Draft CAP Addendum to the General Plan EIR — City Council and Authorities Concurrent, June 7, 2022

Initial Study/Addendum
Santa Clara Climate Action Plan 2022 Update
March 2022
In Consultation with
Prepared by

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update i Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1.0 Introduction and Purpose ................................................................................................ 1 Purpose of the Addendum ...................................................................................................... 1 Notice of Determination ......................................................................................................... 2 Section 2.0 Project Information ......................................................................................................... 3 Project Title ............................................................................................................................ 3 Lead Agency Contact ............................................................................................................. 3 Section 3.0 Project Description .......................................................................................................... 4 Description of the Project Analyzed in the 2010 FEIR .......................................................... 4 Description of the Proposed Project ....................................................................................... 5 Section 4.0 Environmental Setting, Checklist, and Impact Discussion ........................................... 10 Aesthetics .............................................................................................................................. 11 Agriculture and Forestry Resources ..................................................................................... 13 Air Quality ............................................................................................................................ 15 Biological Resources ............................................................................................................ 18 Cultural Resources ................................................................................................................ 20 Energy ................................................................................................................................... 22 Geology and Soils ................................................................................................................. 25 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ................................................................................................... 27 Hazards and Hazardous Materials ........................................................................................ 33 Hydrology and Water Quality .............................................................................................. 35 Land Use and Planning ......................................................................................................... 37 Mineral Resources ................................................................................................................ 38 Noise ..................................................................................................................................... 39 Population and Housing ........................................................................................................ 41 Public Services...................................................................................................................... 43 Recreation ............................................................................................................................. 45 Transportation ....................................................................................................................... 47 Tribal Cultural Resources ..................................................................................................... 50 Utilities and Service Systems ............................................................................................... 52 Wildfire ................................................................................................................................. 54 Section 5.0 Conclusion .................................................................................................................... 56 Section 6.0 References ..................................................................................................................... 57 Section 7.0 Lead Agency and Consultants ....................................................................................... 58

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Lead Agency ......................................................................................................................... 58 Consultants ........................................................................................................................... 58 Section 8.0 Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................ 59

Figures
Figure 3.2-1: Citywide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Forecast ................................................................ 5 Figure 4.8-1: Emissions by Sector ....................................................................................................... 30

Tables
Table 3.1-1: Current 2013 CAP Target Metrics for 2020 ...................................................................... 4 Table 4.3-1: Ambient Air Quality Standards Violations ..................................................................... 15 Table 4.8-1: 2021 CAP Actions and Reduction Estimates .................................................................. 31 Table 4.8-2: Achievement of CAP Targets .......................................................................................... 32

Appendices
Appendix A:2022 Climate Action Plan Update

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 1 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

PURPOSE OF THE ADDENDUM
The City of Santa Clara, as the Lead Agency, has prepared this Addendum to the 2010-2035 General Plan Integrated Final Environmental Impact Report (General Plan FEIR) for the proposed 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP) that addresses climate change, and is intended to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and build resiliency. The purpose of the Addendum is to analyze potential environmental impacts that would result from changes to the project description since certification and adoption of the FEIR by the City of Santa Clara in November 2010.

The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Sections 15162 and 15164, provide that an addendum to a previously certified EIR can be prepared for a project if the criteria and conditions summarized below are satisfied:
• No Substantial Project Changes: There are no substantial changes proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects.
• No Substantial Changes in Circumstances: Substantial changes have not occurred with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects. • No Substantial New Information: There is no new information of substantial importance which was not known or could not have been known at the time of the previous EIR that shows any of the following:
a) The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR;
b) Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in the previous EIR;
c) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would, in fact, be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternatives; or
d) Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative

The proposed project as revised, and as described in this Addendum, does not create any of the conditions described in Section 15162 of the CEQA Guidelines that call for the preparation of a subsequent EIR. No new significant impacts would occur, and no previously examined significant effects would be substantially more severe than shown in the EIR. Thus, an addendum to the adopted EIR is the appropriate environmental documentation to analyze the potential environmental impacts that would result from the refinement to the project description.

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1.1.1 2010-2035 General Plan
In October 2010, the City of Santa Clara approved the 2010-2035 General Plan and certified the Plan FEIR (Resolution No. 10-7797) which is a long-range program for future growth of the City. The General Plan FEIR is a broad range analysis of the planned growth and did not analyze specific development projects. The intent was for the General Plan FEIR to provide program-level documentation from which subsequent development consistent with the General Plan could tier. The General Plan FEIR also identified mitigation measures and adopted a statement of overriding considerations for significant unavoidable impacts to public utilities, biological resources, air quality, transportation and traffic, noise, and climate change, as well as cumulative land use, population and housing, and transportation and traffic impacts resulting from build out of the General Plan.

An Initial Study and Negative Declaration was prepared in December 2013, which updated the climate change discussion from the General Plan FEIR and determined that no new impacts would occur related to implementation of the 2013 CAP. For this reason, and those described above, the General Plan FEIR continues to be an accurate evaluation of program-level impacts for the proposed 2022 CAP.

This Addendum has been prepared as part of the supplemental environmental review process needed to evaluate the proposed project in terms of the overall development and policies envisioned in the General Plan FEIR.

NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
If the project is approved, the City will file a Notice of Determination (NOD), which will be available for public inspection and posted within 24 hours of receipt at the County Clerk’s Office for 30 days. The filing of the NOD starts a 30-day statute of limitations on court challenges to the approval under CEQA (CEQA Guidelines Section 15075(g)).

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SECTION 2.0 PROJECT INFORMATION

PROJECT TITLE
The Santa Clara Climate Action Plan 2022 Update

LEAD AGENCY CONTACT
Nimisha Agrawal, Associate Planner
City of Santa Clara
Community Development Department, Planning Division
1500 Warburton Avenue
Santa Clara, CA 95050
(408) 615-2450

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SECTION 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ANALYZED IN THE 2010 FEIR
The City of Santa Clara adopted the 2010-2035 General Plan on November 16, 2010. In December 2013, the City Council adopted the City’s current CAP as Appendix 8.13 to the General Plan and approved an Initial Study and Negative Declaration. The CAP detailed how the City would comply with state mandated GHG emission reductions targets by 2020 under Assembly Bill (AB) 32.

3.1.1 Climate Action Plan
The 2013 CAP established a GHG reduction goal of 15 percent below 2008 levels by 2020 and included measures designed to achieve this reduction.
1 The following represents a summary of the
measures proposed in the 2013 CAP.

• Coal Free & Large Renewables. A key component of the 2013 CAP was achieving 33 percent Renewables Portfolio Standards and removing GHG-intensive sources of electricity, such as coal, from the energy portfolio of Silicon Valley Power (SVP). • Energy Efficiency Programs. SVP has established annual energy efficiency targets for 2013 – 2021 and these targets are updated every three years. The 2013 CAP demonstrates emissions reduction benefits of SVP achieving the established energy efficiency targets and offers examples of effective programs that can achieve the targets. • Other Measures. Other measures identified in the 2013 CAP address emissions from the transportation, solid waste, water, and off-road equipment sectors.

According to the 2013 CAP, implementation of these measures would reduce emissions by 465,610 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e), or 23 percent below 2008 baseline levels,2 resulting in citywide emissions of 1,420,200 MTCO2e in 2020. As shown in Table 3.1-1, the City’s latest GHG inventory (2016) emissions estimates were 1,790,833 MTCO2e in 2016. Based on an adjusted business-as-usual projection of 2016 emissions, 2020 emissions were estimated to be 1,703,528 MTCO2e.

Table 3.1-1: Current 2013 CAP Target Metrics for 2020
2013 CAP Reduction Target (Percent) 15 Percent below 2008 levels 2013 CAP Mass Emissions Target 1,576,155 MTCO2e
Latest GHG Inventory (2016) 1,790,833 MTCO2e
Projected Emissions (2020) 3 1,703,528 MTCO2e
Note: Mass Emission Target refers to the actual emissions needed to achieve 15 percent below 2008 levels.

1 A GHG emission reduction of 15 percent below 2008 levels was assumed to be equivalent to 1990 emissions levels. Source: ICLEI. Quick Start Guide to Setting GHG Reduction Targets. 2010. 2 The City’s 2008 GHG inventory showed emissions to be 2,037,800 MTCO2e in that year. Source: City of Santa Clara. Climate Action Plan. 20013.
3 Considers emission reductions from state-level policy; does not include potential GHG emission reductions from local climate action.

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As shown in Table 3.1-1 above, The City did not achieve its goal of 23 percent reduction below 2008 baseline levels in 2020.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

3.2.1 Progress Toward 2030 Goal
A GHG inventory was conducted using 2016 data to establish a benchmark year from which to further develop emissions’ forecasts and targets through 2030. Based on current guidance from the Air Resources Board and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, the City has set a target of 950,040 MTCO2e by 2030. This 2030 target is a state-mandated goal under SB 32 which requires a 40 percent reduction from the 1990 levels to ensure that the state meets its long-term goal of reductions equal to 80 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2050.

An updated emissions analysis estimates that citywide mass emissions were 1,583,400 MTCO2e in 1990. Figure 3.2-1 shows Santa Clara’s two most recent GHG inventories (2008 and 2016) and projected GHG emissions through 2050, without implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP.

Figure 3.2-1: Citywide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Forecast

Source: Cascadia Consulting, 2022 CAP

As shown in Figure 3.2-1, under an adjusted business-as-usual scenario, citywide emissions in 2030 would be 1,497,040 MTCO2e. Thus, in order to achieve a 40 percent reduction from 1990 emission levels, the City would be required to decrease emissions by 550,553 MTCO2e.4 Based on the

4 2030 business as usual emissions 1,497,040 minus 2030 target emissions 945,693 = 551,347 required emissions reduction.
0 2
4 6
8 10
12 14
16 18
20 2008 2016 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050
100,000 MTCO2E
Transportation
Nonresidential Electricity
Nonresidential Natural Gas
Residential Electricity
Residential Natural Gas
Landfilled Waste
Wastewater Treatment

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forecasted GHG emissions levels above, the City has developed the following measures to achieve the 2030 GHG emissions target.

3.2.2 Proposed 2022 Climate Action Plan
The 2022 CAP (proposed project) establishes GHG reduction targets and proposed measures designed to reduce the City’s GHG emissions levels by 40 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2030 in accordance with SB 32 and sets aspirational goals for emissions reductions in 2035 and 2045. Several GHG reduction measures included in the proposed project are derived from adopted policy documents that are being implemented citywide. Although the 2022 CAP addresses GHG emissions from new construction, it would also require emissions reductions from the current built environment. The following list provides a summary of the GHG reduction measures proposed in the 2022 CAP.

B1. Shift to electric fuels in new and existing buildings to achieve net-zero carbon buildings.

Decarbonizing buildings by transitioning away from natural gas to electricity.

Implementation Actions
• Electrification incentives and financing
• Electrification outreach for commercial and residential energy upgrades • Electric panel upgrades upon sale/turnover
• Municipal Electrification Action Plan
• Reach Codes5 for new construction
• Burnout Ordinance6
• Carbon neutral data centers

B2. Improve energy efficiency. Reduce energy consumption by using our energy more efficiently through retrofits to our homes and buildings.

Implementation measures
• Municipal energy retrofits
• Free home-energy upgrades for qualifying residents
• Energy-efficient and electric-ready building codes
• Distributed energy resource pilot programs such as energy storage, vehicle-to-grid charging stations, web-enabled devices and microgrids within City facilities • Energy efficiency incentives

B3. Maximize renewable energy generation and storage capacity. Shift to clean, renewable energy sources.

5 Reach Codes are local building energy codes that “reach” beyond the state minimum requirements for energy use in building design and construction. Source: City of Santa Clara. “City News, Building Electrification and Electric Vehicle Reach Codes.” December 23, 20219. https://www.santaclaraca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/39775/ 6 Burnout ordinances require that homeowners replace gas furnaces with electric heat pumps when the gas furnace burns out or stops working.

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Implementation Actions
• SVP Integrated Resource Plan for renewable electricity • City-owned renewable energy projects
• Renewable installations at municipal facilities
• Renewable energy generation and storage on private property • Local grid resilience and energy storage improvements • Alternative fuel backup generators
• Renewable electricity for new data centers

T1: Transition vehicles to electric alternatives by improving our electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Implementation Actions
• Community EV Blueprint implementation7
• EV charging for new multi-family developments
• EV charging at single-family and two-family dwellings, townhomes, hotels/motels, offices, & other non-residential developments
• City Fleet Electrification Plan implementation
• Heavy duty electric trucks8
• Municipal charging infrastructure

T2: Expand clean mobility options and use of non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes.

Reduce the number of daily miles traveled by single occupancy vehicles by making Santa Clara more bike and pedestrian friendly, improving public transit, and incentivizing low-carbon transportation.

Implementation Actions
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan implementation
• Curb management improvements9
• Bike and shared mobility improvements
• Transit gap and improvement study

7 The EV Blueprint is a program to accelerate transportation electrification and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation in the City of Santa Clara. Source: California Energy Commission. Clean Transportation Program Final Project Report EV Ready Communities Challenge, Phase I EV Blueprint. June 2019. https://www.siliconvalleypower.com/home/showpublisheddocument/64525/636972441204370000 8 This implementation action involves partnering with businesses and industries to accelerate the transition of heavy- duty trucks to electric through incentives or local tax credits. Source: City of Santa Clara. 2022 Climate Action Plan. 9 Incentivize projects that optimize curbside areas for low-carbon modes and reduce VMT, such as designated rideshare parking and loading zones, scooter and bike share docs, bike parking, electric vehicle and bike charging stations, and autonomous vehicle loading zones. Source: City of Santa Clara. 2022 Climate Action Plan.

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T3: Advance sustainable land uses. Enact more sustainable city planning policies and programs that encourage higher density development near transit centers, walkable and bikeable communities, and support telecommuting.

Implementation Actions
• Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan requirements • Sustainable development in underutilized non-residential areas • Transit-oriented development
• Telework
• Transportation Analysis Policy Compliance

M1: Increase waste diversion programs.

Implementation Actions
• Compliance with state solid waste ordinance
• Waste diversion pricing signals

M2: Reduce landfilled food waste.

Implementation Actions
• Technical assistance to top food generators
• Food recovery and donation
• Food recovery and organization partnerships

M3: Enhance sustainable production and consumption.

Implementation Actions
• Reuse salvageable building materials
• City property consumption and waste diversion
• Municipal Sustainable Procurement Policy
• Carbon-smart building materials
• Low-carbon schools

N1: Increase tree canopy cover by planting more trees.

Implementation Actions
• Right-of-way tree planting
• Support private property trees
• Urban forest partnerships
• Tree maintenance, replacement and plantings

N2: Enhance ecosystem resilience.

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Implementation Actions
• Carbon farming on open space land10
• Partnerships for compost management
• Sustainable planting guide
• Sustainable park management

N3: Improve water supply and conservation.

Implementation Actions
• Water conservation rebates
• Fixture replacements
• Water-efficient landscape requirements
• Community water portfolio diversification
• Recycled water connection requirements

C1: Improve community resilience.

Implementation Actions
• Community resilience network
• Support for people experiencing homelessness
• Community climate action grant
• Incentives for adaptation upgrades

Strategy C2- Prepare for climate change.

Implementation Actions
• Climate-resilient land use & development
• On-site and natural stormwater systems
• High-albedo parking lots
• Climate Resilience Capital Improvements Program (CIP) • Planned retreat strategies

10 Carbon farming refers to the act of using farming practices that are known to improve the rate at which carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere and converted to plant material and/or soil organic matter. Source:

California Association of Resource Conservation Districts. “Carbon Farming.” September 14, 2021. https://carcd.org/our-work/project/carbon-farming/

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SECTION 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING, CHECKLIST, AND

IMPACT DISCUSSION
This section presents the discussion of impacts related to the following environmental subjects in their respective subsections:

4.1 Aesthetics

4.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources

4.3 Air Quality

4.4 Biological Resources

4.5 Cultural Resources

4.6 Energy

4.7 Geology and Soils

4.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions

4.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials

4.10 Hydrology and Water Quality

4.11 Land Use and Planning

4.12 Mineral Resources

4.13 Noise

4.14 Population and Housing

4.15 Public Services

4.16 Recreation

4.17 Transportation

4.18 Tribal Cultural Resources

4.19 Utilities and Service Systems

4.20 Wildfire

4.21 Mandatory Findings of Significance
The discussion for each environmental subject includes the following subsections:

• Environmental Setting – This subsection 1) provides a brief overview of relevant plans, policies, and regulations that compose the regulatory framework for the project and 2) describes the existing, physical environmental conditions at the project site and in the surrounding area, as relevant.
• Impact Discussion – This subsection 1) includes the recommended checklist questions from Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines to assess impacts and 2) discusses the project’s impact on the environmental subject as related to the checklist questions, and compares the impact to the 2010 EIR, as updated by the 2013 Negative Declaration.

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AESTHETICS

4.1.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Although adopted prior to the 2013 CAP, Senate Bill (SB) 743 came into effect after adoption of the 2013 CAP and therefore, represents a change in the regulatory framework for aesthetics conditions since adoption of the 2013 CAP. SB 743 was adopted in September 2013 and requires lead agencies to use alternatives to level of service (LOS) for evaluating transportation impacts, specifically vehicle miles traveled (VMT). SB 743 also included changes to CEQA that apply to transit-oriented developments, as related to aesthetics and parking impacts. Under SB 743, a project’s aesthetics impacts will no longer be considered significant impact on the environment if:

• The project is a residential, mixed-use residential, or employment center project, and • The project is located on an infill site within a transit priority area

SB 743 also clarifies that local governments retain their ability to regulate a project’s aesthetics impacts outside of the CEQA process.

Existing Conditions
Numerous development projects have been approved and constructed since adoption of the 2013 CAP which has visually changed the built environment in Santa Clara. These development projects were required to undergo environmental review and comply with City policies and design standards.

4.1.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Except as provided in Public Resources Code
Section 21099, would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
scenic vista?

b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within
a state scenic highway?

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New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Except as provided in Public Resources Code
Section 21099, would the project:
c) In non-urbanized areas, substantially
degrade the existing visual character or
quality of public views of the site and its
surroundings?11 If the project is in an
urbanized area, would the project conflict
with applicable zoning and other
regulations governing scenic quality?

d) Create a new source of substantial light or
glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area?

Response
According to the General Plan FEIR, there are no scenic vistas within the City. Long-range views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range are available from roadways and public trails throughout Santa Clara. However, these views from public viewpoints are partially or completely obscured by existing development or vegetation and implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not have a substantial adverse effect on scenic resources. There are no state-designated scenic highways in the City of Santa Clara. Therefore, the proposed 2022 CAP actions would not substantially damage scenic resources within a state-designated scenic highway.

The City of Santa Clara is located within an urban environment. Implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would, therefore, occur within urban environments and would be overseen as part of the City’s development review process. The proposed 2022 CAP actions would not directly create new sources of light and glare. Indirectly, new development and redevelopment associated with implementation of the 2022 CAP would create new sources of light and glare such as from exterior building lighting as well as reflective solar panels. Future development and redevelopment projects would go through the City’s Architectural Review process prior to issuance of building permits and would be reviewed for consistency with the City’s Design Guidelines, all applicable zoning regulations, and other regulations concerning scenic quality.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe aesthetics impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR or the 2013 CAP Addendum. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

11 Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points.

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AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES

4.2.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for agricultural and forestry resources conditions since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
There have been no substantial changes to the environmental conditions for agricultural and forestry resources since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

4.2.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland,
or Farmland of Statewide Importance
(Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared
pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the California
Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?

b) Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
contract?

c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 12220(g)),
timberland (as defined by Public Resources
Code Section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by
Government Code Section 51104(g))?

d) Result in a loss of forest land or conversion
of forest land to non-forest use?

e) Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of
Farmland to non-agricultural use or
conversion of forest land to non-forest use?

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Response
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the city and would not convert farmland, forest land, or Prime Farmland within the city limits of Santa Clara.

There is no land within the City of Santa Clara that meets the State of California definition of forest land or that is zoned for forestry uses.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe agricultural or forestry resources impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR or 2013 CAP Addendum. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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AIR QUALITY

4.3.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Clean Air Plan (2017)
In 2017, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), the agency primarily responsible for assuring that the federal and state ambient air quality standards are maintained in the San Francisco Bay Area, issued an update to the air quality plan for the Bay Area Air basin. The Bay Area 2017 Clean Air Plan (2017 CAP) focuses on two related BAAQMD goals: protecting public health and protecting the climate. To protect public health, the 2017 CAP describes how BAAQMD will continue its progress toward attaining state and federal air quality standards and eliminating health risk disparities from exposure to air pollution among Bay Area communities. To protect the climate, the 2017 CAP includes control measures designed to reduce emissions of methane and other super-GHGs that are potent climate pollutants in the near-term, and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion.12

Existing Conditions
BAAQMD continues to monitor trends in air pollution through measurements at regional air monitoring stations. Ozone and particulate matter remain criteria pollutants of concern along with community risks associated with toxic air contaminants (TACs). Table 4.3-1 shows pollutant monitoring results for the years 2017 to 2019 (the most recent data available) at the San José monitoring station (the nearest monitoring station to Santa Clara).

Table 4.3-1: Ambient Air Quality Standards Violations
Pollutant Standard
Days Exceeding Standard
2017 2018 2019
SAN JOSÉ STATION
Ozone State 1-hour 4 0 2
Federal 8-hour 4 0 2
Carbon
Monoxide
Federal 8-hour 0 0 0
Nitrogen Dioxide State 1-hour 0 0 0
PM10 Federal 24-hour 0 0 0
State 24-hour 6 0 4
PM2.5 Federal 24-hour 6 15
Source: BAAQMD. Air Pollution Summaries (2017 – 2019). Available at: https://www.baaqmd.gov/about-air- quality/air-quality-summaries

12 BAAQMD. Final 2017 Clean Air Plan. April 19, 2017. https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air-quality- plans/current-plans

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4.3.2 Impact Discussion

b) Result in a cumulatively considerable
net increase of any criteria pollutant
for which the project region is non-
attainment under an applicable federal
or state ambient air quality standard?

c) Expose sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant concentrations?

d) Result in other emissions (such as
those leading to odors) adversely
affecting a substantial number of
people?

Response
Building & Energy Actions
Air quality impacts associated with renovation of existing buildings and construction of new buildings were previously analyzed in the General Plan EIR and determined to be less than significant with implementation of Mitigation Measure 4.10-1, which calls for the City to prepare a Community Risk Reduction Plan for TAC concentrations resulting from new development within the City, and establish appropriate buffer distances for new development with residential uses or other sensitive receptors to protect them from existing sources of TACs. For these reasons, the implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP Building and Energy Strategies would not result in new or substantially more severe air quality impacts than those previously identified in the General Plan FEIR.

Transportation & Land Use Actions
Strategies such as the transition to electric vehicles, expanding clean mobility options, and advancing sustainable land uses would reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and by extension, reduce fossil fuel consumption for transportation, thereby reducing air quality emissions from operation of fossil fuel powered vehicles, as well as reducing emissions associated with production and distribution of fossil fuels.

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Materials & Consumption Actions
Strategies and measures related to increasing waste diversion, reducing landfilled food waste, and enhancing sustainable production and consumption of materials would result in reduced criteria pollutant emissions from waste processing.

Natural Systems & Water Resources Actions
Implementation of Strategy N1 would improve air quality from increased oxygen generated by trees and reduce energy consumption from building cooling, thereby reducing criteria pollutant and TAC emissions associated with energy generation. Implementation of Strategies N2 and N3 to enhance ecosystem resilience, and improve water supply and conservation, respectively, would reduce water use and result in a proportional reduction in criteria pollutant and TAC emissions from energy used to operate the water distribution systems

Climate Adaptation & Resilience Actions
Implementation of Strategies C1 and C2 would not result in new or substantially more severe air quality impacts than those previously identified in the General Plan FEIR.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe air quality impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

4.4.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantive changes to the regulatory framework for biological resources since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
Numerous development projects have been approved and constructed since adoption of the 2013 CAP which have resulted in the loss of trees. All development projects are subject to the City’s 2:1 tree replacement requirements for new construction. Additionally, these development projects were required to undergo environmental review and comply with City policies and design standards.

4.4.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect,
either directly or through habitat
modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or
special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations,
or by the California Department of
Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) or United
States Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS)?

b) Have a substantial adverse effect on
any riparian habitat or other sensitive
natural community identified in local
or regional plans, policies, regulations,
or by the CDFW or USFWS?

c) Have a substantial adverse effect on
state or federally protected wetlands
(including, but not limited to, marsh,
vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through
direct removal, filling, hydrological
interruption, or other means?

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New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
d) Interfere substantially with the
movement of any native resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species or
with established native resident or
migratory wildlife corridors, or impede
the use of native wildlife nursery sites?

e) Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological
resources, such as a tree preservation
policy or ordinance?

f) Conflict with the provisions of an
adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,
Natural Community Conservation
Plan, or other approved local, regional,
or state habitat conservation plan?

Responses
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would not change the areas in which new development or redevelopment would occur or allow development closer to sensitive habitats or habitats occupied by special status plants or wildlife species. It would not change policies or City Code requirements designed to protect riparian habitats or maintain the health of the City’s urban forest.

As discussed in Section 4.9 Biological Resources, of the General Plan FEIR, the City of Santa Clara is located adjacent to but not located within the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan area. For these reasons, implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not conflict with provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe biological resources impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR or 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 20 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

CULTURAL RESOURCES

4.5.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantive changes to the regulatory framework for cultural resources since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, no historic resources have been demolished within Santa Clara.

4.5.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5?

b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5?

c) Disturb any human remains, including
those interred outside of dedicated
cemeteries?

Response
Building, Energy, Transportation, & Land Use Actions
Cultural resources impacts associated with development and redevelopment of existing buildings were previously analyzed in the General Plan FEIR and determined to be less than significant with implementation of standard conditions of approval and compliance with existing state and local regulations at a programmatic level. The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the city and would not result in new impacts to cultural resources not previously considered in the General Plan FEIR. Project specific cultural resources impacts are examined through project level CEQA review. Retrofits of existing development would be subject to the City’s permitting requirements and processes and reviewed for consistency with the City’s Historic Preservation Ordinance and Landmarks Alteration Permit requirements which would ensure retrofits of existing development would not result in significant impacts to historic resources or adjacent development.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 21 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

Other Actions
Implementation of the other actions which involve preparing the City for climate change, improving community resilience, improving water supply and conservation, enhancing ecosystem resilience, increasing the tree canopy, enhancing sustainable production and consumption, reducing landfilled food waste, and increasing waste diversion actions would not involve alteration and/or demolition of existing structures or substantive ground disturbing activities; for this reason, impacts to cultural resources would be less than significant.

Implementation of the policies to advance sustainable land uses and expand clean mobility options actions would involve encouraging transit-oriented development and sustainable development in underutilized non-residential areas of the city, as well as constructing transportation improvements to increase pedestrian, bicycle, and other non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes. Cultural resources impacts associated with such increased density near transit were previously analyzed in the General Plan FEIR and found not to result in significant impacts with implementation of General Plan policies and existing regulations. Project level cultural resources impacts from implementation of the proposed transportation improvements for non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes are not known at this time and would be examined through project level CEQA review.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe cultural resources impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Addendum. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 22 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
ENERGY

4.6.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Title 24
State Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential buildings, as specified in Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations, were established in 1978 in response to legislative mandate to reduce California’s energy consumption. Title 24 is updated approximately every three years. The 2019 Standards which became effective January 1, 2020 improve upon the 2016 standards for construction of, and additions and alterations to, residential and nonresidential buildings.

Compliance with Title 24 is mandatory at the time new building permits are issued by city and county governments.

Solar Electric Incentives
In 2020 SVP began offering the Low-Income Solar Grant Program that provides free solar panel systems to qualifying residents. This program increases the amount of renewable energy generated within the City and reduces the non-renewable energy demand of the City.

Reach Code
In 2021, the City Council adopted new Building Code Standards that reach beyond the state minimum requirements for energy use in building design and construction. Effective January 1, 2022, the Santa Clara Reach Code is focused on improving energy efficiency, increasing the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and incentivizing the electrification of existing buildings. In addition, the Code mandates the use of electricity as a power source in new construction and limits the installation of natural gas plumbing and meters.

Green Fleet Policy
Implemented in 2019, this policy effort ensures that the City purchase and use the lowest emission vehicles available to reduce vehicle emissions, consumption of non-renewable resources, and maintenance/operating costs to the City.

EV Blueprint Plan
Developed in 2019 through a grant from the California Energy Commission, this blueprint outlines 14 program initiatives to improve Santa Clara’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure to prepare to meet the state’s goal to increase the number of zero-emissions vehicles to five million by 2030.

Initiatives in the plan include updates to building codes, rebates and incentive programs, public- private partnerships, and changes to construction permitting requirements.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 23 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
Existing Conditions
In January 2018, SVP began providing 100 percent carbon-free power to all residential customers.13

4.6.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Result in a potentially significant
environmental impact due to
wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources,
during project construction or
operation?

b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or
local plan for renewable energy or
energy efficiency?

Response
Building & Energy Actions
Implementation of the CAP action to shift to electric fuels would reduce natural gas consumption and increase electricity demand by incentivizing conversion of existing buildings to all electric energy use. The proposed improve energy efficiency action would reduce the amount of energy used by new and existing development throughout the City by retrofitting existing municipal facilities, and incentivizing home energy upgrades. Additionally, implementation of a distributed energy resource pilot program would reduce solar energy loss, from lack of energy storage facilities by encouraging the installation of energy storage and micro-grid systems. Thus, implementation of these measures would result in less energy demand than that previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration and would not result in a significant impact to the environment due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources. Furthermore, the proposed 2022 CAP actions would be consistent with state and local plans to facilitate the shift to carbon-free and renewable energy such as the renewable energy portfolio standard, Title 24, and the City’s Reach Code. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Transportation & Land Use Actions
The proposed CAP actions to transition vehicles to electric alternatives, expand clean mobility options, use non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes, and advance sustainable land uses

13 City of Santa Clara, Silicon Valley Power. “Power Content Label.” Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.siliconvalleypower.com/svp-and-community/about-svp/power-content-label.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 24 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
would reduce gasoline consumption compared to that previously analyzed in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. The proposed 2022 CAP actions would be consistent with state and local plans to facilitate conversion of the passenger vehicle fleet to electric vehicles such as the California Air Resources Board Advanced Clean Cars program, as well as the City’s Green Fleet Program, and EV Blueprint Plan. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Materials & Consumption Actions
The proposed CAP actions to increase waste diversion, reduce landfilled food waste, enhance sustainable production and consumption would reduce energy use from waste processing and consumer products production compared to that previously analyzed in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. For this reason, the proposed 2022 CAP actions would not result in a significant impact to the environment due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy. The proposed CAP actions would be consistent with waste diversion requirements in Title 24 and would, therefore, not conflict with or obstruct implementation of a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Natural Systems & Water Resources Actions
The proposed CAP actions to increase the tree canopy, enhance ecosystem resilience, improve community resilience, and prepare for climate change would reduce building energy use during warmer months by reducing the urban heat island effect and prevent further increases in global temperatures. Proposed actions to improve water supply and conservation would reduce energy use from water distribution and wastewater treatment. Thus, implementation of these actions would result in less energy impact than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. For this reason, the proposed 2022 CAP actions would not result in a significant impact to the environment due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy. The proposed CAP actions would be consistent with energy efficiency and water conservation requirements in Title 24 and would, therefore, not conflict with or obstruct implementation of a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Community Resilience & Well-being Actions
The proposed CAP actions to develop a network of community resiliency centers and strengthen vital infrastructure to prepare for climate change would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the City and would not involve any changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that it would result in a potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, or conflict with a state or local renewable energy or energy efficiency plan. Impacts would be the same as those disclosed in the General Plan FEIR.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe energy impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Less Impact than Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 25 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

GEOLOGY AND SOILS

4.7.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the latest update to the California Building Code was incorporated into the Santa Clara City Code. Effective January 2020, all projects involving construction are required to comply with the 2019 editions of the California Residential, Commercial, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Energy, and Green Building Standards Codes. These regulations include standards and guidelines to prevent and reduce seismic and geological hazards and reduce soil erosion in the City of Santa Clara.

Existing Conditions
Overall, the geologic and soil conditions in the City have not changed since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

4.7.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential
substantial adverse effects, including the
risk of loss, injury, or death involving:

- 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)?

- Strong seismic ground shaking?
- Seismic-related ground failure,
including liquefaction?

- 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?

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 26 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined
in the current California Building Code,
creating substantial direct or indirect
risks to life or property?

e) Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative wastewater disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater?

f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or
unique geological feature?

Response
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would not change the areas of the City in which new development or redevelopment would occur or allow development on steeper slopes prone to landslides or other hazardous areas. No physical changes to the environment are proposed with implementation of the 2022 CAP which would result in substantial soil erosion, loss of topsoil, use of septic tanks, or directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or unique geological feature. It would not change policies or City Code requirements designed to reduce substantial risks to people, structures, or infrastructure from geologic hazards.

The 2022 CAP includes water conservation measures which may result in the extension of recycled water lines. Ground disturbance from the extension of recycled water lines would be subject to the same General Plan policies previously identified to reduce risks to people, structures, or infrastructure from geologic hazards and would be subject to project-level CEQA review as a part of the development permit process.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe geology and soils impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 27 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
The following discussion is based on the 2022 CAP Update prepared by Cascadia Consulting and included as Appendix A to this Addendum.

4.8.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
State
Executive Order S-3-05
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued Executive Order S-3-05 (EO S-3-05) in 2005 establishing the following near-term, mid-term, and long-term GHG emission reduction targets for California:
• By 2010, reduce GHG emissions to 2000 levels;
• By 2020, reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels;
• By 2050, reduce GHG emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels.

The long-term 2050 target represents the level scientists believe is necessary to reach atmospheric GHG concentrations (below 350 ppm CO2e) that will stabilize climate change. The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, commonly known as AB 32, further detailed and put into law the midterm GHG reduction target established in EO S-3-05 to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and created a comprehensive, multi-year program to reduce GHG emissions in California.

Senate Bill 32
In 2016, Senate Bill (SB) 32 was signed into law, amending the California Global Warming Solutions Act. SB 32, and accompanying Executive Order B-30-15, require CARB to ensure that statewide GHG emissions are reduced to 40 percent below the 1990 level by 2030. CARB updated it Climate Scoping Plan in December 2017 to express the 2030 statewide target in terms of million metric tons of CO
2e (MMTCO2e). Based on the emissions reductions directed by SB 32, the annual 2030 statewide target emissions level for California is 260 MMTCO2e.

Regional and Local

2017 Clean Air Plan
To protect the climate, the 2017 CAP (prepared by BAAQMD) includes control measures designed to reduce emissions of methane and other super-GHGs that are potent climate pollutants in the near- term, and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 28 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

Initiatives in the plan include updates to building codes, rebates and incentive programs, public- private partnerships, and changes to construction permitting requirements.

Bicycle Master Plan
An update to the existing Bicycle Master Plan was approved by City Council in 2018. This plan outlines the City’s long-term vision for improving the cycling infrastructure through policies, programs, and City-run projects. Initiatives are focused on creating an integrated cycling network, improving safety for cyclists, making cycling a more convenient transportation option, and fostering a more bike-friendly culture in Santa Clara.14

Pedestrian Master Plan
Adopted in 2019, this is a blueprint for making Santa Clara more walkable, with particular focus on creating an integrated pedestrian network; making walkways safer, more enjoyable, and easier to navigate; and integrating walking into land use policy to make walking a more convenient mode of everyday transportation.15

Complete Streets Policy

14 City of Santa Clara. 2019. Bicycle Plan Update 2018. 15 City of Santa Clara. 2019. Pedestrian Master Plan.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 29 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
This policy outlines specific principles for ensuring that city roadways are safe, accessible, and convenient for all transportation types, including pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists, persons with disabilities, and seniors.

Creek Trail Master Plan Expansion

Identified as a priority by the City Council in 2013, the Creek Trail Expansion Plan improves the existing on-street bicycle transportation system by developing bicycle and pedestrian creek trails along 5.75 miles of the Calabazas Creek Corridor, 3.25 miles of the Saratoga Creek Corridor and

1.75 miles of the Hetch Hetchy corridor.16

Transportation Analysis Policy

Adopted in 2020, this policy establishes the requirements for evaluating land use and transportation projects based on the estimated VMT for that project.
17 This regulatory change established a new
threshold for CEQA significance and incentivized infill development and projects that are accessible via mass transit and active modes of travel, contributing to a reduction in GHG emissions from transportation.

Specific Plans

Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the City Council has adopted three new specific plans: Tasman East, Lawrence Station, and Patrick Henry Drive; and is in the process of developing two other comprehensive plans: the Downtown Precise Plan, and the El Camino Real Specific Plan. The City is also working on the Freedom Circle Focus Area that will add capacity to the General Plan for the development of a future specific plan. These neighborhood-specific plans outline General Plan development areas of Santa Clara where there is opportunity to intensify development with limited impact on the existing neighborhoods. Plans include initiatives focused on making the areas more pedestrian friendly and promoting sustainable, dense housing developments. 18 Existing Conditions

2016 Baseline Inventory Emissions
An inventory of Santa Clara’s community wide GHG emissions in 2016 and a comparison to the 2008 inventory is provided in Appendix A. A summary of the results of this inventory is provided below. Details on the methodologies used for estimating emissions are also provided in Appendix A.

GHG emissions in 2016 totaled an estimated 1,790,833 MTCO 2e. In contrast, Santa Clara’s
community wide inventory in 2008 totaled 1,862,824 MTCO2e. Total emissions and a breakdown by sector is provided in Figure 4.8-1 below.

16 City of Santa Clara. 2013. City of Santa Clara Creek Trail Network Expansion Feasibility Study. 17 City of Santa Clara. 2020. Transportation Analysis Policy. 18 City of Santa Clara. Specific Plans.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 30 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

Figure 4.8-1: Emissions by Sector

Source: Cascadia Consulting, 2022 CAP

Between 2008 and 2016, Santa Clara’s GHG emissions have declined by approximately 4.5 percent.

In 2016, more than half of the citywide emissions were associated with non-residential energy demand, an increase of 20 percent compared to emissions for this sector in 2008. This increase is likely the result of post-recession economic growth and the increase in data centers constructed in Santa Clara during this period. Approximately one-third of the citywide emissions were from transportation.
19 Emissions Reductions Not Included in 2016 Inventory
Following completion of the 2016 Inventory, in 2018, SVP eliminated coal from its energy mix and began providing residential customers carbon-free electricity consistent with California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard. California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard requires that electricity sold by utilities be 33 percent renewable by 2020, 60 percent renewable by 2030, and 100 percent carbon free by 2045. As a result, emissions from residential electricity demand would be reduced to zero by 2045.20 This emissions reduction is not reflected in the 2016 baseline emissions.

19 City of Santa Clara. 2022 Draft Climate Action Plan. December 2021. 20 City of Santa Clara. 2022 Draft Climate Action Plan. December 2021.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 31 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

4.8.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas (GHG)
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 GHGs?

Response
The proposed 2022 CAP would involve implementation of the identified actions and reduction measures specifically designed to reduce citywide GHG emissions consistent with established reduction targets. As noted in Figure 3.2-1, according to the emissions estimates based on the most recent GHG emissions inventory, Santa Clara is projected to generate 1,497,040 MTCO2e per year by 2030.

A summary of the GHG reductions estimated to result from implementation of the proposed project are included in Table 4.8-1 and Table 4.8-2.

Table 4.8-1: 2022 CAP Actions and Reduction Estimates
Proposed Action 2030 Reduction MT CO2e
Decarbonize buildings 42,812
Reduce energy consumption 67,263
Shift to clean, renewable energy sources 192,248
Transition to electric vehicles 92,264
Reduce the number of daily miles traveled by car 152,340 Enact more sustainable city planning N/A
Planting more trees N/A
Making ecosystems more resilient 37
Conserving and expanding our water supply 3,588
Total 550,553
Source: City of Santa Clara. 2022 Draft CAP. December 2021.

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 32 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

Table 4.8-2: Achievement of CAP Targets
GHG Target Impact MTCO2e/year
2030 Emissions without CAP 1,497,040
Estimated CAP reduction 550,553
2030 Emissions with Proposed CAP (total) 946,487
2030 Target 950,040
Target Met? Yes

As shown in Table 4.8-2, the proposed 2022 CAP would reduce overall citywide GHG emissions by approximately 550,553 MTCO2e per year, resulting in citywide GHG emissions of 946,487 MTCO2e in 2030, which is below the 2030 target of 950,040 MTCO2e per year. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would not generate GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on the environment or conflict with a plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGS.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would reduce GHG emissions and would not result in any new or substantially more severe GHG emissions impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR or the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Less Impact than Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 33 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

4.9.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
The regulatory framework, in terms of federal, state, and local requirements related to hazards and hazardous materials use and the characterization and clean-up of contaminated sites is similar to that at the time of adoption of the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
Citywide, hazardous materials use and storage and contaminants of concern to regulatory agencies are similar to that described in the Negative Declaration prepared for the 2013 CAP.

4.9.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
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 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
Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would
it create a significant hazard to the
public or the environment?

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 34 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
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,
result in a safety hazard or excessive
noise for people residing or working in
the project area?

f) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan?

g) Expose people or structures, either
directly or indirectly, to a significant risk
of loss, injury, or death involving
wildland fires?

Response
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would not change the areas of the City in which new development or redevelopment would occur or allow development in hazardous areas not previously identified in the General Plan FEIR. It would not change policies or City Code requirements designed to reduce substantial risks to people, structures, or infrastructure from hazards and hazardous materials, including airport safety hazards and wildfires. Implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any direct physical changes to the environment or physically interfere with an emergency response or evacuation plan. Project level hazards and hazardous materials impacts from implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP actions are not known at this time and would be examined through project level CEQA review during the development permit process.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe hazards and hazardous materials impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 35 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY

4.10.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for hydrology and water quality since the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
Watersheds within the City of Santa Clara remain the same as described in the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. Projected sea level rise and flooding remain a concern in areas near the Bayshore.

Various state and regional agencies have initiated planning efforts to predict the potential extent of sea level rise and storm surge.

4.10.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or
waste discharge requirements or
otherwise substantially degrade surface
or ground water quality?

b) Substantially decrease groundwater
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that the
project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?

c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern 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:

- result in substantial erosion or
siltation on- or off-site;

- substantially increase the rate or
amount of surface runoff in a
manner which would result in
flooding on- or off-site;

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 36 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
- 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

- 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?

Response
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not change the areas of the City in which new development or redevelopment would occur or allow development in flood zones or groundwater recharge areas not previously identified in the General Plan FEIR. It does not change City policies or City Code requirements designed to: 1) reduce substantial risks to people, structures, or infrastructure from flooding and stormwater runoff or 2) minimize and reduce water quality impacts associated with new or existing development.

Project level hydrology and water quality impacts from implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP actions are not known at this time and would be examined through project level CEQA review during the development permit process.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe hydrology and water quality impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 37 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

LAND USE AND PLANNING

4.11.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
The regulatory framework, in terms of land use is similar to that at the time of adoption of the 2013 CAP.

Existing Conditions
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the city has approved numerous general plan amendments and rezoning requests which have changed the land use conditions in the city. These projects were required to undergo environmental review and comply with City policies and design standards to avoid division of established communities, and reduce environmental impacts.

4.11.2 Impact Discussion

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?

Response
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Implementation actions proposed in the 2022 CAP would not change the areas of the City in which new development or redevelopment would occur or allow development which would physically divide existing communities (such as new roads) or create a significant environmental impact due to conflict with existing land use plans or policies.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe land use impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 38 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022

MINERAL RESOURCES

4.12.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for mineral resources identified in the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration.

Existing Conditions
There have been no substantial changes to environmental conditions regarding mineral resources within the City of Santa Clara.

4.12.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
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?

Response
Mineral resources were addressed in Section 4.5.4.3 of the General Plan FEIR. No significant impacts to mineral resources of regional or statewide significance were identified. Therefore, similar to the certified General Plan FEIR, implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not result in impacts to mineral resources.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe mineral resources impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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NOISE

4.13.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for noise and vibration identified in the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration.

Existing Conditions
Since adoption of the General Plan, the volume of vehicle trips have increased along with the increased population in Santa Clara, resulting in increased noise levels on some roadways, as projected in the General Plan FEIR.21

4.13.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
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 located within the vicinity of a
private airstrip or an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted,
within two miles of a public airport or
public use airport, would the project expose
people residing or working in the project
area to excessive noise levels?

Response
Building & Energy Actions
Implementation of the CAP actions to shift to electric fuels, retrofit existing municipal facilities, incentivize home energy upgrades, and implement a distributed energy resource pilot program would involve improvements to new and existing buildings. Noise and vibration impacts associated with new development and redevelopment of existing buildings in Santa Clara were previously analyzed

21 City of Santa Clara. Integrated Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Santa Clara Draft 2010- 2035 General Plan Volume I, EIR Text. January 2011. Page 438 -455.

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in the General Plan FEIR and determined to have a less than significant impact with implementation of standard conditions of approval and compliance with General Plan policies. The proposed 2022 CAP would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the City and would not result in new noise and vibration impacts not previously considered in the General Plan FEIR. Therefore, noise and vibration impacts would be less than significant, same as the approved project.

Transportation & Land Use Actions
Electric vehicles and other non-motorized modes of transportation generate lower noise levels than standard combustion engine vehicles. The proposed CAP actions to transition vehicles to electric alternatives, expand clean mobility options, use non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes, and advance sustainable land uses would reduce the number of vehicle trips taken in the City using combustion engine vehicle. Therefore, implementation of these actions would reduce traffic noise levels compared to those identified in the General Plan FEIR.

Materials & Consumption Actions
The proposed CAP actions to increase waste diversion, reduce landfilled food waste, enhance sustainable production and consumption would not result in physical changes to the environment such that significant noise and vibration impacts would occur. Therefore, noise and vibration impacts would be less than significant, same as the approved project.

Natural Systems & Water Resources Actions
The proposed CAP actions to increase the tree canopy, enhance ecosystem resilience, improve community resilience, and prepare for climate change and would not result in physical changes to the environment such that significant noise and vibration impacts would occur. Therefore, noise and vibration impacts would be less than significant, same as the approved project.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe noise and vibration impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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POPULATION AND HOUSING

4.14.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Housing Element Update (2015 – 2023)
In December 2014, the City Council Adopted the 2015-2023 Housing Element Update which is one of the seven state-required elements of the General Plan and provides important information for the California Department of Housing and Community Development and California Department of Finance calculations of statewide housing needs.

Existing Conditions
In 2013, the population of Santa Clara was 121,45922 and there were 136,980 jobs.23 The current population is 130,746,24 and there are an estimated 143,565 jobs.25

4.14.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Induce substantial unplanned population
growth in an area, either directly (for
example, by proposing new homes and
businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?

b) Displace substantial numbers of existing
people or housing, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?

22 California Department of Finance. E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011- 2021 with 2010 Census Benchmark. May 2021.
https://www.dof.ca.gov/Forecasting/Demographics/Estimates/e-5/ 23 Association of Bay Area Governments. “Projections 2040, Total Employment.” Accessed September 17, 2021. http://projections.planbayarea.org/data
24 California Department of Finance. E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011- 2021 with 2010 Census Benchmark. May 2021.
https://www.dof.ca.gov/Forecasting/Demographics/Estimates/e-5/ 25 Association of Bay Area Governments. “Projections 2040, Total Employment.” Accessed September 17, 2021. http://projections.planbayarea.org/data

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Response
The proposed 2022 CAP involves implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the City and would not involve changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that the City’s population would exceed levels previously identified and analyzed in the General Plan FEIR.

Moreover, because the proposed 2022 CAP update includes implementation actions and does not involve specific development projects, it would not result in direct displacement of substantial numbers of existing people or housing such that construction of replacement housing would be necessary.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe population and housing impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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PUBLIC SERVICES

4.15.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for public services since the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration.

Existing Conditions
To accommodate increased demand on fire protection services resulting from the recently approved Related Santa Clara development project in northeast Santa Clara, two of the City’s fire stations (Station 8 and Station 10) are undergoing renovations. Renovations to Fire Station 8 were completed in February 2020 and included a new dormitory wing, all-gender bathrooms, fitness room, workshop, and turnout storage room. Fire Station 10 closed March 1, 2020, to allow for construction of a new fire station at a location to be determined when land is secured.

Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the City has rehabilitated and expanded four existing neighborhood and community parks, Agnew Park, Fuller Park, Machado Park, and Meadow Park. Improvements made to these parks are included below.

• Agnew Park improvements included a new playground that features a triple slide, swings, and climbing wall.
• Fuller Park was enhanced to complete the original park master plan “Phase Two”.

Improvements made to this park included a volleyball court, basketball half court and fitness equipment cluster. In addition, accessibility improvements were made to and from the park and surrounding area.
• Machado Park was rehabilitated with two new playground areas, one for children 2-5 years old and one for those 6-12 years old, plus ramp access to a hillside slide. • Meadow Park was expanded to include new play spaces with natural meadow habitat, redwood trail with fitness stations, restroom, and a group picnic area.

In January 2012, the Santa Clara Unified School District Board of Trustees approved the Agnews Campus project, which will construct three new schools (one elementary, one middle, and one high school) on a 55-acre site at 3500 Zanker Road in North San José. Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, construction of the elementary and middle schools (Abram Agnew Elementary and Dolores Huerta Middle School) has been completed and both schools are operational as of September 2021.26 Construction of the high school (Kathleen MacDonald High School) is ongoing with a target opening date of Fall 2022.

There have been no substantial changes to the environmental conditions for police protection services, libraries, and other public facilities in the City of Santa Clara.

26 Santa Clara Unified School District. “Agnew/Huerta Frequently Asked Questions.” Accessed September 17, 2021. https://www.santaclarausd.org/Page/3502

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4.15.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than Approved
Project
Would the project result in substantial
adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities, need for new or
physically altered governmental facilities,
the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order
to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times, or other performance
objectives for any of the public services:
a) Fire Protection?
b) Police Protection?
c) Schools?
d) Parks?
e) Other Public Facilities?

Response
The proposed 2022 CAP involves implementation actions designed to reduce GHG emissions produced throughout the City to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and previously developed areas of the City and would not involve any changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that the city’s service population would exceed levels previously identified and analyzed in the General Plan FEIR. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would not result in substantial adverse physical impact associated with the provision of new or physically altered facilities for fire protection, police protection, schools, parks, or other public facilities.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe public services impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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RECREATION

4.16.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantial changes to the regulatory framework for recreation.

Existing Conditions
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the City has rehabilitated and expanded existing facilities at the following neighborhood and community parks and senior center and constructed the following new parks.
• Nuevo Community Park, a new park located at 3505 Kifer Road, opened in the Summer 2021 • Fitness Equipment was added to the Santa Clara Senior Center, located at 1303 Fremont Street, in the Summer 2021.
• Raymond G. Gamma Dog Park, located at 888 Reed Street, was rehabilitated and reopened in June 2021.
• Creekside Park, a new park located at 3225 Scott Boulevard, opened in January 2021. • Homeridge Park Playground, located at 2985 Stevenson Street, was rehabilitated and reopened in December 2020.
• Reed & Grant Sports Park, a new park located at 720 Reed Street, opened in October 2020. • Agnew Park playground, located at 2150 Agnew Road, was rehabilitated and reopened in 2020.
• Fuller Park, located at 61 Fuller Street, was rehabilitated and reopened in 2020. • Machado Park, located at 3360 Cabrillo Avenue was rehabilitated and reopened in 2020. • Meadow Park and Redwood Trail, a new park located at 3360 Octavius Drive opened in 2020.
• Bowers Park Playground, located at 2582 Cabrillo Avenue was rehabilitated and reopened in 2019.
• Larry J. Marsalli Park Off-Leash Dog Area, located at 1425 Lafayette Street was rehabilitated and reopened in 2018.
• Everett N. “Eddie” Souza Neighborhood Park & Community Garden, located at 2350 Monroe Street was rehabilitated and reopened in 2018.
• Bill Wilson Jr. Park, located at 2902 Miles Drive was rehabilitated and reopened in 2018. • Steve Carli Park Playground, located at 1045 Los Padres Boulevard, was rehabilitated and reopened in 2017.
• Bracher Park, located at 2560 Alhambra Drive was rehabilitated and reopened in 2016.

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4.16.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
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
which might have an adverse physical
effect on the environment?

Response
The proposed 2022 CAP involves implementation actions designed to reduce citywide GHG emissions and to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and previously developed areas of the City and would not involve any changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that the city’s service population would exceed levels previously identified and analyzed in the General Plan FEIR. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would not increase use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or recreational facility such that substantial physical deterioration would occur or require construction or expansion of recreational facilities resulting in an adverse physical impact on the environment.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe recreation impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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TRANSPORTATION

4.17.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Regional
Regional Transportation Plan
In October 2021, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Association of Bay Area Governments adopted Plan Bay Area 2050, which includes a Regional Transportation Plan to guide regional transportation investments for revenues from federal, state, regional, and local sources through 2050. The plan also includes transportation strategies to maintain and optimize the existing transportation system, create health and safe streets, and build a next-generation transit network.

Local
Bicycle Master Plan
An update to the existing Bicycle Master Plan was approved by City Council in 2018. This plan outlines the City’s long-term vision for improving the cycling infrastructure through policies, programs, and City-run projects. Initiatives are focused on creating an integrated cycling network, improving safety for cyclists, making cycling a more convenient transportation option, and fostering a more bike-friendly culture in Santa Clara.
27 Pedestrian Master Plan
Adopted in 2019, this is a blueprint for making Santa Clara more walkable, with particular focus on creating an integrated pedestrian network; making walkways safer, more enjoyable, and easier to navigate; and integrating walking into land use policy to make walking a more convenient mode of everyday transportation.
28 Complete Streets Policy
This policy outlines specific principles for ensuring that city roadways are safe, accessible, and convenient for all transportation types, including pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists, persons with disabilities, and seniors.

Creek Trail Master Plan Expansion
Identified as a priority by the City Council in 2013, the Creek Trail Expansion Plan improves the existing on-street bicycle transportation system by developing bicycle and pedestrian creek trails along 5.75 miles of the Calabazas Creek Corridor, 3.25 miles of the Saratoga Creek Corridor and

1.75 miles of the Hetch Hetchy corridor.29

27 City of Santa Clara. 2019. Bicycle Plan Update 2018. 28 City of Santa Clara. 2019. Pedestrian Master Plan.
29 City of Santa Clara. 2013. City of Santa Clara Creek Trail Network Expansion Feasibility Study.

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City of Santa Clara Transportation Analysis Policy
Adopted in 2020, this policy establishes the requirements for evaluating land use and transportation projects based on the estimated VMT for that project.30 This regulatory change established a new threshold for CEQA significance and incentivized infill development and projects that are accessible via mass transit and active modes of travel.

Specific Plans
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, the City Council has adopted three new specific plans: Tasman East, Lawrence Station, and Patrick Henry Drive; and is in the process of developing two other comprehensive plans: the Downtown Precise Plan, and the El Camino Real Specific Plan. The City is also working on the Freedom Circle Focus Area that will add capacity to the General Plan for the development of a future specific plan. These neighborhood-specific plans outline General Plan development areas of Santa Clara where there is opportunity to intensify development with limited impact on the existing neighborhood. Plans include initiatives focused on making the areas more pedestrian friendly and promoting sustainable, dense housing developments.31

Existing Conditions

As of the Winter of 2022, the San Tomas Aquinas Trail was constructed by the County of Santa Clara and stretches between El Camino Real and Homestead Road. In addition, the City has added numerous bike lanes to existing roadways throughout the city. These improvements have increased pedestrian and bicycle accessibility since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

4.17.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance,
or policy addressing the circulation
system, including transit, roadways,
bicycle lanes, and pedestrian facilities?

b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision
(b)?

c) Substantially increase hazards due to a
geometric design feature (e.g., sharp
curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?

30 City of Santa Clara. 2020. Transportation Analysis Policy. 31 City of Santa Clara. Specific Plans.

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Responses
Transportation & Land Use Actions
The proposed CAP actions to transition vehicles to electric alternatives, expand clean mobility options, use non-single occupancy vehicle transportation modes, and advance sustainable land uses would reduce VMT and the number of vehicle trips taken in the City using single-occupancy vehicles and would not conflict with existing transportation programs or policies such as the City’s Bicycle Master Plan, Pedestrian Master Plan, Complete Streets Policy, Creek Trail Master Plan Expansion, and Transportation Analysis Policy. No specific development projects would occur with implementation of the proposed actions such that changes to the physical environment would occur resulting in geometric hazards or inadequate emergency access, consistent with the conclusions of the General Plan FEIR.

Other Actions
The proposed 2022 CAP involves implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and developed areas of the City and would not involve any changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that it would conflict with an existing transportation program or policy, create geometric hazards or result in inadequate emergency access, consistent with the conclusions of the General Plan FEIR. Project level transportation impacts from implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP actions are not known at this time and would be examined through project level CEQA review during the development permit process.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe transportation impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES

4.18.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, California Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) was passed in November 2014, which expands CEQA by identifying a new resource category, “tribal cultural resources” which are defined in Public Resources Code Section 21074 (a)(1)(A) and (B) as “sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American Tribe” and is:

1. Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historic Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1 (k) or

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

AB 52 also establishes a formal consultation process for California tribes regarding the potential for non-exempt projects (resulting in a Negative Declaration or Environmental Impact Report) to impact tribal cultural resources.

The General Plan Integrated FEIR considered tribal cultural resources in the context of cultural resources and identified a less than significant impact to tribal cultural resources because implementation of General Plan policies and compliance with existing policies and programs would reduce impacts to unrecorded resources.

Existing Conditions
There has been no change in the existing conditions regarding Tribal Cultural Resources since adoption of the 2013 CAP.

4.18.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same
Impact as
Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
Would the project cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a tribal cultural
resource, defined in Public Resources Code
Section 21074 as either a site, feature, place,
cultural landscape that is geographically
defined in terms of the size and scope of the
landscape, sacred place, or object with
cultural value to a California Native
American tribe, and that is:

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a) 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)?

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

Response
The proposed 2022 CAP would involve implementation of policy actions designed to reduce GHG emissions citywide. Implementation of the proposed 2022 CAP would not change the land uses, areas of the City in which new development or redevelopment would occur, or allow development which would cause a substantial adverse change to a tribal cultural resource.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS

4.19.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
There have been no substantive changes to the regulatory framework for utilities and service systems.

Existing Conditions
Since adoption of the 2013 CAP, numerous development projects have been approved and constructed which have changed the utilities and service systems conditions in the city. These projects were required to undergo environmental review and comply with City policies and standards to avoid insufficient capacity to provide utilities services and ensure compliance with state and local standards.

4.19.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
a) Require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded water,
wastewater treatment or stormwater
drainage, electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities, the
construction or relocation of which
could cause significant environmental
effects?

b) Have insufficient water supplies
available to serve the project and
reasonably foreseeable future
development during normal, dry and
multiple dry years?

c) Result in a determination by the
wastewater treatment provider which
serves or may serve the project that it
does not have 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?

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New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less Impact
than
Approved
Project
Would the project:
e) Be noncompliant with federal, state, or
local management and reduction
statutes and regulations related to solid
waste?

Response
Water Resources Actions
The 2022 CAP includes water conservation actions which may result in the extension of recycled water lines. The environmental effects of these actions are discussed throughout this Addendum and were determined to be less than significant with implementation of standard conditions of approval and compliance with existing General Plan policies and local, state, and federal regulations.

Other Actions
The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings, and previously developed areas of the City and would not involve any changes to land use, housing, or jobs such that the city’s service population would exceed levels previously identified and analyzed in the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. For these reasons, the proposed 2022 CAP would result in the same impacts regarding water supply, wastewater treatment capacity and solid waste generation as previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and 2013 CAP Negative Declaration.

Conclusions
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe utilities and service system impacts than previously identified in the General Plan Final EIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

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WILDFIRE

4.20.1 Environmental Setting
Regulatory Framework
Since certification of the General Plan FEIR, a set of amendments to the CEQA Guidelines were passed in 2018, requiring wildfire to be addressed as a separate section in the Appendix G checklist.

Although questions related to wildfire hazard were previously discussed under Section 4.13, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, of the General Plan FEIR, additional questions were added in 2018 that were not previously addressed in the General Plan FEIR.

Existing Conditions
There are no changes in the environmental conditions with respect to wildfire.

4.20.2 Impact Discussion

New
Potentially
Significant
Impact
New Less
than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
New Less
than
Significant
Impact
Same Impact
as Approved
Project
Less
Impact than
Approved
Project
If located in or near state responsibility areas
or lands classified as very high fire hazard
severity zones, 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?

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Response
Although wildfire impacts were previously analyzed in Section 4.13 of the General Plan FEIR, this analysis did not address specific hazards associated with development within wildfire hazard zones.

As noted in the General Plan FEIR, there are no wildfire hazard zones within the City of Santa Clara.32 The proposed project would involve implementation actions which would reduce citywide GHG emissions to achieve state mandated reduction goals. Proposed actions would occur within existing buildings and previously developed areas of the City which are not located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones. The project, therefore, would not result in any impact related to emergency response or evacuation, exposure of project occupants to pollutant concentrations from uncontrolled spread of wildfire, the installation of infrastructure to combat wildfire, or exposure of people or structures to risks of flooding or landslides resulting from post-fire runoff, slope instability, or drainage changes. For these reasons, the proposed project would not result in wildfire impacts substantially different from those previously identified in the General Plan FEIR.

Conclusion
The proposed 2022 CAP would not result in any new or substantially more severe wildfire impacts than previously identified in the General Plan FEIR and the 2013 CAP Negative Declaration. (Same Impact as Approved Project)

32 City of Santa Clara. Integrated Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Santa Clara Draft 2010- 2035 General Plan Volume I, EIR Text. January 2011.

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SECTION 5.0 CONCLUSION
Based on the above analysis and discussion, no substantive revisions are needed to the General Plan FEIR (including the 2013 Negative Declaration), because no new significant impacts or impacts of substantially greater severity would result from the 2022 CAP project. There have been no changes in circumstance in the project area that would result in new significant environmental impacts or substantially more severe impacts, and no new information has come to light that would indicate the potential for new significant impacts or substantially more severe impacts than were discussed in the General Plan FEIR (including the 2013 Negative Declaration). Therefore, no further evaluation is required, and no Subsequent EIR is needed pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, and an EIR Addendum has therefore appropriately been prepared, pursuant to Section 15164.

Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15164(c), this Addendum need not be circulated for public review, but will be included in the public record file for the General Plan FEIR.

Andrew Crabtree
Director of Community Development

_____________________________________
Signature

_____________________________________
Date

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City of Santa Clara March 2022
SECTION 6.0 REFERENCES
The analysis in this Initial Study is based on the professional judgement and expertise of the environmental specialists preparing this document, based upon review of the site, surrounding conditions, site plans, and the following references:

Association of Bay Area Governments. “Projections 2040, Total Employment.” Accessed September 17, 2021. http://projections.planbayarea.org/data

BAAQMD. Final 2017 Clean Air Plan. April 19, 2017. https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air- quality-plans/current-plans

California Association of Resource Conservation Districts. “Carbon Farming.” September 14, 2021. https://carcd.org/our-work/project/carbon-farming/

California Department of Finance. E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011- 2021 with 2010 Census Benchmark. May 2021. https://www.dof.ca.gov/Forecasting/Demographics/Estimates/e-5/

City of Santa Clara. 2022 Draft Climate Action Plan. December 2021.

-----. Bicycle Plan Update 2018. June 2021.
https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/64549/636973309258870000

-----. “City News, Building Electrification and Electric Vehicle Reach Codes.” December 23, 20219. https://www.santaclaraca.gov/Home/Components/News/News/39775/

-----. Creek Trail Network Expansion Feasibility Study. November 2013. https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument?id=10152

-----. Integrated Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Santa Clara Draft 2010- 2035 General Plan Volume I, EIR Text. January 2011.

-----. Pedestrian Master Plan 2019. 2019.
https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/66646/637184802740430000

-----. Final Transportation Analysis Policy. June 23, 2020. https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our- city/departments-g-z/public-works/engineering/traffic-engineering/transportation-analysis-policy- update

-----. “Specific Plans.” Accessed November 30, 2021. https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/departments- a-f/community-development/planning-division/specific-plans

-----, Silicon Valley Power. “Power Content Label.” Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.siliconvalleypower.com/svp-and-community/about-svp/power-content-label.

Santa Clara Unified School District. “Agnew/Huerta Frequently Asked Questions.” Accessed September 17, 2021. https://www.santaclarausd.org/Page/3502

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 58 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
SECTION 7.0 LEAD AGENCY AND CONSULTANTS

LEAD AGENCY
City of Santa Clara
Department of Community Development, Planning Division
John Davidson, Principal Planner
Nimisha Agarwal, Associate Planner

CONSULTANTS
David J. Powers & Associates, Inc.

Environmental Consultants and Planners
Shannon George, Principal Project Manager
Carolyn Neer, Project Manager
Ryan Osako, Graphic Artist

Santa Clara Climate Action Plan Update 59 Addendum
City of Santa Clara March 2022
SECTION 8.0 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
AB Assembly Bill
BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District
2017 CAP Bay Area 2017 Clean Air Plan
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CAP Climate Action Plan
CIP Climate Resilience Capital Improvements Program
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EO S-3-05 Executive Order S-3-05
General Plan FEIR 2010-2035 General Plan Integrated Final Environmental Impact Report GHG greenhouse gas
IS Initial Study
MTCO2e metric tons of CO2e
MMTCO2e million metric tons of CO2e
NOD Notice of Determination
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
SB Senate Bill
SVP Silicon Valley Power
TAC Toxic air contaminants
TDM Transportation Demand Management
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
VMT vehicle miles traveled

City Council and Authorities ConcurrentJune 7, 2022

City Council and Authorities Concurrent
June 7, 2022