City Council Meeting Agenda: 10-08-2024 Page 1
Posted: Friday, October 04, 2024
NOTICE AND CALL OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
TRINIDAD CITY COUNCIL
The Trinidad City Council will hold a regular meeting on TUESDAY, OCTOBER 08, 2024, at 6:00 PM
at the Trinidad Town Hall, 409 Trinity Street, Trinidad, CA.
CLOSED SESSION BEGINS AT 4:45PM
For your convenience, this meeting will also be held via videoconference, hosted on the Zoom platform. Learn more about Zoom here: https://zoom.us
PUBLIC COMMENT: Public comment may be submitted via email in advance of the meeting, or in an orderly process during the meeting. If you do not have access to email and you would like to provide a written statement, please deliver your comments to 409 Trinity Street, Trinidad CA, by 2:00pm on the meeting day, or email to [email protected] HOW TO PARTICIPATE: You are invited to participate in person at the Trinidad Town Hall, or by Zoom. The City will publish a direct link to the Zoom teleconference, along with the participant code, on the City Calendar page online at http://trinidad.ca.gov/calendar
To phone in, dial 1-888-278-0296, Conference Code: 685171 Meeting ID: 878 1321 8943 Passcode: 084113 PLEASE NOTE that live meeting logistics will be prioritized. Connectivity issues on the part of the City may result in the meeting being delayed or rescheduled but technical challenges experienced by individuals will not interrupt or halt progress of the meeting.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. CLOSED SESSION
1. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT (Gov. Code section 54957(b)(1).) Title: New/Replacement City Manager
2. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT (Gov. Code section 54957(b)(1).) Title: Water Chief Plant Operator IV. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
V. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – 09-24-2024 cc2
VII. COUNCIL REPORTS/COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
VIII. STAFF REPORTS – City Manager & Humboldt County Sheriff Dept.
IX. ITEMS FROM THE FLOOR
At this time, members of the public may comment on items NOT appearing on the agenda. Individual comments will be limited to 3 minutes or less. Please direct your comments to the Council as a whole, maintain decorum and avoid personal attacks on staff, members of the Council and/or other members of the public. Council and staff responses will be minimal for non-agenda items.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
City Council Meeting Agenda: 10-08-2024 Page 2
All matters on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and are enacted in one motion. There is no separate discussion of any of these items. If discussion is requested by any Council member, that item is removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately. A single opportunity for public comment on the Consent Agenda is available to the public.
1. Staff Activity Report – September 2024
2. Financial Statements – August 2024
3. Law Enforcement Report – September 2024.
DISCUSSION/ACTION AGENDA ITEMS
1. Presentation/Discussion regarding Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail (ALMT) Conceptual Redesign.
2. Discussion/Decision regarding Appeal of Planning Commission’s Denial to Extend the Temporary Closure of the Van Wycke Trail, CDP#2024-01E.
3. Discussion/Decision Proclaiming September as Septic Smart Month.
4. November General Election Update
X. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
XI. ADJOURNMENT
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR:
SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 CC2
Supporting Documentation follows with: 4 PAGES
09-24-2024 City Council Meeting Minutes Page 1
MINUTES OF THE SECOND REGULAR MEETING OF THE TRINIDAD CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 (LIVE/HYBRID)
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Kelly called the live-hybrid meeting to order at 6:00pm. Council members in attendance: Kelly, West, Tuttle, and Breckenridge. Ladwig was absent. City Staff in attendance: City Manager Eli Naffah, City Clerk Gabriel Adams, Administrative Assistant Anton Souza, and City Engineer Josh Wolf. Grant Administrator Angela Cather attended by video-conference. Approximately (3) participants were present by video-conference, and (6) were present live at the beginning of the meeting.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. CLOSED SESSION – No closed session.
IV. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Kelly announced that the Council approved a month-to-month contract with City Manager Naffah during the 09/23/2024 special closed session meeting. The contract is on tonight’s consent agenda for approval.
Also, the search for a new City Manager is underway. The Council will be holding interviews next week.
Kelly also noted that the Closed Session scheduled for the conclusion of this meeting is not necessary and will not be held.
V. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Motion (West/Kelly) to approve the agenda as submitted. Passed 4-0.
VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES –05-28-2024 cc2, 06-11-2024 cc, 07-09-2024 cc, 08-13-2024 cc Motion (West/Tuttle) to approve the 05/28/2024 cc2 and 06/11/2024 cc minutes as submitted. Passed 4-0.
Ladwig absent.
Motion (Kelly/Breckenridge) to approve the 07/09/2024 cc minutes as submitted. Passed 3-0-1. West did not attend the meeting. Ladwig absent.
Motion (West/Breckenridge) to approve the 08/13/2024 cc minutes as submitted. Passed 3-0-1. Tuttle did not attend the meeting. Ladwig absent.
VII. COUNCIL REPORTS/COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
West: HCAOG discussed Caltrans plan to move forward with tunneling project to bypass Last Chance grade on 101. 2.5 Billion estimated cost. Construction begins in 2030 and will last 6-8 years. This will be the first tunnel built by the State in over a decade.
Breckenridge: Animal Advisory Committee met earlier tonight. HCSO Animal Control Officer Megan Nims attended to participate in the aggressive dog discussion and County/State code enforcement.
Ladwig: HTA received a presentation from County staff regarding a November ballot measure for roads and transportation expenses. RREDC met but discussed nothing relevant to Trinidad.
Kelly: Reporting out from the G2G meeting with the Trinidad Rancheria held on 06/13/2024: Animal Control issues were discussed, Galindo Trail update (nothing new to report), trail signage recommended by the Trails Committee was not received well, but using stone was preferred. The Rancheria asked about the Tsurai lawsuit status, but the City was not able to disclose any updates.
Attended the recent LAFCO meeting representing Trinidad. Members were appointed, and the Orleans Water System issues were discussed. Annexation and Fire District discussions are the responsibility of LAFCO, and it is important for Trinidad to be represented.
CERT will hold Stop the Bleeding & CPR trainings at the Town Hall in October. First Aid training will be held in November. The CERT Trailer will be on display at the Town Hall during the Fisherman’s Feast in September.
VIII.STAFF REPORTS – City Manager & Law Enforcement
City Manager Naffah highlighted accomplishments summarized in the staff report included in the meeting packet, including HSIP project underway, Water Tank & Pipeline Project Update, and Luffenholtz Creek flow rate. CIRA representatives visited Trinidad. Discussed School Playground public access, and options to open 09-24-2024 City Council Meeting Minutes Page 2
the Van Wycke trail. City Manager will be meeting with Tribal officials and the Coastal Commission to pursue options.
Councilmember West asked how the City would be ensured the School gate will be open after-hours. City Manager Naffah responded, stating to let him know if there was a problem.
Jacque Hostler – Trinidad Rancheria CEO
The Rancheria is moving ahead with the Interpretive Center project and needs to resolve the easement issue.
They will also be holding a celebration at the Harbor on September 28. Days City Manager Naffah responded, stating he would check with the City Attorney and Planner.
HCSO Lt. McCall was unable to attend.
IX. ITEMS FROM THE FLOOR
(Three (3) minute limit per Speaker unless Council approves request for extended time.) Richard Kieselhorst – Trinidad
An article was published in the North Coast Journal this week about the County taking enforcement action to abate the Yee-Haw commune nuisance on Quarry Road. Charles Garth also owns the old Seventh Day Adventist Church next to my property at 101 North Westhaven Drive. I have been complaining about the Church for many years. The City hasn’t done anything, and the problem has only gotten worse. My tenants are concerned for their safety. There are 12 abandoned vehicles on his property that is zoned for a church. Garth will be evicted from his property on Quarry Road as is moving the things he wants to keep down to the church.
This is frustrating. You have my permission to come see it yourself. The County says it will cost approximately 1 million to abate the Quarry Road nuisance. Does Trinidad have a million dollars to clean up the church? Garth is violating City codes that aren’t being enforced. It’s time to do something about it before it gets much worse.
Mayor Kelly recommending gathering for a meeting with County and City officials to coordinate enforcement efforts.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Staff Activity Report – August 2024
2. Financial Statements – July 2024
3. Law Enforcement Report – August 2024
4. Second Reading of Ordinance 2024-02; Zoning and General Plan Amendment request to change the zoning and general plan designations of the property from PR – Public and Religious to SR – Suburban Residential. Narelle 2021-04; Located at 12 Berry Road; APN: 515-331-016, and Resolution 2024-15; Authorizing Staff to Submit an LCP Amendment to the Coastal Commission for the Rezone.
5. Second Reading of Ordinance 2024-03; Extending the .75% Transactions and Use Tax for General Purposes to Continue to be Administered by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
6. Trinidad-Westhaven Emergency Water Service Intertie Grant Project Update
7. Resolution 2024-16; Adopting CalTrans Local Assistance Procedures Manual Chapter 10 – Consultant Selection Dated January 2024.
8. First Amendment to the City Manager Employment Agreement.
Motion (Kelly/West) to approve the consent agenda as submitted. Passed 4-0.
XI. DISCUSSION/ACTION AGENDA ITEMS
1. Prop 218 Public Hearing on Water Rate Increase and Consideration of Adopting Resolution 2024-17; Amending Fees and Charges for Water Rates.
City Manager Naffah explained that all the necessary steps have been taken to evaluate and update the City’s water service rates, and legal noticing in accordance with Proposition 218 has been conducted. According to the City Clerk’s office, four written protests were received. The Council is being asked tonight to review the protests, conduct the hearing, and consider adopting Resolution 2024-17 implementing the new rate structure beginning October 01.
City Manager Naffah introduced Samantha Ryan from RCEA who assisted the City with the rate analysis. Ryan noted that unless there were detailed questions from the Council or members of the public, then tonight’s task is to consider adoption of the draft rates.
09-24-2024 City Council Meeting Minutes Page 3
Public comment included:
Tom Davies – Trinidad
Our water fund is grossly mismanaged. I reviewed invoices requested from Coleman Engineering. The contractor rates are extremely high, and sticking with them without investing in existing employees is to blame for these high rates. I encourage Council to get involved in personnel decisions and encourage employees to stay.
Employees that were interested in keeping jobs here were not supported. I also heard a rumor there was a settlement paid to a past employee for the contractor’s behavior towards them. This could have been avoided.
Be loyal to the local people. It looks really suspicious that the lead guy at Coleman Engineering is now considered a candidate for the CPO job advertised. Distrust of the Council is at an all-time high. This a zit on the face that’s ready to pop…a symptom of the problem.
Naffah noted that there was an internal investigation held regarding an employee complaint issue, by the City’s insurance provider. There was no settlement, and the process did not cost the City any money.
Mayor Kelly reminded the public that the Council spent a lot of time discussing their disapproval of the continued expenses related to Water Plant Operation, and directed staff to recruit harder for a new operator. The City cannot prevent someone from Coleman Engineering from applying for the job, but it does not guarantee them anything.
Breckenridge noted the rates had not been raised since 2017 and inflation has increased 25% since then.
Jacque Hostler – Trinidad Rancheria
Asked for clarification on rates, and how the Rancheria will be affected.
Samantha Ryan noted that the rates have been equalized for inside/outside City. All customers will have a $66.20 base rate per month, with a $5.85 per 100cuft consumption rate. Outside city residents will see a 17% base rate increase. Inside City customer rate increase will be higher.
Council comments included:
Tuttle: When will the next rate increase be? RCAC recommends reviewing the fund performance every year, but the rate structure considered tonight will program a 10% increase each year through 2029.
Breckenridge: Question for resident Tom Davies; how do you explain trust sentiment being low (with a lot of “talk”, but only 5 rate protests received? Davies stated it was based on many decisions being made recently that aren’t helping the city, such as trail closures, for example. I sat on your side for 7 years. People get the impression that they aren’t being heard. Thank you for asking.
Motion (Kelly/Breckenridge) adopting Resolution 2024-17 Amending Fees and Charges for Water Rates. Passed 4-0.
2. Speed Humps update for Ocean and View Streets/Consider options.
City Manager Naffah explained that he noticed a removable speed bump in Cave Junction. When several staff members joined him in marking speed hump locations on View and Ocean, he felt it would be helpful to consider the removable option. He also remembered residents asking for them on other streets.
City Engineer Josh Wolf started a presentation off with basics; Speed bumps, Humps, and Tables. Each device is designed differently and for specific purposes. Speed humps are being proposed on View & Ocean. The Council expressed their preference for permanent, asphalt humps at the August 13 meeting. Humps are intended to control traffic speeds and volumes. Disadvantages include pushing traffic to adjacent streets, noise level increases, etc. Presented options for permanent, hot mix asphalt humps or temporary, modular, rubberized humps. Permanent are estimated to cost around $6,600 installed. Temporary will be approximately $5,500, plus installation costs.
Public comment included:
Tom Davies – Trinidad
Prefer permanent asphalt. Concerned with people veering off the road to avoid the humps, and parking issues created adjacent to them.
Council comments included:
09-24-2024 City Council Meeting Minutes Page 4
Tuttle: Did we get all residents on View and Ocean to sign off? City Manager Naffah explained there were three on Ocean Avenue that weren’t able to sign. Two residents on View did not sign. For the most part, the majority was in favor of speed humps. Naffah further explained that the cost will be covered by the HSIP funding.
Kelly: I don’t have a strong opinion about this.
West: I prefer permanent asphalt humps. Temporary humps aren’t attractive and seem like a waste.
By consensus, the full Council supported their previous decision to install permanent asphalt speed humps.
3. Discussion/Decision to Appoint Two Councilmembers for a Tribal Consultation Government-to-Government Consultation request from the Trinidad Rancheria.
City Manager Naffah explained that a request was made by the Rancheria to hold a G2G meeting for vegetation removal proposed on ALMT, along with Van Wycke Trail closure update.
There was no public comment.
Motion (West/Breckenridge) to appoint Mayor Kelly and Councilmember Tuttle to join the G2G meeting, with West being an alternate. Passed 4-0.
4. Update on Argument in Favor of Measure L Unanimously Approved by the City Council in August.
City Clerk Adams explained that on Tuesday, August 13, the City Council voted 4-0 in support of an Argument in Favor of Measure L (Continuation of the .75% Trinidad Sales Tax for four more years). The deadline to file the argument with County Elections was 5pm, Monday, August 19.
The City Clerk has been on record every month since January providing the Council with detailed calendar updates and upcoming deadlines for the purpose election transparency, but also as an aide to Staff keeping things on track.
On Monday, August 19, afterhours, the City Clerk realized that a prior email send attempted on Friday the 16th had not been replied to with confirmation from County Elections. Staff was unable to locate a sent message with a time stamp. A follow up email was sent immediately at 8:52pm.
On Tuesday the 20th County Elections responded, stating they did not receive the submission prior to 5pm on the 19th, therefore it would not be accepted.
Due to a combination of workload demands and technical issues with Microsoft, Staff failed to meet the deadline, meaning the Argument in Favor as approved by the Council on August 13 will not be included in the Voter Information Guide. There was no Argument Against Measure L submitted.
In lieu of missing the deadline, Staff recommends a direct mailer along with website support of a slightly edited version of the Argument that removes any advocacy that would render Staff unable to devote city resources to the cause. City Attorney Russ Gans office revised and endorsed the attached letter.
By consensus, the Council authorized staff to publish the revised Argument In Favor of Measure L and dedicate staff time to direct mail registered voters and publish on the City website.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- Van Wycke & Axel Lindgren Trail Updates
ADJOURNMENT: 7:50pm.
Submitted by: Approved by:
_____________________________ _____________________________ Gabriel Adams Cheryl Kelly
Trinidad City Clerk Mayor
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 1
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
1. Staff Activity Report – September 2024
City Manager’s Report October 8, 2024 Meeting
Water Tank and Pipeline Project:
One of the two 150.000-gallon Redwood Water Tanks will be taken offline in two weeks. We will ask residents to conserve water in the coming months as we transition to the new 250,000- gallon Stainless Steel Water Tank. The process to take apart the existing tank, prepare the site, and assemble the new tank is expected to take approximately 3 months.
Repaving has taken place on Edwards Street and Westhaven Drive. The crew was able to repair two areas of rough road on Scenic Drive as well. Mercer-Fraser Company is the contractor.
Water Plant:
The discharge measurement from the Luffenholtz Creek streamflow on September 24th was
3.19 cfs which is good for this time of year.
Three water plant employees are scheduled to take water exams in the next 2 months, one for T-3, one for T-2, and one for D-2. The September invoice from Coleman Engineering is $13,751.
Humboldt County Drought Task Force:
On October 3rd, the Humboldt County Drought Task Force presented a virtual report to the partner agencies. Five regions in Humboldt County with Water Shortage Vulnerability were identified including the Trinidad Area. A physical vulnerability driver is saltwater intrusion into the coastal aquifer from sea level rise. Additionally, there is a water shortage vulnerability due to the number of dry holes encountered when drilling for new wells in our area. The Task Force is scheduled to present short-term actions and long-term strategies in late October or early November to the partners. Tentatively in January, the Task Force will present a Draft Drought Resilience Plan.
CIRA/Law Enforcement JPA:
Our CIRA (California Intergovernmental Risk Authority) insurance pool representative followed up with a meeting of small cities in Humboldt County (Ferndale, Blue Lake, and Trinidad) to address potential scenarios that could improve law enforcement services regionally.
Contractually or through a Joint Powers Authority, police officers could serve the cities with patrols and boots on the ground. Some similar arrangements have been made in Marin and Lake counties. Tentatively a presentation can be made at the November 12th Council meeting.
STAFF REPORT SUPPLEMENTAL
Date: Tuesday, October 08, 2024
Background Info: The City of Trinidad is responding to the Governor’s Order calling on all Californians to do their part by reducing consumption.
Luffenholtz Creek flow readings are presented to the Council on an as-needed basis - during drought events or when requested. November, December, January, and once again February has delivered abundant amounts of rainfall, providing relief from stress-related drought on the watershed. With this in mind, the focus of these reports (during the wet season) will be to share and put into perspective how Trinidad’s water consumption metrics compare to those of recent years.
The amounts represent the total water sold, captured by 323 customer meters, measured in cubic feet (7.48 gallons = 1 cubic foot).
July 2020 275,612 cuft January 2020 199,348
July 2021 251,168 January 2021 161,379
July 2022 198,081 January 2022 189,201
July 2023 223,806 January 2023 154,543
July 2024 264,491 (21.01% Water Loss) January 2024 148,407 (23.67% Water Loss) August 2020 273,992 February 2020 155,015
August 2021 269,771 February 2021 178,545
August 2022 227,681 February 2022 154,634
August 2023 265,808 February 2023 136,626
August 2024 233,215 (17.85% Water Loss) February 2024 132,690 (11.33% Water Loss) September 2020 302,614 March 2020 164,854
September 2021 227,831 March 2021 187,607
September 2022 216,470 March 2022 184,103
September 2023 200,348 March 2023 152,813
September 2024 200,050 (22.16% Water Loss) March 2024 125,188 (19.75% Water Loss) October 2019 188,075 April 2020 199,450
October 2020 230,430 April 2021 192,287
October 2021 203,176 April 2022 173,115
October 2022 180,065 April 2023 145,504
October 2023 188,335 (22.08% Water Loss) April 2024 176,413 (40.81% Water Loss) November 2019 211,649 May 2020 183,368
November 2020 198,813 May 2021 242,529
November 2021 204,438 May 2022 154,634
November 2022 169,144 May 2023 211,380
November 2023 151,914 (22.06% Water Loss) May 2024 182,738 (14.68% Water Loss) December 2019 201,305 June 2020 240,055
December 2020 185,860 June 2021 269,087
December 2021 201,160 June 2022 233,692
December 2022 170,419 June 2023 209,336
December 2023 122,937 (27% Water Loss) June 2024 229,399 (17.12% Water Loss)
Water sold in September continued the trend of monthly 5-year consumption lows. However, several resident and business accounts are peaking at record highs. We will continue to monitor consumption each month and report this information (along with summary trends and analysis) to the Council for review, comparison, and questions at each meeting.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 2
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
2. Financial Statements – August 2024
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 3
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
3. Law Enforcement Report – September 2024.
DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM 1
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
1. Presentation/Discussion regarding Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail (ALMT) Conceptual Redesign.
Technical Memorandum
The Power of Commitment
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 1
June 30, 2023
To Sarah Lindgren Akana – Tsurai
Ancestral Society
Contact No. N/A
Copy to Kelly Lindgren Email [email protected]
From GHD Project No. 12608028 ALMT Conceptual
Restoration Solutions
Project Name Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail
Subject Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail Conceptual Restoration Solutions | Technical Memorandum
1. Introduction
GHD is providing the Tsurai Ancestral Society with this Technical Memorandum (Tech Memo) presenting a conceptual solution for the repair and restoration of the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail (ALMT or Project) in Trinidad, California (Figure 1). Repair and restoration of the trail includes returning the trail to the Traditional Trail alignment. The Tech Memo describes our current Project understanding, review of existing data and background resources, current site conditions, a recommended conceptual solution, guidance on the permitting process, and a planning level opinion of probable construction cost.
1.1 Project Objective
The Project objective is to develop the conceptual plan for repair and restoration of the ALMT, including rerouting the trail to follow the Traditional Trail alignment. The conceptual plan was developed per the grant Project description that is provided below in Section 2 Project Understanding. The Tsurai Ancestral Society participated in the field reconnaissance and was consulted during development of the conceptual solutions to ensure that cultural resources were considered, respected, and would be protected by any conceptual plans put forth for consideration.
1.2 Purpose of this Memorandum
The purpose of this Technical Memorandum is to present the data collected during field reconnaissance, the conceptual solutions that were explored, and the recommended conceptual solution for repair and restoration of the ALMT. The Tech Memo is provided as a final deliverable under our agreement with the Tsurai Ancestral Society. It is provided to foster discussion in relation to technical matters associated with the Project and provide planning information for future work to improve the existing trail. It should not be relied upon for any other purpose.
1.3 Scope and limitations
This technical memorandum has been prepared by GHD for the Tsurai Ancestral Society. It is not intended for circulation or incorporation into other documents. The matters discussed in this memorandum are limited to those specifically detailed in the memorandum and are subject to any limitations or assumptions specially set out.
GHD has prepared this memorandum on the basis of information provided by the Client and others who provided information to GHD (which may also include Government authorities), which GHD has not independently verified or checked for the purpose of this memorandum. GHD does not accept liability in connection with such unverified information, including errors and omissions in the memorandum which were caused by errors or omissions in that information.
Trinidad
Westhaven-Moonstone &
101
Project
Location
Eureka
Arcata
Fortuna
McKinleyville
36 254
96 3
271
169
345
255 299
36 101
101
101
101
FIGURE 1
0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000
US Feet
Project No.
Revision No. -
12608028
Date 6/21/2023
Tsurai Ancestal Society
Alex Lindgren Memorial Trail Conceptual Plan
Trinidad, California
Map Projection: Lambert Conformal Conic
Horizontal Datum: North American 1983
Grid: NAD 1983 StatePlane California II FIPS 0402 Feet
Paper Size ANSI A
o Data source: World Topographic Map - labelless; California State Parks, Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS; World Topographic Map - labelless; California State Parks, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA; World Hillshade; Esri, USGS; World Hillshade; Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA; TIGERweb/Transportation; Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Created by: djones3 N:\US\Eureka\Projects\561\12608028\GIS\Maps\Working\12608028_LindgrenTrail_Atlas\12608028_LindgrenTrail_Atlas.aprx - 12608028_SLM_ALMT_GIS001
Print date: 21 Jun 2023 - 08:57
Vicinity Map
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 2
The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this memorandum are based on one site visit and available information referenced in this memo. Site conditions at other parts of the site not available for observation may be different from the site conditions found at locations available to GHD for this study. The additional recommended site investigations may change the recommended solutions or corresponding opinion of probable construction costs depending on those findings.
2. Project Understanding
The Tsurai Ancestral Society has applied for and received a grant through the Seventh Generation Fund for Indigenous Peoples for this Project. The Project is described in the grant submittal as follows:
“The Tsurai Ancestral Society is seeking funding to develop a conceptual plan to begin the process of repairing and restoring the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail. Plan will identify the Traditional Trail, recommend studies, and identify cost associated with next steps. Known goals include Project site assessment and preliminary trail design that will address the following areas of concern: a railing or fencing is needed along the trail to prevent use of the new voluntary trails and add support for those utilizing the trail, new steps that ease erosion and minimize impact to the site from high volume foot traffic, a bridge to cross the small stream located near the toe of the bluff and steps leading down to the beach from the bridge/trail redesign to cope with the increased coastal erosion and bluff instability, and address water runoff that may be impacting overall trail stability. The Traditional Trail did not follow the same path at the toe of the beach bluff, however, due to budget in 1997 when the current steps were installed, the City was not able to follow the Traditional Trail. This rerouted section cuts into a sensitive area and exposes cultural resources making them easy to access by beach goers. Over the last several years, the trail has seen increased erosion from climate change and tourists, that has negatively impacted the trail and ate away at the steps. The lack of a handrail or protective fencing has made grave robbing and looting much easier in years past, along with illegal cutting from surrounding properties seeking to increase their view of the bay. The Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail is a protected cultural resource in and of itself as identified in the Tsurai Management Plan, its preservation is of upmost importance to the descendants of the Village and Yurok Tribe.”
3. Existing Conditions
3.1 Site Location and Current Alignment
The ALMT is located in the City of Trinidad in Humboldt County, California. The ALMT is located within the ancestral lands of the Yurok Tribe, which extend along the California Coast from Little River in Humboldt County to Damnation Creek in Del Norte County, and inland along the lower Klamath River (Sloan & Rocha 2007). The ALMT extends through the historical ancestral village of Tsurai, which is an irreplaceable cultural resource of great significance to the Yurok Tribe.
Access to the ALMT is located on the bluff edge at the intersection of Edwards and Trinity Streets. This is also the previous location of the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse; however, the lighthouse has been moved due to slope stability issues in the general area and feedback from lineal descendants of the Tsurai to maintain access to the traditional ALMT. The ALMT extends from the bluff edge, down the bluff, where it connects to Old Home Beach near sea level. The elevation of the trailhead is approximately 152 feet (ft) above sea level (ASL) and where the trail meets Old Home Beach is approximately 14 ft ASL. The current ALMT was constructed in 1997 by the Yurok Tribe under the supervision of Axel Lindgren II, a lineal descendent of the Tsurai whom the trail is named after.
Google Earth imagery shows several small streams that drain from the base of the bluff, across Old Home Beach, and into Trinidad Bay. These small streams are present on historical aerial images dating back to 2005, which is the earliest available image that could be reviewed. According to the Tsurai Management Plan (TMP), the three streams that pass through the Tsurai Study Area (TSA) and flow across the beach into Trinidad Bay are known as Alder Creek, Pepperwood Creek, and Parker Creek.
The bluff is currently densely vegetated, and Google Earth imagery (2005-2022) indicates that this has been the case in recent times. However, the archival research described in the TMP indicates that the TSA 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 3
was once an open area, containing some old growth trees, a traditional plank-house village, and a historical village component off European-style houses in the mid-1800s (Sloan & Rocha 2007). Oral history and archival research indicate that the area was once managed and maintained by Tsurai Village residents, possibly through prescribed burning (a traditional Yurok practice), resulting in the open park-like quality of the Village and surrounding area (Sloan & Rocha 2007). The current saturated and overgrown conditions of the Tsurai Village and the TSA are not historic but are a result of the management decisions by past and present landowners.
The TMP also noted, “concerns about the safety and stability of the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail, which travels down the steep slope to the beach. The bottom portion of this trail, which is constructed of interlocking cable-tie steps, has repeatedly washed-out during winter months or high wave events, at times creating a hazard for those attempting to access the beach from this route. Even as recent as the winter storm events of January 2006, the lower portion of the ALMT washed out.” The current trail alignment is the same as that described in the TMP and was again washed out in winter storm events of 2022 and 2023.
4. Background Resource Review
4.1 Tsurai Management Plan
The 2007 TMP is a result of a collaborative effort between the Coastal Conservancy, City of Trinidad, Tsurai Ancestral Society, and the Yurok Tribe (Sloan & Rocha 2007). The purpose of the TMP was to resolve areas of past and present conflict over the management of the Tsurai Study Area (an area which includes the ALMT). The objective was to make recommendations to resolve and prevent further conflicts and to identify areas where collaboration could occur for protection, preservation, and potential restoration of the cultural and natural resources.
Key findings and recommendations outlined in the TMP include:
– Installation of a handrail on the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail to provide safer use of this primary beach access trail by the public.
– Development and installation of signs throughout the Tsurai Study Area (TSA) to direct user traffic and protect environmental and cultural resources contained therein. – Analysis and mitigation of the runoff and saturation issues that are impacting the Tsurai Village site. – Completion of a comprehensive botanical and vegetation survey of the TSA with recommendations for select vegetation removal to improve site conditions and assist in the removal of invasive species. – Development of a Vegetation Management Plan with a protocol for reviewing and making decisions on management of vegetation within the TSA; and continued collaboration between the Coastal Conservancy, City, Tsurai Ancestral Society, and Yurok Tribe on the future management of the TSA via the continuation of the Tsurai Management Team through implementation of the Management Plan.
4.2 RCAA Feasibility Study
Redwood Community Action Agency (RCAA) conducted a 1995 feasibility study for constructing improved primary trail access in the location of the current ALMT (RCAA 1995). This study was conducted prior to development of the current ALMT. This study evaluated several potential access routes via trails that existed at the time and found that two of those trails could potentially be improved for better access from the bluff to the beach: the Hogback Trail and the Western Trail. Both trails traverse the bluff from Edward’s Street to Old Home Beach, in the vicinity of the historical Tsurai Village. However, it is noted in the study that the Hogback Trail was a Tsurai Village access trail.
4.3 LACO Associates
As part of development of the TMP LACO Associates were contracted to conduct an engineering and geologic assessment of the Tsurai Village and the TSA (Sloan and Rocha 2007). The LACO report summarized previous studies, addressed the site-specific issues identified by the Tsurai Management 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 4
Team, conducted a site evaluation of the TSA, and provided a series of recommendations for mitigation of the anthropogenic causes contributing to geomorphic processes at the site (Sloan & Rocha 2007). LACO Associates identified uncontrolled discharge of surface runoff and drainage from neighboring and bluff top residences as the greatest factor affecting slope stability at the TSA. Their recommendations included controlling surface run-off through placement of drainage collection structures, tightlines, and properly located points of discharge (LACO 2004).
4.4 SHN Coastal Bluff Assessments
SHN has conducted several coastal bluff assessments for the coastal bluffs along Edwards Street and provides a description of the local geologic conditions as follows. Bedrock in the area consists of Franciscan Complex rocks referred to as “mélange”, which describes a mixture of rock blocks within a matrix of sheared shale and/or Serpentinite (SHN 2019). The Franciscan bedrock is overlain in Trinidad by a series of marine terraces. The marine terrace deposits consist of near-shore marine deposits and terrestrial deposits such as alluvium, colluvium, and wind blow sand deposits (SHN 2017). The coastal bluffs along Trinidad State Beach and around Trinidad Bay consist of exposed Franciscan mélange bedrock in the lower part of the slope and terrace deposits and uplifted coastal plain toward the top of the slope where the town in developed (SHN 2017).
The earliest evaluation reviewed is a 1996 Geologic Report for Two Trail Alternatives South of Edwards Street (SHN 1996). The focus of the evaluation was to determine if either or both of two proposed trail alignments (the Western Trail Alignment and the Hogback Trail Alignment) could be constructed without creating significant additional slope failure or erosion of the coastal bluff. The SHN evaluation describes the coastal bluff as being subject to chronic slow colluvial soil creep with localized intermittent shallow landslide occurrences. It also describes the slope as being composed of loose silty sand soils that are highly erodible when exposed to direct rainfall or concentrated runoff. The evaluation states that in comparison to other areas along the bluff, the location of the Hogback Trail is moderately to most stable. The opinion stated in the evaluation was that both trail alignments could be designed and constructed in a manner that would not significantly increase erosion or slope instability. However, it also states that the entire project area is subject to significant long-term risk of slope failure and that the slope failures tend to be episodic and unpredictable.
More recent coastal bluff assessments completed by SHN for the Project area include a 2017 Landslide Mitigation Assessment, a 2019 Coastal Landslide Hazard Evaluation, 2022 Coastal Bluff Mapping, and at least one evaluation completed for private landowners that own property along the bluff.
The 2017 SHN Landslide Mitigation Assessment was completed due to a landslide headscarp located immediately west of the ALMT (SHN 2017). The eastern edge of the headscarp had migrated near the previous location of the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse. The opinion in the evaluation was that continued slope movement could cause structural or foundational damage to the lighthouse and that moving the lighthouse should be considered. Figure 2 in the 2017 report presents an approximate outline of the area impacted by the earthflow. This includes the location of the headscarp and the general shape and size of the earthflow from the top of the bluff to the beach. The earthflow is not shown as intersecting with the existing alignment of the ALMT. However, the bottom of the earthflow is shown as very close to, and potentially intersecting with, the lowest section of the desired trail alignment.
The 2017 SHN landslide assessment also included drilling of four Geotechnical borings (TML-1 through TML-4). The assessment states that bedrock was encountered at a depth of approximately 45 ft below ground surface (BGS) in TML-1 and 42.5 ft BGS in TML-2. Both borings were installed near the top of the bluff adjacent to Edward’s Street. Bedrock was not encountered in TML-3 and TML-4, which were installed immediately adjacent to the previous location of the Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse. SHN describes the geologic condition of the area as having a “block-in-matrix” texture consisting of blocks of Franciscan Complex bedrock floating within a melange matrix. The description also states that where melange matrix is abundant, the melange is highly susceptible to downslope mass movement in the form of earthflow. Marine terrace sediments composed primarily of fine to medium sand with scattered gravel top the Franciscan Complex and melange.
The 2019 SHN Coastal Landslide Hazard Evaluation divided the coastal bluffs on the west and south sides of the City of Trinidad into segments and then discussed bluff stability by segment (SHN 2019). The ALMT is within the footprint of the Edwards Segment. Figure 2 in the 2019 report shows the footprints of active 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 5
earthflows in the Edwards Segment. The figure shows that there are active earthflows on both sides of the ALMT, however the earthflows do not appear to intersect the existing trail alignment, except for the lowest section near the beach. As mentioned above, it does appear that the earthflow located immediately west of the existing trail alignment may intersect with the lowest section of the desired trail alignment.
The 2022 SHN Coastal Bluff Mapping objective was to provide the City of Trinidad’s planners, decision makers, and the public with updated maps of the current location of the top of the “coastal bluffs”. The ALMT is presented on Figure 5 of the 2022 Coastal Bluff Maps. Figure 5 in the 2022 report shows the location of the bluff line along Edwards Street and through the Project area. There is a note on Figure 5 that the bluff line was active (indicating active movement) in 2017, which is discussed above and is included in SHN’s 2017 Landslide Mitigation Assessment.
4.5 Crawford Slope Stability Analysis
Crawford and Associates, inc., completed a slope stability analyses for the coastal bluff along Edward’s Street in 2013 as part of the Trinidad Stormwater Improvement Project (Crawford 2013). This analysis computed the factor of safety for sections of the bluff under the existing condition and the 50-year storm condition along specific cross sections. In general, the factor of safety is a calculation of the amount of stress (or load) exerted on an object (or area) versus the amount of stress that the object is capable of holding without becoming unstable. A factor of safety that is less than 1 represent likely failure. A factor of safety above 1 represents how much stress is within the allowable limit. The ALMT is located between cross sections H-H’ and G+25 – G+25’, however it is nearest cross section G+25 – G+25’. The factor of safety computed for the existing conditions at cross section G+25 – G+25’ was 1.22 and for the 50-year Storm Condition was 1.05.
4.6 Marshall Residence Analyses
There have been at least two evaluations for bluff stability and erosion for the Marshall Residence, which is located on the north side of Edwards Street west of the ALMT. One of the evaluations was completed in 2009 by Busch Geotechnical Consultants and the other was completed in 2008 by Pacific Watershed Associates. Both reports discuss potential impacts to the geologic stability of the site and the coastal bluffs should development happen on the property. According to the PWA report, because the property is classified as being within an area of questionable stability the City of Trinidad requires a geologic report of this nature that discusses the impacts. Both reports discuss the geology of the area, seismic hazards, and erosion potential of the bluffs with respect to the property. The information provided generally concurs with the other background information summarized in this report.
5. Desired Future Trail
5.1 Desired Outcomes and Finished Trail
The Tsurai Ancestral Society provided GHD will examples of what the desired finished trail might look like.
The examples provided to GHD by the Tsurai Ancestral Society are included in Attachment 1. The desired trail would include an elevated boardwalk, or similar design, from the trailhead to the beach. An elevated boardwalk would help minimize soil disturbance and help provide a sense of floating above this rich cultural area. The lower portion of the trail would be rerouted to the traditional path. The desired trail would include railing and either wire panels or fencing that would help keep dogs and people on the boardwalk and out of the larger Tsurai Study Area. This would help prevent looting, vegetation destruction, and pet waste contamination in the Tsurai Study Area. The Tsurai Ancestral Society also noted that they would like to complete the trail in the least invasive way as possible, preventing damage to cultural resources as well as vegetation which includes minimizing excavation and soil disturbance as much as possible.
5.2 Site Reconnaissance and Field Mapping
GHD met with representatives from the Tsurai Ancestral Society and conducted a field reconnaissance on May 26, 2023. Site Photographs taken during the field reconnaissance are included in Attachment 2. The field reconnaissance was an opportunity for the Tsurai Ancestral Society to show GHD the Traditional Trail 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 6
alignment and discuss potential conceptual ideas. Due to erosion of the base of the existing trail the City of Trinidad fenced off trail access at the top of the bluff following the field reconnaissance. During the field reconnaissance the existing trail alignment was walked from the top of the bluff down the trail toward the beach. An unknown person was observed to be camping adjacent to the existing bench on the trail alignment and within the Tsurai Study Area. GHD and the Society notified the Sheriff’s department and requested that they assist with removing the trespasser and their belongings. This further emphasized the need for a trail design that prevents access off the trail and into the Study Area.
The lower approximately 20-30 ft of existing trail leading to the beach is no longer passable due to bluff erosion caused by wave action during the winter of 2022-2023. This erosion occurred at multiple locations along the base of the bluff in the vicinity of the trail. During the reconnaissance GHD and the Tsurai Ancestral Society observed Samara Restoration working to cover the eroded areas of the bluff base with biodegradable erosion control mats, which was being done as a separate project.
Due to dense vegetation, the Traditional trail segment could not be accessed. Instead, GHD and the Tsurai Ancestral Society used the Parker Creek Trail to access the beach and then walked the beach back to the Study Area. The Tsurai Ancestral Society showed GHD where the Traditional Trail historically connected to the beach. The Traditional Trail connected to a large rock that is located on the beach. GHD observed a small stream to be flowing on the south side of the rock and substantial erosion to the slope that is west of the rock. The Society noted that the Traditional Trail used to cross the stream (or spring) higher on the slope and that a bridge may be needed so that the future trail can cross the stream without causing erosion or damage to the stream or adjacent stream banks.
During the field reconnaissance GHD collected global positioning system (GPS) data that was used to help create a digital alignment of the existing and desired trail. The GPS data aided in the horizontal placement of the trail alignments; however, the vertical accuracy of the data was not as good as the available light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data. The LiDAR data was produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in 2016. Therefore, the available LiDAR data was used to develop the slope elevation profile that is included in the conceptual ideas for this evaluation. The existing and desired trail alignments and the existing slope elevation profile are included in Attachment 3 on Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2.
6. Trail Components and Guidelines
The following are trail components and guidelines used in the development of the conceptual trail ideas discussed below:
– Fencing with wire mesh or similar approach along the entire length of trail that keeps people and dogs on the trail and out of the adjacent Tsurai Study Area. – An elevated boardwalk design that minimizes the impact of the trail on soil and cultural resources.
Steep sections of the trail will require stairs.
– Fencing and elevated boardwalk that can be constructed in segments, which can be individually repaired in the case of slope movement, without disruption or damage to adjacent sections. – Sections with stairs will require a handrail. Handrails will be recommended to be made of steel that can attach to the adjacent fence with a minimum clearance width of four feet between handrails. A wider trail width would be recommended if funds allow, but a narrower clearance width is not recommended. – Potentially two bridges or structures: one shorter bridge that allows for a stream crossing and one longer bridge that allows for crossing from the bluff to the rock on the beach where the trail ends. – Construction materials that provide good longevity and low maintenance costs in coastal environments.
– A construction approach and trail design that minimizes excavation and soil disturbance as much as possible.
The example ideas provided to GHD by the Tsurai Ancestral Society show boardwalks constructed mainly from wood materials. However, during the field reconnaissance the use of other materials such as stainless steel and galvanized steel were discussed for fencing and railings, and the Tsurai Ancestral Society was open to exploring those options. These other materials are being considered because they have a longer 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 7
expected lifetime and lower expected maintenance cost, compared to wood materials. Wood materials tend to start experiencing degradation within 10 years of use in coastal trails, depending on the quality of wood available during construction. Decay was observed in the existing wooden stairs of the current ALMT.
Therefore, the conceptual ideas presented below include wood, steel, and concrete material solutions.
Given that there is potential for ongoing slope instability and movement the conceptual solutions presented are those that can be constructed, and potentially repaired, in segments instead of as one connected unit.
This can be achieved through repeating sections of steps and platforms that can be constructed as independent units placed adjacent to each other to avoid gaps.
7. Conceptual Trail Designs Considered
Initially, two conceptual trail ideas were considered based on the desired trail components discussed above. The first conceptual trail would be constructed entirely of wood, including an elevated boardwalk with railing and sections of stairs as needed. A boardwalk and trail components constructed entirely of wood match the natural aesthetic seen on other existing trails in the area. The second conceptual trail would be constructed of concrete box stairs with compacted gravel tread and steel railing, which are materials that would provide improved resilience to coastal weathering. Through conceptual development of the trail, it was determined that neither of these two specific options were preferred although aspects of each option had desired aspects to carry forward. These initial conceptual trail ideas are discussed in further detail below along with a discussion of why they are not the preferred solution for this trail.
Through conceptual development of the two ideas discussed above, a preferred conceptual trail solution was identified. The preferred conceptual trail solution is an elevated boardwalk with an aluminum sub-frame and steel railing. There are several options for materials that would form the walking surface and stairs, including wood and non-wood options. This option combines the best components from the first two initial trail ideas, including an elevated surface that minimizes disturbance to cultural resources as well as construction materials that are more resilient to coastal weathering processes. The preferred conceptual trail solution for the elevated boardwalk and steel railing trail is discussed in further detail below.
7.1 Initial Conceptual Trail Ideas
7.1.1 Conceptual Wood Boardwalk with Wood Railing
Conceptual ideas for a trail constructed primarily of wood materials is provided in Attachment 3 on Figure
3.3. The figure shows both a profile and section view of the conceptual wood boardwalk. The conceptual wood boardwalk would include a wood frame, wood staircases and platforms, wood support posts, and wood top rails that connect the support posts. It would include steel handrails positioned on the inside of the wood top rails.
There would be a welded wire mesh fencing between each of the support posts that prevents human and pet traffic from exiting the trail into the Tsurai Study Area. The welded wire mesh fencing would prevent traffic from going off trail, similar to a chain-link fence, but is more aesthetically pleasing. An example of wire mesh fencing with wood posts is provided in the photos in Attachment 3.
Prior to construction of the wood boardwalk, the ground surface along the trail alignment where footings are located would need to be prepared by removing organics and loose topsoil. Areas between support posts and low slope terrain have the potential to be constructed with little to no ground disturbance. The bottom of the wood staircase would be suspended above the ground surface. There would be a minimum of 8 inches of clearance from the bottom of the staircase to the ground surface, except for at each support post location. Support footing installation would require that the ground surface would need to be excavated to firm, stable bearing soils. Each support footing would be supported by a reinforced concrete block keyed into the hillside. The soil would need to be scarified, dampened, and compacted at the location of each support footing.
The height from the top of each stair to the top of the wood top rail would be approximately 42-44 inches.
The height from the top of each stair to the steel handrail would be approximately 34-38 inches. The inside width of the boardwalk from wood top rail to wood top rail would be approximately 5 feet. However, the 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 8
steel handrails positioned inside the wood top rails would reduce the total, passable inside width to a minimum of 4 feet.
Longevity and long-term maintenance costs are concerns for trails constructed of wood materials in coastal environments. The result of coastal weathering on trails constructed of wood materials is often extended trail closures due to damaged and unsafe trail conditions. This is a concern for the frame of the boardwalk, which would need to bear weight, the support posts and railing of the boardwalk, which would need to provide stability and keep people and pets on the trail, as well as the actual walking surface of the boardwalk. For these reasons, a trail constructed entirely of wood materials is not recommended nor the preferred solution for these trail improvements.
7.1.2 Conceptual Concrete Stair and Steel Railing
Conceptual ideas for a concrete stair and steel rail trail were considered which would include concrete box stairs with compacted gravel walking surface, galvanized steel support posts, galvanized steel top rails, and steel handrails (could be galvanized or stainless).
There would be a welded wire mesh fencing between each support post that would prevent human and pet traffic from exiting the trail into the Tsurai Study Area. The welded wire mesh fencing would prevent traffic from going off trail, similar to a chain-link fence, but is more aesthetically pleasing. Examples of welded wire mesh options are included in the photos in Attachment 3. Concrete box frames would form the shape of each stair and be filled with compacted gravel. The compacted gravel would form the walking surface. This style of stair is often seen with wood box frames, like what is seen on the existing ALMT. This design would utilize galvanized steel support posts that would be driven into the soil several feet until firmly in place. The steel support rails, and steel support posts, would be connected using commonly available fence bracket connections. The heights and widths of the conceptual concrete stair and steel rail trail are the same as the heights and widths discussed above for the conceptual wood boardwalk.
The disadvantage of using any style of a box stair (concrete or wood) built at ground level is the installation requires more intrusive excavation into the hillside to set the cribbing style stairs. Unlike an elevated boardwalk design that would only require excavation at each isolated support footing, the box stair design requires excavation along the entire length of the stair sections to connect the cribbed pieces that form the box stairs. The advantages to longevity and decreased maintenance of concrete and steel materials does not outweigh the impact that would occur to cultural resources due to the excavation during installation.
Therefore, cribbed stair designs are not considered feasible for this trail because of the soil disturbance that would occur and the associated potential impacts to the sensitive cultural resources along the trail.
7.2 Preferred Conceptual Trail Solution
The preferred conceptual trail solution is an elevated boardwalk with aluminum framing and steel railing, with options for the material used for the walking surface. Conceptual ideas for an elevated boardwalk with aluminum frame and steel railing are provided in Attachment 3 on Figure 3.4 The elevated boardwalk would include elevated staircases and elevated boardwalks, galvanized steel railing posts and top rails, and welded wire mesh fencing. The boardwalk frame would be constructed of metal, which would require less maintenance over time, while the stairs and walking surface could be constructed of a different material (such as wood) that could be replaced as needed. There are several options for the material that could be used to form the walking surface of the boardwalk and stairs, including natural or pressure treated wood, manufactured wood products, aluminum, or other options.
The welded wire mesh fencing between each of the railing posts would prevent human and pet traffic from exiting the trail into the Tsurai Study Area. An example of wire mesh fencing with wood posts is provided in the photos in Attachment 3. Examples of wire mesh fencing with steel posts is provided in the photos in Attachment 3.
Similar to construction of the wood boardwalk, the ground surface along the trail alignment would need minimal preparation and most of the existing trail and wooden steps could remain. The ground surface along the trail alignment where footings are located would need to be prepared by removing organics and loose topsoil. Support footing installation would require that the ground surface would need to be excavated to firm, stable bearing soils. Each support footing would be supported by a reinforced concrete block keyed 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 9
into the hillside. The soil would need to be scarified, dampened, and compacted at the location of each support footing.
Areas between support footings and low slope terrain have the potential to be constructed with less ground disturbance. Areas between support posts and low slope terrain have the potential to be constructed with little to no ground disturbance. It would be desirable to remove the existing wooden steps and associated loose topsoil and organic matter but not necessary. The bottom of the elevated boardwalk would be suspended above the ground surface on discrete concrete foundation elements spaced apart and connected by aluminum stringers. There would be a minimum of 8 inches of clearance from the bottom of the stringers to the ground surface. The heights and widths of the conceptual concrete stair and steel rail trail are the same as the heights and widths discussed above for the conceptual wood boardwalk.
There are many advantages to the conceptual elevated boardwalk with non-wood frame and railing design.
These advantages include:
1. Less excavation during installation and therefore, less potential disturbance to cultural resources.
2. Increased longevity of the aluminum frame, steel support posts, and steel rails compared to wood frame, wood support posts, and wood rails.
3. Reduced long-term maintenance of the aluminum and steel components compared to wood.
4. Multiple options for the material chosen as the boardwalk walking surface, including wood and nonwood options.
For these reasons, the elevated boardwalk with aluminum frame and steel railing is our recommended conceptual design to develop further.
A conceptual rendering of the elevated boardwalk with steel frame and steel railing with wood colored walking surface is presented below as Figure 2.
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 10
Figure 2 Conceptual rendering of the elevated boardwalk with steel frame and railing with treated wood walking surface.
7.3 Bridges
There is potential that two bridges or elevated structures would be necessary for design of the trail that follows the traditional alignment. Approximate locations for the bridges or structures are shown in Attachment 3 on Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2. Both bridges would be located in the lower section of the trail, within the section that would be rerouted to follow the traditional alignment. The first bridge would be needed to cross the stream that flows through the traditional alignment and is anticipated to be a smaller structure. The second bridge would be needed to span the gap between the eroded hillside and the rock on the beach where the traditional alignment meets the beach. This second bridge is anticipated to be longer 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 11
as it would extend from the stable rock on the beach to an unknown point on the adjacent bluff that appears unstable. Additional information will be needed from future topographic surveys and geotechnical investigations to determine an appropriate endpoint of the bridge on the bluff. Therefore, the lengths of the two bridges are not currently known and this provides uncertainty in developing potential costs for these structures.
Photographs of prefabricated, aluminum, pedestrian bridges that have been utilized in other local coastal trail projects are included in the photos in Attachment 3. These photographs are presented as an example of one type of pedestrian bridge that could potentially be utilized for the trail. However, conceptual bridge design should be developed during the next phase of design after the entirety of the Traditional Trail alignment can be accessed and the conditions of the stream and bluff can be evaluated.
It is also important to note that regardless of the final length of the two bridges, they are not anticipated to be brought to the site and installed from Edwards Street and down the trail. They are anticipated to be needed to be brought to the lower beach along with a crane to set them in place on a barge. This approach could work for the lower longer bridge. A crane may or may not be able to reach the second site at the stream crossing which has not been accessed or identified. If it is not accessible by a crane, then the second smaller bridge may be able to be built onsite with materials brought down the trail.
7.4 Rock Access to Beach
The Traditional Trail alignment utilized a large rock on the beach that connects to the bluff and provides access to the beach. This rock can be seen in Attachment 2 Photo 8. One of the bridges described in the previous section would be constructed to provide safe access from the bluff to the top of the rock. In addition to the bridge that would provide access to the top of the rock, stairs of some form, such as concrete steps cast into the rock with a steel railing would be needed to provide safe access down the rock face to the beach. The design of these stairs should be developed in conjunction with the bridge design to ensure that there would be sufficient space for both.
8. Next Steps and Data Gaps
Additional data will be needed to advance these conceptual ideas to an initial design phase. This includes additional site visits, topographic surveys, a geotechnical investigation, discussions with regulatory agencies, CEQA and related studies, and permit applications required for environmental compliance. These recommended next steps are discussed below.
8.1 Field Evaluation of the Traditional Trail Alignment Additional field evaluation will be needed so that the proposed, Traditional Trail alignment can be accessed, surveyed, and observations made regarding the hillside condition and location of the stream that would need to be crossed. This would require some vegetation clearing, as dense vegetation was the primary reason that the Traditional Trail alignment could not be accessed during the initial field reconnaissance.
The vegetation clearing could likely be kept to a minimum and done using hand tools. However, during geotechnical data collection (discussed below) additional vegetation disturbance will likely be necessary to provide equipment access.
There are two primary unknowns that need to be addressed during the future field evaluation. The first primary unknown is the actual Traditional Trail alignment and location of a bridge if needed to cross the stream. The second primary unknown that needs to be evaluated is how the trail will connect from the bluff to the rock on the beach. Significant erosion of the hillside on the west side and location of the stream on the east side of the rock made it impossible during the initial field reconnaissance to evaluate how the trail would connect to the rock on the beach.
8.2 Additional Geotechnical Evaluation
A geotechnical evaluation will be needed prior to design of the trail and the two anticipated bridges or structures that are needed. One of the primary purposes of designing the new trail is to reduce the 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 12
disturbance to the cultural resources, vegetation, and hillside. To minimize disturbances to these resources during a geotechnical investigation, there is potential for a remote access portable auger rig to be used for drilling activities. This type of rig disassembles into pieces that can be carried by foot to the desired location on the hillside. The rig is then reassembled at the drilling location and hydraulic hoses are run from the portable rig, upslope, to a stationary rig that powers the portable unit. There are distance limitations of several hundred feet for the hydraulic lines, which would need to be evaluated during the next project phase. The portable auger rig requires a minimum work area of 3 by 6 feet, which is significantly less than the work area required by an all-terrain track-mounted rig. See Figure 3 below for an example of a remote access portable auger rig that is offered through Clear Heart Drilling out of Santa Rosa, California.
Figure 3 Example of a remote access portable auger rig that is available through Clear Heart Drilling (Clear Heart 2023). The use of a portable rig could significantly reduce the amount of ground and vegetation disturbance during a geotechnical investigation.
8.3 Future Permitting and Environmental Studies
The proposed trail would need to adhere to federal, state and local environmental regulations. It is located on City Property, and it is assumed that the City would be the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and applicant on permit applications. It is unlikely that the Project would be subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) unless it received federal funding. Compliance with NEPA is included as an optional task.
Biological and cultural inventories (“special studies”) would be conducted to determine which protected resources (if any) are present within the Project footprint. This inventory of environmental resources would help determine which resources may be affected by the Project and inform which permits are necessary to apply for. The following special studies would be conducted to inform CEQA and permitting:
– Biological Resources Report (BRR)
• Includes a site visit documenting habitat conditions, surveys and mapped locations of any sensitive vegetation communities and rare plants, and desktop review of potential special status 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 13
plants and wildlife that could occur in the Project footprint. The BRR would be utilized to inform CEQA and permit applications.
– Wetland Delineation and Report
• Includes field work and generation of report to document aquatic resources within the Project footprint that is subject to the federal Clean Water Act, and/or state Porter-Cologne Act. – Cultural Resources Report
• Includes desktop and fieldwork to determine if sensitive cultural resources are or have high potential to occur within the Project footprint. This report would help satisfy Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
CEQA is designed to ensure that state government agencies consider the environmental consequences of projects prior to approving plans or policies or committing to a course of action on a project (CEQA 2023).
The first step of CEQA is to determine if the Project falls under a statutory or categorical exemption from CEQA. If the Project is not exempt, the next step is to prepare an initial study to determine whether the Project might result in significant environmental impacts. Depending on the results of the initial study, the next step is to prepare a negative declaration, mitigated negative declaration, or environmental impact report (EIR) to fulfill CEQA requirements. It is anticipated that this Project would fall under an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (ISMND).
The following permits or compliance actions are anticipated to be required:
– Clean Water Act Section 404, administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. – Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification, administered by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.
– Construction General Permit (typically required only if the Project is over one acre) administered by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Includes preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). – Coastal Development Permit, administered by the California Coastal Commission. – Potential consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for impacts to California Endangered Species Act listed species.
– Potential consultation with the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service and/or National Marine Fisheries Service for potential impact to federally Endangered Species Act listed species. • Includes preparation of a Biological Assessment (BA). – CEQA via an ISMND.
– NEPA via an Environmental Assessment (only required if federal funding or discretion is utilized).
8.4 Permitting Timeline
An approximate timeline is provided below for completion of environmental compliance activities:
5. Special studies: Approximately three to six months
a. Rare plant and vegetation surveys must occur in the spring and summer. b. Preferred to conduct wetland delineation in late winter/early spring.
6. CEQA: Approximately six to nine months.
7. Permit applications:
a. Approximately one to three months to prepare (pending Project design at 65%). b. Three months review time by agencies which is often an iterative process of questions and communication between agency and applicant.
c. Assume nine months between permit application submittal and permit issuance.
Overlap can occur between steps one through three to shorten the overall process. It should be assumed that the entire compliance timeframe is approximately twelve to eighteen months. 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 14
9. Planning Level Opinion of Probable Construction Cost The planning level opinion of probable construction cost (OPCC) is presented in Attachment 4. There is a separate table that presents the OPCC for the preferred concept and the wood stairs and wood railing concept discussed in previous sections. Note that each OPCC is based on these current concepts, which inherently have a lot of unknowns regarding design components, design details, quantities of materials, and other aspects of the proposed trail concepts. Estimating contingencies are commonly used for this reason.
The contingency amounts are typically reduced as the project design advances from the conceptual stage to the final design stage.
The OPCCs for each concept were developed as a planning tool and for comparison purposes. There are several project components that are the same for each concept, such as the two bridges. As mentioned previously, there are many unknowns at this conceptual stage. One of these unknowns is the size of the bridge that may be necessary at the bottom of the trail to span the distance from the rock on the beach back to the stable bluff area. Due to this unknown, assumptions were made with the intent of being conservative with the associated unit cost for that item. Since the same unit cost was used for both concepts, that line item does not make a difference when comparing the two concepts. It is important to understand that additional information is required to refine that one-unit price, and that is an example of why the estimating contingency is an important component used to develop our final opinion of probable construction cost.
10. Recommendations
GHD has reviewed historical data and conducted an initial site reconnaissance in preparation of the conceptual designs presented herein. The conceptual designs and discussion also take into consideration the importance of minimizing disturbance to this rich cultural area and the coastal environment and weathering effects that the trail will need to withstand. The initial capital costs and desired aesthetics of a project are important as is the need to consider the long-term maintenance costs so that an appropriate project concept can be developed and ultimately implemented. These aspects were qualitatively considered, and a present worth analysis to account for operation and maintenance costs over the expected life cycle of the project is recommended in the future as the project progresses.
The wood stairs and wood railing option have an aesthetic that is often desired for local hiking trails.
However, exposure to the coastal environment would cause structural and aesthetic damage to the wood materials in a shorter time frame than concrete and aluminum or coated steel materials. The concrete stairs and steel railing option is expected to have a longer overall lifetime and require less maintenance.
However, a box stair design is not considered feasible for this trail due to the amount of required excavation and likely disturbance to cultural resources that would result from installation.
For the reasons discussed above, GHD is recommending that the conceptual design selected for further development be the elevated boardwalk with aluminum framing and steel railing option. This option minimizes the footprint of excavation and therefore helps minimize the potential for disturbance to cultural resources. The galvanized steel railing and support posts are expected to have greater longevity and lower long-term maintenance cost than wood railing and posts. There are several options for construction materials for the elevated boardwalk walking surface, including materials that are more resistant to coastal weathering processes. Overall, the elevated boardwalk with aluminum framing and steel railing option provides a solution for protecting cultural resources while also providing the community with a trail that could see fewer trail closures due to reduced maintenance requirements.
Capital costs must also be considered. Based on the two conceptual designs of an elevated boardwalk, our opinion of probable construction costs for the recommended metal frame and steel railing option is approximately 30% more than the wood frame and wood railing option. This is not surprising as aluminum, or other non-wood components, are typically more expensive than wood materials. Maintenance requirements over the expected life cycle of the project must also be considered and minimized for both public safety and maintenance cost reasons.
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 15
To develop the proposed project design, additional information is required. The preferred trail alignment needs to be accessible to conduct additional field studies such as a topographic survey and geotechnical investigation. This information could then be used to develop 30% design plans which help identify the project components and allow for review and revisions before being developed to the 65% design stage.
Conducting additional fieldwork to identify biological, botanical, wetland, and cultural resources allows CEQA to be completed. Discussions with regulatory agencies could then occur and result in permit applications being submitted as required. These items are often combined into a proposal for grant funding to develop and refine the design, complete the environmental documentation, and develop an updated opinion of probable construction costs based on the 65% design. These deliverables then provide the basis for securing implementation funds allowing the project to be constructed.
Following is a table of planning level costs anticipated to advance the design to the 65% level, complete CEQA, and submit permit applications.
Regards
Steve Allen, PE
Project Manager
Mindi Curran, PG
Project Geologist
1 Grant Administration $ 10,000
3 Topographic Survey $ 60,000
4 Geotechnical Investigation $ 80,000
5 30% Design Plans $ 60,000
6 65% Design Plans, and OPCC $ 95,000
7 Environmental Documentation $ 50,000
8 Biological Assessment, NEPA EA, and CESA Coordination (If Needed) $ 35,000 9 CEQA (assuming IS/MND) $ 60,000
10 Permit Applications $ 25,000
Opinion of Probable Project Costs $ 475,000
Item No. Item Description Total for Line Item
Mindi L.Curran
Technical Memorandum
The Power of Commitment
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 16
11. References
Busch Geotechnical Consultants. 2009. Results of Factor-of-Safety Analysis and Erosion-Rate Assessment for Proposed Marshall Residence, Edwards Street, Trinidad, Humboldt County, California (APN 042-042- 005 and -013).
California Environmental Quality Act. 2023. Accessed June 2023: CEQA: The California Environmental Quality Act - Office of Planning and Research
Clear Heart Drilling. Example of Remote Access Portable Auger Rig. Accessed June 2023: GeoTechnical | Clear Heart Drilling
Crawford and Associates, Inc. 2013. Slope Stability Analyses for the Trinidad Stormwater Improvement Project, Trinidad, California. Prepared for GHD.
Kathleen Sloan & Megan Rocha (Yurok Tribe Environmental Program). 2007. Final Tsurai Management Plan. Prepared for the Tsurai Management Team, California Coastal Conservancy, City of Trinidad, Tsurai Ancestral Society, and the Yurok Tribe.
LACO Associates. 2004. Engineering Geological Assessment off Tsurai Village with Recommendations for Future Management. Prepared for the Tsurai Ancestral Society.
National Environmental Policy Act. 2023. What is the National Environmental Policy Act? Accessed June 2023: What is the National Environmental Policy Act? | US EPA Pacific Watershed Associates. 2008. Preliminary Geologic Hazard Report for APNs 042-042-005 and 042- 042-013, located on Hector Street in Trinidad, California.
Redwood Community Action Agency. 1995. Indian Beach Trail Access Feasibility Study, Trinidad, California. Prepared for the State Coastal Conservancy Contract # 93-048.
SHN. 1996. Addendum to Geologic Report for Two Trail Alternatives South of Edwards Street, Trinidad, California. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
SHN. 2016. Coastal Bluff Setback Analysis, 20 Scenic Drive, Trinidad, California. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
SHN. 2017. Landslide Mitigation Assessment, Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse and Edwards Street, Trinidad, California. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
SHN. 2017b. Preliminary Assessment of Current Slope Stability Conditions, Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse, Edwards Street, Trinidad. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
SHN. 2019. Coastal Landslide Hazard Evaluation, City of Trinidad, California. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
SHN. 2022. Coastal Bluff Mapping, City of Trinidad, California. Prepared for the City of Trinidad.
Tsurai Ancestral Society. 2022. Seventh Generation Fund for Indigenous Peoples Grant Application. 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 17
Attachments
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 18
Attachment 1
Examples Provided by Tsurai Ancestral
Society
The Power of Commitment
12608028 | Attachment 1 Examples Provided by Client 1
Examples Provided by Client
Photo 1 Example boardwalk with railing provided by the Tsurai Ancestral Society.
Photo 2 Example boardwalk platform with stairs style provided by the Tsurai Ancestral Society. 12608028 | Attachment 1 Examples Provided by Client 2
Photo 3 Example boardwalk steep stair section provided by Tsurai Ancestral Society.
Photo 4 Example boardwalk with wire mesh fencing provided by Tsurai Ancestral Society. 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 19
Attachment 2
Site Photographs
The Power of Commitment
12608028 | Attachment 2 Site Photographs 1
Site Photographs
Photo 1 Facing west at the top of the staircase of the Trinidad Memorial Park. The Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail (ALMT) begins where the barricades are placed. The barricades are to limit trail access due to erosion of the base of the trail.
Photo 2 Facing west along the ALMT.
12608028 | Attachment 2 Site Photographs 2
Photo 3 Facing west, looking at a tent that was setup illegally along the trail where the resting bench is located.
This emphasizes the need for a trail design that prevents access into the Tsurai Study Area (TSA).
Photo 4 Facing west, moving down the trail toward the beach. 12608028 | Attachment 2 Site Photographs 3
Photo 5 At the location where the traditional alignment deviates from the existing ALMT. The traditional alignment would head north, towards the right side of the photo.
Photo 6 Looking at the top of the biodegradable erosion control fabric that was placed on the bare slope at the bottom of the trail. The slope was eroded by wave action. 12608028 | Attachment 2 Site Photographs 4
Photo 7 Looking at where the ALMT would meet the beach. The biodegradable erosion control fabric was installed as part of another project to try and reduce further erosion of the exposed slope.
Photo 8 Facing east, standing on the beach looking at the rock that the traditional trail used to access the beach. 12608028 | Attachment 2 Site Photographs 5
Photo 9 Facing west, looking at the small stream that is located on the south side of the rock that the traditional trail used to access the beach.
Photo 10 Facing west, looking at the beach from the top of the rock. The traditional trail accessed the rock from the bluff slope and then continued down the rock to the beach. 12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 20
Attachment 3
Conceptual Drawings and Details
0+00
1+00
2+00
3+00
4+00 4+03 0+00 0+96 718 Third Street Eureka California 95501 USA T 1 707 443 8326 F 1 707 444 8330 W www.ghd.com GHD Inc. Reuse of Documents This document and the ideas and designs incorporated herein, as an instrument of professional service, is the property of GHD and shall not be reused in whole or in part for any other project without GHD's written authorization. © 2023 GHD Drawn Date Title Project Project Number Sheet No. Project Manager AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL 12608028 Steve Allen AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL CONCEPT PLAN FIG 3.1 5/23/2023 TW EDWARDS STREET OLD HOME BEACH (N) TRAIL AT (E) AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL ALIGNMENT 1 ALMT CONCEPT PLAN SCALE: 1" = 40' 0 20' 40' 80' N ⅊ ⅊ ⅊ APPROXIMATE (E) AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL ALIGNMENT REPRESENTATION OF (N) AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL ALIGNMENT REST AREA W/ BENCH LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND NO STAIR LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND NO BOARDWALK LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND NO STAIR 2 FIG3.2 4 FIG3.3
MEMORIAL
PARK (E) WALK AND STAIR AT MEMORIAL PARK SITE (N) BRIDGE TO (E) BASE ROCK AT BEACH. 6 FIG3.4 APPROX. LOCATION OF POSSIBLE (N) BRIDGE AT (E) DRAINAGE ENTRY TO TRAIL FROM MEMORIAL PARK AREA NOTE: 1. STAIR AND BOARDWALK STRUCTURE TO BE ANALYZED IN DESIGN PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF FINAL PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND OPINION OF COST. SPANS REPRESENTED, SIZE OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS, AND TYPE AND NUMBER OF MEMBERS SHOWN IN CURRENT FIGURES DEPICT GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS AND ARE THE BEST CURRENT ESTIMATE OF CONSTRUCTION.
ELEVATION STATION 0102030405060708090 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170-0+25 0+00 0+50 1+00 1+50 2+00 2+50 3+00 3+50 4+00 4+50 718 Third Street Eureka California 95501 USA T 1 707 443 8326 F 1 707 444 8330 W www.ghd.com GHD Inc. Reuse of Documents This document and the ideas and designs incorporated herein, as an instrument of professional service, is the property of GHD and shall not be reused in whole or in part for any other project without GHD's written authorization. © 2023 GHD Drawn Date Title Project Project Number Sheet No. Project Manager AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL 12608028 Steve Allen AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL CONCEPT PROFILE FIG 3.2 5/23/2023 TW 2 ALMT CONCEPT PROFILE SCALE: 1" = 40' REST AREA AND BENCH (E) GRADE AT CURRENT TRAIL ALIGNMENT (N) RAIL AT (N) STAIR LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND BOARDWALK LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND BOARDWALK REPRESENTATION OF (N) TRAIL ALIGNMENT (E) GRADE AT CURRENT TRAIL ALIGNMENT (E) WALK, STAIR AT MEMORIAL PARK (N) BRIDGE OR STRUCTURE TO SPAN TO (E) BASE ROCK AT BEACH 4 FIG3.3 6 FIG3.4 ENTRY TO TRAIL FROM MEMORIAL PARK AREA (N) STRUCTURE WHERE NECESSARY TO PROVIDE FOR (E) DRAINAGE. LOCATION TO BE VERIFIED AS AVAILABLE WITH SITE ACCESS. (E) GRADE AT CURRENT TRAIL ALIGNMENT (N) HANDRAIL (N) TOP RAIL LOW SLOPE AREA W/ RAILS AND BOARDWALK A NO STAIR AT LOW SLOPE DETAIL SCALE: 1" = 10' (NO VERTICAL EXAGERATION) (N) POST (N) STAIR (N) FENCE MESH VERTICAL EXAGGERATION = 2 VERTICAL : 1 HORIZONTAL (N) FOOTING NOTE: 1. STAIR AND BOARDWALK STRUCTURE TO BE ANALYZED IN DESIGN PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF FINAL PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND OPINION OF COST. SPANS REPRESENTED, SIZE OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS, AND TYPE AND NUMBER OF MEMBERS SHOWN IN CURRENT FIGURES DEPICT GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS AND ARE THE BEST CURRENT ESTIMATE OF CONSTRUCTION. 42" - 44"
8" MIN CLR
34" - 38" 5'-0" 1.5" MIN. 4.5" MAX. 4'-0" MIN. CLR. WIDTH 718 Third Street Eureka California 95501 USA T 1 707 443 8326 F 1 707 444 8330 W www.ghd.com GHD Inc. Reuse of Documents This document and the ideas and designs incorporated herein, as an instrument of professional service, is the property of GHD and shall not be reused in whole or in part for any other project without GHD's written authorization. © 2023 GHD Drawn Date Title Project Project Number Sheet No. Project Manager AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL 12608028 Steve Allen AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL CONCEPT WOOD DETAILS FIG 3.3 5/23/2023 TW (2) 2X TOP RAILS 6X POST AT APPROX 6' O.C. GALV. 12g WELDED WIRE MESH FENCING2X MID AND BOTTOM RAIL (3) STRINGER W/ 7X11 STEP OR SHALLOWER 2X TREAD AND RISER (2) 2X TOP RAILS 2X TREAD AND RISER REINF. CONC. PAD FOOTING AT SUPPORT POSTS (2) 1-1/2" DIA GALV. STEEL HANDRAILS 3 WOOD BOARDWALK PROFILE SCALE: 1/2" = 1' 4 WOOD BOARDWALK SECTION SCALE: 1/2" = 1' 3 REINF. CONC. PAD FOOTING AT SUPPORT POSTS APPROX. LOCATION OF EXISTING GRADE REMOVE ORGANICS AND LOOSE TOPSOIL. EXCAVATE TO FIRM, STABLE BEARING SOILS. SCARIFY, DAMPEN, AND COMPACT BELOW FOOTINGS. NOTE: 1. STAIR AND BOARDWALK STRUCTURE TO BE ANALYZED IN DESIGN PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF FINAL PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND OPINION OF COST. SPANS REPRESENTED, SIZE OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS, AND TYPE AND NUMBER OF MEMBERS SHOWN IN CURRENT FIGURES DEPICT GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS AND ARE THE BEST CURRENT ESTIMATE OF CONSTRUCTION. 34" - 38" 5'-0" 1.5" MIN. 4.5" MAX. 4'-0" MIN. CLR. WIDTH 42" - 44"
8" MIN CLR 718 Third Street Eureka California 95501 USA T 1 707 443 8326 F 1 707 444 8330 W www.ghd.com GHD Inc. Reuse of Documents This document and the ideas and designs incorporated herein, as an instrument of professional service, is the property of GHD and shall not be reused in whole or in part for any other project without GHD's written authorization. © 2023 GHD Drawn Date Title Project Project Number Sheet No. Project Manager AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL 12608028 Steve Allen AXEL LINDGREN MEMORIAL TRAIL CONCEPT METAL RAIL & FRAME WITH WOOD STAIR DETAILS FIG 3.4 5/23/2023 TW NOTE: 1. STAIR AND BOARDWALK STRUCTURE TO BE ANALYZED IN DESIGN PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF FINAL PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND OPINION OF COST. SPANS REPRESENTED, SIZE OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS, AND TYPE AND NUMBER OF MEMBERS SHOWN IN CURRENT FIGURES DEPICT GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS AND ARE THE BEST CURRENT ESTIMATE OF CONSTRUCTION. 5 5 METAL RAIL & FRAME WITH WOOD STAIR PROFILE SCALE: 1/2" = 1' 6 METAL RAIL & FRAME WITH WOOD STAIR SECTION SCALE: 1/2" = 1' 2-1/2 DIA GALV. STEEL POST AT APPROX 6' O.C., TYP. FENCE BRACKET CONNECTIONS APPROX. LOCATION OF EXISTING GRADE GALV. WELDED WIRE MESH FABRIC 12g MIN. (2) 1-1/2" DIA GALV. STEEL HANDRAILS (2) 1-1/2" DIA. GALV. STEEL TOP RAILS 2X TREAD AND RISER REINF. CONC. PAD FOOTING AT SUPPORT POSTS APPROX. LOCATION REMOVE ORGANICS AND LOOSE OF EXISTING GRADE TOPSOIL. EXCAVATE TO FIRM, STABLE BEARING SOILS. SCARIFY, DAMPEN, AND COMPACT BELOW FOOTINGS. 2X TREAD AND RISER REINF. CONC. PAD FOOTING AT SUPPORT POSTS ALUMINUM STRINGER / FRAME ALUMINUM STRINGER / FRAME MOUNTING BRACKET The Power of Commitment
12608028 | Attachment 3 Example Bridges and Materials 1 Example Pedestrian Bridges and Construction Materials
Photo 1 Example of wire mesh and wood railing. (Product image found online provided by Wild Hog Railing).
Photo 2 Example of a stainless-steel welded wire mesh and railing. (Product image found online provided by Hightop Metal Mesh).
12608028 | Attachment 3 Example Bridges and Materials 2 Photo 3 Example of a galvanized steel welded wire cloth and railing. (Product image found online provided by Enzar).
Photo 4 Example of a prefabricated aluminum pedestrian bridge. This bridge is located on the Eureka Waterfront Trail.
12608028 | Attachment 3 Example Bridges and Materials 3 Photo 5 Side view of a prefabricated aluminum pedestrian bridge. This bridge is located on the Eureka Waterfront Trail.
Photo 6 Example of a prefabricated aluminum pedestrian bridge used to cover a long distance. This bridge is located on the Eureka Waterfront Trail.
12608028 ALMT Conceptual Restoration Solutions 21
Attachment 4
Planning Level Opinion of Probable
Construction Cost
Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail Concept - Wood Stairs and Wood Railing Based on design concepts for planning and comparison purposes June 30, 2023
1 Mobilization/Demobilization 1 LS $ 65,000 $ 65,000
3 Pedestrian Trail Closure - Signage and Construction Fencing 1 LS $ 5,000 $ 5,000 4 Erosion & Sediment Control Measures 1 LS $ 10,000 $ 10,000 5 Site Preparation, Excavation 1 LS $ 20,000 $ 20,000
6 Stair & Rail Construction 1 LS $ 375,000 $ 375,000
7 Pedestrian Bridge - Trail to Rock 1 LS $ 250,000 $ 250,000 8 Pedestrian Bridge - Drainage 1 LS $ 80,000 $ 80,000
9 Concrete Stair - Rock to Beach 1 LS $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 855,000
Estimating Contingency (30%) $ 256,500
Opinion of Probable Construction Cost $ 1,111,500
SUBTOTAL
Planning Level Opinion of Probable Construction Costs (OPCC) Item No. Item Description QTY. UNIT Unit Price Total for Line Item
Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail Concept - Aluminum Framing and Steel Railing Based on design concepts for planning and comparison purposes June 30, 2023
1 Mobilization/Demobilization 1 LS $ 85,000 $ 85,000
3 Pedestrian Trail Closure - Signage and Construction Fencing 1 LS $ 5,000 $ 5,000 4 Erosion & Sediment Control Measures 1 LS $ 10,000 $ 10,000 5 Site Preparation, Excavation 1 LS $ 20,000 $ 20,000
6 Stair & Rail Construction 1 LS $ 640,000 $ 640,000
7 Pedestrian Bridge - Trail to Rock 1 LS $ 250,000 $ 250,000 8 Pedestrian Bridge - Drainage 1 LS $ 80,000 $ 80,000
9 Concrete Stair - Rock to Beach 1 LS $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 1,140,000
Estimating Contingency (30%) $ 342,000
Opinion of Probable Construction Cost $ 1,482,000
SUBTOTAL
Planning Level Opinion of Probable Construction Costs (OPCC) Item No. Item Description QTY. UNIT Unit Price Total for Line Item DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM 2
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
2. Discussion/Decision regarding Appeal of Planning Commission’s Denial to Extend the Temporary Closure of the Van Wycke Trail, CDP#2024-01E. p. 1
Trinidad 2024-01E Agenda Item Report 10-08-24 CC Meeting
DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM
Date: October 8, 2024
Item: Trinidad 2024-01E: Appeal of the Planning Commission's denial of an extension of a Coastal Development Permit for continued temporary closure of the Van Wycke Trail.
Background
At their September 18 meeting, the Planning Commission considered and denied (2-1) an extension of the temporary closure of the Van Wycke Trail (VWT), Coastal Development Permit #2024-01. The VWT has been failing for many years and getting progressively worse over time. The trail has been closed since August 2020 based on the recommendation from the City’s insurance provider, which has excluded the trail from liability coverage. Since then, staff have explored options for trail repairs. However, both the Tsurai Ancestral Society and the Yurok Tribe oppose reopening of the trail. Staff have yet to find an acceptable solution and have recommended that the trail closure be extended. The existing closure will expire on October 22, 2024.
Planning Commission Action
The Planning Commission denied the continued closure for several reasons, similar to their denial of the continued closure of the Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail. They do not feel that adequate progress has been made to reopen the trail and that finding a solution has not been adequately prioritized. Under these circumstances, they felt that the closure would not be consistent with policies of the Trinidad General Plan or Coastal Act. They expressed a desire for the City Council to be more involved and proactive in working towards finding solutions. The Planning Commission understood that their decision would likely be appealed due to the existing physical limitations on the trail, but they saw this as a path to getting the issue before the City Council. The decision to deny the project was close (2-1), with only three Commissioners in attendance. The attached staff report and an excerpt from the draft minutes provide additional details.
Appeal Process
Per Zoning Ordinance/Trinidad Municipal (TMC) § 17.72.100, Planning Commission actions are appealable to the City Council within 10 working days of the decision.
Therefore, the appeal period ran through October 1, 2024. The Planning Commission’s decision can be appealed by any interested person that submitted either written or oral comments to the Planning Commission on this issue. The City Manager spoke in favor of the extension. Therefore, pursuant to TMC § 17.72.100, he qualifies as an aggrieved person with standing to appeal the decision.
Additional Analysis
Staff recommends that the City Council uphold the appeal and reverse the Planning Commission’s denial of the extension of CDP #2024-01 for the continued temporary closure of the VWT due to unsafe conditions. The City’s insurance provider has excluded the VWT from liability coverage. Therefore, City staff believe the trail should remained closed at this time.
p. 2
Trinidad 2024-01E Agenda Item Report 10-08-24 CC Meeting Although progress towards reopening the trail has been slower than hoped, progress has been made. One of the significant factors has been that the Tsurai Ancestral Society and Yurok Tribe oppose reopening the trail due to potential impacts to cultural resources. It is unclear whether a compromise can be reached. The City Council has appointed two representatives to conduct government-to-government consultation with the Yurok Tribe, TAS, and Rancheria regarding the trail closure. The closure extension will allow additional time to conduct those consultations so the Council can make better informed decisions regarding the trail in the future. At some point, the Council will need to decide whether to continue to pursue repair options or permanently close the trail.
In the meantime, pedestrian improvements are currently being implemented on Edwards Street that will provide pedestrians with a safer way to traverse between the Harbor Area and the upper part of town. This is not considered an alternative to the VWT, but provides some mitigation for the temporary closure, and is beneficial in its own right.
Due to concerns expressed by the public and the Planning Commission, staff have revised the proposed extension to be for only three months instead of six. This should still allow time for the City Council to meet with the interested tribal groups. In addition, the City has received new information from its insurance provider that might allow the trail to be reopened in essentially its current condition while long-term plans are still being considered. An option for the City Council to extend the closure for an additional three months after this extension has been included as a condition of approval. After that, a new CDP would be required to keep the trail closed.
The Planning Commission’s approval of the temporary closure in March included a condition that allowed for the extension of the closure if certain conditions are met:
1. Because the approval is for a temporary trail closure, the CDP shall expire after six months of going into effect, unless an extension is granted by the Planning Commission based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the Planning Commission finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.
Because (1) the closure is truly temporary, even if it has already been closed for a length of time; (2) the trail is located in a culturally and geologically sensitive area; (3) the trail should be improved for better passage prior to continued public use; and (4) more time is needed to conduct consultation with interested tribal groups; therefore the project can be found to be consistent with applicable policies and regulations, including Trinidad General Plan Policy 64 and Coastal Act § 30221.
Recommendation
Based on the above, staff recommends that the City Council uphold the appeal and reverse the Planning Commission’s denial of CDP #2024-01E and approve the continued temporary closure of the VWT for another three months as conditioned below. If the City Council agrees with staff’s analysis, the motion could be as follows:
p. 3
Trinidad 2024-01E Agenda Item Report 10-08-24 CC Meeting Based on application materials and information included in this staff report and the Planning Commission staff report, and based on public testimony and the discussion at the Planning Commission hearing, I find that the project is consistent with the City’s certified LCP and other applicable regulations, and I move to uphold the appeal, adopt the information and findings in this staff report and approve the project as described in the staff report, and as conditioned therein.
Alternatives
If the City Council does not agree with staff’s analysis, or if information is presented during the hearing that conflicts with the information contained in the staff report, the City Council has several alternatives:
A. Alter the proposed conditions of approval to address any specific concerns on the part of the Council or the public.
B. Delay action / continue the hearing to obtain further information. • In this case, the City Council should specify any additional information required from staff and / or suggestions on how to modify the project and / or conditions of approval.
C. Denial of the project.
• The City Council should provide a motion that identifies the reasons for the denial.
Conditions of Approval
1. Because the approval is for a temporary trail closure, the CDP shall expire after three months of going into effect, unless an additional three-month extension is granted by the City Council based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the City Council finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.
Attachments
• City Manager’s appeal
• Planning Commission staff report
• Excerpt from the draft minutes
p. 1
VWT Closure Extension and Update September 18, 2024 PC Meeting
DISCUSSION / ACTION AGENDA ITEM
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Item: Trinidad 2024-01E: Extension of the temporary closure of the Van Wycke Trail (VWT) for an additional six months to allow the City to continue to pursue repair and/or alternative access options and for the City Council to engage in consultation with the Yurok Tribe and Tsurai Ancestral Society regarding impacts of the trail to cultural resources.
Background
The VWT has been failing for many years and getting progressively worse over time. The City obtained grant funding to complete a large trail repair project in 2017. However, that project became controversial due to the size and scope of the project and the City ended up returning the unused grant funds as time ran out to explore other alternatives. In the meantime, the City’s insurance provider completed a risk assessment and determined that they could not provide liability coverage for the VWT and recommended it to be closed.
The Planning Commission approved a temporary 6-month closure of the trail in August 2020 to give City staff time to explore alternative repair options. That decision was appealed to the City Council and upheld. That action was appealed to the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission did not immediately schedule the appeal for a hearing hoping that the City would find an alternative solution that might render the appeal moot. But those efforts stalled, and the Coastal Commission moved forward to consider whether the appeal raised any substantial issues at their September 2023 meeting. They found no substantial issue with temporary closure of the trail, but they made it clear that they wanted the City to make substantial progress on finding solutions within the approved 6-month closure period.
Since September 2023, City staff have met monthly with Coastal Commission staff to discuss progress on development of repair options and/or alternative access. While the Coastal Commission made it clear that they felt this trail was regionally important coastal public access, both the Yurok Tribe and Tsurai Ancestral Society (TAS) have requested, on multiple occasions, that the trail be permanently closed due to the cultural sensitivity of its location. Coastal Commission staff seem to have concurred with this stance.
City staff have also met with the Tsurai Management Team on several occasions to explore potential repair options. At this point, it is unclear whether there are any repair or relocation options that would address the cultural resource concerns to the point of gaining support from the Yurok Tribe and TAS. Staff have also met with upslope property owners to discuss the possibility of moving the trail upslope. In the meantime, staff also developed some short and long-term pedestrian access improvements for Edwards Street that help mitigate the closure of the VWT, and also provide beneficial improvements to public access in their own right. The short-term improvements are currently under construction. The City Council p. 2
VWT Closure Extension and Update September 18, 2024 PC Meeting expressed an interest in government-to-government consultation with the Yurok Tribe and TAS to better understand their concerns. To that end, the City Council appointed two Council representatives at their August meeting to engage in that consultation.
Current Conditions
The City’s original temporary closure of the VWT expired on March 6, 2024. Due to the fact that the trail cannot be reopened in its present state because of the lack of liability insurance, the Planning Commission approved a new six-month closure on March 20, 2024 with an allowance for the Planning Commission to extend the closure “based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the Planning Commission finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.” That closure expires on October 22, 2024. Although some people still use the closed trail, the conditions continue to deteriorate with foot traffic likely exacerbating erosion. And the trail is still excluded from the City’s liability insurance. Additional time is needed for the City Council to consult with the Yurok Tribe and TAS and then decide whether to continue to pursue repair options. As described above, progress had been made in consulting with the TMT, Coastal Commission staff and upslope neighbors, as well as planning and implementing pedestrian improvements on Edwards. Therefore, staff are recommending that the Planning Commission extend the temporary closure for another six months.
Note that this extension does not constitute a new CDP that would be appealable to the Coastal Commission. However, all Planning Commission decisions are appealable to the City Council.
Staff Recommendation/Suggested Action(s):
Because of the need to continue to the closure of the VWT until repairs can be completed due to the currently unsafe and unstable conditions, lack of liability insurance on the trail, concerns regarding impacts to cultural resources and the need to consult with the Yurok Tribe and TAS, and based on the fact that staff continue to work on finding viable repair options, staff recommends extending the closure of the VWT for another six months. The extension may be granted with the following motion:
Based on application materials and information included in this Staff Report, and based on public testimony, I find that the project is consistent with the City’s certified LCP and other applicable regulations, and I move to adopt the information and findings in this staff report and approve the project as described in this staff report, with the following condition:
1. Because the approval is for a temporary trail closure, the CDP shall expire after six months of going into effect, unless an extension is granted by the Planning Commission based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the Planning Commission finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.
Attachments
• Final staff report for Trinidad 2024-01 (8 pages)
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) Application Filed: NA
Staff: Trever Parker
Staff Report: March 11, 2024
Commission Hearing Date: March 20, 2024
Commission Action: Conditionally Approved
STAFF REPORT: CITY OF TRINIDAD
APPLICATION NO: 2024-01
APPLICANT / OWNER(S): City of Trinidad
AGENT: NA
PROJECT LOCATION: Unpaved section of the Van Wycke Trail between Edwards Street and Galindo Street
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Coastal Development Permit for the temporary closure of a portion of the Van Wycke Trail due to
unsafe conditions
ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) ZONING: NA
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION: NA
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: Categorically Exempt per § 15304 of the CEQA Guidelines exempting minor alterations of land,
including temporary use of land having
negligible or no permanent effects on the
environment.
APPEAL STATUS:
Planning Commission action on a Coastal Development Permit, Conditional Use Permit, Variance, and/or Design Review approval application will become final 10 working days after the date that the Coastal Commission receives a “Notice of Action Taken” from the City unless an appeal to the City Council is filed in the office of the City Clerk at that time. Furthermore, this project is _X_ / is not ___ appealable to the Coastal Commission per the City’s certified LCP, and may be appealable per Section 30603 of the Coastal Act. Final action by the City on an appealable Coastal Development Permit will not become effective until 10 working days after the local appeal period has run out and no valid appeal has been filed with the Coastal Commission within that time.
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) SITE CHARACTERISTICS:
The project location is within the unpaved portion of the Van Wycke Street right-of-way where the trail has significantly slumped and a wooden retaining wall that supported a portion of the Van Wycke Trail has failed due to an active landslide. The site is located on the top of the bluff, approximately half-way between Galindo and the intersection of Edwards Streets with upper Van Wycke Street, about 300’ east of Galindo. There is a “slump earthflow” in this area that is slowly and continually moving downslope, that has compromised the integrity of the existing retaining wall and the trail beyond simple repairs and maintenance.
This trail connects the upper and lower sections of Van Wycke Street and provides a safe path for non-motorized traffic to reach Trinidad Head and Trinidad State Beach while avoiding this section of Edwards Street, most of which lacks sidewalks and has steady vehicular traffic. The trail is perched along the upper edge of a steep slope where significant earth movement has occurred in places, resulting in the City having to close the trail due to the hazardous conditions. A wooden retaining wall built to stabilize the worst section has been gradually torn apart over the last 10+ years by the hillside’s movement. The worst stretch has sunk more than 10 feet in just the last few years.
Land uses adjacent to the project include residences upslope and open space downslope. Launcher Beach is located below the bluff.
STAFF COMMENTS:
Brief History
The Van Wycke Trail has been failing for many years and is getting progressively worse over time. The City obtained grant funding to complete a large trail repair project in 2017. However, that project became controversial due to the size and scope of the project and the City ended up having to return the unused grant funds as time ran out to explore other alternatives. In the meantime, the City’s insurance provider completed a risk assessment and determined that they could not provide liability coverage for the Van Wycke Trail and recommended it to be closed.
The Planning Commission approved a temporary 6-month closure of the trail in August 2020 to give City staff time to explore alternative repair options. That decision was appealed to the City Council and upheld. That action was appealed to the Coastal Commission, which would have invalidated the City’s action, but due to the dangerous condition of the trail, the Coastal Commission did not request the City to reopen it during the appeal process. And the Coastal Commission did not immediately schedule the appeal for a hearing hoping that the City would find an alternative solution that might render the appeal moot. But those efforts stalled, and the Coastal Commission
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) moved forward to consider whether the appeal raised any substantial issues at their September 2023 meeting. They found no substantial issue with temporary closure of the trail, which reinstated the City’s action, but made it clear that they wanted the City to make substantial progress on finding solutions within the approved 6-month closure period.
Recent Progress
Since September 2023, City staff have met monthly with Coastal Commission staff to discuss progress on the development of repair options and/or alternative access. While the Coastal Commission made it clear that they felt this trail was regionally important coastal public access, both the Yurok Tribe and Tsurai Ancestral Society (TAS) have requested, on multiple occasions, that the trail be permanently closed due to the cultural sensitivity of its location.
In addition, a representative of the City’s insurance provider, PARSAC, revisited the trail in anticipation of potential changes in its status. PARSAC, or the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of CA, is a Joint Powers Authority made up of a co-op of 37 cities providing self-funded liability coverage. At their board meeting in December 2023, they voted to formally exclude the Van Wycke Trail from coverage in its current condition; that decision can be revisited if improvements are made.
The City’s original approach was to explore “light-touch,” short-term repair options that would not result in significant soil disturbance while also exploring potential pedestrian access improvements on Edwards Street. The City developed various long, mid, and short-term repair options in consultation with Coastal Commission staff and requested a meeting with the Tsurai Management Team (TMT) to discuss them.
However, there were several delays in scheduling a meeting.
Then, after meeting with members of TAS and consulting with Coastal Commission staff high up the chain of command in the agency, it appears that Coastal Commission staff would now support permanent closure of the failed section of the Van Wycke Trail in favor of pedestrian improvements on Edwards in order to protect cultural resources.
The City was finally able to schedule a TMT meeting on February 29, 2024. It was a mostly productive discussion. There was a general consensus that abandoning the existing trail alignment is the best course of action.
However, the City is currently working with the landowners upslope of the failed section of trail and other stakeholders to try to reach an agreement for moving the trail upslope. It is likely that the end result, if approved, will involve minimal improvements in order to avoid soil disturbance. In addition, visitors will be directed to Edwards Street in order to minimize the amount of foot traffic on the Van Wycke Trail due to its sensitive location. At the same time, the City is also working on developing both short and long-term improvements on Edwards. That may include additional markings and
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) slight lane reconfigurations to make the existing shoulder walkway on the south side safer for pedestrians. In the long-term, a sidewalk along the north side of Edwards appears to be the best option.
The City’s temporary closure of the Van Wycke Trail expired on March 6, 2024. As noted above, the trail cannot be reopened in its present state. Although some people still use the closed trail, the conditions continue to deteriorate with foot traffic likely exacerbating erosion. If the trail is not kept closed, the City will have a significant liability risk should someone hurt themselves traversing the trail. While state law grants some immunity for entities maintaining trails, that doesn’t cover failed improvements such as the failed retaining wall on Van Wycke. It is also expensive to defend in court regardless.
ZONING ORDINANCE / GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
The proposed project is located within a portion of the Van Wycke Street right-of-way, and therefore has no zoning associated with the property. The land immediately north of the project is zoned Urban Residential (UR) and the land immediately south is zoned Open Space (OS).
The City’s zoning ordinance does not include required findings for projects that require a CDP but no other type of planning approval such as Design Review. Therefore, overall consistency with the City’s LCP and Coastal Act have been considered.
The Van Wycke Street Trail was an important and heavily used part of the City’s trail system laid out in the 1978 General Plan and is shown on the Circulation Map (Plate 4).
Policy 64 of the Trinidad General Plan requires that the trail system be marked and maintained for use by the public. This project is consistent with that requirement, because the closure is only temporary while the City investigates options to provide alternative access.
Policy 5 of the Trinidad General Plan states that: “Where access trails must traverse steep slopes, they should be located away from unstable areas and improvements should be provided to minimize erosion and slope failures. Existing trails which are creating these problems should either be improved or closed.” The project is consistent with this policy.
In terms of the Coastal Act, the primary standard of review for this project is whether it is consistent with the public access policies of the Coastal Act (Chapter 3).
One of the primary purposes of the Coastal Act is to “Maximize public access to and along the coast and maximize public recreational opportunities in the coastal zone consistent with sound resources conservation principals and constitutionally protected rights of private property owners.” (§ 30001.5), which also carries out a similar principal found within the CA
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) Constitution. Section 30210 states: “In carrying out the requirement of Section 4 of Article X of the California Constitution, maximum access, which shall be conspicuously posted, and recreational opportunities shall be provided for all the people consistent with public safety needs and the need to protect public rights, rights of private property owners, and natural resource areas from overuse.” The project is consistent with these sections, because the trail currently poses a risk to public safety and is subject to further erosion and instability.
Only the section posing the hazard is being closed, and alternative access exists nearby on Edwards Street.
Consistent with § 30211, this temporary closure will not interfere with the public’s right to access the sea, because alternative access around the closure will be maintained along Edwards Street between upper Van Wycke and Galindo Streets. From there, Galindo Street can be used to rejoin Van Wycke Street. Although Edwards Street does not have sidewalks, parking on the south side was removed and striping for a pedestrian walkway was added around 2003. People have commented that they feel less safe on this route, and that it does not provide the same coastal views as Van Wycke, but the City does not have a record of any car/pedestrian incidents that have occurred, and the Edwards Street route poses less risk than the failing Van Wycke Trail. Coastal access and viewsheds are still provided on Edwards Street. In addition, the minimum length of trail has been closed, so pedestrian access, and the coastal views, are still available on either side of the closure.
Section 30214(a) allows that: “The public access policies of this article shall be implemented in a manner that takes into account the need to regulate the time, place, and manner of public access depending on the facts and circumstances in each case including, but not limited to, the following: (1) Topographic and geologic site characteristics…” This temporary closure is necessary due to the unsafe conditions caused by landslide activity that has compromised the integrity of the trail.
A condition has been included as part of the project that the approval is only for a sixmonth period. The Planning Commission may extend that time limit found necessary and if progress can be shown in advancing repair or access alternatives.
Although the temporary closure will affect public access during the closure, it is necessary to protect public safety. In addition, due to the unmaintained condition of the trail, foot traffic could exacerbate erosion, vegetation disturbance, and potential disturbance of cultural resources in that area. In addition, pedestrians are trespassing on private property above the trail to bypass the sunken area. Therefore, the closure is necessary to protect public safety, the environment, and the rights of adjacent property owners, and the project can be found to be consistent with the City’s certified LCP and other applicable regulations and the public access policies of the Coastal Act.
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way) SLOPE STABILITY:
The project is located outside of the Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone. But the property where the proposed project is located is within an area designated as unstable and questionably stable based on Plate 3 of the Trinidad General Plan. In addition, the closure is located on an active landslide. Several geologic investigations have been completed in order to inform appropriate repair and stabilization options. The City is actively working towards finding suitable access alternative(s). The closure will not further impact stability.
SEWAGE DISPOSAL:
The project will not generate wastewater.
LANDSCAPING AND FENCING:
This project does not involve any new landscaping or fencing.
DESIGN REVIEW / VIEW PROTECTION FINDINGS:
Public safety and directional signage, such as what has been placed on t-posts at the trail closure to inform users, are exempt from Design Review per §17.56.160.A.5, exempting public safety and directional signage less than 2 sq. ft. in area. No other structures are proposed. No design review findings are required.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Based on the above analysis, the project was found to be consistent with the City’s Zoning Ordinance, General Plan, Coastal Act, and other applicable policies and regulations. Therefore, the necessary findings for granting approval of the project were be made. The Planning Commission agreed with staff’s analysis and approved the project with the following motion:
Based on application materials and information included in this Staff Report, and based on public testimony, I find that the project is consistent with the City’s certified LCP, the Coastal Act, and other applicable regulations, and I move to adopt the information and findings in this staff report and approve the project as described in this staff report, and as conditioned therein with the addition of Condition 2. In addition, the Planning Commission strongly recommends that the City Council make this a high priority and work with all stakeholders, including the public, to find a solution.
Trinidad Planning Commission Trinidad 2024-01 – CDP: SRPT APPROVED – March 20, 2024 APN: NA (Van Wycke Street right-of-way)
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1. Because the approval is for a temporary trail closures, the CDP shall expire after six months of going into effect, unless an extension is granted by the Planning Commission based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the Planning Commission finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.
2. City staff will provide monthly updates as an agendized item at both the Planning Commission and City Council meetings.
ATTACHMENTS
• Map of closure area (1 page)
• Letter from TAS (2 pages)
7/10/2020 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/@41.0578599,-124.1461508,256m/data=!3m1!1e3?hl=en&authuser=0 1/2 Imagery ©2020 Maxar Technologies, USDA Farm Service Agency, Map data ©2020 100 ft
Tsurai Ancestral Society
P.O. Box 62
Trinidad, Ca. 95570
03/12/2024
Trinidad Planning Commission
409 Trinity Street
Trinidad, CA 95570
CC: City Planner, City Manager
RE: Van Wycke Trail
Dear Commissioners,
The Tsurai Ancestral Society has oppose the reopening of the Van Wycke Trail for many years due to concerns of continued, unmitigated erosion along the coastal bluffs, as well as concerns of ground disturbing activities in this sensitive Tribal area in and around the Van Wycke Trail.
During outreach with the community and City Staff, the Tsurai have listened and considered concerns and thoughts from all who have taken the time to speak with us. We appreciate the desires of locals who enjoy this walking trail, and want to provide a safe, low maintenance, ADA accessible option for all to enjoy. Therefore, the Tsurai Ancestral Society recommends the City designate the North side of Edwards Street, as the main “trail” for public use and install a sidewalks to allow for safe passage.
Currently, the Tsurai Ancestral Society is considering the option of a secondary trail at Van Wycke that would be designated as low recreational use and no more than a mere footpath up slope from the current location. However, the Ancestral Society has not made a formal decision and will continue to work with landowners and the City to discuss this option.
Sincerely,
Sarah Lindgren-Akana
Tsurai Ancestral Society Secretary
Excerpt from the DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes of September 18, 2024
2. Trinidad 2024-01E: Extension of the temporary closure of the Van Wycke Trail for an additional six months to allow the City to continue to pursue repair and/or alternative access options and for the City Council to engage in consultation with the Yurok Tribe and Tsurai Ancestral Society regarding impacts of the trail to cultural resources.
Staff Report
City Planner Parker provided a brief history of the closure and efforts to repair it. She reported that the temporary closure of the trail is expiring on October 22. The approval of the closure in March 2024 included a condition that allows the closure to be extended “based on the need for more time to obtain funding and/or further explore repair and access alternatives if the Planning Commission finds that substantial progress has been made in the interim time period.” Staff is recommending a six-month extension of the closure to allow time for the City Council to consult with Yurok Tribe and Tsurai Ancestral Society, who have requested that the trail remain closed.
Parker reminded the Commission that the City’s insurance provider has excluded the VWT from coverage.
Commissioner Comments and Questions
Commissioner Cole is concerned that the trail is remaining closed for the wrong reasons such as Coastal Commission staff opinions or threats of litigation. He clarifies that the primary reason for the closure is due to insurance reasons as opposed to cultural resources. He suggests that the City be directed to maintain the area (e.g. weed-whacking) to the extent practicable.
Commissioner Slay clarifies the permit and appeal process. He is worried about the appearance of nefarious, back-door deals, because the Planning Commission has not been a part of the staff meetings that are occurring.
Commissioner Johnson is inclined to put this in the hands of the City Council like with the ALMT so they can hear directly from the public. He points out that the Council needs to follow through with their consultations. He is concerned about the public sentiment. However, he does recognize the complexities and that resolving them takes time.
There was a discussion about the consultation process and progress. It was pointed out that the Rancheria requested consultation on the ALMT almost six weeks ago, but no consultation has occurred. City Manager Naffah response that Council representatives for consultation with the Rancheria were appointed on September 24, which was the next available meeting. The City has also been working on trying to schedule consultation with the Yurok and TAS. The Commission is concerned about the amount of time this is taking.
Public Comments
B. Kenny (Trinidad resident) encouraged the Commission reopen the VWT. He argued that there is no evidence that substantial progress has been made that would allow the extension. He pointed out that the VWT is not within the Tsurai Study Area and not in the jurisdiction of the Tsurai Management Team. He is concerned about the lack of evidence of impacts to cultural resources, and he does not want the trail to be used as leverage. He stated that foot traffic does not exacerbate erosion and suggested that the City complete repairs with mitigation for cultural resources.
T. Seward (legal counsel for Trinidad Rancheria) states that the Rancheria also has an interest in the VWT. He supports equal treatment between the tribal entities. He is encouraged by this discussion.
Commissioner Discussion
There was further discussion about the City Council consultation process, representatives, and schedule. There was further discussion about the permit and approval process, including what would happen if the Commission did not vote tonight. There was also discussion about changing or removing the condition of approval. City Manager Naffah expressed his support for the condition as written and extending the closure. He reiterates the progress that staff have made.
Motion (Cole/Slay) Based on application materials and information included in the staff report, and based on public testimony, I find the project is not consistent with the City certified LCP and other applicable regulations, specifically noting a lack of demonstrable progress towards repair of the trail is not consistent with Policy 64, and I move to deny the project as described in the staff report. Passed 2-1; Johnson opposed. (Hakenen and Hopkins absent.) DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM 3
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
3. Discussion/Decision Proclaiming September as Septic Smart Month.
DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM
Date: September 10, 2024
________________________________________________________________________ Item: Septic Sue Turns Two & Proclaiming September 16-20, 2024 as Septic Smart Week The City adopted Proclamation 2022-01 two years ago and has since been a continuous supporter of Septic Week, which is a spin off of the nationally recognized Septic Awareness Week sponsored by the EPA to help communities, organizations, and agencies bring attention to the importance of caring for and maintaining septic systems by organizing homeowner educational events. Septic Sue was introduced as an educational tool to help educate Trinidad residents about their septic systems. She shared a variety of mailings covering a wide range of septic related information. This coincided with the kickoff of the City’s renewed efforts to actively integrate all properties into the OWTS Management Program to ensure all systems obtain and maintain a current OWTS Operating Permit.
PROJECT STATUS: When the project began in 2022, only 27% of the developed parcels in Trinidad had a valid OWTS Operating Permit. After a year of the program, 61% of the properties had valid OWTS Operating Permits. As of October 1, 2024 (two years after the program began), 80% of the properties have a valid OWTS Operating Permit.
PROJECT SCOPE: The City initially reached out via letter to all the owners of developed parcels within City limits that did not have a valid OWTS Operating Permit to integrate them into the OWTS Management Program. City staff have been working with property owners over the last two years to get systems inspected, and complete applications submitted in order to issue a valid OWTS Permit. Thanks to the cooperation and diligence of most property owners, these efforts have resulted in us now having 80% of developed parcels having current permits in the OWTS Management Program.
During this process, a number of underperforming systems have been identified and repaired and/or replaced. This will help protect water quality and public health in the City, which is a primary purpose of the OWTS Management Program.
LESSONS LEARNED: Staff have noticed a trend in OWTS permit applications and renewals, particularly over the past year or so. A high percentage of applicants overstate the number of bedrooms and / or dwelling units that have been permitted on their property. Because of septic limitations, there are many large homes in Trinidad with a limited number of bedrooms, but multiple bonus rooms such as offices. And because property values are significantly affected by the number of bedrooms and dwellings, the OWTS limitations are being pushed.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for the City and DEH to have no records for older systems/homes, and without documentation, we can’t know for sure what was originally permitted. Often, older systems are undersized compared to current standards, These systems generally require more frequent maintenance and inspections depending on the level of use.
But this trend is also true for properties for which we have a clear permitting history and even when we have a record that the current owners were informed of those limitations. Staff have included notes as to what is legally permitted on the OWTS Operating Permits and when communicating with realtors, but thus far, staff haven’t followed up with additional enforcement to determine if there was unpermitted construction, because that can be a difficult endeavor (time consuming and costly). Most residential systems are low risk, unless the water use is very high and/or the lot is very small, and household sizes do not appear to have significantly increased.
Another trend that has been noticeable this year, and to some degree, also since COVID, is a significant increase in water use in some commercial establishments. This is concerning, particularly when these businesses are on small lots, have undersized or older systems, and/or are located close to sensitive areas. In speaking with DEH staff about this issue, they are also concerned about the issue and advised that systems should not exceed the design flow of the OWTS on a monthly basis. They also recommended that the City monitor the maintenance of grease traps, which are a part of the OWTS, but are serviced by separate entities outside of Humboldt.
NEXT STEPS: City staff are encouraged with the progress that most property owners have made toward voluntary integration into the OWTS Management Program. However, at this point, we are down to a final few properties for which we are waiting on repairs or who have not been responsive and need extra handling (the majority of which are owned by one property owner).
These are being reviewed on an individual basis through staff level discussions and communication with the property owners regarding compliance. Thus far the City has mostly been seeking compliance through informal means. However, City staff have started sending out “final notices” to those who have not been responsive. And a few more formal enforcement letters have also been sent where there are known or suspected issues. We have been successful in gaining additional compliance, and we will continue to follow up with more formal enforcement, prioritizing the systems and properties most at risk.
City staff also plan to follow up in the next few months to educate and work with business owners with at-risk commercial systems to get the systems upgraded and/or the water use down within the design flow of the OWTS. This is likely to require some effort from staff, and we will prioritize the highest risk systems.
In addition, staff will continue to implement the program through regular permit renewals.
Permits expiring in 2024 and thereafter, will be notified 60 days prior to the expiration date and renewals will be processed as normal and under the new fee schedule that took effect July 1, 2023, as authorized by the City Council.
26%-No
Permit
27%-
Current
Permit
47%-Permit
Expired
September 2022 - Permit Status
No Permit
Current Permit
Permit Expired
No Permit
20%
Current Permit
61%
Permit Expired
19%
September 2023 - Permit Status
No Permit
Current Permit
Permit Expired
No Permit
14%
Current Permit
80%
Permit Expired
6%
September 2024 - Permit Status
No Permit
Current Permit
Permit Expired
DISCUSSION AGENDA ITEM 4
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED
4. November General Election Update
October 5, 2024
7–10pm
The Location
1234 Main Street, Anytown, State ZIP
www.example.com
WHAT IS MEASURE L AND WHY IS IT ON THE BALLOT?
Measure L seeks to continue the City of Trinidad’s existing 0.75% local sales tax. Why? This tax has been used to improve and maintain the quality of services and infrastructure in our community since 2004, with a significant portion coming from tourism spending in the City.
After the COVID-19 pandemic tourism slowdown in 2020, visits overall in California increased by 52% with an additional 4.6 million tourists forecasted to visit the state in 2024. This means that Trinidad is likely to see growth in the number of visits over the coming years along with an increase in tourism dollars spent in the City.
Each time one of these visitors purchases gas, a restaurant meal, or non-food items from the grocery store or gift shop, they are contributing to the City’s budget for essential services like law enforcement, trash clean-up, animal control services, and road maintenance upon payment of the City’s .075% local sales tax.
Although the City welcomes tourists, the City also recognizes that large numbers of tourists can result in additional wear and tear on roads and trails, and increase the need for public safety services and recreational facilities maintenance.
The current 0.75% local sales tax provides approximately 22%, or approximately $200,000 of the City’s estimated $900,000 budget. The Humboldt Taxpayers League supports Measure L to generate local revenue.
A VOTE IN FAVOR OF MEASURE L ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2024 WILL CONTINUE THIS SALES TAX, PROVIDING THE CITY REVENUE TO SUPPLEMENT SERVICE DELIVERY COSTS. IF MEASURE L IS APPROVED, THE TAX WILL CONTINUE THROUGH MARCH 31, 2029.
WHAT IS MEASURE L AND WHY IS IT ON THE BALLOT?
Measure L seeks to continue the City of Trinidad’s existing 0.75% local sales tax. Why? This tax has been used to improve and maintain the quality of services and infrastructure in our community since 2004, with a significant portion coming from tourism spending in the City.
After the COVID-19 pandemic tourism slowdown in 2020, visits overall in California increased by 52% with an additional 4.6 million tourists forecasted to visit the state in 2024. This means that Trinidad is likely to see growth in the number of visits over the coming years along with an increase in tourism dollars spent in the City.
Each time one of these visitors purchases gas, a restaurant meal, or non-food items from the grocery store or gift shop, they are contributing to the City’s budget for essential services like law enforcement, trash clean-up, animal control services, and road maintenance upon payment of the City’s .075% local sales tax.
Although the City welcomes tourists, the City also recognizes that large numbers of tourists can result in additional wear and tear on roads and trails, and increase the need for public safety services and recreational facilities maintenance.
The current 0.75% local sales tax provides approximately 22%, or approximately $200,000 of the City’s estimated $900,000 budget. The Humboldt Taxpayers League supports Measure L to generate local revenue.
A VOTE IN FAVOR OF MEASURE L ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2024 WILL CONTINUE THIS SALES TAX, PROVIDING THE CITY REVENUE TO SUPPLEMENT SERVICE DELIVERY COSTS. IF MEASURE L IS APPROVED, THE TAX WILL CONTINUE THROUGH MARCH 31, 2029.
P.O. Box 390
Trinidad, CA 95570
WHAT DOES MEASURE L COST?
Measure L is not a tax on property, or a tax on prescription medication, or food purchased as groceries. Measure L is a sales tax on the purchase of taxable retail sales goods. For example, if $100 is spent on taxable goods, Measure L will generate $0.75 in City revenue. If $1,000 is spent on taxable goods, Measure L will generate $7.50 in City revenue. All proceeds from the tax are remitted to the City with no portion being retained by the State.
This message was approved for mailing by a unanimous vote of the Trinidad City Council - Mayor Cheryl Kelly, Mayor Pro-Tem Jack West, Steve Ladwig, Jack Tuttle, and Kati Breckenridge.
P.O. Box 390
Trinidad, CA 95570
WHAT DOES MEASURE L COST?
Measure L is not a tax on property, or a tax on prescription medication, or food purchased as groceries. Measure L is a sales tax on the purchase of taxable retail sales goods. For example, if $100 is spent on taxable goods, Measure L will generate $0.75 in City revenue. If $1,000 is spent on taxable goods, Measure L will generate $7.50 in City revenue. All proceeds from the tax are remitted to the City with no portion being retained by the State.
This message was approved for mailing by a unanimous vote of the Trinidad City Council - Mayor Cheryl Kelly, Mayor Pro-Tem Jack West, Steve Ladwig, Jack Tuttle, and Kati Breckenridge.
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