of the human ear. To reflect the nature of grading and construction activities, construction equipment was modeled over as an area source over the footprint of each of the sites.
4.10.4.4 Vibration
a. Construction Vibration
Human reaction to vibration is dependent on the environment the receiver is in as well as individual sensitivity. For example, vibration outdoors is rarely noticeable and generally not considered annoying. Typically, humans must be inside a structure for vibrations to become noticeable and/or annoying. Based on several federal studies, the threshold of perception is 0.035 inch per second (in/sec) peak particle velocity (PPV), with 0.24 in/sec PPV being a distinctly perceptible (Caltrans 2013b). Neither cosmetic nor structural damage of buildings occurs at levels below 0.1 in/sec PPV.
Construction activities have the potential to result in varying degrees of temporary ground vibration, depending on the specific construction equipment used and operations involved. Representative vibration source levels were obtained from the FTA (2006) and were evaluated at the nearest structure to the project site. Vibration perception would occur at structures, as people do not perceive vibrations without vibrating structures. The ground vibration levels associated with various types of construction equipment are summarized in Table 4.10-4.
Table 4.10-4
Vibration Levels for Construction Equipment
Equipment
Approximate PPV Vibration Level at
25 feet (inch/second)
Pile Driver, Impact (Upper Range) 1.518
Pile Drive, Impact (Typical) 0.644
Pile Driver, Sonic (Upper Range) 0.734
Pile Drive, Sonic (Typical) 0.170
Vibratory Roller 0.210
Large Bulldozer 0.089
Caisson Drilling 0.089
Loaded Trucks 0.076
Jackhammer 0.035
Small Bulldozer 0.003
SOURCE: FTA 2018.
PPV = peak particle velocity
b. Operational Vibration
In addition to construction, land uses commonly associated with operational sources of groundborne noise and vibration include mining and other extractive facilities or railways. There are no operational sources of vibration in the vicinity of the Rezone Sites, the project would not be a source of operational groundborne vibration, and the sites are located 700 feet or more from the trolley line.
Therefore, the only potential source of vibration impact is from construction. Accordingly, the analysis focuses on vibration from construction equipment only.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.10.5 Issue 1: Noise Standards
Would the project result in 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?
4.10.5.1 Impact Analysis
a. Vehicle Traffic Noise
Increase in Ambient Noise
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Future development as a result of development at the Rezone Sites would increase traffic volumes on local roadways. As discussed in Section 4.10.2(a), a significant impact would occur if, as a direct result of the project, (1) noise levels would exceed the compatibility standards identified in Table 4.10-2, or (2) noise levels which already exceed the levels considered compatible for that use are increased by 3 dB or more.
The noise analysis is based on the existing (year 2020) and future (year 2050) traffic volume data.
The traffic analysis included approximately 400 circulation element roadway segments within the City and vicinity. The change in noise level was calculated for these roadway segments, as well as SR-52, SR-126, and SR-67, for the existing condition and buildout of the project. Noise impacts were determined by comparing the change in noise levels between the existing condition and buildout of the project to the criteria listed above.
Based on the impact criteria above, project buildout would result in a significant noise increase over existing ambient noise levels at nine of the analyzed roadway segments. The impacted segments are summarized in Table 4.10-5. Complete calculations for all roadways segments are included in Appendix E.
Table 4.10-5
Significant Traffic Noise Increases Along Study Roadway Segments Roadway Segment
Existing
Noise Level
(dB(A) Ldn at
50 feet)
Project Buildout
Year 2050
Noise Level
(dB(A) Ldn at 50 feet)
Noise
Increase
(dB)
Cuyamaca Street Princess Joann Road to Woodglen Vista Drive 60.3 66.4 6.1 Cuyamaca Street Woodglen Vista Drive to El Nopal 62.6 66.1 3.5 Fanita Parkway Lan Canyon Road to Mast Boulevard 63.1 66.9 3.8 Magnolia Avenue Princess Joann Road to Alphonse Street 49.9 65.4 15.5 Magnolia Avenue Alphonse Street to City Hall 49.9 65.4 15.5 Magnolia Avenue City Hall to Kerrigan Street 63.3 67.2 3.9 Magnolia Avenue Kerrigan Street to Woodglen Vista Drive 63.3 67.2 3.9 Magnolia Avenue Len Street to El Nopal 65.6 68.7 3.1
Summit Avenue North of Princess Joann Road 50.5 66.4 15.9
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
For informational purposes, noise level increases associated with buildout (year 2050) of the adopted land use plan were also calculated. It was found that no significant noise level increases would occur under the adopted land use plan. Therefore, the nine impacted roadway segments identified in Table 4.10-5 are a direct result of buildout of the project. Impacts related to the permanent increase in ambient noise would be significant.
Land Use Compatibility
The General Plan Noise Element provides guidelines for determining acceptable and unacceptable community noise exposure limits for various land use categories (see Table 4.10-2). As shown, multifamily residential uses are normally acceptable with noise levels up to 65 dB(A) Ldn and conditionally acceptable with noise levels up to 70 dB(A) Ldn. Future vehicle traffic noise contours with buildout of the project are shown in Figure 4.10-4.
Sites 1 through 10
Sites 1 through 10 are located off Summit Avenue and Summit Crest Avenue, north of SR-52 and northwest of SR-67. Sites 1 through 10 have a total development potential of 124 multi-family units.
As shown in Figure 4.10-5.1, future noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn only immediately adjacent to Summit Avenue. To accommodate project access, Summit Avenue would need to be improved and the 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour may fall within the Summit Avenue right-of-way.
Development of Sites 1 through 10 would require future discretionary review. Any siting of new noisesensitive land uses within a noise environment that exceeds the normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion represents a potentially significant impact and would require a separate noise study through the development review process to determine the level of impacts and required mitigation. Noise Element Policy 2.1 would require that future development include noise control for exterior and interior living spaces of all new residential development. Section 8.0 of the Noise Element provides implementation measures that may be incorporated into a project to reduce noise levels. Additionally, as required by the CCRs (see Section 4.10.2.1), future ministerial and discretionary projects would be required to demonstrate that interior noise levels would be reduced to 45 dB(A) Ldn or less. However, absent a specific development proposal with site designs, the potential for shielding of exterior use areas cannot be known at this programmatic level of review. Therefore, due to the siting of new noise-sensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result.
Sites 11 and 12
Sites 11 and 12 are located off Conejo Road, north of SR-52 and northwest of SR-67. Site 11 has the potential to be developed with eight multi-family units, and Site 12 has the potential to be developed with six multi-family units. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.2, these sites are located well outside the 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour. Noise levels would be less than the City’s normally acceptable noise standard, and impacts would be less than significant.
FIGURE 4.10-4
Future Vehicle Traffic Noise Contours
24 30
29 25
15 16B
16A 20A
20B
17 18
19 35
12 11
3 2
1 8
7 9
10 6
5 4
UV67
UV67
UV67
UV52
UV52
UV125
S . D . C O U N T Y
C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O
C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N
MISSION GORGE RD
N MAGNOLIA AVE
FANITA DR
MAST BLVD
PROSPECT AVE
EL NOPAL
MESA RD
CARLTON OAKS DR
N M
AGN
OLIA AVE
P
EBBLE BEACH
DR
HALBERNS
BLVD
LAKE C
C
ANYON RD
ARLTON
HILLS BLV
D
FANI
TA PKY
24 30
29 25
15 16B
16A 20A
20B
17 18
19 35
12 11
3 2
1 8
7 9
10 6
5 4
UV67
UV67
UV67
UV52
UV52
UV125
S . D . C O U N T Y
C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O
C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N
MISSION GORGE RD
N MAGNOLIA AVE
FANITA DR
MAST BLVD
PROSPECT AVE
EL NOPAL
MESA RD
CARLTON OAKS DR
N M
AGN
OLIA AVE
P
EBBLE BEACH
DR
HALBERNS
BLVD
LAKE C
C
ANYON RD
ARLTON
HILLS BLV
D
FANI
TA PKY
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0 Miles 1 [
City of Santee Boundary
Discretionary Development Sites
Eligible By-Right Development Sites
Graves Avenue Rezone Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.1
Future Vehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 1 thro ugh 10
KEITH ST
PRINCE VALIANT DR
CABO
CT
EASTHAVEN CT
PRINCE CHARMING LN
STONEY CREEK CT
SUMMIT AVE
SIR LANCELOT DR
DAKOTA
RANCH RD
N M
A
GNOL AI AVE
EASTHAVEN DR
SUMMIT
CREST DR
1 2
3 4
5 7 6
8 9
10 KEITH ST
PRINCE VALIANT DR
CABO
CT
EASTHAVEN CT
PRINCE CHARMING LN
STONEY CREEK CT
SUMMIT AVE
SIR LANCELOT DR
DAKOTA
RANCH RD
N M
A
GNOL AI AVE
EASTHAVEN DR
SUMMIT
CREST DR
1 2
3 4
5 7 6
8 9
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[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio nary Develo p men t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.2
Future Vehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 11 and 12
B
EC
K
D
R
CUYAMACA ST
MAST BLVD
ERIN WAY
PEACEFUL CT
PRIVATE DRWY
PRIVATE DRWY
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
S
ANTAN
A
RA
N
CH
DR
EL NOPAL
SHIRLEY GARDENS DR
J
I
L
L
S
T
CONEJO RD
VIA RITA
VIA NINA
S
I
LV
E R ADO CT
PRIVATE RD
BILTEER DR
CAREFREE DR
P
R
I
VATE
DRW
Y
STANLEY CT
VIA LESLIE
J O
N
B
E
L
L
P
L
PRIVATE DRWY
PRIVATE DRWY
PEACEFUL DR
C O
N
E
J
O
P
L
PARK CENTER DR
SAPPINGTON CT
SAN REMO RD
PRATT CT
VIA WAKEFIELD
BELL GARDENS DR
RESTFUL CT
CONEJO LN
JUDY DR
P
A
R
K
T
ERRACE DR
CONEJO LN
LAUREN WAY
THERESA LN
GOLDEN WEST LN
GREAT ROCK RD
CASPI GARDENS DR
VIA MAVIS
CARDOZA DR
VIA DEBBIE
GEM TREE WAY
WOODROSE AVE
ALLENWOOD WAY
ASHDALE LN
WAYNECREST LN
TIMBERLANE WAY
WOODPARK DR
12 11
B
EC
K
D
R
CUYAMACA ST
MAST BLVD
ERIN WAY
PEACEFUL CT
PRIVATE DRWY
PRIVATE DRWY
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
S
ANTAN
A
RA
N
CH
DR
EL NOPAL
SHIRLEY GARDENS DR
J
I
L
L
S
T
CONEJO RD
VIA RITA
VIA NINA
S
I
LV
E R ADO CT
PRIVATE RD
BILTEER DR
CAREFREE DR
P
R
I
VATE
DRW
Y
STANLEY CT
VIA LESLIE
J O
N
B
E
L
L
P
L
PRIVATE DRWY
PRIVATE DRWY
PEACEFUL DR
C O
N
E
J
O
P
L
PARK CENTER DR
SAPPINGTON CT
SAN REMO RD
PRATT CT
VIA WAKEFIELD
BELL GARDENS DR
RESTFUL CT
CONEJO LN
JUDY DR
P
A
R
K
T
ERRACE DR
CONEJO LN
LAUREN WAY
THERESA LN
GOLDEN WEST LN
GREAT ROCK RD
CASPI GARDENS DR
VIA MAVIS
CARDOZA DR
VIA DEBBIE
GEM TREE WAY
WOODROSE AVE
ALLENWOOD WAY
ASHDALE LN
WAYNECREST LN
TIMBERLANE WAY
WOODPARK DR
12 11
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[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio nary Develo p men t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Site 15
Site 15 is located north of SR-52, on Town Center Parkway within the Santee Town Center. Site 15 has the potential to be developed with 115 multi-family units. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.3, the driveway access to Site 15 is located within the 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour for Mission Gorge Road, however, the developable area of Site 15 is located outside the dB(A) Ldn noise contour. These noise contours do not take into account shielding provided by the buildings located between the site and the adjacent roadways. Therefore, actual future noise levels at the project site would be less than shown. Noise levels at Site 15 would be compatible with the City’s noise normally acceptable noise standard of 65 dB(A) Ldn, and noise impacts would be less than significant.
Site 15 is eligible for by-right development. Since noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn, no noise reduction measures would be required.
Sites 16A and 16B
Sites 16A and 16B are located north of SR-52 and west of SR-67, off Civic Center Drive near town center. Site 16A has the potential to be developed with 333 multi-family units, and Site 16B has the potential to be developed with 120 multi-family units. Additionally, Site 16A could include groundfloor retail uses. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.4, Sites 16A and 16B are located outside the 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour. Noise levels would be less than the City’s normally acceptable noise standard, and impacts would be less than significant.
Site 16A is eligible for by-right development. Since noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn, no noise reduction measures would be required.
Sites 17 and 18
Sites 17 and 18 are located off Cottonwood Avenue, north of SR-52 and west of SR-67. Site 17 has the potential to be developed with 279 multi-family units, and Site 18 has the potential to be developed with 98 multi-family units. Park Center Drive currently terminates in a cul-du-sac at the western boundary of Site 18 and northern boundary of Site 17. The future circulation element roadway plan includes extensions through these sites, and as shown in Figure 4.10-5.5, those roadway extensions were reflected in the future year 2050 SANDAG traffic modeling. Future noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn only immediately adjacent to these future roadway extensions, and the 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour may fall within the roadway right-of-way. Future noise levels at the majority of Sites 17 and 18 would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn. Noise levels would not exceed the conditionally acceptable noise standard of 70 dB(A) Ldn. Sites 17 and 18 are eligible for by-right development. Under the current circulation element roadway system, exterior noise levels would not exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn, and no noise reduction measures would be required. Should the roadway extensions be included in the future project design, noise levels would exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn immediately adjacent to the roadways, but would not exceed 70 dB(A) Ldn.
FIGURE 4.10-5.3
Future V ehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Site 15
UV52
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVE LN
MISSION GORGE RD
WILLOWGROVE AVE
CARLTON
HILLS
BLVD
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
HAZELDON DR
MAC COOL LN
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
TOWN CENTER PKY
15 UV52
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVE LN
MISSION GORGE RD
WILLOWGROVE AVE
CARLTON
HILLS
BLVD
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
HAZELDON DR
MAC COOL LN
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
TOWN CENTER PKY
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[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Eligible By-Right Develo pm en t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.4
Future V ehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 16A an d 16B
04TH ST
COTTONWOOD AVE
CHUBB LN
PARK AVE
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
COTTONWOOD AVE
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
TOWN CENTER PKY
ALLEY
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
RIVERVIEW PKY
TRANSIT WAY
16B
16A
04TH ST
COTTONWOOD AVE
CHUBB LN
PARK AVE
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
COTTONWOOD AVE
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
TOWN CENTER PKY
ALLEY
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
RIVERVIEW PKY
TRANSIT WAY
16B
16A
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[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio n ary Develo pm en t Sites
Eligible By-Right Develo pm en t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.5
Future V ehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 17, 18 an d 19
PRIVATE DRWY
N MAGNOLIA AVE
PRIVATE DRWY
BRAVERMAN DR
FRANK LN
LEAVESLY TRL
ERIN WAY
EVE WAY FRANK WAY
ROSIE WAY
COTTONWOOD AVE
BART WAY
PALM GLEN DR
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
SETH LN
ANNIE LN
PRIVATE DRW
Y
CLAUDIA LN
BILTEER DR
VERDE VISTA LN
CANOPY PARK LN
ROCHELLE AVE
LEILA LN
CLAUDIA AVE
GLEN BRAE TRL
KAREN LN
SETH WAY
RIVERWALK DR
EVE LN
BART LN
CONEJO RD
BILTEER CT
ROCHELLE LN
ROSIE LN
CHUBB
LN
PRIVATE DRWY
JI
M LN
PRIVATE DRWY
SAN REM
O
CT
C ONEJO PL
MAVIN DR
STAR MAGNOLIA LN
LITTLE LEAF LN
SAN REMO RD
WATERGUM TRL
DAY CREEK TRL
PR
VI ATE DRWY
MERRY BROOK TRL
PA
R
K CENTER
DR
PARK TERRACE DR
RIVER PARK DR
17 18
19 PRIVATE DRWY
N MAGNOLIA AVE
PRIVATE DRWY
BRAVERMAN DR
FRANK LN
LEAVESLY TRL
ERIN WAY
EVE WAY FRANK WAY
ROSIE WAY
COTTONWOOD AVE
BART WAY
PALM GLEN DR
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
SETH LN
ANNIE LN
PRIVATE DRW
Y
CLAUDIA LN
BILTEER DR
VERDE VISTA LN
CANOPY PARK LN
ROCHELLE AVE
LEILA LN
CLAUDIA AVE
GLEN BRAE TRL
KAREN LN
SETH WAY
RIVERWALK DR
EVE LN
BART LN
CONEJO RD
BILTEER CT
ROCHELLE LN
ROSIE LN
CHUBB
LN
PRIVATE DRWY
JI
M LN
PRIVATE DRWY
SAN REM
O
CT
C ONEJO PL
MAVIN DR
STAR MAGNOLIA LN
LITTLE LEAF LN
SAN REMO RD
WATERGUM TRL
DAY CREEK TRL
PR
VI ATE DRWY
MERRY BROOK TRL
PA
R
K CENTER
DR
PARK TERRACE DR
RIVER PARK DR
17 18
19 M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n _gis\Fig4.10-5.5.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
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[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio n ary Develo pm en t Sites
Eligible By-Right Develo pm en t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
At any specific location, the actual existing noise would depend upon not only the source noise level but also the nature of the path from the source to the sensitive receptor. Buildings, walls, dense vegetation, and other barriers would block the direct line of sight and reduce noise levels at the receptor. As an example, a first row of buildings would reduce traffic noise levels at receptors by 3 to 5 dB(A) behind those structures depending on the building-to-gap ratio. Large continuous structures can provide substantially greater attenuation of traffic noise. Additionally, due to the provision of common exterior use areas, multi-family residential land uses can generally provide greater shielding to these areas, thus providing exterior use areas that comply with the compatibility guidelines.
Any siting of new noise-sensitive land uses within a noise environment that already exceeds the normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion represents a potentially significant impact and would require a separate noise study through the development review process to determine the level of impacts and required mitigation. Noise Element Policy 2.1 would require that future development include noise control for exterior and interior living spaces of all new residential development. Section 8.0 of the Noise Element provides implementation measures that may be incorporated into a project to reduce noise levels. Additionally, as required by the California Code of Regulations (see Section 4.10.2.1), future ministerial and discretionary projects would be required to demonstrate that interior noise levels would be reduced to 45 dB(A) Ldn or less. However, absent a specific development proposal with site designs, the potential for shielding of exterior use areas cannot be known at this programmatic level of review. Therefore, due to the siting of new noisesensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result.
Site 19
Site 19 is off Park Center Drive, north of SR-52 and west of SR-67. Site 19 has the potential to be developed with 32 multi-family units. Site 19 is eligible for by-right development. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.5, Site 19 is located outside the 60 dB(A) Ldn noise contour. Noise levels would be less than the City’s normally acceptable noise standard, and impacts would be less than significant. Since noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn, no noise reduction measures would be required.
Sites 20A and 20B
Sites 20A and 20B are located west of SR-67 and north of SR-52, along Magnolia Avenue. Site 20A has the potential to be developed with 170 multi-family units, and Site 20B has the potential to be developed with 300 multi-family units. Additionally, Site 20B could include ground-floor retail uses.
As shown in Figure 4.10-5.6, future exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn at the eastern portion of the sites adjacent to Magnolia Avenue. As with Sites 17 and 18, due to the provision of common exterior use areas, multi-family residential land uses can generally provide greater shielding to these areas, thus providing exterior use areas that comply with the compatibility guidelines. However, absent a specific development proposal with site designs, the potential for shielding of exterior use areas cannot be known at this programmatic level of review. Therefore, due to the siting of new noise-sensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result.
FIGURE 4.10-5.6
Future Vehicle Traffic Noise Contours –
Sites 20A and 20B
PARK AVE
WOODSIDE AVE
MISSION GORGE RD
ALLEY
N M
AGNOLIA
AVE
WEST R
OUNDUP CIR
HARTLEY RD
PRIVATE RD
COTTONWOOD AVE
GRANADA ST
EAST ROUNDUP CIR
PRIVATE RD
VALLEJO ST
SOUTH ROUNDUP CIR
CORONADO
ST
CRAZY HORSE TRL
04TH ST
EDGEMOOR DR
01ST ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
RIDERW OOD TER
KALASHO PL
COW LN
PRIVATE RD
SONORA ST
PRIVATE RD
HORSESHOE LN
BRIDLE PATH
ABRAHAM WAY
PALOMA ST
STAGECOACH TRL
ALLEY
BUCK BO
A
RD TRL
PRIVATE RD
WILD HORSE TRL
WAGON WHEEL D
R
SIERRA ST
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
RIVERVIEW PKY
20B
20A
PARK AVE
WOODSIDE AVE
MISSION GORGE RD
ALLEY
N M
AGNOLIA
AVE
WEST R
OUNDUP CIR
HARTLEY RD
PRIVATE RD
COTTONWOOD AVE
GRANADA ST
EAST ROUNDUP CIR
PRIVATE RD
VALLEJO ST
SOUTH ROUNDUP CIR
CORONADO
ST
CRAZY HORSE TRL
04TH ST
EDGEMOOR DR
01ST ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
RIDERW OOD TER
KALASHO PL
COW LN
PRIVATE RD
SONORA ST
PRIVATE RD
HORSESHOE LN
BRIDLE PATH
ABRAHAM WAY
PALOMA ST
STAGECOACH TRL
ALLEY
BUCK BO
A
RD TRL
PRIVATE RD
WILD HORSE TRL
WAGON WHEEL D
R
SIERRA ST
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
RIVERVIEW PKY
20B
20A
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[
City of Santee Boundary
Discretionary Development Sites
Eligible By-Right Development Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Site 24
Site 24 is located at 9953 Buena Vista Avenue, north of SR-52 and west of SR-67. Site 24 has the potential to be developed with 105 multi-family units, and is eligible for by-right development. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.7, future exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn due to vehicle traffic on SR-52. It should be noted that SR-52 is elevated above Site 24 and includes a concrete masonry wall between the project site and SR-52. The noise contours due not take into account the difference in elevation or the shielding provided by the wall. Therefore, noise levels at Site 24 are less than represented in Figure 4.10-5.7. The measured noise levels at Site 24 were 56.7 and 65.2 dB(A) Leq (see Table 4.10-1). As with other identified sites with the potential to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn, due to the provision of common exterior use areas, multi-family residential land uses can generally provide greater shielding to these areas, thus providing exterior use areas that comply with the compatibility guidelines. However, absent a specific development proposal with site designs, the potential for shielding of exterior use areas cannot be known at this programmatic level of review.
Therefore, due to the siting of new noise-sensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result.
Site 25
Site 25 is located at 8801 Olive Lane, north of SR-52 and east of SR-67. Site 25 has the potential to be developed with 41 multi-family units. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.8, future exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn due to vehicle traffic on SR-52. It should be noted that SR-52 is elevated above Site 25. The noise contours do not take into account the difference in elevation, or shielding provided by buildings located between the site and SR-52. Therefore, noise levels at Site 25 are less than represented in Figure 4.10-5.8. Absent a specific development proposal with a detailed site plan and site specific noise modeling, the potential for exterior use areas to be designed to meet noise standards cannot be known at this programmatic level of review. Therefore, due to the siting of new noise-sensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result.
Sites 29 and 30
Site 29 is located at 7737 Mission Gorge Road, west of SR-52. Site 30 is located directly next to Site 29 at 8714 Starpine Drive. Site 29 has the potential to be developed with 64 multi-family units, and Site 30 has the potential to be developed with 28 multi-family units. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.9, future exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn at the northern half of Site 29 due to vehicle traffic on Mission Gorge Road. Noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn at the southern half of Site 29 and all of Site 30. Noise levels at Site 30 would be less than the City’s normally acceptable noise standard, and impacts would be less than significant. Since noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn, no noise reduction measures would be required for Site 30. However, future development at Site 29 could exceed exterior noise standards. Absent a specific development proposal with a detailed site plan and site-specific noise modeling, the potential for exterior use areas to be designed to meet noise standards cannot be known at this programmatic level of review.
Therefore, due to the siting of new noise-sensitive land uses in an area that may exceed normally acceptable land use compatibility criterion due to transportation noise sources, a significant impact would result with respect to Site 29.
FIGURE 4.10-5.7
Future Vehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Site 24
UV52
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N E L C A J O N
ASPENGLOW PL
PROSPECT AVE
BUENA VISTA AVE
CUYAMACA ST
KATIE LN
DAYBREAK LN
MISSION VEGA RD
DAWN CT
MISSION GREENS RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
SUM
MERCREST LN
HACIENDA RD
BRIGHTWOOD LN
PASEO DR
BRACS DR
TAMBERLY CT
HACIENDA RD
LOUIS LN
FIONA WAY
IAN WAY
ABLETTE CT
HUBBLES LN
BUENA
VALLEY DR
LIND VERN CT
AIRPORT VISTA RD
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
RHODES CT
KINGS TRL
BLUE BOY LN
STATE ROUTE 52 EB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB OFF RAMP
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
24 UV52
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N E L C A J O N
ASPENGLOW PL
PROSPECT AVE
BUENA VISTA AVE
CUYAMACA ST
KATIE LN
DAYBREAK LN
MISSION VEGA RD
DAWN CT
MISSION GREENS RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
SUM
MERCREST LN
HACIENDA RD
BRIGHTWOOD LN
PASEO DR
BRACS DR
TAMBERLY CT
HACIENDA RD
LOUIS LN
FIONA WAY
IAN WAY
ABLETTE CT
HUBBLES LN
BUENA
VALLEY DR
LIND VERN CT
AIRPORT VISTA RD
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
RHODES CT
KINGS TRL
BLUE BOY LN
STATE ROUTE 52 EB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB OFF RAMP
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
24 M:\JOBS5\9705\co mmo n_gis\Fig4.10-5.7.mxd 01/18/2022 bma 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Eligible By-Right Develo p men t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.8
Future Vehicle Traffic Noise Contours –
Site 25
UV52
C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N
PRYOR DR
DUANE DR
CUYAMACA ST
VIA ZAPADOR
PROSPECT AVE
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
BUENA VISTA AVE
MISSION GORGE RD
OLIVE LN
MARTEE LN
PRIVATE RD
OLIVE LN
HACIENDA RD
PASEO DR
MISSION GREENS RD
VIA ZAPADOR
HACIENDA RD
PHILLAR WAY
ARGENT ST
MAC COOL LN
AIRPORT VISTA RD
PRIVATE RD
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
PATHWAY ST
STATE ROUTE 52 EB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB OFF RAMP
WILLOW TER
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
25 UV52
C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N
PRYOR DR
DUANE DR
CUYAMACA ST
VIA ZAPADOR
PROSPECT AVE
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
BUENA VISTA AVE
MISSION GORGE RD
OLIVE LN
MARTEE LN
PRIVATE RD
OLIVE LN
HACIENDA RD
PASEO DR
MISSION GREENS RD
VIA ZAPADOR
HACIENDA RD
PHILLAR WAY
ARGENT ST
MAC COOL LN
AIRPORT VISTA RD
PRIVATE RD
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
PATHWAY ST
STATE ROUTE 52 EB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 WB OFF RAMP
WILLOW TER
STATE ROUTE 52 WB ON RAMP
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
25 M:\JOBS5\9705\common_gis\Fig4.10-5.8.mxd 6/6/2022 fmm 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City of Santee Boundary
Discretionary Development Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
FIGURE 4.10-5.9
Future V ehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 29 an d 30
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O S A N D I E G O
ROCKYRIDGE RD
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
PRIVATE RD
CARRIBEAN WAY
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE DRWY
VIA MONTISI
PRIVATE DRWY
MIRABELLE LN
BELLMONT PASS
RANCHO FANITA DR
BASSETT LN
ROLLING OAKS RD
CORAL RIDGE RD
AUBREY GLEN
VIA SOVANA
WREN ST
HIGHRIDGE RD
ROSEMOND LN
CLARE LN
DOVE ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVEHILL RD
PRIVATE
RD
VIA CORTONA
WOODPECKER WAY
HISER LN
OAKRIDGE RD
FERNRIDGE
RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
STELLA CT
CRESCENT
RIDGE RD
ARLY CT
SUNRIDGE DR
CROSSWAY CT
WISTFUL VISTA
PINERIDGE RD
SIMEON DR
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
STARPINE DR
RIDGECREST RD
BRITT PL
PRIVATE
RD
29 30
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O S A N D I E G O
ROCKYRIDGE RD
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
PRIVATE RD
CARRIBEAN WAY
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE DRWY
VIA MONTISI
PRIVATE DRWY
MIRABELLE LN
BELLMONT PASS
RANCHO FANITA DR
BASSETT LN
ROLLING OAKS RD
CORAL RIDGE RD
AUBREY GLEN
VIA SOVANA
WREN ST
HIGHRIDGE RD
ROSEMOND LN
CLARE LN
DOVE ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVEHILL RD
PRIVATE
RD
VIA CORTONA
WOODPECKER WAY
HISER LN
OAKRIDGE RD
FERNRIDGE
RD
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
STELLA CT
CRESCENT
RIDGE RD
ARLY CT
SUNRIDGE DR
CROSSWAY CT
WISTFUL VISTA
PINERIDGE RD
SIMEON DR
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
STARPINE DR
RIDGECREST RD
BRITT PL
PRIVATE
RD
29 30
M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n _gis\Fig4.10-5.9.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio n ary Develo pm en t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Site 35
Site 35 is located northwest of SR-67 and north of SR-52, adjacent to the termini of Mast Boulevard.
Mast Boulevard does not currently connect adjacent to the project site, but a connection is identified in the future year 2050 SANDAG traffic modeling. However, City Council adopted a policy in 2017 to not extend Mast Boulevard. Therefore, noise levels would be less than those identified in Figure 4.10-
5.10. Site 35 has the potential to be developed with 122 multi-family units, and would be eligible for by-right development. As shown in Figure 4.10-5.10, future noise levels are not projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn at Site 35. The future 65 dB(A) Ldn noise contour for the Mast Boulevard connection would lie within the roadway right-of-way. Noise levels would be less than the City’s normally acceptable noise standard, and impacts would be less than significant. Since noise levels would be less than 65 dB(A) Ldn, no noise reduction measures would be required. b. Stationary Noise
A significant impact would occur if implementation of the project resulted in the exposure of people to noise levels that violate the regulations contained in City’s Municipal Code, Title 5 Health and Safety, Chapter 5.04 Noise Abatement and Control. Stationary sources of noise include activities associated with a given land use. For example, noise sources from residential land uses would include vehicles arriving and departing, landscaping activities, and HVAC equipment, and noise sources from commercial land uses would include fast food restaurants, parking lots, truck loading/unloading activities, and HVAC equipment. Noise generated by residential or commercial uses is generally short-lived and intermittent, and are not a substantial source of noise. Potential noise conflicts could occur in mixed-use areas where residential uses are located in close proximity to commercial and retail uses.
Noise levels within the City are currently dominated by vehicle traffic on freeways and heavily traveled area roadways, and would continue to be the primary source of noise under project buildout.
Therefore, future noise levels from residential and commercial stationary sources throughout the City would not be expected to increase the hourly or daily average sound level with respect to current conditions. Future development of the Rezone Sites would include residential and mixed-use land uses that are not anticipated to be a significant source of stationary noise.
The City requires that noise from new stationary sources comply with the City’s Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance, which provides general noise regulations, prohibits disturbing, excessive or offensive noises, and places noise limitations on motorized equipment and loading and unloading operations. Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance requirements would reduce nuisances to sensitive land uses. The City Police or Code Enforcement Officer enforces the Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance, and violations are punishable by a fine for each day a violation occurs and may be subject to abatement by restraining order or injunction. Consequently, stationary-source noise from these types of proposed land uses would not substantially increase the noise environment, and impacts would be less than significant.
FIGURE 4.10-5.10
Future V ehicle Traffic No ise Co n to urs –
Site 35
UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
LOS RANCHITOS RD
R
A
M
S
G
AT
E
D
R
C
O
L
U
M
B
US
ST HILLCREEK RD MAST BLVD
RAMSGATE WAY
02ND ST
DONNER ST
DELPHI ST
HILLCREEK LN
KENESAW CT
N WOODSIDE AVE
HINSDALE ST
PRIVATE RD
35 UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
LOS RANCHITOS RD
R
A
M
S
G
AT
E
D
R
C
O
L
U
M
B
US
ST HILLCREEK RD MAST BLVD
RAMSGATE WAY
02ND ST
DONNER ST
DELPHI ST
HILLCREEK LN
KENESAW CT
N WOODSIDE AVE
HINSDALE ST
PRIVATE RD
35 M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n _gis\Fig4.10-5.10.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Discretio n ary Develo pm en t Sites
2050 Noise Contours with Project
60 CNEL
65 CNEL
70 CNEL
75 CNEL
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
c. Construction Noise
Future development implemented under the project could result in a temporary ambient noise increase due to construction activities. Construction noise typically occurs intermittently and varies depending upon the nature or phase of construction (e.g., demolition; land clearing, grading, and excavation; erection). Construction noise would be short term and would include noise from activities such as site preparation, truck hauling of material, pouring of concrete, and the use of power tools.
Noise would also be generated by construction equipment use, including earthmovers, material handlers, and portable generators, and could reach high noise levels for brief periods. Significant noise impacts may occur from operation of heavy earthmoving equipment and truck haul that would occur with construction of individual development projects. Implementation of the project anticipates an increase in development intensity.
As discussed in Section 4.10.2.2(b), the City’s Municipal Code Section 5.04.090 regulates noise associated with construction equipment and activities through time of day restrictions (e.g., days of the week and hours of operation), and requires that notice be given when construction equipment with a manufacturer’s noise rating of 85 dB(A) Lmax will operate at a specific location for 10 consecutive workdays. Future development at the Rezone Site would be subject to this standard.
As discussed in Section 4.10.4.3, hourly average noise levels would be approximately 83 dB(A) Leq at 50 feet from the center of construction activity when assessing three pieces of common construction equipment working simultaneously. Noise levels would vary depending on the nature of the construction activities including the duration of specific activities, the equipment involved, the location of the sensitive receivers, and the presence of intervening barriers. Using a construction equipment noise level of 83 dB(A) Leq at 50 feet, construction noise level contours for the sites that would have the potential to be developed ministerially were calculated. Construction contours are shown in Figures 4.10-6.1 through 4.10-6.6. As shown, construction noise levels would generally range from 65 to 75 dB(A) Leq near the project boundaries.
Construction of individual developments associated with potential future development at Rezone Sites would temporarily increase the ambient noise environment in the vicinity of each individual project. Because construction activities associated with any individual development may occur near noise-sensitive receptors and depending on the project type noise disturbances may occur for prolonged periods of time, construction noise impacts associated with potential future development at Rezone Sites are considered significant.
Although residences adjacent to the Rezone Sites would be exposed to construction noise levels that could be heard above ambient conditions, the exposure would be temporary. Both discretionary and ministerial project would be required to adhere to the time of day restrictions and notification requirements of Santee Municipal Code Section 5.04.090. However, construction activities associated with any individual development may occur near noise-sensitive receptors. Depending on the equipment list, time of day, phasing, and overall construction durations, noise disturbances may occur for prolonged periods of time or during the more sensitive nighttime hours. Therefore, construction noise impacts would be considered potentially significant.
FIGU RE 4.10-6.1
Co n structio n No ise Co n to urs –
Site 15
UV52
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
CARLTON
HILLS
BLVD
WILLOWGROVE AVE
OLIVE LN
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
HAZELDON DR
MAC COOL LN
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
TOWN CENTER PKY
15 UV52
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
CARLTON
HILLS
BLVD
WILLOWGROVE AVE
OLIVE LN
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
HAZELDON DR
MAC COOL LN
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
TOWN CENTER PKY
15 M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n _g is\Fig 4.10-6.1.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Elig ible By-Rig ht Develo pm en t Sites
Construction Noise Contours
60 dB(A) Leq
65 dB(A) Leq
70 dB(A) Leq
75 dB(A) Leq
FIGU RE 4.10-6.2
Co n structio n No ise Co n to urs –
Sites 16A an d 20B
PARK AVE
WEST ROUNDUP CIR
COTTONWOOD AVE
CHUBB LN
N MAGNOLIA AVE
SOUTH ROUNDUP CIR
CRAZY HORSE TRL
04TH ST
EDGEMOOR DR
01ST ST
PRIVATE R
PRIVATE RD D
COTTONWOOD AVE
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
TRANSIT WAY
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
WAGON WHEEL DR
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
20B
16A
PARK AVE
WEST ROUNDUP CIR
COTTONWOOD AVE
CHUBB LN
N MAGNOLIA AVE
SOUTH ROUNDUP CIR
CRAZY HORSE TRL
04TH ST
EDGEMOOR DR
01ST ST
PRIVATE R
PRIVATE RD D
COTTONWOOD AVE
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
TRANSIT WAY
RIVERVIEW PKY
ALLEY
PRIVATE RD
WAGON WHEEL DR
PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENT
20B
16A
M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n _g is\Fig 4.10-6.2.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f San tee Bo un dary
Elig ible By-Rig ht Develo pm en t Sites
Construction Noise Contours
60 dB(A) Leq
65 dB(A) Leq
70 dB(A) Leq
FIGUR E 4.10-6.3
Co nstructio n No ise Co nto urs –
Site s 17, 18 and 19
CONEJO RD
BILTEER DR
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
PRIVATE DRWY
N MAGNOLIA AVE
MAST BLVD
FRANK LN
LEAVESLY TRL
ERIN WAY
PRIVATE DRWY
EVE WAY FRANK WAY
COTTONWOOD AVE
ROSIE WAY
BART WAY
PALM GLEN DR
SETH LN
ANNIE LN
PRIVATE DRW
Y
CLAUDIA LN
VERDE VISTA
LN
CANOPY PARK LN
ROCHELLE AVE
LEILA LN
CLAUDIA AVE
GLEN BRAE TRL
KAREN LN
SETH WAY
RIVERWALK DR
CHUBB
LN
EVE LN
BART LN
BILTEER CT
ROCHELLE LN
ROSIE LN
PRIVATE DRWY
JIM LN
PRIVATE DRWY
SAN REM
O
CT
MAVIN
DR
C ONEJO PL
STAR MAGNOLIA LN
LITTLE LEAF LN
SAN REMO RD
WATERGUM TRL
PR
VI ATE DRWY
DAY CREEK TRL
MERRY BROOK TRL
PRIVATE DRWY
PA
R
K CENTER
D
R
PARK TERRACE DR
RIVER PARK DR
17 18
19 CONEJO RD
BILTEER DR
MAGNOLIA PARK DR
PRIVATE DRWY
N MAGNOLIA AVE
MAST BLVD
FRANK LN
LEAVESLY TRL
ERIN WAY
PRIVATE DRWY
EVE WAY FRANK WAY
COTTONWOOD AVE
ROSIE WAY
BART WAY
PALM GLEN DR
SETH LN
ANNIE LN
PRIVATE DRW
Y
CLAUDIA LN
VERDE VISTA
LN
CANOPY PARK LN
ROCHELLE AVE
LEILA LN
CLAUDIA AVE
GLEN BRAE TRL
KAREN LN
SETH WAY
RIVERWALK DR
CHUBB
LN
EVE LN
BART LN
BILTEER CT
ROCHELLE LN
ROSIE LN
PRIVATE DRWY
JIM LN
PRIVATE DRWY
SAN REM
O
CT
MAVIN
DR
C ONEJO PL
STAR MAGNOLIA LN
LITTLE LEAF LN
SAN REMO RD
WATERGUM TRL
PR
VI ATE DRWY
DAY CREEK TRL
MERRY BROOK TRL
PRIVATE DRWY
PA
R
K CENTER
D
R
PARK TERRACE DR
RIVER PARK DR
17 18
19 M:\JOBS5\9705\co m m o n_gis\Fig4.10-6.3.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f Sante e Bo und ary
Discre tio nary De ve lo pm e nt Site s
Eligible By -R igh t De ve lo pm e nt Site s
Construction Noise Contours
60 d B(A) Le q
65 d B(A) Le q
70 d B(A) Le q
75 d B(A) Le q
80 d B(A) Le q
FIGURE 4.10-6.4
Co n structio n No ise Co n to urs –
S ite 30
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O S A N D I E G O
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
CARRIBEAN WAY
MATTERHORN DR
PRIVATE DRWY
VIA MONTISI
PRIVATE DRWY
MIRABELLE LN
BELLMONT PASS
RANCHO FANITA DR
BASSETT LN
SUNRIDGE DR
ROLLING OAKS RD
CORAL RIDGE RD
AUBREY GLEN
WOODPECKER WAY
VIA SOVANA
WREN ST
ROCKYRIDGE RD
ROSEMOND LN
CLARE LN
DOVE ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVEHILL RD
VIA CORTONA
F
HISER LN
ERNRIDGE RD
PI N ERIDGE
RD
PRIVATE RD
SIMEON DR
AZURE VIEW
PRIVATE RD
STELLA CT
CRESCENT RIDGE RD
PRIVATE RD
ARLY CT
CROSSWAY CT
WISTFUL VISTA
PASEO BELLO
PRIVATE RD
STARPINE DR
RIDGECREST RD
BRITT PL
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE
RD
30 C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O S A N D I E G O
PRIVATE RD
MISSION GORGE RD
CARRIBEAN WAY
MATTERHORN DR
PRIVATE DRWY
VIA MONTISI
PRIVATE DRWY
MIRABELLE LN
BELLMONT PASS
RANCHO FANITA DR
BASSETT LN
SUNRIDGE DR
ROLLING OAKS RD
CORAL RIDGE RD
AUBREY GLEN
WOODPECKER WAY
VIA SOVANA
WREN ST
ROCKYRIDGE RD
ROSEMOND LN
CLARE LN
DOVE ST
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE RD
OLIVEHILL RD
VIA CORTONA
F
HISER LN
ERNRIDGE RD
PI N ERIDGE
RD
PRIVATE RD
SIMEON DR
AZURE VIEW
PRIVATE RD
STELLA CT
CRESCENT RIDGE RD
PRIVATE RD
ARLY CT
CROSSWAY CT
WISTFUL VISTA
PASEO BELLO
PRIVATE RD
STARPINE DR
RIDGECREST RD
BRITT PL
PRIVATE RD
PRIVATE
RD
30 M:\JOBS 5\9705\co m m o n _gis\Fig4.10-6.4.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f S an te e Bo un dary
Discre tio n ary De ve lo pm e n t S ite s
Construction Noise Contours
60 dB(A) Le q
65 dB(A) Le q
70 dB(A) Le q
75 dB(A) Le q
80 dB(A) Le q
FIGURE 4.10-6.5
Co n structio n No ise Co n to urs –
S ite 35
UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
LOS RANCHITOS RD
RA
M
S
G
AT
E
DR
HILLCREEK RD
C
O
L
U
M
B
US
ST
MAST BLVD
RAMSGATE WAY
02ND ST
DONNER ST
DELPHI ST
HILLCREEK LN
KENESAW CT
N WOODSIDE AVE
HINSDALE ST
PRIVATE RD
35 UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
LOS RANCHITOS RD
RA
M
S
G
AT
E
DR
HILLCREEK RD
C
O
L
U
M
B
US
ST
MAST BLVD
RAMSGATE WAY
02ND ST
DONNER ST
DELPHI ST
HILLCREEK LN
KENESAW CT
N WOODSIDE AVE
HINSDALE ST
PRIVATE RD
35 M:\JOBS 5\9705\co m m o n _gis\Fig4.10-6.5.m xd 01/18/2022 bm a 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
[
City o f S an te e Bo un dary
Discre tio n ary De ve lo pm e n t S ite s
Construction Noise Contours
60 dB(A) Le q
65 dB(A) Le q
70 dB(A) Le q
FIGURE 4.10-6.6
Constr u ction Noise Contou r s –
Graves Avenu e Sites
UV52
UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N E L C A J O N
TETON DR
N MAGNOLIA AVE
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
PROSPECT AVE
STATE ROUTE 67 RAMP
PEPPER DR
GRAVES
AV
E
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
STATE ROUTE 67 RAMP
KITTY LN
PRIVATE DRWY
KENNEY ST
ABLETTE RD
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
MAGNOLIA AVE
UV
LANTERN CREST WAY
52 UV67
S . D . C O U N T Y S . D . C O U N T Y
C I T Y O F C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N E L C A J O N
TETON DR
N MAGNOLIA AVE
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
PROSPECT AVE
STATE ROUTE 67 RAMP
PEPPER DR
GRAVES
AV
E
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
STATE ROUTE 67 RAMP
KITTY LN
PRIVATE DRWY
KENNEY ST
ABLETTE RD
STATE ROUTE 52 EB OFF RAMP
MAGNOLIA AVE
LANTERN CREST WAY
M:\JOBS5\9705\common_g is\Fig 4.10-6.6.mxd 01/18/2022 bma 0 Feet 300
Image source: Nearmap (flown September 2021)
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City of Santee Bou ndar y
Graves Avenu e Rezone Sites
Construction Noise Contours
60 dB(A) Leq
65 dB(A) Leq
70 dB(A) Leq
75 dB(A) Leq
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.10.5.2 Significance of Impacts
a. Vehicle Traffic Noise
Increase in Ambient Noise
Buildout of the project would result in a significant noise increase over existing ambient noise levels at nine of the analyzed roadway segments. The Noise Element contains Policies 2.2 and 2.3 that requires new development to mitigate the noise impact to existing uses resulting from new development. Possible noise-reduction measures would include retrofitting older homes with new window and door components with higher sound transmission class (STC) ratings. However, for existing uses, it cannot be determined whether the existing structures contain adequate attenuation to reduce interior noise to the 45 dB(A) Ldn standard nor what measures would be required to retrofit these structures. In addition, there is no mechanism in place for implementing such a retrofit. Because the significant noise impacts are to existing homes in an already urbanized area, there is no feasible mitigation. Thus, impacts to existing sensitive land uses due to the increase in ambient noise levels associated with buildout of the project would remain significant and unmitigated (Impact NOS-1).
Land Use Compatibility
As discussed, exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 65 dB(A) Ldn at the following Rezone Sites:
Sites 1 through 10, Sites 17 and 18, Sites 20A and 20B, Site 24, Site 25, and Site 29. Impacts to sensitive receivers from exterior noise levels from vehicle traffic would be significant (Impact NOS-2).
Regarding interior noise, as required by the CCRs (see Section 4.10.2.1), future ministerial and discretionary projects would be required to demonstrate that interior noise levels would be reduced to 45 dB(A) Ldn or less. Therefore, vehicle traffic noise affecting building interiors would be less than significant.
b. Stationary Noise
The City requires that noise from new stationary sources comply with the requirements of the City’s Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance, which provides general noise regulations, prohibits disturbing, excessive or offensive noises, and places noise limitations on motorized equipment and loading and unloading operations. Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance requirements would reduce nuisances to sensitive land uses. With enforcement of the Noise Abatement and Control Ordinance, noise impacts associated with stationary sources of noise would be less than significant. c. Construction Noise
Construction activities associated with any individual development may occur near noise-sensitive receptors and noise disturbances may occur. Without project-specific information to evaluate potential construction noise impacts and specific distances to sensitive receptors, impacts are considered significant at this programmatic level of review (Impact NOS-3).
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.10.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Mitigation is proposed for implementation of both discretionary and by-right development projects.
Mitigation would either be applied during a future discretionary review or for by-right development, would be applied as a requirement of the City’s objective design and performance standards adopted as part of the project. Future development of Rezone Sites would require implementation of the following mitigation framework:
MM-NOS-1: Applications for future development, where the City has determined a potential for land use compatibility impacts related to vehicle traffic, shall be required to comply with the following mitigation measure:
Prior to the issuance of a permit to develop at the Rezone Sites, the City shall assess whether proposed noise-sensitive receivers or associated noise-sensitive exterior use areas would be subject to transportation noise levels that potentially conflict with policies established in the City’s General Plan. Based on the analysis herein, the following sites are anticipated to require implementation of this measure: Sites 1 through 10, Sites 17 and 18, Sites 20A and 20B, Site 24, Site 25, and Site 29. Where noise levels would potentially conflict with City policies, the City shall require preparation of a noise technical analysis by a qualified professional that demonstrates (1) noise levels would not exceed the City’s General Plan Noise Element compatibility guidelines, or (2) noise levels which already exceed the levels considered compatible for that use are not increased by 3 dB or more. In lieu of detailed analysis, the City will accept information demonstrating that noise reduction techniques have been incorporated that would reduce noise levels at exterior use areas consistent with City standards Noise reduction techniques may include site design (including building orientation) that provides noise barriers free of gaps and obstructs line-of-sight between the source and receiver, and has a weight of at least 2 pounds per square foot, or other noise reduction technique as applicable.
The following mitigation measure would address potentially significant impacts related to construction noise associated with development within the Rezone Sites.
MM-NOS-2: The City shall review applications for future development to determine applicability of a Construction Noise Best Management Plan. An applicant may provide sitespecific noise generation information demonstrating that construction activities will not exceed 75 dB at the nearest sensitive receptor. If this site-specific information is not provided, a construction best management plan shall be required when the construction site is located within 150 feet of a sensitive receptor. The criteria of 150 feet is provided as a screening tool for use by the City, based on an average construction noise level of 83 dB, attenuating to 75 dB at 150 feet.
Construction Noise Best Management Practice Plan
Where applicable based on the criteria provided above, the City shall require preparation and implementation of a best management practice plan that
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
demonstrates how noise levels would be minimized to comply with the time of day restrictions and notification requirements of Santee Municipal Code Section 5.04.090.
Noise reduction measures can include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Construction equipment with a manufacturer’s noise rating of 85 dB(A) Lmax or greater may only operate at a specific location for 10 consecutive workdays. If work involving such equipment would involve more than 10 consecutive workdays, a notice must be provided to all property owners and residents within 300 feet of the site no later than 10 days before the start of construction. The notice must be approved by the City and describe the proposed project and the expected duration of work and provide a point of contact to resolve noise complaints.
2. Idling times for noise-generating equipment used in demolition, construction, site preparation, and related activities shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes.
3. Demolition, construction, site preparation, and related activities within 100 feet from the edge of properties with existing, occupied noise-sensitive uses shall incorporate all feasible strategies to reduce noise exposure for noise-sensitive uses, including:
a. Provide written notice to applicable noise-sensitive land uses at least two weeks prior to the start of each construction phase of the construction schedule;
b. Ensure that construction equipment is properly maintained and equipped with noise control components, such as mufflers, in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications;
c. Re-route construction equipment away from adjacent noise-sensitive uses; d. Locate noisy construction equipment away from surrounding noise-sensitive uses;
e. Use sound aprons or temporary noise enclosures around noise-generating equipment;
f. Position storage of waste materials, earth, and other supplies in a manner that will function as a noise barrier for surrounding noise-sensitive uses; g. Use the quietest practical type of equipment;
h. Use electric powered equipment instead of diesel or gasoline engine powered equipment;
i. Use shrouding or shielding and intake and exhaust silencers/mufflers; and
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
j. Other effective and feasible strategies to reduce construction noise exposure for surrounding noise-sensitive uses.
4. For construction of buildings that require the installation of piles, an alternative to installation of piles by hammering shall be used where sensitive receptors are located within 150 feet. This could include the use of augured holes for cast-inplace piles, installation through vibration or hydraulic insertion, or another lownoise technique.
4.10.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
a. Vehicle Traffic Noise
Increase in Ambient Noise
Impacts to existing sensitive land uses due to the increase in ambient noise levels associated with buildout of the Rezone Sites would remain significant and unmitigated.
Land Use Compatibility
With implementation of MM-NOS-1, and implementation of the General Plan policies and implementation measures listed above, impacts from transportation noise sources would be reduced less than significant.
b. Stationary Noise
Impacts associated with stationary noise would be less than significant. No mitigation is required, c. Construction Noise
With implementation of MM-NOS-2, impacts associated with construction noise would be reduced to less than significant.
4.10.6 Issue 2: Groundborne Noise and Vibration
Would the project result in exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration of groundborne noise levels?
4.10.6.1 Impact Analysis
Construction activities may include demolition of existing structures, site preparation work, excavation of parking and subfloors, foundation work, and building construction. Demolition for an individual site may last several weeks to months and may produce substantial vibration. Excavation for underground levels could also occur on some development sites, and vibratory pile driving could be used to stabilize the walls of excavated areas. Piles or drilled caissons may also be used to support building foundations. The effects of ground vibration may be imperceptible at the lowest levels, low rumbling sounds and detectable vibrations at moderate levels, and damage to nearby structures at
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
the highest levels. Vibration perception would occur at structures, as people do not perceive vibrations without vibrating structures.
Human reaction to vibration is dependent on the environment the receiver is in as well as individual sensitivity. For example, vibration outdoors is rarely noticeable and generally not considered annoying. Typically, humans must be inside a structure for vibrations to become noticeable and/or annoying. Based on several federal studies, the threshold of perception is 0.035 in/sec PPV, with 0.24 in/sec PPV being a distinctly perceptible (Caltrans 2013b). Neither cosmetic nor structural damage of buildings occurs at levels below 0.1 in/sec PPV.
As with any type of construction, vibration levels during any phase may at times be perceptible.
However, non-pile driving or foundation work construction phases that have the highest potential of producing vibration (such as jackhammering and other high power tools) would be intermittent and would only occur for short periods of time for any individual development site. By use of administrative controls, such as scheduling construction activities with the highest potential to produce perceptible vibration to hours with least potential to affect nearby properties as required by Municipal Code Section 5.04.090, perceptible vibration can be kept to a minimum and as such would result in a less than significant impact with respect to perception.
Pile driving has the potential to generate the highest groundborne vibration levels and is the primary concern for structural damage when it occurs within close proximity of structures. Vibration generated by construction equipment has the potential to be substantial, since it has the potential to exceed the FTA criteria for architectural damage (FTA 2018). Construction details and equipment for future project-level development is not known at this time. Therefore, construction vibration impacts would be considered potentially significant.
4.10.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Construction details, locations, and equipment for future project-level developments under the project are not known at this time but may cause vibration impacts. Impacts related to vibration associated with future development within the Rezone Sites would be potentially significant (Impact NOS-3).
4.10.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Mitigation is proposed for implementation of both discretionary and by-right development projects.
Mitigation would be either be applied during a future discretionary review or for by-right development, would be applied as a requirement of the City’s objective design and performance standards adopted as part of the project. Future development of Rezone Sites would require implementation of the following mitigation framework:
MM-NOS-3: Applications for future development, where the City has determined a potential for vibration impacts in relation to sensitive receptors, shall be required to comply with the following mitigation measure:
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Prior to the issuance of a permit to develop at the Rezone Sites, the City shall determine whether the construction process will require equipment or activities that may result in vibration, such as pile driving. For projects requiring pile driving during construction within 135 feet of fragile structures, such as historical resources, 100 feet of non-engineered timber and masonry buildings (e.g., most residential buildings), or within 75 feet of engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster); or a vibratory roller within 25 feet of any structure, the project applicant shall prepare a noise and vibration analysis to assess and mitigate potential noise and vibration impacts related to these activities. These distances are based on reference vibration levels generated by pile drivers and vibratory rollers and standard vibration propagation rates as published by the Federal Transit Administration Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018). This noise and vibration analysis shall be conducted by a qualified and experienced acoustical consultant or engineer. The vibration levels shall not exceed Federal Transit Administration architectural damage thresholds (e.g.,
0.12 inches per second [in/sec] peak particle velocity [PPV] for fragile or historical resources, 0.2 in/sec PPV for non-engineered timber and masonry buildings, and
0.3 in/sec PPV for engineered concrete and masonry). If vibration levels would exceed this threshold, alternative uses such as drilling piles as opposed to pile driving, and static rollers as opposed to vibratory rollers, shall be used. If necessary, construction vibration monitoring shall be conducted to ensure vibration thresholds are not exceeded.
4.10.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
Implementation of the controls outlined in MM-NOS-3 would ensure future development with the potential to generate substantial vibration implement a plan to ensure vibration thresholds are not exceeded during construction. With implementation of MM-NOS-3, Impact NOS-4 related to groundborne vibration would be reduced to less than significant.
4.10.7 Issue 3: Airport Noise
Would the project be 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, and expose people residing or working in the area to excessive noise levels?
4.10.7.1 Impact Analysis
As discussed in Section 4.10.1.2, Gillespie Field Airport and MCAS Miramar are located in the vicinity of the City. Gillespie Field is located outside the City limits, within the adjacent City of El Cajon, and lands adjacent to the western boundary of the northern portion of the City are part of MCAS Miramar. Figure 4.10-3 shows the Gillespie Field and MCAS Miramar noise contours. As shown, the Rezone Sites are located outside the 65 CNEL aircraft noise contours. Therefore, the project would not expose people to significant aircraft noise levels. Impacts would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.10 Noise
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.10.7.2 Significance of Impacts
No portions of the Rezone Sites are within the 65 CNEL noise contours of any airport. Implementation of the project would not expose noise-sensitive land uses to incompatible levels of aircraft noise.
4.10.7.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.10.7.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.11 Population/Housing
This section analyzes potential impacts associated with population and housing that could result from implementation of the City of Santee (City) 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project). The analysis focuses on growth in population directly and indirectly related to buildout of future development of sites detailed in Table 3-2. The sites include 25 potential rezone housing sites and the two sites located on Graves Avenue, collectively referred to as the Rezone Sites. This section is based on data available from the California Department of Finance, San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), and the Santee General Plan Housing Element.
4.11.1 Existing Conditions
4.11.1.1 Regional Setting
SANDAG projects the region’s population will grow by nearly one million people by 2050. This forecast is consistent with previous expectations although future growth rates have been reduced due to increased domestic migration out of the region. The growth in population will drive job growth and housing demand within the region – adding nearly 500,000 jobs and more than 330,000 housing units by 2050. This forecast represents a continuing trend in the San Diego region to provide more housing and job opportunities in the existing urbanized areas of the region. a. Population
The population growth rate for the San Diego region (i.e., County of San Diego) between 2016 and 2050 is shown in Table 4.11-1. The region’s anticipated (2025) population of approximately 3.5 million is expected to increase 13.2 percent by 2050.
As shown in Table 4.11-1, the percent change in population anticipated for the City would be less than the regional trend.
Table 4.11-1
Regional and Local Population Growth
Year
County of San Diego City of Santee
Total
Population
Population
Increase
Percent
Change1 Population
Population
Increase
Percent
Change1
2025 3,470,838 -- 58,358 --
2035 3,620,329 149,491 61,897 3,539
2050 3,746,054 125,725 13.2% 63,070 1,173 11.8%
1 Change from 2025-2050.
SOURCE: SANDAG Series 14: Regional Growth Forecast (SANDAG 2021a).
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
b. Housing
As shown in Table 4.11-1, the region needs to plan for an 13.2 percent increase in population; the City needs to plan for an 11.8 percent increase in population. As shown in Table 4.11-2, total housing units forecasted through the year 2050 would accommodate the anticipated population growth.
Table 4.11-2
Regional and Local Housing
Year
San Diego Region City of Santee
Total
Housing Units
Population
Increase
Percent
Change1
Total
Housing Units
Population
Increase
Percent
Change1
2025 1,288,207 -- 21,683 --
2035 1,409,853 24,064
2050 1,471,286 23.6% 24,611 19.9%
1 Change from 2025-2050.
SOURCE: SANDAG Series 14: Regional Growth Forecast (SANDAG 2021a).
4.11.2 Regulatory Framework
4.11.2.1 State
a. Senate Bill 375 and Assembly Bill 1233
Senate Bill (SB) 375, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act, was approved in 2008.
SB 375 focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as discussed further in Section 4.6.2. As a part of this effort, this act requires that regional housing needs be addressed in conjunction with regional transportation in order to integrate housing, land use, and transportation planning together.
In the San Diego region, this unified regional planning effort is completed by SANDAG via San Diego Forward. SB 375 also requires the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) be completed every eight years and, if a jurisdiction does not meet this requirement, penalties may be incurred. b. Regional Housing Needs Assessment
To respond to state population and household growth, and to ensure the availability of decent affordable housing for all income groups, the state enacted a law that requires SANDAG and other councils of governments to periodically distribute the state identified housing need for their regions.
As discussed in Section 3.2, local jurisdictions are required by state law (Government Code Section 65580 et seq.) to plan for their fair share of projected housing reconstruction needs in their region over a specified planning period. Housing unit construction goals are set by the State Department of Housing and Community Development and allocated to cities through regional planning agencies.
Housing and Community Development is responsible for determining this regional need, initiating the process by which each region must then distribute their share of statewide need to all jurisdictions within its region.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
The City has recently updated their Housing Element for an eight-year planning period spanning 2021 through 2029 (6th Cycle Housing Element Update; 2021-2029 Housing Element). The City’s RHNA allocation for the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update is a total of 1,219 units of total new construction, allocated by income level categories as follows:
• Extremely Low Income: 203 units (17 percent of total) • Very Low Income: 203 units (17 percent of total)
• Low Income: 200 units (16 percent of total)
• Moderate Income: 188 units (15 percent of total)
• Above-Moderate Income: 425 units (35 percent of total) The 2021-2029 Housing Element includes Programs 9 and 10, which require the adoption of rezones to allow the City to accommodate the required housing.
4.11.2.2 Regional
a. San Diego Forward
San Diego Forward (SANDAG 2021b), adopted by the SANDAG Board of Directors on December 10, 2021, is a comprehensive regional planning document that sets the vision for the future of the San Diego region and includes various planning document components to guide future improvements to meet that vision. The Regional Plan is updated every four years and combines three planning documents that SANDAG must complete per state and federal laws: The Regional Transportation Plan, Sustainable Communities Strategy, and Regional Comprehensive Plan. In addition, San Diego Forward addresses regional growth and housing needs utilizing regional growth forecast and the RHNA.
4.11.2.3 Local
a. General Plan
Housing Element
The City’s General Plan, Housing Element, adopted on July 14, 2021, is designed to provide the City with a coordinated and comprehensive strategy for promoting the production of safe, decent, and affordable housing within the community. The Housing Element is an eight-year plan for the 2021- 2029 period. State law requires housing elements to be updated periodically to reflect a community’s changing housing needs. A critical measure of compliance with the state Housing Element law is the ability of a jurisdiction to accommodate its share of the regional housing needs – RHNA. For the San Diego region, the regional growth projected by the state was for the period between June 30, 2020 and April 15, 2029.
4.11.3 Significance Determination Thresholds
Consistent with the CEQA Guidelines, impacts related to population/housing would be significant if the project would:
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
1) Threshold 1: 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).
2) Threshold 2: Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
4.11.4 Methodology
Population and housing data was obtained from the SANDAG Final Series 14 2016 – 2050 Regional Growth Forecast (SANDAG 2021a). This information was compared to the forecasted growth under the project to determine the change in population and housing as a result of the project. To determine if this change was significant, the analysis then assesses if the potential population and housing change would result in physical environmental effects related to the area not being capable of supporting such growth or if the project would displace housing in a manner that would require replacement housing elsewhere.
4.11.5 Issue 1: Induce Unplanned Population Growth
Would the project 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)?
4.11.5.1 Impact Analysis
The project would result in the adoption of rezones required to implement the 6th Cycle Housing Element as described in Table 3-2. SANDAG has allocated the City its share of the regional housing need for the 2021-2029 RHNA period based on a number of factors, including recent growth trends, income distribution, and capacity for future growth. The proposed rezoning would result in the potential future construction of up to 1,945 residential units which more than accommodates the City’s RHNA allocation of 1,219 units. Rezones beyond the 1,219 RHNA allocation have been proposed to provide for flexibility for decisionmakers to adopt all or a portion of the proposed rezones. The additional rezones would also provide a buffer should the City’s RHNA allocation increase the future.
The additional rezones provide capacity for projected growth in the region. Considering the rate of growth and barriers to housing development, the additional capacity would not induce unplanned population growth in the region but would provide additional opportunities to achieve buildout of required RHNA allocation. As shown in Table 4.11-1, the region needs to plan for a 13.2 percent increase in population while the City needs to plan for an 11.8 percent increase in population. The project would facilitate land use changes in the City that would allow the City and region to achieve their housing goals. The project would further implement SANDAG’s vision and goals by placing higher density in areas most able to support residential growth, including existing infrastructure and access to transit and would therefore be consistent with the RTP/SCS. State requirements to allow for ministerial approvals of certain housing projects that include an affordable component, which would facilitate and encourage construction of housing in the City. The project would not induce substantial unplanned population growth as all rezones are located within existing developed areas
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
with access to services, roadways, and utilities. Therefore, the project would not induce unplanned population growth, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.11.5.2 Significance of Impacts
The project would not induce substantial unplanned population growth because all rezones are located within existing developed areas with access to services, roadways, and utilities. Furthermore, the purpose of the project is to facilitate implementation of the City’s adopted Housing Element.
Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
4.11.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.11.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.11.6 Issue 2: Displace People or Housing
Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
4.11.6.2 Impact Analysis
Figures 2-4a through 2-4c show the existing zoning districts for the Rezone Sites. Sites 1 through 12, 24, and 30 each contain a single-family residence. Future redevelopment within Rezone Sites with existing residential land uses would have the potential to displace some people and housing through demolition of existing residential structures. However, for each home that would be removed, more housing units would be provided in its place which would accommodate more people and ensure no net loss of housing. The analysis provided in this PEIR evaluates the potential physical impacts of future housing construction and identifies a mitigation framework that would be applied to ensure impacts are minimized to the greatest extent feasible. Impacts related to displacement of people and housing would be less than significant.
4.11.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Future redevelopment within Rezone Sites that support residential land uses would have the potential to displace some people and housing through demolition of existing residential structures.
However, for each home that would be removed, more housing units would be provided in its place which would accommodate more people and ensure no net loss of housing. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.11 Population/Housing
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.11.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.11.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.12 Public Services and Recreation
This section analyzes potential impacts to public services and recreation that could result from buildout allowed by the City of Santee (City) 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project).
The sites included in the analysis are detailed in Table 3-2 and include 25 potential rezone housing sites and the two sites located on Graves Avenue, collectively referred to as the Rezone Sites. Public services and facilities are those functions that serve residents, businesses, and community members on a community-wide basis. These functions include fire protection and emergency medical services, police protection, public schools, libraries, and parks and recreation.
4.12.1 Existing Conditions
4.12.1.1 Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services The Santee Fire Department (SFD) provides fire and paramedic service in the City. The SFD is a fullservice department, providing structural fire suppression, wildland fire suppression, medical first response, advanced life support, paramedic ambulance service, search and rescue operations, hazardous materials operations, public education programs, emergency preparedness planning, and fire code inspection services and permits (City of Santee 2021). The department currently maintains two stations, one at 8950 Cottonwood Avenue (Station 4) and another at 9130 Carlton Oaks Drive (Station 5) (Figure 4.12-1). The Cottonwood Avenue station has one battalion chief’s vehicle and four response units: one fire engine, one fire truck, one brush engine, and one paramedic ambulance with a minimum daily staffing of nine personnel distributed as follows:
• Fire Engine 4 is staffed with one captain, one engineer, and one firefighter-paramedic. • Fire Truck 4 is staffed with one captain, one engineer, and one firefighter-paramedic. • Brush Engine 4 is cross-staffed with personnel from Fire Truck 4. This crew cross-staffs the Truck and Brush units and responds in the appropriate apparatus based on the nature of the alarm.
• Paramedic Ambulance 4 is staffed with two firefighter-paramedics. • Battalion Vehicle 2 is staffed with one battalion chief.
Station 4 also houses two reserve fire engines and two reserve ambulances.
The Carlton Oaks Drive station (Station 5) currently has three response units: two fire engines and one paramedic ambulance with a minimum daily staffing of eight personnel, distributed as follows:
• Fire Engine 5 is staffed with one captain, one engineer, and one firefighter-paramedic. • Fire Engine 205 is staffed with one captain, one engineer, and one firefighter-paramedic. • Paramedic Ambulance 5 is staffed with two firefighter-paramedics.
FIGURE 4.12-1
Fire Protection Services
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24 30
29 25
15 16B
16A 20A
20B
17 18
19 35
12 11
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S A N D I E G O
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MISSION GORGE RD
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MAGNOLIA
AVE
WOODSIDE AVE
FANITA DR
MAST BLVD
PROSPECT AVE
EL NOPAL
MESA RD
CARLTON OAKS DR
N M
AGN
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P
EBBLE BEACH
DR
HALBERNS
BLVD
LAKEC
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ARLTON
HILLS BLV
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FANI
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Santee Fire Station 5
Santee
Fire
Station 4
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29 25
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S . D . C O U N T Y
C I T Y O F
S A N D I E G O
C I T Y O F
E L C A J O N
MISSION GORGE RD
N
MAGNOLIA
AVE
WOODSIDE AVE
FANITA DR
MAST BLVD
PROSPECT AVE
EL NOPAL
MESA RD
CARLTON OAKS DR
N M
AGN
OLIA AVE
P
EBBLE BEACH
DR
HALBERNS
BLVD
LAKEC
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HILLS BLV
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Santee Fire Station 5
Santee
Fire
Station 4
M:\JOBS5\9705\common_gis\Fig4.12-1_Fire.mxd 6/6/2022 fmm 0 Miles 1 [
City of Santee Boundary
Discretionary Development Sites
Eligible By-Right Development Sites
Graves Avenue Rezone Sites
") Fire Stations
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Emergency call volumes related to typical projects, such as new residential developments, can be estimated based on the historical per capita call volume from a particular fire jurisdiction. In 2019, the City’s Fire and Life Safety Department documented 5,791 total incidents generated by a Citywide total population of approximately 58,000 persons. The City’s per capita annual call volume is approximately 100 calls per 1,000 persons.
The City’s General Plan states the goal is to provide an average maximum initial response time of no more than 6 minutes for fire, rescue and emergency medical services with an average maximum response time of no more than 10 minutes for supporting paramedic transport units 90 percent of the time (City of Santee 2003). The average SFD response times (from unit notification until unit arrives on scene, averaged) for emergency and non-emergency calls are 6 minutes and 18 seconds for fire and explosions; 5 minutes and 43 seconds for rescue and emergency medical; and 6 minutes and 40 seconds for service and non-emergency calls.
The City has a signed automatic aid agreement on first alarm or greater fires with adjacent and nearby fire departments including Alpine Fire Protection District, East County Fire Protection District, El Cajon Fire Department, Lakeside Fire Protection District, La Mesa Fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire Department, San Miguel Fire Protection District, and the SFD. Each participating member has a mutual aid agreement with the others and participate in the Unified San Diego County Emergency Services Organization to provide paramedic and fire protection services in the event that additional firefighting units are required.
4.12.1.2 Police Protection Services
Police protection in the City is provided by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department under a contractual agreement with the City. The Santee Sheriff’s substation is located at 8811 Cuyamaca Street (Figure 4.12-2). The substation has over 60 employees providing patrol and traffic services, criminal investigations, juvenile intervention, crime analysis, and crime prevention education. A Sheriff’s Station storefront is operated in the Santee Town Center near the San Diego Trolley line and San Diego Christian College. The station includes an active volunteer unit that provides community services including vacation checks and regular visits to homebound citizens (County of San Diego Sheriff’s Department 2021).
The City has contracted with the Sheriff’s Department for 14 enforcement units during each 24-hour period. These units are divided into two beats, one for law enforcement and another for traffic enforcement. There are a total of 54 sworn law enforcement officers, and other personnel including retired senior volunteers and reserve officers. The ratio of officers to population is one officer per 1,000 residents (City of Santee 2003).
FIGURE 4.12-2
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The Santee Sheriff’s Station typically has quicker response times than the County of San Diego (County) average. The average response time for non-priority calls within the unincorporated County was approximately 30 minutes while the average response time for priority calls within the unincorporated area was approximately 16 minutes. Response times vary greatly between command areas. Typically, response times in urbanized or built-out areas are lower than in areas that are rural and characterized by spaced or scattered development patterns (County of San Diego 2011). In contrast, the average priority call response time for general law enforcement within the City is 9 minutes for priority 1 to 2 calls and 20 minutes for priority 3 to 7 calls. Service calls are assigned a priority based on the nature of the incident and the level of urgency.
The crime rate in the City is lower than San Diego County as a whole. In 2017, total crimes reported in the City were equivalent to 17.88 per 1,000 persons in the population, while those reported in the County were equivalent to 20.5 crimes per 1,000 persons. For violent crimes, the City reported 1.7 per 1,000 persons, while the County as a whole reported 3.7 per 1,000 persons. For property crimes,
13.8 per 1,000 persons were reported in the City, while 19.1 per 1,000 persons were reported in the County (SANDAG 2020).
4.12.1.3 Schools
a. Elementary Schools
The Santee School District (SSD) serves the Santee area for grades kindergarten through eighth grade (K-8) and has ten schools, nine of which are within the City (Figure 4.12-3). Existing (K-8) schools serving the City are Cajon Park, Carlton Hills, Carlton Oaks, Chet F. Harritt STEAM Elementary, Hill Creek Elementary, PRIDE Academy at Prospect Avenue, Rio Seco Elementary, and Sycamore Canyon. In addition, SSD also has the Alternative School, which is an alternative education school to assist children being home-schooled and operates a tenth elementary school, Pepper Drive Elementary, which is located outside the City. The estimated enrollment for the SSD for the 2019- 2020 academic year was 6,792 students, with an enrollment capacity of 7,982 (Education Data Partnership 2021).
b. High School
The Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) serves the Santee area for grades 9 through 12.
The high school district has 19 schools, 2 of which are in Santee: West Hills High School on Mast Boulevard near Medina Drive; and Santana High School on Magnolia Avenue between Mast Boulevard and Second Street (see Figure 4.12-3). The estimated enrollment for the GUHSD for the 2019-2020 academic year was 21,720 students, with an enrollment capacity of a projected 32,607 (Education Data Partnership 2021).
4.12.1.4 Library Services
Currently, library service in the City is provided by the San Diego County Library (SDCL) system. The Santee branch library is located on Carlton Hills Boulevard (Figure 4.12-4). There are also libraries nearby in the communities of Lakeside, San Carlos, and El Cajon (City of Santee 2003).
FIGURE 4.12-3
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FIGURE 4.12-4
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In addition to these branches, the City of San Diego Public Library operates a Bookmobile that is used primarily to bring books to immobile people, educate elementary school children, and provide access to books when a particular branch is closed for some reason. Several cities within the County are also part of a countywide cooperative relationship known as the Serra Cooperative Library System. This cooperative library system allows residents of the various cities and the County of San Diego to use facilities of other public libraries in the same area. For example, a resident of the City of Santee could use the City of San Diego Main Library or any branch library facilities through the Serra Cooperative Library System, and a resident of the City of San Diego could use the library facilities of the City of Santee. This system expands the accessibility of public library facilities to communities that are adjacent to each other (City of Santee 2003).
The Friends of Santee Library, a non-profit organization working out of the SDCL, operates a used bookstore in which all proceeds benefit the Santee branch library programs, events, and the New Library Building Fund. The Friends of Santee Library created the New Library Building Fund in response to demand for a new, larger library in the City.
The SDCL service ratio goal is 0.5 square feet of library floor space for each resident averaged throughout the service area. However, this is a very ambitious goal and most of the County libraries do not meet the goal. Based on the City’s current population of 64,551, a total of 32,275 square feet of library space would be required to achieve the County’s goal. Thus, the 7,500 square feet of library space contained within the Santee Library would achieve 23 percent of the goal. Although the goal is not met, library service within the City is considered to be adequate due to the additional programs mentioned above.
4.12.1.5 Open Space and Recreational Facilities
The City offers a variety of parks and recreational services within the City’s boundary. A wide range of active and passive public recreation opportunities are available in a network of regional, community, neighborhood, and mini-parks, which differ based on size, available facilities, and location. All parks and recreational facilities located in the Santee General Plan area, including those maintained by other agencies such as the County, are shown on Figure 4.12-5. The City’s 2017 Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update identifies 265.82 acres for various park types in addition to approximately 272.25 acres of regional parkland, including Mission Trails and Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon County Preserve (Table 4.12-1; City of Santee 2003, 2017). The recently constructed Weston Park located at 9050 Trailmark Way is not included in the latest Master Plan Update, but provides additional park acreage. Approximately 190.91 acres of other recreational facilities, which include the Santee Aquatics Center and Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, are also accessible to the City. Parks and recreation land in school playgrounds, ballfields, and courts account for an additional 109.24 acres in the City. In total, the City has access to approximately 838.22 acres of developed park, open space, and recreational facilities including mini-parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, school playgrounds, regional parks, and City-owned open space (see Table 4.12-1).
FIGURE 4.12-5
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Based on the current population of 64,551 residents, 838.22 acres represents a ratio of 12.98 acres of developed park, open space, and recreational facilities for every 1,000 residents. The City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan sets the City’s goal for parks at 10 acres of parkland for every 1,000 people in the City. Of the 10 acres, the goal is for five acres to be developed public parkland and the remaining five acres be comprised of other recreational facilities, such as the school facilities and the Mission Trails and Goodan Ranch regional parks. While this standard is the City policy, and will continue to direct City park development efforts, the City has also attempted to locate new parks in areas that are currently deficient in park acreage. Currently, almost every home within the City is within one mile of a neighborhood park and within three miles of a community or future regional-serving park (City of Santee 2003).
A brief description of the City’s mini-parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, school playgrounds, regional parks, and City-owned open space is provided below and summarized in Table 4.12-1.
Table 4.12-1
Existing Parks and Recreational Facilities in the City of Santee Park/Facility Name Date Constructed Total Acreage
Parks – Mini-Parks
Santee Mini-Park 1994 0.25
Sky Ranch 2010 0.73
Parks - Neighborhood
Deputy Ken Collier Neighborhood Park 2016 0.57
Big Rock 1976 5.77
Shadow Hill 1998 4.51
Woodglen Vista 1980 9.74
West Hills 1994 13.99
Parks – Community
Mast Park 1982 24.70
Mast Park West 2011 0.80
Town Center West 2003 10.97
Town Center East 2011 24.73
Sportsplex 2011 16.53
Parks – Regional
Mission Trails 1974 192.00
Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon Preserve 1991 80.25
Open Space
Forester Creek 2010 24.96
Walker Preserve 2015 39.71
Shadow Hill 1998 0.61
Sky Ranch 2010 0.55
Mast Park 1982 37.50
Mast Park West 1982 42.50
Non-Park City Asset 6.70
Other Recreational Facilities
City Aquatics Center – Town Center Community Plan East 2001 0.91 Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve 1967 190.00
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Table 4.12-1
Existing Parks and Recreational Facilities in the City of Santee Park/Facility Name Date Constructed Total Acreage
Schools
School Playgrounds, Ballfields, and Courts Various 109.24 Total Parks and Recreational Lands 838.22
Trails
Length in Linear Miles
Paved Surface Trails Various 17.08
Non-Paved Trails Various 3.00
Bikeways Various 44.27
Total Trails 64.35
SOURCE: City of Santee 2003, 2017.
• Mini-Parks: Mini parks are small areas, no larger than two acres which serve a population of between 500 to 1,000. Features include picnic tables, children’s play area, open space/grass area, barbeque grills, and shade structures. There are two mini parks within the City, Santee Mini Park (0.25 acre) and Sky Ranch Mini Park (0.73 acre). • Neighborhood Parks: Neighborhood parks range in size from 2 to 20 acres and serve a population of between 2,000 and 5,000. They typically provide the following types of recreation opportunities: active sports, passive recreation and relaxation, and neighborhood centers. There are five neighborhood parks within the City, Deputy Ken Collier Park (0.57 acre), Big Rock Park (5.77 acres), Shadow Hill Park (4.51 acres), Woodglen Vista Park (9.74 acres), and West Hills Park (12.00 acres).
• Community Parks: Community parks range in size from 20 to 50 acres and serve a population of 10,000 to 25,000. Recreational activities commonly include the use of sports fields, camping, fishing, and passive recreation. There are five community parks in the City. Mast Park (24.70 acres), Mast Park West (0.80 acres), Town Center West (10.97 acres), Town Center East (24.73 acres), and Sportsplex (16.53 acres).
• Regional Parks: Some of the most diverse recreational opportunities are found in two regional parks. Recreational opportunities include visitor centers, multi-use trails, boating, picnic tables, and a variety of other recreational amenities. There are two regional parks within or adjacent to the City, Mission Trails Regional Park (192 acres) and Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon Preserve (80.25 acres).
• Open Space: Open space areas offer active and passive recreational opportunities, including hiking and equestrian uses. There are seven open space areas within or adjacent to the City, Forester Creek (24.96 acres), Walker Preserve (39.71 acres), Shadow Hill (0.61 acre), Sky Ranch (0.55 acre), Mast Park (37.50 acres), Mast Park West (42.50 acres), and a non-park City assets (6.70 acres).
• Other Recreational Facilities: There are two other recreational facilities within or adjacent to the City, the City Aquatics Center and the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. The City Aquatics Center provides aquatic and recreation programs, including training pool, activity pool with
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
a play structure, water slide, water exercise area, swim lessons, and water aerobics classes.
The Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, owned and operated by the Prado Dam Municipal Water District, a 190-acre preserve with seven recycled water lakes stocked with sport fish and recreational amenities such as camping, cabin rentals, fishing, boating, special events, playgrounds, walking trails, and bird watching.
• School Sites: Existing school sites in the SSD and Grossmont Union High School District are utilized through use agreements to provide public outdoor recreational areas for City residents. Active recreation uses including sports fields, hard-court games (tennis, basketball) and other indoor recreational facilities. Due to their limited time availability to the public, these school areas are figured for park acreage purposes at 50 percent of their total acreage (City of Santee 2003).
• Trails: In addition to the parks and recreation acreages above, the City also has 64.35 linear miles of trails that include paved and non-paved surface trails and bikeways, as shown in Table 4.12-1. In addition, the Stowe Trail, an approximately 6-mile-long trail runs parallel to the eastern border of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar (MCAS Miramar 2021). The Stowe Trail allows mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities via permits obtained from the Marine Corps (MCAS Miramar 2021).
a. Recreational Programming
In addition to providing physical park facilities, the City also offers a wide range of recreational programs and activities for tots, youths, teens and adults. Programs include performing arts, sports and fitness, arts and crafts, enrichment, and day. The City also provides senior-specific activities including get-away trips and sponsors several community-wide events such as the Summer Concert Series and the Fourth of July fireworks show.
The Santee Civic Center is located at 10601 Magnolia Avenue and can accommodate a variety of activities, meetings and events, such as weddings/receptions, club meetings, anniversary parties, reunions, business workshops, etc.
There are also several sport leagues that offer recreational activities for City youths. These leagues include baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, and football. While these are not City recreational offerings, the City does provide financial assistance in coordinating use of City fields and maintaining joint access agreements for use of school fields.
4.12.2 Regulatory Framework
The following regulatory framework discussion focuses on state and local regulations because there are no relevant public services or recreation-related federal laws.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.12.2.1 State
a. Fire Regulations
State fire regulations are set forth in Sections 13000 et seq. of the California Health and Safety Code, which include regulations concerning building standards (as also set forth in the California Building Code), fire protection and notification systems, fire protection devices such as extinguishers and smoke alarms, high-rise building and childcare facility standards, and fire-suppression training. The state Fire Marshal enforces these regulations and building standards in all state-owned buildings, state-occupied buildings, and state institutions throughout California. The code also includes topics such as fire department access, fire hydrants, automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, fire and explosion hazards safety, hazardous materials storage and use, provisions to protect and assist first responders, and industrial processes.
b. Police Protection
Emergency Response/Evacuation Plans
California Government Code, Section 8607(a), directs the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to prepare a Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) program, which sets forth measures by which a jurisdiction should handle emergency disasters. The program is intended to effectively manage multi-agency and multijurisdictional emergencies in California. SEMS consists of five organizational levels, which are activated as necessary: (1) Field Response, (2) Local Government, (3) Operational Area, (4) Regional, and (5) State.
Local governments must use the SEMS to be eligible for funding of their response-related personnel costs under state disaster assistance programs. The City has adopted an Emergency Operation Plan that is consistent with the SEMS.
c. Schools
Development Impact Fees/Senate Bill 50 (SB-50)
Proposition 1A, the Kindergarten-University Public Education Facilities Bond Act of 1998, or Senate Bill (SB) 50, was approved by voters in November 1998. This proposition provided $6.7 billion in general obligation bonds for K–12 public school facilities as well as the first funding for the new School Facility Program, which provides state funding assistance for new construction and modernization. This bill made major changes in the State School Facilities Program as well as developer fee mitigation for school districts in California. A primary result of SB 50 was the creation of different levels of developer fees. Specifically, the levy and collection of developer fees is governed by Education Code, Section 17620, and Government Code, Sections 65995 through 65998 and 66000 through 66008:
• Level 1 fees are the current statutory fees (also referred to as “Stirling Fees”) allowed under Education Code, Section 17620.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
• Level 2 fees are outlined in California Government Code, Section 65995.5, and allow school districts to impose higher fees on residential construction if certain conditions are met. This level of developer fees is subject to a School Facility Needs Analysis based on Government Code, Section 65995.6.
• Level 3 developer fees are outlined in Government Code, Section 65995.7, and may be implemented by a district if the state certifies that there is no money available for facilities. d. Open Space and Recreation
Public Park Preservation Act
The primary instrument for protecting and preserving parkland is the state Public Park Preservation Act. Under the California Public Resources Code, cities and counties may not acquire any real property that is used as a public park for any non-park use unless compensation or land, or both, are provided to replace the parkland acquired. This provides no net loss of parkland and facilities.
Quimby Act
Originally passed in 1975, the Quimby Act (California Government Code, Section 66477) allows cities and counties to pass ordinances requiring that developers set aside land, donate conservation easements, or pay fees for park improvements. This act allows local agencies to establish ordinances requiring developers of residential subdivisions to pay impact fees for land or recreational facilities.
Revenues generated through the Quimby Act cannot be used for the operation and maintenance of park facilities. In 1982, the act was substantially amended, further defining acceptable uses of or restrictions on Quimby funds, establishing acreage/population standards and formulas for determining the exaction, and indicating that the exactions must be closely tied to a proposed project’s impacts. Currently, park fees in the City are $7,856 per single-family residential unit and $7,162 per multi-family residential unit (City of Santee 2017).
4.12.2.2 Local
a. General Plan
The City General Plan contains policies related to public services and recreation.
Land Use Element
Objective 3.0: Provide and maintain the highest level of service possible for all community public services and facilities.
• Policy 3.1: The City should ensure that land divisions and developments are approved within the City only when a project’s improvements, dedications, fees and other revenues to the City and other agencies fully cover the project’s incremental costs to the City and other agencies. These costs are for providing new or upgraded capital improvements and other public facilities and equipment resulting from, and attributable to the project, which are necessary to protect and promote the public's health, safety and welfare and to implement feasible mitigation measures. Such facilities include, but are not limited to: parks, bridges,
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
major roads, traffic signals, street lights, drainage systems, sewers, water, flood control, fire, police, schools, hiking/bicycle trails and other related facilities. In calculating benefits of land divisions and developments, the City may consider other public objectives and goals including social, economic (job creation, secondary economic benefits, etc.) and environmental factors.
Safety Element
Objective 4.0: Minimize injuries, loss of life, and property damage resulting from fire hazards. • Policy 4.2: The City should ensure that all new development meets established response time standards for fire and life safety services.
• Policy 4.8: Encourage and support the delivery of a high level of emergency services through cooperation with other agencies and use of available financial opportunities. • Policy 4.10: Encourage the continued development, implementation and public awareness of fire prevention programs.
• Policy 4.11: In order to minimize fire hazards, the Santee Fire Department shall routinely be involved in the review of development applications. Considerations shall be given to adequate emergency access, driveway widths, turning radii, fire hydrant locations and needed fire flow requirements.
• Policy 4.12: The timing of additional fire station construction or renovation, or new services shall relate to the rise of service demand in the City and surrounding areas. • Policy 4.13: Support mutual aid agreements and communications links with County and the other municipalities participating in the Unified San Diego County Emergency Service Organization.
• Policy 5.4: The City shall involve law enforcement personnel in the review of new development applications through participation in the Development Review process.
Conservation Element
As discussed in the Conservation Element of the General Plan, the City provides four types of recreational accommodations for residents and visitors.
Objective 11.0: Promote a balanced mix of open space uses with development throughout the City to enhance visual resources, avoid hazards and conserve resources. • Policy 11.1: The City should promote the dedication of open space or parklands and the designation of private open space within all proposed residential developments. • Policy 11.2: The City should encourage, where feasible, the development of an interconnected system of open spaces throughout the City.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
• Policy 11.4: The City should ensure that adequate passive and active open space uses are incorporated into the development of the Town Center, Fanita Ranch, Rattlesnake Mountain and other large, existing vacant areas.
Recreation Element
As discussed in the Recreation Element of the General Plan, the City provides four types of recreational accommodations for residents and visitors. These include mini-parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, and regional parks.
• Mini-parks are small areas no larger than 2 acres and serve a population of about 500 to 1,000 people.
• Neighborhood parks serve a larger population, from 2,000 to 5,000, and generally range in size from 2 to 20 acres. They often are located adjacent to elementary schools and should provide three types of recreation: open areas for passive recreation and relaxation, active sports areas, and a neighborhood center.
• Community parks supplement the neighborhood parks by providing activities that require more space and specialized functions, which serve a larger population (10,000–25,000), range in size from 20 to 200 acres, and include school playgrounds and ballfields and the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
• Regional parks serve the entire County and, as such, are at least 200 acres in size.
The Recreation Element also contains goals, guidelines, and policies to guide the management of the parks and recreational system and requires that a project provide adequate active and passive forms of recreation. The Recreation Element recognizes the contributory role habitat preserves can play in meeting the recreational needs of citizens. The Recreation Element also recognizes the City’s Draft Multiple Species Conservation Program Subarea Plan as contributing to passive recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and nature appreciation.
Objective 1.0: Provide a minimum of 10 acres of park and recreational facilities for every 1,000 population in Santee. These 10 acres could include a combination of local parks, trails, school playgrounds, and other public facilities that meet part of the need for local recreational facilities. • Policy 1.1: The City shall increase the amount of park and recreational facility acreage in Santee to more closely conform to the local parkland standard. • Policy 2.2: The City shall encourage the inclusion of recreational facilities in all mixed land use developments, especially within the Town Center and the Fanita Ranch.
Trails Element
As discussed in the Trails Element of the Santee General Plan, the City plans to continue developing bicycle, equestrian, and pedestrian trails throughout the City to expand recreational and commuter use of this trails system.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Objective 1.0: Provide a safe and viable regional and community trails within the City. • Policy 1.1: Priority should be placed on establishing multiple use trails (pedestrians, bicyclists, equestrians) wherever feasible.
• Policy 1.2: All new subdivisions or planned developments whether residential, commercial, or industrial which include proposed trail locations shall dedicate easements which will provide safe and direct access to community or regional trails, and provide for trail maintenance. • Policy 1.5: The City’s trail network should link focal points of the City such as Town Center, Fanita Ranch, employment centers, schools, residential neighborhoods, parks and open space, and the San Diego River.
Objective 5.0: To provide paved trails which are safe.
• Policy 5.2: Trails should be designed to facilitate bicycle riding by incorporating standards which would reduce slopes, sharp curves, and interference with vegetation, pedestrians, and traffic.
• Policy 5.3: Bicycle paths should be incorporated into the design of community land use plans, Capital Improvement Projects, and in parks and open space as specified in the General Plan.
Objective 6.0: Provide unimproved trails that are viable routes within the community. • Policy 6.1: Priority shall be given to designating unimproved trails for multipurpose use whenever feasible.
• Policy 6.2: Develop a future system of trails on the Fanita Ranch site as well as throughout the City’s Multiple Species Conservation Program Preserve Planning Area. Priority shall be given to using existing trail alignments whenever feasible.
Objective 8.0: Provide community trails that link with regional trail systems and facilities. • Policy 8.1: Encourage the establishment of trail systems in the East Elliot area and on the Fanita Ranch site that link the Fanita Ranch and Mission Trails Regional Park with Santee Lakes and Goodan Ranch Regional Park/Sycamore Canyon Open Space Preserve and any future northern expansion of Mission Trails Regional Park. b. Municipal Code
Title 12 - Subdivision of Land, Development Fees, and Dedications Chapter 12.30 - Development Impact Fees establishes appropriate standards for public facilities, including drainage improvements, traffic improvements, traffic signals, public park facilities, community facilities and other public improvements, public services, and community amenities. This chapter effectively establishes provisions to collect fees as a condition of approval of a final map or as a condition of issuing a building permit. The purpose of the fees established by this chapter is to
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
impose upon new development the costs of constructing public facilities that are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development.
Chapter 12.40 - Park Lands Dedication establishes the provision for dedication of land, payment of in-lieu fees, or a combination of both to provide park and recreation facilities to serve future residents of a subdivision development. Santee Municipal Code, Section 12.40.070, requires the amount of land to be dedicated based on the average occupancy rate per residential unit type and the ratio of dedication equivalent to 5 acres per 1,000 population (City of Santee 2020).
4.12.3 Significance Determination Thresholds
Consistent with Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, impacts to public services and recreation would be significant if the proposed project would:
1) Threshold 1: 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
2) Threshold 2: Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility occur or be accelerated.
3) Threshold 3: Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment.
4.12.4 Methodology
The impact analysis in the following subsections is based on an evaluation of the project’s potential demand for new services and recreational facilities. Public services and recreation information was acquired through secondary source materials and regional and local planning documents, including the City’s General Plan, fire protection regulations, and evacuation plans. School districts were contacted to determine the capacity to serve projected school populations. Will-serve correspondence from public schools were obtained and are included as Appendix F.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.12.5 Issue 1a: Fire Service
Would the project promote growth patterns resulting in the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered fire emergency facilities in order to maintain service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives, and the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts?
4.12.5.1 Impact Analysis
As detailed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description, the project includes implementation of the 6th Cycle Housing Element program which commits the City to evaluate the Rezone Sites and implement rezones as appropriate to achieve adequate housing capacity to meet the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation obligations, which is a total of 1,219 units. The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. The future construction of residential units associated with Rezone Sites would accommodate future population growth within the City anticipated by the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG); however, construction of these residential units could potentially increase demand for fire protection facilities.
All future development, whether discretionary or by-right, would be required to adhere to the City’s Municipal Code. Specifically, Chapter 12.50, would require payment of a Development Impact Fee (DIF) to ensure the costs of constructing public facilities that are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development. Likewise, future project compliance with the City’s General Plan requires land developers to pay the cost of ensuring adequate public services and facilities. Safety Element Policy 4.2 requires that all new development meets established response time standards for fire and life safety services, and Policy 4.12 requires the timing of additional fire station construction or renovation, or new services to be related to the rise of service demands. Development at the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new fire facilities; however, each incremental housing development would pay DIF towards anticipated fire facility needs that would ultimately support funding for improvements to fire facilities and operations. At the time future fire facilities are proposed, they would require a separate environmental review and compliance with regulations in existence at that time would address potential environmental impacts related to the construction and operation of new fire facilities. Therefore, at this programmatic level of review, impacts related to the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered fire emergency facilities would be less than significant.
4.12.5.2 Significance of Impacts
Future discretionary and/or by-right development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new fire facilities. While each incremental housing development would pay DIF toward anticipated fire facility needs, the project would not warrant construction of a new facility at this time. Construction of any future fire facilities would be evaluated under a separate environmental review and approval. Project impacts associated with construction of fire protection facilities would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.12.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.6 Issue 1b: Police Protection
Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered police protection facilities in order to maintain service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives, 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?
4.12.6.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. While future development at the Rezone Sites would accommodate future population growth within the City, construction of these residential units could potentially increase demand for police protection facilities.
All future development, whether discretionary or by-right, would be required to adhere to the City’s municipal code. Specifically, Chapter 12.50, would require payment of a DIF to ensure the costs of constructing public facilities that are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development.
Likewise, future project compliance with the City’s General Plan requires land developers to pay the cost of ensuring adequate public services and facilities. Safety Element Policy 4.2 requires that all new development meets established response time standards for fire and life safety services, and Policy 5.4 requires the involvement of law enforcement personnel in the review of new development applications through participation in the Development Review process. Development at the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new police facilities, since each incremental housing development would pay DIF towards anticipated police facility needs.
Additionally, the review of project applications by law enforcement personnel would ensure that City’s police department are comfortable with the level of safety associated with the proposed development. In the future, if law enforcement facilities are proposed, they would require a separate environmental review and compliance with regulations in existence at that time would address potential environmental impacts related to the construction and operation of new fire facilities.
Therefore, at this programmatic level of review, impacts related to the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered police facilities would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.12.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Future discretionary and/or by-right development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new police facilities, since each incremental housing development would pay DIF toward anticipated facility needs, and the City’s police department would be involved in the development review process. Construction of any future police facilities would be evaluated under a separate environmental review and approval. Project impacts associated with construction of police facilities would be less than significant.
4.12.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.7 Issue 1c: Schools
Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered school facilities in order to maintain service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives, 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?
4.12.7.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Future development at the Rezone Sites would accommodate future population growth within the City. The Santee School District and the Grossmont Union High School District were contacted to determine their availability to accommodate student enrollment generated by the project. The Santee School District estimated that the project would generate an additional 495 students, while the Grossmont Union High School District estimated student generation of approximately 300 high school students. While development of future residential units would have the potential to generate students that would place additional demand on school facilities, both the SSD and GUHSD have excess enrollment capacity, indicating that additional students can be accommodated. Refer to Appendix F for correspondence from the respective districts indicating the availability of school enrollment.
Additionally, all future development, whether discretionary or by-right would be required to adhere to state statutory fees pursuant to SB 50. Specifically, the SSD and GUHSD each currently levy impact fees on development within their district boundaries consistent with SB 50. For SSD and GUHSD, residential development fees are $2.35/square foot and $1.00/square foot, respectively. Future development projects would also be required to demonstrate compliance with the City’s General Plan which requires land developers to ensure adequate schools for potential residents.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new school facilities, based on the existing capacity at area schools and the payment of SB 50 fees. At the time future schools are proposed, they would require a separate environmental review and compliance with regulations in existence at that time would address potential environmental impacts related to the construction and operation of new school facilities. Therefore, at this programmatic level of review, impacts related to the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered schools would be less than significant.
4.12.7.2 Significance of Impacts
Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new school facilities, based on the capacity at existing schools and the fact that future housing development would be required to pay its SB 50 share as required by the SSD and GUHSD toward anticipated facility needs. Construction of any future school facilities would under a separate environmental review and approval. Payment of GUHSD fees consistent with SB 50 and would ensure that impacts associated with construction of schools would be less than significant.
4.12.7.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.7.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.8 Issue 1e: Library Services
Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered library facilities in order to maintain service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives, 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?
4.12.8.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Development at the Rezone Sites would accommodate future population growth within the City. As noted in Section
4.12.1.4, based on the San Diego County service ratio goals for library services the Santee Library, with 75,000 square feet of space, is at a deficit; however, the combination of a cooperative library system with surrounding cities, and participation in Bookmobile, library service within the City is considered to be adequate. Nonetheless, construction of additional residential units could potentially increase demand for library services.
All future development, whether discretionary or by-right, would be required to adhere to the City’s Municipal Code. Specifically, Chapter 12.50, would require payment of DIF to ensure the costs of
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
constructing public facilities that are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development, including libraries. Additionally, the City would continue to participate in programs related to providing residents access to library books and programs and support the efforts of the Friends of Santee Library, a non-profit organization committed to raising funds for a new larger library.
Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction or expansion of a library, since each incremental housing development would pay its fair share toward anticipated library facility needs. At the time a future library is proposed, it would require a separate environmental review and compliance with regulations in existence at that time would address potential environmental impacts related to the construction and operation of new school facilities. Therefore, at this programmatic level of review, impacts related to the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered library would be less than significant.
4.12.8.2 Significance of Impacts
Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new library facilities, since each incremental housing development would pay its fair share toward anticipated library facility needs. Construction of any future library facilities would under a separate environmental review and approval. Project impacts associated with construction of libraries would be less than significant.
4.12.8.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.8.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.9 Issues 1d, 2 and 3: Parks and Recreational Facilities Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered park facilities in order to maintain service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives, 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? 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? Would the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment?
4.12.9.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Development at the
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.12 Public Services and Recreation City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Rezone Sites would accommodate future population growth within the City. As detailed in Section
4.12.1.5, the City currently meets its overall goal for parkland; however, construction of additional residential units could potentially increase demand for park and recreational facilities.
All future development, whether discretionary or by-right, would be required to pay in-lieu fees consistent with the Quimby Act and City Municipal Code Section 12.40 to fund additional park facilities within the City. Payment of such fees would allow the City to continue to implement numerous General Plan policies in place to maintain park and recreation facilities within the City, including Land Use Policy 3.1 (adequate parkland consistent with development); Conservation Element Policies 11.1, 11.2, and 11.4 (promote dedicated open space, both active and passive, throughout the City); Recreation Element Policies 1.1 and 2.2 (increase parkland ratios, and focus on recreational facilities to be constructed in mixed-use development); and numerous Trails Element policies which all envision the continued development of bicycle, equestrian and pedestrian trails throughout the City. Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to directly require construction or expansion of a parks and recreational facilities, since each incremental housing development would pay its fair share toward anticipated park needs. At the time a future parkland project is proposed, it would require a separate environmental review and compliance with regulations in existence at that time would address potential environmental impacts related to the construction and operation of new park facilities. Therefore, at this programmatic level of review, impacts related to the need for and/or provision of new or physically altered parks and recreation facilities would be less than significant.
4.12.9.2 Significance of Impacts
Development within the Rezone Sites would not directly result in sufficient demand to require construction of new park facilities, since each incremental housing development would pay its fair share toward anticipated park needs. Construction of any future parks would be under a separate environmental review and approval. Impacts associated with park and recreation facilities would be less than significant.
4.12.9.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.12.9.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13 Transportation
This section evaluates the potential transportation impacts that could result from implementation of the City of Santee (City) 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project). The sites included in the analysis are detailed in Table 3-2 and include 25 potential rezone housing sites and the two sites located on Graves Avenue, collectively referred to as the Rezone Sites. This section addresses potential impacts associated with changes to vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and transportation resulting from implementation of the project and evaluates the project’s consistency with applicable transportation goals and policies. Information in this section is based on a Transportation Impact Study prepared by CR Associates included as Appendix G.
4.13.1 Existing Conditions
This section describes the project’s transportation study area and the existing roadway network, pedestrian and bicycle networks, and public transit.
4.13.1.1 Roadway Network
The existing roadway network in the City consists of regional facilities such as State Routes (SR-) 52, 67, and 125, as well as numerous arterials and local streets. These regional corridors run adjacent to or traverse the City, carrying significant levels of traffic while providing regional access to and from the City. Existing primary north-south roadways include Carlton Hills Boulevard, Cuyamaca Street, Cottonwood Avenue, Fanita Drive, Graves Avenue, and Magnolia Avenue. Existing primary east-west roadways include Carlton Oaks Drive/Halberns Boulevard, El Nopal, Mast Boulevard, Mission Gorge Road, Prospect Avenue, Town Center Parkway, and Woodside Avenue. a. Freeways
SR-52 - SR-52 is a major east-west regional facility and provides access between the Interstate 5 (I-5) and SR-67. SR-52 is also known as the Soledad Freeway and the San Clemente Canyon Freeway.
There are plans to add one lane in each direction, as well as two reversible lanes, from I-15 to SR125. These plans were put on hold in 2008 due to a budget shortfall. Completion is scheduled to take place by 2040 per current San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).
SR-67 - SR-67 is a major north-south regional facility and provides access for the rural northeastern parts of the County of San Diego to the major east-west freeway facilities in central and southern San Diego County. Also known as the San Vincente Freeway, SR-67 starts in the City of El Cajon and ends in the rural unincorporated community of Ramona.
SR-125 - SR-125 is a major north-south regional facility and provides access from the City of Santee to the north to Otay Mesa Road in the City of Chula Vista, near the United States-Mexico border.
SR-125 becomes a toll road south of SR-54 entering the City of Chula Vista.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13.1.2 Public Transit
Transit service throughout the City is provided by the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), and includes both bus and light rail trolley services. Approximately 40 percent of the total City population1, or 24,015 residents, live within 0.25 mile of a transit stop. There are currently three intracity bus routes serving the City. Intracity bus routes include routes 832, 833, and 834. Many of the existing transit stops within the City are devoid of basic amenities such as shelters, benches, and trash cans, which likely reduces the appeal of utilizing public transit (City of Santee 2017a).
The City is also served by the San Diego Trolley Green Line (Route 530), with one station located at the Santee Transit Center. The Green Line runs between the Santee Transit Center and the 12th and Imperial Avenue Transit Center in downtown San Diego. The line provides service from Santee through Mission Valley, and into downtown San Diego via the Old Town Transit Center. Refer to Figure 4.13-1 for the location of transit routes including bus stops and the Green Line Transit Center in relation to the Rezone Sites. Table 4.13-1 shows those Rezone Sites closest to transit stops, of which, eight of the Rezone sites are located within one-quarter mile of a transit stop.
Table 4.13-1
Rezone Sites Distance to Transit
Rezone Site Distance to Transit Stop (miles) Within ¼ mile to Transit 1 - 10 0.75 to 1 No
11, 12 0.3 No
15 0.05 Yes
16A, 16B 0.2 Yes
17, 18 0.3 No
19 0.27 No
20A, 20B 0.1 Yes
24 0.5 No
25 0.4 No
29, 30 0.12 Yes
35 0.8 No
Graves Avenue Sites 0.05 Yes
1City population based on Census Bureau; April 2020 is 60,037.
FIGURE 4.13-1
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M:\JOBS5\9705\common_gis\Fig4.13-1_Transit.mxd 6/6/2022 fmm 0 Miles 1 [
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Graves Avenue Rezone Sites
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4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13.1.3 Pedestrian and Bicycle Network
Pedestrian facilities generally include sidewalks, curb ramps, and other amenities such as street trees for shading. There are approximately 1,088,681 linear feet of sidewalks within the City. Bicycle travel has become an integral part of transportation and circulation network planning and are a component of the City’s transportation system. The term “bikeway” is used to define lanes designated primarily for safe bicycle travel. There are three classifications of bikeways (City of Santee 2003):
• Class I Bikeway (bike path or trail) – Provides a completely separated right-of-way designated for the exclusive use of bicycles. Crossflows of pedestrians and vehicles are minimized. • Class II Bikeway (bike lane) – Provides a restricted right-of-way designated for the exclusive or semi-exclusive use of bicycles. Through travel by motor vehicles or pedestrians is prohibited, though parking and crossflows of pedestrian and motorist traffic are permitted. • Class III Bikeway (bike route) – Provides for a right-of-way designated by signage or permanent markings with shared use of pedestrians and/or motorists.
The City currently contains approximately 33.8 miles of bicycle facilities, over half of which are Class II bicycle lanes. Of the City’s existing roadways, 14 percent have bicycle facilities. According to the American Community Survey, approximately 24 residents currently bike to work, which represents
0.1 percent of all workers in the City (City of Santee 2017b).
4.13.2 Regulatory Framework
Several existing federal, state, regional, and local plans and programs provide transportation and traffic guidance. Applicable plans are discussed below.
4.13.2.1 Federal
a. 2010 Highway Capacity Manual
Prepared by the Transportation Research Board, the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) is a joint effort between the Transportation Research Board, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials to provide concepts, guidelines, and computational procedures for calculating capacity and quality of service for highway facilities, including freeways, intersections (signalized and unsignalized), and rural highways. In addition, the 2010 HCM addresses the effects of transit, pedestrians, and bicycles on transportation system performance.
4.13.2.2 State
a. Senate Bill 375 Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act Senate Bill 375 (SB 375) (2008) aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from passenger vehicles through an integrated approach to regional transportation and land use planning. Local
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
governments have an important role to play in reducing GHG emissions since cities and counties are required to update the housing elements of their general plans to implement their share of their Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation, which, in areas with Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), must be consistent with the Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) of the regional transportation plans.
There is a strong link between land use, housing location decisions, and strategies to reduce emissions from the transportation sector. Within urbanized areas, residential development accounts for the largest share of land area, constituting a major influence on regional development footprints and travel patterns. As such, integrating transportation and residential land use is one of the most impactful strategies for reducing GHG emissions, as well as other forms of air pollution, for the transportation system. Governmental actions supporting the location, variety, and availability of housing are critical to implementing GHG emissions reduction policies. Infill development patterns that emphasize proximity and connectivity to public transit, walkable areas, employment and service centers, and amenities can increase the effectiveness of these relationships. b. State Transportation Improvement Program
The California State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is an intermodal program of transportation projects that is consistent with the statewide transportation plan and planning processes, metropolitan plans, and Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The STIP was first prepared in 2006, and is added to every two years by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in cooperation with the MPOs and the regional transportation planning agencies. The most recent STIP Guidelines were adopted on August 27, 2015. In San Diego County, the MPO and regional transportation planning agency is SANDAG. The STIP contains all capital and non-capital transportation projects or identified phases of transportation projects for funding under the Federal Transit Act and Title 23 of the U.S. Code, including federally funded projects. All projects funded through the STIP in San Diego County are included in the SANDAG Regional Transportation Improvement Program discussed in Section 4.13.2.3.b.
c. Senate Bill 743 Environmental Quality
SB 743 (2013) created a process to change the way projects analyze transportation impacts pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Previously environmental review of transportation impacts focused on the delay that vehicles experience at intersections and on roadway segments. That delay was measured using a metric known as “level of service,” or LOS. Under SB 743, the focus of transportation analysis has shifted from driver delay to reduction of GHG emissions, creation of multimodal networks and promotion of a mix of land uses since July 1, 2020. The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) has amended the CEQA Guidelines to provide an alternative to level of service for evaluating transportation impacts. The alternative criteria must promote the reduction of GHG emissions, the development of multimodal transportation networks, and a diversity of land uses. According to the legislative intent contained in SB 743, these changes were necessary to more appropriately balance the needs of congestion management with statewide goals related to infill development, promotion of public health through active transportation, and reduction of GHG emissions.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13.2.3 Regional
a. San Diego Forward
San Diego Forward (Regional Plan) was adopted by the SANDAG Board of Directors on December 10, 2021. San Diego Forward combines and updates the region’s two regional planning documents: the Regional Comprehensive Plan (2004) and the San Diego Forward (2015)/Sustainable Communities Strategy (2011). San Diego Forward provides a vision for the region’s growth through the year 2050.
The plan reflects a strategy for a more sustainable future which includes investing in a transportation network that will provide people more travel choices, protects the environment, creates healthy communities, and stimulates economic growth (SANDAG 2021). San Diego Forward includes a detailed blueprint for how we will invest in our transportation system in ways over the next 35 years.
The plan outlines the investment of nearly $204 billion in year-of expenditure dollars in local, state, and federal dollars to build a comprehensive, interconnected transportation system that provides choices.
b. Regional Transportation Improvement Program
The Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP) is a multi-year program that includes all proposed major highway, arterial, transit, and non-motorized projects in the region. Improvements to nearly all of the major highways in the San Diego region are included in the 2021 RTIP, adopted by the SANDAG Board of Directors on February 26, 2021. The 2021 RTIP covers fiscal years 2021 through 2025.
4.13.2.4 Local
a. City of Santee VMT Analysis Guidelines
Consistent with SB 743, the Santee City Council approved a resolution adopting its VMT Analysis Guidelines on April 27, 2022. The guidelines contain thresholds of significance for purposes of analyzing transportation impacts under CEQA. The intent of the VMT Analysis Guidelines is to provide consistency in significance determinations to integrate environmental review with other environmental program planning and regulation.
b. Active Santee Plan
The Active Santee Plan (ASP; 2021) was prepared as a comprehensive update of the Bicycle Master Plan (2009) of the Santee General Plan and a comprehensive pedestrian plan. The ASP provides a framework for development of the City’s bicycle network and pedestrian network. Many of the highest priority segments identified in the ASP have been implemented or are currently being constructed, including segments of the River Trail (City of Santee 2017a).
The goal of the ASP is to encourage alternative means of transportation on a regional and community scale. The four overarching goals identified as desired future outcomes for active transportation within the City include:
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
• A balanced, interconnected multimodal transportation network that allows for the efficient and safe movement of all people and goods, and that supports the current and future needs of Santee community members and travel generated by planned land uses. • Encourage alternative means of transportation on a regional and community scale for all trip types: work commute, school commute, errands and recreation. • Designate the location and the appropriate type of bikeways and paved bicycle trails that would have the greatest potential to serve the commuter and recreational needs of the community of Santee.
• To create an environment that allows for school aged children to safely walk and ride their bicycles to school on convenient and connected networks.
Specific ASP objectives and policies that are relevant to the project are described below:
Objective 1.0: Ensure that the existing and future transportation system is accessible, safe, reliable, efficient, integrated, convenient, well connected, and multi-modal. • Policy 1.1: The City shall provide integrated transportation and land use decisions that enhance smart growth development served by complete streets, which facilitate multimodal transportation opportunities.
Objective 2.0: Upgrade and maintain Santee’s transportation corridors to meet the safety needs of all roadway users – including youth and elderly and travelers of varying physical abilities – and to provide a well-connected system throughout the City.
• Policy 2.3: The City’s pedestrian and bicycle networks should connect to trailheads, in particular at such locations as the San Diego River Trail and at parks and open spaces. • Policy 2.4: Near commuter rail stations, provide access paths to these transit centers to encourage walking and cycling.
Objective 3.0: Develop, maintain, and support a safe, comprehensive and integrated bikeway system that encourages bicycling.
• Policy 3.2: The City shall require new development and redevelopment to provide connections to existing and proposed bicycle routes, where appropriate.
Objective 5.0: Promote bicycle usage
• Policy 5.2: Bicycle racks should be made available at all new or rehabilitated nonresidential developments.
• Policy 5.3: The City shall consider every street in Santee as a street that bicyclists will use. • Policy 5.4: Develop a City-wide bicycle map.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Objective 7.0: Develop and maintain an accessible, safe, complete and convenient pedestrian system that encourages walking.
• Policy 7.1: The City should require the incorporation of pedestrian-friendly design concepts where feasible including separated sidewalks and bikeways, landscaped parkways, traffic calming measures, safe intersection designs and access to transit facilities and services into both public and private developments.
Objective 8.0: Increased use of alternative modes of travel to schools to reduce peak hour vehicular trips, save energy, and improve air quality around schools. • Policy 8.2: The City should improve safety of walking and biking environment around schools to reduce school-related vehicle trips.
In addition to goals, objectives, and policies, the ASP includes recommendations consisting of a planned bicycle network, sidewalk infill and trail accessibility enhancements. As shown in Figure 4.13- 2, the City’s planned bicycle network includes three classifications: Bicycle paths (Class 1; should be utilized as much as possible for regional and community trails, but not for those designated on small local streets where traffic volume is minimal); Bicycle lanes (Class 2; should be utilized as necessary links to bicycle paths or local routes where paths are not feasible); and Bicycle routes (Class 3; should be utilized for necessary links or as interim links prior to the implementation of bicycle lanes or paths.
Implementation includes signage). Planned sidewalk infill locations and trail access enhancements and their proximity to the Rezone Sites are shown in Figures 4.13-3 and 4.13-4, respectively. c. General Plan
Divided into nine elements, the General Plan is a statement of intent by the City as to the future development of the community. This is accomplished through objectives and policies that serve as a long-term policy guide for physical, economic, and environmental growth.
As one of the mandated elements of the General Plan, the Mobility Element (City of Santee 2017a) serves as an update to the General Plan’s Circulation Element intended to provide a vision and framework for the development of the City’s transportation network though the year 2035, while assuming full buildout of the current General Plan land uses. This update describes existing transportation systems in the City and establishes a plan for a multi‐modal transportation system.
This element is intended to provide for a balanced mobility system that will support travel demands associated with land uses in the Land Use Element while maintaining a high quality of life for the residents of the City and all roadway users.
FIGURE 4.13-2
Planned Bicycle Network
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Eligible By-Right Development Sites
Graves Avenue Rezone Sites
Existing Bicycle Facilities
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Proposed Multi-use Path (Paved)
FIGURE 4.13-3
Planned Sidewalk Infill Projects
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Pedestrain Project by Group
Project Group
(Colors Indicate Grouping)
FIGURE 4.13-4
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4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
The goal of the Mobility Element is a balanced, interconnected multimodal transportation network that allows for the efficient and safe movement of all people and goods, and that supports the current and future needs of City community members and travel generated by planned land uses.
The relevant objectives and policies are as follows (City of Santee 2017a):
Mobility Element
Objective 1.0: Ensure that the existing and future transportation system is accessible, safe, reliable, efficient, integrated, convenient, well‐connected and multimodal. The system will accommodate active transportation, and accommodate people of all ages and abilities, including pedestrians, disabled, bicyclists, users of mass transit, motorists, emergency responders, freight providers, and adjacent land uses.
• Policy 1.1: The City shall provide integrated transportation and land use decisions that enhance smart growth development served by complete streets, which facilitate multimodal transportation opportunities.
• Policy 1.2: The City should design streets in a manner that is sensitive to the local context and recognizes that needs vary between mixed use, urban, suburban, and rural settings.
Objective 2.0: Develop an efficient, safe and multi‐modal transportation network, consisting of local roads, collectors, arterials, freeways and transit services, in a manner that promotes the health and mobility of Santee residents and that meets future circulation needs, provides access to all sectors of the City, and supports established and planned land uses. • Policy 2.1: The City shall encourage an automobile LOS “D” on street segments and at intersections throughout the circulation network while also maintaining or improving the effectiveness of the non‐automotive components of the circulation system (i.e., pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit), especially in the Santee Town Center area. The City may approve a lower automobile LOS if it finds that the effectiveness of non‐automotive components of the circulation system would be maintained or improved as a result. • Policy 2.2: The City should ensure adequate accessibility for all modes to the northern undeveloped area of the City by designating a functional network of public streets for future dedication either prior to, or concurrent with anticipated need. • Policy 2.7: The City should coordinate with Caltrans, SANDAG, MTS [Metropolitan Transit System], and other responsible agencies to identify, plan, and implement needed transportation improvements.
Objective 7.0: Develop, maintain, and support a safe, comprehensive and integrated bikeway system that encourages bicycling, as documented in the City’s Bicycle Master Plan. • Policy 7.4: The City should require new development and redevelopment to provide connections to existing and proposed bicycle routes, where appropriate.
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Objective 8.0: Develop and maintain an accessible, safe, complete and convenient pedestrian system that encourages walking.
• Policy 8.1: The City should require the incorporation of pedestrian-friendly design concepts where feasible including separated sidewalks and bikeways, landscaped parkways, traffic calming measures, safe intersection designs and access to transit facilities and services into both public and private developments.
4.13.3 Significance Determination Thresholds
Consistent with Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, impacts related to transportation would be significant if implementation of the project would:
1) Threshold 1: Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities. 2) Threshold 2: Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b).
3) Threshold 3: Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment). 4) Threshold 4: Result in inadequate emergency access.
4.13.4 Methodology
Three study scenarios were evaluated, including Base Year and two future year alternatives, as follows:
• Base Year (2016) – establishes the baseline VMT within the project study area (City and its region).
• No Project (Adopted General Plan) – represents buildout of the City’s currently adopted General Plan Land Use and Mobility Elements.
• Proposed Project – represents buildout of the City and the Rezone Sites. The Rezone Sites override the sites identified in the City’s currently adopted General Plan.
For purposes of the environmental analysis, a travel demand model forecasting process was utilized to estimate the future resident VMT per capita within the region as well as within the City. A model validation process was completed which included verification of land use inputs, as well as additional adjustments of roadway, transit, active transportation networks including but not limited to roadway speeds, number of lanes, and centroid loadings for each of the study alternatives. The model was additionally validated to ensure the commercial land use assumptions for Rezone Sites 16A, 20B, and the Graves Avenue commercial sites were taken into account. Since the model area (or traffic analysis zone) within which these sites are located contain similar or greater commercial intensity, the land use input was not modified for the commercial land uses. With implementation of all rezones, the
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
modeling showed an increase in 987 employees with project buildout (2050). This value was used in modeling inputs for the air quality and GHG analysis.
4.13.5 Issue 1: Circulation System
Would the project conflict with a plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities?
4.13.5.1 Impact Analysis
The project includes evaluation of Rezone Sites that would increase ultimate development intensity on selected sites. Additionally, development at Rezone Sites may proceed within a ministerial approval in certain circumstances. Future development on these sites could have an effect on the circulation system including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.
Future development that requires a discretionary review would be subject to a site-specific environmental review that considers consistency with all applicable plans including the City’s Active Santee Plan. Consistency review associated with future discretionary review would ensure impacts associated with policy consistency related to the circulation system would be less than significant.
While potential future ministerial development projects would not require a subsequent environmental review, these projects would be subject to a ministerial review that would include consistency with the City’s Public Works Standards. The City’s Engineering Division review would ensure individual projects include appropriate frontage requirements to ensure consistency with the City’s Mobility Element and the ASP. Pedestrian and bicycle improvements necessary to meet City Public Work Standards could include providing sidewalks and landscape buffers, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility requirements, and other improvements that would support bicycle, pedestrian, and transit accessibility. To support implementation of these requirements, the project includes objective design and performance standards that would be implemented during the review process for future ministerial development. The standards include a requirement that project applicants shall make roadway improvements along the project frontage including adjoining intersections in accordance with the Mobility Element.
Regarding transit, future development at Rezone Sites would be consistent with Policy 2.2 within the City’s General Plan Land Use Element, which encourages the development of higher density residential developments in areas close to the multi-modal transit station (at Santee Town Center) and along major road corridors where transit and other convenience services are available. Refer to Figure 4.13-1 and Table 4.13-1 for the location of transit including bus stops and the Green Line trolley stop at the Santee Town Center in relation to the Rezone Sites. As shown, the project would add density in locations proximate to transit, providing consistency with City policies. Furthermore, all future site-specific projects would be reviewed to ensure conflict with transit facilities. All development (discretionary and ministerial) would be subject to implementation of the City’s Public Works Standards which includes general design criteria related to circulation and parking.
The required engineering and Mobility Element consistency review, along with application of the objective design and performance standards for ministerial projects, associated with development at
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Rezone Sites would avoid conflicts with applicable plans or policies related to transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Therefore, the project would not conflict with a plan, ordinance, or policy addressing transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities and impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.5.2 Significance of Impacts
Ministerial and discretionary development at the Rezone Sites would adhere to an engineering and policy review that would ensure consistency with applicable policies related to transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Therefore, the project would not conflict with a plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13.6 Issue 2: Vehicle Miles Traveled
Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
4.13.6.1 Impact Analysis
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 requires that the determination of significance for transportation impacts be based on VMT instead of a congestion metric such as LOS. The change in the focus of transportation analysis is the result of SB 743, as detailed in Section 4.13.2.2(c). The Transportation Impact Study (TIS; see Appendix G) evaluated project impacts based on the resident VMT per capita metric, which includes all daily vehicle-based person trips originated from or ending at the home location of the individual (driver or passenger). The VMT/Capita includes, for all San Diego County residents, all vehicle-based resident travel grouped and summed to the home location of the individual. It includes all resident vehicle travel: home-based and non-home-based. The VMT for each individual is then summed for all individuals residing in a particular census tract and divided by the population of that census tract to arrive at Resident VMT/Capita .
The City of Santee VMT Analysis Guidelines (adopted on April 27, 2022) recommends setting a VMT per capita threshold of 15 percent below that of existing development as a reasonable threshold based on an extensive review of applicable research, including California Air Resources Board assessments of the VMT reductions that would be needed to meet the state’s long-term climate goals. In other words, in order to result in a less than significant impact, VMT per capita resulting from a project should be at or below the 85th percentile of the citywide average for that land use type (City of Santee 2022).
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
The VMT analysis utilized the average resident VMT per capita for the City and was determined using SANDAG’s Series 14 Base Year (2016). Table 4.13-2 display the City’s resident VMT efficiency metrics for the Base Year (2016) conditions. The 2016 baseline is the base year model in the SANDAG Series 14 Regional Transportation Model. As shown, the City’s VMT per capita is 20.5 miles per person.
Table 4.13-2
VMT Efficiency Metrics for Base Year (2016) and with the Project City of Santee
Project % of Citywide Resident VMT per
Capita
2016 Base Year Resident VMT per
Capita (Existing Conditions) 20.5 -
Resident VMT per Capita with Project 18.7 91.2% (>85%)1 SOURCE: Appendix G.
1 In order to have a less than significant VMT impact, a project must demonstrate it can achieve a VMT per capita of 85 percent or less than the citywide average.
As shown in Table 4.13-2, with implementation of the Rezone Sites, including buildout of the City’s General Plan land use and transportation network, the average resident VMT per capita of City would be reduced to 18.7 (from 20.5 under base year). While the project would result in a reduction in VMT per capita which would move the City in the direction of reducing VMT Citywide, the 18.7 VMT per capita represents 91.2 percent of the base year citywide average. As a result, VMT per capita associated with the project would be greater than 85 percent of the citywide average and would exceed the VMT threshold, which would be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b). In order to have a less than significant VMT impact, a project must demonstrate it can achieve a VMT per capita of 85 percent or less than the citywide average.
4.13.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Future development of the Rezone Sites in conjunction with the project would change the Citywide VMT efficiency to 18.7 compared to 20.5 under the Base Year (2016), representing a slight increase in VMT efficiency with the project. However, this VMT efficiency of 18.7 with the project represents 91 percent of the citywide average, which exceeds the VMT significance threshold. Therefore, projected VMT per capita with the project would exceed the 85 percent threshold representing a significant impact (Impact TRA-1).
4.13.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Mitigation is proposed for implementation of both discretionary and by-right development projects.
Mitigation would either be applied during a future discretionary review or for by-right development would be applied as a requirement of the City’s objective design and performance standards adopted as part of the project. Future development of Rezone Sites would require implementation of the following mitigation framework:
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
MM-TRA-1: VMT Reduction
The City shall require implementation of applicable Mobility Element Policies that would support VMT reductions for individual projects. Specifically, the City shall require that future projects are compliant with Mobility Element Policies 9.1 through
9.5, which encourage the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies, such as ride sharing programs, flexible work schedule programs, and incentives for employees to use transit. Additionally, alternative transportation modes, such as walking, cycling and public transit are encouraged to reduce peak hour vehicular trips, save energy, and improve air quality. Sample TDM measures that may be applied at the project-level are provided below:
• Increase mixed-use development
• Increase transit accessibility
• Provide pedestrian network improvement along project frontage • Provide bicycle network improvement along project frontage • Provide bicycle parking and bike lockers
• Implement subsidized or discounted transit passes
• Provide rider-sharing programs
• Implement commute trip reduction marketing
• Implement school pool program
• Implement bike-sharing or micro mobility program
• Provide local shuttle to connect visitors to different attractions throughout the City
Additional measures can be found in the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures report (http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/defaultsource/ceqa/handbook/capcoa-quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf). Mitigation measures should be consistent with the City’s Active Transportation Plan.
4.13.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
Implementation of the MM-TRA-1 as part of future projects reviews would potentially reduce VMT per capita. However, the effectiveness of VMT reducing measures is context-sensitive and would vary depending on project details, such as the location, access to transit, etc. At a program level of review, it is not guaranteed that each individual project would be able to fully mitigate the potential impacts particularly considering the high VMT per capita in the City compared to the citywide average. While MM-TRA-1 would minimize VMT impacts associated with future development at the Rezone Sites, impacts would not be fully mitigated. Therefore, impacts associated with VMT would remain significant and unavoidable.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13.7 Issue 3: Hazards Due to a Design Feature
Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
4.13.7.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose any changes to the existing roadway network. Future site-specific development may require improvements to the existing roadway network. These improvements would be subject to an engineering review to ensure roads and access are configured consistent with established roadway design standards. While potential future ministerial development projects would not require a subsequent environmental review, these projects would be subject to a ministerial review that would include consistency with the City’s Public Works Standards. The Engineering Division review would ensure individual projects do not create hazards and are designed consistent with established standards.
Additionally, all future development would be subject to policies set forth in the Mobility Element of the General Plan. Implementation of Policy 3.1 (Streets and Freeway System) states the City to encourage the development of improved signalization and intersection design while taking into consideration the safety of all modes. In addition, Policy 3.1 (Streets and Freeway System) states the City should encourage the utilization of traffic control devices, such as center medians and/or leftturn pockets where appropriate and that do not conflict with safety and discourage the installation of median cute where traffic safety cannot be assured. Therefore, implementation of the existing regulatory framework would ensure future development would not result in hazards due to a design feature. Impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.7.2 Significance of Impacts
The project does not propose any changes to the existing roadway network. Future site-specific development would be designed consistent with established roadway design standards. Therefore, the project would not substantially increase hazards, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.7.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13.7.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13 Transportation
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.13.8 Issue 4: Emergency Access
Would the project result in inadequate emergency access?
4.13.8.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose any changes to the existing roadway network. Access for future sitespecific development to the existing roadway network would be configured consistent with established roadway design standards that would allow for emergency access. As described in Section 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, the City implements the Santee Emergency Operations Plan to ensure adequate emergency access within the City. Additionally, the City implements its Mobility Element Policy Objective 1.0, which ensures that the existing and future transportation system is accessible, safe, reliable, efficient, integrated, convenient, well‐connected, and multimodal. The system will accommodate active transportation, and accommodate people of all ages and abilities, including pedestrians, disabled, bicyclists, users of mass transit, motorists, emergency responders, freight providers and adjacent land uses. In addition, Policy 3.3 states the City shall ensure that newly constructed roadways are designed to permit rapid access for emergency vehicles. To support implementation of the Mobility Element for ministerial projects, the project also includes adoption of objective design and performance standards that would be implemented during the review process for future ministerial development. The standards include a requirement that project applicants shall make roadway improvements along the project frontage including adjoining intersections in accordance with the Mobility Element. Therefore, the project would not result in inadequate emergency access, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.8.2 Significance of Impacts
The project does not propose any changes to the existing roadway network. Access for future sitespecific development to the existing roadway network would be configured consistent with established roadway design standards that would allow for emergency access. The City would continue to implement the Santee Emergency Operations Plan to ensure adequate emergency access within the City. Therefore, the project would not result in inadequate emergency access, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.13.8.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.13.8.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.14 Utilities and Service Systems
This section analyzes potential impacts to public utilities (water [demand and supply], storm drain, wastewater, solid waste disposal, and energy) that could result from implementation of the City of Santee (City) 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project). The sites included in the analysis are detailed in Table 3-2 and include 25 potential rezone housing sites and the two sites located on Graves Avenue, collectively referred to as the Rezone Sites. This evaluation is based on available reference material cited throughout the section, including regional and local studies and public documents.
4.14.1 Existing Conditions
4.14.1.1 Current and Projected Water Use Demands
Padre Dam Municipal Water District (PDMWD; District) is the service provider for the City. One hundred percent of PDMWD’s potable water supply is imported through the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA). The SDCWA is one of 26 Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) member agencies (PDMWD 2021).
PDMWD’s 2020 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) describes water demands of the agency’s customers, including the City. The actual demand for potable water throughout the service area is shown in Table 4.14-1.
Table 4.14-1
Retail: Demand for Potable and Non-Potable Water – Actual1 Land Use Type
2020 Actual
Additional Description
(as needed)
Level of Treatment
when Delivered Volume
Single-Family Municipal and Industrial Drinking Water 5,447 Multi-Family Municipal and Industrial Drinking Water 1,793 Commercial Municipal and Industrial Drinking Water 1,112 Institutional/Governmental Municipal and Industrial Drinking Water 191 Landscape Municipal and Industrial Drinking Water 362
Agricultural Irrigation Drinking Water 106
Other Construction Drinking Water 99
Other Unbilled Unmetered2 Drinking Water 30
Other Potable Supplement to Recycled Water System Drinking Water 18 Losses3 Drinking Water 431
Total 9,588 1
Water use by sector is summarized from billing records based on individual meter readings. 2Unbilled unmetered includes water flushing, sewer flushing, and firefighting. Values were obtained from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) Audit Report 2020 (PDMWD 2021:Appendix E). 3Losses obtained from AWWA Audit Report 2020 equates to approximately 449 acre-feet per year (PDMWD 2021:Appendix E). Potable supplement to recycled water was included as part of the losses in the audit. Thus, losses in this table are adjusted to reflect losses without the potable supplement to the recycled water system.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
As shown in Table 4.14-1 residential demands (single-family and multi-family) account for 7,240 acrefeet per year (AFY) or approximately 76 percent of the PDMWD’s total demand. The potable water demand projections are developed and are based on a combination of general plan land use information, specific plans in the service area, per capita water use, water demand factors, and future planned development information provided by City and other member agencies. Table 4.14-2 contains the projected potable water demands within and outside of the District boundaries from 2025 through 2045.
Table 4.14-2
Retail: Demand for Potable and Non-Potable Water – Projected Land Use Type
Projected Water Use1
2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Residential 7,438 8,217 9,004 9,683 10,070
Commercial 1,398 1,465 1,525 1,585 1,645
Institutional/Governmental 188 191 194 196 199
Landscape 357 579 730 817 822
Agricultural Irrigation 104 161 181 186 187
Other2 127 137 146 156 166
Losses3 442 449 455 461 468
Other Potable/Outside of District4 2,388 2,388 2,388 2,388 2,388 Total 12,442 13,586 14,623 15,473 15,944 1
Projections based on District’s Master Plan Update (in progress). 2Other category includes construction and water used for potable flushing, sewer flushing, and firefighting.
3Includes potable water supplement to recycled water.
4Outside of District includes the near-term annexations, which includes Viejas tribe, Ewiiaapaayp tribe, and the I-8 corridors outside of the District’s eastern boundary.
As shown in Table 4.14-2, the District potable water demand is anticipated to increase to 15,944 AFY by year 2045. It is noted that as temperatures rise due to global climate changes, water demands from various types of users will likely increase. The altered climate patterns in California creating hotter days and longer heat waves will increase customer water use and evaporative water losses.
The combination of a long-term reduction in water supply availability with a long-term increase in water demand and higher summer demand peaks will increase pressure on the District and SDCWA to meet demands (PDMWD 2021).
Conservation measures assist in reduction of demand. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) developed mandates for the State of California to conserve water due to the increase in drought frequency. Four methods were developed by DWR for agencies to calculate target water use in compliance with Senate Bill X7-7. The District utilizes Method 3, requiring the limited water use to not exceed 95 percent of the DWR’s target water use. Because of the ongoing conservation efforts of East County customers, the District has experienced a sustained per-capita average water use reduction of approximately 25 percent per capita water use since 2010 (City of Santee 2020).
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.14.1.2 Water Supply and Distribution System
Water supply sources for the District fall into two categories: (1) purchased or imported water; and (2) recycled water. Padre Dam produces two million gallons of recycled water a day at the Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility (WRF). With the exception of the recycled water produced, the District imports all water supply from SDCWA. This potable water supply is imported from the California State Water Project (SWP) (North Bay, South Bay, and California aqueducts) and the Colorado River (Los Angeles and Colorado River aqueducts) by Metropolitan. The water supply is treated at Metropolitan’s Skinner Treatment Plant near Temecula, California and then released into SDCWA’s system (PDMWD 2021).
The District is additionally looking to expand its recycled water supply and increase potable reuse to provide drought-proof sources of water. Currently, recycled water from Santee Lakes provides water supplies for irrigation purposes. However, potable reuse is projected to make up 17 percent of San Diego County’s drinking water supply by 2035. Padre Dam is currently working with Helix Water District, the City of El Cajon, and the County of San Diego on the East County Advanced Water Purification Project. This project would purify recycled water in order to create up to 30 percent of East County’s drinking water supply. Together with projects including Pure Water San Diego and Pure Water Oceanside, the East County Advanced Water Purification Project is anticipated to reduce San Diego County’s reliance on imported water over the long term.
The District relies on the SDCWA to acquire water transfer agreements, as needed, for water supply reliability during normal and dry year conditions. These water transfers consist of water purchases from Metropolitan, water transfers from Imperial Irrigation District that consist of water savings from canal lining projects that wheel water through Metropolitan’s conveyance facilities, and spot water transfers that are pursued on an as-needed basis to offset reductions in supplies from Metropolitan.
In addition to water imported through Metropolitan, SDCWA signed and amended an agreement (Water Authority-IID Water Conservation and Transfer Agreement) with the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) for long-term transfer of conserved Colorado River water. The term of the agreement is 45 years with a provision to extend for an additional 30 years (PDMWD 2021).
In 2012, SDCWA also entered into a formal Water Purchase Agreement with Poseidon Water to purchase desalinated ocean water at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant. The desalinated water is conveyed to SDCWA’s Twin Oaks Valley Water Treatment Plant and is mixed with existing drinking water supplies. The Carlsbad Desalination Plant is able to produce 56,000 AFY, of which 50,000 AFY is conveyed to SDCWA (PDMWD 2021).
The actual source and volume of water for the year 2020 is presented in Table 4.14-3. As shown in Table 4.14-3, the District's actual supply was approximately 11,338 AFY.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Table 4.14-3
Retail: Water Supplies – Actual
Water Supply
2020
Actual Volume (AFY) Water Quality
Purchased or Imported Water 9,588 Drinking Water
Recycled Water 1,750 Recycled Water
Total 11,338
SOURCE: PDMWD 2021.
The projected water supply in five-year increments is included in Table 4.14-4. The projected supply values are based on supplying normal demands and include the purchased water and recycled water supplies.
Table 4.14-4
Retail: Water Supplies – Projected
Land Use Type
Additional
Description
(as needed)
Project Water Use (Reasonably Available Volume)
2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Purchased or
Imported Water
In-District 6,054 7,198 8,235 9,085 9,556
Purchased or
Imported Water
Outside of District 2,388 2,388 2,388 2,388 2,388
Recycled Water n/a 1,232 1,232 1,232 1,232 1,232
Potable Reuse East County
Advanced Water
Purification Project
4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000
Total 13,674 14,818 15,855 16,705 17,176
SOURCE: PDMWD 2021.
4.14.1.3 Storm Drain System
The City’s drainage basins and storm drain conveyance system discharges both directly and indirectly to the San Diego River through the various creeks and channels such as Forester Creek and Sycamore Creek. These untreated discharges are then conveyed by the San Diego River westward to the Pacific Ocean, at Ocean Beach. The City establishes, maintains, and enforces adequate legal authority within its jurisdiction to control pollutant discharges into and from its storm drain system (City of Santee 2015). The City has approximately 1,400 storm drain inlets within residential areas, 114 inlets within commercially zoned areas, and 210 inlets within industrial zoned areas (City of Santee 2015).
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.14.1.4 Wastewater and Recycled Water System
a. Wastewater Collection, Treatment and Disposal
PDMWD provides wastewater collection and treatment services to the City. The PDMWD Sewer System Management Plan (2019) describes the District’s sewer collection, conveyance, and treatment system. The District’s wastewater collection system consists of sewer mains, lift stations, and flow diversion structures. The PDMWD service area contributed nearly 5,042 AFY of wastewater flow into the District’s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in 2020. The majority of the collected wastewater flows to the District’s Influent Pump Station. From there, up to 1,856 AFY of wastewater is pumped to the District’s Ray Stoyer WRF; the remaining flow is pumped to the City of San Diego's Metropolitan Wastewater System (Metro) where it ultimately receives advanced primary treatment at the Point Loma Wastewater Treatment Plant (PDMWD 2021).
The District has an effective operation and maintenance (O&M) program in place that includes cleaning, inspection, and monitoring of the sewer collection system. The O&M program is based on a proactive preventative maintenance approach to keep the collection system in good repair, preventing excessive infiltration/inflow, minimizing system failures which can lead to overflows, and protecting the capital investment in the collection system (PDMWD 2019). b. Recycled Water
The PDMWD’s existing recycled water system includes approximately 31 miles of distribution mains within the District’s Water Service Area. The key recycled water system facilities include the Ray Stoyer WRF, the Recycled Water Effluent Pump Station, and Fanita Terrace Reservoir (PDMWD 2021). The District’s recycled water customer base and associated demand steadily increased from 2001 to 2014 with a peak of 1,025 AFY in 2014. Since 2014, recycled water demands have decreased. In the year 2019-2020, the District served 250 customers with a combined recycled water demand of 780 AFY.
This total excludes the recycled water supply discharged to Santee Lakes.
Recycled water uses include landscape irrigation, including parks, medians, homeowners association landscapes, dust control, and recreational impoundment which is the replenishment and flushing of Santee Lakes. Table 4.14-5 provides the projected and actual uses for recycled water in the City of for the year 2020.
Table 4.14-5
Recycled Water Use in the PDMWD Service Area (2020)
(volumes in acre-feet)
Use Type 2020 Projected Use 2020 Actual Use
Landscape Irrigation 896 780
Recreational Impoundment 1,120 970
Total Water Use 2,016 1,750
SOURCE: PDMWD 2021.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
The PDMWD does not plan on expanding the future recycled water system; however, PDMWD is implementing a Phase I Water Recycling Project which includes the expansion of the Ray Stoyer Reclamation Facility, construction of a new advanced water purification facility, potable reuse conveyance pipelines, a product water pump station, and a biosolids digestion facility to offset energy demands of the project. It will create 3,900 acre-feet, or 127 million gallons, per year of potable water by capturing wastewater flows that would otherwise be discharged to the ocean.
Through the future Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program, PDMWD will generate potable reuse water for local surface water augmentation. The AWP Program is intended to deliver highly purified water to Lake Jennings, a reservoir owned and operated by the Helix Water District. As part of this program, PDMWD will no longer discharge recycled water into Santee Lakes; therefore, the recycled water use is anticipated to decrease further in future years (PDMWD 2021).
4.14.1.5 Solid Waste Disposal
The City’s franchise waste hauler, Waste Management, Inc., is responsible for the collection, removal, and disposal of solid waste for residential and commercial uses in the City. In addition, the hauler provides curbside recycling and yard waste collection, household hazardous waste disposal services, public education, and other services required to meet the waste management needs of the City. This includes the development of programs necessary to meet the state-mandated 50 percent waste reduction goal established by Assembly Bill (AB) 939 (the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989).
As of 2019, the waste disposal rate in California per resident was approximately 6.7 pounds per day and a recycling rate of 37 percent. Currently, most of the waste collected in the City is disposed at the approximately 603-acre Sycamore Landfill in the eastern portion of the city of San Diego.
According to the Solid Waste Information System database maintained by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), the landfill’s maximum permitted capacity is approximately 147,908,000 cubic yards, with a current remaining capacity of approximately 113,972,637 cubic yards as of 2019. Based on the remaining capacity and disposal rates, the Sycamore Landfill is expected to remain open until December 31, 2042 (CalRecycle 2021).
4.14.1.6 Utilities
a. Electric Power Facilities
The San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E) provides electricity to the San Diego region, including the City. The City is currently served with electricity through both aboveground and underground transmission lines within City streets.
b. Natural Gas Facilities
SDG&E provides natural gas to the San Diego region, including the City. The City is currently served with natural gas through underground gas mains within City streets.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
c. Telecommunications Facilities
The City is currently supplied with telecommunications services through various private companies.
The infrastructure is typically located underground in vaults and conduit and aboveground on overhead power lines with pole-mounted cables and transformers. Antennas may also be mounted in towers or on roofs.
4.14.2 Regulatory Framework
4.14.2.1 Federal
a. Telecommunications Act of 1966
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 amended the Communications Act of 1934. It provided major changes in laws affecting cable television, telecommunications, and the internet. The law’s main purpose is to stimulate competition in telecommunication services. The law specifies (1) how local telephone carriers can compete, (2) how and under what circumstances local exchange carriers can provide long-distance services, and (3) the deregulation of cable television services. b. Safe Drinking Water Act
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), passed by Congress in 1974, authorizes the federal government to set national standards for drinking water. These National Primary Drinking Water Regulations protect against both naturally occurring and man-made contaminants. The SDWA sets enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for drinking water, and all water providers in the United States, excluding private wells serving fewer than 25 people, must treat water to remove contaminants.
The 1986 amendments to the SDWA and the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act (CWA) established the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as the primary authority for water programs throughout the country. The USEPA is the federal agency responsible for providing clean and safe surface water, groundwater, and drinking water, and protecting and restoring aquatic ecosystems. USEPA Region 9 (Pacific Southwest) includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands (Northern Marianas, Guam, and American Samoa), and 148 Tribal Nations located within Arizona, California, and Nevada.
c. Clean Water Act
The CWA (33 United States Code Section 1251 et seq.) (1972) is the primary federal law that protects the nation’s waters, including lakes, rivers, aquifers, and coastal areas. The CWA established basic guidelines for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and requires that states adopt water quality standards to protect public health, enhance the quality of water resources, and ensure implementation of the CWA.
Section 401 of the CWA requires that any applicant for a federal permit to conduct any activity, including the construction or operation of a facility that may result in the discharge of any pollutant, must obtain certification from the state. Section 402 of the CWA established the National Pollutant
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) to regulate the discharge of pollutants from point sources.
The CWA was amended in 1987 to address urban runoff. One requirement of the amendment was the obligation for municipalities to obtain NPDES permits for discharges of urban runoff from their municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s).
4.14.2.1 State
a. Water and Wastewater
California Department of Public Health Drinking Water Program The California Department of Public Health Drinking Water Program conducts most enforcement activities related to water providers abiding by MCLs set by the SDWA. If a water system does not meet standards, it is the water supplier’s responsibility to notify its customers. The Drinking Water Program is within the Division of Drinking Water and Environmental Management, and San Diego falls under the Southern California Field Operation Branch in Region V, District 14. The Drinking Water Program is also responsible for the following tasks:
• Regulating public water systems;
• Certifying drinking water treatment and distribution operators; • Supporting and promoting water system security;
• Providing support for small water systems and for improving technical, managerial, and financial capacity; and
• Providing funding opportunities for water system improvements.
Department of Water Resources
The California DWR was established in 1956 and is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the California SWP. DWR is also responsible for:
• Overseeing the statewide process of developing and updating the California Water Plan (Bulletin 160 series);
• Protecting and restoring the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta; • Regulating dams, providing flood protection, and assisting in emergency management; • Educating the public about the importance of water and its proper use; and • Providing technical assistance to service local water needs.
California Water Plan (Update 2018)
The California Water Plan is the state’s strategic plan for managing and developing water resources statewide for current and future generations, as required by the California Water Code. The 2018 Update provides recommended actions, funding scenarios, and an investment strategy to bolster efforts by water and resource managers, planners, and decision-makers to overcome California’s water resource challenges.
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Urban Water Management Planning Act (California Water Code, Division 6, Part 2.6, Section 10610 et. seq.)
The Urban Water Management Planning Act was developed due to concerns for potential water supply shortages throughout California. It requires information on water supply reliability and wateruse efficiency measures. Urban water suppliers are required, as part of the act, to develop and implement UWMPs to describe their efforts to promote the efficient use and management of water resources.
Senate Bill 606 and Assembly Bill 1668
Signed in 2018, Senate Bill (SB) 606 and Assembly Bill (AB) 1668 emphasize efficiency and stretching existing water supplies throughout the state through the understanding that efficient water use is the most cost-effective way to achieve long-term conservation goals. Specifically, the bills call for creation of new urban efficiency standards for indoor use, outdoor use, and water lost leaks, as well as any appropriate variances for unique local conditions. The State Water Board is expected to adopt these standards by regulation no later than June 30, 2022.
California Senate Bill 1087: Sewer and Water Service Priority for Housing Affordable to Lower-Income Households (2006)
This statute requires local governments to provide a copy of the updated housing element to water and sewer providers immediately subsequent to adoption. Water and sewer providers must grant priority for service allocation to proposed development that includes housing units affordable to lower-income households. Additionally, UWMPs are required to include projected water use for future lower-income households.
California State Senate Bill 221 and Senate Bill 610 (January 2002) SB 610 requires water suppliers to prepare a Water Supply Assessment report for inclusion by land use agencies within the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process for new developments subject to SB 610. SB 221 requires water suppliers to prepare written verification that sufficient water supplies are planned to be available prior to approval of large-scale subdivisions. As defined in SB 221 and SB 610, large-scale projects include residential development projects that include more than 500 residential units and/or shopping centers or business establishments resulting in a net increase of more than 1,000 employees or more than 500,000 square feet of floor space.
Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill X7-7)
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill X7-7) was enacted in November 2009 and requires that all water suppliers increase their water use efficiency, requiring the state to reduce urban water consumption by 20 percent by the year 2020. The key purpose of the law is to encourage both urban and agricultural water providers to implement conservation strategies, monitor water usage, and report data to the DWR. The law sets goals and deadlines regarding when the implementations must occur and, in an attempt to encourage participation, makes water suppliers ineligible for state water grants or loans unless certain terms have been met.
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Senate Bill 7 Water Meters in Multi-Unit Structures
SB7, approved by the Governor in 2016, requires water meters and submeters to be installed in apartments and other rental housing buildings constructed after January 1, 2018. According to the law, owners of such properties must provide residents with accurate information about the volume and cost of their water use, and water bills must be based on actual usage rather than by estimation or other methodology. The purpose of the law is to encourage responsible water use and conservation in a state that is experiencing a multi-year drought. The legislation amended and added regulations to the Civil Code, the Health and Safety Code, and the Water Code, relating to housing. b. Stormwater
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Permits
The San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) regulates discharges from Phase I municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) in the San Diego region under the Regional MS4 Permit. The Regional MS4 Permit covers 39 municipal, county government, and special district entities (referred to jointly as “copermittees”) in the County of San Diego, southern County of Orange, and southwestern County of Riverside who own and operate large MS4s that discharge stormwater (wet weather) runoff and non-stormwater (dry weather) runoff to surface waters throughout the San Diego region. The Regional MS4 Permit, Order No. R9-2013-0001, was adopted on May 8, 2013, and initially covered the County of San Diego copermittees. Order No. R9-2015-0001 was adopted on February 11, 2015, amending the Regional MS4 Permit to extend coverage to the County of Orange copermittees. Finally, Order No. R9-2015-0100 was adopted on November 18, 2015, amending the Regional MS4 Permit to extend coverage to the County of Riverside copermittees. The City is 1 of 18 municipalities in the County of San Diego that is a copermittee. 2006 Waste Discharge Requirements Order
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) adopted Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sewer Systems (Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ). The intent of the order is to regulate all collections systems in the state in an effort to reduce or eliminate the number of sanitary sewer overflows which, by their nature, pollute the environment. A sanitary sewer overflow is any overflow, spill, release, discharge, or diversion of wastewater from a sewer system. The order is applicable for all publicly-owned sewage collection systems with more than one mile of sewer pipe. c. Solid Waste
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (Assembly Bill 939 and as amended by Assembly Bill 341)
AB 939, the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, establishes the current organization, structure, and mission of CalRecycle as an integrated waste management hierarchy that consists of the following (in order of importance): source reduction, recycling, composting, and land disposal of solid waste. AB 939 requires cities and counties in the state to reach a 50 percent waste reduction goal by the year 2000 and beyond. It also requires counties to develop an integrated
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
waste management plan that describes local waste diversion and disposal conditions, and lays out realistic programs to achieve the waste diversion goals.
Originally, the Integrated Waste Management Plan mandated to divert 25 percent of their solid waste by 1995 and 50 percent by 2000. AB 341 amends these requirements as follows: (1) CalRecycle to issue a report to the Legislature that includes strategies and recommendations that would enable the state to divert 75 percent of the solid waste generated in the state from disposal by January 1, 2020; (2) requires businesses that meet specified thresholds in the bill to arrange for recycling services by January 1, 2012; (3) streamlines the amendment process for non-disposal facility elements, by allowing changes without review and comment from a local task force; and (4) allows a solid waste facility to modify their existing permit, instead of having to undergo a permit revision, under specified circumstances.
Senate Bill 1383: CalRecycle Organics Regulation
In September 2016, the state set methane emission reduction targets for California in Senate Bill 1383, intended as a statewide effort to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (like organic waste) in various sectors of California’s economy. Specifically, SB 1383 establishes statewide targets to reduce the amount of organic waste disposed of in landfills (50 percent reduction by 2020 and 75 percent by 2025). It also sets a goal to rescue at least 20 percent of currently disposed edible food by 2025 and redirect that food to people in need. The new regulations will take effect in January 2022.
Assembly Bill 1826
In October 2014, Governor Brown signed AB 1826, Chesbro (Chapter 727, Statutes of 2014), requiring businesses to recycle their organic waste on and after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week. Organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, non-hazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste. Currently, businesses that generate 4 cubic yards or more of solid waste per week must have had an organic waste recycling program in place. Multi-family properties are regulated but only required to divert green waste and non-hazardous wood waste. This law also requires local jurisdictions across the state to implement an organic waste recycling program to divert organic waste generated by businesses, including certain multi-family residential units, starting on January 1, 2016. An exemption process is available for rural counties.
Senate Bill 1374
SB 1374 seeks to assist jurisdictions with diverting their construction and demolition (C&D) waste material with a primary focus on CalRecycle developing and adopting a model C&D diversion ordinance for voluntary use by California jurisdictions. CalRecycle adopted such an ordinance at its March 16, 2004, meeting. In 2011, the City adopted an ordinance to promote the recycling of C&D debris to meet the City’s obligations under AB 939 and the California Green Buildings Standards Code.
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4.14.2.2 Local
a. Metropolitan Water District of Southern California Urban Water Management Plan (2020)
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) demonstrates its ability to meet expected water demands in the region for the next quarter century, even under drought conditions, through its Urban Water Management Plan. Required by the state, the plan provides a summary of Metropolitan’s anticipated water demands and supplies through 2045 and shows we will meet demands under normal water years, single dry-years, and five-year drought sequences. At the center of Metropolitan’s 2020 UWMP plan is its diverse portfolio of water resources, including imported supplies from the Colorado River and State Water Project; local projects offering water recycling and groundwater recovery; short- and long-term water transfers; storage, both inside and outside of the region; and continued investment in water-use efficiency and demand management. b. Padre Dam Urban Water Management Plan (2020)
Padre Dam's Urban Water Management Plan addresses the District’s water system and includes a description of the water supply sources, magnitudes of historical and projected water use and a comparison of water supply and water demands during normal, single-dry, and multiple-dry years.
The State legislature requires the document to contain a detailed evaluation of the supplies necessary to reliably meet demands over at least a 20-year period in both normal and dry years. The 2020 Urban Water Management Plan serves as the long-term guide to ensure a safe and reliable water supply for the District’s population of more than 103,000. Padre Dam additionally has a Water Shortage Contingency Plan (PDMWD 2020) that outlines planned water shortage response levels and actions that would be taken in the event of potable water shortages. Shortage levels 1 through 6 are defined along with associated demand reduction actions. c. Santee General Plan
The City of Santee contains policies related to storm water, wastewater, water distribution system, water use, solid waste disposal, and the provision of public utilities. Pertinent goals and policies are listed below:
Land Use Element
Objective 3.0: Provide and maintain the highest level of service possible for all community public services and facilities.
• Policy 3.1: The City should ensure that land divisions and developments are approved within the City only when a project's improvements, dedications, fees and other revenues to the City and other agencies fully cover the project's incremental costs to the City and other agencies. These costs are for providing new or upgraded capital improvements and other public facilities and equipment resulting from, and attributable to the project, which are necessary to protect and promote the public’s health, safety and welfare and to implement feasible mitigation measures. Such facilities include, but are not limited to: parks, bridges,
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
major roads, traffic signals, street lights, drainage systems, sewers, water, flood control, fire, police, schools, hiking/bicycle trails and other related facilities. In calculating benefits of land divisions and developments, the City may consider other public objectives and goals including social, economic (job creation, secondary economic benefits, etc.) and environmental factors.
• Policy 3.2: The City should encourage the development and use of recycled water for appropriate land uses to encourage the conservation of, and reduce demand for, potable water.
• Policy 3.6: Development projects shall be reviewed to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project and that any land use incompatibilities or impacts resulting from public utilities shall be mitigated to the maximum extent possible.
Safety Element
Objective 3.0: Minimize the risk of damage to persons, property and the environment caused by hazardous materials.
• Policy 3.8: Promote safe, environmentally sound means of solid waste disposal for the community.
• Policy 3.9: Investigate ways to encourage businesses to recycle their waste. d. City of Santee Best Management Practices Design Manual The City’s Best Management Practices (BMP) Design Manual provides guidelines for compliance with on-site post-construction stormwater requirements in the Regional MS4 Permit and assists the land development community by streamlining project reviews and maximizing cost-effective environmental benefits, meeting performance standards specified in the Regional MS4 Permit. By following the process outlined in the BMP Design Manual, applicants (for both private and public developments) can develop a single integrated design that complies with the Regional MS4 Permit source control and site design requirements, stormwater pollutant control requirements (i.e., water quality), and hydromodification management (flow control and sediment supply) requirements. e. Municipal Code
The City’s primary legal authority for requiring construction projects to implement water quality control measures are set forth in Chapters 9.06, 11.40, and 12.30 of the Santee Municipal Code.
Chapter 9.06, Stormwater Management and Discharge Control The purposes of Chapter 9.06, Storm Water Ordinance, are as follows (City of Santee 2020):
1. Effectively prohibiting non-stormwater discharges to the stormwater conveyance system.
2. Eliminating illicit discharges and illicit connections to the stormwater conveyance system.
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3. Reducing the discharge of pollutants from the stormwater conveyance system, to the maximum extent practicable in order to achieve applicable water quality objectives for surface waters in San Diego County.
4. Achieving compliance with Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) regulations.
Ultimately, the intent of this chapter is to protect and enhance the water quality of our watercourses, water bodies, and wetlands in a manner pursuant to and consistent with the Clean Water Act (CWA), Porter-Cologne Act, and Regional MS4 Permit.
Chapter 11.40, Excavation and Grading
This chapter establishes minimum requirements for grading, excavating, and filling of land and provides water quality protection provisions. It also provides for the issuance of permits and provides for the enforcement of the chapter provisions.
Chapter 12.30, Development Impact Fees
There are several development impact fees in the Santee Municipal Code. These fees impose on new development the costs of constructing public facilities, which are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development. The drainage fee, in particular, provides funds for the installation of needed drainage improvements identified in the City of Santee Citywide Drainage Study prepared by BSI Consultants dated February 1990 (BSI Consultants 1990). Section 12.30.160 in the Santee Municipal Code includes how fees are calculated depending on land use types (City of Santee 2020).
4.14.3 Significance Determination Thresholds
Consistent with Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, impacts to utilities and service systems would be significant if the project would:
1) Threshold 1: Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, stormwater drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities which could cause significant environmental effects. 2) Threshold 2: Not have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years. 3) Threshold 3: Result in determination by the wastewater provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments.
4) Threshold 4: 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.
5) Threshold 5: Not comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste.
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4.14.4 Methodology
The potential for significant impacts associated with the project has been determined based upon review of existing secondary source information, including the Padre Dam Urban Water Management Plan, the City’s BMP Design Manual, and applicable regulations discussed in Section 4.14.2. Specific utility requirements of individual projects are not assessed as no specific development project is proposed. Rather, the analysis addresses anticipated utility demand and associated environmental impacts programmatically to identify whether existing regulations, including implementation of the Housing Overlay would adequately address impacts associated with the provision of required utilities and services.
4.14.5 Issue 1: Utility Infrastructure
Would the project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects?
4.14.5.1 Impact Analysis
The project would result in the adoption of rezones required to implement the 6th Cycle Housing Element as described in Table 3-2. The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Potential physical impacts associated with future utility infrastructure needs is described below.
a. Water
Development anticipated in the Rezone Sites would occur within areas of the City that are already served by existing water utility infrastructure. Expansion of water infrastructure is not anticipated to adequately serve future development beyond lateral connections to serve individual projects. While future Rezone Sites would require connection to existing water pipelines, localized water utility infrastructure improvements and relocations would be evaluated upon submittal of project specific development plans. All future project applications, whether discretionary or ministerial would be required to comply with relevant City regulations and adhere to the mitigation framework presented in this PEIR, including MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO-1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MM-GEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS3, and MM-TRA-1, which would ensure that any physical impacts associated with construction of pipeline connections to existing water infrastructure would be addressed as part of the City review for each individual project. Additionally, future projects would be required to comply with General Plan policies including Land Use Element Policy 3.6, which requires the review of development projects to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project.
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b. Wastewater
Development anticipated in the Rezone Sites would occur within areas of the City that are already served by existing wastewater utility infrastructure and no expansion of existing facilities would be required to serve the project. Although future Rezone Sites would require localized connection to existing wastewater pipelines, wastewater utility infrastructure improvements and relocations would be evaluated upon submittal of project specific development plans. All future project applications, whether discretionary or ministerial would be required to comply with relevant City regulations and adhere to the mitigation framework presented in this PEIR, including MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MM-GEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS-3, and MM-TRA-1, which would ensure that any physical impacts associated with construction of pipeline connections to wastewater infrastructure would be addressed as part of the City review for each individual project. Additionally, future projects would be required to comply with General Plan policies including Land Use Element Policy 3.6, which requires the review of development projects to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project.
c. Stormwater
Development anticipated in the Rezone Sites would occur within areas of the City that are already served by existing stormwater infrastructure. Existing stormwater infrastructure would be able to accommodate post project stormwater flows considering existing requirements for detention and on-site infiltration. Although future Rezone Sites would require connection to existing stormwater facilities, localized stormwater infrastructure improvements would be evaluated upon submittal of project specific development plans. All future project applications, whether discretionary or ministerial would be required comply with relevant City regulations and adhere to the mitigation framework presented in this PEIR, including MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO-1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MM-GEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS-3, and MM-TRA-1, which would ensure that any physical impacts associated with construction of pipeline connections to existing water infrastructure would be addressed as part of the City review for each individual project. Additionally, future projects would be required to comply with General Plan policies including Land Use Element Policy 3.6, which requires the review of development projects to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project.
It is further noted that future projects would be required to design all on-site storm water facilities to comply with the City’s BMP Design Manual. As discussed in greater detail in Section 4.8 of this Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR), adherence to the BMP Design Manual ensures new development and redevelopment provide adequate storm water facilities that are compatible with existing City systems and conform to all performance standards presented in the MS4 permit.
Physical impacts of all utility improvements would be addressed as part of the future project-specific applications and appropriate mitigation for impacts would be applied consistent with this PEIR. d. Electric Power, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications
Development anticipated in the Rezone Sites would occur within areas of the City that are already served by existing electrical, natural gas, and telecommunications utility infrastructure. Although
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.14 Utilities and Service Systems City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
future Rezone Sites would require connection to these existing facilities, localized utility infrastructure improvements and relocations would be evaluated upon submittal of project specific development plans. All future project applications, whether discretionary or ministerial would be required to comply with relevant City regulations and adhere to the mitigation framework presented in this PEIR, including MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO-1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MM-GEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS-3, and MMTRA-1, which would ensure that any physical impacts associated with construction of connections to existing electrical, natural gas, and telecommunications utility infrastructure would be addressed as part of the City review for each individual project. Additionally, future projects would be required to comply with General Plan policies including Land Use Element Policy 3.6, which requires the review of development projects to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project.
4.14.5.2 Significance of Impacts
Future development at the Rezone Sites is located within existing developed areas with access to utility infrastructure. No development is proposed as part of the project; however, it is anticipated that future projects would require only localized utility extensions or improvements. No major upgrades or expansions to Citywide infrastructure is anticipated to serve the project’s water, wastewater, stormwater or other utility needs. Any localized connections would be evaluated as part of each site-specific development proposal. All projects whether discretionary or ministerial would be reviewed for conformance with local regulations and adherence to General Plan policies; however, physical impacts associated with localized utility infrastructure improvements and relocations associated with the future development of the Rezone Sites could result in significant impacts (Impact UTIL-1).
4.14.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Mitigation is proposed for implementation of both discretionary and by-right development projects.
Mitigation would be either be applied during a future discretionary review or for by-right development, would be applied as a requirement of the City’s objective design and performance standards adopted as part of the project. Future development of Rezone Sites would require implementation of the following mitigation framework:
See MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO-1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MMGEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS-3, and MM-TRA-1.
4.14.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts associated with the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities would be would be reduced to a level less than significant with implementation of the mitigation framework MM-VIS-1, MM-AQ-1, MM-BIO-1 through MM-BIO-6, MM-CUL-1 through MM-CUL-3, MM-GEO-1, MM-GHG-1 and MM-GHG-2, MM-HAZ-1, MM-NOS-1 through MM-NOS-3, and MMTRA-1.
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4.14.6 Issue 2: Water Supply
Would the project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years?
4.14.6.1 Impact Analysis
As shown in Table 4.14-2, water use within the PDMWD service area is projected to be 12,442 AFY in 2025 increasing to 15,944 AFY in 2045. Residential demands account for 7,438 AFY (or 60 percent) of the total projected 2025 demand and 10,070 AFY (or 63 percent) of the total projected 2045 demand. The estimate is based on SANDAG demographic estimates included in the PDWMD UWMP (PDMWD 2020) which included the anticipated increase in population from 92,434 in 2020 to 117,701 by the year 2045. The project would add an additional 1,209 multi-family housing units compared to what would be allowed under the City’s existing General Plan/Zoning. The increase in population associated with the project would be consistent with the anticipated population increase analyzed in the PDMWD UWMP. As shown in Table 4.14-4, water supplies are projected to exceed the needs of the PDMWD service area and would adequately cover the demands of the project. Specific projected demands related to normal, dry and multiple dry years are discussed in the PDMWD UWMP (2020).
As shown therein, with continued conservation, the use of recycled water, and the addition of added supply with the upcoming AWP Project, supplies are projected to meet demands through year 2045 under average year, single-dry year, and for a five-consecutive-year drought conditions.
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with the proposed rezones. Buildout potential within the Rezone Sites could result in the construction of up to 1,945 residential dwelling units that have not all been specifically accounted for within the latest PDMWD planning documents. UWMPs are required to be updated on a five-year cycle and the next update to the PDMWD UWMP is anticipated by 2025. Future UWMP updates would account for the anticipated water use associated with future development consistent with any adopted rezones. While the proposed rezones would add development potential within the City, the increase water demand would be covered in the water district’s projected water supplies. Additionally, it is noted that higher density residential development is more water efficient than single-family residential.
Existing regulations would ensure water-efficient fixtures are installed with new development. The California Green Building Standards Code requires 20 percent reduction in indoor water use relative to specified baseline levels. Santee Municipal Code Section 13.10.040 provides minimum standards for residential development and requires that all appliances and fixtures shall be energy conserving (e.g., reduced consumption showerheads, water conserving toilets, etc.). The requirements for the energy efficiency of buildings are set forth in the current California Energy Code for Climate Zone 10 in which the City is located. Additionally, all new residential units, including accessory dwelling units, shall meet or exceed California Green Building Standards Tier 2 Voluntary Measures.
Additionally, all future projects would be required to adhere to the following ongoing water conservation measures mandated by the PDMWD as authorized by Water Code sections 375 et seq.:
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• Stop washing down paved surfaces, including but not limited to sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or patios, except when it is necessary to alleviate safety or sanitation hazards.
• Stop water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation, such as runoff, low head drainage, or overspray, etc. Similarly, stop water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures. Irrigation runoff is prohibited.
• Irrigate residential and commercial landscape before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. only. • Do not irrigate while it is raining and within 48 hours after it rains. • Use a hand-held hose equipped with a positive shut-off nozzle or bucket to water landscaped areas, including trees and shrubs located on residential and commercial properties that are not irrigated by a landscape irrigation system.
• Use recirculated or recycled water to operate ornamental fountains, ponds, and similar decorative water features.
• Wash vehicles using a bucket and a hand-held hose with positive shut-off nozzle, mobile high pressure/low volume wash system, or at a commercial site that re-circulates (reclaims) water on-site. Boats and boat engines may be washed down immediately after use using a bucket or hand-held hose with positive shut-off nozzle. Runoff is prohibited. • Repair all water leaks within five days of notification by Padre Dam unless other arrangements are made with the CEO/General Manager. Severe water leaks must be stopped immediately. • Use recycled or non-potable water for construction purposes, such as dust control and soil compaction, when available and required by Padre Dam (PDMWD 2020).
Based on the PDMWD estimated water supply, water efficiency of multi-family development, water conservation requirements, along with existing regulations that require new construction to be water efficient, it is not anticipated that the project would affect the ability of PDMWD to plan for adequate water supplies within the City during normal, dry, and multiple dry years.
4.14.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Future residential projects anticipated in the Rezone Sites would be required to adhere to state and local water conservation and efficiency measures. Based on the water efficiency of multi-family development and existing regulations that require new construction to be water efficient, future development consistent with the proposed rezones would affect the ability of PDMWD to plan for adequate water supplies within the City during normal, dry, and multiple dry years. Impacts would be less than significant.
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4.14.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.14.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts related to water supply would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.14.7 Issue 3: Wastewater Treatment
Would the project result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
4.14.7.1 Impact Analysis
Development anticipated in the Rezone Sites would occur within areas of the City that are already served by existing wastewater infrastructure, including pipelines to the PDMWD WWTP and WRF.
Although future development within the Rezone Sites would require connection to existing wastewater infrastructure within surrounding roadways and result in additional wastewater generation, the PDMWD is currently implementing plans to expand the Ray Stoyer Reclamation Facility, which would allow for treatment of wastewater for potable use that would otherwise be discharged to the ocean. Thus, additional capacity improvements would not be anticipated with the project as wastewater flows would ultimately be managed as a potable resource or a recycled water resource. Furthermore, as discussed in response to Issue 2, higher density residential development would generally be more water efficient that lower density residential and all new development would be subject to water conservation requirements that would help to minimize wastewater flows.
All future project applications, whether discretionary or ministerial would be required to adhere to the City’s Municipal Code which requires the assurance of adequate water facilities through payment of development impact fees for the constructing public facilities, which are reasonably related to the impacts of the new development (SMC Chapter 12.30). Additionally, future projects would be required to comply with General Plan policies including Land Use Element Policy 3.6, which requires the review of development projects to ensure that all necessary utilities are available to serve the project.
4.14.7.2 Significance of Impacts
Future development at the Rezone Sites is located within existing developed areas with access to utility infrastructure. No development is proposed as part of the project; however, it is anticipated that future projects would generate wastewater that would add to the providers existing commitments. Based on the PDMWD existing facility capacity and expansion plans for the Ray Stoyer WRF in addition to the water efficiency of multi-family residential development, the project would not result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider that it does not have adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments.
All projects whether discretionary or ministerial would be reviewed for conformance with local
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regulations and adherence to General Plan policies. Therefore, through regulatory conformance, impacts associated with the adequacy of infrastructure and capacity related to wastewater services would be less than significant.
4.14.7.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.14.7.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts associated with the adequacy of infrastructure and capacity related to wastewater services would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.14.8 Issues 4 and 5: Solid Waste
Would the project 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? Would the project comply with federal, state, or local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
4.14.8.1 Impact Analysis
Although waste generation associated with multi-family development is generally less than singlefamily homes, future development within the Rezone Sites would increase solid waste generation throughout the City due to the increase in the number of overall residential units that would be allowed with the proposed rezones. CalRecycle (2019) defines multi-family development as having a waste generation rate of 4 pounds/dwelling unit/day. The project would add an additional 1,209 multi-family housing units compared to what would be allowed under the City’s existing General Plan/Zoning. The addition of 1,209 multi-family housing units would increase solid waste generation by 4,836 pounds per day. As detailed above, the Sycamore Landfill is expected to remain open until December 31, 2042 with current remaining capacity of approximately 113,972,637 cubic yards as of December 31, 2016. Future projects, whether discretionary or ministerial, would be required to adhere to state and local regulations relating to solid waste and recycling. Specifically, the City is required to meet solid waste diversion goals set forth in the California Integrated Waste Management Act which would decrease waste delivered to the landfill. Additional measures for the reduction of solid waste includes goals set by the state to reduce organic waste disposed of in landfills. The City would require future development to contract with available solid waste service providers that would provide the required solid waste disposal, including recycling and organic material recycling to meet exiting State and local requirements. Future projects would also be required to comply with General Plan Safety Element Policy 3.8 which promotes the safe, environmentally sound means of solid waste disposal for the community.
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4.14.8.2 Significance of Impacts
Future development at the Rezone Sites is located within existing developed areas with access to solid waste disposal services. No development is proposed as part of the project; however, it is anticipated that future projects would result in an increased in solid waste generation. Solid waste requirements associated with the future development of the Rezone Sites would be evaluated upon submittal of project specific development plans. All projects whether discretionary or ministerial would be reviewed for conformance with state and local regulations and adherence to General Plan policies. Therefore, through regulatory conformance, impacts associated with the solid waste disposal and capacity would be less than significant.
4.14.8.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.14.8.4 Significance After Mitigation
Impacts associated with solid waste disposal and capacity would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
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4.15 Wildfire
This section analyzes potential wildfire hazard conditions that could result from implementation of the City of Santee (City) 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project). The sites included in the analysis are detailed in Table 3-2 and include 25 potential rezone housing sites and the two sites located on Graves Avenue, collectively referred to as the Rezone Sites. The evaluation identifies existing potential wildfire conditions and addresses whether buildout of the project could result in exacerbating wildfires.
4.15.1 Existing Conditions
4.15.1.1 Climate
The Pacific Ocean influences the Inland County of San Diego (County) and the City’s weather, and are frequently under the influence of a seasonal, migratory subtropical high-pressure cell known as the “Pacific High”. Wet winters and dry summers with mild seasonal changes characterize the southern California climate. The local climate, which has a large influence on wildfire risk, is typical of a Mediterranean area. The climate pattern is occasionally interrupted by extreme periods of hot weather, winter storms, or dry, easterly Santa Ana winds. The average high temperature for the City during July is around 88 degrees Fahrenheit (°F). Precipitation typically occurs between December through April with 12 inches of rain per year. The prevailing wind is an on-shore flow from the Pacific Ocean, which is approximately 15 miles to the west.
Hot, dry Santa Ana winds, which typically occur in the fall, but have in recent years also occurred in the spring (May, in particular), are usually from the northeast and can gust to speeds of 50 miles per hour or higher. The Santa Ana winds are the result of occasional pressure gradients between the high pressure in the plateaus of the Great Basin and the lower pressure gradient over the Pacific Ocean (Murphee et al. 2018). Drying vegetation with fuel moisture of less than 5 percent for smaller fuels (which dry faster than larger fuels) is possible during the summer months and becomes fuel available to advancing flames should an ignition occur. Extreme conditions include 92°F temperatures in summer and winds of up to 50 miles per hour during the fall based on worst-case conditions from County data sets during the Cedar Fire (in 2003). Relative humidity of 12 percent or less is possible during fire season.
4.15.1.2 Vegetation (Fuels)
As discussed in PEIR Section 4.7.6, the potential for wildland fires represents a hazard where development is adjacent to open space or within close proximity to wildland fuels. Vegetation is important relative to wildfire as some vegetation, such as grassland habitats, are highly flammable while other vegetation, such as chaparral and oak riparian forest, may be more difficult to ignite but would burn under more intense fire conditions. The City’s steep scrub brush-covered hillsides, and surrounding vacant land create areas of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) as shown in Figure 4.7-3. Specifically, Rezone Sites 1 through 10, and 35 are located within the City’s VHFHSZ.
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Additionally, much of the City is included in the wildland-urban interface area (WUIA) as shown in Figure 4.7-4. Housing Sites 11, 12, 15, 19, 29, and 30 are located within the WUIA.
4.15.1.3 Fire History
Fire history information provides an understanding of fire frequency, fire type, most vulnerable project areas, and significant ignition sources. Fire history represented in this section uses the Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP) database. FRAP summarizes fire perimeter data dating to the late 1800s but is incomplete because it only includes fires over 10 acres in size and does not have complete perimeter data, especially for the first half of the twentieth century.
There have been 65 fires recorded by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) since 1910 (CAL FIRE 2018) in the Santee area. In total, 16 fires ranging from 25 acres (unnamed 1974 fire) to 280,276 acres (Cedar Fire in 2003) are noted to have burned in the area. The most notable fire, the Cedar Fire, occurred during October and November 2003, and burned large areas of central San Diego County.
Based on fire history data for the City, fire return intervals range between 1 and 25 years. This indicates significant wildfire potential in the region and the potential for occasional wildfire encroachment, most likely from the large expanses of open space.
4.15.2 Regulatory Framework
The following section discusses applicable state and local regulations pertaining to wildfire. There are no federal wildfire regulations that apply.
4.15.2.1 State
a. California Building Code
The California Building Code (California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24, Part 2) contains regulations that must be followed to satisfy minimum acceptable levels of safety for buildings and non-building structures. Chapter 7A focuses primarily on fire-resistive construction methods for exterior wildfire exposure for preventing ember penetration into buildings, which is a leading cause of structure loss from wildfires.
b. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CAL FIRE protects the people of California from fires, responds to emergencies, and protects and enhances more than 31 million acres of California’s privately owned wildlands. CAL FIRE’s firefighters, fire engines, and aircraft which responded to 8.112 wildland fires in 2020, which burned approximately 1,443,152 acres (CAL FIRE 2021). As part of the CAL FIRE team since 1995, the Office of the State Fire Marshal supports the CAL FIRE mission to protect life and property through fire prevention engineering programs, law, and code enforcement and education.
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c. California Fire Code
The California Fire Code (CCR Title 24, Part 9) contains regulations consistent with nationally recognized accepted practices for safeguarding, to a reasonable degree, life and property from the hazards of the following: fire and explosion; hazardous conditions in the use or occupancy of buildings or premises; and dangerous conditions arising from the storage, handling, and use of hazardous materials and devices. It also contains provisions to assist emergency response personnel.
The California Fire Code and the California Building Code use a hazard classification system to determine what protective measures are required to protect fire and life safety. These measures may include construction standards, separations from property lines, and specialized equipment. d. California Public Resources Code
Fire Hazard Severity Zones – California Public Resources Code, Sections 4201–4204 California Public Resources Code, Sections 4201–4204 applies to state responsibility areas, and Government Code Sections 51175–89 direct CAL FIRE to map areas of significant fire hazards based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors. The Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZs) define the application of various mitigation strategies to reduce risk associated with wildland fires. Fire hazard designations are based on topography, vegetation, and weather, among other factors, with higher hazard category sites including steep terrain, unmaintained fuels/vegetation, and WUIA locations. Projects situated in VHFHSZs require fire hazard analysis and application of fire protection measures that have been developed to specifically result in defensible communities in these WUIA locations.
California Strategic Fire Plan
The California Strategic Fire Plan is a cooperative effort between the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection and CAL FIRE. By placing the emphasis on what needs to be done long before a fire starts, the California Strategic Fire Plan looks to reduce firefighting costs and property losses, increase firefighter safety, and contribute to ecosystem health. The Strategic Fire Plan has a vision for a natural environment that is more fire resilient, buildings and infrastructure that are more fire resistant, and a society that is more aware of and responsive to the benefits and threats of wildland fire—all achieved through local, state, federal, tribal, and private partnerships (CAL FIRE 2018). e. Senate Bill 1241
In 2012, Senate Bill 1241 added Section 66474.02 to Title 7, Division 2, of the California Government Code, commonly known as the “Subdivision Map Act.” The statute prohibits subdivision of parcels designated very high fire hazard, or that are in a State Responsibility Area, unless certain findings are made prior to approval of the Vesting Tentative Map. The statute requires that a city or county planning commission make three new findings regarding fire hazard safety before approving a subdivision proposal. The three findings are (1) the design and location of the subdivision and its lots are consistent with defensible space regulations found in California Public Resources Code, Section 4290–91; (2) structural fire protection services would be available for the subdivision through a publicly funded entity; and (3) ingress and egress street standards for fire equipment are met per any applicable local ordinance and California Public Resources Code, Section 4290.
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
f. State Fire Regulations
Fire regulations for California are established in Sections 13000 et seq. of the California Health and Services Code (California Health & Safety Code Section 13000) and include regulations for structural standards (similar to those identified in the California Building Code); fire protection and public notification systems; fire protection devices, such as extinguishers and smoke alarms; standards for high-rise structures and childcare facilities; and fire suppression training.
4.15.2.2 Regional
a. County of San Diego Code of Regulatory Ordinances, Sections 96.1.005 and
96.1.202, Removal of Fire Hazard
The County Fire Authority, in partnership with CAL FIRE, the Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service, is responsible for the enforcement of defensible space inspections. Inspectors are responsible for ensuring that adequate defensible space has been created and maintained around structures. City businesses are required to undergo an annual fire prevention inspection. These inspections are to ensure compliance with fire codes and City Fire Code Amendments. Inspections provide an opportunity for the City's fire personnel to identify potential ignition sources of fire prior to an event and to familiarize themselves with various building layouts throughout the City. The City contracts with Fire Prevention Services to perform routine defensible space inspections and the program is managed by Code Compliance in Santee. If violations of the program requirements are noted, inspectors list the required corrective measures and provide a reasonable time frame in which to complete the task. If violations still exist upon re-inspection, the local fire inspector will forward a complaint to the County for further enforcement action. b. San Diego County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan The purpose of the County’s Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MHMP: County of San Diego 2017) is to identify the County’s hazards, review and assess past disaster occurrences, estimate the probability of future occurrences, and set goals to mitigate potential risks to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural and human-made hazards. The City participates in the MHMP. An important component of the plan is the Community Emergency Response Team, which educates community members about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations. The City is one of 20 jurisdictions that support and participate in the team. c. County of San Diego Emergency Operations Plan
The County’s Emergency Operations Plan dictates who is responsible for an evacuation effort and how regional resources will be requested and coordinated. First responders are responsible for determining initial protective actions before the Emergency Operations Center and emergency management personnel have an opportunity to convene and gain situational awareness. Initial protective actions are shared and communicated to local Emergency Operations Centers and necessary support agencies as soon as possible to ensure an effective, coordinated evacuation.
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
During an evacuation effort, the designated County Evacuation Coordinator is the County Sheriff, who is also the Law Enforcement Coordinator. The County Evacuation Coordinator is assisted by other law enforcement and support agencies.
4.15.2.3 Local
a. Santee Emergency Operations Plan
On August 12, 2020, City Council approved the updated City Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to provide a framework to use in performing emergency functions before, during, and after an emergency event, natural disaster, or technological incident. The EOP is based on the San Diego County Operational Area Emergency Plan, but designed to meet the needs of the City with respect to organizational structure and the City’s top hazards. This plan establishes the emergency organization and addresses the coordination of emergency response activities. The goal of this plan is to provide for a coordinated effective response to ensure the protection of life, property, and the environment.
The EOP is based on a whole community approach. This concept is a process by which residents, emergency management representatives, organizational and community leaders, and government officials can understand and assess the needs of their respective communities and determine the best ways to organize and strengthen their resources, capacities, and interests. Under the EOP, the Santee Fire Department and Police Department work together to provide coordinated training on procedures and processes for managing emergency incidents. b. General Plan
The City’s General Plan Safety Element contains policies related to the reduction loss of life, injuries, and damage to property resulting from fire. Relevant policies are listed below.
Safety Element
• Policy 4.1: Proposed development should be approved only after it is determined that there will be adequate water pressure to maintain the required fire flow at the time of development. • Policy 4.2: The City should ensure that all new development meets established response time standards for fire and life safety services.
• Policy 4.4: The City shall require emergency access routes in all developments to be adequately wide to allow the entry and maneuvering of emergency vehicles. • Policy 4.7: The City shall ensure that the distribution of fire hydrants and capacity of water lines is adequate through periodic review.
• Policy 4.8: Encourage and support the delivery of a high level of emergency services through cooperation with other agencies and use of available financial opportunities.
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City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
• Policy 4.9: All proposed development shall satisfy the minimum structural fire protection standards contained in the adopted edition of the Uniform Fire and Building Codes; however, where deemed appropriate the City shall enhance the minimum standards to provide optimum protection.
• Policy 4.10: Encourage the continued development, implementation, and public awareness of fire prevention programs.
• Policy 4.12: The timing of additional fire station construction or renovation, or new services shall relate to the rise of service demand in the City and surrounding areas. • Policy 4.15: In order to minimize fire hazards the Santee Fire and Life Safety Department shall routinely be involved in the review of development applications. Considerations shall be given to adequate emergency access, driveway widths, turning radii, fire hydrant locations and needed fire flow requirements.
c. Municipal Code
Chapter 11.18 of the City’s Municipal Code adopts the 2019 California Fire Code, Part 9, Title 24, of the California Code of Regulations. The California Fire Code includes regulations requiring all new commercial or residential development to install sprinkler systems, the minimum required unobstructed street widths for fire apparatus access, and requirements that include a Fire Protection Plan for development in WUIA. The City requires a minimum of 26 feet width for fire apparatus access roadways throughout the City which is more restrictive than the California Fire Code. Ordinance 570 amended the City’s Municipal Code to formally adopt the 2019 California Fire Code as the City’s Fire Code.
4.15.3 Significance Determination Thresholds
Consistent with Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, impacts related to wildfire would be significant if the project would:
1) Threshold 1: Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
2) Threshold 2: Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or uncontrolled spread of wildfire.
3) Threshold 3: 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. 4) Threshold 4: Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope stability, or drainage changes.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.15 Wildfire
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.15.4 Methodology
The impact evaluation of potential impacts associated with wildfire consisted of a review of secondary sources, including the City’s adopted VHFHSZ map.
4.15.5 Issue 1: Emergency Response Plans
Would the project substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
4.15.5.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or other development; rather it provides capacity for future development consistent with state Housing Element Law. Buildout of the Rezone Sites would increase density and create new mixed-use and residential mixed-use development throughout the City, resulting in greater population concentrations within these redeveloped neighborhoods. This could result in an increase in demand on emergency evacuation.
The project does not propose any changes in the City’s existing circulation network, and no land uses are proposed that would impair implementation of or physically interfere with the City’s emergency response plan, evacuation routes, or conflict with any of the MHMP specific hazard mitigation goals, objectives, and related actions. Specifically, the MHMP requires each jurisdiction to develop and publish evacuation procedures that are available to the public. The City provides educational materials related to emergency preparedness. All residents of the City have access to the materials, as well all Community Emergency Response Team training and information.
Furthermore, applications for all future projects within the e Rezone Sites, whether discretionary or by-right, would be reviewed and approved by the City’s Fire Department prior to issuance of building permit to ensure consistency with fire standards and regulations (Fire Code). Additionally, future development would be required to adhere to the City’s General Plan (Safety Element) policies including, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.11, and 4.12 which address emergency response and emergency evacuation.
Therefore, buildout of the Rezone Sites and Graves Avenue Rezone Sites would not conflict with emergency response, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.15.5.2 Significance of Impacts
Impacts associated with emergency response plans would be less than significant.
4.15.5.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.15.5.4 Significance After Mitigation
All future projects would be required to adhere to City regulations and comply with General Plan policies. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.15 Wildfire
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.15.6 Issue 2: Wildfire
Would the project, due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or uncontrolled spread of wildfire?
4.15.6.1 Impact Analysis
As shown in Figure 4.7-3, Rezone Sites 1 through 10 and 35 are located within the CAL FIRE VHFHSZ.
Locating residential land uses adjacent to or within a high fire hazard area can result in increased fire-related risk to people and structures.
Future development located within the VHFHSZ would be required to adhere to California Fire Code Title 19, Division 1, Section 3.07(b), requiring a minimum 30-foot brush clearance around structures for fire safety. Further codified by the City in Municipal Code Chapter 11.18, all new developments, subdivisions, or tracts that are planned in Fire Hazard Severity Zones and/or WUIA shall have a minimum of 100 horizontal feet of “fuel modified” defensible space between structures and wildland areas. The City’s General Plan policies 4.2 through 4.13 provide guidance for the minimization of fire hazards including ensuring adequate response times, setting standards for emergency access, structural standards, other planning design measures required to be considered in all new development. Additionally, future discretionary projects would require review by the Building Official/Fire Marshal. Adherence to fire code regulations and General Plan policies would ensure impacts associated with risk of wildland fires would be less than significant.
4.15.6.2 Significance of Impacts
Impacts related to wildfire would be less than significant.
4.15.6.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.15.6.4 Significance After Mitigation
All future projects would be required to adhere to City regulations and comply with General Plan policies. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.15 Wildfire
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.15.7 Issue 3: Infrastructure
Would the project 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?
4.15.7.1 Impact Analysis
The project does not propose the construction of new housing or infrastructure. All impacts associated with required infrastructure improvements including any required measures to address fire safety would be evaluated in their respective subsequent environmental documents for discretionary projects, or as part of the ministerial review for by-right sites. Furthermore, all future development would undergo design review pursuant to the City’s Design Guidelines. With specific reference to Rezone Sites 1 through 10 and 35, which are located within the VHFHSZ, development on these sites would be required to include enhanced fire protection measures as detailed in the City’s building and fire codes. The City fire chief may also use their authority to require additional building, planning, or landscaping requirements that provide enhanced fire protection.
4.15.7.2 Significance of Impacts
Future development within the Housing Sites, whether discretionary or by-right, would be required to adhere to all regulatory requirements in place to minimize wildfire hazards including applicable sections of the City fire and building codes, and requirements from the fire chief that would be identified during future building permit reviews. Therefore, buildout of the project would not exacerbate fire risk or result in temporary or ongoing impacts on the environment. Impacts associated with the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure would be less than significant.
4.15.7.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.15.7.4 Significance After Mitigation
All future projects would be required to adhere to City regulations and comply with General Plan policies. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.15 Wildfire
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.15.8 Issue 4: Flooding or landslide
Would the project expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope stability, or drainage changes?
4.15.8.1 Impact Analysis
Wildfires can greatly reduce the amount of vegetation from hillsides. Plant roots stabilize the soil and aboveground plant structures slow water, allowing it to percolate into the soil. Removal of surface vegetation as a result of a wildfire reduces the ability of the soil surface to absorb rainwater and can allow for increased runoff that may include large amounts of debris. If burned or exposed soil conditions exist post-fire, the rate of surface water runoff is increased as water percolation into the soil is reduced. The potential for surface runoff and debris flows increases significantly for areas recently burned by large wildfires (Moench and Fusaro 2012).
Slope failures, mudflows, and landslides are common in areas where steep hillsides and embankments are present, and such conditions would be exacerbated in a post-fire environment where vegetative cover has been removed. CAL FIRE mapping data indicates low to moderate erosion potential within the City limits.
Development at the Rezone Sites would be required to demonstrate that development would be elevated out of the floodplain and would not affect the conveyance of flood waters through elevated building pads, and/or other compliance measures as specified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. All future development would conform to design requirements associated with proper site preparation and grading practices and would implement surface drainage improvements and erosion-control measures and construction best management practices.
As discussed in Section 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, all future development would be required to meet the most current seismic safety requirements in the CBC, as adopted by the City, including design and construction measures intended to resist potential earthquake damage.
Compliance with these requirements would prevent exposure of people or structures to significant risks of downstream flooding or landslides due to post-fire slope instability or drainages changes.
4.15.8.2 Significance of Impacts
Development of the Rezone Sites would be required to comply with applicable regulations and policies related to flooding, drainage patterns, and landslides. Therefore, the project would not expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes, and impacts would be less than significant.
4.15.8.3 Mitigation Framework
Impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.0 Environmental Analysis 4.15 Wildfire
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
4.15.8.4 Significance After Mitigation
All future projects would be required to adhere to City regulations and comply with General Plan policies. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
5.0 Significant Unavoidable Environmental Effects/
Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR
Chapter 5
Significant Unavoidable Environmental Effects/
Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15126.2 (c) and (d) require that the significant unavoidable impacts of the project, as well as any significant irreversible environmental changes that would result from project implementation, be addressed in an environmental impact report (EIR).
5.1 Significant Environmental Effects Which Cannot Be
Avoided if the Project is Implemented
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2 (c) any significant unavoidable impacts of a project, including those impacts that can be mitigated but not reduced to below a level of significance despite the applicant’s willingness to implement all feasible mitigation measures, must be identified in the EIR. Implementation of the 6th Cycle Housing Element Rezone Program (project) would result in significant, unavoidable impacts associated with the following issues: air quality (consistency with air quality plans, criteria pollutants), greenhouse gas emissions (emissions, policy consistency), noise (ambient noise), and transportation (vehicle miles traveled [VMT]). Chapter 4.0 of this Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) provides more detail about the nature and extent of these impacts related to the project.
These impacts would remain significant and unavoidable as a result of the project (refer to Chapter 4.0 of this PEIR for further detail). All other significant impacts identified in Chapter 4.0, Environmental Analysis, of this PEIR can be reduced to below a level of significance with implementation of the mitigation framework provided in Chapter 4.0 of this PEIR.
5.2 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes Which Would Result if the Project is Implemented
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2 (d) requires an evaluation of significant irreversible environmental changes. Examples of possible irreversible changes include:
• Primary impacts such as the use of nonrenewable resources (i.e., biological habitat, agricultural land, mineral deposits, water bodies, energy resources and cultural resources); • Secondary impacts, which would generally commit future generations to similar uses (such as highway improvements that provide access to a previously inaccessible areas); and • Environmental accidents potentially associated with buildout of the Rezone Sites.
5.0 Significant Unavoidable Environmental Effects/
Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes
City of Santee Housing Element Rezone Program Implementation PEIR