AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Biological Resources 3.4-10 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.5-1 Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources
3.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
V. Cultural Resources. Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource pursuant to §
15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
to § 15064.5?
c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of formal cemeteries?
3.5.1 S ETTING
The project site is a former mini-golf course with a building and associated parking lot. The building is not currently listed as historic resource. The project site lies within the ethnographic territory of the Nisenan, which are a distinct linguistic group that lives and lived within Yuba, Bear, American, and Feather River drainages and spread from the Sacramento Valley to the Sierra Nevada. Their fertile territory was rich with plant and animal life, which the Miwok hunted and gathered. Tule elk, mule deer, fish, several varieties of acorn, berries, and seed- bearing annual plants were just a few of the things that the Miwok would subsist on (Wilson and Towne 1978; 387).
3.5.2 R ESEARCH METHODOLOGY
BACKGROUND RESEARCH
Cultural Resources Inventory
AECOM requested a records search on April 4, 2023 of pertinent cultural resources information curated by the North Central Information Center of the California Historic Resources Information System, located at California State University, Sacramento. The records search response on April 6, 2023 included reviews of previously- conducted studies and known cultural resources within a ¼ mile radius of the project site.
The records search assesses the cultural sensitivity of the area by verifying the documentation of known cultural resources at or adjacent to the project site and thus assess the likelihood of the presence of unrecorded cultural resources. This assessment is based on the historical references and the distribution of previously recorded resources in the vicinity of the project site and developing a context for the identification and preliminary evaluation of cultural resources that may be present within the project site.
Six previously recorded cultural resources were identified within ¼-mile of the project site were identified by the records search. The project site is located within the P-34_000335 Folsom Mining District. Within a quarter mile lies the Sacramento Valley Railroad, California’s first passenger railroad P-34-000455 which is also parallel to P- ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources 3.5-2 City of Rancho Cordova 34-001678 (Folsom Boulevard) and P-34-002254, an historic water conveyance system. Also within the quarter mile radius is the Natomas-Aerojet Dredge Fields P-34-001710. All previously recorded resources are historic in nature.
Three previous studies were conducted within a quarter mile radius of the project site (see Tables 3.5-1 and 3.5- 2).
Table 3.5-1 Previous Investigations within the Project Study Area NCIC Report No Report Title Author and Date
002557 Finding of No Historic Properties Affected for the Proposed Folsom Widening Project, Sacramento County, California
Maniery, Mary 2000
002594 Historic Property Survey Report Folsom Boulevard Widening Project, Sacramento County, California.
Maniery, Mary and Tracy
D. Bakic 2000
002761 Historic Properties Survey Report Downtown Sacramento Amtrak and Folsom Corridor Light Rail Transit Extensions and Double Tracking Project
Waechter, Sharon 1999
Notes: NCIC = North Central Information Center; Report is on file at the NCIC Source: NCIC 2023; Data compiled by AECOM 2023.
Table 3.5-2 Previous Investigations Conducted within 0.25 miles of the Project Study Area NCIC Report No Report Title Author and Date
000247 Cultural Resource Assessment of the Natomas Station, Sacramento County, California.
Peak, Ann S. and
Associates 1978
008810 Cultural Resources Inventory, Westborough at Easton, Sacramento County, California
ECORP Consulting, Inc.
2007
010431 Cultural Resources Inventory and Evaluation for the Off-site VELB Preserve Area for the Glenborough at Easton and Easton Place Project, Sacramento County, California, Project No. 2009-165
Westwood, Lisa, and
Stephen Pappas, 2010
012346 Historic Property Survey Report for the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange, FWHA071120A
Nadolski, John 2007
013763 Cultural Resources Survey of the SA062 Rt 50 & Hazel Ave/B Telecommunication Project, Rancho Cordova, Trileaf. Project #679239 Solis, Laurie 2021
Notes: NCIC = North Central Information Center; All reports are on file at the NCIC VELB = Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
Source: NCIC 2023; Data compiled by AECOM 2023
CULTURAL RESOURCE FIELD INVESTIGATIONS
On April 7, 2023, AECOM Archaeologist Diana Ewing conducted a pedestrian survey of the project area. Where soils were visible transects of not less than nine feet were completed. The area was predominately paved with dilapidated structures from previous use as both a retail site and an early 1980s mini-golf course (see Exhibit
3.5-1 – Exhibit 3.5-6). Exhibit 3.5-5 shows the current billboard on the site while Exhibit 3.5-6 shows the pavement marks for the location of the newly proposed sign. No archaeological resources were observed.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.5-3 Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources
Exhibit 3.5-1 Former Mini Golf Course (West side of property)
Exhibit 3.5-2 Exposed soils on the southeastern side of the project site ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources 3.5-4 City of Rancho Cordova
Exhibit 3.5-3 Exposed soils behind former retail building
Exhibit 3.5-4 Paved area on northeastern portion of the project site ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.5-5 Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources
Exhibit 3.5-5 Current signage on the northeastern portion of the project site
Exhibit 3.5-6 Pavement marking location for proposed signage (looking southwest) ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources 3.5-6 City of Rancho Cordova
3.5.3 D ISCUSSION
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to § 15064.5?
No Impact. No historic resources have been identified on the project site. The unused commercial building on the project site is not listed as a historic resource but may not been evaluated for historical significance. Even if this building were a historical resource, installation of the digital billboard structures would not affect this structure, with the nearest construction site more than 200 feet to the west of it. Therefore, the proposed project would not a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5?
Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed project would involve ground disturbance to install monopoles to support the electronic billboards. An auger would be used to bore 4-foot-diameter by 50- foot-deep holes, which would involve removal of approximately 8 cubic yards of excess fill for each sign foundation. No significant archaeological resources have been identified on the project site. Based on the results of the archival research and field survey, there is low-to-moderate potential that archaeological resources would be encountered during ground-disturbing activities for the proposed project. Despite the limited extent of ground disturbance, if archaeological resources were encountered during these ground disturbing activities, this impact could be potentially significant.
Mitigation Measure CUL-1: Accidental Damage and Discovery Protocols The project applicant or its contractor shall retain a qualified archaeologist to undertake the tasks specified within this mitigation measure. In the event that suspected precontact or historic-period archaeological resources are encountered during debris removal, demolition, excavation, and/or grading of the site, all activity within a 50-foot radius of the find shall be stopped, the project applicant or designee shall be notified, and the qualified archaeologist shall examine the find. Project personnel shall not collect or move any cultural material. The archaeologist shall evaluate the find(s) to determine if it meets the definition of a historical, unique archaeological, and/or tribal cultural resource and follow the further procedures outlined below:
• If the finds do not meet the definition of a historical resource or unique archaeological resource, no further study or protection is necessary prior to resuming project implementation. • If the find(s) does meet the definition of a historical resource or unique archaeological resource, then it should be avoided by project activities. If avoidance is not feasible, as determined by the City of Rancho Cordova, the qualified archaeologist in consultation with the City, shall make appropriate recommendations regarding the treatment and disposition of such finds, and significant impacts to such resources shall be mitigated in accordance with the recommendations of the archaeologist prior to resuming construction activities within a 50-foot radius. • If human remains are encountered, project work shall stop in the vicinity of the remains and, as required by law, the Sacramento County Coroner would be notified immediately. An archaeologist also would be contacted to evaluate the find. If the human remains were determined of Native ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.5-7 Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources American origin, the coroner would need to notify the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of that determination. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, the NAHC, in turn, would immediately contact a Most Likely Descendent (MLD). The MLD would have 48 hours to inspect the site and recommend treatment of the remains. The project applicant and City shall coordinate with the MLD in good faith to find a respectful resolution to the situation and entertain all reasonable options regarding the descendants' preferences for treatment. • Recommendations for treatment and disposition of finds could include, but are not limited to, the collection, recordation, and analysis of any significant cultural materials, or the turning over of tribal cultural resources to tribal representatives for appropriate treatment. A report of findings documenting any data recovery shall be submitted to the Northwest Information Center (NWIC).
SIGNIFICANCE AFTER MITIGATION
Because this mitigation measure requires stopping work within the area of any potential find(s), and requires that a qualified archaeologist inspect the find and, in consultation with the City, make recommendations for avoiding or reducing impacts, implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1 would reduce impacts of the proposed project to undiscovered archaeological resources to less than significant with mitigation. c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Although a low potential would exist, the possibility of encountering human remains cannot be discounted. However, this impact would be reduced to a less-than- significant level with implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1 because this mitigation measure requires stopping work within the area of any potential find(s), and requires that a qualified archaeologist inspect the find and, in consultation with the City, make recommendations for avoiding or reducing impacts.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Cultural Resources 3.5-8 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.6-1 Environmental Checklist-Energy
3.6 ENERGY
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VI Energy. Would the project:
a) Result in potentially significant environmental
impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for
renewable energy or energy efficiency?
3.6.1 S ETTING
Electric services in the project area are provided by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD). SMUD has served Sacramento County since 1946 and is the nation’s sixth-largest community-owned electric utility (SMUD 2023). SMUD delivers electricity to an approximately 900 square-mile area within Sacramento County, serving 1.5 million people. SMUD’s primary power sources are natural gas, hydroelectric, and wind (SMUD 2021). Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) provides natural gas within the city of Rancho Cordova. The project would not require natural gas for operations, so PG&E’s capacity to supply natural gas is not discussed further in this Initial Study.
3.6.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation?
Less than Significant. Energy efficiency is a possible indicator of environmental impacts. The actual adverse physical environmental effects of energy use and the efficiency of energy use are detailed throughout this IS/MND in the environmental topic-specific sections. For example, the use of energy associated with electricity consumption leads to indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the impacts of which are addressed in Section
3.8, Greenhouse Gas Emissions. There is no physical environmental effect associated with energy use that is not addressed in the environmental topic-specific sections of this IS/MND.
Project activities would increase energy consumption for the duration of construction in the form of fossil fuels (e.g., gasoline, diesel fuel). Transportation energy use during construction would come from the transport and use of construction equipment (off-road), delivery and haul trucks (on-road), and construction employee passenger vehicles (on-road). Construction-related energy consumption would be limited to the short duration of construction (1 month) and would cease upon completion of construction activities. Project operations would result in energy consumption from the use of electricity to operate the billboards. As described in Section 2, Project Description, the billboards would be operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, and the brightness of the billboards would automatically adjust up or down based on ambient light conditions.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Energy 3.6-2 City of Rancho Cordova Construction and operational energy consumption associated with the project is summarized in Table 3.6-1.
Additional modeling assumptions and more details are provided in Section 3.3, Air Quality, and Appendix A.
Table 3.6-1 Construction and Operational Energy Consumption Energy Consuming Activity Energy Requirement Unit
Construction Diesel Consumption 1 1,841 Gallons
Construction Gasoline Consumption 1 100 Gallons
Operational Electricity Consumption 2 115,340 kWh/year
Notes: kWh/year = kilowatt hours per year
1 Construction-related energy consumption was estimated using the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions calculations for the construction activities and application of the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s CO2 emissions coefficients (EIA 2022) to estimate fuel consumption for construction activities.
2 Operational electricity consumption based on information provided by the manufacturer and an average energy consumption estimate of approximately 158 kilowatt-hours per day per sign.
Source: Modeled by AECOM in 2023.
Due to the short and temporary nature of construction, the anticipated equipment and minor construction work required for this project type, the project would not include unusual characteristics that would necessitate the use of construction equipment that is less energy-efficient than the equipment used at comparable construction sites.
In addition, construction contractors are required, in accordance with Mitigation Measure AIR-1 and the CARB Airborne Toxic Control Measure for Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling, to minimize the idling time of construction equipment and trucks by shutting equipment off when it is not in use and limit idling time to a maximum of 5 minutes. Per Mitigation Measure AIR-1, construction contractors would also be required to maintain and properly tune all construction equipment in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. These required practices would limit wasteful and unnecessary energy consumption.
Operational energy consumption would also be minor, and electricity used for the billboards would not be unnecessary since the purpose of the project is to operate two billboards that require electricity. Therefore, energy consumption associated with construction and operation of the project would not be inefficient, wasteful, or unnecessary.
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? No Impact. The project would not use land that was otherwise slated for renewable energy production and does not otherwise conflict with any state or local renewable energy plans. As described previously, the project’s operational energy demand would be limited to electricity consumption from the operation of the digital billboards and minor fuel consumption associated with infrequent maintenance-related vehicle trips. In addition, on-road and off-road equipment used during construction and maintenance of the digital billboards would comply with applicable off-road equipment and on-road vehicle regulations, which impose limits on idling and fuel use specifications and ensure fuel is used efficiently. The digital billboards would also be equipped with light emitting diode (LED) lights that are Underwriters Laboratories Environmental (UL-E) Green Leaf certified (Watchfire Signs 2011). Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and UL-E, working with the California Energy Commission and sign industry representatives, developed the program to assist sign manufacturers with testing and certifying products for their compliance to a variety of energy efficiency requirements, including those within Title 24 of the California Energy Commission’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Watchfire Signs 2011). Therefore, the project would not conflict with or obstruct any state or local plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.7-1 Environmental Checklist-Geology and Soils
3.7 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VII. Geology and Soils. Would the project:
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? (Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.)
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
topsoil?
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the
project, and potentially result in on- or off-site
landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18- 1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating
substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the
use of septic tanks or alternative waste water
disposal systems where sewers are not available for
the disposal of waste water?
f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
feature?
3.7.1 S ETTING
The project site is generally flat, with elevation above mean sea level ranging from approximately 125 to 135 feet.
There are no distinctive geological features. The project site is in an area of relatively low seismic potential. No ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Geology and Soils 3.7-2 City of Rancho Cordova earthquake faults are known to exist at or near the project site (City of Rancho Cordova and Caltrans 2014). The California Division of Mines and Geology map shows the eastern and central portions of Sacramento County, which include the project site, in a relatively low intensity ground-shaking zone. Liquefaction is considered to be low given the relatively dense/stiff nature of the soils underlying the project site, combined with the lack of groundwater in the upper 50 feet of soil.
The predominant soil type on site is Xerorthents, dredge tailings–urban land complex, 0–2 percent slopes, which consists of well-drained soils with high permeability and low water capacity. The shrink-swell potential for this soil series is low.
3.7.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? (Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42.)
No Impact. Surface rupture is an actual cracking or breaking of the ground along a fault during an earthquake and is generally limited to a linear zone a few yards wide. The project site is not located within an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone, nor is the site located within or immediately adjacent to the trace of any other known fault; therefore, surface fault rupture at the project site is unlikely. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
Less than Significant. The proposed project would install two digital advertising billboards on a vacant parcel located in a relatively low intensity ground-shaking zone. These structures would be required to follow the seismic standards of the most recent version of the California Building Code, which requires measures to ensure that structures can withstand the maximum expected ground shaking without catastrophic failure. Therefore, the proposed project would not directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving strong seismic ground shaking. iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Less than Significant. As noted above, the project site is located in a relatively low intensity ground-shaking zone. In addition, liquefaction is considered to be low given the relatively dense/stiff nature of the soils underlying the project site, combined with the lack of groundwater in the upper 50 feet of soil. Finally, the proposed sign structures would be required to follow the seismic standards of the most recent version of the California Building Code, which requires measures to ensure that structures can withstand the maximum expected ground shaking without catastrophic failure, including due to liquefaction. iv) Landslides?
No Impact. The topography at the project site and immediately adjacent to the project site is nearly level, with the average slope gradients across the project site less than 1 percent. In addition, there are no hillsides in adjacent areas that could affect the project site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.7-3 Environmental Checklist-Geology and Soils b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Less than Significant. Because the project site is flat, minimal grading is required. A small amount of fill would be imported to allow construction equipment to cross on-site drainage ditches. Up to 16 cubic yards of excess fill from bore holes drilled to install the sign structures may be temporarily stockpiled on site during construction prior to removal. However, soil erosion and loss of topsoil would be prevented during project construction through use of BMPs, such as silt fencing and fiber rolls. The project does not require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) or a grading permit from the City of Rancho Cordova due to its small size, as these small-scale projects on flat terrain typically do not have significant effects related to soil erosion. c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse?
Less-than-Significant. The project site does not contain the conditions that could result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse of the proposed sign structures. The potential for failure from subsidence, lateral spreading, and liquefaction is low because the groundwater table is at least 50 feet below ground surface, and there are no alluvial deposits. In addition, as noted above, the project site is located in a relatively low intensity ground-shaking zone.
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? Less than Significant. The predominant soil type on site is Xerorthents, dredge tailings–urban land complex, 0–2 percent slopes, which consists of well-drained soils with high permeability and low water capacity. The shrink- swell potential for this soil series is low.
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water?
No Impact. The proposed project is installation of two digital advertising billboards on a parcel with no active land uses. No use of an on-site wastewater disposal system is proposed, and no disposal of wastewater is required. f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature?
Less than Significant. The proposed project would be predominantly located in very highly disturbed soils—the majority of the soils in the project area comprise mine dredge tailings—and have no potential to contain paleontological resources. Further, as noted in the EIR prepared for the City of Rancho Cordova General Plan, a search of the University of California Museum of Paleontology collections database conducted for the General Plan EIR did not identify any evidence of significant paleontological resources in the Rancho Cordova Planning Area (City of Rancho Cordova 2006). The area does not appear sensitive for the presence of paleontological resources.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Geology and Soils 3.7-4 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.8-1 Environmental Checklist-Greenhouse Gas Emissions
3.8 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
VIII. Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly
or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on
the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the
emissions of greenhouse gases?
3.8.1 S ETTING
Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) play a critical role in determining the earth’s surface temperature. A portion of the solar radiation that enters earth’s atmosphere is absorbed by the earth’s surface, and a smaller portion of this radiation is reflected back toward space. Infrared radiation (i.e., thermal heat) is absorbed by GHGs; as a result, infrared radiation released from the earth that otherwise would have escaped back into space is instead “trapped,” resulting in a warming of the atmosphere. This phenomenon, known as the “greenhouse effect,” is responsible for maintaining a habitable climate on Earth.
GHGs are present in the atmosphere naturally, are released by natural sources, and are formed from secondary reactions taking place in the atmosphere. The following are GHGs that are widely seen as the principal contributors to human-induced global climate change: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6).
Global warming potential (GWP) is a concept developed to compare the ability of each GHG to trap heat in the atmosphere relative to CO
2. The GWP of a GHG is based on several factors, including the relative effectiveness of a gas to absorb infrared radiation and length of time (i.e., lifetime) that the gas remains in the atmosphere (“atmospheric lifetime”). The GWP of each gas is measured relative to CO2, the most abundant GHG. GHGs with lower emissions rates than CO2 may still contribute to climate change because they are more effective at absorbing outgoing infrared radiation than CO2 (i.e., high GWP). The concept of CO2-equivalents (CO2e) is used to account for the different GWP potentials of GHGs to absorb infrared radiation.
3.8.2 T HRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE
On May 1, 2023, the City of Rancho Cordova released the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (Draft CAAP) for public review. The purposes of the Draft CAAP are to identify strategies and measures the City can take to reduce GHG emissions to levels that align with the State’s goals and set forth strategies to adapt and promote resilience to the impacts of climate change (City of Rancho Cordova 2023). To reduce communitywide emissions in alignment with statewide targets, the Draft CAAP has established a 2030 target of achieving a GHG emissions level of 36 percent below 2019 levels (438,300 metric tons [MT] CO 2e annually); and a 2045 goal of
achieving a GHG emissions level of 81 percent below 2019 levels (129,300 MT CO2e annually). To achieve the ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Greenhouse Gas Emissions 3.8-2 City of Rancho Cordova 2030 target and to make substantial progress toward the 2045 goal, the Draft CAAP proposes a Strategy Framework consisting of 14 GHG reduction strategies, 34 GHG emission reduction measures, and supporting actions in the following sectors: On-Road Transportation, Building Energy, Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment, Water and Solid Waste, and Carbon Sequestration. The Draft CAAP was also prepared with the intent to be consistent with the provisions of CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5 so that development project applicants in the city would have the opportunity to streamline CEQA review for projects that are consistent with the Draft CAAP.
A project’s consistency with the Draft CAAP would be determined through the Consistency Checklist presented in Appendix G of the Draft CAAP. However, at the time of this analysis, the Draft CAAP has not been approved and Appendix G of the Draft CAAP, has not been released for public review.
Therefore, for the purposes of determining whether the project’s construction related and operational GHG emissions would result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impact of climate change, this analysis follows the guidance prepared by SMAQMD in its Guide to Air Quality Assessment in Sacramento County (CEQA Guide) (SMAQMD 2021). Table 3.8-1 lists the SMAQMD adopted thresholds of significance for GHG emissions.
Table 3.8-1 SMAQMD GHG Emissions CEQA Thresholds of Significance Phase Threshold
Construction 1,100 MT CO2e per year
Operational
1,100 MT CO2e per year and implementation of Tier 1 BMPs:
BMP 1: no natural gas: projects shall be designed and constructed without natural gas infrastructure.
BMP 2: Electric Vehicle (EV) ready: projects shall meet the current CalGreen Tier 2 standards, except all EV capable spaces shall be instead EV ready.
Source: SMAQMD 2021.
Notes:
BMP = best management practices; CalGreen = California Green Building Standards; CEQA = California Environmental Quality Act; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents; GHG = greenhouse gas emissions; MT = metric tons
Since the project includes the installation of two digital, electrical signs and operational activities would be limited to electricity consumption, BMP 1 and 2, which prohibit natural gas infrastructure and require the installation of electric vehicle (EV)-ready spaces for land uses that involve mobile source emissions, respectively, would not be applicable. Therefore, determining whether the project’s construction related and operational GHG emissions may result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impact of climate change, is based on SMAQMD’s threshold of 1,100 MT CO2e per year (SMAQMD 2021).
3.8.3 D ISCUSSION
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment?
Less than Cumulatively Considerable Impact. Construction-related exhaust GHG emissions would be generated from a variety of sources during construction of the project including, but not limited to heavy-duty construction equipment, haul trucks, material delivery trucks, and construction worker vehicles. Construction- related GHG emissions were estimated using the methodology discussed in Section 3.3, Air Quality. Operational GHG emissions would only consist of indirect GHG emissions from electricity consumption of the two ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.8-3 Environmental Checklist-Greenhouse Gas Emissions billboards. Based on information provided by the sign manufacturer, daily electricity consumption is estimated to be approximately 158 kilowatt-hours per sign. As described in Section 2, Project Description, the billboards would be operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and electricity would be supplied by SMUD. As such, the annual electricity consumption is estimated to be 115,340 kilowatt-hours per year. GHG emissions associated with this electricity consumption were estimated in the air pollutant emissions estimating software, CalEEMod, which utilizes the SMUD’s 2023 GHG intensity factors. Refer to Appendix A for additional details.
Table 3.8-2 presents a summary of the project’s total construction related GHG emissions and annual operational GHG emissions.
Table 3.8-2 GHG Emissions Summary
Description MT CO2e
Total Construction Emissions 19.4
SMAQMD Threshold (MT CO2e per year) 1,100
Annual Operational Emissions (MT CO2e per year) 17.2
SMAQMD Threshold (MT CO2e per year) 1,100
Exceeds Thresholds? No
Notes:
CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents; GHG = greenhouse gas emissions; MT = metric tons; SMAQMD = Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality District.
As shown in Table 3.8-1, the project’s construction and operational GHG emissions would not exceed the SMAQMD thresholds of significance of 1,100 MT CO2e per year. Therefore, the project’s construction and operational GHG emissions would result in a less than cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impact of climate change.
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Less than Cumulatively Considerable Impact. As discussed previously, the City of Rancho Cordova has prepared a Draft CAAP; however, this Draft CAAP has not been finalized at the time of this analysis. Therefore, this analysis is based on an evaluation of statewide plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions.
In accordance with State law, CARB developed the State’s Climate Change Scoping Plan (2008) and Scoping Plan updates (2014, 2017, and 2022) to outline the State’s strategy to reduce California’s GHG emissions per Assembly Bill (AB) 32, Senate Bill (SB) 32, and AB 1279. CARB’s Scoping Plan updates include measures that would indirectly address GHG emissions from construction activities, including the phasing in of cleaner technology for diesel engine fleets and the development of a Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Policies formulated under the mandate of AB 32 that apply to construction-related activity, either directly or indirectly, are assumed to be implemented statewide and would affect the project should those policies be implemented before construction begins.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Greenhouse Gas Emissions 3.8-4 City of Rancho Cordova As described previously, the long-term generation of GHG emissions associated with the project would be limited to electricity consumption. California established a Renewables Portfolio Standard, which requires retail sellers of electricity to meet specific goals of providing their energy supply from renewable sources. Per SB 100, electricity retailers are required to provide at least 60 percent of their supply from renewable sources by 2030. SB 100 also added the requirement that all state’s electricity must come from carbon-free resources by 2045. Therefore, these requirements would continue to reduce the carbon content of electricity generation and would reduce GHG emissions associated with the project’s electricity consumption.
Furthermore, the SMAQMD quantitative thresholds of significance for GHGs were developed with the intent to ensure at least 90 percent of new GHG emissions would be reviewed and assessed for mitigation, thereby contributing to GHG emissions reductions goals set forth by AB 32 and SB 32. As described in Section 3.8.3(a), the project would not exceed GHG emission thresholds established by SMAQMD, and the project would not include natural gas infrastructure nor generate mobile source emissions during operations. Due to the project’s consistency with the above-described plans, as well as not exceeding thresholds of significance, the project would not conflict with applicable plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purposes of reducing GHG emissions.
This impact would result in a less than cumulatively considerable contribution to the significant impact of climate change.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.9-1 Environmental Checklist-Hazards and Hazardous Materials
3.9 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
IX. Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset
and/or accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code §65962.5 and, as a result, would
it create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use
plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted,
within two miles of a public airport or public use
airport, would the project result in a safety hazard
for people residing or working in the project area?
f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere
with an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
g) Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or
death involving wildland fires?
3.9.1 S ETTING
USE OF AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS ON THE PROJECT SITE
Chemicals potentially used in agricultural activities could result in residual concentrations of persistent pesticides in the soil. Persistent pesticides leave residues that remain in the environment without breaking down, such as organochlorine pesticides (e.g., dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane [DDT], Toxaphene, and Dieldrin). There is no record of this project site being used for agriculture within the last century, thus it is unlikely that organochloride pesticides and other agrochemicals are present in on-site soils.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Hazards and Hazardous Materials 3.9-2 City of Rancho Cordova
RESULTS OF RECORDS SEARCH FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
AECOM searched the SWRCB’s GeoTracker web site and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s (DTSC’s) EnviroStor web site to identify toxic releases, hazardous waste, or other violations that could affect the project site (SWRCB 2023, DTSC 2023a). The project site is not listed as a hazardous waste site in either of these databases.
DTSC maintains a hazardous waste and substances site list (Cortese list) pursuant to Government Code Section 65962. As of January 2018, the project site is not on this list (DTSC 2023b).
In addition, AECOM searched the EPA’s Envirofacts database. The Envirofacts database is an assemblage of EPA databases, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (commonly known as Superfund) Information System database, which includes National Priorities List sites being assessed under the Superfund program, hazardous waste sites, and potentially hazardous waste sites. The project site is not listed in the Envirofacts database (EPA 2023).
SCHOOLS IN THE PROJECT VICINITY
No K–12 schools are located within 0.25 mile of the project site. The closest school to the project site is Gold River Elementary School located approximately 0.6 mile to the north.
AIRPORTS AND AIRSTRIPS
The closest airports to the project site are Mather Airport approximately 4.3 miles southwest and Sacramento McClellan Airport approximately 9 miles northwest. The project site is not located in the clear zone, approach- departure zone, or overflight zone of any airport. There are no private airstrips within 2 miles of the project site.
WILDFIRE RISK
The majority of Sacramento County is identified by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) as a Local Responsibility Area. Local Responsibility Areas (LRA), which are under the jurisdiction of local entities (e.g., cities, counties), are required to only identify very high fire hazard severity zones. The CAL FIRE map “Fire Hazard Severity Zones in LRA” for Sacramento County identifies the project site and surrounding area as not being within the Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, which indicates that the risk of wildland fire hazards is not considered moderate, high, or very high (CAL FIRE 2008).
3.9.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
Less than Significant. Project construction would involve the storage, use, and transport of small amounts of hazardous materials (e.g., asphalt, fuel, lubricants, paint, and other substances) on roadways, such as Folsom Boulevard and regional highways, such as US 50. Regulations governing hazardous materials transport are included in California Code of Regulations Title 22, the California Vehicle Code (California Code of Regulations Title 13). The transportation of hazardous materials is also subject to applicable local, State, and federal regulations, which have been specifically designed to minimize the risk of upset during routine construction ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.9-3 Environmental Checklist-Hazards and Hazardous Materials activities. State agencies with primary responsibility for enforcing federal and State regulations and responding to hazardous materials transportation emergencies consist of the California Highway Patrol and the California Department of Transportation. Together, these agencies determine container types used and license hazardous waste haulers for transportation of hazardous waste on public roads.
Construction contractors would be required to comply with California Environmental Protection Agency’s Unified Program; regulated activities would be managed by Sacramento County Department of Environmental Resources, the designated Certified Unified Program Agency for Sacramento County, in accordance with the regulations included in the Unified Program (e.g., hazardous materials release response plans and inventories, California Uniform Fire Code hazardous material management plans and inventories). Such compliance would reduce the potential for accidental release of hazardous materials during construction of the proposed project.
Construction and operation of the proposed project are required by law to implement and comply with existing hazardous material regulations. Each of these regulations is specifically designed to protect the public health through improved procedures for the handling of hazardous materials, better technology in the equipment used to transport these materials, and a more coordinated quicker response to emergencies. As the proposed project would comply with existing regulations, it would not create significant hazards to the public through routine, transport, use, disposal, and risk of upset.
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and/or accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment?
Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. AECOM searched the EPA’s Envirofacts, the SWRCB’s GeoTracker, and DTSC’s Envirostor web sites to identify toxic releases, hazardous waste, or other violations that could affect the site. The project site is not listed in these databases as a hazardous waste site (EPA 2023, SWRCB 2023, DTSC 2023a). Although the project site is not listed as a hazardous waste site and no hazardous wastes were observed during the site reconnaissance, there is the potential that subsurface hazardous waste may be encountered in on-site soils. The impact would be potentially significant.
Mitigation Measure: HAZ-1: Retain a Licensed Professional to Investigate Known or Unknown Hazards and Hazardous Materials and Implement Required Measures, as Necessary.
If, during site preparation and construction activities, evidence of hazardous materials contamination is observed or suspected (e.g., stained or odorous soil or groundwater), construction activities shall cease immediately in the area of the find. If such contamination is observed or suspected, the contractor shall retain a qualified hazardous materials specialist to assess the site and collect and analyze soil and/or water samples, as necessary. If contaminants are identified in the samples, the contractor shall notify and consult with the appropriate federal, State, and/or local agencies, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control. Measures to remediate contamination and protect worker health and the environment shall be implemented in accordance with federal, State, and local regulations before construction activities may resume at the site where contamination is encountered.
SIGNIFICANCE AFTER MITIGATION
Implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 would reduce the potentially significant impacts related to exposure to hazardous substances to a less-than-significant level because any hazardous substances would be ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Hazards and Hazardous Materials 3.9-4 City of Rancho Cordova removed and properly disposed of by a licensed contractor in accordance with federal, State, and local regulations, which are specifically designed to protect the public from human health hazards. c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? No Impact. The nearest school to the project site is located more than ½ mile to the north. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in hazardous emissions or handle acutely hazardous materials (i.e., waste containing such dangerous chemicals that it could pose a threat to human health and the environment even when properly managed) within 0.25 mile of an existing school. d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code § 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?
No Impact. The project site is not listed on a hazardous waste and substances site list (Cortese list) pursuant to Government Code Section 65962 (DTSC 2023b).
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? No Impact. The project site is not subject to any airport land use plan or located in the clear zone, approach- departure zone, or overflight zone of any airport. The closest public airport to the project site is the Mather Airport, located approximately 4.3 miles to the southwest, and McClellan Airport, approximately 9 miles northwest. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in safety hazards for people residing in the vicinity of a public airport.
f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
Less than Significant. Implementation of the proposed project would not interfere with any adopted emergency response or evacuation plans. During the one-month construction of the proposed digital billboards, construction vehicles would access the project site from Folsom Boulevard, a four-lane arterial that is easily passable by emergency vehicles. In addition, the project site contains ample unused parking areas for vehicle queueing and parking, which would prevent back-ups onto Folsom Boulevard. Because the proposed project would not obstruct a route that may be used in emergency evacuation, it would not substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. Further, operational traffic would be minimal and not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or evacuation plan. g) Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires?
No Impact. The project site is flat, mostly paved, surrounded by urban uses, and located in an area of low fire hazard severity. As the conditions for wildfire are not present, the proposed project would not expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.10-1 Environmental Checklist-Hydrology and Water Quality
3.10 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
X. Hydrology and Water Quality. Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
degrade surface or ground water quality?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
such that the project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river or through the addition of
impervious surfaces, in a manner which would:
i) Result in a substantial erosion or siltation on- or
off-site;
ii) Substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would result in
flooding on- or off-site;
iii) Create or contribute runoff water which would
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide
substantial additional sources of polluted runoff;
or
iv) Impede or redirect flood flows?
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to project inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water
quality control plan or sustainable groundwater
management plan?
3.10.1 S ETTING
The project site is within an urbanized area and is developed with a former mini-golf course, a building, and associated parking lot. The site is level and mostly covered with hardscape surfaces. The project area is situated over a shallow unconfined aquifer system, which is approximately 200 feet below ground surface, and a deeper confined groundwater aquifer system ranging from a few hundred feet to over 2,000 feet below ground surface (City of Rancho Cordova General Plan DEIR 2006).
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Hydrology and Water Quality 3.10-2 City of Rancho Cordova The surface water resources nearest the project site include the Folsom South Canal, Buffalo Creek, and the American River. The Folsom South Canal is located approximately 150 feet south of the project site. The Folsom South Canal is a concrete canal that diverts water from the American River at Nimbus Dam for irrigation, industrial and municipal water supply, and travels about 26.7 miles in a southerly direction to serve Sacramento and San Joaquin counties. Buffalo Creek is located approximately 315 feet south of the project site and is adjacent to the Folsom South Canal. The American River is located approximately 0.75 miles north of the project site and flows through the American River Parkway of open space greenbelt that provides flood protection and recreational opportunities within the City limits.
The Flood Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) classifies the project site as Zone X, an area of minimal flood hazard (FEMA 2012). The project site is not within a tsunami hazard zone (California DOC 2019) or in the vicinity of a reservoir, harbor, lake, or storage tank capable of creating a seiche.
3.10.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality?
Less than Significant. The proposed project would construct two digital billboards, supported by monopoles, on an existing 11.4-acre commercial site. The billboards would be located in two separate areas on the parcel.
Installation of the monopoles would require boring 4-foot-diameter by 50-foot-deep holes, which would include the removal of approximately eight cubic yards of excess fill for each sign foundation. This excess fill would either distributed on-site or hauled to an off-site use that requires fill. Short-term surface water quality impacts would potentially occur during construction-related activities such as grading (west location only), temporary placement of fill to allow construction equipment to cross on-site drainage ditches, drilling the excavated sign hole for the foundation, pouring concrete, and stockpiling excavated fill. Runoff of loose soils and/or construction wastes and equipment fuel during a rainstorm could flow into local storm drains. Such contaminated runoff could potentially threaten downstream water resources that receive runoff from the local drainage network. Because the unconfined aquifer system is approximately 200 feet or more below the ground surface, it is unlikely that groundwater would be encountered during boring to a depth of 50 feet.
Compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Area Wide Stormwater Program and the City’s standard storm water runoff provisions for construction activities, such as runoff control and other measures set forth in the City of Rancho Cordova Municipal Code Chapter 15.12 (Storm Water Management and Discharge Control) would ensure that the project does not violate any water quality standards or any waste discharge requirements during construction. Given the proposed project’s minimal impact area and implementation of project-incorporated water quality BMPs, construction activities would not lead to erosion or substantial contribution of polluted storm water runoff that would result in violation of any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements.
The City of Rancho Cordova is a member agency in the Sacramento Central Groundwater Authority (SCGA). To satisfy the California Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, SCGA is collaborating with the Omochumne- Hartnell Water District, Northern Delta, County of Sacramento, and Sloughhouse Resource Conservation District to develop a Groundwater Sustainability Plan for the South American Subbasin, a high priority subbasin within the larger Sacramento Valley Groundwater Basin (South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies 2021) South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.10-3 Environmental Checklist-Hydrology and Water Quality b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin?
Less than Significant. The proposed digital billboards would not require water to operate. The east sign (Area 2) would be installed in a paved area and therefore would not add to existing impervious surface area. The west sign (Area 1) would require installation of a foundation in an unpaved area; however, the increase in impervious surface area would be less than 13 square feet. Therefore, project development would not interfere substantially with any groundwater recharge from precipitation or on-site sheet flows. Therefore, the proposed project would not deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the proposed project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin. c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would:
i) Result in a substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site; Less Than Significant. The project site is within an urbanized area and is developed with a former mini-golf course with a building and associated parking lot. The site is level and mostly covered with hardscape surfaces, although it does contain ruderal grassland and trees, with the greatest extent west of the existing building.
Although some tree removal and minor grading would be required to install the west sign (Area 1), BMPs incorporated into the project would ensure containment of fill soils and stormwater City-required BMPs.
Therefore, the proposed project would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of a course, stream, or river, or through the addition of impervious surfaces as the installation of the proposed digital sign would occur in a developed paved area. ii) Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site;
Less than Significant. The project site is within an urbanized area and is developed with a former mini-golf course, a building and associated parking lot. The site is level and mostly covered with hardscape surfaces.
Construction of the proposed project involves two digital billboards, supported by monopoles, on an existing
11.4-acre commercial site. The billboards would be located in two separate areas on the parcel. The digital billboard pole would be backfilled, and the surrounding pole area would be incased in concrete, which would add an impervious surface area of less than 13 square feet. Because the proposed project involves minimal ground- disturbing activities, and any drainage pattern changes would be temporary and localized, the project would not substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner that would result in flooding on- or off-site. iii) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; or
No Impact. As discussed above under checklist items i) and ii) of this section, the proposed project would not alter drainage patterns on the site, nor would it substantially increase the number of impermeable surface area on the site because the project site is within an urbanized area and is developed with paved surfaces. As explained under checklist item a), the potential sources of stormwater pollutants associated with the proposed project would be limited to construction-related chemicals such as petroleum products used for construction equipment.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Hydrology and Water Quality 3.10-4 City of Rancho Cordova However, the duration of construction and the amount of equipment and ground disturbance required are short- term and limited. Additionally, the project would incorporate standard BMPs to minimize the potential for storm water contamination during construction. The operation of the digital billboard would not create a source of polluted runoff. Therefore, the proposed project would not create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff and no impact would occur.
iv) Impede or redirect flood flows?
No Impact. As discussed above under checklist item i), ii), and the Setting of this section, the project site is within an urbanized area and is developed with former commercial use. The project site is classified as Zone X, an area of minimal flood hazard (FEMA 2012). The project site is also 125-135 feet above elevation and would remain similar to existing conditions that do not impede or redirect flood flows. Additionally, the proposed project does not consist of housing or present a risk for flooding or redirection of flood flows. The proposed project is not anticipated to substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff during construction or operational activities and would not exceed the capacity of the existing/planned stormwater drainage systems in the project area. Therefore, the proposed project would not impede or redirect flood flows. d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to project inundation?
No Impact. As discussed under checklist item iv), the project site is classified as Zone X, an area of minimal flood hazard (FEMA 2012). In addition, the site is 130 feet above mean sea level, and the area is not seismically active. Additionally, the project site is not within a tsunami hazard zone (California DOC 2019) or in the vicinity of a reservoir, harbor, lake, or storage tank capable of creating a seiche. Therefore, the proposed project would not risk the release of pollutants due to project inundation. e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan?
No Impact. As discussed above, the proposed project would result in negligible impacts on water quality during the short-term construction process due to the handling, storage, and disposal of construction materials, maintenance and operation of construction equipment, and earthmoving activities. Project construction would not disturb more than one acre of soil and thus, would not be required to obtain coverage under the State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB’s) General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity Construction General Permit Order 2009-0009-DWQ (General Construction Permit).
Further, the proposed project would not require the use of groundwater and would not involve drilling any new groundwater wells. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with or obstruct the implementation of the South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.11-1 Environmental Checklist-Land Use and Planning
3.11 LAND USE AND PLANNING
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XI. Land Use and Planning. Would the project:
a) Physically divide an established community?
b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a
conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation
adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
3.11.1 S ETTING
The project site is within an urbanized area adjacent to a highway and is developed with commercial structures and paved surface parking lots. The proposed project involves the construction of two digital billboards, supported by monopoles, on an existing 11.4-acre commercial site. The billboards would be located in two separate areas on the parcel. The project site is bordered by railroad tracks, Folsom Boulevard, and US 50 to the north and Folsom South Canal on the south side consisting of open space and industrial uses. The unincorporated community of Gold River is located north of US 50.
The City’s General Plan land use designation is Folsom Boulevard Planning Area, and the current zoning is General Commercial (GC), which allows general commercial and industrial uses to implement the City’s commercial mixed-use and heavy industrial General Plan land use categories. These districts provide sufficient and appropriately located land for general commercial and industrial uses that minimize impacts on residential neighborhoods (City of Rancho Cordova Municipal Code Chapter 23.316 – General Commercial and Industrial Zones).
3.11.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Physically divide an established community?
No Impact. The project proposes to construct two advertising billboards with electronic displays on an existing
11.4-acre commercial site on the south side of US 50 in the City of Rancho Cordova. The billboards would be located in two separate areas on the parcel (see Exhibit 2.4-1). The nearest establish community (Gold River in unincorporated Sacramento County) is already separated from the project site by US 50. Therefore, the proposed project would not physically divide any established community. b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? No Impact. The proposed project would not introduce new uses or development of new buildings or structures that would conflict with the existing on-site General Plan designation or zoning. For an impact to be considered significant under this threshold, any inconsistency with applicable plans, policies, or regulations would also need to result in a significant adverse change in the environment not already addressed in the other resource sections of ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Land Use and Planning 3.11-2 City of Rancho Cordova this IS/MND. Those other resource sections discuss consistency of the proposed project with relevant plans, policies, and regulations, as appropriate; provide a detailed analysis of other relevant physical environmental effects that could result from implementation of the proposed project; and identify mitigation measures, as necessary, to reduce impacts. Implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with the adopted City General Plan policies or other land use plan, policy, or regulation that would generate any adverse physical impacts beyond those addressed in detail in the resource sections of this IS/MND.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.12-1 Environmental Checklist-Mineral Resources
3.12 MINERAL RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XII. Mineral Resources. Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally
important mineral resource recovery site delineated
on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land
use plan?
3.12.1 S ETTING
Under the State of California’s Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA), the State Mining and Geology Board may designate certain mineral deposits as being regionally significant to satisfy future needs. The Board’s decision to designate an area is based on a classification report prepared by the California Geological Survey and on input from agencies and the public.
In compliance with SMARA, the California Geological Survey has established the mineral resource zone (MRZ) classification system shown in Table 3.12-1 to denote both the location and significance of key extractive resources. The project site is not classified as either MRZ-2 or MRZ-3 (City of Rancho Cordova 2006). Therefore, it is unlikely that it contains significant mineral deposits.
Table 3.12-1 California Geological Survey Mineral Land Classification System Classification Description
MRZ-1 Areas where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence MRZ-1 Areas of mined-out PCC-grade aggregate resources
MRZ-2 Areas where adequate information indicates that significant mineral deposits are present or where it is judged that a high likelihood exists for their presence MRZ-3 Areas containing mineral deposits, the significance of which cannot be evaluated from available data MRZ-4 Areas where available data is inadequate for assignment to any other mineral resource zone Note:
MRZ = mineral resource zone; PCC = portland cement concrete
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Mineral Resources 3.12-2 City of Rancho Cordova
3.12.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state?
No Impact. No active mining operations are located within or in the vicinity of the project site. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state. No impact would occur. b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan? No Impact. No locally important mineral resource recovery sites are located within or in the vicinity of the project site. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan. No impact would occur.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.13-1 Environmental Checklist-Noise
3.13 NOISE
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIII. Noise. Would the project result in:
a) Generation of a substantial temporary or
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the
vicinity of the project in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance, or applicable standards of other
agencies?
b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
c) For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip or an airport land use plan or where such a
plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a
public airport or public use airport, would the
project expose people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
3.13.1 S ETTING
SOUND, NOISE, AND ACOUSTICS
Sound is the mechanical energy of a vibrating object transmitted by pressure waves through a liquid or gaseous medium (e.g., air). Noise is defined as sound that is unwanted (i.e., loud, unexpected, or annoying). Acoustics is the physics of sound.
The amplitude of pressure waves generated by a sound source determines the perceived loudness of that source. A logarithmic scale is used to describe sound pressure level in terms of decibels (dB). The threshold of human hearing (near-total silence) is approximately 0 dB. A doubling of sound energy corresponds to an increase of 3 dB. In other words, when two sources at a given location are each producing sound of the same loudness, the resulting sound level at a given distance from that location is approximately 3 dB higher than the sound level produced by only one of the sources. For example, if one automobile produces a sound pressure level of 70 dB when it passes an observer, two cars passing simultaneously do not produce 140 dB; rather, they combine to produce 73 dB.
The typical human ear is not equally sensitive to all frequencies of the audible sound spectrum. As a consequence, when assessing potential noise impacts, sound is measured using an electronic filter that de-emphasizes the frequencies below 1,000 hertz (Hz) and above 5,000 Hz in a manner corresponding to the human ears decreased sensitivity to low and extremely high frequencies instead of the frequency mid-range. This method of frequency weighting is referred to as A-weighting and is expressed in units of A-weighted decibels (dBA). All noise levels reported in this section are in terms of A-weighting. There is a strong correlation between A-weighted sound ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Noise 3.13-2 City of Rancho Cordova levels and community response to noise. As discussed above, doubling sound energy results in a 3-dB increase in sound. In typical noisy environments, noise-level changes of 1 to 2 dB are generally not perceptible by the healthy human ear; however, people can begin to detect 3-dB increases in noise levels. An increase of 5 dB is generally perceived as distinctly noticeable and a 10-dB increase is generally perceived as a doubling of loudness. The following are the sound level descriptors commonly used in environmental noise analysis:
► Equivalent sound level (Leq): An average of the sound energy occurring over a specified time period. In effect, the Leq is the steady-state sound level containing the same acoustical energy as the time-varying sound that actually occurs during the same period. The 1-hour, A-weighted equivalent sound level (Leq[h]) is the energy average of A-weighted sound levels occurring during a 1-hour period. ► Maximum sound level (Lmax): The highest instantaneous sound level measured during a specified period. ► Day-Night Noise Level (Ldn): The 24-hour Leq with a 10 dB “penalty” applied during nighttime noise- sensitive hours, 10:00 p.m. through 7:00 a.m. The Ldn attempts to account for the fact that noise during this specific period of time is a potential source of disturbance with respect to normal sleeping hours. ► Statistical Descriptor (Ln): The n-percent exceeded level, Ln, is the sound pressure level exceeded for n percent of the time. The noise level exceeded n percent of a specific period of time, generally accepted as an hourly statistic. An L10 would be the noise level exceeded 10 % of the measurement period.
Sound from a localized source (i.e., point source) propagates uniformly outward in a spherical pattern, and the sound level attenuates (decreases) at a rate of 6 dB for each doubling of distance from a point/stationary source.
Roadways and highways and, to some extent, moving trains consist of several localized noise sources on a defined path; these are treated as “line” sources, which approximate the effect of several point sources. Sound levels attenuate at a rate of 3 dB for each doubling of distance from a line source. Therefore, noise from a line source attenuates less with distance than noise from a point source with increased distance.
GROUNDBORNE VIBRATION
Groundborne vibration is energy transmitted in waves through the ground. Vibration attenuates at a rate of approximately 50 percent for each doubling of distance from the source. This approach considers only the attenuation from geometric spreading and tends to provide for a conservative assessment of vibration level at the receiver.
Vibration is an oscillatory motion that can be described in terms of the displacement, velocity, or acceleration.
Vibration typically is described by its peak and root-mean-square (RMS) amplitudes. The RMS value can be considered an average value over a given time interval. The peak vibration velocity is the same as the “peak particle velocity” (PPV), generally presented in units of inches per second. PPV is the maximum instantaneous positive or negative peak of the vibration signal and is generally used to assess the potential for damage to buildings and structures. The RMS amplitude typically is used to assess human annoyance to vibration, and the abbreviation “VdB” is used in this document for vibration decibels to reduce the potential for confusion with sound decibels.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.13-3 Environmental Checklist-Noise
EXISTING NOISE ENVIRONMENT
Noise-sensitive land uses are those uses for which quiet is an essential element of the purpose and function of the subject land use. Residential uses are of primary concern because of the potential for increased and prolonged exposure of individuals to both interior and exterior noise levels. Schools, places of worship, hotels, libraries, health facilities, and other places where low interior noise levels are essential are also considered noise-sensitive land uses. Parks, historic sites, cemeteries, and recreation areas are also considered sensitive to increases in exterior noise levels.
The project site is located on the south side of US 50 and Folsom Boulevard between Sunrise Boulevard and Hazel Avenue in the city of Rancho Cordova. Noise-sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the project site include single-family residential uses north of US 50.
The existing noise environment within the project area is primarily influenced by surface transportation noise emanating from vehicular traffic on US 50 and Folsom Boulevard. Intermittent noise from rail traffic south of and parallel to US 50 and Folsom Boulevard also contribute to the project area noise environment. There is no current freight train activity in the city of Rancho Cordova, but the city is served by Regional Transit Light Rail along the Folsom Boulevard / US 50 corridor. Light rail passages in the project area generate noise level of 60 dB L dn, at
100 to 500 feet from center line of tracks (City of Rancho Cordova 2006). In the unincorporated community of Gold River on the north side of US 50, intermittent noise from outdoor activities at residences (e.g., people talking, operation of landscaping equipment, car doors slamming, and dogs barking), also influences the existing noise environment.
Existing traffic noise in the vicinity of the project site was estimated using traffic volumes along US 50, which are shown in Table 3.13-1. Estimated existing traffic noise in the project vicinity would be 78 dBA L eq at 150 feet,
which is the distance to the nearest noise-sensitive uses from the US 50 centerline (residences north of US 50).
Modeled roadway noise levels assume no natural or artificial shielding between the roadway and the residences.
There is a sound wall along US 50 between the receptors and the freeway, which would reduce the traffic noise from the US 50 by approximately 10 dB. Therefore, existing noise from the freeway would be at or below 68 dB at the nearest residences to the project site. Current City standard noise exposure maximums for transportation noise sources is 60 dB L
eq (City of Rancho Cordova 2006).
Table 3.13-1 Summary of Existing Traffic Noise Level in the Vicinity of the Project Site Roadway Segment
Traffic Volume
(Peak Hour)
Distance
(Feet)
Noise Level,
dB, Leq
Contour Distances
70 dB 65 dB 60 dB
US 50 Sunrise Boulevard to Nimbus Road 12,100 150 78 897 2,835 8,966 Notes: dB = decibels; Leq = equivalent sound level (the sound energy averaged over a continuous period of time); US 50 = Highway 50 Modeled roadway noise levels assume no natural or artificial shielding between the roadway and the receptor.
Source: Caltrans 2020a, Data compiled by AECOM in 2023.
REGULATORY SETTING
According to the City of Ranch Cordova’s General Plan, impacts to adjacent land uses from stationary sources of noise in the City are limited to 55 dB Leq in daylight hours and 45 dB Leq during nighttime hours. A reduction in 5 ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Noise 3.13-4 City of Rancho Cordova dB Leq (to 50/40 dB Leq) is mandated for uses that generate tonal, repetitive, or impulsive noise. Impulsive noise is defined as sound of short duration, usually less than one second, with an abrupt onset and decay. Impulsive sounds include explosions, drop forge impacts, and the discharge of firearms. Tonal noises are generally defined as any sound which can be distinctly heard as a single pitch or a set of single pitches. Repetitive noise is generally defined as noises that are regularly repeated in such a manner as to cause annoyance. For example, back-up “beepers” and pile drivers are both sources of repetitive noise.
The City’s noise ordinance, which is based on the County noise ordinance, establishes maximum allowable exterior and interior noise levels for affected land uses. The ordinance generally limits exterior noise levels (measured at residential land and agricultural land uses) to a maximum of 55 dBA during any cumulative 30- minute period during the daytime hours (7 a.m.–10 p.m.), and 50 dBA during any cumulative 30-minute period during the nighttime hours (10 p.m.–7 a.m.). The ordinance sets somewhat higher noise limits for noise of shorter duration; however, noise shall not exceed 75 dBA during the day and 70 dBA at night. Activities generally considered to be exempt from the noise standards include construction activities (provided that they occur between the daytime hours of 7 a.m.– 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday), school athletic and entertainment events, activities conducted on public parks and playgrounds, and transportation noise.
3.13.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies?
SHORT-TERM PROJECT-GENERATED CONSTRUCTION NOISE
Less than Significant. Construction of the two proposed digital billboards on the project site would include site preparation (e.g., minor grading); material (prefabricated sign structures) transport; drilling to bore 4-foot- diameter by 50-foot-deep holes and installing the monopoles in the holes and lift the sign parts in the air for attachment to the monopoles. Some trees on-site would also be removed. Therefore, project construction equipment would include a backhoe (for minimal grading), an auger (for drilling), trucks for material transport, concrete truck, and a crane to install the poles and the two sign boards. A chain saw and backhoe would be used for tree removal. Based upon the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) (FHWA 2006), noise levels for individual project equipment can range from 70 dB to 75 dB, L eq and 74
to 79 dB Lmax at 50 feet, as shown in Table 3.13-2.
The nearest residential uses to the project site are located approximately 400 feet from the project site on the north side of US 50. Based upon the equipment noise levels, usage factors, and a typical noise-attenuation rate of 6 dB for every doubling of distance, exterior noise levels at noise-sensitive receptors located within 400 feet of the project site could be as high as 52 dB to 57 dB Leq from the project construction activities. Also, a sound wall is located between the construction site and the nearest residences, which would provide at least 5 to 10 dB reduction in noise, reducing the project construction noise to below 50 dB, L eq. This level of noise is below the
City’s threshold of 55 dB for station noise sources. This level is also lower than estimated existing ambient conditions. Therefore, construction of the proposed project would not generate a substantial temporary increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.13-5 Environmental Checklist-Noise Table 3.13-2 summarizes modeled construction noise levels at nearest noise-sensitive locations to the project site.
Table 3.13-2 Project Construction Noise Levels
Receiver
Noise Level, dBA Leq, at
50 feet
Noise Level, dBA Lmax, at
50 feet
Noise Level, dBA Leq, at
400 feet
Noise Level, dBA Lmax, at
400 feet
Drill Rig Truck 72 79 54 61
Backhoe 74 78 56 60
Flat Bed Truck 70 74 52 56
Concrete Mixer Truck 75 79 57 61
Pickup Truck 71 75 53 57
Refer to Appendix C for modeling input parameters and output results. dBA = A-weighted decibels; FHWA = Federal Highway Administration; Leq = Equivalent Noise Level; Lmax = Instantaneous Maximum Noise Level.
Sources: FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model, January 2006; Modeled by AECOM 2023
LONG-TERM PROJECT-GENERATED STATIONARY NOISE
Less than Significant. Because the proposed digital billboards are electronic and only generate images, not sound, noise emissions from their operation would be negligible. Therefore, operation of the proposed project would not create a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards. b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? Less than Significant. Construction activities have the potential to result in varying degrees of temporary groundborne vibration, depending on the specific construction equipment used and operations involved. Vibration generated by construction equipment spreads through the ground and diminishes in magnitude with increases in distance.
As discussed above, on-site construction equipment could include a drill rig truck. According to Federal Transit Administration (FTA 2018), vibration levels associated with the use of a caisson drilling1 is 0.089 inches per second (in/sec) PPV and 87 vibration decibels [VdB referenced to 1 microinch per second (μin/sec) and based on the RMS velocity amplitude] at 25 feet.
Using FTA’s recommended procedure for applying a propagation adjustment to these reference levels, predicted worst-case vibration levels of approximately 0.001 in/sec PPV and 51 VdB at the closest existing sensitive receptor, located at 400 feet from the project site, could occur. These vibration levels would not exceed Caltrans’s recommended standard of 0.2 in/sec PPV (Caltrans 2020b) with respect to the prevention of structural damage for normal buildings or the FTA’s maximum-acceptable vibration standard of 80 VdB (Federal Transit Administration 2018) with respect to human annoyance for residential uses. The long-term operation of the proposed project would not include any vibration sources, and short-term construction would not result in the
1 Conservatively, assuming a drill rig truck would generate the same level of vibration as a Caisson Drilling. Caisson Drilling is a method used to drill a hole and then insert either a temporary or permanent steel casing in the hole to the desired depth. A drilling rig is an integrated system that drills wells, such as oil or water wells, or holes for piling and other construction purposes, into the earth's subsurface.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Noise 3.13-6 City of Rancho Cordova exposure of persons or structures to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels.
c) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
No Impact. The project site is not located within 2 nautical miles of an airport. The closest airport is Mather Airport, which is located approximately 4.3 miles to the southwest of the project site. Thus, the project would not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.14-1 Environmental Checklist-Population and Housing
3.14 POPULATION AND HOUSING
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIV. Population and Housing. Would the project:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area,
either directly (for example, by proposing new
homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
3.14.1 S ETTING
According to the US Census, 64,776 people were living in the city of Rancho Cordova in 2010 (U.S. Census Bureau 2022). The 2020 population was estimated to be 79,332, a 22.4-percent increase over the decade. The population in 2021 was estimated to be 80,413, an increase of 1.4 percent from 2020.
3.14.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
No Impact. Construction of the digital billboards is expected to occur over the period of one month in fall 2023.
The project could require a small number of workers during site preparation, grading, and construction. The source of the construction labor force is unknown at this time, but workers would likely come from the local labor pool. It is not anticipated that workers would relocate to the project area from other areas in the county or region.
Operation and maintenance of the billboards would not require additional labor but would be managed using existing staff of the lessor/operating company. Therefore, the proposed project would not directly or indirectly induce significant population growth in the area that could lead to any adverse physical environmental impact. b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
No Impact. There are no existing residences within the project site. Therefore, the proposed project would not displace existing housing, displace a substantial number of people, or necessitate the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Population and Housing 3.14-2 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.15-1 Environmental Checklist-Public Services
3.15 PUBLIC SERVICES
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XV. Public Services. Would the project:
a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts
associated with the provision of new or physically
altered governmental facilities, need for new or
physically altered governmental facilities, the
construction of which could cause significant
environmental impacts, in order to maintain
acceptable service ratios, response times, or other
performance objectives for any of the public
services:
Fire protection?
Police protection?
Schools?
Parks?
Other public facilities?
3.15.1 S ETTING
The proposed project site is located in an area served by the following public service districts:
► Fire Protection: Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (SMFD) ► Police Protection: Rancho Cordova Police Department (RCPD) ► School District: Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) ► Park District: Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) ► Electrical Service: Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD)
3.15.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for any of the public services:
Fire protection?
No Impact. The proposed project involves the construction of two digital billboards, supported by monopoles, on an existing 11.4-acre commercial site. The billboards would be located in two separate areas on the parcel. The proposed project would not include residential or employment uses that would increase the number of people ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Public Services 3.15-2 City of Rancho Cordova requiring fire protection services. In addition, the temporary construction workforce would be locally sourced rather than requiring workers to relocate to the area. Therefore, no expansion of fire protection services would be required.
Police protection?
No Impact. As discussed above, construction and operation of the proposed project would include housing or employment uses that would create a need for new or additional police protection services or facilities to maintain acceptable police protection performance objectives.
Schools?
No Impact. For the reasons discussed above, the proposed project would not increase the demand for or cause school services or a facilities shortfall. Therefore, the proposed project would not impact schools or increase school service or facility demand.
Parks?
No Impact. The proposed project would not increase the population in the project area as a result of new housing or employment opportunities. Therefore, the proposed project would not increase the use of existing neighborhood or community parks or require the construction of new parks to meet the City’s parkland standard.
Other public facilities?
No Impact. The proposed project would not increase the population as a result of new housing or employment opportunities. Therefore, the operation of the proposed project would not increase demand for other public facilities.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.16-1 Environmental Checklist-Recreation
3.16 RECREATION
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVI. Recreation. Would the project:
a) Would the project increase the use of existing
neighborhood and regional parks or other
recreational facilities such that substantial physical
deterioration of the facility would occur or be
accelerated?
b) Does the project include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities that might have an adverse
physical effect on the environment?
3.16.1 S ETTING
The current General Plan land use designation of the project site is Folsom Boulevard Planning Area, and the current zoning is General Commercial (GC). The project site is a former mini-golf course with a building and associated parking lot. The site is level and mostly covered with hardscape surfaces, although it does contain ruderal grassland and trees. The nearest recreational facility is Prospect Hill Park, which is approximately 2,000 feet northwest of the project site.
3.16.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?
No Impact. As discussed in Section 3.14, the proposed project would not increase population as a result of new housing or employment opportunities. Therefore, the proposed project would not increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities. b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? No Impact. The proposed project is construction and operation of two digital billboards. It does not include recreational facilities.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Recreation 3.16-2 City of Rancho Cordova
This page intentionally left blank.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.17-1 Environmental Checklist-Transportation
3.17 TRANSPORTATION
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVII. Transportation. Would the project:
a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy
addressing the circulation system, including
transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines§ 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
3.17.1 S ETTING
The project site is located on the south side of US 50 and Folsom Boulevard between Sunrise Boulevard and Hazel Avenue in the city of Rancho Cordova. The site is bordered by railroad tracks, Folsom Boulevard, and US 50 to the north and by Folsom South Canal on the south side. Site access is through an existing driveway on the south side of Folsom Boulevard at approximately the mid-point of the site.
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15064.3
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, Determining the Significance of Transportation Impacts, states that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is the most appropriate measure of transportation impacts and provides lead agencies with the discretion to choose the most appropriate methodology and thresholds for evaluating VMT. The City of Rancho Cordova has adopted the Transportation Impact Guidelines to assist projects in assessing transportation impacts under CEQA pursuant to SB 743 and CEQA Guidelines § 15064.3, Subdivision (b) (City of Rancho Cordova 2020). The City’s guidance contains screening criteria, significance thresholds, analysis methodology, and mitigation recommendations.
3.17.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? Less than Significant. During the one-month construction of the proposed digital billboards, construction vehicles would access the project site from Folsom Boulevard using the existing driveway. These trips would include delivery of construction equipment (a backhoe and crane), delivery of a small amount of fill to allow truck access to the sign sites, delivery of the sign parts to be assembled, and arrival and departure of construction workers. Operation and maintenance of the digital billboards would require only occasional visits by ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Transportation 3.17-2 City of Rancho Cordova lessee/operator staff. All construction activities and staging would occur on the project site and would not alter public rights-of-way. Because these activities would be temporary, confined to the project site, and not alter transportation facilities, the proposed project would not conflict with City policies related to transportation, transit, pedestrian, or bicycle networks.
b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines § 15064.3, subdivision (b)? Less than Significant. As discussed under checklist item a) above, installation of the digital billboards would generate construction-related trips over a one-month period. Construction trips are not new trips but are existing trips redistributed over the regional transportation network to construction sites over time. In addition, the project’s construction trips would be temporary. Therefore, construction activities would not substantially increase VMT in the region. Operation and maintenance of the digital billboards would require visits by lessee/operator staff that would not exceed one visit per month The City’s Transportation Impact Guidelines include a small-project screening criteria for projects that generate less than 237 daily trips. As the proposed project’s operational trips would be far below this screening level, it can be presumed that it would not substantially increase VMT in the region.
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? No Impact. The proposed project would not involve the creation or alteration of roadways; therefore, would not result in the creation of unsafe geometric design features. Construction-related traffic would use the existing site driveway, and all construction activities and staging would occur on the project site. d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
Less than Significant. During the one-month construction of the proposed digital billboards, construction vehicles would access the project site from Folsom Boulevard, a four-lane, east-west arterial that is straight and easily passable by emergency vehicles. In addition, the project site contains ample unused parking areas for vehicle queueing and parking, which would prevent back-ups onto Folsom Boulevard. For these reasons, the proposed project would not result in inadequate emergency access.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.18-1 Environmental Checklist-Tribal Cultural Resources
3.18 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XVIII Tribal Cultural Resources. Would the project:
a) Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource,
defined in Public Resources Code § 21074 as either
a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is
geographically defined in terms of the size and
scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with
cultural value to a California Native American tribe,
and that is:
i Listed or eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, or in a local
register of historical resources as defined in
Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or
ii A resource determined by the lead agency, in its
discretion and supported by substantial
evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria
set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources
Code § 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth
in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code §
5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the
significance of the resource to a California
Native American tribe.
3.18.1 S ETTING
CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY FOR IDENTIFICATION OF TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES Tribal cultural resources are defined in CEQA as a site, feature, place, cultural landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, which may include non-unique archaeological resources previously subject to limited review under CEQA.
ASSEMBLY BILL 52 NATIVE AMERICAN CONSULTATION
In compliance with AB 52, Native American consultation was initiated for the proposed project. The NAHC was contacted on April 4, 2023 to obtain a CEQA tribal consultation list and to request a search of the Sacred Lands File. No response was received as of the September release of the IS/MND.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Tribal Cultural Resources 3.18-2 City of Rancho Cordova
3.18.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code § 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is:
i) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), ii) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code § 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code § 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.
Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. No tribal cultural resources have been identified on the project site. In addition, as discussed in Section 3.5 of this Initial Study, no significant archaeological resources have been identified on the project site that may have associations with tribal cultural resources. Based on the results of the archival research and field survey, there is low- to- moderate potential that archaeological resources would be encountered during ground-disturbing activities for the proposed project. However, despite the limited extent of ground disturbance, if archaeological resources associated with tribal cultural resources were encountered during these ground disturbing activities, this impact could be potentially significant.
SIGNIFICANCE AFTER MITIGATION
Because Mitigation Measure CUL-1 requires stopping work within the area of any potential find(s), and requires that a qualified archaeologist inspect the find and, in consultation with the City, make recommendations for avoiding or reducing impacts, this mitigation would reduce impacts of the proposed project to undiscovered archaeological resources that may be associated with unidentified tribal cultural resources to less than significant with mitigation.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.19-1 Environmental Checklist-Utilities and Service Systems
3.19 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XIX. Utilities and Service Systems. Would the project:
a) Require or result in the relocation or construction
of new or expanded water, or wastewater
treatment facilities or storm water drainage,
electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications
facilities, the construction or relocation of which
could cause significant environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve
the project and reasonably foresee future
development during normal, dry and multiple dry
years?
c) Result in a determination by the waste water
treatment provider, which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project’s projected demand in addition to the
provider’s existing commitments?
d) Generate solid waste in excess of state or local
standards, or in excess of the capacity of local
infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment
of solid waste reduction goals?
e) Comply with federal, State, and local management
and reduction statutes and regulations related to
solid waste?
3.19.1 S ETTING
Electrical service to the project site is provided by Sacramento Municipal Utility District. Water service is provided by Golden State Water Company. Wastewater service is provided by Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District. Hughes Internet Wireless Service provides telecommunications services (e.g., data/internet access).
3.19.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, or wastewater treatment facilities or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Utilities and Service Systems 3.19-2 City of Rancho Cordova telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects?
No Impact. The proposed digital billboards would access existing electric power and internet services, which are adequate to serve this use. The proposed project does not require water, wastewater, or natural gas services. For these reasons, the project would not require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded utilities or service systems.
b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foresee future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years? No Impact. The proposed project, digital billboards, does not require water service. c) Result in a determination by the waste water treatment provider, which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand, in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
No Impact. The proposed project, digital billboards, does not require wastewater service. d) Generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? Less than Significant. Installation of the digital billboards would not involve demolition of existing structures.
Construction of each sign foundation would generate approximately 8 cubic feet of excess fill. Since this soil is anticipated to be clean, it will either be distributed on site or trucked to another construction project that requires fill. For these reasons, the proposed project would not generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals. e) Comply with federal, State, and local management and reductions statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
No Impact. As discussed under checklist item d), the proposed project would not generate solid waste.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.20-1 Environmental Checklist-Wildfire
3.20 WILDFIRE
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XX Wildfire. Would the project:
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response
plan or emergency evacuation plan?
b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors,
exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project
occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire
or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency
water sources, power lines or other utilities) that
may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in
temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment?
d) Expose people or structures to significant risks,
including downslope or downstream flooding or
landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope
instability, or drainage changes?
3.20.1 S ETTING
The project site is level and mostly covered with hardscape surfaces, although it does contain ruderal grassland and trees, with the greatest extent west of the existing building. It is bordered by railroad tracks, Folsom Boulevard, and US 50 to the north and by Folsom South Canal on the south side. It is located in a Local Responsibility Area for fire protection and is located outside of areas designated by Cal Fire as moderate-to-very high fire hazard severity (CalFire Fire and Resource Assessment Program 2007).
3.20.2 D ISCUSSION
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
Less than Significant. During the one-month construction of the proposed digital billboards, construction vehicles would access the project site from Folsom Boulevard, a four-lane, east-west arterial that is straight and easily passable by emergency vehicles. In addition, the project site contains ample unused parking areas for vehicle queueing and parking, which would prevent back-ups onto Folsom Boulevard. Because the proposed project would not obstruct a route that may be used in emergency evacuation, it would not substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Wildfire 3.20-2 City of Rancho Cordova b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
Less than Significant. As noted above, the project site is located outside of areas designated by Cal Fire as moderate-to-very high fire hazard severity. The site is flat and surrounded by urban uses. The proposed project is construction and operation of digital billboards and would not require people to occupy the site except during the one-month construction period and for occasional maintenance visits. Therefore, the proposed project would not exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire.
c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? No Impact. The proposed project is construction and operation of digital billboards on a site that is flat, mostly paved, and surrounded by urban uses. Therefore, it would not require installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment. d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes?
No Impact. The project site is flat, mostly paved, surrounded by urban uses, and located an area of low fire hazard severity. As the conditions for wildfire are not present, the proposed project would not expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.21-1 Environmental Checklist-Mandatory Findings of Significance
3.21 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Impact
XXI. Mandatory Findings of Significance.
a) Does the project have the potential to
substantially degrade the quality of the
environment, substantially reduce the habitat of
a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels,
threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the
range of an endangered, rare, or threatened
species, or eliminate important examples of the
major periods of California history or
prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable”
means that the incremental effects of a project
are considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the effects of
other current projects, and the effects of
probable future projects.)
c) Does the project have environmental effects that
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly?
Authority: Public Resources Code Sections 21083, 21083.5.
Reference: Government Code Sections 65088.4.
Public Resources Code Sections 21080, 21083.5, 21095; Eureka Citizens for Responsible Govt. v. City of Eureka (2007) 147 Cal.App.4th 357; Protect the Historic Amador Waterways v. Amador Water Agency (2004) 116 Cal.App.4th at 1109; San Franciscans Upholding the Downtown Plan v. City and County of San Francisco (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 656.
3.21.1 D ISCUSSION
a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare, or threatened species, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory?
Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. As described in Section 3.4, “Biological Resources,” implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 would reduce potentially significant impacts on protected trees and nesting birds to a less-than-significant level.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Mandatory Findings of Significance 3.21-2 City of Rancho Cordova As discussed in Section 3.5, “Cultural Resources,” implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 would reduce potentially significant impacts resulting from inadvertent damage or destruction of significant cultural resources, unique paleontological resources, and inadvertent disturbance to human remains to a less-than-significant level.
Therefore, with implementation of outlined mitigation measures, the proposed project would result in less-than- significant impacts involving the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of fish or wildlife species, cause fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major period of California history or prehistory. b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.) Less-than-Significant Impact. The geographic context for cumulative impacts is generally limited to the immediate vicinity of the project site with the exception of air quality and greenhouse gas impacts, which are more regional. Past, present, and foreseeable future projects in the vicinity of the project site include:
► Development and ongoing operation of the adjacent transportation networks (railroad, Folsom Boulevard, US 50), Folsom South Canal, and surrounding commercial and residential development; ► Construction and operation of the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project, which would cross the west end of the project site; and
► Future development of the 1,665-acre Westborough Specific Plan directly south of the project site.
Air quality and greenhouse gas impacts are inherently cumulative by nature, and the impact discussions in Sections 3.3 and 3.8 already consider potential cumulative impacts, which were found to be less than significant or less than significant with mitigation.
Because the majority of project impacts would be short-term, localized impacts that would only occur during the one-month construction period of project implementation, and because none of the past or future projects would overlap with that implementation period, there would be no potential for short-term impacts such as disturbance of wildlife species, construction noise, water quality, or traffic safety to combine with the impacts of other projects to cause a significant cumulative impact.
Potential longer-term visual/aesthetic impacts resulting from the proposed project include changes to the visual character of the site in combination with the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project, which includes an overpass approximately 150 feet east of the west location sign (see Exhibit 2.4-2). Exhibit 2.4-4 shows the plan view of the west location sigh with the overpass in the background. The Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment with Finding of No Significant Impact (City of Rancho Cordova 2014) evaluated aesthetic impacts associated with the height and location of the proposed interchange structure as well as lighting impacts. The visual analysis determined that the proposed interchange structure would create a new visually dominant feature within the US 50/Folsom Boulevard corridor, although viewer response from eastbound travelers was anticipated to be low to moderate due to the short duration of exposure. Mitigation measures are incorporated into the project to require design features to soften the visual appearance of the interchange structure ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 3.21-3 Environmental Checklist-Mandatory Findings of Significance and to blend in to the surrounding visual setting, such as using landscaping techniques and aesthetic treatments on the hardscape elements of the project, including the overcrossing structure, ramps, retaining walls, and sound walls. However, it was concluded that visual impacts would be considered significant and unavoidable due to the large scale of the interchange structure. This would be a significant cumulative impact.
As shown on Exhibit 2.4-4, the west location digital reader board sign proposed at the west location would be visible above the overpass, which would also include an eastbound on-ramp adjacent to the north side of Folsom Boulevard. However, the proposed project would not have a significant impact on the visual character as it would tend to blend into an already urban environment with visual changes, such as US 50, the Rancho Cordova Parkway Overpass, Folsom Boulevard, chain-link fencing, and power lines that have already reduced visual quality of the area. In addition, the project would comply with City of Rancho Cordova ordinance code for digital freeway signs and tree preservation. Therefore, the proposed project’s contribution to a cumulative impact would not be considerable, and the cumulative impact related to visual character or quality would be less than significant.
c) Does the project have environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed project could potentially cause substantial adverse effects on human beings in relation to air quality. However, the proposed project would implement a mitigation measure identified in the air quality section of this IS/MND. This mitigation measure would reduce potentially significant impacts in this resource area to a less-than-significant level. In addition, the proposed project would comply with all applicable regulations identified throughout the IS/MND. As such, the proposed project would not cause a substantial direct or indirect adverse effect on human beings.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
Environmental Checklist-Mandatory Findings of Significance 3.21-4 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 4-1 References
4 REFERENCES
CHAPTER 1. I NTRODUCTION
None.
CHAPTER 2. P ROJECT DESCRIPTION
City of Rancho Cordova and State Department of Transportation. 2014. Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project. Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment with Finding of No Significant Impact.
CHAPTER 3. ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
None.
SECTION 3.1 A ESTHETICS
California Department of Transportation. 1998. Barclays California Code of Regulations. Title 4. Business Regulations. Chapter 3.5. Application, Permit, and License Administration for Outdoor Advertising Division 6. Outdoor Advertising, Department of Transportation. Available:
https://regulations.justia.com/states/california/title-4/division-6/chapter-3-5/. Accessed: May 10, 2023.
California Department of Transportation. 2019. State Scenic Highway Program, List of Eligible and Officially Designated Scenic Highways. Available: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape-ar chitecture- and-community-livability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways. Accessed April 3, 2023.
City of Ranch Cordova and California Department of Transportation. 2014. Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment for the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project.
City of Rancho Cordova and California Department of Transportation. 2014. Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment for the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project.
City of Rancho Cordova and Caltrans. See City of Ranch Cordova and California Department of Transportation.
City of Rancho Cordova. 2022. Rancho Cordova Municipal Code, Chapter 23.743 Signs. Available:
https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova23/RanchoCordova23743.ht ml. Accessed May 5, 2023.
Facility Solutions Group. 2019. “Commercial Lighting 101: What Is a Foot-Candle?” FSG Electric Lighting.
Available: https://fsg.com/what-is-a-foot-candle/. Accessed May 2, 2023.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2020. Urban Areas of the United States and Puerto Rico. Available:
https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/UA20/UA_2020_WallMap.pdf. Accessed May 10, 2023.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
References 4-2 City of Rancho Cordova
SECTION 3.2 A GRICULTURE & FORESTRY RESOURCES
California Department of Conservation. 2018a. Sacramento County Important Farmland 2018. Available:
https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Sacramento.aspx. Accessed April 2023.
California Department of Conservation. 2018b. Williamson Act Parcels in the County of Sacramento. Webmap by SACOG. Available: https://data.sacog.org/maps/199810930ef9465a9a1ae0315e5a7535. Accessed April 2023.
DOC. See California Department of Conservation.
SECTION 3.3 A IR QUALITY
OEHHA. See Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. 2015. Hot Spots Guidance Manual. Available:
https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/crnr/2015guidancemanual.pdf. Accessed May 2023.
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. 2017. Air Quality Pollutants and Standards.
Available: https://www.airquality.org/Air-Quality-Health/Air-Quality-Pollutants-and-Standards.
Accessed May 2023.
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. 2020. Guide to Air Quality Assessment in S
acramento County. Available: https://www.airquality.org/Residents/CEQA-La nd-Use-Planning/CEQA- Guidance-Tools. Accessed May 2023.
SMAQMD. See Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District.
Zhu, Y., W. C. Hinds, S. Kim, and S. Shen. 2002. Study of Ultrafine Particles Near a Major Highway with Heavy-duty Diesel Traffic. Atmospheric Environment. 36:4323–4335.
SECTION 3.4 B IOLOGICAL RESOURCES
California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2023. CNDDB: California Natural Diversity Database; Nine-Quad Search for the Buffalo Creek 7.5 minute Quadrangle and. Project species list can be generated online at:
https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/Maps-and-Data.
California Native Plant Society. 2023. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants; Nine-Quad Search for the Buffalo Creek 7.5 minute Quadrangle. Project species can be generated online at:
https://rareplants.cnps.org.
CDFW. See California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
City of Rancho Cordova. Municipal Code, Chapter 19.12.
CNPS. See California Native Plant Society.
County of Sacramento. 2018a. South Sacramento County Habitat Conservation Plan. February 2018.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 4-3 References
_____. 2018b. South Sacramento County Habitat Conservation Plan Final Environmental Impact Report. February 2018.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2023. IPaC: Information for Planning and Consulting. Project species list can be generated online at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/.
U.S. Geological Survey. 2023. National Wetlands Inventory Wetlands Mapper. Available at:
https://www.fws.gov/program/national-wetlands-inventory/wetlands-mapper.
USFWS. See U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
USGS. See U.S. Geological Survey.
SECTION 3.5 C ULTURAL RESOURCES
ECORP Consulting, Inc. 2007. Cultural Resources Inventory, Westborough at Easton, Sacramento County, California.
Maniery, Mary 2000. Finding of No Historic Properties Affected for the Proposed Folsom Widening Project, Sacramento County, California.
Maniery, Mary and Tracy D. Bakic 2000. Historic Property Survey Report Folsom Boulevard Widening Project, Sacramento County, California.
Nadolski, John 2007. Historic Property Survey Report for the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange, FWHA071120A.
NCIC. 2023. Records search conducted by Paul Rendes at the North Central Information Center on April 6, 2023.
NWIC. See Northwest Information Center.
Peak, Ann S. and Associates 1978. Cultural Resource Assessment of the Natomas Station, Sacramento County, California.
Solis, Laurie 2021. Cultural Resources Survey of the SA062 Rt 50 & Hazel Ave/B Telecommunication Project, Rancho Cordova, Trileaf. Project #679239.
Waechter, Sharon 1999. Historic Properties Survey Report Downtown Sacramento Amtrak and Folsom Corridor Light Rail Transit Extensions and Double Tracking Project.
Westwood, Lisa, and Stephen Pappas, 2010. Cultural Resources Inventory and Evaluation for the Off-site VELB Preserve Area for the Glenborough at Easton and Easton Place Project, Sacramento County, California, Project No. 2009-165.
Wilson and Towne. 1978. “Nisenan.” In Handbook of North American Indians, Volume 8, R. F. Heizer, editor.
Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Press.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
References 4-4 City of Rancho Cordova
SECTION 3.6 E NERGY
EIA. See U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Sacramento Municipal Utility District. 2021 Power Content Label. Available online: https://www.smud.org/- /media/Documents/Corporate/Environmental-Leadership/Power-Sources/PowerContentLabel.ashx.
Accessed April 2023.
____. 2023. Company Information. Available online: https://www.smud.org/en/Corporate/About-us/Company- Information. Accessed April 2023.
SMUD. See Sacramento Municipal Utility District.
Watchfire Signs. 2011. Watchfire Signs and Digital Billboards Receive UL-Green Leaf Certification. Available online: https://www.watchfiresigns.com/blog/watchfire- signs-and-digital-billboards-receive-ul-greenleaf- certification/. Accessed May 2023.
U.S. Energy Information Administration. 2022. Carbon Dioxide Emissions Coefficients. October. Available online: https://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/co2_vol_mass.php. Accessed M ay 2023.
SECTION 3.7 G EOLOGY AND SOILS
City of Ranch Cordova and California Department of Transportation. 2014. Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment for the Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project.
City of Rancho Cordova and Caltrans. See City of Ranch Cordova and California Department of Transportation.
City of Rancho Cordova. 2006. Draft Environmental Impact Report on the Rancho Cordova General Plan.
Volume I, Page 4.11-4.
SECTION 3.8 G REENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
City of Rancho Cordova. 2023. Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Available:
https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/residents/community-topics/climate-action-plan. Accessed May 2023.
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. 2021. Guide to Air Quality Assessment in Sac
ramento County: Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Available:
https://www.airquality.org/LandUseTransportation/Documents/Ch6GHG2-26-2021.pdf. Accessed May 2023.
SMAQMD. See Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District.
SECTION 3.9 H AZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. 2008. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Available at https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/divisions/community-w ildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/wildfire- preparedness/fire-hazard-severity-zones/fire-hazard-severity-zones-map/.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 4-5 References
California Department of Toxic Substance Control. 2023a. EnviroStor. https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/.
_____. 2023b. Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List. Available at https://dtsc.ca.gov/dtscs-co rtese-list/.
California State Water Resources Control Board. 2023. GeoTracker. Available at https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/.
DTSC. See Department of Toxic Substances Control.
EPA. See U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
SWRCB. See State Water Resources Control Board.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2023. Envirofacts. Available at https://www.epa.gov/enviro/forms/contact-us-about-envirofacts.
SECTION 3.10 H YDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
California Department of Conservation. 2019. Tsunami Hazard Area Map. Available:
https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/informationwarehouse/ts_evacuation/. Accessed March 22 , 2023.
City of Rancho Cordova. 2006. Draft Environmental Impact Report on the Rancho Cordova General Plan.
Volume I, Page 4.9-11.
DOC. See California Department of Conservation.
Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2012. FEMA Flood Map Service Center, Flood Insurance Rate Map.
Available: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search?AddressQuery=auburn%2C%20ca#searchresultsanchor.
Accessed March 22, 2023.
FEMA. See Federal Emergency Management Agency.
South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies. October 2021. South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan. Available:
http://sasbgroundwater.org/assets/pdf/resources/complete/SASbGSP_FINAL_01212022.pdf. Accessed May 9, 2023.
SECTION 3.11 L AND USE AND PLANNING
None.
SECTION 3.12 M INERAL RESOURCES
City of Rancho Cordova. 2006. General Plan Draft EIR. Available:
https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/departments/community-development/planning/planning-division- document-library. Accessed: May 11, 2023.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
References 4-6 City of Rancho Cordova
SECTION 3.13 N OISE
California Department of Transportation. 2020a. Traffic Counts, US 50. ———. 2020b. Transportation and Construction Vibration Guidance Manual. Division of Environmental Analysis, Environmental Engineering, Hazardous Waste, Air, Noise, Paleontology Office, Sacramento, CA.
Caltrans. See California Department of Transportation.
City of Rancho Cordova. 2006 (March). City of Rancho Cordova General Plan, Draft Environmental Impact Report.
Federal Highway Administration. 2006 (January). Roadway Construction Noise Model User’ s Guide. FHWA- HEP-05-054. Washington, DC.
Federal Transit Administration. 2018 (September). Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. FTA Report No. 0123. Washington, DC: Office of Planning and Environment.
FHWA. See Federal Highway Administration.
FTA. See Federal Transit Administration.
SECTION 3.14 P OPULATION AND HOUSING
U.S. Census Bureau. 2022. Quick Facts – City of Rancho Cordova. Website:
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/ranchocordovacitycalifornia/RHI225221. Accessed: March 21, 2023.
SECTION 3.15 P UBLIC SERVICES
None.
SECTION 3.16 R ECREATION
None.
SECTION 3.17 TRANSPORTATION
City of Rancho Cordova 2020. Transportation Analysis Guidelines. Available:
https://sacdot.saccounty.net/Documents/A%20to%20Z%20Folder/Traffic%20Analysis/Transportation%2 0Analysis%20Guidelines%2009.10.20.pdf. Accessed: May 10, 2023.
SECTION 3.18 T RIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
None.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 4-7 References
SECTION 3.19 U TILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
None.
SECTION 3.20 W ILDFIRE
CalFire. Fire and Resource Assessment Program. 2007. Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area (Sacramento County). 2007.
SECTION 3.21 M ANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
City of Rancho Cordova. 2014. Final Environmental Impact Report Rancho Cordova Parkway Interchange Project. Available: https://ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/2005092044/4. Accessed April 3, 2023.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
References 4-8 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova 5-1 List of Preparers
5 LIST OF PREPARERS
CITY OF RANCHO CORDOVA
Arlene Granadosin-Jones ...................................................................................................................... Senior Planner
AECOM
Matthew Gerken, AICP ...................................................................................................................... Project Director David Rader ....................................................................................................................................... Project Manager Mary Nooristani ...................................................................................................................... Environmental Planner Ryan Hutchinson ..................................................................................................................... Environmental Planner Issa Mahmodi .............................................................................................................. Noise and Vibration Specialist Paola Pena .............................................................................................................................. Air Quality Scientist III Allison Brock ..................................................................................................................... Environmental Scientist II Diana Ewing ...................................................................................................................... Archaeological Technician Chris O’Neal .......................................................................................................................................... GIS Specialist Deborah Jew ................................................................................................................................ Document Specialist
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project IS/MND
List of Preparers 5-2 City of Rancho Cordova
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ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
APPENDIX A
Air Quality, Energy, and Greenhouse Gas CalEEMod
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mineshaft Digital Signs Custom Report, 4/28/2023
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Mineshaft Digital Signs Custom Report
Table of Contents
1. Basic Project Information
1.1. Basic Project Information
1.2. Land Use Types
2. Emissions Summary
2.1. Construction Emissions Compared Against Thresholds
2.2. Construction Emissions by Y ear, Unmitigated
2.5. Operations Emissions by Sector, Unmitigated
3. Construction Emissions Details
3.1. Site Preparation (2023) - Unmitigated
3.3. Site Preparation (2023) - Unmitigated
4. Operations Emissions Details
4.2. Energy
4.2.1. Electricity Emissions By Land Use - Unmitigated
5. Activity Data
ITEM 19.1.
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5.1. Construction Schedule
5.2. Off-Road Equipment
5.2.1. Unmitigated
5.3. Construction Vehicles
5.3.1. Unmitigated
5.4. Vehicles
5.4.1. Construction Vehicle Control Strategies
5.6. Dust Mitigation
5.6.1. Construction Earthmoving Activities
5.11. Operational Energy Consumption
5.11.1. Unmitigated
8. User Changes to Default Data
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mineshaft Digital Signs Custom Report, 4/28/2023
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1. Basic Project Information
1.1. Basic Project Information
Data Field Value
Project Name Mineshaft Digital Signs
Construction Start Date 10/2/2023
Operational Y ear 2023
Lead Agency —
Land Use Scale Project/site
Analysis Level for Defaults County
Windspeed (m/s) 2.70
Precipitation (days) 37.8
Location 2300 Mine Shaft Ln, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742, USA County Sacramento
City Rancho Cordova
Air District Sacramento Metropolitan AQMD
Air Basin Sacramento Valley
TAZ 705
EDFZ 13
Electric Utility Sacramento Municipal Utility District
Gas Utility Pacific Gas & Electric
App Version 2022.1.1.11
1.2. Land Use Types
Land Use Subtype Size Unit Lot Acreage Building Area (sq ft) Landscape Area (sq ft)
Special Landscape
Area
(sq ft)
Population Description
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User Defined Parking 1.00 User Defined Unit 11.4 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 11-acre site for two digital
signs
2. Emissions Summary
2.1. Construction Emissions Compared Against Thresholds Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Un/Mit. TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Unmit. 0.96 0.72 9.37 8.67 0.03 0.31 0.38 0.69 0.29 0.10 0.38 — 2,941 2,941 0.18 0.21 0.08 3,007 Average
Daily
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Unmit. 0.05 0.04 0.44 0.48 < 0.005 0.02 0.01 0.02 0.02 < 0.005 0.02 — 116 116 0.01 < 0.005 0.02 117 Annual
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Unmit. 0.01 0.01 0.08 0.09 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 19.3 19.3 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 19.4
2.2. Construction Emissions by Y ear, Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Y ear TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily -
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily -
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2023 0.96 0.72 9.37 8.67 0.03 0.31 0.38 0.69 0.29 0.10 0.38 — 2,941 2,941 0.18 0.21 0.08 3,007 ITEM 19.1.
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Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2023 0.05 0.04 0.44 0.48 < 0.005 0.02 0.01 0.02 0.02 < 0.005 0.02 — 116 116 0.01 < 0.005 0.02 117 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2023 0.01 0.01 0.08 0.09 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 19.3 19.3 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 19.4
2.5. Operations Emissions by Sector, Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Sector TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Area 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Energy 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Total 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 104 Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Area — 0.04 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Energy 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Total 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 104 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
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Mobile 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Area 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Energy 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Total 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 104 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Area 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Energy 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 — 17.1 17.1 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 17.2 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 Total 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 17.1 17.1 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 17.2
3. Construction Emissions Details
3.1. Site Preparation (2023) - Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Location TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Onsite — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Off-Road
Equipment
0.78 0.65 6.97 7.52 0.02 0.29 — 0.29 0.27 — 0.27 — 1,664 1,664 0.07 0.01 — 1,669 ITEM 19.1.
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———————< 0.005< 0.005—< 0.005< 0.005——————Dust
From
Mater
ial
Movement
Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Off-Road
Equipment
0.05 0.04 0.42 0.45 < 0.005 0.02 — 0.02 0.02 — 0.02 — 100 100 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 101 Dust
F
rom
Material
Movement
— — — — — — < 0.005 < 0.005 — < 0.005 < 0.005 — — — — — — — Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Off-Road
Equipment
0.01 0.01 0.08 0.08 < 0.005 < 0.005 — < 0.005 < 0.005 — < 0.005 — 16.6 16.6 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 16.7 Dust
F
rom
Material
Movement
— — — — — — < 0.005 < 0.005 — < 0.005 < 0.005 — — — — — — — Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Offsite — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker 0.03 0.03 0.04 0.39 0.00 0.00 0.08 0.08 0.00 0.02 0.02 — 78.5 78.5 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 79.4 Vendor 0.01 < 0.005 0.13 0.04 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.02 0.02 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 59.9 59.9 < 0.005 0.01 < 0.005 62.7 Hauling 0.01 < 0.005 0.16 0.05 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.02 0.02 < 0.005 0.01 0.01 — 77.0 77.0 0.01 0.01 < 0.005 80.9 ITEM 19.1.
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Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.02 0.00 0.00 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 4.85 4.85 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 4.92 Vendor < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 3.61 3.61 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 3.78 Hauling < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 4.64 4.64 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 4.88 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 0.00 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.00 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 0.80 0.80 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.82 Vendor < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 0.60 0.60 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.63 Hauling < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 0.77 0.77 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.81
3.3. Site Preparation (2023) - Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Location TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Onsite — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Dust
F
rom
Material
Movement
— — — — — — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — — — — — — —
Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Dust
F
rom
Material
Movement
— — — — — — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — — — — — — —
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Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Dust
F
rom
Material
Movement
— — — — — — 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 — — — — — — —
Onsite
tr
uck
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Offsite — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Vendor 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Hauling 0.13 0.03 2.08 0.67 0.01 0.02 0.27 0.28 0.02 0.07 0.09 — 1,062 1,062 0.10 0.17 0.06 1,114 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Vendor 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Hauling < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 2.91 2.91 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 3.06 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Worker 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Vendor 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 — 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Hauling < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 0.48 0.48 < 0.005 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.51
4. Operations Emissions Details
ITEM 19.1.
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4.2. Energy
4.2.1. Electricity Emissions By Land Use - Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Land
Use
TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
User
Defined
P
arking
— — — — — — — — — — — — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104
Total — — — — — — — — — — — — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104 Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
User
Defined
P
arking
— — — — — — — — — — — — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104
Total — — — — — — — — — — — — 103 103 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 104 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
User
Defined
P
arking
— — — — — — — — — — — — 17.1 17.1 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 17.2 Total — — — — — — — — — — — — 17.1 17.1 < 0.005 < 0.005 — 17.2
5. Activity Data
5.1. Construction Schedule
Phase Name Phase Type Start Date End Date Days Per Week Work Days per Phase Phase Description Site Preparation Site Preparation 10/2/2023 10/31/2023 5.00 22.0 — ITEM 19.1.
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Material Delivery Site Preparation 10/5/2023 10/5/2023 5.00 1.00 —
5.2. Off-Road Equipment
5.2.1. Unmitigated
Phase Name Equipment Type Fuel Type Engine Tier Number per Day Hours Per Day Horsepower Load Factor Site Preparation Tractors/Loaders/Backh
oes
Diesel Average 1.00 8.00 84.0 0.37
Site Preparation Bore/Drill Rigs Diesel Average 1.00 8.00 83.0 0.50 Site Preparation Cranes Diesel Average 1.00 8.00 367 0.29
5.3. Construction Vehicles
5.3.1. Unmitigated
Phase Name Trip Type One-Way Trips per Day Miles per Trip Vehicle Mix Site Preparation — — — —
Site Preparation Worker 7.50 14.3 LDA,LDT1,LDT2
Site Preparation Vendor 2.00 8.80 HHDT,MHDT
Site Preparation Hauling 1.00 20.0 HHDT
Site Preparation Onsite truck — — HHDT
Material Delivery — — — —
Material Delivery Worker 0.00 14.3 LDA,LDT1,LDT2
Material Delivery Vendor — 8.80 HHDT,MHDT
Material Delivery Hauling 4.00 70.0 HHDT
Material Delivery Onsite truck — — HHDT
5.4. Vehicles
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5.4.1. Construction Vehicle Control Strategies
Non-applicable. No control strategies activated by user.
5.6. Dust Mitigation
5.6.1. Construction Earthmoving Activities
Phase Name Material Imported (Cubic Y ards) Material Exported (Cubic Y ards) Acres Graded (acres) Material Demolished (sq. ft.) Acres Paved (acres) Site Preparation 5.00 16.0 0.00 0.00 —
Material Delivery 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 —
5.11. Operational Energy Consumption
5.11.1. Unmitigated
Electricity (kWh/yr) and CO2 and CH4 and N2O and Natural Gas (kBTU/yr) Land Use Electricity (kWh/yr) CO2 CH4 N2O Natural Gas (kBTU/yr) User Defined Parking 115,340 327 0.0129 0.0017 0.00
8. User Changes to Default Data
Screen Justification
Land Use Two digital reader board signs on the 11.4-acre project site Construction: Construction Phases 1 month construction duration for installation of signs. Material delivery phase included to account for deliv
ery trips.
Construction: Off-Road Equipment Project specific construction equipment - auger to bore holes; crane to install and lift signs; backhoe f
or minor grading/tree removal.
Operations: Architectural Coatings No coatings
Operations: Energy Use Based on manufacturer provided energy consumption estimate of 158 kWh/day per sign and 24/7, 365
days of operation.
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Construction: Trips and VMT Default workers, daily vendor trips to account for tree removal/water truck. Rounded daily material e
xport truck trips up - only 8 CY of material export/sign. Material delivery trips includes 4 one-way trips to SMAQMD boundary.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Energy Consumption Summary
Source Energy Requirement Unit
Construction1
Diesel 1,841 Gallons
Gasoline 100 Gallons
Operations2
Electrical 115,340 KWh/yr
Fuel Usage during Construction
Source MT CO2
a Fuel Type
Emission Factor
(lb CO2/gallon) b Gallons
Off-Road 16.60 Diesel 22.45 1,656
Hauling 1.25 Diesel 22.45 125
Vendor 0.60 Diesel 22.45 60
Worker 0.80 Gas 17.86 100
Diesel 1,841
Gasoline 100
Sources:
a Modeled by AECOM in 2023.
b U.S. Energy Information Administration released October 5, 2022 (https://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/co2_vol_mass.php) Total Demand
Proposed Project Energy Consumption Summary
Notes:
Totals may not add due to rounding.
Source: Modeled by AECOM in 2023
1. Construction estimates are based on conversion for CO2 emissions estimates from CalEEMod to fuel consumption for diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles using U.S. Energy Information Administration 2022 factors.
2. Electricity consumption based on estimated electricity demand from manufacturer.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
APPENDIX B
Biological Resources CNDDB Database Search and
Live Oak Associates Arborist Report
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Biological Resources CNDDB Database Search
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-1
Table B-1. Special-status Plant Species with the Potential to Occur in the Project Vicinity Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1
Distribution Habitat Association Identification
Period
Potential for Occurrence within the project
site2 Federal State/
CNPS
Ione manzanita
Arctostaphylos
myrtifolia
FT 1B.2 Amador and Calaveras
Counties
Evergeen shrub. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland (acidic,
Ione soil clay or sandy). Present in
elevations ranging from 195 to
1,905 feet amsl.
November
through
February
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site, and this species
was not observed during surveys.
Pine hill ceanothus
Ceanothus roderickii
FE 1B.2 El Dorado County Perennial evergreen shrub.
Chaparral, cismontane woodland
(serpentinite or gabbroic). Present
in elevations ranging from 805 to
3,575 feet amsl.
May through
June
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
Red hills soaproot
Chlorogalum
grandiflorum
- 1B.2 Amador, Calaveras, El
Dorado, Placer, and
Tuolumne Counties
Perennial bulbiferous herb.
Chaparral, cismontane woodland,
lower montane coniferous forest
(serpentinite or gabbroic).
Present in elevations ranging from
805 to 5,545 feet amsl.
May through
June
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
Dwarf downingia
Downingia pusilla
- 2B.2 Fresno, Merced, Napa,
Placer, Sacramento, San
Joaquin, Solano, Sonoma,
Stanislaus, Tehama, and
Yuba Counties
Annual herb. Valley and foothill
grassland (mesic) and vernal
pools.
Present in elevations ranging from
5 to 1,460 feet amsl.
March through
May
No potential. There is one known
occurrence of this species within 10 miles of
the project site, however, there are no vernal
pools or mesic areas within the project area.
This species was not found during surveys.
Ione buckwheat
Eriogonum apricum
var. apricum
FE SE/1B.2 Amador County Perennial herb. Chaparral
(openings, Ione soil).
Present in elevations ranging from
195 to 475 feet amsl.
July through
October
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, habitat is not
present within the project site. There are no
known occurrences of this species within 10
miles of the project site.
Irish hill buckwheat
Eriogonum apricum
var. prostratum
FE SE/1B.2 Amador County Perennial herb. Chaparral
(openings, Ione soil).
Present in elevations ranging from
295 to 395 feet amsl.
June through
July
No potential. Although surveys were not
conducted within this species’ blooming
period, habitat is not present and the project
site is not within this species’ elevation
range. This species was not observed during
surveys.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-2 City of Rancho Cordova
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1
Distribution Habitat Association Identification
Period
Potential for Occurrence within the project
site2 Federal State/
CNPS
Tuolumne button-
celery
Erynigium
pinnatisectum
- 1B.2 Amador, Calaveras,
Sacramento, San Joaquin,
and Tuolumne Counties
Annual/perennial herb.
Cismontane woodland, lower
montane coniferous forest, vernal
pools (mesic).
Present in elevations ranging from
230 to 3,000 feet amsl.
June through
August
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
Pine hill flannelbush
Fremontodendron
decumbens
FE 1B.2 El Dorado, Nevada, and
Yuba Counties
Evergreen shrub. Chaparral and
cismontane woodland (rocky,
serpentinite or gabbroic soils).
Present in elevations ranging from
1,395 to 2,495 feet amsl.
April through
July
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
El Dorado bedstraw
Galium californicum
ssp. sierrae
FE 1B.2 El Dorado County Perennial herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, and lower
montane coniferous forest
(gabbroic).
Present in elevations ranging from
330 to 1,920 feet amsl.
May through
June
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
Bogg’s lake hedge
hyssop
Gratiola heterosepala
- SE/1B.2 Fresno, Lake, Lassen,
Madera, Mendocino,
Merced, Modesto, Placer,
Sacramento, Shasta,
Siskiyou, San Joaquin,
Solano, Sonoma, and
Tehama Counties
Annual herb. Marshes, swamps,
lake margins, and vernal pools
with clay soils.
Present in elevations ranging from
35 to 7,790 feet amsl.
April through
June
Not Likely. There are six known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. Suitable habitat occurs
within the vernal pool within the project
site. However, this species was not found
during surveys.
Parry's horkelia
Horkelia parryi
1B.2 Amador, Calaveras, El
Dorado, Mariposa, and
Tuolumne Counties
Perennial herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland especially
Ione formation.
Present in elevations ranging from
260 to 3,510 feet amsl.
April through
June
(September)
No potential. The project site is not within
this species’ elevation range, and habitat is
not present within the project site. There are
no known occurrences of this species within
10 miles of the project site. This species was
not observed during surveys.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-3
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1
Distribution Habitat Association Identification
Period
Potential for Occurrence within the project
site2 Federal State/
CNPS
Ahart’s dwarf rush
Juncus leiospemus
var. ahartii
- 1B.2 Butte, Calaveras, Placer,
Sacramento, Tehama, and
Yuba Counties
Annual herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, meadows,
and seeps, valley and foothill
grasslands, vernal pools (vernally
mesic).
Elevation: 100 to 750 feet amsl.
March through
May
No potential. There are two known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. No suitable habitat is
present within the project site.
Legenere
Legenere limosa
- 1B.2 Alameda, Lake,
Monterey, Napa, Placer,
Sacramento, Santa Clara,
Shasta, San Joaquin, San
Mateo, Solano, Sonoma,
Stanislaus, Tehama, and
Yuba Counties
Annual herb. Vernal pools.
Present in elevations ranging from
5 to 2,885 feet amsl.
April through
June
No potential. There are fifteen known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. No suitable habitat
present within the project site.
Pincushion
navarretia
Navarretia myersii
ssp. myersii
- 1B.2 Amador, Calaveras,
Madera, Merced, Placer,
and Sacramento Counties
Annual herb. Vernal pools. Present
in elevations ranging from 65 to
1,085 feet amsl.
May No potential. There is one known
occurrence of this species within 10 miles of
the project site. No suitable habitat occurs
within the project site.
Slender orcutt grass
Orcuttia tenuis
FT SE/1B.2 Butte, Lake, Lassen,
Modesto, Plumas,
Sacramento, Shasta,
Siskiyou, and Tehama
Counties
Annual herb. Vernal pools.
Present in elevations ranging from
115 to 5,775 feet amsl.
May through
September
(October)
No potential. There are three known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. No suitable habitat
occurs within the project site.
Sacramento orcutt
grass
Orcuttia viscida
FE SE/1B.2 Sacramento County Annual herb. Vernal pools.
Present in elevations ranging from
100 to 330 feet amsl.
April through
July
No potential. There are eleven known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. No suitable habitat
occurs within the project site.
Layne’s ragwort
Packera layneae
FT 1B.2 El Dorado, Placer,
Tuolumne, and Yuba
Counties
Perennial herb. Chaparral and
cismontane woodland (rocky,
serpentinite or gabbroic soils).
Present in elevations ranging from
655 to 3,560 feet amsl.
April through
July
No potential. Suitable habitat does not
occur within the project site. The project site
is outside of this species’ known elevation
range. There are no known occurrences of
this species within 10 miles of the project
site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-4 City of Rancho Cordova
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1
Distribution Habitat Association Identification
Period
Potential for Occurrence within the project
site2 Federal State/
CNPS
Sanford’s
arrowhead
Sagittaria sanfordii
- 1B.2 Butte, Del Norte, El
Dorado, Fresno, King,
Los Angeles, Madera,
Merced, Mariposa,
Orange, Sacramento, San
Bernadino, Santa Clara,
Shasta, San Joaquin, San
Mateo, Solano, Sutter,
Tehama, Tulare, Ventura,
and Yuba Counties
Perennial rhizomatous herb
(emergent). Marshes and swamps
(assorted shallow freshwater).
Extirpated from Southern
California, and mostly extirpated
from the Central Valley.
Present in elevations ranging from
0 to 2,135 feet amsl.
May through
October
Could occur. There are 17 known
occurrences of this species within 10 miles
of the project site. Suitable habitat occurs
within Buffalo Creek within the parcel.
Construction would not occur near this
creek, so this species could not occur within
areas affected by project disturbance.
El Dorado County
mule ears
Wyethia reticulata
- 1B.2 El Dorado County Perennial herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, and lower
montane coniferous forest (clay or
gabbroic).
Present in elevations ranging from
605 to 2,065 feet amsl.
May through
July
No potential. Suitable habitat does not
occur within the project site. The project site
is outside of this species’ known elevation
range. There are no known occurrences of
this species within 10 miles of the project
site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-5
Notes for Table A-1
Notes:
amsl = above mean sea level;
CNPS = California Native Plant Society
1 Status explanations:
– = no listing.
Federal
FT = listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FE = listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.
State
SE = listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act.
California Native Plant Society California Rare Plant Ranks:
1B = plant species considered rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. 2B = plant species considered rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere.
California Rare Plant Rank Extensions:
1 = seriously endangered in California (>80% of occurrences are threatened and/or have high degree and immediacy of threat). 2 = fairly endangered in California (20–80% of occurrences are threatened and/or have moderate degree and immediacy of threat). 3 = not very threatened in California (<20% of occurrences are threatened and/or have low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known). 2 Potential for occurrence categories defined:
No Potential = The project site is located outside of the species’ geographic or elevational range or no suitable habitat for the species is present within or immediately adjacent to the project site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-6 City of Rancho Cordova
Table B-2. Special-Status Animal Species with the Potential to Occur in the Project Vicinity Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State Invertebrates
Crotch bumble bee
Bombus crotchii
- SCE In California, this species inhabits open grassland and scrub habitats. This species occurs primarily in
California, including the Mediterranean region,
Pacific Coast, Western Desert, Great Valley, and
adjacent foothills through most of southwestern
California. This species was historically common in
the Central Valley of California but now appears to
be absent from most of it, especially in the center of
its historic range. Nests have not been well
documented.
Unlikely. No suitable nesting habitat within the project site.
Flowering species such as perennial pepperweed and
California poppy may provide some foraging potential,
however, these plants are not typically associated with foraging patterns of this species. The nearest CNDDB
occurrence is 4 miles south of the project site.
Vernal pool fairy shrimp
Branchinecta lynchi
FT – Vernal pools and other seasonal wetlands, typically small but including a wide range of sizes.
No Potential. There is no suitable vernal pool or seasonal wetland habitat present within the project site.
Valley elderberry longhorn
beetle
Desmocerus californicus
dimorphus
FT – Elderberry shrubs, typically in riparian habitats
below 3,000 feet in elevation.
No Potential. No elderberry shrubs, required for this
species, are present within the project site or within 100 feet of the project site.
Vernal pool tadpole shrimp
Lepidurus packardi
FE – Vernal pools and other seasonal wetlands, typically medium to large but including a wide range of sizes
with relatively long inundation period.
No Potential. There is no suitable vernal pool or seasonal wetland habitat present within the project site.
Reptiles and Amphibians
California tiger salamander
Ambystoma californiense
FT ST Vernal pools and other seasonal wetlands (e.g., in ditches) with adequate inundation period and large
tracts of adjacent uplands, primarily grasslands, with
burrows and other refugia. Not known to breed in
streams or rivers.
No Potential. There is no suitable upland or aquatic
breeding habitat for this species within the project site.
While there are vernal pools and seasonal wetland habitat near the project site (south of South Folsom Canal) that could be used by this species for breeding, the highest quality upland habitat in the area is immediately adjacent to those potential aquatic habitat sites, and California tiger salamander would not be expected to migrate into urban
areas with upland and aquatic habitat nearby. Additionally, the low-quality habitat just described is highly fragmented.
Furthermore, no CNDDB-documented occurrences occur
within 10 miles of this site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-7
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State Western pond turtle
Emys marmorata
– SSC Closely associated with permanent or nearly
permanent water in a variety of aquatic habitats. For
foraging, ponds, marshes, slow-moving streams,
sloughs, and irrigation/drainage ditches; for nesting,
soils in nearby uplands with low, sparse vegetation.
Basking sites are required for thermoregulation, such
as partially submerged logs, rocks, mats of floating
vegetation, or open mud banks. Hibernation may
occur in aquatic habitats or in burrows of adjacent
uplands, often with duff.
Unlikely. No permanent water habitat occurs within the
project footprint. Buffalo Creek exists within the
established project boundaries, but project activities would not extend to that feature. Additionally, this creek is densely vegetated by cattail and lacks basking sites
required by this species. The project site itself is comprised of urban land cover type that is not suitable nesting habitat for this species. There are 11 CNDDB-documented
occurrences within 10 miles of the project site, the nearest one being 1 mile north of the project site along the
American River.
Foothill yellow-legged frog
Rana boylii
FPE SE This species frequents rocky, sunny banks along
streams and rivers of all sizes in woodland, chaparral
and forest. This species is closely restricted to water.
No Potential. There is no suitable rocky or sunny stream within the project site. Buffalo Creek, adjacent to the project site, is densely vegetation and would not provide suitable habitat for this species.
California red-legged frog
Rana draytonii
FT SSC Dense, shrubby riparian vegetation (Salix lasiolepis; also Typha and Scirpus spp.) associated with deep,
still, or slow-moving water. Currently extirpated
from the Central Valley.
No Potential. The project site is outside the current range of this species. No CNDDB-documented occurrences occur
within 10 miles of this site.
Western spadefoot
Spea hammondii
- SSC This species is predominantly a grassland species, although some populations can be found in pine-oak
woodlands of the valley foothills. Western spadefoots
require shallow, temporary pools or streams during
the breeding season. Where natural vernal pools are
absent, this species may make use of artificial ponds
and stock tanks. Most of the year, western spadefoots
reside in burrows at depths of up to 3 feet (1 meter).
Spadefoots are capable of digging their own burrows
but will use mammal burrows if available.
Unlikely. There is no suitable aquatic or upland habitat within the project site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-8 City of Rancho Cordova
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State Giant garter snake
Thamnophis gigas
FT ST Open water associated with slow-moving streams,
sloughs, ponds, marshes, inundated floodplains, rice
fields, and irrigation/drainage ditches within the
Central Valley; also requires emergent herbaceous
wetland vegetation for escape and foraging habitat,
grassy banks and openings in waterside vegetation
for basking, and higher elevation upland habitat for
cover and refuge from flooding during the snakes
inactive season.
Unlikely. The project site does not provide the necessary habitat elements to support this species. The ditch is
ephemeral, does not provide adequate aquatic habitat to support this species, and is limited in extent and
connectivity to suitable habitat in the region. Buffalo Creek is a highly modified intermittent drainage adjacent to the project site. Buffalo Creek could provide potential
movement habitat for this species breeding elsewhere in the region; however, the nearest CNDDB-documented
occurrences is more than 13 miles south of the project site along the Cosumnes River. Furthermore, the banks of
Buffalo Creek are tall, steep (nearly vertical), and very densely vegetated with tall cattail, which likely would provide a barrier for this species.
Fishes
Steelhead – Central Valley
DPS
Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus
pop. 11
FT -- Cool, clear streams with abundant cover and well- vegetated banks, with relatively stable flows. Pool
and riffle complexes and cold gravelly streambeds
for spawning. The Yolo Bypass flows attract
upstream migrating fish, including this species, from
the Sacramento River into the Yolo Bypass at the
mouth of the Cache Slough Complex near liberty
island (CalFish 2018). Adult Steelhead migrate from
the ocean into freshwater streams to spawn between
December and March, and Juveniles migrate
downstream to the Bay or ocean in late winter or
spring.
No Potential. The project activities would not have any impacts on streams or waterways where this species could occur.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-9
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State Birds
Tricolored blackbird
Agelaius tricolor
– ST/SSC For nesting colonially, large, dense stands of freshwater marsh, riparian scrub, and other shrubs
and herbs; for foraging, grasslands and agricultural
fields. Wintering populations concentrate in the Delta
and the central coast in open rangeland; dairies are
attractive.
Unlikely. No suitable nesting or foraging habitat is present within the project site. Potential low quality freshwater emergent marsh that could be marginally suitable nesting habitat occurs along Buffalo Creek adjacent to the project site; the cattail marsh habitat is relatively small and would not be sufficient to support a nesting a colony. There are 27 CNDDB-documented occurrences within 10 miles of the
project site, the nearest presumed extant record located more than 3 miles south of the project site within a large expanse of blackberry in an undeveloped expanse of
grassland.
Grasshopper sparrow
Ammodramus savannarum
- SSC This species typically occurs in grasslands, prairies, hayfields, and open pastures with little to no scrub
cover and often with some bare ground. This species
nests on the ground, often at the base of a clump of
grass within an extensive patch of tall grasses or
sedges.
Unlikely. There is no suitable nesting habitat for this species within the project footprint. Ruderally vegetated areas within the project site could provide low quality foraging habitat, but this species would not be expected to utilize ruderal vegetation for foraging with higher quality foraging habitat (grassland) so close, just south of the Folsom South Canal. The nearest CNDDB-documented
occurrence is about 10 miles south of the project site.
Burrowing owl
Athene cunicularia
– SSC For nesting and foraging, grasslands, agricultural fields, and low scrub habitats, especially where
ground squirrel burrows are present; occasionally
inhabit artificial structures and small patches of
disturbed habitat.
Unlikely. No suitable burrows were observed within the
project site during site surveys. The project site is primarily comprised of a fenced, paved parking lot and an old play area. This site is surrounded by a busy multi-lane highway, as well as residential and commercial development. There is a larger expanse of grassland south of the project site that could be used by this species for foraging or nesting
habitat, but the project site itself does not provide suitable nesting or foraging habitat for this species.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-10 City of Rancho Cordova
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State Swainson’s hawk
Buteo swainsoni
– ST Typically nests in large, mature trees in open
woodlands, woodland margins, in riparian strips
along drainage canals, or in isolated trees; typically
places nests high in trees; forages in native
grasslands and agricultural fields (hay and grain
crops, lightly grazed pastures, and some row crops)
up to 10 miles or more from nest sites, depending on
habitat availability and cropping patterns; alfalfa is of particular importance.
Unlikely. There are more than 30 large stature oak trees within the project site, and the project site is close to grasslands that could be used by this species for foraging.
This area is very disturbed, and the oak trees are within an urban landscape adjacent to a noisy highway. There are 14 CNDDB documented occurrences within 10 miles of this
project site. The nearest nesting record is 2 miles south of the project site within a grassland habitat that is contiguous with the grassland habitat immediately south of the project site.
Northern harrier
Circus cyaneus
- SSC Meadows, grasslands, open rangelands, desert sinks, fresh and saltwater emergent wetlands. Nests on
ground, usually at marsh edge. Mostly nests in
emergent wetland or along rivers or lakes, but may
nest in grasslands, grain fields, or on sagebrush flats several miles from water. Breeds April to September.
Unlikely. There is no nesting or foraging habitat within the project site.
White-tailed kite
Elanus leucurus
- FP Nests in shrubs (in Delta) and trees adjacent to
grasslands oak woodland, edges of riparian habitats.
Roosts communally, resident year-round, and breeds
February-October.
Unlikely. While there are large stature oak trees that could support nesting, successful nests for this species are
typically greater than 300 feet from roadways and
surrounded by natural vegetation. While there are oak trees that could support nests, these trees are within 60 meters of Folsom Boulevard, and within 150 meters of Highway 50.
This species is not likely to nest or forage within the project site. The nearest CNDDB records are approximately 2
miles or more to the northwest of the project site, along the American River (CDFW 2023).
Bald eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
- SE/FP Permanent resident and uncommon winter migrant, now restricted to breeding mostly in Butte, Lake,
Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Siskiyou, and
Trinity counties. Ocean shore, lake margins, and
rivers, both nesting and wintering. Build stick nests
within large tall trees and typically within 1 mile of
permanent water. Wintering populations along major
rivers and reservoirs in Yuba County. Breeds
February to July.
No Potential. The project site is not adjacent to any large rivers or bodies of water, and thus, there is no suitable foraging or nesting habitat for this species within or in close proximity to the project site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-11
Common and
Scientific Name
Legal Status1 Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence in the project site2 Federal State California black rail
Laterallus jamaicensis
coturniculus
- ST Nests in shallow freshwater marshes, wet meadows,
or flooded grassy areas vegetated by fine stemmed
emergent plants; characterized by water depths of
approximately one inch that do not fluctuate
seasonally; locally occupied sites in the Sierra
foothills are typically small, densely vegetated, and
fed by irrigation water; habitat size varies from less
than 0.25 acre to over 30 acres
No Potential. No suitable nesting or foraging habitat is present within the project site.
Bank swallow
Riparia
- ST Bank Swallows breed in open lowland areas near
bodies of water. They tend to avoid forests,
woodlands, or areas where they cannot find
appropriate nesting habitats. Bank Swallows build
nests, often in large colonies, in vertical banks and
bluffs. These colonies are usually made in fairly
loose soils that are easy for the birds to burrow into, and are located near large bodies of water so that
there is ample airspace for flying.
No Potential. There are no vertical banks or bluffs present within the project site that would be suitable nesting habitat for this species.
Mammals
Pallid bat
Antrozous pallidus
- SSC Pallid bats roost in rock crevices, tree hollows, mines, caves, and a variety of anthropogenic
structures, including vacant and occupied buildings.
Buildings, mines, and natural caves are utilized as
roosts. Occurrence is primarily in arid habitats.
Colonies are usually small and may contain 12-100
bats.
Unlikely. Potential roosting habitat available within the trees on the project site. The only CNDDB record of this species within the 9-quadrangle search is 6 miles north of the project site.
American badger
Taxidea taxus
SSC Most abundant in drier open stages of most shrub,
forest, and herbaceous habitats with friable soils.
Need friable soils to dig large burrows for dens.
Unlikely. No suitable burrows were observed within the
project site during site surveys. The project site is largely comprised of a paved parking lot and some ruderal
vegetation, and devoid of friable soils necessary to support badger dens.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
AECOM Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND
B-12 City of Rancho Cordova
Notes for Table A-2.
Notes:
amsl = above mean sea level
BSA = Biological Study Area
CNDDB = California Natural Diversity Database
Delta = Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta
DPS = Distinct Population Segment
Project = Mine Shaft Digital Billboards
1 Status explanations:
– = no listing
Federal
FC = federal candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FE = listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FP = Fully Protected
FPT = proposed for listing as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FPE = proposed for listing as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.
FT = listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. State SCE = state candidate for listing as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act.
SCT = state candidate for listing as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act.
SE = listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act.
SSC = state species of special concern
ST = listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act.
Sources: CalFish 2018; CDFW 2023; data compiled by AECOM in 2023. 2 Potential for occurrence categories defined:
Could Occur = The species is known to occur in the vicinity of the project site (based on occurrence records within 5 miles and/or professional expertise specific to the site or species), and suitable (or potentially suitable) habitat is present within or immediately adjacent to the project site; or the project site is within the species’ range and suitable habitat is present within or immediately adjacent to the project site.
Unlikely = The project site is located within the species’ range, and only poor quality habitat occurs on or adjacent to the project site, or the project site is characterized by features that limit the likelihood of a species’ occurrence; the project site is not expected to support these species. The species may or may not have been recorded within 5 miles of the project site.
No Potential = The project site is located outside of the species’ geographic or elevational range or no suitable habitat for the species is present within or immediately adjacent to the project site.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Mine Shaft Digital Signs Billboard IS/MND AECOM
City of Rancho Cordova B-5-13
References
California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2023. CNDDB: California Natural Diversity Database; Nine-Quad Search for the Buffalo Creek 7.5 minute Quadrangle and. Project species list can be generated online at:
https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/Maps-and-Data. Accessed April 2023.
CalFish. 2018. Monitoring of Yolo and Sutter Bypasses for Fish Stranding and Rescue Operations. Available:
https://www.calfish.org/ProgramsData/ConservationandManagement/CentralValleyMonitoring/Sacramen toValleyTributaryMonitoring/YoloandSutterBypasses-Monitoring.aspx. Accessed April 2023.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Live Oak Associates Arborist Report
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
July 28, 2023
Shelly Blanchard
Cordova Community Council
729 Prospect Park Drive, Suite 117
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Subject: Revised Report for LOA Project No. 2698-01, Arborist Tree Inventory and Assessment for Proposed Mineshaft Digital Billboard Signs Project, Rancho Cordova, Sacramento County, California
Dear Ms. Blanchard:
Per your request, Live Oak Associates, Inc. (LOA) has completed an arborist inventory of 90 trees located on private property at 2300 Mine Shaft Lane and an adjacent off-site easement between Folsom Boulevard and Highway 50, Rancho Cordova, California (“project site”). The project site is a developed parcel (APN 072-0231-014) totaling approximately 11.38 acres with an existing building and inactive miniature golf course. The adjacent off-site easement is a road shoulder with trees, a guard rail, and chain -link fencing along the highway. Proposed activities for this project include the development of two digital billboard signs and the removal of one existing billboard sign.
This report is intended to identify whether trees on site meet the criteria for protection as described in the City of Rancho Cordova Tree Protection Ordinance, provide the location of such trees, rate their health and structure, rate their suitability for preservation, and provide guidance for protection during the proposed construction activities. Six trees are expected to be removed to complete construction activities.
This report is to be used by the property owner (Cordova Community Council) for acquisition of a tree permit from the City of Rancho Cordova and includes a tree protection plan for proposed construction activities, which is reflected on the final site plans, as well as a tree replacement plan.
A table of the tree data collected is included as Attachment 1. Photos referenced throughout this evaluation are included as Attachment 2.
Previously, this report was revised in October 2022 to reflect comments made by the City of Rancho Cordova on September 12, 2022, as Attachment 3. A second revision dated from March 2023, reflects changes of the proposed digital billboard sign location on the west end of the property. This third revision includes 7 trees tagged numbers 84 to 90 on an adjacent off-site easement, all of which are proposed for removal to allow for full view of the digital sign from Highway 50.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
2 Project Description
The proposed development is for two new digital billboard signs and the removal of one existing billboard. The proposed eastern digital billboard will have an overall height of 60 feet (ft.) and the western billboard an overall height of 70 ft. The billboards will be a single post center mount with a 45 ft. V-shaped build with each face measuring 20 ft. by 60 ft. The footing will be a round concrete footing with a 3-inch concrete cover. The depth for the center mount footing is yet to be determined. The electrical trench location for the west billboard has yet to be determined.
The area of potential effect for this project encompasses the locations of existing billboard removal, proposed billboard installation, proposed electrical trenching, an existing road to the proposed billboard locations to be used for access, an existing parking lot to be used for staging materials, and a small adjacent off-site parcel where trees are proposed for removal that will block the western billboard. A map of the parcel boundary, tree locations, and proposed billboard and existing billboard locations is included as Figure 1. A map with the adjacent off-site boundary and tree locations is included as Figure 2. A preliminary site plan of the proposed development is included as Attachment 4.
Adjacent to the western location of th e digital billboard sign is the project area for the City of Rancho Cordova’s Parkway Interchange Project. This project is expected to remove trees within the vicinity of the project described in this application. It is unrelated to this project; however, the location of the City’s overcrossing is generally shown on the site plans for reference. The City of Rancho Cordova’s Parkway Interchange Project is expected to remove trees for their project at the time that this project commences. The tree removal and mitigation are the responsibility of the City of Rancho Cordova not the Cordova Community Council. The trees anticipated for removal by the City are specified in the “Project Impacts Discussion.” City of Rancho Cordova Tree Preservation Ordinance
The City of Rancho Cordova wishes to “guide the growth of [the] long-term community tree canopy that provides improved air quality, public and mental health, welfare, safety and environmental benefits to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Rancho Cordova.” As such, the Preservation and Protection of Private Trees, Title 19, Chapter 12 of the City of Rancho Cordova Municipal Code protects certain trees and requires an approved permit be obtained before a protected tree has major pruning (pruning in a way which reduces the overall canopy of the tree by 10 percent or more, or cutting of roots or branches greater than two inches diameter within a 12-month period) or to remove. A copy of the municipal code is provided in Attachment 5. Chapter
19.12.030 defines which trees are subject to permits for removal as follows:
“Protected tree” means:
1. Native oak – Quercus lobata, valley oak; Quercus wislizenii, interior live oak; Quercus douglasii, blue oak; or Quercus morehus, oracle oak – having a trunk diameter of at least six inches or greater; or
2. Any tree species other than a native oak having a trunk diameter of at least 12 inches or greater on nonresidential property; or
3. Any tree species other than a native oak having a trunk diameter of at least 24 inches or greater on residential property; or
4. Any tree planted as a requirement tree for site development, tree permit condition, landscape plan removal replacement, or other designated condition by the public works director or planning director.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
3 Methods
The project site was surveyed for trees that meet the City of Rancho Cordova criteria on May 5, 2022 and July 27, 2023, by LOA International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist, Colleen Del Vecchio (WE#11788A) and arborist Nathan Hale. Prior to the field visit a desktop analysis was conducted to review the parcel boundaries, site construction plan, and City of Rancho Cordova municipal code for trees.
For each tree the arborists assigned a tree tag number, identified the tree species, and measured its diameter at standard height (DSH) in inches. DSH means the diameter of a tree measured at four and one-half feet above natural grade, except if specified differently. For trees within the area of potential effect, additional information was collected including estimated height and canopy diameter in feet, and rating of health and structural condition. Health and structural condition were rated according to the following scales, using limited visual assessment only (no risk assessments):
Health
• Good- Foliage is typical, vigor is high/normal;
• Fair- Foliage is typical or minor dieback (≤ 10% of canopy), vigor is normal or in decline; • Poor- Foliage showing extensive dieback (> 10% of canopy), vigor is in decline and driven by a stress response (epicormic sprouts);
• Dead- No or limited (< 20%) living tissue in the tree.
Structure
• Good- No major tree health defects, good structure and form typical for the species; • Fair- At least one major tree health defect or structural defect; • Poor- Two or more major tree health defects or structural defects that cannot be lessened; • Dead- No or limited (< 20%) living tissue in the tree.
All trees that met the City’s criteria were mapped during the site visit using an EOS Arrow 100 GPS receiver to obtain submeter accuracy of the trunk location and canopy edge. Photos were taken to provide an overview of each tree’s location and detailed photos of their defects, or site issues.
Suitability for Preservation
After the survey data was collected and all trees within the area of potential effect were assessed, each tree was assigned a rating to determine its suitability for preservation. The rating system for a tree’s suitability for preservation was determined based on the tree species, condition, size, and age. A tree species’ ability to tolerate construction impacts was also a factor in this determination.
A table listing the relative tolerance of selected species to development impacts is included as Attachment 6. The purpose of assessing a tree’s suitability for preservation is to determine whether or not a tree can survive construction, then adapt and thrive in its new environment.
The following scale was used to assign a suitability for preservation rating for each tree:
Suitability for Preservation
• Good- Trees are in good condition, have a good tolerance for construction impacts, and are ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
4 of an acceptable age to have a potential for longevity at the site; • Moderate- Trees are in fair condition, have a moderate tolerance for construction impacts, and are of an acceptable age to have a potential for longevity at the site; • Poor- Trees are in fair or poor condition, have a poor tolerance for construction impacts, and are not of an acceptable age to have a potential for longevity at the site.
Survey Results
90 trees met the criteria described in the City of Rancho Cordova ordinance as a protected tree on commercial property. Approximately 16 trees on the northeast side of the parcel did not qualify as a protected tree. Table 1 provides the results of the assessment for each tree that is expected to be impacted from project activities including its tag number, species, diameter, condition rating, and general notes. A full inventory of each tree on the project parcel is included in Appendix 1. Figure 1 shows the 83 trees within the project parcel surveyed in relation to the proposed site plan and City of Rancho Cordova’s Parkway Interchange Project. Figure 2 shows the 7 trees within the adjacent off-site easement surveyed for removal to enhance sight of the western billboard from Highway 50.
With the additional trees surveyed for this third revision, three trees (Trees 6-8) are expected to be removed from the project site and seven trees (Trees 84-90) are expected to be removed from the adjacent off-site easement. No trees are expected to have root impacts based on the March 2023 revised site plans. However, the electrical trenching location has not been identified yet for the new plans. It is expected that all trenching will be conducted outside of the dripline of the trees where the tree protection fence will be located. No trees are expected to have any major trimming.
Project Impacts Discussion
The proposed eastern digital billboard sign and removal of the existing eastern billboard is not expected to impact any protected trees. The location of the proposed sign and existing sign is within the paved parking lot, with no surrounding vegetation. The access to the eastern portion of the project area is not expected to impact any protected trees. There are several access routes to the east side of the parking lot depending on the equipment or vehicle size and its tur ning radius.
All of the access is via existing paved roads. Trees 28 to 83 are within the vicinity of all these routes and are outside of a 14-foot clearance height (or greater), and outside of the road prism.
Additionally, these trees are located within planters or curbed areas, offering them protection from vehicles or equipment.
The proposed western digital billboard sign is expected to require the removal of three protected trees, identified as Trees 6-8 on Figure 1 (see Appendix 2: Photo 2). These trees are located directly under the proposed sign location or immediately adjacent. Due to the proximity of the trees to the proposed location and future safety concerns, it is recommended the trees are removed prior to the proposed start of construction. All three of the trees are in varying health and structural condition, and one of the three received a poor rating for suitability for preservation.
Trees 84-90 are located within the adjacent off-site easement and are expected to be removed as identified on Figure 2 (see Appendix 2: Photos 9- 11). These trees are located near the western billboard sign location and are proposed for removal to improve the sight of th e billboard from Highway 50. All of these trees are in good to fair health and structure, receiving good to moderate ratings for suitability for preservation.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
5 Table 1. Trees Impacted by Project Activities
Tree
Tag #
Common
Name
Scientific
Name
DSH
(in.)
Tree
Height
(ft.)
Canopy
Width
(ft.)
Health
Condition
Structural
Condition
Suitability
for
Preservation
Project
Impact Additional Notes
6 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 19 50 40 Good Fair Moderate Removal
Minor (2-5%) canopy dieback,
canopy unbalanced to west, large
wound healed fully on trunk,
lateral branch has wound
partially healed, concrete
surrounding 2/3 of tree
7 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 11.5 40 28 Fair Poor Poor Removal
Canopy dieback 10-15%,10-
degree lean, heavy unbalanced
canopy to northeast, epicormic
sprouts on trunk, 100%
surrounded by concrete
8 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 26.5 65 57 Good Fair Moderate Removal
Canopy dieback <5%, co-
dominant tree with included bark
(DSH: 18.25in., 16.75in.),
normal vigor, cabled 30ft high
between stems, slight
unbalanced canopy
84 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 19.75 40 45 Good Fair Moderate Removal
Recent pruning, branch structure
problematic with multiple stems
originating from same location
on main trunk, compacted soil
with 1/3rd surrounded by
pavement
85 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 17 32 30 Fair Fair Moderate Removal
Recent pruning, canopy dieback
15%, 5% lean, measured at 46”
due to growth, compacted soil
with 1/3rd surrounded by
pavement
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
6 86 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 9.5 25 18 Good Good Good Removal
Recent pruning, canopy dieback
<5%, measured at 46” due to
growth, compacted soil with
1/3rd surrounded by pavement
87 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 10.75 20 15 Good Good Good Removal
Recent pruning, co-dominant
stems in canopy, cavity at base
of tree that has partially healed,
compacted soil with 1/3rd
surrounded by pavement
88 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 51.75 65 70 Good Fair Moderate Removal
Recent pruning, canopy dieback
<5%, co-dominant stems in
canopy, cavity at base of tree
that has partially healed,
compacted soil with 1/3rd
surrounded by pavement, poison
oak at base
89 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 8 18 12 Good Good Good Removal
Recent pruning, 5% lean,
compacted soil with 1/3rd
surrounded by pavement
90 Valley oak Quercus
lobata 10.75 20 15 Fair Fair Moderate Removal
Recent pruning, branch structure
problematic with multiple stems
originating from same location
on main trunk, compacted soil
with 1/3rd surrounded by
pavement
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Enlargement Area
Highway 50Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
1 5 3
2 6
8 4
7 9
10 11
12 13
14 15
16 17 18 19 26
20 21
22 23
24 25 27
28 29
30 31
32 33
34 35
36 42 & 43
37-41
44 45
46 47
49 48
50 51
52 53
5455 57-59
56 60
61 62 64
63 65
66 67 68
69 70
71 72
73 74
75 Aerial Photo Courtesy of Google Earth
Approximate
Area
of City
Overcrossing
Project
Enlargement Area (see map below)
200' 400 feet0
Approximate Scale
400'
El Dorado Freeway
Highway 50
Existing Billboard
(to be removed)
Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
1 5
3 2
6 8
4 7 9
10 11
1213
1415
1617 18 19 26
20 21
22 23
24 25
27 28
29 30
31 32
33 34 35
36 42 & 43
37-41
44 45
46 47
49 48 50
51 52
53 5455 57-59
56 60
61 62 64
63 65
66 67 68
69 70
71 72
73 74
75 76 77
78 79
80 81
82 83
500' 1,000 feet0
Approximate Scale
1,000'
LEGEND
Project Boundary
Tree Canopy
Tree Trunk Location with Tag Number22
Base Map Courtesy of RSC Engineering
Project #Date Figure #
13/14/2023
2698-01
2300 Mineshaft Digital Billboards
Tree Inventory with Site Plan
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Enlargement Area
Original Study Area Boundary
Enlargement Area (see map below)
Original Study Area
Highway 50
El Dorado Freeway
Highway 50
Additonal Study Area Boundary
84 85
86 87
88 89 90
Additonal Study Area Boundary
500' 1,000 feet0
Approximate Scale
1,000'
Aerial Photo Courtesy of Google Earth 2/2022
Project #Date Figure #
27/28/2023
2698-01
2300 Mineshaft Digital Billboards
Adjacent Off-Site Easement
LEGEND
Additional Study Area Boundary
Tree Canopy
Tree Trunk Location with Tag Number
22 200' 200 feet0
Approximate Scale
100'
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
9 All of the trees are valley oaks, and this species is prone to sudden branch drop which poses risks to structures and people, especially during extreme weather events. Like the rest of the trees on the subject parcel, the three trees to be removed are surrounded by development including pavement, sidewalks, buildings, and/or utilities. As such, their removal would not degrade or diminish a natural community and would be unlikely to compromise local plant and animal populations.
The electrical trench has no design yet according to the March 2023 plans. If the electrical trench will be located within the dripline of any protected tree, then a certified arborist should evaluate the protected trees to determine if the trenching will cause major root impacts.
Lastly, the City of Rancho Cordova’s Parkway Interchange Project will be removing Trees 9 -26, east of the western digital billboard location, at the start of this project. These trees are located within the City of Rancho Cordova’s Parkway Interchange Project’s construction staging area. With the removal of Trees 9-26 by the City, this allows for crane clearance to install the western digital billboard for the Cordova Community Council Project.
Tree Protection Plan and Performance Standards
No tree protection plan is recommended for the eastern digital billboard sign and existing billboard removal activities. As discussed previously, there are no protected trees within approximately 1,000 feet of the work area and all trees within the access area are outside of the standard clearance height and road prism for large machinery. Furthermore, Trees 28-83 are within planters or curbed areas offering them further protection from traffic when accessing the eastern portion or western portion of the project site.
A tree protection plan is recommended for the western digital billboard sign project activities. As discussed previously, three trees are planned for removal. No trees are likely to sustain major root impacts. Four trees within the project work area will require tree protection fencing to prevent damage because their roots and canopy are within the work vicinity. This includes only trees on the western side of the project site (see Figure3). The tree protection fencing location shall be shown on the final site plan or grading plan. Hardscape surrounds some of the existing protected trees. If the hardscape is not being removed or altered, the tree protection fencing may need to be installed at the edge of the hardscape areas, not the edge of the tree’s dripline. If the hardscape is being removed, then the tree protection fencing must be installed at the tree’s dripline to prevent any major root damage. This will need to be at the discretion of the contractors since a certified arborist will not be on site. All of the tree protection performance standards are described below and shall be followed to stay in compliance with the City tree ordinance.
Tree and Stump Removal
For the tree removal effort, appropriate methods are required t o prevent further damage to the surrounding protected trees as well as existing infrastructure on the property. These methods include directional felling and rigging down. Stump removal is required for this project. Stumps are required to be removed to the ground down to a depth of 4 inches below grade, or the entire tree stump shall be removed. Lastly, the woody debris can be disposed of and removed off site in any fashion since there is no concern of pest or disease spreading.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Enlargement Area
Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
Proposed
Overpass
Location
Project Boundary
Proposed Tree Protection Fence
Tree Canopy
Tree Trunk Location
200'
Enlargement Area (see map below)
200 feet0
Approximate Scale
100'
El Dorado Freeway
Highway 50
Existing Billboard
(to be removed)
Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
Proposed Digital
Billboard Sign
Location
1 5
3 2
6 8
4 7 9
10 11
1213
1415
1617 18 19 26
20 21
22 23
24 25
27 28
29 30
31 32
33 34 35
36 42 & 43
37-41
44 45
46 47
49 48 50
51 52
53 5455 57-59
56 60
61 62 64
63 65
66 67 68
69 70
71 72
73 74
75 76 77
78 79
80 81
82 83
27 1
5 3
2 6
8 4
7 9
10 11
1213
14 15
16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24
25 26
500' 1,000 feet0
Approximate Scale
1,000'
LEGEND
Project Boundary
Tree Canopy
Tree Trunk Location with Tag Number22
Base Map Courtesy of RSC Engineering Project #Date Figure # 33/29/2023
2698-01
2300 Mineshaft Digital Billboards
Tree Protection Fencing
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
11 Tree Protection Fencing
All trees with canopies within 20 feet of construction areas will be required to have tree protection fencing installed prior to any clearing, grubbing, trenching, grading, or land disturbances. The fencing shall be installed around the edge of the canopy as shown in the designated fencing locations of Figure 3. This includes Trees 2-4, and 27. The fencing shall be temporary, readily visible, and a minimum of 4 feet high and constructed of chain link, orange plastic mesh fence, or a similar material with stationary posts at approximate 10-foot intervals. The fencing shall effectively keep the canopy and trunk of the tree clear from direct contact and damage by foot traffic, equipment, materials, or disturbances, as well as preserve the roots and soil in an intact and non-compacted state.
For any approved work completed within the fenced Tree Protection Zone, fencing will need to be opened and careful excavation shall be done with small equipment, hand tools , or hydraulic or pneumatic tools to expose roots. The project arborist will be required to evaluate roots greater than 3 inches in diameter that may need to be cut.
Trenching
During trenching or digging activities, any roots greater than 2 inches in diameter should be trimmed using ISA root pruning standards as described in ANSI Standard A300 (Part 8) to prevent disease and decay from entering the tree. This protocol requires that the root be cut cleanly where the root stops shredding using a sharp tool (hand saw, sharp hand pruner, or Sawzall). The root should be cut perpendicular to growth, not at an angle like cut flowers. Additionally, any roots encountered that are greater than 4 inches in diameter are potentially structural to the tree and should not be impacted without the construction contractor notifying the property owner first. This may require project activities to pause temporarily.
General Provisions
All large equipment such as cranes, excavators, backhoes, or trucks that are used to complete project activities shall remain on existing paved surfaces wherever possible and shall remain outside of the fenced tree protection areas. All stockpiles of material shall be staged in a designated area located at least 5 feet outside of any tree canopy; this designated area shall be identified prior to the start of construction. Equipment shall not be allowed to operate west of the line of fence shown in Figure 3.
Any washout material or residue from concrete pouring and mixing can alter the pH of soil , harm vegetation or trees, or impact water quality of nearby drainages or the water table. Tarps or plastic shall be placed underneath the concrete truck or mixing location to prevent spilling of liquid onto a permeable surface. A spill kit must be kept on site to effectively manage the spilling or leaking of fluids on any type of surface within the project area.
If tree pruning is required for any reason, although it is not anticipated, it shall be conducted in compliance with the ISA Tree-Pruning Guidelines and ANSI Standard A300 (Part 1). Any pruning that is greater than 10% of a tree’s canopy or limbs greater than 2 inches in diameter is considered major pruning, and an arborist shall be contacted prior to any work being completed for best recommendations.
Lastly, construction personnel shall report unanticipated damage to trees from construction activities to the arborist or permit contact immediately. It is recommended that an arborist then give remediation recommendations if appropriate.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
12 Tree Protection Training
The City requires that all construction personnel on site be notified of the tree protection measures in this document prior to the start of construction. Crew personnel shall be reminded to not stage equipment, drive equipment, or stockpile materials under any tree’s canopy on the project site because not all protected trees on site are subject to the tree protection fencing shown in Figure 3. A pamphlet summarizing the tree protection plan and general provisions specific to this project will be provided to the construction manager to keep it on site in case potential issues arise.
At the time of the training, an arborist or their designee will also check that all the tree protection fencing is in place prior to any project activities occurring. It is expected tha t the tree protection fencing will be installed prior to the removal of the proposed three trees, or any other construction related activities.
Tree Replacement Plan
Of the 90 protected trees on site, ten trees are expected to be removed for project activities (Figures 1 and 2). Trees 6-8 are located directly under the proposed sign location or immediately adjacent.
Trees 84-90 are located in the adjacent off -site easement. Due to the proximity of the trees to the proposed location, future safety concerns, and visual block of the new western digital billboard, these trees are proposed for removal. Since there is no suitable location to replace trees on site and there is no designated off-site location, the applicant has requested the tree replacement plan follows the guidelines in Chapter 19.12.110.C.2 which states the replacement will be by payment of an in -lieu fee. For calculation of the replacement ratio, Chapter 19.12.110 .D as follows, defines the ratio for which protected trees that are removed should be replaced for lots that are not single-unit or duplex dwellings:
Replacement Equivalents. The following equivalent sizes shall be used whenever new trees are planted pursuant to a tree replacement plan or other equivalency calculation made by the director:
1. A tree in a 15-gallon container or smaller equals one-inch DSH;
2. A tree in a 24-inch box equals two-inch DSH; or
3. A tree in a 36-inch box or larger equals three-inch DSH.
Table 2 provides the expected replacement ratios for each tree proposed for removal. The replacement ratios are assumed to be for 15-gallon container trees and are then calculated based on the DSH for each individual tree. This replacement equivale nt will be followed because the project site is located on a non-residential property (Chapter 19.120.B.2). Lastly, the contribution toward the in-lieu fund held by the City of Rancho Cordova Tree Fund. On September 12, 2022, the City determined the in-lieu fees to be a total of $21,738.75 (131.75 DSH inches x $165 per inch). This fee is subject to change and is anticipated to change with the July 2023 revision, which is removing ten trees. If any of the project scope is changed further, the in-lieu fees will change.
Table 2. Protected Trees to be Removed.
Tree Tag # Common Name Scientific Name DSH (in.) Replacement Ratios 6 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19 1:19
7 Valley oak Quercus lobata 11.5 1:12
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
13 8 Valley oak Quercus lobata 26.5 1:27
84 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19.75 1:20
85 Valley oak Quercus lobata 17 1:17
86 Valley oak Quercus lobata 9.5 1:10
87 Valley oak Quercus lobata 10.75 1:11
88 Valley oak Quercus lobata 51.75 1:52
89 Valley oak Quercus lobata 8 1:8
90 Valley oak Quercus lobata 10.75 1:11
Conclusion
To conclude, the project activities will result in the removal of ten trees (Trees 6-8, 84-90). The tree protection measures in this report will also prevent and minimize any other construction related impacts that may occur to Trees 2-4, and 27. The tree replacement plan includes payment of an in - lieu fee to a tree program fund held by the City of Rancho Cordova Tree Fund. Construction activities should be considered a reasonable use of property.
The basis for this arborist evaluation is limited to the visual examination of accessible parts during the May 2022 and July 2023 tree surveys, without dissection, excavation, probing, or coring. There is no warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, that problems or deficiencies of the trees in question may not arise in the future.
Please let us know if you have any questions or require clarification regarding this evaluation.
Sincerely,
Colleen M. Del Vecchio
ISA Certified Arborist, TRAQ, #WE-11788A
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
14 Attachment 1: Tree Inventory
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
15 Tree Inventory of All Protected Trees at 2300 Mine Shaft Lane Tree
Tag
Number
Common Name Scientific Name Diameter at
Standard
Height
(DSH)
(inches)*
Tree
Height
(feet)
Canopy
Width
(feet)
Additional Notes
1 Valley oak Quercus lobata 29 45 55
2 Valley oak Quercus lobata 29 65 55
3 Valley oak Quercus lobata 43.5 65 80 Multi-stem tree (35.5”, 16”) 4 Valley oak Quercus lobata 27.25 45 50
Multi-stem tree (20”, 18.5”,
16”)
5 Canary Island
palm
Phoenix
canariensis 28 20 18
DSH estimated due to
inaccessibility
6 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19 50 40
7 Valley oak Quercus lobata 11.5 40 28
8 Valley oak Quercus lobata 26.5 65 57
Multi-stem tree (18.25”,
16.75”)
9 Valley oak Quercus lobata 9 40 25
10 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24 55 48
11 Valley oak Quercus lobata 28 70 58
12 Valley oak Quercus lobata 14 35 35
13 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19 55 38
14 Valley oak Quercus lobata 11.5
15 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19.5 50 50
16 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 21.5 28 30
Multi-stem tree (12”, 10.5”,
8.5”)
17 Valley oak Quercus lobata 33 65 55
Multi-stem tree (22.25”,
21.5”)
18 Valley oak Quercus lobata 21 40 38
19 Valley oak Quercus lobata 30 55 55
20 Valley oak Quercus lobata 21 40 45
21 Valley oak Quercus lobata 22 50 40
22 Valley oak Quercus lobata 18 45 35
23 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19.75 55 58
24 Blue oak
Quercus
douglasii 24 50 50
25 Valley oak Quercus lobata 22 60 45
26 Mexican fan
palm
Washingtonia
robusta 19, 15, 15.75
20-30
range 18
3 palm trees (cluster)
27 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 32 45 45
28 Blue oak
Quercus
douglasii 30.5 40 42
Multi-stem tree, DSH
measured at 36” due to
growth of tree
29 interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 27 45 46
Multi-stem tree (19”, 16”),
smaller limb measured at 50"
due to growth of tree
30 Valley oak Quercus lobata 22 45 30
31 Valley oak Quercus lobata 35.5 45 50
Multi-stem tree (21”, 15”,
14”)
32 Blue oak
Quercus
douglasii 17.5 35 35
33 Valley oak Quercus lobata 30 35 40 Multi-stem tree (21”, 16”) ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
16 34 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 20.5 25 30 Multi-stem tree (15.5”, 10”) 35 Valley oak Quercus lobata 17 40 40
36 Valley oak Quercus lobata 22.5 55 60
37 Valley oak Quercus lobata 13.5 50 35
38 Valley oak Quercus lobata 14.5 45 25
39 Valley oak Quercus lobata 9 35 12
40 Valley oak Quercus lobata 7.5 30 15
41 Valley oak Quercus lobata 11 35 25
42 Valley oak Quercus lobata 13 35 32
43 Valley oak Quercus lobata 10.5 25 30
44 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24 60 40
45 Valley oak Quercus lobata 8.5 30 20
46 Valley oak Quercus lobata 20 40 38
47 Valley oak Quercus lobata 17 50 48
48 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 21.5 40 30
Root sprout at base of tree,
6.5” diameter
49 Valley oak Quercus lobata 17 40 45
50 Valley oak Quercus lobata 25 45 48
51 Valley oak Quercus lobata 20 45 50 Multi-stem tree (14”, 12.5”) 52 Valley oak Quercus lobata 18.5 35 38
53 Valley oak Quercus lobata 20 45 48
54 Valley oak Quercus lobata 23 50 50
55 Valley oak Quercus lobata 26 55 48
56 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 14.5 30 25
57 Valley oak Quercus lobata 18.5 35 41
58 interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 14 20 35
DSH measured at 45" due to
growth of tree
59 Valley oak Quercus lobata 13 30 30
60 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 32 65 65
61 Valley oak Quercus lobata 27.5 55 55
62 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 10 30 30
63 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 14 35 28
64 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 23.5 40 52 Multi-stem tree (18”, 11”) 65 Valley oak Quercus lobata 18 35 55
66 Valley oak Quercus lobata 36.5 45 70
67 Valley oak Quercus lobata 29.5 45 55
68 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24 45 70
69 Valley oak Quercus lobata 22.5 50 55
70 Valley oak Quercus lobata 31 60 60
71 Valley oak Quercus lobata 26 60 60
72 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 38 65 60
73 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24.5 60 50
74 Valley oak Quercus lobata 34 65 68
Co-dominant stems (20.5”,
23.5”)
75 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24 65 50
76 Valley oak Quercus lobata 41 60 65
77 Valley oak Quercus lobata 30 75 58
78 Valley oak Quercus lobata 35 75 62
79 Valley oak Quercus lobata 48 65 72
80 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 30.5 50 50
81 Valley oak Quercus lobata 18 40 42
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
17 82 Valley oak Quercus lobata 24.5 45 48
83 Interior live oak Quercus wislizeni 37 55 58
84 Valley oak Quercus lobata 19.75 40 45
85 Valley oak Quercus lobata 17 32 30
DSH measured at 46" due to
growth of tree
86 Valley oak Quercus lobata 9.5 25 18
87 Valley oak Quercus lobata 10.75 20 15
88 Valley oak Quercus lobata 51.75 65 70
89 Valley oak Quercus lobata 8 18 12
90 Valley oak Quercus lobata 10.75 20 15
*If any measurements were taken at a different standard than the City, it is noted ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
18 Attachment 2: Photographs of Site Evaluation, May 2022
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Attachment 2: Photographs of Site Evaluation, May 2022 and July 2023
22 ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
22 Photo 1. Overview of proposed west digital billboard location, facing west
Photo 2. Overview of trees 6-8 expected to be removed from proposed west billboard location, facing west
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
23 Photo 3. Overview of existing billboard that is proposed for removal, facing east
Photo 4. Existing billboard is not expected to impact any protected trees whether on the project parcel or adjacent
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
24 Photo 5. Overview of proposed location for east digital billboard, facing west, no impacts expected
Photo 6. Overview of access to the east side of parcel from Mine Shaft Ln off Folsom Blvd ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
25 Photo 7. Overview of access to west side of parcel from Mineshaft Ln off Folsom Blvd
Photo 8. Overview of continued access to west side of parcel near existing building
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
26 Photo 9. Overview of adjacent off-site easement with 7 tree removals, facing east Photo 10. Overview of adjacent off-site easement with 7 tree removals, facing west
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
27 Photo 11. Close-up of Tree 88, a large valley oak tree proposed for removal
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
23 Attachment 5: City of Rancho Cordova Preservation
and Protection of Private Trees
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
Chapter 19.12
PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES
Sections:
19.12.010
Purpose and intent.
19.12.020
Word construction.
19.12.030
Definitions.
19.12.040
Protected tree permit required.
19.12.050
Application procedure.
19.12.060
Protected tree permit provisions.
19.12.070
Decision criteria.
19.12.080
Emergency conditions.
19.12.090
Prohibited actions relating to protected trees.
19.12.100
Activity allowed near protected trees.
19.12.110
Appeal of denial of protected tree permit.
19.12.120
Tree replacement plan.
19.12.130
Replanting security.
19.12.140
Grading beneath protected tree driplines.
19.12.150
Development control measures.
19.12.160
Tree protection plan.
19.12.170
Protected tree reports for tentative subdivision maps.
19.12.180
Protected tree reports for parcel maps.
19.12.190
Stop work order.
19.12.200
Fees.
19.12.210
Exemption of city from Solar Shade Control Act.
19.12.220
Tree stumps prohibited.
19.12.230
Public nuisances.
19.12.240
Violations.
19.12.250
Enforcement.
19.12.260
Appeals and abatement procedures.
19.12.270
Interference with authorized personnel.
19.12.010 Purpose and intent.
A.
Native oak trees grew naturally in Rancho Cordova. As the area has been developed, many types of trees have been planted. Trees are a community asset that cannot provide benefits without human maintenance, ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] care, and protection. A clearly defined, reasonable, and effective ordinance guides the growth of a long-term community tree canopy that provides improved air quality, public and mental health, welfare, safety and environmental benefits to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Rancho Cordova. Trees on both public and private properties contribute to the community tree canopy and the growing of trees on both public and private property is necessary to sustain a community-wide tree canopy. Furthermore, it is recognized that the preservation of trees enhances the natural scenic beauty, sustains the long-term potential increase in property values, which encourages quality development, maintains the original ecology, retains the original tempering effect of extreme temperatures, increases the attractiveness of the city to visitors, helps to reduce soil erosion, and increases the oxygen output of the area which is needed to combat air pollution. For these reasons, in order to promote the health, safety, and general welfare, to preserve and protect significant historical heritage values, to enhance the beauty of the city of Rancho Cordova, and to complement and strengthen zoning, subdivision and land use standards and regulations, while at the same time recognizing individual rights to develop private property, the city council adopts this chapter, establishing basic standards and measures for the preservation and protection of trees.
B.
It shall be the policy of the city to preserve all trees possible through its development review process.
C.
It is the intent of this chapter to establish regulations for the protection, removal, and preservation of landmark trees and protected trees, as defined herein, within the city in order to retain as many trees as possible consistent with the purpose hereof and the reasonable economic enjoyment of all property in the city.
D.
In order to promote health and safety and enhance the beauty and general welfare of Rancho Cordova, it is hereby declared to be the policy of the city to eliminate dangerous conditions caused by trees, shrubs and tree stumps that may result in injuries to persons or property; and to protect all public trees within the city from the spread of disease or pests. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.020 Word construction.
Unless the provisions or the context otherwise requires, the following rules of construction and definitions shall govern the construction of this chapter. The singular number includes the plural, and the plural, the singular. The masculine gender includes the feminine. The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future, the present. “Shall” is mandatory and “may” is permissive. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.030 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter the following words and terms have the following meanings:
A.
“Approving body,” as used in this chapter, shall be any one of the following: city council, public works director, planning commission, or the planning director.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] B. “Business day” means a day the city of Rancho Cordova City Hall is open for business.
C. “Certified arborist” means an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture with current certification standing, meeting all current renewal requirements and continuing education requirements; or an ASCA registered consulting arborist with current membership standing, meeting all continuing education requirements; or a Society of American Foresters (SAF) certified urban forester in good standing.
D.
“City” means the city of Rancho Cordova.
E.
“City council” means the city council of the city of Rancho Cordova.
F.
“City arborist” is any certified arborist designated by the public works director, or his or her designee, to act as arborist on behalf of the city of Rancho Cordova.
G.
“Damaged or destroyed tree” means the cutting and removal of any protected tree without a tree permit such that more than 50 percent of the live foliage or buds from a protected tree within a 12-month period were removed; the cutting and removal of an entire protected tree; physical damage to a trunk or main leader 50 percent or greater of the circumference; or damage to greater than 33 percent of the root system of a protected tree.
H.
“Development project” means any exterior construction work associated with or requiring a building or grading permit for any new building, building addition, building demolition, site grading, excavation or site paving.
I.
“Diameter at standard height” or “DSH” means the diameter of a tree measured at four and one-half feet above natural grade, except as specified below. The diameter shall be calculated by using the following formula: diameter equals circumference/3.14.
1. For a tree that branches at or below four and one-half feet, DSH means the diameter at the narrowest point between the grade and the branching point.
2. For a tree with a common root system that branches at the ground, DSH means the sum of the diameter of the largest trunk and one-half the cumulative diameter of the remaining trunks at four and one-half feet above natural grade.
J.
“Discretionary project,” as used in this chapter, shall be a project that must be approved by one of the following approving bodies: city council, planning commission, or planning director. Discretionary projects shall include, but are not limited to, a special development permit, a parcel map, a parking reduction permit, a rezone, a site plan approval permit, a subdivision map, a variance, or a conditional use permit.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] K. “Dripline” means the maximum measurement from the center of the tree trunk to the most outward lateral branch of the foliar crown of a protected tree.
L.
“Easement” means any utility easement, drainage easement, sanitary sewer easement or other legal easement within the city boundaries.
M.
“Landmark trees” means any trees designated by council through resolution as a vital and historical part of the city’s landscape such that the trees need to be designated as landmarks for protection and preservation.
N.
“Maintain” or “maintenance,” when used in reference to trees, shall mean and include pruning, spraying, mulching, fertilizing, cultivating, supporting, treating for disease or injury, promoting public safety, or any other similar act which promotes the life, growth, health or beauty of trees.
O.
“Major trimming” means a cutting or pruning in a way which reduces the overall canopy of the tree by 10 percent or more, or cutting of roots or branches greater than two inches diameter within a 12-month period.
P.
“Minor trimming” means a cutting or pruning in a way which reduces the overall canopy by less than 10 percent, does not significantly reduce the overall canopy of the tree, and does not cut roots or branches greater than two inches diameter within a 12-month period.
Q.
“Permittee” means a person who has been granted a protected tree permit as provided in this chapter.
R.
“Person” includes a natural person, legal owner, firm, association, corporation, co-partnership, trustee, receiver, utility, or an agent or employee thereof.
S.
“Planning director” means the planning director of the city of Rancho Cordova, or his or her designee.
T.
“Planting easement” means an area of land, usually a strip of land adjoining a street right-of-way, which has been dedicated for the purpose of growing trees, shrubs, or other vegetation.
U.
“Private land” shall include all land owned by private interest, and not designated city-owned land.
V.
“Protected tree” means:
1. Native oak – Quercus lobata, valley oak; Quercus wislizenii, interior live oak; Quercus douglasii, blue oak; or Quercus morehus, oracle oak – having a trunk diameter of at least six inches or greater; or
2. Any tree species other than a native oak having a trunk diameter of at least 12 inches or greater on nonresidential property; or
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
3. Any tree species other than a native oak having a trunk diameter of at least 24 inches or greater on residential property; or
4. Any tree planted as a requirement tree for site development, tree permit condition, landscape plan removal replacement, or other designated condition by the public works director or planning director.
5. “Protected tree” does not include any trees for sale within the city sold by a nursery.
W.
“Public premises” includes city-owned properties, including but not limited to properties in the right-of-way and owned or managed by the city.
X.
“Public nuisance tree” means any tree or shrub that is maintained in violation of this chapter.
Y.
“Public tree” means a tree or shrub whose trunk is planted in a street, planting easement, public premises, public sidewalk, median, traffic island or any other right-of-way owned or controlled by the city through an easement, license, fee title, or other permissive grant of use and maintained by the city.
Z.
“Public works director” means the director of the department of public works of the city of Rancho Cordova, or his or her designee.
AA.
Replacement Value. For purposes of this chapter, “replacement value” shall be determined utilizing the most recent edition of the Guide for Plant Appraisal, published by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers.
BB.
“Street” includes the right-of-way width of any city-maintained street, avenue, boulevard, line, walk, road, parkway, alley, or other right-of-way for highway purposes, as determined by the department of public works.
CC.
“Topping” means a major trimming of a protected tree which reduces the overall canopy of the tree by more than 50 percent. Topping shall be prohibited in the city, unless otherwise permitted by the public works director.
DD.
“Tree permit” means an authorization by the public works director for the planting, major trimming, treatment, or removal of a protected tree.
EE.
“Tree protection plan” shall be submitted for approval by the public works director for protecting trees during any site development as requested by the planning director. A plan shall be prepared by a certified arborist stating the protection, steps required and approved work within the dripline or other designated protected areas near protected trees. The tree protection plan shall be included on all construction documents, specification documents, and explained to all contractors and subcontractors working on the ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] subject project.
FF. “Tree purchase specifications” means the specifications that designate the acceptable branching and foliar crown, tree structure, and root system for any trees to be planted in the subject project for the landscape design submitted for approval with a development project or building permit.
GG.
“Tree stump” means any portion of the base or trunk of a tree and its roots that remain after a tree is removed. For purposes of this chapter, a “tree stump” must have a diameter of at least six inches or greater. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.040 Protected tree permit required.
No person shall trench, grade or fill within the dripline of any protected tree, or damage, kill or remove any protected tree, or perform a major trimming of any protected tree without an approved tree permit.
It shall be the responsibility of the owner or lessee/tenant of the property on which the protected tree is located and the person performing tree work to have the approved tree permit and/or a copy of the conditions of permit approval at the work site. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.050 Application procedure.
Any person needing a protected tree permit for one or more protected trees shall make application to the public works director. Said application shall contain:
A.
A brief statement of the reasons for removal or major trimming, written by a certified arborist; B.
Consent of the owner of record of the land on which the proposed activity is to occur; C.
A tree inventory including: site sketch or site plan showing the accurate location, number of trees affected, species, trunk diameter, approximate height, and approximate dripline of the tree or trees to be removed; D.
If the project involves other discretionary development, then this inventory must be part of the total development plan and must also describe any tree or trees which could be affected by the proposed development;
E.
If the application is for the removal of a protected tree, the applicant shall also submit a tree replacement plan pursuant to the standards set forth in RCMC 19.12.120, or as may be amended; F.
Any other pertinent information; and
G.
The application and statement from a certified arborist for a tree permit shall be reviewed by staff within 20 business days of submittal. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
19.12.060 Protected tree permit provisions.
A.
A granted protected tree permit shall be valid for a period of six months from the date of issuance. An extension of time may be granted not to exceed six months.
B.
The public works director may impose such reasonable conditions of approval as are necessary and appropriate to minimize the environmental, health or safety effects of the development or use.
C.
The protected tree permit or a copy of the conditions of approval shall be kept at the tree removal site at all times.
D.
The protected tree permit, or the conditions of approval, shall entitle the applicant to remove or trim only the protected tree or trees approved.
E.
If the tree or shrub is to be removed, grinding out the stump to a depth of four inches below grade or the entire removal of the tree stump shall be required. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.070 Decision criteria.
Prior to the issuance of a protected tree permit, the public works director shall review the request. The determination in granting or denying a permit shall be based on the following criteria:
A.
The protected tree is found to be dead;
B.
The protected tree is found to be dying, and 50 percent or greater of the leaves and buds are dead; C.
The protected tree is found to be attacked by an insect or disease that cannot be mitigated without removing the tree;
D.
The protected tree is found to be structurally unsound or presents a significant risk that cannot be reasonably mitigated without removing the tree;
E.
The number of trees on a property is overcrowded to where the individual canopy of the protected tree is overlapped or compromised, and the removal of the protected tree would not reduce the property’s tree canopy cover;
F.
Whether or not the preservation of the tree would compromise the reasonable use of an owner’s development of land;
G.
The number of healthy trees that a given parcel of land will support; H.
The effect of tree removal on soil stability/erosion, particularly near watercourses or on steep slopes; ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] I. The potential for the tree to be a public nuisance, or interfere with utility service, as well as its proximity to existing structures;
J.
The extent to which the tree interferes with efficient operation of a preexisting solar energy system or the potential for the construction of a solar energy system; K.
Whether or not there are any alternatives that would allow for the preservation of the tree; L.
If the applicant is seeking to conduct a major trimming, the public works director will consider the type of trimming and the effect the trimming or pruning will have on the overall health of the tree; M.
The overall impact on the environment;
N.
The proposed tree replacement plan pursuant to the standards set forth in RCMC 19.12.120, or as may be amended; and
O.
Any other information the public works director finds pertinent to the decision. The protected tree shall be scheduled for a site inspection, if necessary, after receipt of the tree permit application and accompanying certified arborist statement. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.080 Emergency conditions.
An emergency condition shall exist when a protected tree creates an imminent and serious threat to the health and safety of the community or nearby property. Emergency removals shall require an after-the-fact application for approval. A permit application shall be submitted within 10 business days following the date of tree removal and shall include a photograph of the condition requiring removal, and a letter from a certified arborist or report from a recognized emergency worker documenting the emergency condition. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.090 Prohibited actions relating to protected trees.
No person shall, without an approved permit from the public works director, do, or cause to be done by others, any of the following acts:
A.
Secure, fasten, or run any rope, wire, sign, unprotected electrical installation or other device or material to, around, or through a protected tree;
B.
Break, injure, deface, kill, or destroy a protected tree or allow any fire to burn where it will injure any protected tree;
C.
Allow any chemical, gas, smoke, salt brine, oil, pesticide, or other injurious substance to seep, drain, or be ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] emptied upon, above, or below any protected tree;
D. Excavate any ditch, tunnel, or trench, or fill within the dripline of any protected tree; E.
Erect, alter, repair or raze any building or structure without placing suitable guards around all nearby protected trees which may be injured by such operations; F.
Remove any guard or other device or materials intended for the protection of a protected tree or take away or obstruct any open space around the base of a protected tree designed to prevent soil compaction or physical damage; or
G.
Allow the topping of any protected tree. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.100 Activity allowed near protected trees.
The following activities are permitted around or near protected trees without a protected tree permit:
A.
Paving for existing streets and/or driveways under the supervision of an arborist to guarantee appropriate measures are taken to ensure tree conservation;
B.
Parking or operation of motor vehicles within the protected zone on existing paved areas; C.
Placement or storage of equipment or construction material within the protected zone on existing paved areas;
D.
Maintenance of under-canopy landscaping for nonnative oak species; E.
Maintenance activities approved by the city within improved parking lots; F.
Pruning of broken branches damaged by weather or failure; G.
Activity performed by a public utility necessary to comply with safety regulations or to repair or avoid the interruption of services, provided such activity is done under the supervision of a certified arborist. [Ord. 12- 2017 §
2].
19.12.110 Appeal of denial of protected tree permit.
A.
If a permit is denied, the public works director shall provide written notification, including the reasons for denial, to the applicant.
B.
The applicant shall have 15 days from the time of the mailing of the aforesaid notice to file an appeal with the city concerning the denial of the tree permit by the public works director. The city manager, or his or her designee, shall appoint a hearing officer. The appeal hearing shall be conducted pursuant to RCMC ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
16.18.205(F)(8), or as may be amended. [Ord. 12-2017 § 2].
19.12.120
Tree replacement plan.
A.
When replacement for tree loss is required by this chapter or through the CEQA process, replacement of the tree shall be provided consistent with the standards set forth in this section. Applicants who are granted permits to remove protected trees shall be required to prepare and implement a tree replacement plan.
B.
Replacement Standards.
1. A tree replacement plan for private protected trees located on lots that include single-unit or duplex dwellings must provide for the replacement of one tree for each protected tree removed.
2. Any other tree replacement plan must provide for the replacement of trees at a ratio of one-inch DSH of tree replaced for each inch DSH of tree removed (1:1 ratio) pursuant to subsection (D) of this section, or as may be amended.
3. If tree is removed without an approved permit, the city may impose in-lieu fees and tree replacement based on the tree’s replacement equivalent, as set forth in subsections (C) and (D) of this section.
C.
Replacement Options.
1. On-Site or Off-Site Replacement. A tree replacement plan that includes on-site or off-site replacement shall specify where the trees shall be planted and how the trees shall be monitored and maintained for a time period as determined by the public works director. The public works director may require security to ensure that the replacement trees survive for the minimum establishment period as provided in subsection (F) of this section. If the public works director determines that a tree cannot be planted on site or other suitable off-site location within the city due to a reasonable site condition, the applicant shall pay an in-lieu fee as described in subsection (C)(2) of this section into the Rancho Cordova tree program fund, as described in subsection (G) of this section. The fee shall be calculated as the current Rancho Cordova tree or landscape maintenance contract price for purchasing, planting, and providing irrigation to an equivalent number of 15-gallon-size tree containers, as calculated per subsection (D) of this section.
2. Payment of an In-Lieu Fee. The applicant may pay a fee for the loss of the trees in an amount established by resolution of the city council. The in-lieu fee shall be calculated as the current Rancho Cordova tree or landscape maintenance contract price for purchasing, planting, and providing irrigation to an equivalent number of 15-gallon-size tree containers, as calculated per subsection (D) of this section. Such monies shall be deposited in the tree program fund, as described in subsection (G) of this section.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
3. Credit for Existing Trees Smaller Than a Private Protected Tree. An applicant may be entitled to replacement credit when the applicant preserves trees that are on the same lot from which the private protected trees were removed and that are smaller than the size requirements of private protected trees. To be entitled to the credit, the preserved trees must be viable long-term. The director shall determine whether a tree is viable long-term by considering the location of the trees, the quality of the environment in which the trees are located, potential impacts to the trees from any proposed development, and other factors that the director deems relevant. If approved the applicant shall receive credit at a rate of one-inch DSH per one-inch DSH of tree preserved with a two-inch minimum credit.
D.
Replacement Equivalents. The following equivalent sizes shall be used whenever new trees are planted pursuant to a tree replacement plan or other equivalency calculation made by the director:
1. A tree in a 15-gallon container or smaller equals one-inch DSH;
2. A tree in a 24-inch box equals two-inch DSH; or
3. A tree in a 36-inch box or larger equals three-inch DSH.
E.
Waiver Replacement Requirement. The public works director, in his or her discretion, may waive the tree replacement requirements in this section, for the following reasons:
1. The tree removal is required to mitigate overcrowded, overlapping and compromised tree canopies, and the removal of the protected tree would not significantly reduce the property’s tree canopy cover;
2. The condition of the tree with respect to disease, danger of falling, or interference with utility services, is such that the public health, safety, or welfare requires its removal. The tree shall be replaced with at least one tree unless replacement of the tree would be ineffective due to environmental conditions such as disease or contamination; or
3. The tree or its roots are causing, or threatening to cause, damage to any main structure on the property or on any adjacent property and there are no reasonable alternative means to mitigate the damage or threatened damage while minimizing the impact on the tree. Reasonable alternative means of mitigation include, but are not limited to, cutting tree roots, trimming the tree canopy, or installing a root barrier. Removing, relocating, or in any way altering any main structure on the property shall not be considered a reasonable alternative means of mitigation. The tree shall be replaced with at least one tree unless replacement of the tree would be ineffective due to environmental conditions such as disease or contamination.
F. Security.
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
1. Security may be required for any tree replacement plan that does not include payment of an in-lieu fee. The security shall guarantee the tree permittee’s compliance with conditions of approval and city provisions regarding tree protection and preservation. Security may also be required at the discretion of the public works director to ensure the completion of any additional work specified as a condition of permit approval or other approvals.
2. The security shall be in the amount of the estimated cost of the required work. The applicant shall include the cost estimate as part of the tree replacement plan. The terms and conditions of the security shall be reviewed and approved by the public works director prior to approval of the tree replacement plan.
3. Security posted on actual work required shall be maintained for the time period determined by the public works director.
G.
Tree Program Fund. A tree program fund is established for the city of Rancho Cordova for the purposes specified in this section. The monies received in lieu of replacement of illegally removed trees shall be forwarded to the finance director for deposit in the tree program fund. Except as provided in this section, under no circumstances shall the funds collected by the finance director for the tree preservation fund be directed to any other fund to be used for any purposes other than for tree planting and preservation programs and public education programs regarding trees. Tree program fund monies may be directed by the city council to nonprofit organizations for the implementation of programs consistent with the purposes of the tree program fund. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.130 Replanting security.
Adequate security may be required for any project for which a permit or other approval is required pursuant to provisions of this chapter or the zoning code to ensure that the replanting will be performed in compliance with this chapter. The purpose of such security shall be to guarantee the applicant’s compliance with conditions of approval and city ordinance provisions regarding tree protection and preservation. Security may also be required at the discretion of the public works director, or his or her designee, to ensure to completion of any additional work specified as a condition of permit approval or other approvals. The security may be required in the following forms:
A.
The security shall be in the amount of 100 percent of the estimated cost of the required work; or B.
The security may be in the form of a letter of credit, cash deposit, or a combination thereof; or C.
The security may be required whenever it appears that substantial work is required, including but not limited to:
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
1. Substantial grading is required;
2. Significant violations of the RCMC exist;
D.
Security posted on actual work required shall be maintained until work is completed; E.
Any interest gained on cash security posted shall accrue to the applicant and his or her designee. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.140 Grading beneath protected tree driplines.
Grading beneath protected trees to be retained shall be given special attention. Every reasonable effort shall be made to avoid creating conditions adverse to the protected tree’s health. The natural ground within the driplines of protected trees shall remain as undisturbed as possible. Grading within the driplines of protected trees will not be permitted unless specifically authorized by the public works director.
A.
Major roots two inches or greater in diameter encountered within the protected tree’s dripline in the course of excavation from beneath protected trees which are to be retained shall not be cut and shall be kept moist and covered with earth as soon as possible. Roots one inch to two inches in diameter which are severed shall be pruned and covered to keep moist or covered with earth as soon as possible.
B.
Support roots that are inside the dripline of the protected tree shall be protected. The permittee is required to hand-dig in the vicinity of protected trees to prevent root cutting and mangling which may be caused by heavy equipment.
C.
Cross-sections may be required where protected trees are located adjacent to roadways, new slopes or critical areas. In addition, a dimension from the face of a protected tree to some critical point or line may be required.
D.
Any condition imposed by the city council, planning commission, the planning director, or the public works director relating to grading in the vicinity of protected trees is incorporated into and made a part of the improvement standards. The consulting engineer for the project shall verify in writing on a form to be provided by the public works director that the grading has been completed as required by this section and any conditions imposed. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.150 Development control measures.
The public works director, the planning director, the planning commission or the city council may mandate any or all of the following control measures to mitigate damage to protected trees caused by land development:
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] A. No grade cuts greater than one foot shall occur within the driplines of protected trees, and no grade cuts whatsoever shall occur within five feet of their trunks; B.
No fill greater than one foot shall be placed within the driplines of protected trees and no fill whatsoever shall be placed within five feet of their trunks;
C.
No trenching whatsoever shall be allowed within the driplines of protected trees. If it is absolutely necessary to install underground utilities within the driplines of a protected tree, the trench shall be either bored or drilled;
D.
No irrigation system shall be installed within the driplines of native oak tree(s) which may be detrimental to the preservation of the native oak tree(s) unless specifically authorized by the public works director, or his or her designee;
E.
Landscaping beneath protected trees may include nonplant materials such as boulders, cobbles, wood chips, etc. Plants shall not be planted closer than six feet from the trunk of a native oak. The only plant species that shall be planted within the dripline of native oak trees are those which are listed as low and very low water use plants in the most current Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) published by the University of California (http://ucanr.edu/sites/WUCOLS) ;
F.
Paving within the driplines of protected trees should be stringently minimized. When it is absolutely necessary, porous material should be used. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.160 Tree protection plan.
Any development or building permit project that encroaches upon the existing dripline of a protected tree shall require a tree protection plan submitted with the project application. The tree protection plan shall be included on all demolition, grading, construction, and landscaping plans and project specifications. All protected trees and protective fencing or other protection features shall be shown on all project demolition, grading, construction, and landscape plans. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.170 Protected tree reports for tentative subdivision maps.
No application for a tentative subdivision map approval for a subdivision where a protected tree is located shall be considered complete unless it includes a report, in a form acceptable to the public works director, which pertains to preservation of the tree(s) and evaluates the subdivider’s proposals for the preservation, removal, replacement, or relocation of any protected tree(s) on the property. The report shall be prepared by a certified arborist and shall include all protected trees identified pursuant to this chapter. If the subdivider proposes any grading, land movement, or other activity within the dripline of a protected tree referred to in the report, or proposes to relocate or remove any protected tree, the report shall also evaluate any replacement measures proposed by the subdivider and their anticipated effectiveness in preserving the ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] protected tree. [Ord. 12-2017 § 2].
19.12.180 Protected tree reports for parcel maps.
No application for a preliminary parcel map approval for a parcel where a protected tree is located shall be considered complete unless it includes a report, in a form acceptable to the public works director, which pertains to preservation of the tree(s) and evaluates any proposals for the preservation, removal, replacement, or relocation of any protected tree(s) on the property. The report shall be prepared by a certified arborist and shall include all protected trees identified pursuant to this chapter. If the proposal includes any grading, land movement, or other activity within the dripline of a protected tree referred to in the report, or proposes to relocate or remove any protected tree, the report shall also evaluate any replacement measures proposed and their anticipated effectiveness in preserving the protected tree. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.190 Stop work order.
Whenever the public works director, the planning director, the planning commission or the city council determines that any permit, or variance or any action being taken thereunder, or any action under it without a permit, is in conflict with this chapter or with the standards established by the city or any department thereof, or ordinance, regulation, or policy, the public works director shall issue a stop work order which shall prohibit any action thereunder. Such stop work order shall set forth the alleged violations and may list remedies to be taken to correct the violations. The person receiving such a stop work order shall report in writing to the officer, person or body issuing the order within 48 hours regarding the next steps to be taken to correct the violations. Such stop work order may be extended to provide an opportunity for a hearing being extended to the affected party. During the period of such extension, the public works director shall review the matter as herein provided. A stop work order issued pursuant to this section may be withdrawn by the public works director upon a finding that the circumstances giving rise to the order no longer exist. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.200 Fees.
Fees for the issuance of a protected tree permit shall be set by city council resolution, as amended from time to time. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.210 Exemption of city from Solar Shade Control Act.
The city of Rancho Cordova shall be exempt from the provisions of the Solar Shade Control Act pursuant to Section 25985(a) of the California Public Resource Code, or as amended. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.220 Tree stumps prohibited.
Any tree stump that is visible from the public right-of-way is hereby declared a public nuisance and maintenance of a tree stump is prohibited. Any tree stump shall be ground down to a depth of four inches below grade or the entire tree stump shall be removed one year from the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter and thereafter. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM]
19.12.230 Public nuisances.
Any violation of the provisions of this chapter is unlawful and a public nuisance, and the fully constituted authorities of the city shall immediately commence an action proceeding for the abatement and enjoinment thereof and shall take other steps in the manner provided by law. The city may pursue any and all legal and equitable remedies related to the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter, including criminal, civil, and administrative remedies and penalties pursuant to RCMC 1.01.190 . [Ord. 12-2017 § 2].
19.12.240
Violations.
A.
Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of this code is committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and he or she shall be punished accordingly. A violation of this chapter is a misdemeanor and is punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for a period up to six months or by a fine of up to $1,000 or both.
B.
In addition to a fine, any violation of this chapter shall also require replacement measures pursuant to RCMC 19.12.120 to offset the violation(s), which shall be determined by the public works director. [Ord. 12- 2017 §
2].
19.12.250 Enforcement.
The department of public works, or its designee, is charged with the responsibility of enforcing the provisions of this chapter. The remedies provided for herein shall be cumulative and not exclusive. The public works director, or his or her designee, may upon the presentation of his credentials go upon any premises at any reasonable time for the investigation and inspection of any tree which is suspected to be in violation of this chapter, after having given the owner or occupant thereof at least five days’ prior notice of the date of inspection or sooner if the owner or occupant consents to said inspection. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.260 Appeals and abatement procedures.
The following procedures shall be followed when abating or correcting a condition relative to a public nuisance tree or a violation of this chapter:
A.
The owner or occupant of property on which the tree is located shall be notified in writing by certified mail that the tree and tree stump shall be removed, pruned, treated or otherwise abated or that a violation of this chapter occurred and the corrective action necessary;
B.
The owner or occupant of property on which the tree is or was located shall have the right to appeal the determination of the public works director;
C.
The owner or occupant of such premises shall have 15 days from the time of the mailing of the aforesaid notice to either comply with the terms of the notice of abatement or corrective action or to file an appeal with the city concerning the contemplated action of the public works director. The city manager, or his or her ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Chapter 19.12 PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVATE TREES https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova19/RanchoCordova1912.html[6/29/2022 9:29:31 AM] designee, shall appoint a hearing officer. The appeal hearing shall be conducted pursuant to RCMC
16.18.205(F)(8), or as may be amended;
D.
If the owner or occupant of such premises or his agent refuses or neglects to comply with the notice or to appeal the order of the public works director within the time specified, the public works director shall cause the tree to be treated, pruned, removed or otherwise abated or the public works director shall take the corrective action necessary;
E.
The public works director shall keep an account of the cost of abatement and shall recover delinquent fees, penalties, charges and costs by lien or special assessment pursuant to RCMC 1.01.200. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
19.12.270 Interference with authorized personnel.
It is unlawful for any person to prevent, delay or interfere with any work being done under the provisions of this chapter whether the work is done by an employee of the city or a person or firm performing work for the city pursuant to contract, hire or assignment. [Ord. 12-2017 §
2].
The Rancho Cordova Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 04-2022, passed February 22, 2022.
Disclaimer: The city clerk’s office has the official version of the Rancho Cordova Municipal Code. Users should contact the city clerk’s office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.
City Website: https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/
City Telephone: (916) 851-8720
Code Publishing Company
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
24 Attachment 6: Relative Tolerance of Selected Species to Development Impacts
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
25 This table is taken from the ISA Best Management Practices, “Managing Trees During Construction,” second edition 2016. This is a companion publication to the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) A300 Part 5 publication. Additional data was taken from a research laboratory technical report by Kim D. Coder at the Univer sity of Georgia, Bartlett Tree Experts, titled “Relative Tolerance of Tree Species to Construction Damage.”
Table 3. Relative Tolerance of Selected Species to Development Impacts Common Name Scientific Name Tolerance1
Canary Island palm Phoenix canariensis No data
Coast live oak Quercus agrifolia G
Blue oak Quercus douglasii No data
Valley oak Quercus lobata M
Interior live- oak Quercus wislizeni No data; other live oak species characterized as G
Mexican fan palm Washingtonia robusta No data
1P=Poor, M=Moderate, G=Good
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
APPENDIX C
Noise Model Inputs and Outputs
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Model Input Sheet
Project Name : Mineshaft Sign Board
Project Number : 60702886
Modeling Condition : Existing
Ground Type : Hard K Factor : NA
Metric (Leq, Ldn, CNEL) : Leq Traffic Desc. (Peak or ADT) : Peak Segment Roadway From To Traffic Vol. % Autos %MT % HT Day % Eve % Night % 1 US 50 Sunrise Boulevard Nimbus Road 12100 60 150 97 2 1 85 0 15 Traffic Noise Prediction Model, (FHWA RD-77-108)
Segment Speed
(Mph)
Distance
to CL
Offset
(dB)
ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Predicted Noise Levels
Project Name : Mineshaft Sign Board
Project Number : 60702886
Modeling Condition : Existing
Metric (Leq, Ldn, CNEL) : Leq
Segment Roadway From To Auto MT HT Total 70 dB 65 dB 60 dB 55 dB 50 dB 1 US 50 Sunrise Boulevard Nimbus Road 77.0 66.7 67.4 77.8 897 2835 8966 28353 89661 0 Traffic Noise Prediction Model, (FHWA RD-77-108)
Segment Noise Levels, dB Leq Distance to Traffic Noise Contours, Feet ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Sample Equipment Noise Phas (2)
Location
Distance to Nearest
Receiver in feet Assumptions:
Usage
Factor1
Threshold* 489 Drill Rig Truck 0.2
50 Backhoe 0.4
Receptor 400 Flat Bed Truck 0.4
Concrete Mixer Truck 0.4
Pickup Truck 0.4
0.5 0.5
Ground Type Hard
Ground Factor 0.00
Predicted Noise Level 2
Drill Rig Truck 72.0
Backhoe 74.0
Flat Bed Truck 70.0
Concrete Mixer Truck 75.0
Pickup Truck 71.0
Sources:
1 Obtained from the FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model, January 2006. 2 Based on the following from the Federal Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
Leq(equip) = E.L.+10*log (U.F.) - 20*log (D/50) - 10*G*log (D/50) Where: E.L. = Emission Level;
U.F.= Usage Factor;
G = Constant that accounts for topography and ground effects; and D = Distance from source to receiver.
*Project specific threshold
Project-Generated Construction Source Noise Prediction Model Combined Predicted
Noise Level (Leq dBA)
Reference Emission Noise
Levels (Lmax) at 50 feet1
60 79
80 78
62 74
79 75
Leq dBA at 50 feet2
Combined Predicted Noise Level (Leq dBA at 50 feet)
79.8 ITEM 19.1.
ATTACHMENT 1
Responses to Public Comments
Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration Individuals and Neighborhood Organizations
Comment 1 - Eureka Village at Gold River Homeowners Association RE: Electronic Billboards Proposal on Highway 50 near Mine Shaft and Gold River Dear Ms. Granadosin-Jones:
We are writing on behalf of the Eureka Village at Gold River Homeowners Association to express our concerns regarding the proposed large electronic billboards along Highway 50 near Mine Shaft and Gold River.
The introduction of two enormous, lighted, flickering signs with changing messages will adversely impact residents in Gold River.
We respectfully request reconsideration of the sign placement, height, and the impact that the light will have on residences in our community. Thank you in advance for taking our request into consideration.
Sincerely, Board of Directors Eureka Village at Gold River Homeowners Association Response 1
The environmental effects of the proposed digital signs are evaluated throughout the Mine Shaft Digital Billboards Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), which was released for public review in September 2023. The visual effects of the project related to the height, locations, and light output of the proposed billboards, on the scenic quality of the area and on ambient light conditions are evaluated in Section 3.1, Aesthetics. The analysis concluded that the impacts would be less than significant based on the methods and thresholds described therein. As the project site is located in an urbanized area, the impact of the project on scenic quality was evaluated based on whether the proposed digital signs would conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality. In particular, the project is subject to the requirements of Section 23.743.150 (Digital Freeway Signs Overlay) of the City of Rancho Cordova Municipal Code is intended to reduce visual impacts of freeway signage through design parameters, such as orientation of billboards toward opposing directions of traffic, signage height and area limitations, minimum distance between signs, avoidance of stylistic or architectural detailing that would further call attention to the sign, a prohibition against moving or animated messaging, and maximum brightness level of 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light as measured using a foot-candle meter at a distance of 250 feet from the sign face.
As detailed in the IS/MND, the project would introduce lighting designed to automatically adjust the brightness of the sign as ambient light conditions change throughout the day so that the brightness level would remain at 0.3 foot-candles (fc) above ambient light, as measured using a foot- candle meter at a distance of 250 feet from the sign face. One foot-candle is approximately equal to the amount of light put out by one candle at a distance of one foot. The project is required to comply with Section 23.743.150 (Digital Freeway Signs Overlay) of the City of Rancho Cordova Municipal Code, which is designed to reduce adverse effects through limitations on the number of display areas, the maximum ITEM 19.2.
ATTACHMENT 2
height, the maximum area, the minimum distance between digital signs, stylistic designs or architectural detailing that would draw additional attention, animation, and characteristics that would create a visibility hazard to traffic.
Finally, it should also be noted that the existing visual quality of the project site is low because of the surrounding urbanized environment and because it does not contain any unique visual features or landscape characteristics that influence visual quality. In addition, views of the project site from the north side of US 50 tend to be screened by ornamental trees, landscaping, and a berm elevated sound wall that backs up along US 50.
Comments for or against approval of the proposed project will be considered by the City Council when a hearing is conducted early in 2024. All comments are reprinted in this document for decision maker consideration.
Comment 2 - Alden
As a long time resident of Gold River I strongly encourage you not to install the two 70 foot billboards along Highway 50. The brightness of the billboards will have a significant impact on the quality of nighttime in the neighborhood.
In addition, these types of billboards are an eyesore and a driver distraction. Let's not turn Rancho Cordova and Gold River into Times Square or Tokyo Japan with intrusive signs and lighting. Rancho Cordova doesn't need o be like every other community with a Highway going through it with unending signage. Let's be different!!
Respectfully submitted,
Rich Alden
Response 2
See Response 1. In Section 3.17, the IS/MND evaluated whether the project would substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses and concluded there would be no impact. Regarding that the effects of lighted message signs on driving distraction are minimized, it is noted in Section 3.1, Aesthetics, that outdoor advertising displays require a permit from Caltrans if they are within 660 feet from the edge of the right- of-way and viewed primarily by persons traveling on the main-traveled way of the freeway (Caltrans 1998). The northern edge of the project site is approximately 150 feet from the edge of right-of-way of US 50.
Comment 3 - Anderson
To Whom it may Concern,
As long time residents of Gold River, we are very concerned about the impact that the gigantic Digital Billboards you are planning to place directly across Highway 50 from our very quiet and private neighborhoods, will make. There certainly must be an alternate location for them that will not affect us so negatively, and we urge you to rethink your proposed plans. We also urge you to downsize them.
ITEM 19.2.
ATTACHMENT 2