable utilization of on-street parking in the neighborhoods. Measures would likely include the
issuance of limited numbers of parking permits so that
residents of certain properties—or customers of nearby
businesses—to not unreasonably monopolize available
on-street parking.

City/Residents

4. Open Space Improvements: The City will identify
opportunities to introduce new public open spaces—such
as small parks, greens or playgrounds—in conjunction with new infill development projects.

City/Developers/Residents

5. Neighborhood Connectivity: In conjunction with
Foothill Boulevard and Transit Stop on Sierra Avenue
improvements and infill development proposals, the City will work collaboratively with existing property owners, developers, and residents of adjoining neighborhoods
to seek opportunities to provide new direct pedestrian, bicycle, and in some cases vehicular connections from
the neighborhoods to businesses along the corridor, to
support the businesses and shorten trips.

City/Developers/Residents
Note: "Owners" refers, collectively, to business owners and property owners. All actions are anticipated to include collaboration/cooperation between the City, owners, and other interested organizations and individuals.
1146
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Downtown Area Plan

SECTION PAGE
Introduction - Downtown Area Plan Rationale 2
A. Downtown Area Plan Guiding Principles 4
B. Findings, Challenges And Opportunities 6
C. What the Community Said 12
D. Goals And Policies 14
E. Downtown Area Plan Intent And Authority 16
F. Placemaking Strategy for the Downtown 18
G. Downtown Core 20
Goal 1: A Livable Public Realm 24
Goal 2: Buildings Shape the Public Realm 40 32
Goal 3: An Activity-Rich Downtown 48 40
Goal 4: Park-Once District 60 49
Goal 5: Clear Branding And Wayfinding 62 51
Getting Started 64 53
H. Gateway Corridors 66 55
Goal 1: Foothill Boulevard Gateway 68 57
Goal 2: South Sierra Avenue Gateway 70 59
Goal 3: Corridor Infill 72 61
Getting Started 76 65
I. In-Town Neighborhoods 78 67
Goal 1: Shady Streets And Open Spaces 80 69
Goal 2: Neighborhood-Scaled Blocks 82 71
Goal 3: Neighborhood-Scaled Buildings 84 73
Getting Started 88 77
CHAPTER 14
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Downtown Area Plan Rationale
Through the Fontana Forward public process for Fontana’s new General Plan, a central element of the vision for Fontana’s future was to broaden and diversify the community’s offerings of housing, retail and lifestyle choices beyond its recent and current “bedroom suburb” emphasis. The following represent the primary goals identified with support from the Community.

1. Develop more walkable, transit-servable neighborhoods (i3 Neighborhoods) that provide a broader range of housing types for a wider range of household sizes, ages, income levels and lifestyles.

3. Make Downtown Fontana a destination - a lively mixed-use district and cultural hub - that more people want to visit more often and spend more time, and money. This goal was overwhelmingly embraced by Fontana Forward participants.

The above ideas are presented in more
detail in Sections 14 and 15 of this General
Plan.

As the conversation turned to the
question of where in Fontana such
districts, neighborhoods and corridors
might be most appropriate and practical
to implement
in Fontana, it quickly became clear that
Central Fontana (generally between
Foothill Boulevard and I-10, as shown on
the facing page) was particularly suitable
based on:
• The availability of sizable quantities of vacant and underutilized land; • The fact that the street network in this area could easily be adapted to such interconnected development patterns;
• A broad community consensus that such places could “fit in” well in Central Fontana, and less so farther to the north or south; and;
• Reinvestment in this part of town could also be valuable in supporting the revitalization of the Downtown.

As further evidence of the suitability of Central Fontana as a priority area for implementing the new General Plan, the General Plan Guiding Principles all prove highly relevant and applicable to the areas surrounding the Downtown. Those principles are listed on the following 1148
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pages, with subtext keying them specifically to the Downtown Area (a.k.a. Central Fontana).
2 Fontana General Plan
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EXHIBIT X.1 FONTANA FORWARD STRATEGIC POLICY MAP AND CONTEXT Connected Neighborhood i3
Neighborhood
Downtown Arts, Culture and
Entertainment
Livable Corridor
Downtown Area Plan
*For detailed explanation of the
General Plan Districts see page
XX.

Map not to scaleChapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 3
Downtown
Area Plan
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A
Downtown Area Plan Guiding Principles

1. Pursue high quality development.

Downtown Fontana is a real place with its
own unique identity and character. The
quality of new development should build on
the qualities of it historic commercial and
civic buildings to help conserve its heritage
and character.

2. Connect people and places. Make human
scale connections wherever possible -
the success of downtown businesses is
directly related to the ability of customers
Historic Fontana as inspiration for the future
Green brings life to a street
to easily find and access them.

3. Be business-friendly. To take maximum
advantage of Downtown's central location,
existing amenities, and opportunities
for growth it will be important that
the business community and the City
of Fontana actively recruit and
enthusiastically welcome and support new and
growing businesses.

4. Support education, careers and job- related
growth. Downtown already includes a mix of
educational institutions, cultural amenities,
and underutilized properties. This is an ideal
mix to support additional educational
opportunities, new businesses, and
entrepreneurial activities to generate good
new local jobs.

5. Make healthy lifestyles easy and
fun. Create reasons and places for the
community to gather and join together in
shared activities; make streets memorable
spaces where it's comfortable to be a
pedestrian and cyclist.

Invite people to walk and bike
4 Fontana General Plan
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7. Ensure fairness and opportunity for all
parts of the city. The Downtown is the part
of town most intended to be shared by
everyone. Make it attractive and easy for
local business to locate and grow in the
Downtown, and encourage a variety of
housing types located within a comfortable
walk to Downtown.

8. Be cost effective and flexible. Needs and
wants evolve over time, and Downtown
buildings more than most are easily
adaptable to changing businesses and
activities. Maintain flexibility to take
advantage of future opportunities, without
compromising other principles.

9. Act transparently. Reviving Downtown is a
big job and without the strong support of
the Fontana community and City
government, it won’t happen. Trust,
consensus, enthusiasm and commitment
will need to be built, before building streets
and buildings.

10. Pursue goals through partnerships. Good
things happen when good people make them
happen. If we want good businesses to come
to Fontana, we need to figure out what it will
take to get them there and then do it. If we
want high quality civic spaces in Downtown,
we need to figure out what it should look like,
what it will cost, and how we can pay for it,
and then do it.

Gathering places can be found in unexpected places
Make room for the creative and the entrepreneurial
Downtown will be plentiful if we make it happen
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 5
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B
Findings And Challenges

FINDINGS
Overview
The Downtown Area Plan encompasses approximately one square mile around the historic Downtown, centered on the intersection of Sierra Avenue and Arrow Boulevard. The following findings were made base on a review of the existing built environment in this area and a review of applicable policies and regulations in Fontana's current planning and zoning documents.

Land Use Patterns And
Zoning —Findings
• Downtown Urban Patterns:

Fontana’s central area has an
low scale urban form and semiconnective road network that reflects its history as an
agricultural community and
small factory town.
• Historic Resources and
Patterns: The Downtown Area
includes the highest concentration
of historic buildings in town,
including the Fontana Women’s
Packing House, Art Depot
(formerly the Red Car station),
and several historic homes. In
many cases inappropriate
improvements have degraded
their quality.
• Vacant and Underutilized
Land: Many parcels very close
to Downtown are substantially
vacant, previously used as
farmland, storage yards, or car
dealerships.
• Existing
Zoning/Regulations: Current
zoning and development
standards are single use zones,
including low density housing,
commercial of various types,
light industrial, and
public/civic facilities.
6 Fontana General Plan
Findings were previously gathered at multiple
community workshops, analyzed, and presented
back to the community in order to identify key
challenges and opportunities facing Downtown.
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Key characteristics of these zones include: 1) residential intensities of 12 dwelling units per acre and less; and, 2) commercial and industrial zones in which housing or mixed-use development are not allowed.

In addition to the exclusive zones above, there are two overlay districts:

Downtown Overlay District: Encourages public realm
improvements oriented to pedestrians.1
Boulevard Overlay District: Designates parcels along the major corridors of Sierra, Foothill and Arrow as appropriate for mixed-use and multi-tenant development.2
Housing—Findings
• Housing Market Trends: City currently has
9,000 new housing units entitled for construction,
and an anticipated demand of 20,000 units total
through 2030, according to [get source info
from Stantec/ Kosmont].
• Single-Family: Housing in the Downtown area
primarily consists of single-family homes, most
built from the 1920s and 1980s. In most cases
garages face the street, while some are accessed
by rear alley.
• Multifamily Housing: Most multifamily housing
in Downtown is focused on below-market-rate
affordable units and/or senior living. Community
input confirmed that the tall security fences
surrounding many of these properties are a
response to the perception that such housing is
associated with high crime rates.
• Senior Housing: Most of the multi-family
housing in the Downtown Area is senior housing,
many below- market-rate. In the mid-2000s, the
City built several hundred senior units adjacent to
the Metrolink Station.
• Affordable Family Housing: According to
SCAG's 2014-2021 2021-2029Regional Housing
Needs Assessment (RHNA), the City of Fontana is
projected to need 5,977 additional units - 52%
17,519 additional units – 46% of which (8,059) are to
be for extremely low income, very low income, and
low income households.31
"The Fountains at Sierra" at the intersection
of Sierra and Ceres is one of five senior
multifamily buildings built in the mid-2000s.
• Student Housing: Currently there are no housing options well suited to college students in the Downtown area. Chaffey is a commuter campus. Chaffey College Master Vision Plan anticipates an approximate 40% growth in enrollment from 3,270 to over 4,600 by 2025.

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 7
Example of existing single-family
homes and neighborhoods near
Downtown - Upland Avenue.
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Access, Circulation and Mobility —Findings
• Vehicular Circulation And Parking: The Downtown is perceived to have a number of inconvenient traffic patterns. Many residents noted excessive traffic congestion during peak hours, especially when a Metrolink or BNSF train passes through Downtown.

There is a perceived lack of parking in the Downtown. After a comparative analysis of available parking and observations of parking trends - Downtown is found to have ample quantities of on- and offstreet parking spaces and facilities, may of which are underutilized or unknown due to lack of clear signage, street and curb striping, and wayfinding.

Additional parking will be needed to support the higher level of activities associated with the revitalized downtown.
• Pedestrian Circulation: Pedestrian circulation is
enabled but not prioritized in Downtown.

Wide streets with few crossings
contribute to lower levels of pedestrian
and bicycle use.

Downtown include:
> Class I (dedicated, buffered): The regional
Pacific Electric Trail (PET) travels 6.4 miles across
the City east to west. The PET is the only fully
dedicated and buffered bicycle route in the City of
Fontana and allows for multi-use, but is not heavily
used due to perceived public safety concerns.
> Class II (dedicated, unbuffered lanes): There
are two Class II lanes in the Downtown, along
Ceres and Juniper Avenues.
> Class III "Sharrows" (shared with vehicular
lanes): The majority of these lanes are found in
Downtown along on Sierra, Foothill, Arrow and
Cypress. However in most cases the prevailing
vehicular speeds are higher than the 25 m.p.h. ideal
speed or 35 m.p.h. top recommended speed for
shared lanes.
• Traffic Collisions: While the Downtown area
makes up about 3% of the City's total acreage, the
Downtown accounted for 12% of citywide traffic
collisions between July 2010 and July 2016, and 15%
and 16%, respectively, of collisions involving
pedestrians and bicycles.
8 Fontana General Plan
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• Metrolink: Metrolink is generally perceived as a
valuable regional asset in Fontana, although train
timing and stopping locations often conflict with
traffic.
• Public Transit: Omnitrans currently provides eight
bus routes with local and regional access to
Downtown (Route 10, 14, 15, 19, 20, 61, 66 and 67).

The primary transit hub is adjacent to the Fontana
Metrolink Station.
• Sierra Avenue: Sierra Avenue is the primary spine
through Fontana's historic core and extends to the
north and south connecting of Fontana's newer
neighborhoods, and major commercial and industrial
centers to Downtown. It also provides direct access to
the I-10, I-15 and 210 freeways. Currently, the
Downtown segment of Sierra (from Merrill to
Foothill) carries an between 30,000 and 40,000 average
daily traffic (ADT) along four lanes - this segment is
not a designated Truck Route.
• Foothill Boulevard: Foothill Boulevard is the
primary east-west corridor for the City of Fontana
and the north gateway to the Downtown Plan Area .

Historically part of Route 66, Foothill accommodates
over 40,000 ADT travel lanes. Some Route 66-era
buildings and uses remain, but most of this corridor
is characterized by a mix of commercial uses and
vacant parcels.
• Arrow Boulevard: Arrow Boulevard is a second
cross-valley highway, mostly four lanes but two to
the west, and carries less than half the traffic of
Foothill, approximately 20,000 ADT.
• Merrill Avenue: On the south edge of the
Downtown Area, Merrill Avenue runs east to west,
carrying approximate,y 15,000 ADT in four lanes.

Merrill primarily serves local commuters and
provides direct access to Chaffey College and local
bus routes.

Fontana Metrolink Station — a
regional asset for the City
Sierra Avenue — the primary north-south
corridor through the City and Downtown
Classic Route 66 era buildings along
Foothill Boulevard
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 9
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Fontana Memorial Rose Gardens
along Spring Street
Citrus berms parallel to the PET
Open Space and Recreation—Findings
The Downtown Area Plan is home to the following
parks and open spaces:
•Miller Park (5.6 ac.) and Amphitheater
(planned): Located immediately behind Lewis
Library, this park currently hosts a number of
community events including Concerts at the Park.

There are current plans for the park to be developed
into an amphitheater as a central event venue and
community gathering place.
• Seville Park (3.8 ac.): Seville Park is located
on the western edge of the Downtown Area Plan.
• Santa Fe Park (1.0 ac.): This centrally located
park, at the corner of Orange Way and Sierra
Avenue, is considered to be largely underutilized,
with great potential for community events.
•Memorial Rose Gardens (0.6 ac.): The rose
gardens, located on the north side of Spring Street,
are loved by many residents,
• Citrus Berms (PET adjacent): The citrus
berms, currently run parallel to the PET between
Juniper and Emerald Avenue. The berm
configuration is not well liked or used by the
community.

Jobs and Economic Makeup—Findings
• Need five bullet points from Stantec's Economic Analysis focused on downtown. Useful points would be:
• How many Independent vs national chains makeup of businesses • Information about shopfronts being used as warehouses ie: Out of the existing space that is zoned for commercial (office/retail) XX percent is leased to warehouse uses. (If this info is available
• How many acres of commercially zoned land there is in the DT area plan and how much is currently viable retail and office space. • Provide a Metric - within the area of DT core, a successful downtown of the amount of many acres, X number of square feet of commercial space, there is currently Y. And Expected gross revenue dollars of square foot of retail.
• Current Rents and what should be for a successful downtown. 10 Fontana General Plan
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CHALLENGES
The following challenges came out of an analysis of the findings:

Zoning Regulations
• Existing zoning, parking requirements and permit processes deter many businesses from locating Downtown.
• Existing commercial zoning regulations for the Downtown Core were written for suburban strip malls and do not allow construction of simple downtown building types without variances.
• Current zoning regulations, combined with low land values, result in prime Downtown locations being used for warehousing, surface parking or remain vacant.
• Current zoning regulations limit residential densities to 12 dwelling units per acre (DUA) and limit mixed-use, providing little ability or incentive for new investment to unlock latent land values and uses.

Downtown Character and Urban Design
• Out-of-date building safety and seismic standards limit the reuse of many fine old buildings in the Downtown.
• Ill advised Certain facade improvements and inconsistent street improvements have led to a disjointed, generally low quality urban design image.

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C
What The Community Said
This section summarizes public comments gathered through a series of community workshops and interviews for the Downtown Area Plan. Interviewees included residents, property owners, business owners and local employers, real estate professionals and developers, City Staff, and members of the local Chamber of Commerce and General Plan Advisory Committee. Many
Fontanans would like their Downtown to:

Downtown Character
• Be a local and regional destination for retail,
employment, culture, and housing, building
upon Fontana's historic character.
• Be a comfortable gathering place for future
generations, with a wide range of amenities for
families and visitors of all ages.

Economic Development
• Have regulations and incentives that support
a variety of retail and commercial businesses,
small and locally-owned businesses in
particular.
• Offer a wide variety of everyday conveniences such as bakeries, coffee shops, service businesses, boutiques and restaurants.
• Offer overnight lodging for visitors.

Transportation and Circulation
• Construct street improvements that calm traffic to improve pedestrian safety and mobility.
• Maintain adequate traffic flow through the Downtown.
• Accommodate future transit options.
• Increase the number and quality of bicycle routes and facilities. 12 Fontana General Plan
The consultant team engaged
community members at
Sunset on Sierra, July 30,
2016. The consultant team
attended both formal and
informal events in order to
reach a wide range of local
residents and stakeholders.
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Infill and Development
• Restore or redevelop older properties.
• Creatively adapt historic buildings to accommodate
new uses.
• Attract infill development and re-investment in the
Downtown with catalytic streetscape improvements.
• Update zoning and development standards to
help ensure high-quality architecture and
construction.
• Allow higher-intensity residential and mixed-use
development to attract a mix of housing options
for a range of household sizes, ages, incomes and
lifestyles.
• Update zoning to allow neighborhood scale multifamily and attached single-family infill housing types.

Open Space
• Reimagine and improve the Pacific Electric Trail (PET) as a civic park linking the Civic Center to the
Downtown Core.
• Replace berms and most citrus trees along Seville
with more useful and attractive open space amenities.

Parking Organization and
Management
• Provide convenient parking throughout the
Downtown.
• Enhance pedestrian connections to parking facilities. • Add parallel, diagonal and perpendicular parking
along selected street edges and in medians.
• Identify and reserve key locations for shared
parking facilities.

Planning Process and Regulation
• Simplify entitlement processes and conflicts
between zoning requirements and the General
Plan.
• Allow for Conditional Use Permits (CUP's) that
enable longer operating hours, reduced parking
ratios, and additional alcohol licenses, where
warranted, to help attract new businesses.
• Adopt building standards that enable historic and
older buildings to be feasibly adapted to new uses.
• Create a Downtown Management District to
coordinate programming, management,
maintenance and parking.

In addition to map markups and surveys,
community members shared comments and
ideas in public forums at the end of each
workshop or public gathering.
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D
Goals And Policies

GOALS POLICIES
Fontana Becomes a Local and Regional Destination
Make Downtown Fontana an important
regional destination for dining, shopping,
entertainment, special events, culture
and education.
• Encourage a mix of uses in the downtown core,
appealing to a wide range of customer types,
with a focus on families.
• Prioritize the Downtown Area for available
street and park improvement funding.
• Support regional transit initiatives that provide
enhanced access to the Downtown Area.

A Range of New Housing
Provide housing for a broad range of
household sizes, types and incomes
within the Downtown Area to help
support the health and growth of the
downtown economy.
• Encourage mixed-use development within the
Downtown and along major corridors.
• Encourage new medium-density housing on
vacant and underutilized parcels within the
neighborhoods of the Downtown Area.
• Ensure that new infill development is
compatible in scale and character with the
existing neighborhoods.
• Ensure that transportation and utility
infrastructure keeps pace with infill
development so that the neighborhood
character and quality steadily improves over
time.
• Encourage new “in-town” housing types
targeted to young people and young families to
help attract and retain the next generation of
Fontanans.
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GOALS POLICIES
Strengthened Connections Between Downtown Core And Major Corridors Reinvigorate the Foothill and Sierra
Corridors with a mix of retail,
employment, mixed-use and housing
development as an economic engine for
the Downtown Area, and as gateways to
Downtown.
• Ensure that future street improvements to
Foothill and Arrow Boulevards and Sierra Avenue
improve the appearance and pedestrian
environment while accommodating traffic flows.
• In addition to high quality commercial
development, encourage housing in
appropriate forms along these corridors.
• Concentrate higher development intensities
within a 1/4 mile of planned transit stops, with
shared parking arrangements when feasible.

Pedestrian-Oriented Design
Ensure that a beautiful, comfortable,
pedestrian-oriented public realm
seamlessly connects the Downtown
district, neighborhoods and major
corridors of the Downtown Area.
• Require that new development systematically
contribute to an interconnected network of
complete streets and pedestrian connections.
• Encourage new development to provide
beautiful, usable public and shared open
spaces for passive and active recreation, in
scale with the size and type of development.
• Prioritize available public improvement funds
and developer contributions to systematically
generate a strong urban tree canopy for shelter
from summer sun and strong winds.

Center for Education
The area along Sierra Avenue and
Merrill Street will become a College
District, with a mix of housing
and employment surrounding and
supporting the growing Chaffey College
campus.
• The City will work collaboratively with the
College to attain this goal.
• Encourage higher density housing on
appropriate sites that is targeted to student,
faculty and staff.
• Encourage the formation and growth of
start-up and spin-off businesses related to or
supported by the College on appropriate sites.

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E
Downtown Area Plan Intent and
Authority
Intent
The intent of this Plan is to provide a comprehensive vision for the Downtown Area, organized into specific goals, strategies and actions to direct and coordinate the implementation of that vision over time.

Relationship to General Plan
An "Area Plan" is authorized by the State of California as a tool that refines the vision, policies and regulations of a general plan as they apply to smaller geographic areas within the larger general plan area. As part of a general plan, Area Plans are fully-approved and enforceable documents, implemented by local ordinances such as those regulating land use and subdivision.1
Relationship to Municipal Code
In conjunction with this the 2015-2035 General Plan Update and Downtown Area Plan, new updated zoning for Downtown has been was prepared. This will be was incorporated into the Fontana Municipal Code (FMC) as the "Downtown Code." part of the “Form Based Code”, or “FBC.” The whole Downtown Area Plan area is within the Walkable Mixed Use - 1 land use category. The Downtown Form Based Code will provided all development standards and authorized land uses for all parcels within the boundary of the Downtown Area Plan identified in Exhibit X.1. The FMC developments and requirements in place prior to the adoption of the Downtown Code will be replaced by Chapter XX, Article XX upon adoption by the City of Fontana. Standards and topics within the Downtown Area Plan boundary not covered by this Area Plan will default to the standards of the greater General Plan and Municipal Code. 1165
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The new Downtown Core provides updated zoning regulations for the Core focus area within a new Walkable Mixed Use-3 land use category. This land use category will accommodate higher residential densities and mixed uses supportive of a more walkable and vibrant downtown. 16 Fontana General Plan
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Downtown is a place for shopping, living, working, recreation and community life - Ventura, California.

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F
Placemaking Strategy for the Downtown
As a framework for systematically improving the urban character, function and value of Downtown Fontana, the Downtown area is divided into three primary districts or "Place Types," the Downtown Core, Gateway Corridors and In-Town Neighborhoods. The vision for and defining characteristics of each of these Place Types—along with prioritized strategies and actions—are described in this Plan. Following adoption of the Downtown Area Plan, new zoning will provide design standards that will be the regulatory tool that guides the implementation of the concepts described in this plan.

Downtown Core
The Downtown Core is made up of the three distinct but complementary subdistricts below:

Retail Core District
The Retail Core is Fontana's historic commercial district. Spanning two blocks of Sierra Avenue between Orange Way and Arrow Boulevard, it served as the City's "main street" through the 1960s, with wide sidewalks and open shopfronts. Following construction of the
I-10 and I-210 Freeways, this pedestrian-oriented main street gradually evolved into an auto- oriented corridor for through traffic. However, a strong majority of residents still view the Retail Core as the center for locally-owned business activity and hope to see it revitalized.

Civic Park District
Centered on Sierra Avenue and extending from Juniper to Mango Avenue, the Civic Park District will connect most of the civic functions in Fontana including City Hall, Lewis Library, Center Theater, Miller Park, the Pacific Electric Trail, and serve as the north gateway into the Downtown Core. Properties in this area include older commercial structures—some historic— and a number of underutilized parcels, offering great opportunity for new business activity.

Metrolink/Chaffey College District
Located immediately south of the Retail Core, the Metrolink Station Area includes senior apartments, the Fontana Senior Center, Santa Fe Park, commercial and industrial properties along the railroad tracks and Chaffey College. As the Downtown becomes revitalized, this area is anticipated to become a center for education and job creation, with improved connections Metrolink, serving as the southern gateway to the Downtown.

Gateway Corridors*
The Foothill Boulevard and Sierra Avenue Corridors have the potential to act as "funnels" bringing local and regional visitors to the Downtown. Both corridors currently include many vacant and low value commercial properties, providing great opportunity for implementation of the Livable Corridors concept, bringing new commercial amenities and housing options to the Downtown Area.

In-Town Neighborhoods*
Within the Downtown area, the neighborhoods east of Sierra Avenue are characterized by single- family homes, interconnected blocks, and well-coordinated streetscapes, while to the west of Sierra neighborhoods are more fragmented, with large open parcels of former farmland . These blocks offer significant infill development opportunities to generate the i3 Neighborhoods envisioned by the General Plan, providing a mix of new housing types within a comfortable walk or bike ride of the Downtown Core.
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*Recommendations for the sections of Gateway Corridors and Downtown Neighborhoods are applicable throughout the Livable Corridors and the i3 Neighborhood General Plan designation. For further information on these sections see Chapter 15.
18 Fontana General Plan
Civic Core
The Civic Core district would involve a mix of existing and new public uses, including the existing City Hall, Library, and Park spaces.

FOOTHILL
FOOTH ILL / ROUTE 66 GATEWAY

DOWNTOWN

CORE CIVIC
PARK
ARROW

WESTSIDE

NEIGHBORHOODS
RETAIL

CORE EASTSIDE NEIGHBORHOODS

STATION AREA

MERRILL SOUTH
SIERRA

GATEWAY
Downtown Area Plan
Boundary
Major Downtown Corridor
Pacific Electric Trail
Metrolink (U.P.R.R.)
Planned Transit
Station
Metrolink Station
Regional Keymap 0 1,000 2,000
Feet

JUNIPER
MANGO
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 19
EXHIBIT X.3 PROPOSED DOWNTOWN CORE
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G
Downtown Core
Goals for Creating an Integrated Retail Core,
Civic Park and Station Area
The overarching goal for Fontana's Downtown Core is
that it become the center of Fontana's community life:
the place to take the family for dinner, the place to
bring visitors to show them your town, the place for
community events, the place for arts and culture, the
place for young people to meet each other, the place
you go when you just want to find something
interesting to do.

Building on the historic Sierra Avenue Downtown
core and nearby historic buildings and streetscapes,
the plan is to systematically regrow a bigger and
better Downtown reinvigorated with new land uses,
activities, new businesses, new public landscape, and
new private development. The following pages set
forth the main goals and key strategies for remaking
the Downtown Core, with ideas drawn from
Fontana's history, from engaging public workshops,
and from lessons learned from other successful
downtowns throughout California.

The Downtown Core will seamlessly
integrate the Civic Park, Retail Core and
Metrolink Station Area.

Downtown as the heart of community life - example from Ventura, California20 Fontana General Plan

DOWNTOWN
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Goal 1: Livable Public Realm
The public realm is consists of the street network,
parks, and other publicly accessible open spaces along
with public and civic buildings and facilities. The
streets in the Downtown Core Area streets are
intended to become a unified, interconnected network
of safe, comfortable places for people to move about,
run errands, play with children, walk to dinner, and
spend time in the company of their friends and
neighbors. The jewels of the public realm will be the
parks, plazas and other public open spaces, which
along with the streets will be comfortable spaces for
daily life and flexible venues for special community
events.

Goal 3: Activity-Rich Downtown
A thriving, growing downtown must offer a wide range
of commercial and civic amenities that attract more
people, more often, to spend more time in Downtown.

Public realm includes streets and sidewalks
Mix of uses in a retail core
Beautiful downtown buildings
Finding your way around
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Top Priorities
The big ideas and top priorities of the Downtown
Area Plan include:
• Generate a concentration of commercial,
recreational, educational, and cultural activities
in the Downtown Core – whether in existing
refurbished buildings, existing refurbished
public open spaces, or new buildings – to make
it a compelling destination for Fontana
residents and out of town visitors.
• Systematically improve the existing
streets of the Downtown Core to provide
a more comfortable, walkable, shaded,
wind-buffered environment with
convenient customer parking, to help
attract customers, visitors, businesses to
visit more often and spend more time.
• Organize existing available parking and
provide wayfinding signage to make it easy for
visitors to park and explore the Downtown on
foot.
• Provide wayfinding signage to make it easy for
visitors to park and explore the Downtown on
foot.
• Re-imagine the Pacific Electric Trail right of
way as a “Civic Park District” connecting the
existing Civic Center to the historic Downtown
retail core with attractive, useful, comfortable
spaces for active and passive recreation, for
outdoor dining, and as flexible venue for
special community events.
• Provide updated development standards and
design guidelines to help attract and encourage
new investment, and ensure that each
increment of new investment – whether in just
a new awning or sign and coat of paint or a
whole new building – contributes to a unique
and high quality “Downtown Fontana” design
character.

The Conceptual Illustrative Plan, to the right,
highlights some of the development priorities and
improvements recommended for transformational
change in Downtown Fontana.

New Gateways, wayfinding and signage will
welcome visitors into the Downtown Core.

Downtown will host a lively mix of uses,
beautiful buildings and architectural forms.

Streets with ample trees and pedestrian
amenities will provide shade and wind
protection, and enhance the visibility of retail.
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Proposed improvements on Sierra Ave include adding parking lane planters and canopy trees, mid-block crossings, and street furnishings to calm traffic, support businesses, and provide a comfortable pedestrian environment.
22 Fontana General Plan
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Goal 1: A Livable Public Realm

Complete streets make all users comfortable people and cars.

Complete Streets
Complete Streets balance the safety
and comfort of pedestrians and
bicyclists with the convenience of
drivers. The great majority of the
Downtown Core's public realm
consists of public streets, which can
be systematically improved to create
an inviting pedestrian environment
that includes new, convenient
customer parking.
• Encourage walking around:
> Widen sidewalks as appropriate;
> Buffer pedestrians from moving traffic with
curbside parking, street trees, street lights and
other street furnishings;
> Provide wide but short well-marked crosswalks; and,
> Create walking shortcuts, including new passages
(streets, alleys, paseos) through existing large
blocks.

Clearly marked class II bike lanes along a
tree-lined street create more comfortable
environments for cyclists and motorists.
• Calm Traffic:
> Reduce selected travel lane widths to a practical
and safe minimum width to moderate driving
speeds to improve pedestrian safety and reduce
noise levels;
> Set the number of vehicular lanes at a practical
and safe minimum;
> Reduce traffic congestion and manage speeds by
synchronizing traffic signals to allow vehicles
driving at the posted speed to flow smoothly
through the area;
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> Provide more complete street tree canopies and
encourage development of taller mixed-use
buildings to clearly define the public realm - a
proven strategy for increasing driver awareness
and pedestrian safety.

Create a safe, comfortable bicycling
environment:
> Provide new bike lanes on selected streets,
including Arrow Boulevard;
> Moderated vehicular speeds on Downtown streets
will enable bicycle and vehicular traffic to safely
share lanes.
• Manage on-street parking:
> Provide curbside parking on all streets to provide
convenient customer parking, provide a safetybuffer for pedestrians, and help calm traffic; > Where the number and/or width of travel lanes can
be reduced without creating new congestion,
reconfigure on-street parking to expand the supply
of customer parking.

Clearly visible crosswalks with shortened
crossing distances enhance pedestrian
safety and calm traffic.

On-street parking, lighting and street trees
create a safe, comfortable pedestrian
environment.

A street is intentionally designed to slow cars down
with reduced travel lane widths, added bike lanes,
on- street parking, landscaping and street trees,
clearly- marked crosswalks and intersections.

Above, buildings frame the street to encourage
slower traffic speeds and allow for safer pedestrian
movement.
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Drought resistant plants and trees
contribute to local design and conservation.

Pervious parking pavement and canopy
trees enable stormwater infiltration.

Street trees with tall canopies provide
shade and wind protection for pedestrians,
and maintain visibility of retail frontages.

Downtown Landscape
• Build the urban tree canopy
Large canopy trees do more than any other single
strategy to make a comfortable outdoor environment
in a windy desert climate. Harsh sun and wind
conditions much
of the year, discourage walking and outdoor dining
or recreation. The early settlers of Fontana
understood this challenge and responded by
planting steady rows of
large trees to cut the wind, and large canopy trees in
parks around civic buildings to provide shade for
community activities.

Although most of that original landscape is gone, a
few Downtown neighborhood streets have retain ed
their historic canopy of large shade trees (Nuevo
Street north of Seville is a good example). Recent tree plantings in the Downtown have been primarily
"ornamental" and/ or "low maintenance" in nature
and do not contribute to the comfort and livability of
the public realm to make it a place where many
people would choose to spend their time. Key
elements of the new tree canopy strategy include:
> Plant canopy trees between the sidewalk and traffic
on all streets, to add shade and spatial enclosure,
provide a buffer from wind and traffic.
> In the retail core to select and maintain trees to
provide good visibility for shopfronts and
signage.
> Large canopy trees in the public open spaces of
Downtown should provide shade and wind
protection to make them comfortable for a wide
range of outdoor activities.
> Employ native and adaptive plant species to
reduce irrigation and maintenance without
sacrificing appearance.
• A Climate Calibrated Landscape
A drought tolerant and resilient urban landscape
that encourages and supports outdoor activity.
> Shade trees are worth the water required to establish and maintain them. Other landscape and hardscape
should emphasize simple concrete sidewalks,
pervious accent pavement, and drought tolerant
native and adaptive plants rather than shrubs, turn
or thirsty groundcovers.
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> Regionally adaptive accent plantings include aloes,
succulents, tall grasses and other plants that
require little water and no pruning.
> Stormwater infiltration should be incorporated
into on-street parking areas and off-street lots,
parkway strips and planters. This will provide
stormwater infiltration in support of
groundwater recharge and the growth and
health of street trees.

Street Furnishings
• A Well-Furnished Public Realm
Complete the Downtown landscape with the
"hardware" of comfortable, livable places: street
furniture, street lighting, bicycle parking, and bus
stops. Specific elements include:
> Street lights that provide a safe and pleasant quantity and quality of light appropriate to each district,
street, and space:
 LED lamps in the warm white spectrum,
with down-directed luminaries reduce
energy consumption, operating cost, and
glare.
 Street lights should be calibrated to the size and
function of the street, emphasizing human scale
and the pedestrian rather than just floodlighting
the roadway.
 Light poles and light levels along
neighborhood streets should be lower than
along the commercial corridors, with pools of
light at each fixture and at street intersections
and darker areas between.
> Seating areas should distributed throughout
Downtown to provide comfortable places for
visitors to catch their breath and extend their visit;
> Parklets can "widen the sidewalk" and to
provide additional space for outdoor dining.
>Movable tables and chairs in the retail/restaurant
core, provide a high level of flexibility to the use
of public spaces.
> Secure bike parking in convenient location along
retail streets, at corner plazas and paseos, and at
public parking lots will help bring customers who
do not add to traffic congestion and vehicle parking
demand.

Coordinated street lights and frontages
create a comfortable and safe setting
Street furniture
Parklets with flexible seating
Organized bike parking incorporated into
sidewalks within a downtown retail district
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Plaza with seating and event space
Example of a side dining court created from an open
lot adjacent to mixed-use retail
Temporary street festival and regular events may
be held on underutilized lots.

Open Space Network
• An Interconnected Network of
"Outdoor Rooms"
Evolve Downtown's streets, alleys, paseos,
parks, plazas, and other open spaces into an
interconnected network of "outdoor rooms"
lined with beautiful buildings with active
frontages to:
> Enhance the appearance and economic
value of the Downtown;
> Support a healthy in-town
lifestyle downtown the
emphasizes active
transportation;
> Enhance public safety by providing
more “eyes on the street;" and,
> Emphasize the connection between the
Downtown and Fontana's beautiful natural
setting, mountain views and natural
resources..
• Use vacant and underutilized
spaces as temporary event or
open spaces.

Downtown has many vacant or
underutilized parcels and "left-over"
spaces that with thoughtful design
improvements, could become attractive
and useful spaces for commercial, civic
and recreational activities. The following
strategies are recommended:
> In the retail core, mid-block alleys
can be enhanced as paseos and
passages to
improve connectivity, and as dining courts
for restaurants.
> Vacant parcels in neighborhoods can
be good locations for temporary
pocket parks, community gardens or
public art installations.
> In commercial areas vacant parcels may
be ideal locations for pop-up shops,
outdoor movie or performance spaces,
art festivals and farmer's markets, and
dining and food truck plazas.
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• Enhance streets to double as venues for
street festivals and community events. The
connected network of Downtown streets enables
segments to be closed for special community
events, and their design should anticipate and
support such flexible use:
> Side streets and cross streets in particular may
be simpler to close on a regular basis than
Sierra;
> Seville, Spring and Nuevo abut the planned Civic
Park and should be designed with special events in
mind;
A weekend farmers market along a city
street
A passageway between retail buildings
connects pedestrians to convenient parking.

Conceptual illustration for activating alleys, paseos, and midblock crossings in the Downtown Core.

Alleys and paseos in Pasadena, California
show how mid-block passageways can be
become active places with potential for new
addresses and businesses.

NUEVO
SIERRA

WHEELER
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Sierra Avenue Transformation
Proposed Improvements (Orange Way to Seville St)
Proposed improvements on Sierra Ave include adding parking lane planters and canopy trees, mid-block crossings, and street furnishings calm traffic, support businesses, and provide a comfortable pedestrian environment.

Context
Sierra Avenue is the primary north/south artery of Fontana and the historic main street of the Downtown. Despite its relatively high traffic volume—a valuable asset for any commercial district—the Downtown has struggled to attract and retain the types of businesses that could help make downtown a significant regional— or even local— destination. Key strategies for success include refreshing its appearance, improving pedestrian safety and comfort, and reducing vehicular speeds—and hence levels of noise and hazard—without decreasing vehicular capacity.

Sierra Ave - Proposed Transformation Sierra Ave - Existing Condition 30 Fontana General PlanSIERRA
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Sierra Pedestrian Plaza
Proposed Improvements (Sierra Ave, Nuevo Ave & Wheeler Ave) Context & Strategy
Reconfigure Sierra Ave, Nuevo Ave
and Wheeler Ave north of Orange Ave
and south of Arrow Blvd: One goal of
the Downtown is to create an attractive
destination for Fontana. To facilitate
this, a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Ave
north of Orange Way and south of
Arrow Blvd is planned. The plaza will
act as a centerpiece of the Downtown
with attractive architecture and
attractive pedestrian amenities:

Specific recommendations include
• Creating a pedestrian plaza north of
Orange Way and south of Arrow
Blvd and redirect automobile traffic
to Wheeler Ave and Nuevo Ave.
• Include pedestrian amenities such
as outdoor furniture, ample
landscaping, shade and vast
walking paths.
• Create multi-modal access to the plaza by
implementing bike lanes, pedestrian
connections and encouraging
“alternative” transportation modes that
may include , shared vehicle options,
rollerblading electric bikes and scooters.
• Create attractive and active spaces
through emphasis of arts. This includes
using land markers such as monuments
and gateway signs. Active public spaces
include modern and interactive art.
• Create a local and regional destination
by creating an active public space as
described above with attractive
commercial development such as
restaurants, amusement spaces
(arcades and gaming), antique shops
and art studios.

An overhead look at a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Ave.

A pedestrian plaza with amenities.

Residents taking photos with the monuments.
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.44
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Transformation
The following actions are recommended to transform and
improve the appearance and performance of Sierra Avenue within the Downtown Core:
• Add broad-canopy street trees: Adding broadcanopy trees within the curb-side parking lanes to visually narrow the street, and help shelter
pedestrians from the sun, wind and traffic.

Specific recommendations include:
i. Replace existing palms and shrubs in center
median with broad canopy trees and low
water use native and adaptive plantings.
ii. Remove the Queen Palms from sidewalk
planters - maintaining the taller Mexican Fan
Palms - and fill in the sidewalk to provide
additional sidewalk space for furniture and
café dining.
iii. Add new parking-lane planters with broadcanopy trees every two parking spaces to visually narrow the street, calm traffic, and
provide shade for the sidewalk and parked
cars.
• Provide comfortable street furniture: Including
benches, trash receptacles and bicycle parking:
• Provide improved street lighting: Whether through
replacement of fixtures or installing new lights of
LEDs, improve the quantity and quality of nighttime
lighting.
• Allow parklets: Because the sidewalks on Sierra
are not very wide for a downtown, businesses may
elect to give up a curbside parking space in front of
their shop in exchange for a new parklet that
expands sidewalk space for outdoor dining.
• Provide mid-block crossings: On blocks longer than
300'—at or near mid-block, add paseos and alleys—
to encourage visitors to "shop both sides."
Parking-lane-planters provide shade and
wind protection for the sidewalk and parked
cars, and free up additional sidewalk space
for sidewalk dining and street furnishings.

Parklets provide new "temporary" space to
the sidewalk for outdoor dining, or street
furnishings.

Street Furniture - including benches,
bicycle parking, trash receptacles, bus
shelters - contribute to a safe, comfortable
pedestrian (and retail) environment.
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.45
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 31
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.46
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Arrow Blvd Transformation
Proposed Improvements (Juniper Ave to Wheeler Ave)
Proposed improvements on Arrow Blvd include a "parking median" for everyday angled parking street fair tents and booths, Class II buffered bike lanes, parking lane tree planters, and corner curb extensions and crosswalks.

Context
Arrow Boulevard was historically Fontana's "second main street", but has suffered from significant loss of buildings and businesses.

Unlike Sierra Avenue, Arrow Boulevard requires only a single vehicular lane in each direction, since it no longer carries the traffic volumes for which it was designed. This frees up a significant amount of the existing right of way for more parking and better pedestrian and bike facilities. This will make Arrow a calmer, shadier environment to help attract new
Arrow Blvd - Existing Condition
Sierra Ave - Proposed Transformation
businesses and infill development and customers to the Downtown Core, adjacent to and visible from but not right on the busier Sierra Avenue Corridor.

JUNIPERROSENABENNETT
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.47
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
32 Fontana General Plan

NUEVSIERRWHE
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.48
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Transformation
The following actions are recommended to transform and
improve the appearance and performance of Arrow Boulevard within the Downtown Core:
• "Ramblas" median parking: A wide enlarged
hardscaped median—paved with pervious
pavement—provides diagonal parking in both
directions, shaded by regularly spaced canopy trees.
• Add tall palms: Similar to those on Sierra to help
define the space of the very wide street and provide it with a visible presence.
• Add parking lane tree planters: These will visually
narrow the wide space of the street and generate a
double row of trees that provide shade for pedestrians
and parked cars.
• Add buffered bike lanes: Class II bicycle lanes are to be provide along Arrow Boulevard and Juniper Avenue
to contribute to the City's bicycle network. Sierra is too narrow and too busy for good bike lanes, so other
parallel streets may be further prioritized for bike
traffic.
• Provide improved street lighting: Along the
sidewalks and within the new central "ramblas" area,
provide pedestrian-scale street lights providing bright, clear light for a safe and comfortable pedestrian
environment.

A new, flexible median "ramblas" provides
convenient customer parking most of the
time, and a central area for staging street
fairs and special events.

New bike lanes on Arrow can be extended
to through the Eastside and Westside
neighborhoods, potentially all the way to
Rancho Cucamonga and downtown Rialto.

Near-term change could include adding trees, bike lanes and street lighting.

Street Furniture—including benches,
bicycle parking, trash receptacles, bus
shelters—contribute to a safe, comfortable
pedestrian (and retail) environment.
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.49
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 33
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.50
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Nuevo Avenue Transformation
Proposed Improvements (Spring St to Valencia Ave)
Proposed improvements on Nuevo Ave include restriping the angled parking, adding parking lane planters and canopy trees, and adding parklets, street furnishing And lighting to transform the street into a comfortable "space" for future "Restaurant Row"
Context
Like Arrow Boulevard, Nuevo Street offers retail and restaurant addresses in the Downtown Core without the high traffic volumes that characterize Sierra Avenue. By extending a high quality pedestrian environment "around the corner" from those two major streets, Nuevo has significant potential to provide the "restaurant row" that the community identified as a top priority for enlivening the Downtown (See also pg.50) . Additionally, Nuevo Street connects to the Metrolink Station to the south, to the new Civic Park at the north and potentially on through to Foothill Boulevard.

Sierra Ave - Proposed Transformation Nuevo Ave - Existing Condition 34 Fontana General Plan
NUEVO
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.51
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Transformation
The following actions are recommended to transform and
improve the appearance and performance of Nuevo Street
within the Downtown Core:
• Restripe parking: Nuevo Street is already striped with angled parking from Valencia Street to Spring Street,
and is wide enough to allow the sidewalks to be
widened by about five feet. To avoid the cost of that, a near-term strategy
of adding curb stops and planting trees and inserting
parklets between the parking and the existing curb is
recommended.
• Provide comfortable street furniture: Including
benches, trash receptacles and bicycle parking;
• Allow parklets: Parklets—whether part of a near—
term City-sponsored street scape improvement, or
constructed by property owners over time - have the
potential to provide widened sidewalk areas with or
without losing parking spaces.
• Provide improved street lighting: Within the
existing sidewalks and/or within the space between the
parking and the sidewalk, provide pedestrian-scale
street lights providing bright, clear light for a safe and comfortable pedestrian environment.

Parking-lane-planters provide shade and
wind protection for the sidewalk and parked
cars, and free up additional sidewalk space
for sidewalk dining and street furnishings.

Parklets provide new "temporary" space to
the sidewalk for outdoor dining, or street
furnishings.

Near-term change could include new street trees, planters and/or parklets Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 35
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.52
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Seville Street Transformation
Proposed Improvements (Nuevo to Wheeler)
With relatively minor reconstruction, the south side of Seville Street (PET Park) could be reconfigured to add headin parking along the length of the park. The existing gutter of the street could remain intact, with decomposed granite or pervious paving finishing the new parking spaces, and shade trees added in planters every 4-5 spaces.

Context & Strategy
Just as the transformations on Arrow Blvd (see also pg. 46) could provide new on-street parking at the south of Fontana's retail core, Seville could be reconfigured along the PET Park as a low-cost way to contribute
a significant amount of new parking (up to 120 new spaces) to the north end of the retail core.

Existing Condition along Seville St with
landscape berms and rows of citrus trees.

Seville reconfigured as a Downtown parking street with pervious parking stalls "cut into" the PET Park, bookended roundabouts at Wheeler (existing) and Nuevo (new). 36 Fontana General Plan NUEVO
SIERRA

WHEELER
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.53
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Transformation
Specific recommendations for transforming Seville Ave into a Downtown parking street and attractive edge to the PE Trail Park include:
• Parking edge: One relatively inexpensive way for the City to gain additional parking in the downtown, could be to "cut" new head-in parking stalls into the north edge of PET Park along Seville St, providing upwards of 100 new spaces
between Juniper Ave and Wheeler Ave. This could be
designed as a beautiful, soft "edge" to the park - with shade trees inserted between parking spaces at regular intervals to create parking "bays" of three to five spaces each. These new parking bays could be finished with a pervious material such as decomposed granite (DG) or pervious pavement.

Roundabout at
Nuevo to "bookend" the downtown portion of Seville from the "neighborhood portion."
• New Roundabout at Nuevo And Seville: Mirroring the
roundabout at the corner of Wheeler And Seville, a new
roundabout at Nuevo And Seville would "bookend" this
transformed "parking street", and provide a natural
transition along Seville from a Neighborhood Street west of Nuevo to this more formal civic space in the downtown.

Broad-canopy trees will provide shade
for parked cars, and a variety of pervious
materials can be used for parking spaces.

Soft parking edge could be finished with
decomposed granite.

Additional improvements are anticipated for the PET Park itself, activating it with a variety of new uses and activities in support of downtown (See Goal #3 - An Activity-Rich Downtown).

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 37
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.54
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Spring Street Improvements
Proposed Improvements (Juniper to Sierra)
Spring Street reconfigured to increase on-street parking with diagonal parking added along one side (alternating sides).

Spring Street could be restriped to include
angled parking on one side to increase the
overall parking supply downtown.

Diagonal parking on a retail street
Context & Strategy
Reconfigure Spring Street to increase parking and
calm traffic: Spring St is an oversized, underutilized street spanning two-blocks in the center of the downtown. With relatively minor interventions, its wide curb-to-curb (50ft) dimension could be reconfigured
to accommodate diagonal parking on one side—which could alternate from one side of the street to the other based on adjacent uses—and parallel on the other, to calm traffic, increase the downtown parking supply, and transform Spring into a valuable address downtown.

Specific recommendations include:
• Orient the diagonal parking to the side of the street that would benefit the most from it. This would in effect, create a "meandering" street which would further calm traffic. • Add street trees in parking lane planters to provide shade and wind protection to the sidewalk and parked cars, calm traffic by visually narrowing
the street, and maintain a wide sidewalk for comfortable pedestrian circulation on both sides of the street.
38 Fontana General Plan JUNIPER

NUEVOSIERRA
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.55
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
North Downtown Gateway
Proposed Improvements (Sierra & Seville)
Context & Strategy
Reconfigure Create a north
Gateway (Plaza) to the Downtown
Core: As the City begins to accomplish the
sorts of transformative improvements
described for the Pacific Electric Trail Park
above, the intersection of Sierra Ave and
Seville Street will become a natural
northern "gateway" into the downtown. In
its current form, all four corners are already
nicely-landscaped open spaces, three of
which are framed by nice buildings, and the
fourth corner (the southwest corner)
adjacent a City-owned opportunity site for
future development. As such, with relatively
minor improvements,
this space could be formalized slightly to
become a Gateway Plaza— announcing
entry into "downtown".

Specific recommendations include:

The intersection of Seville and Sierra is a natural north gateway to the downtown retail core.
• Add bulb-outs into the corners to reduce pedestrian
crossing distance and enclose the gateway plaza.
• Enclose the existing fountains on the east corners of Sierra And Seville with vertical elements such as trellises and shade trees.
• Add shade trees to provide wind and shade protection, and to better define the plaza space.
• Add branding and signage to the plaza to welcome
visitors to the downtown. This could include signage
elements that span Sierra Avenue.

The intersection of Seville and Sierra
Gateway Signage
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 39 SIERRA
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.56
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Goal 2: Buildings Shape the Public Realm

Most downtown streets should be defined
by a consistent street wall of buildings
built at or near the frontage line one to
four stories in height with commercial
shopfronts or other active uses lining the
ground floor
• Varied massing. While built in a steady
row in plan, buildings are expected to
vary in height and profile, with varied
architecture and restrained, town-scale
massing.
• Varied architecture. Creativity
should be encouraged; mixing
traditional and contemporary
architectural styles that complement
Fontana's historic building stock.

Downtown buildings engaging and framing the
street
A consistent street wall created by adjacent
buildings
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.57
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
•
40 Fontana General Plan
Varied massing and architecture in a downtown
A live-work building with ground-floor retail
creates transitional frontage between a
downtown and traditional neighborhood.
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.58
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Building Frontages
• Human scale frontages. The design
of building frontages is critical to
shaping the public realm, welcoming
pedestrians to each building, and
providing an attractive and comfortable
"pedestrian seam" stitching private
buildings to public streets. Downtown
Frontages include:
> Commercial frontages provide clear
entrances with large, transparent,
shaded shopfront windows, ample
lighting, and convenient parking to
display merchandise and welcome
customers.
> Residential frontages include stoops,
porches, terraces, yards, dooryards and
entry courts that welcome visitors while
also providing a degree of frontages
provide additional privacy to groundfloor residential units without blocking the "eyes on the street" that each
dwelling provides to keep the street a
safe and comfortable environment.
> Transitional/flexible frontages —
such as dooryards within shallow
frontage setbacks — can provide "user
adaptable" spaces in which landscape
can provide enough privacy ground
floor housing or hardscape can support
a small ground floor business.
> Non-street frontages — such as
garden courts, forecourts, side courts —
provide additional internal frontage
and semi- private spaces. Such nonstreet frontages may be valuable space for dining, gathering or other uses
related to a given site.

Commercial frontages with floor-to-ceiling windows,
awnings, and comfortable landscaping welcome customers.

Raised stoops create welcoming frontages and maintain
privacy for downtown residents.

A sidecourt provides additional non-street frontage on a site, allowing for new uses.

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 41
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.59
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Facade Improvements and Signage
Outdated buildings and shopfronts can be transformed
with relatively simple facade improvements, including:
• Windows that are transparent to give
pedestrians a view into the shop, restaurant or
art gallery;
• Awnings, canopies, galleries or arcades that
provide shade and rain protection, and cut the
glare on shopfront windows so customers can
see in;
• Signage expressing the personality of the business
and scaled for the pedestrian visibility.
• Lighting that highlights merchandise and signage,
and casts light onto adjacent sidewalks;
• New smooth stucco and new paint - or
other appropriate refinishing - to refresh
the facade.

Transparent, well-lit commercial facade
Commercial shopfronts that engage the
street.

A tilt-up warehouse transformed into an open shopfront and dining court - Golden Road Brewery, Los Angeles.

Simple but elegant lighting, landscaping
and window treatments reuse this storefont
into a valuable place - Solana Beach, CA.
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.60
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
42 Fontana General Plan
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.61
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Example of sidewalk signs that engage the
pedestrian in a walkable downtown core setting.

Projecting signs area scaled and often use high
contrast to be legible from the sidewalk and from afar.

Wall and window signs may be integrated into
downtown shopfronts on display windows, doors or
within the transom area (as shown).

Example of projecting letters mounted on a shopfront
to enhance architectural archway and arcade.

Example of corridor signage, scaled and designed with
contrasting colors to appeal to passing motorists.
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.62
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 43
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.63
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Downtown infill can come in a variety of forms and
intensities, based on market demand
Infill Development
As Downtown begins to evolve
into an activity and amenity rich
destination, demand for quality
office, retail, and residential
space will begin to overtake the
existing building stock. There
are numerous vacant and
underutilized parcels
downtown that could be
opportunity sites for infill
development, which can come
in a variety of forms:

Illustration of how corner infill buildings can
complete the downtown urban pattern.

Corner mixed-use buildings with open pedestrianoriented frontages • Corner Inftll: There are a number of
opportunities to infill corner conditions in
the Downtown. For example, at the
intersection of Sierra and Arrow there are
four lots that are currently used for
parking, infill buildings could be located.
• Small-Scale Inftll: Small scale infill
buildings that fit on available parcels
throughout Downtown can be vital
components to increasing the mix of use in
the Downtown.

Retail, commercial, and office uses can all
fit in such small scale infill buildings as
well as residential opportunities such as
townhomes and rowhouses.
• Large-Scale Infill: Within the
Downtown, there are several locations—
especially west of Sierra—with a number of
adjacent parcels that are largely
underutilized. Many of these lots consists
of older commercial and tilt-up industrial
buildings or unused parking lots. In
these instances—and as properties
turnover— the City will explore
opportunities for property owners to extract
the maximum value for their properties, and
consider new infill building types that
contribute to the community's vision for a
revitalized Downtown.
44 Fontana General Plan
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.64
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Example of block consolidation with a infill
development of a new hotel, including the adaptive
re-use of an existing warehouse.
• Mixed-use buildings that bring
residents into Downtown. Traditional
mixed-use buildings, with
commercial/retail ground floors and
housing on upper floors, will provide
housing options not yet available in
Fontana can attract new residents who
want a downtown urban lifestyle.
• New housing options to expand the
market. New housing options can be
offered to property owners and
developers, allowing them to provide a
range of for-sale, rental,
market-rate, affordable and live-work units
that appeal to a broad range of household
sizes, ages, income levels and life stages to
respond to and expand current and future
market demand.

Larger-scale infill such as a new hotel could potentially infill the corner of Juniper and Arrow and provide a new hospitality sector to Downtown.

A live-work building with ground-floor retail creates
transitional frontage between a downtown and
traditional neighborhood.

Sample infill rowhouses provide attached single-family housing Attached single-family housing on a shared courtyard

JUNIPER
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.65
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 45
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City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.66
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Coordinating Improvements
At the outset of the ambitious enterprise of rebuilding Downtown Fontana, it will be critically important that each new private sector investment of time and money be aimed at improvements that are consistent with the vision for Downtown, that are coordinated with early public improvements, and that provide good value for the investment. The following strategies are recommended.

Simple facade, landscaping and
lighting improvements to existing
buildings can greatly help catalyze
redevelopment.

Generating activity, not buildings, is the key
to rejuvenating a downtown - activities can
range from art walks, food truck courts, and
regular public events.

1. Start Simply
Small improvements to existing buildings, carefully
done, will do more to convey a change in the
Downtown than larger scale improvements that are
delayed several years or done halfway. A beautiful
new sign or a new paint job on an old building, lovely
new furniture and lights for new dining patios will be
the green shoots of new Downtown.

1.Activity First
Many downtown revitalization efforts focus first on
attracting developers to construct new buildings. That
will be an important aspect of the overall improvement
of Downtown Fontana, but buildings are just
containers for interesting activities. New downtown
zoning will reduce the regulatory hurdles to starting or expanding a business in and existing building, or
constructing a new building. Standards for establishing new businesses on vacant properties using temporary
structures such as trailers, shipping containers or food trucks are included in new downtown development
regulations. If businesses and the customer base
succeeds and grows, the financing required for more
ambitious capital improvements will follow.

Additionally, efforts to revitalize the Downtown
include the renovation of Center Stage to the new Stage Red, which will create a major attraction that will
activate the Civic Core.
46 Fontana General Plan
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.67
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023

3. Focus
Between now and when Downtown is “finished”
will be thousands of feet of streetscape and
frontage improvements, and dozens or hundreds
of new businesses. But in the first few years, it is
likely that only handful of new businesses –
likely restaurants – one or two blocks of street
improvements, and possibly one or two new
buildings will show up. If much or most of these
near-term improvements can be clustered in one
area, they will clearly signal a transformation of
the place rather as one-at-a-time “projects”. It is
recommended that City efforts and resources be
targeted in this way – in close consultation with
the Downtown business and property owner
community – rather than spread around.

Clustering near term improvements in one area
will clearly signal a transformation of the place.

5.Work Together
Perhaps the most important piece, is that Downtown
businesses and property owners, the City of Fontana,
and all others with a love for Downtown, work
together creatively, resourcefully and proactively to
kick-start the desired transformation.

Prioritize pedestrian-scaled frontages that
engage the sidewalk and public realm.

Focus development and investment in
strategic locations to create synergistic
uses and redevelopment.

Be flexible to property owners and
developers whose vision matches that of
the Downtown Area Plan.
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City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.68
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 47
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City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.69
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Enable a variety of activities
to attract new visitors.

Activities should be available throughout
the day and night.

Goal 3: An Activity-Rich Downtown

1. All types of activities: Downtown
has historically been Fontana’s primary
center for civic life, family recreation,
education, employment, cultural activities,
and local commerce, and through the
Fontana Forward process the strong desire
for Downtown to regain that status
emerged over and over. By offering
activities of many types the Downtown
will attract new visitors and regular
customers more often, and sustain their
interest longer.

2.All types of customers: A central strategy of
any successful destination - whether a shopping mall,
resort, or downtown - is to broaden the customer base
by offering a diverse array of choices targeted to
different customer types. Specific customer types that
were mentioned repeatedly in Fontana Forward
workshops included families, young people, senior
citizens, and visitors to the Auto Club Speedway and
Kaiser Medical Center and other nearby destinations.

The recommended mix of indoor and outdoor dining
choices, unique local retail shops, indoor and outdoor
family entertainment, arts and cultural offerings, and
regularly scheduled special events are intended to
appeal to all these customer types.

3.All times of day and evening
The cliche for less than successful downtowns is that
they, “roll up the sidewalks before dinner time,” and the vision for Downtown Fontana is that things are just
getting going at dinner time. Of course the daytime is
expected to be busy too, with breakfast and lunch
restaurants, a range of retail shops, art galleries and service businesses, but Fontana’s long, warm evenings
much of the year are ideal for indoor/ outdoor dining,
entertainment and window shopping late
48 Fontana General Plan
Activities and spaces should appear to a
diverse range of ages and interests.
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into the evening. A growing residential population
in surrounding neighborhoods and within the
downtown will be an important factor in giving
Downtown a “live- in” feel that feels safer and more
comfortable that a commercial-only district.

4. Indoor & Outdoor Many great downtowns
thrive in spite of inclement weather much of the year,
by generating enclosure and shelter for their
inhabitants through the design of public streetscapes
and private buildings. Although Fontana’s climate can
be quite hot in the summer, at times chilly in the
winter, and windy much of the year, these are factors
quite easily mitigated by the types of spatial enclosure, shading and wind-breaking envisioned and
recommended by this Plan. The general lack of rainfall
and long warm evenings can be leveraged to make the
sort of comfortable indoor/outdoor environment that
has made many of California’s desert cities (Palm
Springs and Palm Desert in particular) into regional
and even international visitor destinations. Fontana
can do this in its own, unique way.

Sidewalks should support outdoor dining
and other activities where appropriate.

5.Constantly evolving: The most
successful downtowns offer a changing menu
of choices for visitors, to keep regulars
coming back and new customers showing up.

The natural evolution of local businesses
responding to market forces provides such
variety, as do changing shows
in the visual and performing arts and menu
rotations by local restaurants. Special events
provide a great opportunity for bringing
new activities to the Downtown, some of
which may spin off permanent businesses
while others draw weekly, monthly or
seasonal visitors who are then exposed to the
other permanent offerings. A cooperative
management and promotional organization -
as recommended in Section - can provide a
key role in organizing and promoting the
changing and expanding activities of
Downtown Fontana.

Indoor/outdoor spaces woven into streetscapes
and buildings provide added value to the
Downtown.

Sunset on Sierra 2016 brought residents and visitors
to explore Downtown and experience conceptual
improvements to streetscape and core District.
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Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 49
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"Restaurant Row"
Proposed Steps to Creating a Downtown Restaurant District Restaurants activate the public realm by creating social atmosphere, attracting pedestrian traffic to retail areas.

Nuevo Street and the Intersection of
Nuevo and Spring Street, present an
opportunity to develop a food hub of
'Restaurant Row.'
Context
During the stakeholder interviews and Community Workshops, a number of residents expressed that having more dining options in the Downtown should be a top priority for attracting more visitors. Out of that suggestion came the vision of creating a "Restaurant Row" - a concentration of local restaurants located in one location downtown that could create a significant new dining destination, for the area. The hub of Nuevo Ave, and Spring St -- due to a concentration of vacant lots/Cityowned lots, a close proximity to Sierra Ave, Lewis Library, and the PE Trail, and an abundance of available nearby parking -- could be an ideal location to pursue this initiative.

This food hub could start out informally as specific
food "events", such as regular food trucks nights,
where local food trucks could gather at a coordinated
location, or a farmers market featuring a concentration of local food vendors. These could be combined with
other events such as outdoor cinema, a car show, or a
street festival like Sunset on Sierra, to begin to create energy and establish this area as a food &
entertainment district. Over time, this area could
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SIERRA
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evolve to attract permanent restaurants from local
entrepreneurs offering a variety of price points and
food types, helping transform Downtown into an "18-
hour-per-day" destination.

Strategies & Actions
Achieving this vision will require a concentrated and
coordinated effort, including:
• Start Small: Start with a monthly food night, and
brand it, to bring local entrepreneurs downtown.

Time the food night in conjunction with other
festivals or events, such as the Sunset on Sierra street festival, or outdoor cinema nights.
• Public Realm Improvements: Focus near-term public
realm improvements on this area, including; street
trees and other shade elements, street furniture,
attractive landscaping, and clean lighting. An
improved and maintained public realm will attract
private investors to open new businesses.
• Parking Holiday: As additional parking on city streets can be added through restriping and reconfiguring
street lanes, temporarily waive or heavily reduce on
site parking requirements for new food establishments
in this area to ease the initial cost of starting.
• Encourage Outdoor Dining: Allow vacant lots, paseos,
and public sidewalks to be used for outdoor dining.

Allow parklets in public rights-of-way.
• Farm to Fork: Promote relationships between local
farmers and local restaurants. Allow and supporting
urban farming ventures that could utilize vacant and
underutilized downtown parcels (including the PE
Trail Park), for truly local food experiences.
• Spread the word: Establish a clear brand for
Restaurant Row, and market it regionally to attract
new customers to Downtown.

Food Truck night in a temporarily closed
parking lot
Sidewalk dining is an effective way to
enliven a street.

Restaurants activate the public realm by
creating vibe and attract pedestrian traffic
to retail areas.

Urban agriculture can contribute to "Farm
to Fork" strategies in a downtown setting.
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"Sunset Theater"
Strategies for transforming underutilized spaces Downtown Creative design solutions can transform "left-over" / underutilized spaces, such as alleys and parking lots, into extremely valuable multi-functional spaces, such as One Colorado, in Old Town Pasadena.

Context
There are currently a number of largely
underutilized "open-spaces" in the downtown,
whether a vacant lot or parking lot, that with some
creativity and minor improvements, could be
transformed into multi-functional spaces that could
make positive contributions to the urban fabric and
activity of the Downtown.

A good example, and near-term opportunity, is the
largely underutilized City owned parking lot at the
corner of Nuevo Ave and Arrow Blvd. Recommended
Key Plan
improvements on both streets (See pages 34-37) could see this area change dramatically in the future, with an influx of streetscape improvements and new parking.

Additionally, this lot is framed interestingly on two sides by relatively "blank" walls of adjacent buildings, already enclosing this space.

NUEVOSIERRA
Existing parking lot condition at the corner
of the Sierra and Arrow, and back of AT&T
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Arrow, and landscape improvements to the parking lot
itself would be "icing on the cake," making this a much nicer public space in the long term, the idea/event is
viable with or without them, and could get started and
help activate the downtown right away.

Strategies & Actions
Achieving this vision will require a concentrated and
coordinated effort, including:
• Start Small; Start Soon: The City could partner
with a local organization (such as the Center
Theatre) to host a Summer Cinema series.
• Combine Efforts: Coordinate programming with
other downtown events, such as Food nights
(See "Restaurant Row" on pg. 48 42), Farmers
Markets, and Sunset On Sierra, to name a few.
• Spread the Word: Establish a brand (ie. "Sunset
Theater") for the event, and market it locally and
regionally, to help grow its popularity and
reinforce downtown as an active entertainment
district.
• Improve the Space: Whether immediately or over
time, the City could make simple improvements to
the space (see illustration below), that could
transform this simple parking lot into a multifunctional public plaza in the heart of the downtown. In the short term, the City could work
with AT&T to make very simple improvements to
the back of the building -- as simple as re-painting an unobstructed white rectangle on the back wall -- to
improve the projection quality of the movies.

The City could partner with a local
organization like Center Theater, to host a
summer outdoor cinema series.

Combine efforts with other programmed
activities downtown such as food truck
nights, Sunset on Sierra, etc.

Simple improvements made to the City-owned parking lot at the corner of Arrow and Nuevo - such as low landscape walls around the perimeter, improved landscaping, and perhaps some simple lighting, could make this an ideal venue for a summer movie screenings, with movies projected onto the back of the AT&T building, and 1222
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with food trucks lining the perimeter. Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 53 1223
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Civic Park District
Strategies for Activating PET Linear Park
Context
Activate and utilize the Pacific Electric
Trail (PET) park: The Pacific Electric Trail
Park is an amazing amenity/opportunity
for downtown Fontana. The Park was
previously landscaped with a series of
linear "mounds" of earth/sod and groves
of citrus trees, the park has been vastly
underutilized, save Public Works
maintenance. With a series of small, but
well-coordinate interventions, (including
removing some or all of the earth
mounds and citrus trees), this linear park
could be transformed into an organized
series of public spaces, that contribute to
the economic and overall success of the
downtown.

The "Civic Park" District is essentially made up of two streets - Seville Ave And Spring St, a series of public open spaces, and a concentration of civic buildings, including City Hall, the Lewis Library, and the Center Theater.

Activate And Re-utilize PET
Park
Reconfigure Seville And
Spring as Parking Streets (See
Pg XX)
Create a north gateway for the
downtown
Strengthen connection be- tween
Lewis Library and the Downtown
Example of public art on a civic green
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Strategies & Actions
Recommendations for kickstarting the evolution of this
important part of the downtown include:
• Re-Align And activate the Pacific Electric Trail:

Presently, as it goes through downtown, the PE
Trail runs along the back walls/fences of vacant/
underutilized light-industrial uses along Spring
Street, and is perceived to feel unsafe due to a
lack of "eyes on the (trail)". In some cases—
if/when new development comes along Spring
Street and it could provide frontage onto the
park, which could be a beneficial location for a
trail, particularly if new development comes in
the form of restaurants that could have outdoor
patios that open out onto the trail. However, in
other stretches, it may be preferable for the
alignment of the trail to shift to along the edge of
Seville—particularly as it comes to
the intersections of Juniper and
Sierra— so that users of the trail can
easily cross those streets via the
existing crosswalks.

PE Trail - Existing Condition
SIERRA
Re-aligned PE Trail as it approaches Sierra Ave
(Drawing is conceptual)
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Illustration showing the realignment of the PET to the north edge of the park along the reconfigured "parking edge" of Seville Ave. Improvements to the PET Park proper could accommodate a variety of new activities including outdoor recreation, urban agriculture, etc.

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The PE Trail can be activated with a variety of recreation amenities.

Urban Gardens
Temporary Street Tree Nursery
• Active outdoor recreation: One strategy for activating the park would be to provide facilities and amenities
for outdoor recreation. The City could install, (and/or allow another organization to install/ manage) a variety of facilities, including small soccer fields, sand
volleyball or tennis courts, lawn bowling, horseshoe
pits, etc. In some cases, these facilities could be installed in conjunction with of new development along the
north side of the PET Park on Seville. For example, a
new bar or restaurant could install a sand volleyball
court or horseshoe pits as an amenity for its patrons.
• Urban agriculture: The City could designate some
portion(s) of the park where a range of urban garden/
agricultural uses could be allowed. Some examples could include:
> Urban gardens to support a localized "Restaurant
Row": garden "plats" could be designated to
individual restaurants to grow produce they could
serve to patrons.
> Temporary street tree nursery: In support of the effort to restore the urban tree canopy on a number
Fontana's downtown Streets, a portion of the PET
Park could be used on a near-term basis to grow /
mature the trees that could later be transplanted as
street trees, at a fraction of the cost of buying more
mature street trees at the time of streetscape
reconstruction.
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New Reading Garden
Potential New Library
Entry on Sierra
3 Miller Park
Outdoor Recreation
Facilities
The intersection of Seville and Sierra is a natural north gateway to the Downtown Retail Core.

Lewis Library - main entry fronts Miller Park
Example of a reading garden
• Improve connectivity from Lewis Library to Sierra
Ave and the Pacific Electric Trail: Lewis Library is a
beautiful new civic building that terminates the view east on Spring Street. In its current form, the "Front" of
Lewis library is on the east side, oriented toward the
parking between the library and Miller Park, effectively, facing its back and its
side respectively, toward Sierra Ave and the Pacific Electric Trail. With some creative and bold moves, Lewis Library could play a much more significant role in anchoring and activating the Civic Park area, and help stimulate the
growth of the downtown.

Specific recommendations include:
i. Actively pursue a new entry to the Lewis Library from Sierra Avenue.
ii. Install a new reading garden on the north side of
Lewis Library extending into the Pacific Electric Trail Park. This could be a secured, enclosed outdoor
space, protected from the sun and wind by large
shade trees that could be a comfortable outdoor
space for reading, meditation, picnicking etc., and
could even be rented out or reserved for special
events such as weddings, parties, and the like.

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 57
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WHEELER
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Centralized Downtown Management
Strategies for Managing an Active Downtown
State Street in Santa Barbara is one of the most successful retail main streets in California.

Its continued success is actively managed by the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization.

Context:

The most successful retail centers and visitor
destinations are centrally managed and actively
promoted. From
the 1960s through the 1980s shopping malls gradually
surpassed downtowns as the place to go, the place to
shop, the place to spend time and money. They did this
in large measure by doing a much better job of collective advertising for their tenants, organizing a convenient
shared parking supply, maintaining high levels of
cleanliness and
Shopping malls are actively managed, with
sophisticated branding, maintenance, and
marketing programs.

Downtown districts incorporate wellmanaged branding and marketing programs.
order, attracting merchants that met local demand,
and programming special events and promotional
activities.
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Strategies & Actions
Since the 1990s downtowns throughout California
and around the country have been leveling that
playing field by creating downtown associations of
merchants and
property owners provide comparable levels of
maintenance, management and promotion. Once that
disadvantage is neutralized, their intrinsic advantages – being a real place, with real history, and unique local business rather than
the same old chains – can lift them back up to a
dominant position in the marketplace of places.
• Start and Fund a Downtown Association: A top
level, short term priority for reinvigorating
Downtown Fontana’s economy and revitalizing it as
the place to go will be the creation and funding of
such a Downtown Association. The City of Fontana
has committed to assisting and supporting the
formation of a Downtown Association, but business
owners and property owners who have a vested
interest the Downtown’s success must be active
participants to drive it forward.
> Downtown Manager: The City will assign a staff
member to act as the single point of contact with
downtown property owners, merchants and
potential developers or investors, and to work
with them
in forming an Association. An initial Association
composed of interested volunteers can determine
initial priorities for action, but sustained success
will require a governance structure and funding
stream.
> Business Improvement District (BID): A
Business Improvement District (BID) is probably
the simplest and most common form or
organization for this purpose, and can be funded
by supplemental taxes on businesses and/or
supplemental taxes on
property owners (PBID). This surcharge will fund
the maintenance and operation of the downtown
public realm (streets, alleys, plazas, parking lots) in the same way that Common Area Maintenance
(CAM) fees
do so in shopping malls. That revenue stream then
enables the Association to hire a part or full-time
professional manager, with expertise in cost
effective maintenance procedures, parking
management, stakeholder engagement,
customer satisfaction, and special event
planning and execution.
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The Downtown Berkeley Association, a non-profit
funded by downtown property owners, manages
all public realm and landscaping improvements
to support welcoming and prosperous city center.

Originally designated as a central parking district,
the Lancaster BLVD Association now functions as a
PBID, attracting thousands of visitors annually for
shopping, dining, employment and special events.

The Downtown Providence
Improvement District works side-by-side
with local businesses to provide
ongoing cleaning maintenance, and
information officers.

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Goal 4: Park-Once District

STRATEGIES
An adequate and easy to use supply of customer, visitor and employee parking will be critical to growing existing and new Downtown businesses. The following "park once" strategy is recommended cost effectively meet parking demand, encourage customers to explore the Downtown on foot, and unburden individual property and business owners from providing their own parking.

A shared, managed parking supply.

Parking lots, by nature are designed with efficiently in mind, trying to maximize the amount of spaces they
can supply, however, this does not mean that they
should be exclusively designed for cars. These large
open spaces can be multi-functional, if designed and
detailed creatively, and accommodate a flexible range
of activities, such as community festivals, markets and even outdoor movies.
• Improve on-street parking. The wide streets of
the Downtown represent underutilized public
property. On many streets, simple restriping of
parking, and on specific streets, more elaborate
reconfigurations, can add approximately 300 net new
parking spaces to the downtown supply, within
existing rights of way.

Well-designed streetscapes provide
ample convenient parking, shading and
wind protection for pedestrians
A clearly defined parking and
wayfinding system is a simple way to
increase parking utilization and
walkability in the Downtown
A well-managed public realm that
prioritizes pedestrians with ample parking,
signage, furnishings and design elements.
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User-friendly parking strategies in the Downtown range from improving wayfinding, allowing flexible uses of existing parking areas, restriping and reconfiguring on-street spaces increasing access and usability of existing public lots, identifying shared parking opportunities, and determining future structure locations. • Identify potential shared / multi-use parking
areas. Underutilized and single-use parking lots
should be managed as shared public parking (or for
other uses) after regular hours of use.
• Regulation & Enforcement: Implement time
limitations for prime parking spaces on
downtown streets, and issue overnight permits for
resident parking on neighborhood streets,
ticketing those who do not comply.
• Long-Term Parking Solutions: With the
goal and expectation of continued and long-term
success Downtown, parking demand will grow
over time. In the longer term, this could suggest
the demand for structured parking, and Exhibit
X.5 identifies two potential locations, either of
which could serve the downtown area well.
"Ramblas" parking in a center median
allows a City to recycle portions of wide
right-of-ways to be used for two-way
diagonal parking or optional event space,
while contributing to traffic-calming.

JUNIPER
NUEVO
SIERRA

WHEELER

WHEELER
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Goal 5: Clear Branding And Wayfinding

Establish a Downtown Branding &
Wayfinding System.

Fontana's existing wayfinding program
should evolve as more destinations arrive
downtown.

Example of downtown directory and
wayfinding signage.
downtowns and districts develop specific branding
graphics and logos that can reinforce the
placemaking of a district, and can be used for district marketing. These graphics can be widely used,
incorporated in everything from street furniture to
specific signage elements.
• Market the Downtown Regionally. Creative
Downtown marketing campaigns can allow
merchants and restaurateurs to compete on an
equal footing with shopping centers and other
regional attractions.
• District Maintenance. A well-organized program
of public realm maintenance and management will
ensure that Downtown remains a clean, attractive
place to shop, visit, and do business.
• Evolve the Downtown Wayftnding Program.

As new "destinations" arrive Downtown, the
Downtown Wayfinding Program will need to evolve.

An immediate need is to provide clear wayfinding to
shared parking lots. Wherever possible, wayfinding
elements should incorporate Downtown identity
graphics to reinforce the district.
• Encourage Variety, Creativity, and
Coordination. There are numerous tools,
strategies, and techniques for branding, marketing,
and wayfinding that can be utilized in the
downtown. What is most important is that efforts are
coordinated reinforce the Downtown brand.
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District branding as banners installed on lightposts,
and as placards installed into the sidewalk.

District logo incorporated into street furnishings to
reinforce the branding of the district.

An information kiosk for downtown Baton Rouge. Downtown Wayfinding printed on the sidewalks in Downtown Scottsdale, AZ
Examples of District Gateway Signage Elements
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Getting Started: Downtown Core
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Downtown Business Improvement District: The City
will work with Downtown business and property owners
(collectively “owners”) and other interested parties to for a Business Improvement District (BID) that will
partner with the City in planning and financing the
cooperative management, maintenance and promotion
of the Downtown as a significant regional destination.

City/Owners

2. 1. Code Update/Pink Zone: The City will prepare, adopt and implement updated zoning and design guidance for the
Downtown. This will include permit process streamlining and near-term reduction in “red tape” required to
establish or expand a business that contributes to the
reanimation of the Downtown core as a lively destination.

City

3. Catalytic Restaurant Project: The City will prepare an Request for Proposals (RFP) to select a developer partner for the public/private development of one or more new
restaurants on the vacant lot across Sierra from the Lewis Library and on the existing parking lot to the west. This project might include some portion of the Spring and
Seville Street improvements as well.

City

4. 2. Parking/Wayfinding Signage: The City will prepare a design for a system of branding and wayfinding signage
for the Downtown. The emphasis of this program will be
to help visitors find parking and their destinations,
while build a visual identity for the Downtown as a
unified destination. This program will build on the
existing Civic Center Branding program.

City

3. Management And Maintenance: The Downtown Manager
will efficiently coordinate and oversee downtown projects and address needs overtime. The Downtown Manager
will maintain a relationship between the business owners and Chamber of Commerce, as well as residents and
visitors, with the goal of providing seamless upkeep and improvements of the streets and public realm.

City

5. Façade/Frontage Improvement Program: Working
closely with the BID, the City will initiate a program to provide design and/or construction financing assistance to property owners to improve the architecture, signage and lighting of their facades, and to introduce
appropriate outdoor furnishings and accouterments
along street frontages.

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6. Management And Maintenance: The Downtown Manager
will efficiently coordinate and oversee downtown projects and address needs overtime. The Downtown Manager
will maintain a relationship between the Downtown
Association, business owners and Chamber of Commerce,
as well as residents and visitors, with the goal of providing seamless upkeep and improvements of the streets and
public realm.

City/Owners
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Note: "Owners" refers, collectively, to business owners and property owners.

All actions are anticipated to include collaboration/cooperation between the City, owners, and other interested organizations and individuals.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

7. Sunset Theater Plaza Improvements: The City will fund, design and construct improvements to the existing public parking lot at the northwest corner of Arrow Boulevard and Nuevo Avenue. Improvements should include low walls and tree rows around the perimeter, and small corner entry plaza. Permission from AT&T to make the east wall of their building suitable for projecting movies should be included, and ideally new murals on the blank walls of buildings to the north and east (Bank of America) would occur simultaneously.

City/Owners/Local
Businesses

8.5. Spring and Seville Street Improvements: The City will fund, design and construct streetscape improvements to Spring Street and Seville Street between Sierra Avenue and Juniper Avenue. Improvements will focus on restriping to add parking and improving sidewalks and street tree plantings. Phasing may be dictated by funding constraints, and if so should start at Sierra and move west as funds are available.

City Completed

9. Sierra Avenue Street Improvements: The City – potentially with funding support from the BID – design and construct street improvements on Sierra Avenue, from Orange Street to Arrow Boulevard. Improvements will focus on adding new canopy trees in the median and in new parking lane planters, and on upgrading the level and quality of street lighting. An initial phase of parking/ wayfinding signage should be included as part of this project, if not prior to it.

City

10.6. Pacific Electric Trail Improvements: The City will work with San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG) to redesign the Pacific Electric Trail between Juniper Avenue and the police department roundabout. Recommended elements include but are not limited to community gardens, urban agriculture related to new restaurants, shady park areas for passive recreation, and active recreation facilities such as beach volleyball, fitness courses, or bocce ball and shuffleboard.

City/County

11. Library Plaza: Work with the County to explore the possibility of providing a new entry to the library facing Sierra Avenue, and the improvement of the front yard area as a shady forecourt. A potential outdoor reading area within a secure patio/court on the north side of the library, and improved, shaded sidewalks along the east and south edges of the library should also be explored.

County/City

7. Pedestrian Plaza: The City will create a pedestrian plaza on Sierra Avenue to create a local and regional destination. Recommended features include outdoor dining, bike planes, public activities, art and attractive landscaping. Architecture along the plaza should be attractive and designed to engage with the public space with enhanced entries and amenities.

City
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H
Gateway Corridors
Bringing People Into The Downtown
Foothill Boulevard and Sierra Avenue
are the primary Corridors to
Downtown Fontana, carrying large
volumes of vehicular traffic through
and into the Downtown Core. This
plan adopts the General Plan's "Livable
Corridors Strategy" envisioning future
street improvements and infill
development along Foothill and
Sierra—including new, high-quality
retail and commercial services, offices
and employment, and housing of
various types mixed together—to
provide walkable, human-scale
patterns that further connect the
downtown to adjoining
neighborhoods.

In order for this transformation to
occur, it will be necessary to redesign
and calm segments of Foothill and
Sierra to create attractive streetscapes
that accommodate a variety of uses and
activities, and a mix of pedestrians,
bicycles, cars and public transit within
the Downtown area. This strategy is
organized into the following
high-level goals:

Brand Boulevard in Glendale, California, functions as a Livable Corridor with a diverse mix of uses, intensities and streetscape elements that contribute to an attractive and safe public realm.
66 Fontana General Plan

JUNIPER
MANGO
EXHIBIT X.6 DOWNTOWN CORRIDORS

FOOTHILL
FOOTHILL / ROUTE 66

CORRIDOR
ARROW

DOWNTOWN
CORE

MERRILL
SOUTH
SIERRA

CORRIDOR
Above shows Foothill Boulevard/Route 66 Corridor, and Sierra Avenue. Sierra is the spine of Downtown and the primary corridor for Chaffey College. The design and function of both Foothill and Sierra are critical to funneling visitorsinto the heart of Downtown.
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Goal 1: Foothill Blvd Gateway Leveraging its
high traffic volume as commercial asset, the
segments of Foothill Boulevard approaching
Sierra Avenue in either direction will be
transformed into highly-visible gateways
designed to "funnel" (or "direct") visitors
and into the Downtown Core. Using skillful
urban design and placemaking strategies, and
harkening back to some of the original Route
66 design characteristics, its outdated
commercial highway design and
development patterns of this important node
can be transformed to create a significant
north gateway to Downtown.

Prominent corner buildings should enhance and
announce the arrival into the Downtown Core.

Corridor streetscape improvements will support new
mixed-use developments, access and wayfinding, and
safety for visitors in the Downtown.

Corridor infill of various types and mixed uses should
contribute to a walkable network of blocks and spaces.
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Goal 1: Foothill Blvd Gateway

Actions
Specific actions in support of this transformation
include:
• Maintain Four lanes on foothill: Design and
implement complete streets improvements that
maintain the historic four lane configuration (two
lanes each way) within approximately one mile east
and west of Sierra Avenue, contributing to the more
urban environment of this gateway node.
• Landscape & Streetscape Improvements: Add
landscaped medians in Sierra and Foothill with large
canopy trees to visually narrow / enclose these wide
streets.
• Improve & complete sidewalks: Ensure a
continuous, comfortably-wide sidewalk, buffered
from traffic with landscaped parkways and planters,
and in some cases parked cars, along the corridors.
• Gateway branding & wayfinding elements:

Add a landscaped and tree lined median
along Foothill, to add shade and enclosure,
and contribute to the urban environment of
this gateway node.

Provide comfortably-wide sidewalks,
buffered from traffic by landscaping and
parked cars, to increase commercial activity
and pedestrian comfort and safety.

Modern re-interpretations of Route 66-era
designs incorporated into a commercial district—
Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Goal 2: South Sierra Ave Gateway

STRATEGIES
The Sierra Corridor south of Downtown, is a
high-volume, fast-moving four lane road,
fronted by a patchwork of shopfronts, strip
commercial centers, used car dealerships, and
fast food restaurants, and is anticipated to
change significantly over time. With careful
planning, coordinated infill development and
public realm improvements, this segment can be
a valuable gateway for the Downtown Core,
gradually transitioning the design character and
travel speed of the corridor to those supportive
of a walkable, urban mixed-used environment.

Concept Plan for the South Sierra Gateway (Drawing
is Conceptual)
Chaffey College is located at the intersection of
Merrill and Sierra, with plans for its expansion
along west side of Sierra, including the
possibility of commercial, housing and mixeduse infill development in the near to mid-term future— that would be within easy walking
distance of Metrolink and Downtown.

As such, this segment of Sierra is envisioned
as a hub for education and job creation,
prioritizing new infill and business
development that supports the growth of the
college, young professionals and other
employment-related uses. Sample uses
include student housing, mixed-use
commercial and retail, R&D, live- work,
multi-tenant and start-up business incubator
spaces. Altogether, these uses will coalesce as
the south anchor of Downtown, driving new
customers and economic growth into the
Downtown Core.

The transformed South Sierra Corridor will be
characterized by wider, more shaded sidewalks,
steady flows of moderate-speed traffic,
convenient customer parking, varied shopfronts
and attractive residences in support of the
college and Downtown. Sierra and Merrill will
serve as the face of the college, with convenient
pedestrian entrances, new bus stops and bicycle
routes that strengthen connections between the
college, Metrolink station, the Downtown Core
and surrounding neighborhoods.
70 Fontana General Plan
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Actions
Specific actions in support of this transformation include:
• Public Realm Improvements: Add large-canopy
street trees, enhanced landscaping and lighting, and
comfortable street furniture that calm traffic, that
improve pedestrian and bicycle safety and comfort,
and calm traffic as it approaches the Downtown
Core.
• Infill Development: Incentivize quality new
corridor- fronting infill development (housing and
commercial) in vacant and underutilized parcels
along Sierra.
• Gateway branding & wayfinding elements:

Add branding and wayfinding elements that signal
arrival to Downtown. Santa Fe Park, highly visible
after traveling over the railroad tracks just south of
Orange Way, could be modified with landscape
improvements and branding and gateway elements
to become a formal gateway into the Downtown
Core.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle amenities: Prioritize
bicycle parking, car-sharing and bike-sharing
services, sheltered bus stops, widened sidewalks,
and mid-block pedestrian crossings in the segments
from Chaffey College to Downtown, in support of
increased student/ pedestrian activity.
• Market "mode-shift" alternatives in
support of Downtown: Identify strategies,
branding, and incentives that will influence
"mode-shift" away from passenger vehicles and
encourage greater use of Metrolink, Omnitrans,
local public transit, pedestrian and bicycle
routes to bring new customers to Downtown.

Modern transit facilities with comfortable
amenities encourage greater use.

Bicycle facilities in the South Sierra Corridor may include shared-lane "sharrows" (left) along segments of Sierra with limited right of way (ROW). Public frontages (right) may also incorporate bicycle parking / sharing. Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 71
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Goal 3: Corridor Infill

Adopting the General Plan's Livable
Corridors Strategy, all new corridorinfill should be coordinated -- prioritizing intensity and at key
gateway nodes (See Goals 1 & 2) -- and
predominantly street- fronting,
providing pedestrian access from the
street/sidewalk to contribute
to the walkable network of blocks
New corridor zoning will allow a full spectrum of market-driven (corridor-appropriate) development types in a range of scales, characters, and uses.
streets, and open spaces in and
around Downtown.
(Drawing is Conceptual) Example infill development opportunities along Foothill Boulevard and at the Foothill/Sierra Gateway SIERRA NUEVO NUEVO CYPRESS JUNIPER 1252
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Ex
servi
Strategies & Actions
Specific strategies and actions include:
• Zone for Mixed-Use Corridors: Update
zoning along Downtown corridors to allow
a full spectrum of market-driven
development types where building form,
location, and frontage is regulated—rather
than building use—to generate active and
attractive downtown corridors that
accommodate a range of uses, services, and
activities.
• Subdivide Large Downtown Blocks:

Where possible and practical, subdivide
large blocks to provide additional
connectivity between corridors and adjacent
neighborhoods, as well as unlock new
development potential on underutilized
land in and around the downtown.
• Prioritize Street-Fronting Inftll: New
infill development should be located close
to the street/sidewalk, contributing to a
consistent urban pattern along the corridors.

A wide range of styles characters and uses can be
appropriate along the corridors.

Conceptual infill along Foothill, adding new mid-block
connectivity, and locating new buildings close to the
street with parking located at the back and/or side.

Typical corridor commercial block pattern —
buildings separated by drives and surface parking
lots
ample of mid-block, neighborhoodng commercial infill terminating a jog in the street as illustrated above
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 73
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JUNIPER
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• Prioritize New Development and
Improvements at Gateways:

Prioritize/ concentrate building intensity
(taller and closer to the street) and focused
public realm improvements, on corridor
segments approaching gateway nodes (i.e.
the intersection of Foothill and Sierra). As
the corridor gradually becomes more
urban approaching Downtown, it will
signal to drivers that they are arriving to a
significant "place."
• Require "Corridor-Appropriate"
Housing Types: Balance the goal of street
fronting infill development along the corridors
with the need for additional privacy for
residential units due to the higher traffic
volumes and speeds along the corridors. While
direct visitor access from the street/sidewalk
should be required, residential units can be
arranged around semi-private courts, open
spaces (that could be secured with gates), and
dooryards—or can be accessed internally
via an entry lobby—that open(s) to the
street/ sidewalk.
• Improve the Public Realm: Wherever
possible/ practical, take measures to include
public realm improvements -- comfortablywide sidewalks, shaded by canopy trees, with appropriate street furnishings (benches, bike
racks, trash receptacles, etc...) and buffered
from traffic by well-landscaped planters, and
on-street parking (where applicable) -- as part
of new development agreements. This should
done carefully, and be balanced with the goal
of streamlining the development process for
potential investors in the Downtown.

FOOTHILL
Prominent new buildings at the intersection of
Foothill & Sierra help define this gateway.

New multi-family residential buildings fronting
the street with paseos and walks providing
visitor access from the street to apartments, and
resident parking at the rear of the complex.

Courtyard buildings along Sierra create a semi
public space and buffer residences from the
main living area apartments.
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Gateway corner buildings create a Prominent mixed-use residential building with an active ground-floor that engages the public
realm
Example of a multifamily alley-accessed building provides semi-private courtyards and creates a buffer between
residents and the adjacent corridor.

Multifamily housing calibrated to students and young
professionals may be considered near Chaffey College and the Metrolink Station Area.

Townhomes above ground-floor retail along a
major corridor
Corridor buildings should integrate public realm
improvements such as widened sidewalks, canopy
trees, street furnishings and related amenities.
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Getting Started: Gateway Corridors
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Gateway Signage: The City will prepare a comprehensive graphics program for Downtown branding, identity and
wayfinding, including gateway landmarks and directional signage on Foothill Boulevard, Arrow Boulevard and
Sierra Avenue, directing and welcoming visitors to
Downtown. Gateway signage will be implemented as
funding is available, in coordination with streetscape
improvements.

City

3. Foothill Boulevard Improvements: The City will
prepare a Foothill Boulevard master plan that
includes a new four-lane Downtown Gateway
segment with enhanced pedestrian facilities and
landscape, extending approximately one mile east
and west of Sierra Avenue. Improvements will be
implemented through catalytic public investments as
funds are available and by developers as projects
occur.

City

City/Omnitrans

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I
"In-Town" Neighborhoods
Enhancing Neighborhoods Near Downtown
Concurrent with new activities, infill
and economic investment in
Downtown, will be an increased
demand for new housing, in a variety
of forms, conveniently located within a
walkable and bikable distance to
Downtown. While the original
neighborhoods to the east of
Downtown are well established, with
little near-term change anticipated, the
large blocks west of Downtown -- in
particular those just west of Juniper
Ave, south of Foothill
Blvd—contain many large, vacant or
underutilized parcels that a prime
locations for well-organized,
neighborhood
infill housing, in a variety of intensities, forms, and configurations, based on market-demand and best neighborhood-planning practices, as described more fully in this Section. Further, mixed use developments combining commercial and residential land uses are to be encouraged in the Downtown.

A key opportunity of this plan is to ensure predictable infill development types that contribute to an active, attractive, walkable downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, and inject new residents (and as a result, new customers) into the immediate Downtown area. Without proper guidelines and development standards, the market might otherwise just "fill-up" many of these high-value opportunity sites with low-density, auto-oriented housing types that do little more than add traffic congestion Downtown Area, as opposed to evolving an "in- town" neighborhood fabric catered to residents who value being able to walk or bike to local businesses, restaurants, and transit, in the activity-rich downtown. 1261
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The vision for these neighborhoods is very similar to the patterns existing in many of California's best cities,
where single family detached homes are seamlessly
intermixed with a variety of neighborhood-scaled multifamily housing types, in calm, quiet, pedestrian-scaled blocks defined by tree-lined streets and shared open
spaces. Top level goals for pursuing this vision include:

Goal 1: Shady Neighborhood Streets and
Open Spaces
The early founders of many towns throughout
California understood how to design neighborhoods
that sheltered their residents from the often harsh sun and winds, providing streets lined with trees in
parkways, planters, and medians and parks full of
big shade trees. These low-speed street environments
are inherently safe for pedestrians, and add a great
deal of value to properties that front them.

Existing street trees on Nuevo Avenue
effectively frame the street while providing
privacy to local residents.

Single family homes comprise the majority
of neighborhoods surrounding Downtown.

New housing will complement these
existing neighborhoods in size, scale and
architectural style.

Attached single-family homes in a
traditional neighborhood setting
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Residential streets should comfortable
and safe.

Goal 1: Shady Streets And Open Spaces

STRATEGIES
In-town neighborhoods will be defined by an
active network pedestrian-scaled blocks, streets,
and open spaces, comfortably designed with
continuous sidewalks, attractive landscaping,
and sheltered from the sun and wind by largecanopy shade trees, to encourage walking and biking, while accommodating traffic at low to
moderate speeds. This interconnected network
will accommodate, and in some cases unlock,
development potential for a variety of new
housing types all within a short walking or
biking distance to the activity-rich Downtown.

Ensure neighborhood streets balance the needs
of all modes.

Unique tree species can be planted on individual
neighborhoods streets to define and differentiate
them from each other.

Strategies & Actions
Key elements of this strategy include:
• Calm neighborhood streets: "Right-size"
neighborhood street widths with reduced lane
widths (10ft max), corner bulb-outs and midblock crossings, where appropriate, and implementing other Complete Streets strategies,
as described in the Downtown Core.
• Line streets with shade trees: All
neighborhood streets will be lined with largecanopy shade trees in parkways or planters to provide shade/wind protection for pedestrians,
and to visually-narrow the street, further
calming traffic. Select unique tree species on
individual streets to define and differentiate
each neighborhood.
• Make streets comfortable and safe for
bikes and pedestrians: Ensure all streets are
walkable/ bikable with continuous sidewalks,
and appropriate bicycle facilities (such as
sharrows or dedicated lanes) on busier streets.
• Provide a variety of neighborhoodserving parks & open spaces: Incorporate pocket parks, neighborhood greens and parks
within short, walkable distances from all new
residential development.
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• Make parks and open spaces multifunctional and safe: Design all parks and open spaces to accommodate a variety
of uses and activities, including informal
meeting places, children's play areas,
community events, outdoor recreation and
organized sports. These spaces should be
attractive, safe and comfortable—with
trees providing shade and wind protection,
and surrounding development providing
"eyes on the park" for additional safety.
• Orient new development to front
streets and shared open spaces: with
the front door of the residence the streets,
with attractive human scale frontages that
welcome visitors rather than sound walls or
security fences which send messages of
keep out.
• Manage on-street parking on
neighborhood streets:

Implement a residential streets
permit parking management
system to ensure adequate
resident and visitor parking.

Bike facilities should be provided on busier residential streets and corridors.

Neighborhood-serving park with a shaded playground
and large open space for sports and other outdoor
recreation.

Corner bulb-outs and crosswalks calm traffic and
enhance pedestrian safety.

Continuous sidewalk shaded by large canopy trees,
and buffered from traffic by a landscaped parkway
and parked cars.
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Goal 2: Neighborhood-Scaled Blocks

STRATEGIES
A comfortable, walkable neighborhood street.

The neighborhoods to the east and west of Downtown
have very different urban block patterns, and by
result, very different development characteristics. The area east of Sierra Ave contains many of the original
downtown residential neighborhoods, subdivided
into a series of well-connected, pedestrian-scale
blocks and streets, lined with shade trees and
sidewalks, and almost fully developed with singlefamily homes.

In the area immediately west of Downtown,
original rural subdivision patterns remain largely
intact; very large blocks containing very deep (up to
300ft) parcels, originally platted with the intent of
rural development patters in mind, (small house
with a big front yard, and a farm in the back of the
lot). Many of these rural lots remain vacant or
underutilized.

Exhibit X.X to the right illustrates block scale
comparisons between the original downtown
neighborhoods east of downtown, and their rural
counterparts, west of downtown. What is immediately
clear is: 1) the difference in walkability between these two parts of town (with the latter being essentially
"auto-oriented"), and 2) nearly all of the opportunities for significant neighborhood infill are in the area
immediately west of Downtown.

As illustrated in this diagram, the neighborhoods
east and west of downtown have significantly
different urban block and development patterns.

Several large blocks immediately west of
downtownwere originallyplatted with rural
development patterns in mind, and contain
many vacant or underutilizedparcels.

The original single-family neighborhood
east ofDowntown are made up of walkable
pedestrian-scaled blocks lined with trees
and sidewalks.
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Strategies & Actions:

Evolving the neighborhoods in and around
Downtown into comfortable, walkable
places with a range of housing options
organized by an attractive, safe public realm,
will involve the following elements:
• Subdivide large rural blocks to
increase walkability and expand
development potential: The Exhibit
X.X to the right illustrates conceptual
subdivision and infill strategies for one of
the large superblocks west of downtown.

Basic strategies include:
> Where possible/practical, create new
vehicular and pedestrian connections
via new streets, alleys, paseos, and
shared open spaces.
> Where possible/practical, combine
smaller lots to accommodate a
broader range of infill types.
> Ensure all new development is
oriented toward the public realm
• Ensure neighborhoodcompatibility: Choose appropriate development types based on lot size and
neighborhood context.
• Avoid new mistakes: Avoid
approving developments that may
eliminate the potential for future
connectivity, and that do not contribute
to the walkable/bikable neighborhoods
strategy near Downtown.

EXHIBIT X.8 "SUPERBLOCK" SUBDIVISION
*
For any given block, identify potential infill sites, look for opportunities to add circulation through the block, and establish connectivity with existing development.

AVOID: This typical suburban street frontage is
undesirable and counterproductive for creating
a walkable public realm.

Indicates Public Realm
Potential Connectivity
*
Potential Point of Connection
Wall
Dead-end
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Buildings in a variety of sizes, types, and
configurations can be seamlessly integrated
into the existing neighborhood fabric.

Goal 3: Neighborhood-Scale Buildings

STRATEGIES
For decades, housing in California has been delivered
almost exclusively in one of two forms: single-family
detached, houses with garages fronting the street, or
large apartment complexes. Neither type is ideally
suited to in-town living; the former detracting from
neighborhood walkability, and thinly spreading the
population where density and proximity are
valuable; the latter not being compatible with
surrounding single-family neighborhood patterns.

Fortunately, there is a wide range of types in between
(often referred to as "Missing Middle" types) offering
for sale and for rent dwellings in a variety of forms,
intensities, configurations, and price points.

Neighborhood-scale multi-family buildings look
just like a large house, but have multiple units.

This 3-unit rowhouse has the scale and character
of a large house.

Strategies & Actions
Key elements of this strategy include:
• Update neighborhood zoning to allow a
range of neighborhood-scale multi-family
housing types: This will unlock new
development potential in and around Downtown,
allowing a range of new housing options to enable
people of all ages and means to live near
Downtown.
• Organized Variety: Variety and creativity are
encouraged in the neighborhoods in and around
Downtown, with a wide range of building types
and architectural styles available. Exhibit X.X
illustrates a range of neighborhood-scale, multifamily residential building types, and a good number of variations exist. The value of these
types of buildings is that they can provide greater
housing intensity needed near Downtown,
without disrupting the existing neighborhood
Character.
• Update neighborhood development
standards: Because of the unusually deep lot
sizes characteristic of many of the opportunity
sites west of downtown, and because of the largely
rural development patterns there, neighborhood
development standards must be carefully crafted
to ensure that all new development is
appropriately scaled and massed to its lot and
surrounding context, and contributes the mix of
housing types and walkable/bikable neighborhood
character attractive to potential residents wanting
to live near Downtown.
84 Fontana General Plan
1273
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.128
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Examples of a range of neighborhood-scaled, multi-family building types (often referred to as "missing middle" types) that can be seamlessly inserted into Downtown Neighborhoods. Development standards for implementing these types are further specified in the Downtown Development Code.

Variety is encouraged: Two different versions of a courtyard building, with very different architectural styles; modern/contemporary on the left, and traditional/Mediterranean on the right.

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 85
1274
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.129
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Porches clearly mark the entry to the house, and
provide a transition from public to private space
In more urban environments, dooryards provide a
more transitional space between the public realm an
private residence, and help delineate the public realm. • Prioritize building frontages ftrst:

A bungalow court arranges several cottages around a
shared open space that is accessible from the street/
sidewalk.
86 Fontana General Plan
1275
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.130
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Residential Frontages provide access for residents and visitors to the front-door of a unit (or common entry lobby), either directly from the street/sidewalk, or through a shared open space accessible from the street..

Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 87
Public Realm Building Frontage Street Edge
Paseos and
Rosewalks function
like pedestrian
streets, providing
pedestrian access
through a block via
a shared open space
that provides direct
access to fronting
buildings.

C
Courtyard buildings
extend the public
realm into the site,
arranging units
around a shared
open-space that is
accessible from the
street/sidewalk.

B
Street-Fronting
Buildings define the
public realm and
provide "eyes on
the street." Access
to units is provided
directly from the
street/sidewalk or
through a common
entry lobby.

A
Street Street Street
1276
Chapter 14 Downtown Area Plan 1
City Council Resolution 2018-096
City Council Resolution 2018-097
City Council Resolution 2023-___ 14.131
Approved and Adopted by City Council November 13, 2018
Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23, 2023
Getting Started: In Town Neighborhoods
This section is for early action items that can be done or started within a year or two of adoption of the plan and that are not expensive or require major changes to the City's entitlement process.

ACTION WHO DOES IT?

1. Streetscape Improvements: The City will work with
residents to identify and prioritize a series of pedestrian improvements within the Downtown Area
neighborhoods. These would include filling in gaps in the sidewalk network, adding corner bulb-outs to help calm
traffic and redirect through traffic, street trees for shade and wind protection, improved crosswalks at key
locations, and adding or updating streetlights for safety and energy efficiency.

City

City/Residents

City/Developers/Residents

5. Neighborhood Connectivity: In conjunction with
Foothill Boulevard and Transit Stop on Sierra Avenue
improvements and infill development proposals, the
City will work collaboratively with existing property
owners, developers, and residents of adjoining
neighborhoods to seek opportunities to provide new
direct pedestrian, bicycle, and in some cases vehicular connections from the neighborhoods to businesses
along the corridor, to support the businesses and
shorten trips.

15.1 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- Land Use,
Zoning, and
Urban Design
1278

Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.2 Every General Plan contains an element on land use policy and a land use map. Fontana’s land use element sets forth the policy framework over the next 20 years for the physical development of Fontana. It is the guide for decision makers on the pattern, distribution, density and intensity of land uses that, overtime, will help the city achieve the Fontana vision for the future. The land use map is not a zoning map but provides the foundation for zoning and guides the Planning Commission and City Council when they are called upon to exercise their discretion in making rulings on rezoning and similar issues.

Land use patterns and decisions are influenced by population and economic growth (which create market demand), transportation access and opportunities, the availability of infrastructure, environmental constraints, and quality of life potential reflected in school quality, parks and recreational opportunities, and cultural amenities. Most development decisions are made by the private sector, but those decisions occur within a public sector framework created by the General Plan, including the Land Use Plan, the Zoning and Development Code, and other development regulations. Land use decision making is also influenced by state priorities and public investments, incentives and disincentives. These regulatory and incentive frameworks will not, by themselves, cause development of a specific type to happen, but they can encourage it. A system of well-organized land uses
1279

Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.3 Creates the possibility of more choice in transportation, supports consumeroriented businesses, provides neighborhoods attractive to the workforce, uses infrastructure efficiently, mitigates adverse impacts, and improves the compatibility of diverse land uses.

The Fontana Land Use Plan aims to direct the most efficient, functional, costeffective and aesthetically pleasing way to meet demand for various land uses within the 20-year time horizon of the General Plan. After the closure of the Kaiser Steel Mill in the 1980s, the City focused on development of unbuilt land through the specific plan process, primarily for residential uses but also for light industrial uses. Specific plans take the place of zoning for a designated geographic area and include detailed development and infrastructure requirements. In Fontana, they have often been used for developments by a single owner. At the time of the last General Plan in 2003, a significant amount of land remained to be entitled and developed, north of the 210 Freeway. More than a decade later, much of the land in Fontana has been built out or entitled. Over the next 20 years, Fontana’s growth will focus increasingly on redevelopment.
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.4 A. Land Use in the Fontana Forward
Vision and Principles
C. Findings and Challenges

FINDINGS
Land Use
• Fontana is a maturing suburban community but will continue to change as it continues to develop.
• Growth will increasingly come through redevelopment in the coming decades:
> Older industrial sites: adaptive reuse
> Central area of Fontana: infill and revitalization
> Infill and revitalization of land and buildings on arterial streets: Foothill, Sierra, and Valley
> Older retail sites: shopping center redevelopment
> Older subdivisions: revitalization and development in the longer term Ensure fairness and opportunity for all parts of the city.

Make every neighborhood a “neighborhood of choice”
with excellent infrastructure, services and amenities.

Pursue high-quality development. Make public
investments a model of excellent design and maintain
high-quality design standards for new development.
•
entertainment centers. Fontana’s opportunities attract new residents, support successful businesses, and encourage empty nesters to stay and
Connect people and places. Provide efficient transportation choices, including pedestrian, bicycle, and transit
opportunities, along with well-maintained streets, to
connect people to city destinations.
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.5 • Master planned communities developed through the specific plan process since the 1980s and predominantly in southern and northern areas of Fontana are not expected to experience land use changes over the next 20 years.
• The majority of remaining undeveloped land in Fontana has been entitled through the specific plan process.
• Major areas still to be developed include:
> Approximately 269 acres of undeveloped land along
the southern edge of I-15 between Duncan Canyon
and the northern edge of Fontana.
> Approximately 101 acres in the Ventana Specific Plan
near the Duncan Canyon interchange are expected
to be developed with both commercial and
residential uses by a development company chosen
in 2016 through the request for proposal process by
the City.
> The major arterial corridors of the central area of
Fontana—Foothill Boulevard, Sierra Avenue, and
Valley Boulevard—include approximately 260 acres
of unbuilt land and many underutilized parcels of
land with low-value buildings or improvements.
> Central areas of Fontana between Foothill Boulevard
and I-10 also include vacant (approx. 665 acres) or
underutilized land that is appropriate for infill
development.
• Fontana’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) encompasses
5,906 acres consisting of 660 acres in the northern area of Fontana of which 85.67acresaredevelopable; 5,090
acres in the western section of the SOI, which includes residential, commercial and industrial land uses; and
156 acres in the eastern SOI. Fifty-three percent of the SOI acres are designated for industrial land uses.

Zoning
• While General Plans are long-term policy documents, zoning codes are immediate regulatory documents, designed to implement the general plan, in part, by regulating allowed, conditionally allowed, and prohibited land uses.

For general law cities, like Fontana, zoning codes must be consistent with the city’s general plan and comply with many other state laws. • There are three basic types of zoning: conventional (“Euclidean”) zoning, form-based zoning, and hybrid zoning.
> Conventional zoning: In its pure form, conventional zoning separates zoning districts for residential, commercial, and industrial land uses and regulates the dimensions of development, such as lot size and coverage; type, size, and height of buildings; width and length of streets and sidewalks; amount and size of off-street parking. The separation of land uses and dimensional specifications make conventional zoning inflexible but easy to implement.

However, it focuses more on what is not allowed than on what is desired.

Fontana’s existing zoning system is fundamentally conventional, EXHIBIT 15.1

DISTRIBUTION OF EXISTING LAND USES IN
THE CITY OF FONTANA (2016)

CATEGORY
AREA
(ACRES) PERCENT
Residential 13,837 41.4%
Commercial 1,988 5.9%
Industrial 7,430 22.2%
Open space 1,572 4.7%
Transportation/Utility ROW 43 0.1%
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.6 B. Goals and Policies

GOALS POLICIES
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 15.7 with separated land uses in single-use districts and dimensional prescriptions, but the use of Specific Plans has also introduced site design flexibility and design standards of various types.
> Form-based zoning: Form-based zoning focuses more on building form— the physical character of the building and how it addresses the street and public realm—than on land uses. Form-based codes are a reaction to conventional zoning’s separation of land uses, making it impossible to build mixed-use neighborhoods and districts, and its neglect of the public realm, sometimes resulting in visually- and functionally-impoverished public environments that can be unattractive, and functional for only one type of user. Form-based codes use many visuals to give a positive vision of what is desired, rather than focusing on what should be excluded. > Hybrid zoning: Codes that combine aspects of conventional and formbased zoning are called hybrid codes. Because of its familiarity, ease of administration, and long institutional history, conventional zoning will remain in force in many communities, particularly where there are wellestablished areas of single land uses. However, form-based codes are increasingly used for districts and corridors where a mixture of uses and a lively public realm are desired.
• Modern zoning codes strive for as much simplicity, transparency and streamlining as is consistent with safeguarding the public’s interest in quality development. Citizens should be able to understand zoning requirements and development standards—not just developers and their consultants. Unlike many modern zoning codes, Fontana’s does not include illustrations that show what is required or preferred, and what is not permitted.
• Because of Fontana’s extensive use of Specific Plans to guide development since the 1980s, land use regulation in a substantial portion of the city is governed by Specific Plans. Almost all of North Fontana, half of the area between SR-210 and Foothill Blvd, and two-thirds of South Fontana are covered by Specific Plans whose allocation of land uses, densities, and design standards are treated as zoning. Exhibit 15.3 Previous Zoning shows how the use of Specific Plans for planned development has affected the city’s zoning map. Most specific plans are either residential or non-residential. There are a few that are nominally “mixed use,” but in fact include separated land uses within the Specific Plan.
• The City has established zoning overlay districts for Downtown, the hospital area, and three major corridors—Sierra, Foothill and Arrow:

Boulevard Overlay and Downtown Overlay Districts. Because of the limited development activity in recent years, the impact of design standards in these overlay districts has been limited, though it can be seen in the landscaping at a few locations of new commercial development. Valley Boulevard does not have an overlay district.
• There are several other overlay districts serving a variety of purposes:
> special regulations to accommodate auto sales for 138 acres along South Highland Avenue between SR-210 to the north, Mango 1284

15.8 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.2 PREVIOUS LAND USE
1285

15.9 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- Avenue to the east, Citrus Avenue to the west, and variable locations to the south.

This area has attracted vehicle dealerships.
> an overlay district for 10 named intersections where walkable mixed use development is to be encouraged, design review required, and certain development standards and design guidelines to be observed within 300 feet of the center of the intersection. This overlay has not had the impact desired. > required by the Housing Element to allow shelters and transitional housing to serve homeless persons. The underlying zoning is industrial.

There have been no proposed projects for homeless shelters or transitional housing. > regulations for hospital and medical uses applied around Kaiser Hospital.
> to regulate safe building on steep slopes over 10% in North and South Fontana.
> focused on providing for standards that buffer adjacent development from utility corridors.
> designated parcels eligible to apply
for the overlay east of Sierra Avenue and north of SR-210. This has resulted in approval of a number of warehouses between SR-210 and Duncan Canyon Road. > areas of northern and southern Fontana subject to
regulations to mitigate risk from wildfire.

Urban Design
• Urban design focuses on the physical character of cities and towns in three dimensions—how the different elements of spaces, such as buildings, sidewalks, roads, parks, and parking lots, relate to one another. Through the arrangement of these elements, urban design affects how spaces function in facilitating, directing or obstructing people’s activities and experiences within the physical environment. It is not simply about visual style or aesthetic preferences. Urban design today focuses on creating places where people want to be and that people care about: welcoming, safe, attractive, accessible, comfortable, and sociable.
• The overall community design of Fontana reflects its development history and a strong reliance on master planned development models through Specific Plans for large residential communities, shopping centers, and the warehouse industry. Most of today’s city follows the 20th century suburban development model of separated land uses, limited connectivity between developments, and site design organized around the car.
• Residential districts. In Fontana, older residential areas and smaller subdivisions tucked between other land uses are designed with houses set back and facing the street.

Ranch-style houses from the 1960s to 1980s are very common in the central part of the city. Older houses have separate garages located toward the rear of the lot, while more recent houses present driveway
1286

15.10 EXHIBIT 15.3 EXISTING ZONING
Previous Zoning Map
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15.11 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- garage doors as the dominant feature of their frontage. There are also some remaining large lots of 11,000 square feet or less, with a small house, sometimes on streets that lack sidewalks or curbs.

Planned development areas in Fontana are typically inward looking.

Development along arterials in newer areas is usually walled or fenced, with large amounts of landscaping in more expensive areas. Many residential developments have six- to eight-foot fences, and the majority of single-family homes along main arterials have their back and side yards facing the arterial street. In addition, a number of residential developments are gated communities.
• Commercial districts. With the exception of downtown Fontana’s few retail blocks with buildings built to the sidewalk, retail and services like eating and drinking establishment in Fontana take four forms:
>
Standalone retail can be found on Foothill
Boulevard and on Sierra Boulevard
between Ceres Avenue and
Marygold Avenue.
>
Older neighborhood centers
include the Foothill Boulevard locations of Fontana Plaza and Fontana Park Plaza, a center on Baseline Avenue at Cherry, and a neighborhood center in Southridge at Cherry and Live Oak.
>
A few newer, small retail clusters have also emerged on Foothill at the Citrus Avenue intersection, where the classic suburban retail intersection has a Walgreens, a gas station, a McDonald’s, and a small strip center, all of which, except for the McDonald’s, have parking at the corner behind sidewalks and landscaped setbacks.
>
The large neighborhood centers are located in
North and South Fontana: Palm Court at Sierra and Slover;the Sierra Lakes Parkway big box mall at SR-210; the Falcon Ridge Town Center along I-15; and a special case, the “auto mall,” just south of SR-210.

Although all four types are designed to accommodate the car, the newer developments have sidewalks along the streets and along the buildings and much superior landscaping. They tend to locate stores at the perimeter and parking in the center. However, they typically do not provide pedestrian amenities from the sidewalks to the buildings or through the parking lots.
• Modern warehouse districts are characterized by
large boxes (often white) on well-landscaped streets. The interface between 1288

15.12 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- these modern warehouse areas and residential areas is typically buffered by arterial streets and commercial areas. Industrial districts also include older areas with a variety of businesses, many focused on trucking. In these areas, and in the southern industrial areas between I-10 and Jurupa Avenue, there are many transition areas where industrial and older residential areas are not well buffered.
• many
set
back far from the street, with parking lots and other paved areas along the street. In addition to projecting a low quality, semi-vacant image to the street, this pattern discourages all modes of transportation other than the

CHALLENGES
• Retrofitting existing development in the city to create urban design conditions that enhance connectivity and promote safe and attractive walking and biking. Fontana’s development patterns present challenges for more transportation choice—enhanced public transportation, walking, and bicycling.
• Developing infill and new mixed-use areas in the city and underutilized corridors, including housing to support non-residential uses, services and attractions.
•
of online retail,
and to provide more diversity within office developments. The best opportunities arise with redevelopment of non-residential properties because retail and commercial businesses are sensitive to changing consumer
redevelopment can promote retrofits of existing properties to make them more pedestrian-friendly, connected, and well-designed for all users.

D. What the Community Said
Public opinion survey
• When asked for opinions on future priorities for housing,respondents gave these combined ratings for high- and medium-priority items:
1289

15.13 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- Community workshops and meeting input
• Numerous community members emphasized the need for open spaces, neighborhood amenities and businesses that target the senior community. • Manyindicatedastronginterestinconvertingexistingvacantandunderutilize d properties to more valuable and productive uses.

E. Policies and Actions
to Achieve the Goals
The goals, policies and actions of this General Plan are consistent with State of California planning priorities.

State Frameworks Promote Compact Development
The goals, policies and actions of this General Plan are consistent with State of California climate-change policy frameworks. The State has adopted policies and legislation that affect land use policies on the local level that are intended to reduce the impact of climate change on the state. Climate change has been the subject of multiple executive orders (EOs) and legislation. • EO S-03-05 established long-term targets for 2020 and 2050 for emissions reductions in California, and EOS-13-08 established climate change adaptation and resilience as a priority.
1290

15.14 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.4 CONSOLIDATED PUBLIC INPUT ON PLACEMAKING QUALITIES 1291

15.15 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- • State goals include reduction of petroleum use by up to 50 percent by 2030, and increasing use of renewable energy to 50 percent by 2030. • The State has set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions-reduction requirements through numerous mechanisms, including land use and transportation planning. (See AB 32, SB 375, and SB 743 as examples).
• The AB 32 Scoping Plan includes sections on local government and the importance of local action to help achieve statewide climate goals. • The Safeguarding California Plan, Cal-Adapt, Climate Change Handbook for Regional Water Planning, and the Adaptation Planning Guide provide guidance for resilience and adaptation efforts. The General Plan Guidelines, published by the Office of Planning and Research, focus on how the General Plan can achieve both GHG emission reductions and resilience to climate change impacts and lead to healthier communities.

The state frameworks promote compact and infill development as a way to reduce GHG emissions, as well as transit-oriented development. The 2016- 2040 SCAG Regional Transportation Plan includes Transit-Oriented Development, Downtown Revitalization, Livable Corridors and Neighborhood Mobility Areas
State Of California Planning Priorities for Municipalities 1292

15.16 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- (called “Connected Neighborhoods” in this General Plan) as strategies for compact development. Livable Corridors are mixed-use centers along corridors where activities are concentrated and transportation alternatives are available. Neighborhood Mobility Areas are an approximately 3-mile radius around community destinations such as parks, schools, and shopping areas.

San Bernardino County’s General Plan
The goals, policies, and actions of the Fontana General Plan are consistent with the adopted San Bernardino Countywide Vision. During the Fontana Forward process for creating this general plan, San Bernardino County also began a process to update its General Plan with a target adoption date of 2018.

The Countywide Plan is intended to “go well beyond a traditional general plan to become a comprehensive Countywide Plan that complements and informs the Countywide Vision by taking into account all services—not just land-use planning—provided by County Government, and the unique values and priorities of each unincorporated community. It will serve as a guide for County decision- making, financial planning, and communications.” No countywide documents had been issued by March 2017. However, the Fontana Forward General Plan will be consistent with the Countywide Vision adopted by the Board of Supervisors in 2011 :
•
EXHIBIT 15.5 LIVABLE CORRIDOR
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15.17 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.6 CONNECTED NEIGHBORHOOD
•
•
•
•
Goal 1: The Strategic Policy Map and the Land Use Map guide land-use decision making.

POLICIES
•
•

ACTIONS
 The Strategic Policy Map (Exhibit 15.7) shows the policy approach underlying the General Plan’s Land Use Map (Exhibit 15.8). These broad policy directions are based on the community engagement process
1294

15.18 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- and the development of the other plan elements. They reflect the land use priorities that together underlie the policy framework in the updated General Plan. The key features of the Strategic Policy Map are:
• Connected Neighborhoods. This is an adaptation of the Neighborhood Mobility Areas concept to the areas of Fontana that have been developed through master-planned subdivisions in specific plans, predominantly in the northern and southern areas of Fontana. Few significant changes are expected in the land use patterns in these areas and any changes will continue to be governed by the land use regulations and development standards in the specific plans. For these areas the General Plan focuses on creating more opportunities and options to connect to local destinations, such as parks, schools, and shopping through safe pedestrian and bicycle routes and trails.
• i3—Infill + Infrastructure + Interconnection Neighborhoods. These are the residential and mixed-use parts of the city that expanded from the historic core into walkable neighborhoods. The focus in these areas is to enhance the attractiveness of these neighborhoods with upgraded infrastructure and conditions for pedestrians and bicycling and new types of infill housing. While specific plans filled up the undeveloped lands in the southern and northern areas of Fontana from the 1980s to today, the central part of the city received less housing and infrastructure investment. Residents supported public investment in the city’s Civic Center since 2008 and now want to see the downtown revitalized. Upgrading conditions and providing more housing variety will help support a more exciting downtown.
• Downtown. This General Plan includes a Downtown Area Plan that promotes mixed-use and compact development. There is broadbased support in Fontana for revitalizing downtown. By building upon the existing assets, creating new zoning that accommodates higher densities and a mixture of uses with design that supports walkability and a lively public realm, Downtown can become a vibrant center of entertainment, the arts, shopping, and business— as well as a neighborhood that can attract young adults and empty nesters.
• Livable Corridors. This strategic policy strategy is also a transitoriented development strategy. Major corridors like Foothill and Valley Boulevards and Sierra Avenue are currently characterized by underutilized and vacant lots. The bus transit along Sierra and Foothill, is expected to provide the opportunity to bring multi-family housing to the areas within walking distance of transit stops and promote mixed-use development.
• Walkable Village Areas. These locations have vacant land and offer the opportunity for a new kind of mixed-use subdivision and site design that offers a variety of housing types and walkable connections to mixed use and neighborhood-serving retail and service areas.
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15.19 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.7 STRATEGIC POLICY MAP
Bus stop, planned
April 2017
Data sources: City of Fontana, 2016; Esri, 2016
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15.20 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- • Light Industry. Warehousing, trucking, manufacturing and support industries are focused especially along regional transportation routes. Some of these areas need upgrades in order to increase or maintain competitiveness.
• Annexation. Several areas are proposed for annexation. Annexation of the area along Arrow Boulevard west of downtown will, over time, support the development of transit-oriented development and the central city and downtown as a mixed-use concentration of activities. Also recommended for annexation is the small residential area bounded by San Bernardino, Locust, Randall, and Alder Avenues and the area remaining along Foothill Boulevard between Almeria and Hemlock.
 Many land use categories in the Land Use Map (Exhibit 15.8) have not changed in definition, density or location. In a few cases, new locations have been designated using existing land use categories and, in one case, an error in the 2016 Previous Land Use Map has been corrected by designating the Arboretum Specific Plan as Residential Planned Community (RPC) rather than Residential Multifamily (RMF). In the case of Regional Mixed Use, the land use category has a new definition and density range. The Land Use Map also has two new mixed-use land use categories and one new name for a specific kind of residential land use category.
(See Exhibit 15.8, Land Use Map).
 Too much land is currently designated as commercial in Fontana. C-G is the default land use designation along corridors, resulting in lowdensity, low-value development with considerable vacant or underutilized property. Even though the population will grow in the future, brick and mortar retailing has already been affected by on-line shopping and other trends, suggesting that commercial development will not expand to serve more population in the same way as in the late 20th century. Shoppers are increasingly looking for an interesting and fun experience while shopping, which also includes a better experience in the physical design and function of retail areas (Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga is an example of “experiential retail”). Individual retail stores increasingly have smaller footprints but retailers are focusing more on providing a good experience.
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15.21 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- It can be amended only
four times a year. Each land use category
or designation is intended to provide a
range of densities or building types.

The
Land Use Map should be
understood within that time
horizon. Changes from the previous
land uses in this Land Use Map focus on
the areas that are the most strategically
important for achieving the General
Plan’s vision over the next two decades
and where changes are most likely to
occur. The Land Use Map takes into
account the land use distribution
already in place and the likelihood and
desirability that certain land uses will
persist. The Land Use Map and the
definitions in the General Plan replace
the previous land use map as a guide
for development.

It does not represent or replace the City’s
zoning and development regulations. It
does not directly address
design issues and has no direct impact on
the function and appearance of land uses.

The land use categories in the map may
be represented in the zoning code by
more than one zoning district. The land
use categories that have been used in
Fontana since the 2003 General Plan have
a designated range of residential densities
(dwelling units per acre or du/acre) or
intensity of non- residential uses (FAR—
floor area ratio). The previous Fontana
land use categories correspond very
closely to zoning districts, and people
often view the maps interchangeable, but
they are distinct. For simplicity’s sake, the
new Land Use Map retains the majority of
the 2003 land use categories where land
uses are unlikely to change, such as in the
specific plan neighborhoods. Definitions in
some cases have been simplified. Several
new land use categories for mixed-use
have been created and the definition of
one earlier mixed-use category has been
modified.
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15.22 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.8 LAND USE MAP
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15.23 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- Fontana in the future should have a set of concentrated commercial areas, including downtown, that serve local residents and visitors.

The residential land use designations support
densities of 2 to 50 dwelling units per acre (du/
ac).
• R-E: Residential Estates (2 du/ac). This lowdensity designation reflects natural, environmental, and other constraints
adjacent to the hillside areas in Fontana, as
well as the lack of infrastructure in the area.

Development in R-E areas is intended to
evoke a rural feeling.
• R-PC: Residential Planned Community (3-6.4
du/ac). The R-PC land use category is used
for master-planned communities with
specific plans and requires a mini- mum of
145 acres or minimum 10,000sf lots. Because
most vacant development sites of that size
have already been developed, it is not
expected that there will be additional
residential specific plans. R-PC will continue
as a “legacy” land use category linked to the
zoning and density approved in the specific
plans.
• R-SF: Single-Family Residential (2.1-5
du/ac). Detached single-family housing.
• R-M: Medium-Density Residential (5.1-12
du/ac). This land use category
accommodates single-family detached
housing up to 7.6 du per acre and singlefamily attached or multi-family housing up to 12 du per acre.
• R-MF: Multi-Family Residential (12.1-24
du/ac). This category includes multi- family
developments, from duplexes
and townhouses to condos and rental
apartments, at densities up to 24 du per
acre with required amenities.
• R-MFMH: Multi-Family Medium/High (24.1–
39 du/ac). Higher-density multi- family
development up to 39 du per acre is
allowed in this land use category.
• R-MFH: Multi-Family High (39.1–50 du/ ac).

This is the highest-density residential
category in Fontana, allowing up to 50 du per
acre. It was created in response to the State
of California requirements of the Housing
Element.
• R-T: Residential Trucking (2 du/ ac). This
land use category provides for locations
where properties combine residential and
small scale, owner- operated trucking
businesses at a density of 2 du per acre.

In the Southwest Industrial Park (SWIP)
specific plan, three small, unique areas are
zoned as Residential Trucking District (RTD),
but in the previous Land Use Map, they are
were designated R-E (Residential Estate) land
use because of the maximum density of 2 du
per acre. However, these areas are very
different in many other respects from the R-E
land use category, which is predicated on the
environmental benefit of low-density
residential zoning.
• C-C: Community Commercial (0.1–1 FAR).

This district is for retail, including shopping
centers, and similar enterprises that serve
residents as well as offices, including medical
offices and clinics.
• C-G: General Commercial (0.1–1 FAR).

Retail, malls, wholesale, auto dealerships
and offices, including medical offices and
clinics, that can serve a broader, regional
population.
• I-L: Light Industrial (0.1–0.6 FAR).

Employee-intensive uses, including
1300

15.24 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- business parks, research and development,
technology centers, corporate and support
office uses, clean industry, supporting retail
uses, truck and equipment sales and related
services are allowed. Warehouses that are
designed in ways that limit off-site impacts
are also permitted.
• I-G: General Industrial (0.1-0.6 FAR).

Uses such as manufacturing,
warehousing, fabrication, assembly,
processing, trucking, equipment,
automobile and truck sales and services
are allowed in this category.
• P-PF: Public Facilities. This land use
designation is for properties in public or
quasi-public ownership, such as existing
schools; the facilities of agencies such as
the City, County, water and sewer
districts, and fire protection districts; and
hospitals and quasi-public institutions.
• P-R: Recreational Facilities. Regional and
local parks, and any recreational facility
operated by a public or quasi-public agency
fall into this land use category.
• P-UC: Public Utility Corridors. Locations in
the planning area that contain easements for
public utilities are in this land use category.
• OS: Open Space. This category includes
natural areas; publicly owned areas with
slopes of 20% or greater or subject to
wildfire; uses including quarries, flood
control channels, ground water percolation
basins and agriculture. Only
structures related to the management of
resources are permitted.

Three new mixed-use categories have
been added to the Land Use Plan
(Exhibit 15.8) in this General Plan:
, and
• RMU-Regional Mixed Use. The Regional
Mixed Use land use category is intended
for a mixture of land uses on relatively
large tracts of land located in proximity to
regional transportation routes (such as I15), and supporting regional markets. This category accommodates a wide range of
retail, commercial, office, medium density
residential, civic, open space and job- rich
light manufacturing uses without adverse
impacts on surrounding uses. The mixture
of uses can be “vertical,” that is, in one
structure, or “horizontal,” meaning
different land uses adjacent or in close
proximity. The intent of this land use
category is to provide the potential for a
jobs-housing balance, where employees
can live near their jobs; to create welldesigned districts that provide walkable environments and connectivity among
subdistricts; and to deploy urban design
and building design strategies that
harmonize the mixture of uses. The RMU
land use category has a residential density
of 12 to 24 du/acre and commercial
intensity of 0.1 to 1.0 FAR.

Development planning, zoning, and criteria
for the RMU land use category. The previous
zoning requirements for RMU should be
replaced by zoning guided by an Area Plan.

On the Land Use Map, the major area
designated as the RMU land use is located on
the south side of the I-15 freeway, east of
the Duncan Canyon interchange and the
Ventana Specific Plan area. The previous
RMU zoning is highly specific in terms of
how much of each land use must be
1301

15.25 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- in a project, and other requirements.

Planners report that the requirements have
played a role in discouraging development in
RMU areas.

In order to develop base zoning, the City
ideally should create one or more Area
Plans for the areas designated as RMU in
order to shape development and set
expectations. The Area Plan should be
organized to provide a set of interconnected
walkable, mixed use environments, with
residential development that can range from
garden apartments, townhouses, and other
“missing middle” housing models to
multifamily development, surrounding or
incorporating employment, commercial,
retail, and entertainment centers. The
Downtown Code associated with the
Downtown Area Plan in this General Plan,
can serve as a source of zoning concepts for
the walkable environments that are
envisioned for the RMU area.

The advantage of creating an Area Plan
before establishing new zoning is that it
will show how the City envisions an
interconnected overall mixed-use
environment that can include both
horizontal and vertical mixed use. While
mixed-use development is becoming more
common in California and elsewhere in
the country, it requires more complicated
development planning and complex
financing. An Area Plan could provide
opportunities for developers who specialize
in one kind of land use to participate in
development consistent with horizontal
mixed use as identified in the Area Plan, as
well as identifying locations where more
complex horizontal mixed use and vertical
mixed use development is expected. The
Area Plan would include
design standards and guidelines that show
how the various land uses, centers, and
vertical mixed use developments would be
connected and harmonized.

Use of a PUD (Planned Unit Development)
process, which has a one-acre minimum,
could also be a suitable process for
development under an RMU Area Plan.

This could allow variations in residential,
non-residential, and vertical mixed use
densities, as long as they further the goals
of the overall RMU Area Plan.

Another approach to distributing density in
an RMU Area Plan is to use a
Development Opportunity Reserve (DOR) in
all or part of the Area Plan. Because the
zoning for the RMU land use category will
provide for more density than at present,
this added density can be put into a “Reserve
Account” rather than be distributed among
development parcels. The density can then
be allocated to preferred uses and
development projects through a conditional
permitting process that demonstrates that
they meet community goals as expressed in
the Area Plan.

Basic principles and criteria to guide
development in the RMU land use
category include:
> Develop the area on this General
Plan’s principle of “Connected
Neighborhoods,” creating mixeduse subdistricts with a core of employment, neighborhood retail and
services, civic, and entertainment uses
that are interconnected and can be
accessed by walking or biking.
> Locate non-residential uses in proximity to
freeways, with no residential uses within
1,000 feet of a freeway for health reasons
(impacts of airborne particulate matter).
1302

15.26 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- > Use design strategies—for example
incremental changes in height, density,
intensity of use, landscaping—rather than
walls to transition from higher to lower
densities and intensities.
> Limit cul-de-sacs and dead-end streets.
> Include a diversity of housing types and lot
sizes. Maximum densities can be
averaged to encourage a variety of lot
sizes.
> In residential and mixed-use areas that
include residences, limit block sizes to 600
feet or smaller to improve connectivity.
> Include a market study as part of the Area
Plan.

Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown and
Corridors (WMXU-1), Walkable Mixed Use
Urban Village (WMXU-2) and Walkable Mixed
Use Urban Village (WMXU-3). The Land Use
Map establishes three new mixed- use
categories for Walkable Mixed Use.

These land use categories are very different in
character from the land use categories that
have been retained from the Previous Land use
Map (Exhibit 15.2). They do not easily
correspond with conventional, single- use and
separated zoning districts.
• Walkable Mixed-Use Downtown and
Corridors (WMXU-1). This land use category
is intended to provide for the creation of
areas that allow residents and visitors to
walk, bike, and take transit to other uses for
work, study, shopping, entertainment,
recreation, and civic activities, and to
provide compact residential development
within walking distance of planned public
transit stops and neighborhood shopping
areas.

Uses include a variety of medium- to highdensity residential types, retail and services, office, entertainment, education,
civic, and open space. Both vertical and
horizontal mixed use is acceptable. Light
industrial uses are generally not included,
except for conditional allowable of smallscale, artisan style businesses that operate
without adverse urban design and other
impacts, such as heavy truck traffic, on
neighboring uses. WMXU- 1 residential
densities range from 24 to 39 du per
acre and non-residential uses have a
maximum Floor Area Ratio of 2.0. The
WMXU-1 designation is located along
Sierra Avenue, much of Foothill
Boulevard, and the segment of Valley
Boulevard between Cypress and
Palmetto. The designation was created
to cover the half-mile walking distance
radii (known as “walksheds”) from
planned public transit stops.

A form-based zoning code for the Downtown Area Plan district is being prepared to accompany this General Plan. When adopted, it will serve as the Downtown Code and provide the foundation for additional
zoning in the WMXU-1 land use area along
the corridors.
• Walkable Mixed-Use Urban Village (WMXU2). This land use designation is intended to provide an alternative to conventional
subdivision development with a mixture of
housing types, neighborhood-serving retail,
open space and civic uses, and site design
that provides for multi-modal connectivity
internal to the site and external to connect
with adjacent areas. WMXU-2 residential
densities range from 12 to 24 du per acre,
and non-residential uses
can have up to an FAR of 1.0. Residents can
walk or bike to neighborhood destinations.
• | Walkable Mixed-Use Urban Village
(WMXU-3). This land use designation is
intended to provide a variety of housing
intended for the Downtown area and adjacent
areas. The intent is to allow for higher density
housing mixed with commercial uses to create
a regional and local destination. WMXU-3
residential density range is 2.1-70 du per acre
with a FAR ratio up to 2.0 for ground floor
commercial development.
1303

15.27 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- The WMXU land use category is intended to provide
flexibility in zoning and development in:
• Fontana’s downtown and on vacant and
underutilized lots in adjacent areas.

Along the Sierra and Foothill corridors with
planned transit stops.

Along Valley Boulevard around the intersection
with Sierra Avenue.

At and near key intersections where new housing
development could be designed to allow safe and
convenient walking to nearby shopping or
neighborhood destinations like schools and parks.
“Walkable” in this land use category means that it is
structured by the walking distance from destinations
like the civic center, downtown attractions, shopping
and restaurants, planned public transit stops, and
neighborhood destinations. The maximum distance
people are willing to walk on a regular basis is 1/2 mile or ten minutes—as long as they experience the walk as
safe, comfortable, and convenient.
1304

15.28 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- 1305

15.29 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- WMXU-1 is organized around walking access to
downtown and along Fontana’s three underutilized
corridors: Foothill Boulevard, Sierra Avenue within
Central Fontana, and Valley Boulevard centered
around the Sierra intersection. This land use category
provides the opportunity for a combination of
commercial development and well-designed multifamily housing to support that development. The mixture of uses can be “vertical”—housing or offices
above ground-floor commercial development—or
“horizontal,” where housing and commercial uses
could be located adjacent to one another. Zoning
consistent with the purpose of WMXU-1 should
include design requirements for a compatible mixture
of uses and densities in this area and should ensure that a proper transition in density occurs adjacent to streets with single-family houses.

WMXU-2 is intended for new subdivisions of housing
that are designed to make it easy to walk to shopping
(which may be part of the subdivision) or to
destinations like parks and schools that are located
within walking distance. These subdivisions will use
design strategies rather than walls to connect to streets and adjacent development. They can also have a
mixture of housing densities and open spaces, so that
there are appropriate transitions between different
housing types such as multi-family, townhouses,
single-family houses, and commercial areas.

WMXU-3 is intended for new development in the
central area of the Downtown and adjacent areas.

Higher density housing is proposed to along and near
the major corridors such as Sierra Avenue, Arrow
Boulevard and Orange Way. Mixed use development
is encouraged to create a vibrant commercial
destination. Vertical housing is likely given the
anticipated density. Attractive architecture and
landscaping is anticipated to create amenities for
pedestrian activity.

Vertical mixed use building with housing above retail
A walkable block with housing, commercial space and parking Neighborhood scale housing for urban villages
1306

15.30 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- The zoning for the WMXU land use categories will be
based on zoning to be created for the Downtown Area
Plan, which will be ready for adoption soon after the
General Plan is adopted. This zoning will incorporate
what is known as form-based zoning.

Form-based zoning is designed to guide design of
buildings and places so that developers and builders
know what the City wants and the City can have
confidence that the result will fit in with the overall plan for the area. Form-based zoning is especially
appropriate for mixed-use areas. It uses physical form
(rather than separation of uses) as an organizing
principle. Form-based codes address the relationship
between building facades and public places like
sidewalks, streets and plazas, the form and mass of
buildings in relation to one another, and the scale and types of streets and blocks. Form-based regulations
and standards are presented in both words and clearly
drawn diagrams and other visuals. The WMXU-1
zoning will be drafted to implement the Downtown
Area Plan as a Downtown Code, and elements of this
zoning will also be appropriate for the corridors.

WMXU-2 and WMXU-3 zoning will be a modified
version of Fontana’s form-based zoning, current design
guidelines, and residential planned communities
zoning.

Multi-family or student housing next to a path
Street-facing shops and restaurants create a sense of place.

Public plazas make walkable districts enjoyable.
1307

15.31 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- • Each land use is in a separate area.

Bedroom communities are empty during
the day, and office parks are empty
during the night.

Dead-end cul-de-sacs prevent walkability.

Car traffic and congestion increase
because every trip requires driving.

It encourages inefficient use of land,
resources, and assets.

Different land uses are mixed vertically
and horizontally.

Active uses at all times of day increase safety.

More intersections per square mile
promotes walking to a variety of
destinations.

It reduces car traffic and congestion because
walking and biking are options for
neighborhood, in-town, and some
commuting trips.

It promotes efficient use of land, resources,
and assets.
1308

15.32 Approved and Adopted by City Council July 23,2023 City Resolution 2023- EXHIBIT 15.10

SUMMARY OF DENSITY RANGES AND ACREAGE OF LAND USE CATEGORIES IN THE LAND USE PLAN

Fontana City CouncilJuly 25, 2023

Fontana City Council
July 25, 2023