RECIRCULATED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VILLA SERENA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT L SA OCTOBER 2024 UPLAND, CALIFORNIA
provide up to 2,691 square feet of living area.The residential units would have a maximum height of 35 feet and would include up to four bedrooms6.
The residential architecture of the proposed development would feature a series of styles that are commonly found in Southern California, including Spanish, Italianate, and French Country,which are set to vary among the planned homes. Varying materials and color palettes as well as different floor plans would be used to accomplish elevation variations that would be required for each architectural style. Each architectural style would also have its own design standards and guidelines, as outlined in the Specific Plan, which would be followed to enhance the community's overall appeal and value.
3.3.2 Access and Circulation
Regional access to the project site is provided by Foothill Boulevard, which is 0.75 mile to the south, and Campus Avenue,which is 0.25 mile to the west (via 15th Street). State Route 210 (SR-210) is
1.13 miles north of the project site, and Interstate 10 (1-10) is 2.14 miles south of the project site.
The following section describes access and circulation changes that would result with implementation of the proposed project, including vehicular access, modifications to 15th Street, and pedestrian and bicycle access.
3.3.2.1 Vehicular Access
Vehicular access to the project site would be provided to/from 15th Street at two locations. Primary (gated) access would be through the extension of 15th Street,which would allow residential entry from Campus Avenue.This access would be installed on 0.63 acre of unimproved land located off site connecting the project to the current terminus of East 15th Street through to Campus Avenue. A second gated access at the eastern boundary of the project site that would allow residential egress and full emergency access to/from 15th Street. Figure 3.3 illustrates the project's proposed entry and circulation plan.
On-site vehicular circulation would consist of a private street (Coyote Run Drive)varying in width from approximately 26 to 38 feet. Portions of the street would include on-street parking. A 5-foot- wide sidewalk would be provided on both sides of the street.
A gate and service road located at the eastern boundary of the project site would provide access to flood control basin. Maintenance crews would access the gate and service road from the project's western entry and private internal street.
3.3.2.2 15th Street Improvements
The proposed project would include off-site improvements within the existing and currently unimproved portions of 15th Street. Located immediately adjacent to the project site,these improvements would include 40 linear feet of paved vehicular travel area with a 5-foot-wide sidewalk and an 8-foot-wide landscaped parkway on the north side of the street (see Figure 3.4). 6 As designed. Up to five bedrooms if lofts in selected plans are converted into bedrooms. \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\3.0 Project Description.docx e10/11/24» 3-11
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11 Villa Serena Specific Plan
NO SCALE Vehicular Access
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023
I:\TCI2201\G\Vehicle_Access.ai(2/15/2024) Page 835 of 3744
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•
LSA FIGURE 3.4
NO SCALE Villa Serena Specific Plan
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023 15th Street Improvements-Cross Section I:\TC12201\G\15th_St_Improvements_Xsec.ai (2/15/2024)
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RECIRCULATED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VILLA SERENA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT L SA OCTOBER 2024 UPLAND, CALIFORNIA
The proposed project would include an extension of 15th Street from the southwest corner of the project site to the current terminus of East 15th Street to Campus Avenue. This extension will allow primary project access from Campus Avenue.This gated access would provide residential access to the proposed development.This roadway extension envisions 26 feet of pavement allowing for two lanes of travel and a 5-foot-wide sidewalk and wedge curb on the south side of the new roadway.A retaining wall and curb would be installed on the north side of the roadway extension (see Figure
3.5).
3.3.2.3 Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation
The proposed project would include sidewalks for pedestrians and an internal street system that would provide bicycle access throughout the site. Connectivity would also be provided to the adjacent remaining portion of the Upland Basin and nearby pocket parks, amenity areas, and pedestrian and bicycle routes extending beyond the project site boundary via a planned on-site private pedestrian trail that would extend from the project site and 15th Street to existing off-site public trails within the flood control basin (see Figure 3.6).A public pedestrian/bicycle trail will extend from 15th Street to the existing public trails within the flood control basin. Sidewalks will be installed along the north side of 15th Street connecting to the existing sidewalks east of the proposed residential uses.
3.3.3 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
The proposed project would include 1.02 acres of private common open space.A 0.23-acre recreational area is planned with a community pool, pool house with restrooms, picnic tables, a children's play area, and barbecues and picnic areas. Five additional pocket parks totaling 0.79 acre would be located throughout the project site and would include landscaping, children's play equipment, exercise equipment, and benches. One of the pocket parks would include a private trail that would provide pedestrian and bicycle connectivity for residents to the open space area east of the project site.
One 0.15-acre public pocket park is proposed at East 15th Street and Fernando Avenue.This park would provide open play areas and bench seating.
The project's proposed recreation and park features are detailed in Figure 3.7.
3.3.4 Infrastructure Improvements
The following infrastructure improvements would serve future development included in the project:
• Water:The project site receives water service from the City of Upland Public Works Department. Water service to the site is provided via an existing, 10-inch-diameter water main that is within 15th Street. The proposed project would include construction of a network of 8-inch-diameter, on-site water mains that would be sufficient to provide for Upland's domestic and fire protection water requirements.
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EXIST. EXIST.
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LSA FIGURE 3.5
Villa Serena Specific Plan
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023 15th Street Extension -Cross Section I:\TC12201\G\15th_St_Extension_Xsec.ai (2/15/2024)
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L SA FIGURE 3.6
NO SCALE Villa Serena Specific Plan
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023 Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility I:\TCI2201\G\Ped_Bike_Mobility.ai (2/16/2024)
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0 FEATURE LEGEND:
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Villa Serena Specific Plan
NO SCALE
Recreation Features
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023
I:\TCI2201\G\VRecreation_Features.ai(2/16/2024) Page845 of 3744
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RECIRCULATED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VILLA SERENA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT L SA OCTOBER 2024 UPLAND, CALIFORNIA
• Sewer Service: Existing off-site sewer facilities available to serve the project site include an existing 8-inch-diameter sewer main that within 15th Street.The proposed project would include the construction of an on-site network of new 8-inch-diameter sewer mains and the relocation of one existing, 8-inch-diameter off-site sewer main, all of which would connect to the on-site system.
• Utilities: Southern California Edison (SCE) would provide electrical services to the project site from existing facilities in the project area. Electrical features that would service the project site will be owned and operated by SCE and will be located underground. On-site features for telephone service would be provided by Verizon with on-site features placed underground.
Natural gas from Southern California Gas Company(SoCal Gas) would be provided to the homes on site as necessary.
• Drainage:The project site generally drains from east to west as part of a local detention basin that consists of an essentially flat bottom with 3:1 side slopes.The proposed drainage would convey flows from the residential lots and streets into an on-site storm drain collection system, which would include street flow. Runoff would then be passed through an underground infiltration basin and outlet into a new 12-foot by 8-foot reinforced concrete box culvert that would outlet into a detention basin.
• Flood Control Basin Modifications:The proposed project includes modifications (e.g., relocation of existing basin infrastructure)to the existing flood control basin to accommodate the proposed residential development and maintain a fully operational flood control and retention facility on the portions of the basin directly east of the project site (see Figure 3.8).The 9.16- acre area proposed for residential development would be graded to fill this portion of the existing basin. Modifications to the flood control basin'would include:
o Extension of the flood control basin inlet, which is in the northwest corner of the existing basin, to the new eastern edge of the project site. New storm drain improvements would consist of a combination of 12-foot by 8-foot and 10-foot by 9.5-foot reinforced concrete box culverts.The improvements would extend approximately 1,900 linear feet from west to east along the southern edge of the site and outlet through a new headwall in the modified basin.The modified inlet would also pick up two existing smaller inlets tributary to the flood control basin within the site as follows:
■ An existing local inlet pipe approximately 300 feet east of the project site's eastern boundary is anticipated to be a 36-inch-diameter reinforced concrete pipe (RCP)that would be routed through the site to the new inlet.
■ An existing concrete trapezoidal channel approximately 60 feet west of the eastern edge of the project site would be picked up in an approximately 48-inch-diameter pipe and routed through the site into the new inlet round catch basin.
Deborah Linn Planning Consultant. 2024. Villa Serena Specific Plan, City of Upland, Section 2.5 and Exhibit 11.June.
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L IE1 I
q .L EXISTING CHANNE • iy f
_ .� OLF COURSE y 'z
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EX-IN ( x-��� in ��� '" _.i._. i \\� ,.�' ,d /�1N'��.,. GOLF:COURSE_\�� - �? , 1 ��: j G 90 INCH .....________---- -GOLF COURSE - - ....." :'= --�i- /r.
INLET STORM. DRAIN '—- -_ _- ---- -- _,---1-I — __ -_ EXISTING OUTLET BOX STRUCTURE PROPOSED LAND DEVELOPMENT _� MODIFIED 15TH STREET --, -'+� i1 ,,,,,,i
/FILL AREA s DETENTION BASIN � / \_ I - LHABITAT MITIGATION -....- ,. r AREA
' __: PROPOSED LAND DEVELOPMENT _ - �i _ _- - - , - FILL AREA .--YYY"` Imo, I '�—` ��o // NLET l Ok9 5 � = �. a�,' - �'1 R.C.B.�� EXISTING RESIDENTIAL
- - _-- HOMES OUTLET BOX STRUCTURE
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1a OUTLET PIPE OUTLET PIPE1 I 1 I'<I �o¢� I - 1aS'I , 1 1 al I z Ill,,,ddd I I i IW¢I ^I I i¢I I�I� 1 1
I OUTLET BOX STRUCTURq
L SA FIGURE 3.8
0 200 400 Villa Serena Specific Plan FEET Conceptual Basin Modification SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023
I:\TCI2201\G\Concept_Basin_Mod.ai(2/16/2024)
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RECIRCULATED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VILLA SERENA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT L SA OCTOBER 2024 UPLAND, CALIFORNIA
o The project would include extension'of approximately 1,800 linear feet of the basin outlet from the western edge of the project site to the eastern edge of the project site.This extension is proposed to be an 102-inch-diameter RCP to account for the design outlet, as well as the spillway flows, and includes a new outlet structure in the flood control basin.The proposed pipe would extend from the southeast corner of the project site west to the main project entry,then south into 15th Street and west along 15th Street and connecting to the existing outlet pipe. Easements would be granted to the City for all basin infrastructure proposed to be located within the project site.
o To satisfy County of San Bernardino Flood Control District (County) criteria and City Public Works Department comments,the proposed project would include an emergency spillway alternative.9 The existing flood control basin would be retrofitted to accommodate a trapezoidal emergency spillway with a crest at an elevation of 1,426.6 feet above mean sea level (amsl).The emergency spillway,with a base of 16 feet and a top width of 48.4 feet, would be installed at the end of Grove Avenue.A box weir outlet system would be designed to pass through a 200-or 500-year storm, with the emergency spillway providing discharge capacity for larger events.
The"conservation area" on the easternmost 4.29 acres of the existing basin would remain unaffected by project activities.As detailed on the precise grading plan prepared for the project, no work, access, or storage is allowed within this area. • Temporary Construction Easement and Northern Curb/Gutter:The proposed project requires a 15-foot construction easement along the northern side of the residential development area with the existing Upland Hills Country Club golf course.The 0.62 acre temporary construction easement would allow the installation of a 1-foot curb and 4-foot gutter along the northern property line. Flows collected along this curb/gutter system would be picked up/conveyed to on-site storm drain system, mimicking the existing flow pattern. Figure 3.9 details the cross- section of the curb-gutter system.
3.3.5 Project Construction
The proposed project would be constructed in five phases, consisting of site preparation,grading, building construction, paving, and architectural coating. Grading within the site would attempt to balance cut/fills for the site (16,765 cubic yards [cy] of cut and 80,926 cy of fill).The exact timing of implementation and phasing may vary based on physical constraints or timing of infrastructure improvements.
8 To potentially reduce the sizes of new pipes,the project sponsor conducted an analysis of a basin bypass design that would divert flows(either low-or high-level flows)directly to the existing outlet pipe system.The bypass design did not satisfy the requirements associated with the existing system;therefore,this design was not carried forward. 9 A box weir system with a 144-inch-diameter outlet pipe was also determined capable of handling the design discharge.While this system would not require the new open channel emergency spillway in the flood control basin, it could not be accommodated at this location.
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O.._.::,,, •... _! . ... .:.',: ': !FOWL
STING GOLF COURSE TRACT NO. 75
i 5' WIDE TEMPORAY
MASTRUCTEOR EAaE11ENT
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" 'GUTTER 0,5' nil ;
L SA FIGURE 3.9
o z.s 5 Villa Serena Specific Plan
FEET — Temporary Construction Easement
SOURCE:Project Plans,2024 and Curb-Gutter Cross Section 1:\T\TCI2201\G\Const_Easement_Xsec.ai (10/10/2024)
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RECIRCULATED DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VILLA SERENA SPECIFIC PLAN PROJECT L SA OCTOBER 2024 UPLAND, CALIFORNIA
A portion of the basin directly east of the proposed residential uses would be modified to provide appropriate flood control capacity.A new berm would be created between the flood control basin and the project site. From the top of the berm, a new slope would be graded to the bottom of the modified basin.The proposed floor of the modified basin is planned at an approximate elevation of 1,410 feet amsl. Modifications to the bottom of the remaining basin would be made from the toe of the new slope to a point approximately 900 linear feet to the east by grading the bottom of the basin in this area to an elevation of approximately 1,410 feet amsl from an existing elevation of 1,414 to 1,415 feet amsl.The excess cut material generated would be utilized as fill for the proposed new berm to be located at the western edge of the new basin as well as for fill within the project site.The remainder of the existing flood control basin would not be modified. Total earthwork for the proposed project is estimated to be approximately 46,000 cy of cut and 87,000 cy of fill, resulting in an import of approximately 41,000 cy of material.
3.4 PROJECT OBJECTIVES
As provided by the project sponsor, the objectives of the proposed project are:
• Create a distinctive community design with a well-designed entry, streetscapes, walls, and entry monument
• Provide for architectural diversity within the community with varying residential floor plans and architectural styles
• Provide for on-site recreational opportunities for residents through provision of common area open space within the community offering active and passive recreational amenities for all age groups
• Design a development plan which ensures the community is adequately served by public facilities, infrastructure, and utilities without the need for extensions or improvements to existing public facilities
• Incorporate green and sustainable design features into the development plan
3.5 REQUIRED PERMITS AND APPROVALS
3.5.1 Discretionary Actions
Implementation of the proposed project would require various approvals and permits from local, State, and federal agencies with jurisdiction over specific elements of the proposed project.The discretionary approvals by the City of Upland, which is the Lead Agency, include the following:
• EIR Certification:This Administrative Draft EIR is being prepared as a California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) compliance document for the entitlement (approval) of the Specific Plan as well as associated approvals discussed below.The EIR discusses consistency between this Specific Plan and the City's General Plan and provides mitigation measures to avoid or reduce the environmental effects resulting from implementation of the Specific Plan. \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\3.0 Project Description.docx«10/11/24» 3-33
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• General Plan Amendment(GPA-23-0002):The general plan amendment would revise the General Plan land use map to include the Villa Serena Specific Plan land use designation and remove the PU-FC land use designation.
• Zone Change (ZC-23-0002):A change of zone is required to revise the City's zoning map to include the Villa Serena Specific Plan (Specific Plan No. 18-02) Zone.The change of zone is required to change the PB-FC zoning designation to Specific Plan No. 18-02. • Specific Plan (SP-23-0002):The approval of the Specific Plan would create the Villa Serena Specific Plan. Project-related improvements and proposed land uses are discussed in this chapter of the EIR.
• Tentative Tract Map (TT-23-0001):The Tentative Tract Map includes a subdivision to establish the boundaries and dimension of streets and the proposed grading. Following map recordation, the final map would become the legal document that identifies the lots and backbone infrastructure to allow for future subdivision maps to be filed. • Development Plan Review(DPR-23-0002):The purpose of development plan review is to provide a process for the review of specific development activities on the project site, including review and approval of the site plan, architectural design, lighting and landscaping, etc.The review ensures the project will be built in accordance the Specific Plan policies and development standards, related to the identified community character, and expectations for high quality development.
3.5.2 Other City Actions
Various subsequent permits and approvals would be required to implement the proposed project.
Subsequent permit approvals would be discretionary and subject to Planning Commission review and approval, and others would be administrative and subject to review and approval by City Directors, including the Directors of Development Services, Community Services, and/or Public Works. The Planning Commission shall have final approval, conditional approval, or denial of CUPs, tentative tract maps, plot plans, and public use permits.The Planning Commission shall be responsible for recommending approval, conditional approval, or denial to the City Council regarding any General Plan Amendments and zoning ordinance or zone changes. Further, the Planning Commission shall act on appeals from decisions by the Development Services Director.
Modifications to the proposed Specific Plan may be necessary to accommodate future development projects. Changes to the adopted Specific Plan shall be classified by the Community Development Director as either a Substantial Conformance Determination or Specific Plan Amendment.
3.5.3 Other Ministerial City Actions
Ministerial permits/approvals (e.g., grading permits and building permits)would be issued by the City or other appropriate agencies to allow project site preparation, curb cuts (if necessary), connections to the utility infrastructure, dwelling units, paving, landscaping,walls and fences, and other project features subject to ministerial permits, including construction drawings for parks and trails.
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3.5.4 Probable Future Actions by Responsible Agencies Because the project also involves approvals, permits, or authorization from other agencies,these agencies are "Responsible Agencies" under CEQA. Section 15381 of the State CEQA Guidelines defines Responsible Agencies as public agencies other than the Lead Agency that will have discretionary approval power over the project or some component of the project, including mitigation.These agencies include, but are not limited to,the agencies identified in Table 3.A.
Table 3.A: Probable Future Actions by Responsible Agencies Responsible Agency Action
State Water Resources Control Applicant/Developer must submit Permit Registration Documents,including a Board(SWRCB) Notice of Intent,to comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System(NPDES)Permit No.CAS618036(Order No.R8-2010-0036).
California Department of Fish and Jurisdictional Delineation,Streambed alteration agreement.
Wildlife(CDFW)
Regional Water Quality Control Section 401 Water Quality Certification and Issuance of Waste Discharge Board(RWQCB) Requirements(WDRs).
Southern California Edison(SCE) Permits to Underground Utilities Source:Compiled by LSA(2023).
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4.0 SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES
This chapter contains an analysis of each potentially significant environmental impact that has been identified for the proposed Villa Serena Specific Plan Project (project).The following pages in this chapter: (a) identify how a determination of significance is made and the environmental issues that are addressed, (b) describe the context for the evaluation of cumulative effects, (c) list the format of the topical issue sections, and (d) provide an evaluation of each potentially significant impact in Sections 4.1 through 4.8.
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) defines a significant effect as a substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in the environment.'The "environment" means the physical conditions which exist in the area, including land, air, water, minerals,flora,fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance. Each impact evaluation in this chapter is prefaced by significance criteria, which are the thresholds for determining whether an impact is significant.
These significance criteria are based on the State CEQA Guidelines and applicable City of Upland (City) policies. In determining whether a project's impacts are significant, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) ordinarily compares the environmental conditions with the proposed project with existing environmental conditions, which are referred to as the "baseline"for the impact analysis.
This EIR compares the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project with the baseline environmental conditions in existence at the time that the Notice of Preparation was published on February 7, 2022.
ISSUES ADDRESSED IN THE DRAFT EIR
Sections 4.1 through 4.8 of this chapter describe the environmental setting of the project as evaluated in the EIR and the impacts that are expected to result from implementation of the proposed project. Mitigation measures are proposed to reduce potential impacts, where appropriate.The following environmental issues are addressed in this chapter:
• 4.1 Aesthetics
• 4.2 Air Quality
• 4.3 Biological Resources
• 4.4 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• 4.5 Hydrology and Water Quality
• 4.6 Noise
• 4.7 Transportation
• 4.8 Tribal Cultural Resources
' Public Resources Code§21068.
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Preliminary analysis provided in the Initial Study (Appendix A-5) determined that development of the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to the following environmental topics:
agriculture and forestry resources, cultural resources, energy,geology and soils, hazards and hazardous materials, land use and planning, mineral resources, population and housing, recreation, tribal cultural resources, utilities and service systems, and wildfire. Consequently, these issues with the exception of tribal cultural resources, are not examined in this chapter of the EIR and are instead briefly addressed in Chapter 5.0, Other CEQA Considerations. Subsequent to the completion of the Initial Study,the City initiated consultation with tribal representatives pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 and Senate Bill 18. Section 4.8 of this chapter includes discussion of the consultation efforts.
CUMULATIVE ANALYSIS CONTEXT
CEQA defines cumulative as "two or more individual effects which, when considered together, are considerable, or which can compound to increase other environmental impacts." Section 15130 of the State CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR evaluate potential environmental impacts when the project's incremental effect is cumulatively considerable. "Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of an individual project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects,the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.These impacts can result from a combination of the proposed project together with other projects causing related impacts.The cumulative impact from several projects is the change in the environment that results from the incremental impact of the project when added to other closely related past, present, and reasonably foreseeable probable future projects.
The methodology used for assessing cumulative impacts typically varies depending on the specific topic being analyzed. CEQA requires that cumulative impacts be discussed using either a list of past, present, and probable future projects producing related or cumulative impacts, or a summary of projections contained in an adopted local, regional, or statewide plan, or related planning document that describes or evaluates conditions contributing to the cumulative effect.This project-specific analysis employs both the list-based and projection-based approaches, depending on which approach best suits the resource topic being analyzed.
The cumulative land use assumptions include projections from the currently adopted Southern California Association of Governments 2020 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy with refinements to reflect development projects that are under construction, approved, and pending in Upland.
The cumulative context for land use development project effects is typically localized within the immediate vicinity of the project site or at the neighborhood level. Cumulative development in the project vicinity includes the projects listed in Table 4.A. and detailed in Figure 4.1.These projects are either projects for which the City has a project application on file or projects that have been entitled but were not yet operational at the time that the EIR analysis began (i.e., February 2022).
Refer to the appropriate discussion in each topical section for further discussion of the cumulative assumptions relevant to each issue topic.
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L SA LEGEND FIGURE 4.01
-Project Site
NO SCALE Villa Serena Specific Plan
SOURCE:Villa Serena Specific Plan,July 2023 Cumulative Projects I:\TC12201\G\Cumulative_Projects.ai (2/16/2024)
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Table 4.A: Cumulative Projects
Project/Location Project Description Project Status Colony Condos Construction of a 60-unit multifamily mid-rise building Approved Colonies Campus Center Construction of a 4,565 sf gas station and 8,825 sf Operational commercial building
Planet Car Wash Construction of a 2,972 sf car wash Operational Colonies Self Storage Construction of a 164,570 sf self-storage building Under construction Mesa Court Apartments Construction of a 60-unit apartment complex Approved Starbucks(Upland Village Construction of an 2,049 sf coffee shop Approved Center)
Amazon Fresh at Upland Construction of an approximately 35,000 sf grocery store Constructed but not open Village Center
Foothill Self Storage Construction of approximately 5,900 sf of self-storage and Approved retail space
Rally's Hamburgers Construction of an approximately 1,300 sf fast food Operational restaurant
Rose Glen Specific Plan Construction of 64 single-family detached residential units Under construction Source:Compiled by LSA(2023).
sf=square feet
FORMAT OF ISSUE SECTIONS
The environmental topical section is composed of two primary parts: (1) Setting, and (2) Impacts and Mitigation Measures.The following provides an overview of the general organization and the information provided in the two parts:
• Setting:The Setting subsection for an environmental topic generally provides a description of the applicable physical setting (e.g., existing land uses, existing traffic conditions)for the project site and its surroundings in Upland. It also provides an overview of regulatory considerations that are applicable to each specific environmental topic. • Impacts and Mitigation Measures:The Impacts and Mitigation Measures subsection for an environmental topic presents a discussion of the potential impacts that could result from implementation of the proposed project.This subsection begins with the significance criteria, which are the thresholds used to determine whether an impact is potentially significant.The latter part of this subsection presents the potential impacts from the proposed project and mitigation measures, if necessary.The potential impacts of the proposed project are organized into separate categories based on the criteria listed in each topical section. Cumulative impacts are also addressed.
Impacts are numbered and shown in bold type, and the corresponding mitigation measures are numbered and indented. Impacts and mitigation measures are numbered consecutively and begin with an acronym or abbreviated reference to the impact section (e.g.,TRA-1).The following symbol is used for individual topics:
• AES for Aesthetics
• AIR for Air Quality
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• BIO for Biological Resources
• GHG for Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• HYD for Hydrology and Water Quality
• NOI for Noise
• TCR for Tribal Cultural Resources
• TRA for Transportation
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4.1 AESTHETICS
This section assesses the effects of the proposed project on visual resources within and in the vicinity of the project site.The proposed project's consistency with the Upland General Plan (General Plan) policies relevant to aesthetics, as well as compliance with relevant requirements and standards set forth in the Upland Zoning Code are also discussed.This analysis also considers the visual quality of the project site and its surroundings in addition to public views of the project site.
Mitigation measures to reduce or avoid potentially significant impacts are identified where appropriate.
4.1.1 Setting
This section describes the existing visual character of the project site,the areas immediately surrounding the project site, and the area in the general vicinity of the project site.
4.1.1.1 Local Context
The project site encompasses the existing 15th Street Flood Control Basin and the extension of 15th Street to Campus Avenue, near the eastern boundary of Upland, between State Route (SR-) 210 to the north and Foothill Boulevard to the south. Within the flood control basin, 9.16 acres would be developed with 65 single-family residential uses. Directly east of this residential development, basin modifications would take place on 6.85 acres.The easternmost 4.29 acres of the basin would be retained in its current condition1.The project site is generally surrounded by single-family residential buildings that are one-to two-stories in height as well as recreational uses including a fairway of the Upland Hills Country Club golf course2. Circulation in the surrounded area is provided by one-to two-lane roadways. The roadways serving the project vicinity generally provide on-street parking, including both parallel on-street parking and guest parking spaces within residential subdivisions.
The nearest access points to and from SR-210 are the on-and off-ramps located along North Campus Avenue, approximately 2 miles north of the project site. Local roadways surrounding and providing public views of the project site include East 15th Street, Fernando Avenue, Diego Way, Carlos Way, North 13th Avenue, and Alta Avenue.
4.1.1.2 Existing Visual Character of the Project Site "Visual character" is an impartial description of the defining physical features, landscape patterns, and distinctive physical qualities within a landscape. Visual character is informed by the composition of land,vegetation, water, and structures and their relationship to one another and their relative predominance, and by prominent elements of form, line, color, and texture that combine to define the composition of views.Visual character- defining resources and features within a landscape— may derive from notable landforms, vegetation, land uses, building design and façade treatments, 1 This 4.29-acre portion of the basin is referred to"conservation area' or"mitigation area" in Section 4.3 (Biological Resources).
2 Prior to 2000,the total size of the 15th Street Basin was approximately 32 acres. Under the oversight of the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the western 11.2 acres of the basin were filled in 1999/2000.Subsequently,a 54-unit,single-family residential gated community,consisting of two-story homes,was developed on the filled site.This community is directly west of the proposed project site. \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.1 Aesthetics.docx«10/11/24» 4.1-1
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transportation facilities, overhead utility structures and lighting, historic structures or districts, or panoramic open space.
The basin is on the northeast corner of the intersection of Fernando Avenue and East 15th Street.
The basin, which is relatively flat, contains a raised earthen berm with vegetation, a basin to convey storm water flows, and earthen utility roads. Vegetation on the site consists of riparian and wetland vegetation such as cattail marshes, upland vegetation such as California buckwheat scrub, and other land cover types.
4.1.1.3 Visual Character of the Surrounding Area
The city is at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains to the north and may be characterized as suburban in nature,within inland Southern California (the Inland Empire), east of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.The city terrain is flat but slopes gradually upward to the north.The highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, Mount San Antonio (locally known as Mount Baldy), reaches a height of 10,064 feet approximately 9.5 miles north of Upland.The project area is characterized by relatively dense residential interspersed with nearby recreational and open space uses.
There are no officially designated or eligible State scenic highways within or adjacent to the project site. However,the City's Scenic Highways Element identifies Euclid Avenue (0.8 mile west of the project site) and Foothill Boulevard (0.76 mile south of site) as routes of scenic and historic interest that warrant consideration as a scenic highway.The visual character of the surrounding area is further described below.
• North of the Project Site:The project site is bordered to the north by a fairway associated with the Upland Hills Country Club. Mature trees and other vegetation provide screening between the project site and the golf course. Beyond the fairway are recreational uses associated with the club and one-and two-story single-family residential homes situated along Upland Hills Drive that were constructed in the early 1980s., Single-story commercial uses and additional one-and two-story single-family residential uses are farther north of East 16th Street. • East of the Project Site:The project site is bordered to the east one-to two-story single-family residential uses,the Red Hill Country Club golf course, and Cucamonga Creek. Cucamonga Creek is a channelized drainage, consisting of a fenced concrete-lined channel. A paved multi-use trail is also located along the western edge Cucamonga Creek. One-to two-story single-family residential and commercial uses are located east of the channel. • South of the Project Site:The project site is bordered to the south by the east-west segment of East 15th Street. Land uses south of 15th Street generally consist of one-to two-story single- family neighborhoods. Farther south of the project site are additional single family residential uses,with institutional uses such as the Champions at Foothill Knolls STEAM Academy of Innovation, and commercial uses closer to East Foothill Boulevard. Nearly every building between the project site and East Foothill Boulevard is either one or two stories in height. • West of the Project Site:The project site is bordered to the west by two-story residential uses along Sawtooth Drive as well as the SCE Padua Substation, which includes electrical generation
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and distribution equipment that stand approximately 30 to 40 feet in height. The Drydock Depot, an RV and boat storage yard with one-story buildings, is also located west of the project site.
4.1.1.4 Views from the Project Site
Views from within the project site to surrounding areas are largely limited due to existing topography and obstructed due to existing off-site development and mature trees. Available views are generally limited to the immediate surroundings and surrounding hillsides. • Views to the North:Views to the north are restricted by the existing berm on the project site, mature trees on the northern border of the project site, and single-family residential uses along Upland Hills Drive South. These buildings vary in design, but primarily consist of stucco, shingles, and glass windows. Surrounding hillsides, including Mt. Baldy, are visible to the north, but are largely obstructed by the existing trees.
• Views to the East:Views to the east from the project site generally consist of the remainder of the 15th Street Flood Control Basin,which consists of vegetation including shrubs, grasses, and mature trees along the northern boundary of the project site. Further views are restricted by these mature trees as well as existing single-family residences along East 15th Street. Distant views of hillsides are available to the east; however these are also largely obstructed by existing development and mature trees.
• Views to the South:Views to the south are restricted by single-family residential uses and mature trees to the south.These buildings vary in design but generally consist of stucco and wood siding. Long-range views of distant hillsides are partially available from the site as the roadways that travel in a north-south direction away from the site (such as North 13th Avenue or Alta Avenue) gently slope downwards as they move south. However,these views are largely obstructed by the existing development.
• Views to the West: Views to the west are restricted by single-family residential uses immediately adjacent to the project site.These buildings vary in design but primarily consist of stucco and wood siding. Long-range views are generally not available due to this development.
4.1.1.5 Views of the Project Site
Similar to views from the project site described above,views of the project site from areas that do not immediately border the site are generally limited due to the developed nature of areas immediately surrounding the project site, existing mature trees, and the topography. • Views from the North:Views of the project site from the Upland Hills Country Club golf course looking south are of the current basin, scrub habitat and other vegetation. Surrounding one-and two-story single-family residential uses are visible as well, but views are restricted by the mature trees along the northern border of the project site and the existing berm. Distant hillsides are also partially visible to the south.There are no public views (i.e., such as a public street or sidewalk) of the project site from the north.
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• Views from the East:Views of the project site from the east are of the existing berm,fence, and vegetation on the site along the southern boundary of the site. No public views of the eastern boundary of the site are available due to intervening single-family residential uses and mature vegetation. Views beyond the site to the east are also largely obstructed by existing vegetation and development.
• Views from the South:Views of the project site from the south available from East 15th Street, North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, and Alta Avenue, include the existing berm,fence, and vegetation.The mature trees along the northern boundary of the project site are visible from these roadways.The existing residential uses north of the project site are also partially visible, but are obscured by the berm on the project site and the mature trees. In addition, North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, and Alta Avenue gently slope downhill as they move away from the project site to the south,further reducing the visibility of the residential uses to the north.
Background views of the San Gabriel Mountains, including Mt. Baldy, are also available from each of these roadways. However, these views north to the mountains are partially obscured by the mature trees and existing single-family residential uses.Views from North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, and Alta Avenue are further obscured by vegetation and single-family residential uses on each of these streets.
• Views from the West:Views of the project site from the western terminus of East 15th Street, looking east towards the project site, are of the existing berm, fence, and vegetation. No other public views of the western border of the project site are available due to existing development, including single-family residential uses and the SCE Padua Substation. Views beyond the site of distant hillsides are generally available but are partially obstructed due to mature trees.
4.1.1.6 Light and Glare
There are two types of artificial, or man-made, light sources within the project area: (1) direct sources such as illuminated signage, street light poles, and vehicle headlights; and (2) indirect sources of reflected light such as reflective or light-colored surfaces.The effect produced by direct and indirect light sources that is perceived as excessive brightness is commonly referred to as "glare".
Direct view of light sources, such as the surrounding homes and streetlights, and light from automobile headlights represent sources of nighttime glare adjacent to the project site.The flood basin when filled with water is anticipated to be a source of daytime glare from the sun's reflection; however, current climate conditions and drought has kept the basin primarily dry except for infrequent storm events.
4.1.1.7 Regulatory Framework
The following discusses applicable standards and policies related to visual resources, including those from the California State Scenic Highway Program, the Upland General Plan, and Upland Municipal Code.
State Regulations. State regulations applicable to the proposed project include the California State Scenic Highway Program, as described below. California State Scenic Highway Program. California's
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Scenic Highway Program was created by the Legislature in 1963 to preserve and protect scenic highway corridors from change that would diminish the aesthetic value of lands adjacent to highways. State laws governing the Scenic Highway Program are found in the Streets and Highways Code, Section 260 et seq. A highway may be designated as "scenic" based on the expanse of the natural landscape that can be seen by travelers,the scenic quality of that landscape, and the extent to which development intrudes upon the traveler's enjoyment of the view. A Scenic Corridor is described as the land generally adjacent to and visible from such a highway and is usually limited by topography and/or jurisdictional boundaries. In addition to State Highways, Marin County roads are also eligible for scenic designation. As noted above, no State-designated scenic highways are located within view of the project site.The cities of Upland, Ontario, and Chino requested that Euclid Avenue be added to the State Scenic highways eligibility list in 1975; however,the request was denied.
Local Regulations.The proposed project would be required to comply with local regulations, including the General Plan and the Municipal Code.
City of Upland General Plan. The following City of Upland General Plan goals and policies are relevant to the aesthetic impacts of the proposed project:
• Goal LU-1:A viable community with a mix of land uses and building types that offer a wide range of choices to live, work, shop and participate in civic, cultural, open space, and recreational opportunities.
o Policy LU-1.2: Permitted Densities and Intensities. Ensure existing and future zoning designations correspond to the permitted density and intensity ranges as listed in Table LU-1 of the Land Use Element.
• Goal LU-6:A community that encourages complementary development and maintenance of existing development.
o Policy LU-6.1: Quality Development. Ensure that development is attractive and promotes harmony in the visual relationships and transitions between newer and older buildings.
o Policy LU-6.2: Compatibility of Uses. Control the location, concentration and operations of land uses that have potential impacts on surrounding development through effective design principles, adequate buffering, and enforcement of regulatory documents. • Goal CC-1:A community with a small town character and distinct sense of place that embraces complementary growth.
o Policy CC-1.1:Small Town Scale.Support the maintenance and expansion of Upland's existing character by requiring preservation of historic features, buildings, and landscaping while encouraging new development to complement the character, scale, and heritage of development in the community.
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o Policy CC-1.3: Place Making. Ensure that existing and proposed buildings, structures, infrastructure, landscaping, lighting, and signage contribute to the image of the City as a place of high quality and positive value.
o Policy CC-1.4: Contextual Design Themes. Encourage new development to incorporate similar design themes to those existing within the project area to ensure buildings, when seen together, create recognizable districts and corridors. o Policy CC-1.6:View Protection. Direct private development to enhance public view corridors of the San Gabriel Mountains, where feasible.These views are an integral part of the City's geographic space and provide a unique sense of place for Upland as a foothill community.
• Goal CC-3: Districts that achieve cohesive design to reinforce a unique and vibrant sense of place in the community.
o Policy CC-3.5:Cohesive Design. Encourage individual development projects to be designed as part of a larger district, in which they enhance multi-modal and visual connectivity and compatibility with the surrounding area. • Goal CC-5: Sites and buildings of a high standard of design quality,visual interest, livability and sustainability.
o Policy CC-5.1 Site Design Principles. Require new development projects to adhere to the basic principles of high-quality site design as set forth below, elsewhere in the General Plan, zoning and development standards, and any additional design guidelines adopted by the City. Basic principles include:
a. Buffers. Encourage buffers between uses that are incompatible in design and/or operations, including, but not limited to, areas in the southwest and southeast portions of the City where industrial and residential land uses intermix. b. Edges. Ensure that buildings,trees or other architectural features provide edges and definition to the street to enhance the vitality and improve the feeling of safety and security in urbanized areas, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. c. Building Siting. Encourage new developments to bring buildings closer to the street as appropriate to create a more intimate and comfortable pedestrian environment. d. Varied Setbacks. Encourage varying setbacks, according to the existing character or context of the neighborhood,to provide visual interest, opportunities for transitional landscaping, and varying shadow patterns.
e. Green Space. Provide adequate green space by ensuring new development and redevelopment includes appropriate green spaces, such as parkways, community
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squares, parks, rooftop gardens, and plazas that complement the architecture of the development.
f. Landscaping. Promote high-quality landscape design and maintenance to soften buildings, parking lots, and hardscape with specific emphasis on a "California- friendly" plant palette.
g. Pedestrian Elements. Promote the use of elements such as special paving materials, landscaping, pedestrian-scaled lighting and seating along pedestrian paths and walkways to encourage pedestrian use.
h. Walls and Fencing. Walls and fencing should be limited to providing privacy in side and rear yards and providing screening of non-residential utility areas to preserve the sense of a safe and inviting community. Where they are allowed, walls and fencing should be built of high-quality materials that match and complement the architectural style of buildings on the property and provide visual relief through the use of a mixture of materials, landscaping, walkways and greenbelts. Additional landscape areas between sound walls, garden walls, and fencing and rights-of-way should be provided to mitigate the height and visual barrier of walls per the Zoning Code.
o Policy CC-5.2: Building Design Principles. Require new development projects to adhere to the basic principles of high-quality building design as set forth below, elsewhere in the General Plan, and in any additional design guidelines adopted by the City. Basic principles include:
a. High-Quality Development. Require new buildings to be of high architectural design and construction quality, including a high degree of articulation for visual interest, and attention to detail in both design and construction within the context of a building's location.
b. Sustainable Development. Require building owners and developers to integrate green initiatives into their buildings, such as recycled materials, California friendly landscaping, energy efficient devices and water conservation technologies. c. Architectural Style for Non-Historic Areas. Require new developments to adhere to the predominant architectural style of buildings in the vicinity, where one is apparent, while encouraging variation in design elements; where there is not a strong architectural style, new styles may be appropriate. d. New Buildings Adjacent to Historic Buildings. Require the design of new buildings adjacent to historic buildings to be compatible with the form and massing of the historic structure, including height, setback, massing, roof form, and architectural style.
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e. Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Residential Compatibility. Require multi-family housing and mixed-use development to be in scale with or transition in scale from adjoining or adjacent single-family areas through the use of similar setbacks, complementary building arrangements and architecture, gradual changes to building heights, buffer yards and the avoidance of overwhelming building scale and visual obstructions. f. Single-Family Residential Compatibility. Require that new single-family housing in established neighborhoods be designed to be compatible in scale with other homes in the immediate neighborhood.
g. Single-Family Residential Additions. Require that additions to existing single-family housing be developed in the same style.
h. Building Articulation. Ensure that the exterior on all sides of a building are varied and articulated to provide visual interest to its surroundings. i. Variety of Size and Scale. Encourage new developments to contain a variety of lot and dwelling sizes and scales. Some lots may be designed to accommodate one- story houses, which generally require greater lot width to avoid front elevations of houses that are dominated by garages.
j. Upper Story Setbacks. Encourage multiple-story buildings to step the building back from the street edge at upper levels to allow sunlight into the street and create visual interest.
k. Building Entrances. Encourage building entrances to be oriented toward a public street, serve as primary pedestrian entrances to a business, and include architectural features that give them prominence.
I. Garage Design. Ensure garages for new single-family houses, duplexes, and townhouses are visually subordinate in importance to the house itself, especially the entry.This can be achieved by locating garages toward the back of properties, limiting the width of the garage to two car spaces, building garages as separate structures from the house, requiring garages to be set back from the front facade of the house, and encouraging the orientation of garage doors at 90 degrees to the street.
m. Secondary Units. Require secondary units to be visually subordinate to the primary residence and located behind single-family homes and above garages pursuant to the standards of the Zoning Code.
• Goal OSC-1: Upland's natural resources such as open space, wildlife and vegetation, are protected and enjoyed as limited and valuable resources and integral parts of a sustainable environment.
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o Policy OSC-1.7: Dark Sky Protection. Promote shielded, dark-sky friendly lighting for Upland's outdoor lighting needs in order to reduce light pollution and glare; increase energy efficiency; protect wildlife; and promote better health.
City of Upland Municipal Code. The intent and purpose of the Upland Zoning Ordinance, or Title 17 in the City's Municipal Code, are to promote and protect "the public health, safety, and welfare of the people of the city, and to provide for the social, physical, and economic advantages resulting from comprehensive and orderly planned use of land resources."Title 17 provisions also assist with the implementation of the City's General Plan and other specific plans.
Chapter 17.14: Outdoor Lighting.This chapter establishes minimum requirements for outdoor lighting in order to reduce light trespass and glare, and to protect the health, property, and the well-being of residents and visitors. New lighting would be required to comply with the standards, subject to review by the community development department.
Further requirements include compliance with Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards for outdoor lighting. If a conflict between the requirements of this chapter and the State of California Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards arises,that which produces the least glare shall apply.
4.1.2 Impacts and Mitigation Measures
This section provides an assessment of the potential impacts related to aesthetics that could result from implementation of the proposed project.The section begins with the criteria of significance, which establish the thresholds for determining whether an impact is significant.The latter part of this section presents potential impacts associated with implementation of the proposed project and identifies applicable mitigation measures, as appropriate.
4.1.2.1 Significance Criteria
Appendix G, Initial Study Checklist, of the CEQA Guidelines includes checklist questions relating to aesthetics.The proposed project would potentially create a significant aesthetic impact if it would:
Threshold AES-1: Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista; Threshold AES-2: Substantially damage scenic resources, including but not limited to,trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a State scenic highway; Threshold AES-3: Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points). If the project is in an urbanized area, it would conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality; or
Threshold AES-4: Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area.
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As previously noted,the project site consists of the existing 15th Street Detention Basin and is generally surrounded by a developed urban environment, with views of distant hillsides available from some surrounding locations. Generally, in the context of aesthetic impacts, a project's location and surroundings are important in determining whether a project's effects on the environment should be treated as significant. Vegetation within the basin consists of limited amount of wetland and scrub vegetation (see Section 4.3). Where they occur, wetland areas in the basin appear to receive ephemeral flows from collected stormwater during storm events or runoff from the adjacent (to the north) golf course. Vegetation in the basin is periodically maintained (which may include partial or total removal/abatement of vegetation by hand and/or machinery and associated ground modification) as appropriate and necessary to ensure the functionality of the basin's flood control systems.3 The project site does not contain any unique visual features or scenic resources; therefore,the following analysis focuses on the views of scenic resources available from the project site and the surrounding areas.
For the purposes of the following analysis, high-quality views have topographic relief, a variety of vegetation, rich colors, impressive scenery, and unique natural and/or built features. Moderate quality views have interesting but minor landforms, some variety in vegetation and color and/or moderate scenery. Low quality views have uninteresting features, little variety in vegetation and color, uninteresting scenery, and/or common elements. In addition,viewer types in the project area are broad, including motorists, pedestrians, and neighboring uses. Public viewer groups are limited to motorists and pedestrians along public roadways in the project vicinity, as well as users of nearby parks and public open spaces. In addition, for informational purposes,this evaluation includes a discussion of representative views from adjacent private residential properties as seen from public roadways in residential areas; private views are not considered protected scenic views pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).4
Viewer exposure conditions were determined based on a review of a variety of data, including project maps and drawings, aerial and ground-level photographs of the project area, conceptual simulations of the proposed project, and field observations. Variables include the viewing distance, angle of view, the extent to which views are screened or open, and duration of view. Viewing distances are described according to whether the proposed project would be viewed within a foreground zone (within 0.5 mile), middleground zone (0.5 to 2 miles), or background zone (beyond 2 miles). Viewing angle and extent of visibility consider the relative location of the proposed project to the viewer and whether visibility conditions are open and panoramic, or limited by intervening vegetation, structures, or terrain.
3 A review of the project site indicates access to the basin is limited to vehicular access for maintenance via locked access gates,which declare the basin to be"Private Property". Public pedestrian access is not provided but may be possible informally where the chain link fence has been damaged or otherwise breached.
4 The California Court of Appeals concluded in its Mira Mar Mobile Community v. Oceanside decision that potential impacts related to views from private lands are not considered impacts under CEQA unless the lead agency has specifically adopted a standard or policy relevant to the project site specifically protecting a private landowner's views.The City of Upland,as the CEQA lead agency for the proposed project, has not adopted any such policy or standard.
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The duration of the view pertains to the amount of time the project facilities or area would typically be seen from a sensitive viewpoint. In general,the duration of the view would be less for motorists on major travel routes and other locations where the project would be seen for short or intermittent periods. Duration becomes greater when the project may be seen regularly and repeatedly, with the viewer facing the project for an extended period of time.
4.1.2.2 Project Impacts
The following describes the potential impacts related to aesthetics that could result from implementation of the proposed project.
Threshold AES-1: Scenic Vistas. Scenic resources may consist of unique topographic, geologic, landscape, or built-environment features and include limited or expansive views of such resources.
A scenic vista is generally defined as a publicly accessible vantage point that provides expansive or panoramic views. Cities may also recognize scenic corridors as being locally significant. Scenic corridors are considered a defined area of landscape, viewed as a single entity that includes the total field of vision visible from a specific point, or a series of points along a linear transportation route. Public view corridors are areas in which short-range, medium-range, and long-range views are available from publicly accessible viewpoints (e.g., from city streets).
There are no officially designated scenic vistas within Upland; however, the General Plan identifies the San Gabriel Mountains (including Mt. Baldy) as visually significant,to the extent that these features are visible from public streets, parks, and public pathways. As discussed above in Section
4.1.1, Setting, surrounding hillsides and mountains (including Mt. Baldy) are visible in the background from the project area; however,views are intermittently or largely obstructed by existing development and mature trees and therefore are not considered to be expansive from any given public vantage point or of such high quality as to constitute a scenic vista.
As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description,the proposed project would consist of the development of 65 single-family detached residential units with lots that would range in size from 3,337 to 5,048 square feet.The residential units would be up to 2,691 square feet in size and a maximum of 35 feet in height. Although the size of the overall basin would be reduced,the basin modifications would not result in the development of structures or features that would either change the general aesthetic profile or condition of the remaining basin or be visually intrusive to the general publics Modifications to the area directly east of the residential development footprint would allow the remaining basin to function in a similar manner as the existing basin and would continue to provide appropriate stormwater and flood control capacity. The 4.29-acre "conservation s Modifications to the bottom of the remaining basin would be made from the toe of the new slope to a point approximately 900 linear feet to the east by grading the bottom of the basin in this area to an elevation of approximately 1,410 feet above mean sea level (amsl)from an existing elevation of 1,414 to 1,415 feet amsl.The project includes the extension and/or relocation in outlet and inlet structures within the modified basin.The basin would additionally retrofitted to accommodate a trapezoidal emergency spillway with a crest at an elevation of 1,426.6 amsl.The emergency spillway,with a base of 16 feet and a top width of 48.4 feet,would be installed at the end of Grove Avenue.These features and structures are anticipated to be substantially similar to those currently within the basin and are not expected to be visually intrusive.
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area" at the extreme eastern boundary of the basin would remain unaffected by project activities.
The discussion below focuses on changes in the visual character resulting from the development of the residential uses and ancillary features. Changes to the viewshed resulting from implementation of the proposed project are discussed below:
• Views from the North:There are no publicly available views of the project site from the north, as existing single-family residential uses and mature vegetation within the private Upland Hill's Country Club obscure any view of the site from nearby roadways (such as East 16th Street).The new residential uses on the project site would be similar in height to the existing residential uses along Upland Hills Drive South and Winged Foot Drive, and therefore would not be visible to users (i.e., automobiles and pedestrians) of East 16th Street, Upland Hills Drive South, and Winged Foot Drive.6 Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not have a substantial effect on scenic resources as viewed from the north. • Views from the East: Public views of the project site from the east are limited to the portion of East 15th Street that is located south of the residential development area, existing development and the remainder of the basin prevent public access to any other areas east of the residential development area.There are no scenic resources visible from East 15th Street, as any distant or background views are completely obscured by existing development and mature trees.The proposed residential uses would be similar in height to existing residential uses east of the project site, and therefore the resulting viewshed would be similar to existing conditions.
Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not have a substantial effect on scenic resources as viewed from the east at East 15th Street, a public roadway. • Views from the South:Views of the project site from the south are available from East 15th Street, North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, and Alta Avenue. The project site is not visible from other surrounding roadways such as Diego Way or Carlos Way due to existing development.As described above,the San Gabriel Mountains and Mt. Baldy would be the main scenic resource visible from viewpoints south of the project site.The proposed project would include new single-family residential uses on the currently undeveloped project site, and therefore would introduce new structures onto the site. However,the proposed residential uses would be below the height of the existing mature trees along the northern border of the project site.Therefore, while the proposed project would slightly obscure lower views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Mt. Baldy,the ridgeline and most prominent views (i.e., higher views that extend above the existing mature trees) would continue to be visible with implementation of the proposed project. In addition, as stated above, North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, and Alta Avenue all gently slope downwards as these roadways move further south of the project site.Therefore, as users (i.e., automobiles and pedestrians) move further to the south,the topography of the roadways would begin to obscure views of the project site and the proposed residential development. Therefore,the resulting viewshed would be similar to existing conditions, and the San Gabriel Mountains and Mt. Baldy would continue to be visible from public vantage points with implementation of the proposed project.Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not have a substantial effect on scenic resources as viewed from 6 Upland Hills Drive South and Winged Foot Drive are private roadways accessible only to residents and visitors of the Upland Hills Country Club.
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East 15th Street, North 13th Avenue, Fernando Avenue, or Alta Avenue, all of which are public roadways.
• Views from the West: Public views from the west are limited to the portion of East 15th Street that is located southwest of the project site, as existing development along Sawtooth Drive prevents public access to any other areas west of the project site. Background views of distant hillsides are visible to the east; however,these views are largely obscured by mature vegetation.
From this vantage point,views are of the berm,fence, and vegetation. Surrounding mature trees are also visible. New residential uses would be similar in scale and height to existing uses and would not significantly further obscure views of the hillsides to the east, as they would still be available to users (i.e., automobiles and pedestrians) as they move west along East 15th Street.The resulting viewshed would be similar to existing conditions, and the hillside would continue to be visible in the background with implementation of the proposed project.
Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not have a substantial effect on scenic resources as view from East 15th Street, a public roadway.
Overall, although the proposed project would introduce new development at the project site, the proposed development would not substantially or completely obstruct existing public views of identified scenic resources.Therefore, the proposed project would not have a substantial adverse effect on views of scenic resources and vistas, and impacts would be less than significant.
Threshold AES-2: State Scenic Highways.As described in Section 4.1.1.3,Visual Character of the Surrounding Area,there are no State-designated Scenic Highways within, or in the vicinity of, the project site.The nearest eligible State Scenic Highways include Routes 57 and 142, both of which are more than 10 miles southwest of the project site.The nearest designated State Scenic Highway is Route 2 approximately 17 miles north of the project site. Due to distance,the project site is not visible from any of these highways.Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not damage existing scenic resources within a State Scenic Highway, and no impact would occur.
Threshold AES-3:Visual Quality-Related Policies.The project site is located within an urbanized area.As discussed in Section 4.1.1.1, the far western portion of the basin had been filled and subsequently developed as a 54-unit single-family residential gated community, consisting of two- story homes. Lot sizes range from 4,600 to 6,400 square feet. Representative samples of home sizes in this community range from 1,844 to 2,567 square feet.This community is directly west of the proposed project site, and is generally similar in size, scale and massing as the proposed residential units.'Golf-course uses and single-story duplex condominiums are to the north within the Upland Hills Country Club community. A sampling of homes in this community indicated home sizes ranging from 1,390 square feet (approximately 2,700 for a single-story duplex building) to nearly 2,300 square feet in a detached 2-story residence. Based on publicly available real estate databases,the Red Hills North gated community east of the 15th Street Basin includes single-story fourplex condominiums (combined square footage of approximately 5,900 square feet), single-story duplex ' A representative sampling of residences via Zillow( www.zillow.com/upland-ca) , redline ( https://www.redfin.com/city/20340/CA/Upland/)and San Bernardino County Property Information Management System https://www.sbcounty.gov/assessor/pims/PIMSINTERFACE.ASPX(sites accessed September 20,and October 9-10,2024.)
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condominiums (approximately 3,100 square feet combined), and two-story duplexes (approximately 3,500 square feet combined). The size of the duplex and fourplex buildings in gated communities north and east of the site equal to or greater that the individual units proposed for development on the project site.The residences in the gated communities west, north, and east of the project maintain a common design and landscape scheme with other residences/buildings of their respective communities.
The neighborhood south of the project site is composed of one-and two-story residences on lots ranging in size from 8,850 to 10,100 square feet. Housing size in this neighborhood generally ranges from 1,560 to 2,060 square feet. Although the size and standard architectural elements of homes in this neighborhood appear similar, the neighborhood has no singular, uniform standard governing architectural coatings, facade improvements, ancillary features, parking, landscaping, or fencing.$ Development of the proposed project would alter the visual character of the project site through the construction of new single-family residential uses. Residential lots would range in size from 3,337 to 5,048 square feet. Various floor plans would provide from 2,062 to up to 2,691 square feet of living area.The residential units would have a maximum height of 35 feet and would include up to four bedrooms. At full buildout, the proposed project would include a total of 65 single-family residential uses as well as associated site improvements including common open space areas and new roadways and landscaping.The lot size proposed is smaller than the existing neighborhood to the south, although it is within the size range of the newer community to the west. The smallest home size proposed is similar to the largest size of homes in the neighborhood to the south, although is similar in size and scale to the community to the west. The height and massing of the proposed homes are similar to that of the two-story homes in the community to the west; although the overall mass of buildings is no greater than the duplex and fourplex buildings in the Upland Hills Country Club and Red Hill North communities to the north and the east, respectively.
As discussed in Chapter 3.0, Project Description,the project site would be rezoned to Villa Serena Specific Plan (Specific Plan) as part of the proposed project.The Specific Plan establishes a procedure for development of the project site and includes the following development standards:
(1) General Site Development Standards; (2) Green and Sustainable Development Standards; (3) Permitted Uses and Structures; (4) Residential Development Standards; (5)Temporary Uses; (6) Open Space Development Standards; (7) Landscaping, Fencing, and Walls; (8) Signage; and (9) Lighting. Each of the residential units on the project site would be required to comply with the development standards in the Specific Plan.A summary of each of these standards is provided below.
• General Site Development Standards:The General Site Development Standards set the maximum number of residential dwelling units on the project site at 65 and require 42,000 square feet of private common open space. Residential building additions and/or alterations permitted by the specific plan would be required to match the architectural style of the primary dwelling units, and all new and existing electric utility lines of 34.5 kilovolts would be required to be subsurface throughout the project site.
s Based on a review of the neighborhood via Google Earth,October 2024.
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• Green and Sustainable Development Standards:The Green and Sustainable Development Standards require modern telecommunications technology, all homes to meet or exceed Title 24 energy standards, low-water appliances, solid waste/recycling education, sustainable construction practices including clean-burning fuels and material recycling, and native landscaping and irrigation systems in common areas.
• Permitted Uses and Structures:The following uses and structures are permitted within the project site: single-family residences with detached garages; attached and detached patios and patio covers; public or private parks; small-family child care/day care facilities; accessory uses conforming to the provisions of Zoning Code Section 17.19; home occupations conforming to the provisions of Zoning Code Section 17.27; cottage food operations conforming to the provisions of Zoning Code Section 17.25; and, model home and subdivision sales trailers and associated structures.
• Residential Development Standards:All residential development on the project site would be subject to the development standards contained in Table 3.1 of the proposed Specific Plan. In particular, residential development would have a maximum allowable height of two stories and 35 feet in height for main structures and 15 feet for patio covers. Fences would be limited to 6 feet in height and retaining walls would be limited to 4 feet. • Temporary Uses:Temporary uses would be permitted on the project site pursuant to Zoning Code Chapter 17.41.
• Open Space Development Standards:The Open Space Development Standards require a central private common area open space to be provided as well as private pocket parks. All open space improvements would be required to be approved by the City as part of Development Plan Review.
• Landscaping, Fencing,and Walls:All landscape and irrigation plans for streetscapes and common area open space including graphic designs with regard to the identity of the Specific Plan, neighborhood identity, or entry monuments shall conform to the regulations as set forth in the proposed Specific Plan and shall be subject to review and approval by the City at the time of Development Plan Review.The form and content of landscape plans for streets, common area open space, and other common areas would be required to conform to the requirements of the City's Development Plan Review application requirements. • Signage:A Master Sign Plan would be required to be submitted and approved by the City subject to Development Plan Review pursuant to Zoning Code Section 17.44.030.The Master Sign Program would be required address residential project entries, residential neighborhood identification signs, and way finding signs within the project. No project signs shall be permitted in the public right-of-way.
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The regulations built into the Specific Plan listed above would ensure the visual quality of the project site would not be degraded, as it would limit heights of residences, accessory structures, and fences and walls on the project site to heights similar to those of surrounding residential uses. In addition, many of the regulations listed above, such as open space and signage, would require review and approval by the City, ensuring that they would be consistent with City standards.
As described in Section 4.1.1.7 above,the City's General Plan includes policies that protect scenic quality in the City. In particular, Policy LU-6.1 requires that new development promotes harmony in the visual relationships and transitions between newer and older buildings and Policy CC-1.6 requires private development to enhance public view corridors of the San Gabriel Mountains, where feasible.
As discussed above under Threshold 4.1.1, although development of the project site would result in new residential uses on the project site that would partially further obstruct already limited views of surrounding hillsides and ridgelines, intermittent views of surrounding short-and long-range hillsides and ridgelines would still be available from public vantage points (including East 15th Street) in the vicinity of the project site.Additionally, because the proposed project would occur in an existing urban, developed area that is currently underutilized,the intensification of development on the project site would have a lesser impact on short-and long-range ridgelines compared to new development in a previously undeveloped or sparsely developed area. Implementation of the proposed project would represent a continuation of the existing pattern of residential development in the surrounding area.The proposed project would include single-family residences that would be a maximum of two stories in height and would be similar in density to surrounding residential uses.
As a result of the regulations built into the Specific Plan,the proposed project would not conflict with the visual quality-related policies and programs set forth in the Upland General Plan (including Policies LU-6.1 and CC-1.6) or impede attainment of a complimentary visual relationship between the proposed project and existing and planned development surrounding the site,the project area's overall topography, or short-range and long-range ridgelines. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
Threshold AES-4: Light and Glare.The project site is located in an urban area with a variety of existing light sources, including street and parking area lights, interior and exterior building lighting, and light associated with traffic on nearby roadways (East 15th Street).The proposed project would result in the introduction of new residential uses to the project site, which would introduce new sources of light and glare to the area in the form of new windows, new interior lighting, new exterior safety and security lighting, and additional automobile presence.
The City's Municipal Code Chapter 17.14, Outdoor Lighting, regulates lighting to avoid creating undue off-site light impacts. New lighting would be required to comply with the standards, subject to review and recommendation by the community development department. Further requirements include the shielding of light fixtures and minimization of foot-candle intensity to minimize impacts on adjacent development, and compatibility with on-site and off-site light sources.
Additionally,the proposed Specific Plan regulates the types of colors and materials that could be used on the project site.The residential architecture of the proposed development would feature a
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series of styles that are commonly found in Southern California, including Spanish, Italianate, and French Country, which are set to vary among the planned homes.These three styles generally include plaster or stucco walls, stone or brick veneer, and clay tile roofs, and would therefore limit glare-producing materials to new windows.
Overall, although the proposed project would result in an increase in intensity of lighting and glare at the project site,the project site and surrounding areas are already developed and contribute to nighttime illumination and glare under existing conditions, and the proposed project would generally be consistent with existing surrounding uses. While the height and mass of the new buildings would make light from the project site noticeable from off-site locations, it would be absorbed into the overall lighting patterns that already exist in the area. Additionally, the proposed project would be subject to various Municipal Code and General Plan requirements that would minimize potential impacts related to light and glare that may result from the increase in intensity at the project site.As such, implementation of the proposed project would not create a source of light and glare that would substantially or adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area, and this impact would be less than significant.
4.1.2.3 Cumulative Impacts
The geographic area considered for the aesthetic cumulative analysis includes the neighborhoods adjacent to the project site and landscape within the immediate viewshed. Development of proposed on-site uses would be subject to applicable standards, regulations, and design guidelines to create a visually consistent and cohesive pattern of development. It is anticipated that other development in Upland as assumed under the General Plan would equally be subject to these regulations. Because the proposed project and other cumulative development projects would be subject to the City's design review process, it is reasonable to conclude that each project will be conditioned to fully comply with the specific siting, design, and improvement requirements established in its respective zoning district or Specific Plan.As with the proposed project, as each cumulative project incorporates the appropriate City-required conditions, it is reasonable to conclude its project-specific impacts would be similarly reduced to a less than significant level.
Therefore, past, present, and future projects in the area are not expected to result in a significant cumulative impact to visual resources, and the project would not make a considerable contribution to such an impact.As such,the project would result in less than significant cumulative impacts related to visual resources.
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4.2 AIR QUALITY
This section provides a discussion of the proposed project's potential air quality impacts and mitigation measures by examining the short-term construction and long-term operational impacts associated with the project and by evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation measures incorporated as part of the project design.The evaluation was prepared in accordance with appropriate standards, utilizing procedures and methodologies in the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) CEQA Air Quality Handbook1 using the latest California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod) computer program developed and maintained by the SCAQMD.Air quality data from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) web sites were used to characterize the local air quality environment.This section also summarizes information provided in the Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Assessment prepared for the proposed project, which is included as Appendix C.2
4.2.1 Setting
The project site is in Upland, San Bernardino County, California, which is a part of the South Coast Air Basin (Basin) and under the jurisdiction of the SCAQMD.The Basin, a 6,745-square-mile subregion of the SCAQMD, is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains to the north and east.The Basin includes Orange County and the non-desert portions of Los Angeles County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County.
4.2.1.1 Regional Climate
The annual average temperatures throughout the Basin vary from the low to middle 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The climate of the Basin can be characterized as semi-arid, but the air near the land surface is often moist due to the presence of a marine layer from the Pacific Ocean.Average humidity in the Basin is 71 percent along the coast and 59 percent inland. Most of the Basin's rainfall occurs from November through April.Annual average rainfall varies from 9 inches in Riverside to 14 inches in downtown Los Angeles. Monthly and yearly rainfall totals within the Basin can vary.
Wind patterns across the Basin are characterized by westerly and southwesterly onshore winds during the day and easterly or northeasterly breezes at night. Wind speeds can vary during the dry summer months and the rainy winter season.The Basin is also subjected to Santa Ana wind events, which are strong, dry offshore winds.
4.2.1.2 Climate and Meteorology
Air quality in the project area is not only affected by various emissions sources (e.g.,vehicle emissions and stationary industry sources) but also by atmospheric conditions such as wind speed, wind direction,temperature, rainfall, and amount of sunshine.The topography, low mixing height, abundant sunshine, and emissions from the second largest urban area in the United States combine to give the Basin the worst air pollution problem in the nation.The Basin experiences a persistent temperature inversion (increasing temperature with increasing altitude) as a result of the Pacific 1 South Coast Air Quality Management District(SCAQMD). 1993. CEQA Air Quality Handbook. 2 Urban Crossroads.2024a. Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality& Greenhouse Gas Assessment.
September 30.
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High, a large subtropical high-pressure system that holds air contaminants relatively near the ground.
Winds in the Basin are predominantly of relatively low velocity, averaging about 4 miles per hour (mph).These low average wind speeds,together with a persistent temperature inversion, limit the vertical dispersion of air pollutants throughout the Basin. Strong, dry, north or northeasterly winds known as Santa Ana winds occur during the fall and winter months, dispersing air contaminants.
These Santa Ana wind conditions tend to last for several days at a time. Local winds at the project site blow predominantly from the south and southwest with an average annual wind speed of about 10 mph. Summertime average wind speeds are slightly higher than winter wind speeds.
During periods of low inversions and low wind speeds, air pollutants generated in urbanized areas are transported predominantly onshore into eastern Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. In the winter,the greatest pollution problems are carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) because of extremely low inversions and air stagnation during the night and early morning hours. In the summer,the longer daylight hours and the brighter sunshine combine to cause a reaction between hydrocarbons and nitrous oxide (NOx)that forms photochemical smog.
4.2.1.3 Air Pollutants and Health Effects
Ozone (03). 03 is a secondary air pollutant produced in the atmosphere through a complex series of photochemical reactions involving volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
The main sources of VOCs and NOx, often referred to as ozone precursors, are combustion processes (including combustion in motor vehicle engines) and the evaporation of solvents, paints, and fuels.
Automobiles are typically the largest source of ozone precursors. Ozone is referred to as a regional air pollutant because its precursors are transported and diffused by wind concurrently with ozone production through the photochemical reaction process. Ozone causes eye irritation, airway constriction, and shortness of breath and can aggravate existing respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Carbon Monoxide (CO). CO is an odorless, colorless gas usually formed as the result of the incomplete combustion of fuels.The single largest source of CO is motor vehicles. CO transport is limited, dispersing with distance from the source under normal meteorological conditions. However, under certain extreme meteorological conditions, CO concentrations near congested roadways or intersections may reach unhealthful levels that adversely affect local sensitive receptors (e.g., residents, schoolchildren,the elderly, and hospital patients).Typically, high CO concentrations are associated with roadways or intersections operating at unacceptable levels of service (LOS) or with extremely high traffic volumes. Exposure to high concentrations of CO reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue, impair central nervous system function, and induce angina (chest pain) in persons with serious heart disease.
Extremely high levels of CO, such as those generated when a vehicle is running in an unventilated garage, can be fatal.
Particulate Matter(PMlo and PM2.5). Particulate matter is a class of air pollutants that consists of heterogeneous solid and liquid airborne particles from human-made and natural sources.
Particulate matter is categorized in two size ranges: PM10 for particles less than 10 microns in size
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and PM2.5 for particles less than 2.5 microns in size. Motor vehicles are the primary generators of particulates (via tailpipe emissions as well as brake pad,tire wear, and entrained road dust). Wood burning in fireplaces and stoves, industrial facilities, and ground-disturbing activities such as construction are other sources of fine particulates.These fine particulates are small enough to be inhaled into the deepest parts of the human lung and can cause adverse health effects. According to the CARB, studies in the United States and elsewhere have demonstrated a strong link between elevated particulate levels and premature deaths, hospital admissions, emergency room visits, and asthma attacks, and studies of children's health in California have demonstrated that particle pollution may significantly reduce lung function growth in children.'Statewide attainment of particulate matter standards could reduce premature deaths, hospital admissions for cardiovascular and respiratory disease, asthma-related emergency room visits, and episodes of respiratory illness in California.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2). NO2 is a reddish-brown gas that is a byproduct of combustion processes.
Automobiles and industrial operations are the main sources of NO2. Aside from its contribution to ozone formation, NO2 also contributes to other pollution problems, including a high concentration of fine particulate matter (PM25), poor visibility, and acid deposition. NO2 may be visible as a coloring component on high-pollution days, especially in conjunction with high ozone levels. NO2 decreases lung function and may reduce resistance to infection.
Sulfur Dioxide. SO2 is a colorless acidic gas with a strong odor. It is produced by the combustion of sulfur-containing fuels such as oil, coal, and diesel. SO2 has the potential to damage materials and can cause health effects at high concentrations. It can irritate lung tissue and increase the risk of acute and chronic respiratory disease. SO2 also reduces visibility and the level of sunlight at the ground surface.
Lead. Lead is a metal found naturally in the environment as well as in manufactured products.The major sources of lead emissions have historically been mobile and industrial sources. As a result of the phase-out of leaded gasoline, metal processing is currently the primary source of lead emissions.
The highest levels of lead in air are generally found near lead smelters. Other stationary sources are waste incinerators, utilities, and lead-acid battery factories.Twenty years ago, mobile sources were the main contributor to ambient lead concentrations in the air. In the early 1970s,the EPA established national regulations to gradually reduce the lead content in gasoline. In 1975, unleaded gasoline was introduced for motor vehicles equipped with catalytic converters.The EPA banned the use of leaded gasoline in highway vehicles in December 1995.As a result of EPA regulatory efforts to remove lead from gasoline, emissions of lead from the transportation sector and levels of lead in the air have substantially decreased from historic levels.
Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs). In addition to the criteria pollutants discussed above,TACs are another group of pollutants of concern. Some examples of TACs include benzene, butadiene, formaldehyde, and hydrogen sulfide. Potential human health effects of TACs include birth defects, neurological damage, cancer, and death.There are hundreds of different types of TACs with varying 3 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2020. Inhalable Particulate Matter and Health(PM2.5 and PM10).
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degrees of toxicity. Individual TACs vary greatly in the health risk they present; at a given level of exposure, one TAC may pose a hazard that is many times greater than another.
TACs do not have ambient air quality standards, but are regulated by the EPA, CARB, and the SCAQMD. In 1998,the CARB identified particulate matter from diesel-fueled engines as a TAC.The CARB has completed a risk management process that identified potential cancer risks for a range of activities and land uses that are characterized by the use of diesel-fueled engines.4 High-volume freeways, stationary diesel engines, and facilities attracting heavy and constant diesel vehicle traffic (e.g., distribution centers,truck stops)were identified as posing the highest risk to adjacent receptors. Other facilities associated with increased risk include warehouse distribution centers, large retail or industrial facilities, high-volume transit centers, and schools with a high volume of bus traffic. Health risks from TACs are a function of both concentration and duration of exposure.
Unlike TACs emitted from industrial and other stationary sources noted above, most diesel particulate matter(DPM) is emitted from mobile sources—primarily"off-road" sources such as construction and mining equipment, agricultural equipment, and truck-mounted refrigeration units, as well as trucks and buses traveling on freeways and local roadways.
The CARB Diesel Risk Reduction Plan is intended to substantially reduce DPM emissions and associated health risks through introduction of ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel—a step already implemented—and cleaner-burning diesel engines.'The technology for reducing DPM emissions from heavy-duty trucks is well established, and both State and federal agencies are moving aggressively to regulate engines and emission control systems to reduce and remediate diesel emissions.
High-Volume Roadways.Air pollutant exposures and their associated health burdens vary considerably within places in relation to sources of air pollution. Motor vehicle traffic is perhaps the most important source of intra-urban spatial variation in air pollution concentrations. Air quality research consistently demonstrates that pollutant levels are substantially higher near freeways and busy roadways, and human health studies have consistently demonstrated that children living within 328 to 656 feet(100 to 200 meters) of freeways or busy roadways have reduced lung function and higher rates of respiratory disease.At present, it is not possible to attribute the effects of roadway proximity on non-cancer health effects to one or more specific vehicle types or vehicle pollutants. Engine exhaust from diesel, gasoline, and other combustion engines is a complex mixture of particles and gases with collective and individual toxicological characteristics.
4.2.1.4 Sensitive Receptors
Some population groups are especially sensitive to air pollution and are given special consideration when evaluating air quality impacts from projects.These groups of people include children,the 4 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2000a. Fact Sheet—California's Plan to Reduce Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions.October.Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/guidance-documents , (accessed January 2023).
5 CARB.2000b.Risk Reduction Plan to Reduce Particulate Matter Emissions from Diesel-Fueled Engines and Vehicles.October. Prepared by the Stationary Source Division and Mobile Source Control Division.
Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/guidance-documents(accessed January 2023).
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elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular illness. Structures that house these persons or places where they gather are defined as "sensitive receptors".These structures typically include uses such as residences, hotels, and hospitals where an individual can remain for 24 hours. Consistent with localized significance threshold (LST) methodology,the land use nearest the project site where an individual could remain for 24 hours was used to determine construction and operational air quality impacts for emissions of PM10 and PM2.5 because thresholds for both are based on a 24-hour averaging time.
The following describes receptors in the project study area. All distances are measured from the project site boundary to the outdoor living areas (e.g., backyards) or at the building facade, Sensitive receptors are identified below and in Figure 4.2-1.The nearest receptor used for evaluation of localized impacts of PM10 and PM2.5 is location R10 represented by the existing residence at 1540 North Himalayas Circle, approximately 12 feet northwest of the Project site. • Receptor R1 represents the existing residence at 1168 Upland Hills Drive South, approximately 187 feet north of the project site.
• Receptor R2 represents the existing residence at 1246 Upland Hills Drive South, approximately 144 feet north of the project site.
• Receptor R3 represents the existing residence at 1442 Upland Hills Drive South, 179 feet north of the project site.
• Receptor R4 represents the existing residence at 1512 Grove Avenue, 51 feet south of the project site.
• Receptor R5 represents the existing residence at 1377 E 15th Street, 27 feet south of the project site.
• Receptor R6 represents the existing residence at 1345 E 15th Street, 17 feet south of the project site.
• Receptor R7 represents the existing residence at 1496 Carlos Way, 591 feet south of the project site.
• Receptor R8 represents the existing residence at 1497 Fernando Avenue, 28 feet south of the project site.
• Receptor R9 represents the existing residence at 1030 Sawtooth Drive, 29 feet north of the project site.
• Receptor R10 represents the existing residence at 1540 North Himalayas Circle, 12 feet northwest of the project site.
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SOURCE:Google Earth,2023 Sensitive Receptors
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4.2.1.5 Regulatory Framework
The SCAQMD is primarily responsible for regulating air pollution emissions from stationary sources (e.g.,factories) and indirect sources (e.g., traffic associated with new development), as well as for monitoring ambient pollutant concentrations.The USEPA and the CARB regulate direct emissions from motor vehicles.
The following discusses the applicable federal, State, regional, and local framework.
Federal Regulations.At the federal level,the EPA has been charged with implementing national air quality programs.The EPA air quality mandates are drawn primarily from the federal Clean Air Act (FCAA), which was enacted in 1963.The FCAA was amended in 1970, 1977, and 1990.
The FCAA required the EPA to establish primary and secondary National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and required each state to prepare an air quality control plan referred to as a State Implementation Plan (SIP).The FCAA Amendments of 1990 added requirements for states with nonattainment areas to revise their SIPs to incorporate additional control measures to reduce air pollution.The SIP is periodically modified to reflect the latest emissions inventories, planning documents, and rules and regulations of the air basins as reported by their jurisdictional agencies.
The EPA has the responsibility of reviewing all state SIPs to determine their conformity with the mandates of the FCAA and whether implementation will achieve air quality goals. If the EPA determines a SIP to be inadequate, a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) may be prepared for the nonattainment area, which imposes additional control measures. Failure to submit an approvable SIP or to implement the plan within the mandated timeframe may result in sanctions on transportation funding and stationary air pollution sources in the air basin.
The EPA is also required to develop National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, which are defined as those that may reasonably be anticipated to result in increased deaths or serious illness and are not already regulated.An independent science advisory board reviews the health and exposure analyses conducted by the EPA on suspected hazardous pollutants prior to regulatory development.
State Regulations. CARB is the agency responsible for the coordination and oversight of State and local air pollution control programs in California and for implementing the California Clean Air Act (CCAA), adopted in 1988.The CCAA requires that all air districts in the State achieve and maintain the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) by the earliest practical date.The CCAA specifies that districts should focus on reducing the emissions from transportation and air-wide emission sources and provides districts with the authority to regulate indirect sources.
CARB is also primarily responsible for developing and implementing air pollution control plans to achieve and maintain the NAAQS. CARB is primarily responsible for statewide pollution sources and produces a major part of the SIP. Local air districts provide additional strategies for sources under their jurisdiction. CARB combines these data and submits the completed SIP to the EPA.
Other CARB duties include monitoring air quality(in conjunction with air monitoring networks maintained by air pollution control and air quality management districts), establishing CAAQS (which \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TC12201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.2 Air Quality.docx(10/10/24) 4.2-9
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are more stringent than the NAAQS), determining and updating area designations and maps, and setting emissions standards for mobile sources, consumer products, small utility engines, and off- road vehicles.The CARB Diesel Risk Reduction Plan is intended to substantially reduce DPM emissions and associated health risks through the introduction of ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel (a step that has already been implemented) and cleaner-burning diesel engines.' Because of the robust evidence relating proximity to roadways and a range of non-cancer and cancer health effects,the CARB also created guidance for avoiding air quality conflicts in land use planning in its Air Quality and Land Use Handbook:A Community Health Perspective (Air Quality and Land Use Handbook).' In its guidance, CARB advises that new sensitive uses (e.g., residences, schools, day care centers, playgrounds, and hospitals) not be located within 500 feet of a freeway or urban roads carrying 100,000 vehicles per day, or within 1,000 feet of a distribution center (warehouse)that accommodates more than 100 trucks or more than 90 refrigerator trucks per day.
CARB guidance suggests that the use of these guidelines be customized for individual land use decisions and take into account the context of proposed development projects.The Air Quality and Land Use Handbook specifically states that these recommendations are advisory and acknowledges that land use agencies must balance other considerations, including housing and transportation needs, economic development priorities, and other quality of life issues.
Regional Regulations. SCAQMD has jurisdiction over most air quality matters in the Basin. This area includes all of Orange County, Los Angeles County(except for Antelope Valley),the non-desert portion of western San Bernardino County, and the western and Coachella Valley portions of Riverside County. Policies set by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) also affect air quality within the Basin.
South Coast Air Quality Management District. SCAQMD is the agency principally responsible for comprehensive air pollution control in the Basin and is tasked with implementing certain programs and regulations required by the FCAA and the CCAA. SCAQMD prepares plans to attain CAAQS and NAAQS. SCAQMD is directly responsible for reducing emissions from stationary (area and point) sources. SCAQMD develops rules and regulations, establishes permitting requirements, inspects emissions sources, and enforces such measures though educational programs or fines, when necessary.
• Regulation IV—Prohibitions:This regulation sets forth the restrictions for visible emissions, odor nuisance,fugitive dust,various air pollutant emissions,fuel contaminants, start-up/ shutdown exemptions, and breakdown events.
6 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2000b.Risk Reduction Plan to Reduce Particulate Matter Emissions from Diesel-Fueled Engines and Vehicles.October. Prepared by the Stationary Source Division and Mobile Source Control Division.Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/guidance-documents , accessed January 2023.
California Environmental Protection Agency(CalEPA)and California Air Resources Board (CARB).2005.Air Quality and Land Use Handbook:A Community Health Perspective.April.
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o Rule 402—Nuisance:This rule restricts the discharge of any contaminant in quantities that cause or have a natural ability to cause injury, damage, nuisance, or annoyance to businesses, property, or the public.The proposed project will be required to comply with Rule 402.
o Rule 403—Fugitive Dust:This rule requires the prevention, reduction, or mitigation of fugitive dust emissions from a project site. Rule 403 restricts visible fugitive dust to a project property line, restricts the net PM10 emissions to less than 50 micrograms per cubic meter(µg/m3), and restricts the tracking out of bulk materials onto public roads.
Additionally, Rule 403 requires an applicant to utilize one or more of the best available control measures (identified in the tables within the rule). Control measures may include adding freeboard to haul vehicles, covering loose material on haul vehicles, watering, using chemical stabilizers, and/or ceasing all activities. Finally, Rule 403 requires that a contingency plan be prepared if so determined by the EPA. In addition, SCAQMD Rule 403(e),Additional Requirements for Large Operations, includes requirements to provide Large Operation Notification Form 403 N, appropriate signage, additional dust control measures, and employment of a dust control supervisor who has successfully completed the Dust Control training class in the Basin.The proposed project will be required to comply with Rule 403.
• Regulation XI—Source Specific Standards: Regulation XI sets emissions standards for different sources.
o Rule 1113—Architectural Coatings:This rule limits the amount of VOCs from architectural coatings and solvents,which lowers the emissions of odorous compounds.
The proposed project will be required to comply with Rule 1113.
SCAQMD is responsible for demonstrating regional compliance with ambient air quality standards but has limited direct involvement in reducing emissions from fugitive, mobile, and natural sources.To that end, SCAQMD works cooperatively with CARB, SCAG, county transportation commissions, local governments, and other federal and State government agencies. It has responded to this requirement by preparing a series of Air Quality Management Plans (AQMPs)to meet the CAAQS and NAAQS. SCAQMD and SCAG are responsible for formulating and implementing the AQMP for the Basin.The main purpose of an AQMP is to bring the area into compliance with federal and State air quality standards. Every several years, SCAQMD prepares a new AQMP, updating the previous plan and the 20-year horizon.'The Final 2022 Air Quality Management Plan is the currently adopted AQMP. Key elements of the Final 2022 AQMP include the following:
• Calculating and taking credit for co-benefits from other planning efforts (e.g., climate, energy, and transportation)
s South Coast Air Quality Management District(SCAQMD).2022. Final 2022 Air Quality Management Plan.
December 2.Website: http://www.agmd.gov/home/air-quality/clean-air-plans/air-quality-mgt-plan (accessed January 9,2023).
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• A strategy with fair-share emission reductions at the federal, State, and local levels • Investment in strategies and technologies meeting multiple air quality objectives • Seeking new partnerships and significant funding for incentives to accelerate deployment of zero-emission and near-zero emission technologies
• Enhanced socioeconomic assessment, including an expanded environmental justice analysis • Attainment of the 24-hour PM2.5 standard in 2019 with no additional measures • Attainment of the annual PM2.s standard by 2025 with implementation of a portion of the 03 strategy
• Attainment of the 1-hour 03 standard by 2022 with no reliance on "black box"future technology(FCAA Section 182(e)(5) measures)
The 2022 AQMP builds upon measures already in place from previous AQMPs. It also includes a variety of additional strategies such as regulation, accelerated deployment of available cleaner technologies (e.g., zero emissions technologies, when cost-effective and feasible, and low NOx technologies in other applications), best management practices, co-benefits from existing programs (e.g., climate and energy efficiency), incentives, and other FCAA measures to achieve the 2015 8-hour ozone standard.
Southern California Association of Governments. SCAG is a council of governments for Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Imperial, and Ventura Counties. It is a regional planning agency that serves as a forum for regional issues relating to transportation,the economy and community development, and the environment. SCAG is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)for the majority of the Southern California region and the largest MPO in the nation. With regard to air quality planning, SCAG prepares the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), which address regional development and growth forecasts and form the basis for the land use and transportation control portions of the AQMP and are utilized in the preparation of the air quality forecasts and consistency analysis included in the AQMP.The RTP, RTIP, and AQMP are based on projections originating within local jurisdictions.
Although SCAG is not an air quality management agency, it is responsible for developing transportation, land use, and energy conservation measures that affect air quality. SCAG's Regional Comprehensive Plan (RCP) provides growth forecasts that are used in the development of air quality-related land use and transportation control strategies by the SCAQMD.The RCP is a framework for decision-making for local governments, assisting them in meeting federal and State mandates for growth management, mobility, and environmental standards while maintaining consistency with regional goals regarding growth and changes. Policies within the RCP include consideration of air quality, land use, transportation, and economic relationships by all levels of government.
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SCAG adopted the 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), Connect SoCal, on September 3, 2020. Connect SoCal is a long-range visioning plan that balances future mobility and housing needs with economic, environmental, and public health goals. Connect SoCal is an important planning document for the region, allowing project sponsors to qualify for federal funding and takes into account operations and maintenance costs,to ensure reliability, longevity, and cost effectiveness.
Using growth forecasts and economic trends, the RTP provides a vision for transportation throughout the region for the next 20 years. It considers the role of transportation in the broader context of economic, environmental, and quality-of-life goals for the future, identifying regional transportation strategies to address mobility needs.The SCS is a required element of the RTP, which integrates land use and transportation strategies to achieve CARB emissions reduction targets.The inclusion of the SCS is required by Senate Bill (SB) 375,which was enacted to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from automobiles and light trucks through integrated transportation, land use, housing, and environmental planning.The RTP/SCS would successfully achieve and exceed the GHG emission-reduction targets set by CARB by achieving an 8 percent reduction by 2020, an 18 percent reduction by 2035, and a 21 percent reduction by 2040 compared to the 2005 level on a per capita basis.This RTP/SCS also meets criteria pollutant emission budgets set by the EPA.
City of Upland General Plan. The City of Upland addresses air quality in the Open Space and Conservation Element of the City's General Plan.The Open Space and Conservation Element contains goals, policies, and implementation measures that work toward reducing impacts to air quality at the local level by minimizing pollution and particulate matter.The following goals, policies, and implementation measures related to air quality are presented in the Open Space and Conservation Element'and are applicable to the proposed project:
Policy OSC-4.1: Promote land use patterns that reduce the number and length of motor vehicle trips.
Policy OSC-4.4:To the extent practicable,separate sensitive land uses from significant sources of air pollutants,toxic air contaminants,or odor emissions.
Policy OSC-4.6: Ensure that all land use decisions are made in an equitable manner in order to protect residents, regardless of age, culture,ethnicity,gender, race, socioeconomic status,or geographic location,from the health effects of air pollution.
Policy OSC-4.10:Continue to enforce the vehicle idling restrictions established by the State.
Policy OSC-4.11: Review proposed development projects as required by CEQA to ensure projects incorporate feasible measures that reduce construction and operational 9 City of Upland.2015. Upland General Plan:Open Space and Conservation Element.Website:
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emissions for reactive organic gases, nitrogen oxides,and particulate matter through project design.
Policy OSC-4.13: Require best management practices to reduce air pollution associated with construction of development projects.
Policy OSC-4.14: Review construction plans associated with development projects to determine if all feasible mitigation measures are included.
4.2.2 Impacts and Mitigation Measures
This section provides an assessment of the potential impacts related to air quality that could result from implementation of the proposed project.The section begins with significance criteria, which establish the thresholds for determining whether an impact is significant.The latter part of this section presents potential impacts associated with implementation of the proposed project and identifies applicable mitigation measures, as appropriate.
4.2.2.1 Significance Criteria
The following thresholds of significance were adapted from Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines. Based on these thresholds, implementation of the proposed project would not have a significant impact related to air quality if:
Threshold AIR-1: The proposed project would conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
Threshold AIR-2: The proposed project would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project is nonattainment under an applicable federal or State ambient air quality standard.
Threshold AIR-3: The proposed project would expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations.
Threshold AIR-4: Implementation of the proposed project would result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors)that would adversely affect a substantial number of people.
The SCAQMD has developed regional significance thresholds for criteria pollutants, as summarized in Tables 4.2.A and 4.2.B, below.The SCAQMD's CEQA Air Quality Significance Thresholds10 indicate that any projects in the Basin with daily emissions that exceed any of the indicated thresholds should be considered as having an individually and cumulatively significant air quality impact. 10 South Coast Air Quality Management District. 2023a.South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds. March.
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Table 4.2.A: SCAQMD Maximum Daily Regional Emissions Thresholds Air Pollutant Construction Phase Operational Phase (lbs/day) (lbs/day)
Volatile organic compounds(VOCs) 75 55
Carbon monoxide(CO) 550 550
Nitrogen oxides(NOx) 100 55
Sulfur oxides(SOx) 150 150
Particulate matter less than 10 microns in size(PM1o) 150 150 Particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size(PM2.5) 55 55 Source:SCAQMD(2023).
lbs/day=pounds per day
SCAQMD=South Coast Air Quality Management District
Table 4.2.B: Maximum Daily Localized Emissions Thresholds Emissions(lbs/day)
Source Activity VOCs NOx PM1a PM2.5
Site Preparation 187 1,392 8 6
Construction Grading 220 1,713 11 7
Source:Table 2,Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Assessment.Page 11(Urban Crossroads, 2024a.)
lbs/day=pounds per day
NOx=nitrogen oxides
PMDD=particulate matter less than 10 microns in size
PM2.5=particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size
VOCs=volatile organic compounds
The significance of localized project impacts under CEQA depends on whether ambient CO levels in the vicinity of the project site are above or below State and federal CO standards. Because ambient CO levels are below the standards throughout the Basin, a project would be considered to have a significant CO impact if project emissions result in an exceedance of one or more of the 1-hour or 8-hour standards.The following are applicable local emission concentration standards for CO:
• California State 1-hour CO standard of 20 parts per million (ppm) • California State 8-hour CO standard of 9 ppm
4.2.2.2 Project Impacts
The following section discusses the potential air quality impacts associated with implementation of the proposed project.
Threshold AIR-1:Air Quality Plan.A consistency determination plays an essential role in local agency project review by linking local planning and unique individual projects to the air quality plans. A consistency determination fulfills the CEQA goal of fully informing local agency decision- makers of the environmental costs of the project under consideration at a stage early enough to ensure that air quality concerns are addressed. Only new or amended General Plan elements, \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TC12201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.2 Air Quality.docx(10/10/24) 4.2-15
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Specific Plans, and significantly unique projects need to undergo a consistency review because the air quality plan strategies are based on projections from local General Plans.
Consistency with the 2022 AQMP would be achieved if the project is consistent with the goals, objectives, and assumptions in this plan to achieve the NAAQS and CAAQS. Per SCAQMD's CEQA Air Quality Handbook,there are two main indicators of a project's consistency with the AQMP:
• Indicator 1: Whether the project would result in an increase in the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations, cause or contribute to new violations, or delay timely attainment of the ambient air quality standards or emission reductions in the AQMP. • Indicator 2: Whether the project would exceed the assumptions in the AQMP.The AQMP strategy is, in part, based on projections from local general plans.
Indicator 1. The violations under this criterion refer to the CAAQS and NAAQS. Violations under both air quality standards would occur if regional or localized significance thresholds defined in Section 4.2.2.1 above were exceeded.As discussed in Threshold AIR-2 below,the proposed project's regional and localized construction and operations-source emissions would not exceed applicable regional and local significance thresholds. A less than significant impact is anticipated.
Therefore,the proposed project would be consistent with the first criterion.
Indicator 2. The 2022 AQMP demonstrates that the applicable ambient air quality standards can be achieved within the timeframes required under federal law. Growth projections from the local general plans adopted by cities within the AQMD are provided to SCAG, which develops regional growth forecasts that are then used to develop future air quality forecasts for the AQMP. Development consistent with the growth projections identified in the City of Upland General Plan is considered to be consistent with the AQMP.
Peak day emissions generated by construction activities are largely independent of land use assignments but rather are a function of development scope and maximum area of disturbance.
Irrespective of the site's land use designation, development of the site to its maximum potential would likely occur,with disturbance of the entire site occurring during construction activities. As discussed above for Indicator 1,the proposed project's regional and local construction and operation-source emissions would not exceed the assumptions in the AQMP.As such, when considering that no emissions thresholds would be exceeded, a less than significant impact would result.Therefore,the project would be consistent with the AQMP, a less than significant impact would occur, and no mitigation is required.
Threshold AIR-2:Criteria Pollutants. Both the EPA and CARB have established ambient air quality standards for common pollutants.These ambient air quality standards are levels of contaminants representing safe levels that avoid specific adverse health effects associated with each pollutant.
The ambient air quality standards cover what are called "criteria" pollutants because the health and other effects of each pollutant are described in criteria documents.The six criteria pollutants are 03 (precursor emissions include NOx and reactive organic gases [ROGs]), CO, PM, NO2, SO2, and lead.
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Areas that meet ambient air quality standards are classified as attainment areas, while areas that do not meet these standards are classified as non-attainment areas.
The CAAQS designate the region in which the project site is located as non-attainment for 03, PM10, and PM2.5, while the NAAQS designates the region in which the project site is located as non- attainment for 03 and PM2.5.
The Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Assessment11 prepared for the proposed project assumes that individual projects that do not generate operational or construction emissions exceeding SCAQMD's recommended daily thresholds for project-specific impacts would also not cause a cumulatively considerable increase in emissions for those pollutants for which the Basin is in nonattainment and, therefore,would not be considered to have a significant, adverse air quality impact. Alternatively, individual project-related construction and operational emissions that exceed SCAQMD thresholds for project-specific impacts would be considered cumulatively considerable.
Construction-Related Emissions. The estimated maximum daily construction emissions without mitigation are summarized in Table 4.2.C. Under the anticipated construction scenario of approximately 24 months, emissions resulting from project construction would not exceed thresholds established by the SCAQMD for emissions of any criteria pollutant.
The estimated localized impacts at the nearest sensitive receptor location in the vicinity of the project site are summarized in Table 4.2.D. Outputs for the model runs for construction LSTs are provided in the Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment prepared for the proposed project (see Appendix C).
Emissions associated with site preparation and grading activities are considered for the purposes of LSTs since these phases represent the maximum localized emission that would occur.The other anticipated construction phases that overlap would result in lesser emissions and consequently lesser impacts than what is disclosed herein. Emissions from project construction would not exceed the numerical thresholds of significance established by the SCAQMD for any criteria pollutant.
Construction-source air pollutant emissions from the proposed project would not result in exceedances of regional and local thresholds. Therefore, construction-source emissions would be considered less than significant on a project-specific and cumulative basis. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
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Table 4.2.C: Overall Regional Construction Emissions
Source Emissions(lbs per day)
VOCs NOx CO SOx _PM10 PM2s
Summer _
2024 1.42 12.5 16.3 0.03 0.91 0.59
Winter
2024 4.58 45.8 36.4 0.14 8.78 4.81
2025 39.9 7.53 10.9 0.01 0.54 0.37
Maximum Daily Emissions 39.9 45.8 36.4 0.14 8.78 4.81 SCAQMD Regional Threshold 75 100 550 _ 150 150 55 Threshold Exceeded? NO NO NO NO NO NO Source:Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment,Table 3,(Urban Crossroads.2024a).
CO=carbon monoxide PM2.s=particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size lbs/day=pounds per day SCAQMD=South Coast Air Quality Management District NOx=nitrogen oxides SOx=oxides of sulfur
PM10=particulate matter less than 10 microns in size VOCs=volatile organic compounds Table 4.2.D: Localized Construction Impacts
On-Site Emissions Emissions(lbs/day)
NOx CO PM10 PM2.5
Site Preparation
Maximum Daily Emissions 42.5 35.3 7.91 4.76 SCAQMD Localized Threshold 187 1,392 8 6
Threshold Exceeded? NO NO NO NO
Grading
Maximum Daily Emissions 23.1 20.6 3.62 2.16 SCAQMD Localized Threshold 220 1,713 11 7
Threshold Exceeded? NO NO NO NO
Source:Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment,Table 5, (Urban Crossroads.2024a).
CO=carbon monoxide PM10=particulate matter less than 10 microns in size lbs/day=pounds per day PM2s=particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size NOx=nitrogen oxides SCAQMD=South Coast Air Quality Management District Operational Emissions. The estimated operation-source emissions from the proposed project are summarized in Table 4.2.E. Operational-source emissions from the project would not exceed the applicable SCAQMD regional thresholds for emissions of any criteria pollutant.Therefore, proposed project operational source emissions would be considered less than significant on a project-specific and cumulative basis. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
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Table 4.2.E: Regional Operational Emissions Summary
Source Emissions(Ibs/day)
VOCs NOx CO SOx PMio PM2.5
Summer
Mobile 2.47 2.22 20.8 0.05 1.68 0.33
Area 3.32 1.01 4.09 0.01 _ 0.08 0.08
Energy 0.03 0.51 0.22 <0.005 0.04 0.04
Total Maximum Daily Emissions 5.82 3.74 25.11 0.06 1.8 0.45 SCAQMD Regional Threshold 55 55 550 150 150 55 Threshold Exceeded? NO NO NO NO NO NO
Winter
Mobile 2.29 2.38 17.5 0.05 1.68 0.33
Area 2.99 0.97 _ 0.41 _ 0.01 0.08 0.08 Energy 0.03 0.51 0.22 <0.005 0.04 0.04
Total Maximum Daily Emissions 5.31 3.86 18.13 0.06 1.8 0.45 SCAQMD Regional Threshold 55 55 550 150 150 55 Threshold Exceeded? NO NO NO NO NO NO
Source:Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment,Table 4,(Urban Crossroads,2024a).
CO=carbon monoxide PM2.5=particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size lbs/day=pounds per day SCAQMD=South Coast Air Quality Management District NOx=nitrogen oxides SOx=oxides of sulfur
PMto=particulate matter less than 10 microns in size VOCs=volatile organic compounds Threshold AIR-3:Substantial Pollutant Concentrations.Sensitive receptors are defined as people that have an increased sensitivity to air pollution or environmental contaminants. Sensitive receptor locations include schools, parks and playgrounds, daycare centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and residential dwelling units. LSTs represent the maximum emissions from a project that would not cause or contribute to an exceedance of the most stringent applicable NAAQS or CAAQS at the sensitive receptor.The sensitive receptors have been previously identified in Section 4.2.1.4 and Figure 4.2-1.
Construction and Operation LSTAnalysis. As shown in Tables 4.2.0 through 4.2.E above, emissions would not exceed the SCAQMD localized significance thresholds during both construction and operation.Therefore, sensitive receptors would not be exposed to substantial pollutant concentrations during project construction and as a result of project operations.
Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
CO Hot Spot Analysis. Vehicular trips associated with the proposed project would contribute to congestion at intersections and along roadway segments in the project vicinity. Localized air quality impacts to nearby sensitive receptors would occur when emissions from vehicular traffic increase as a result of the proposed project.The primary mobile-source pollutant of local concern is CO, which is a direct function of vehicle idling time and thus of traffic flow conditions.
CO transport is extremely limited; under normal meteorological conditions, CO disperses rapidly with distance from the source. However, under certain extreme meteorological conditions, CO concentrations near a congested roadway or intersection may reach unhealthy levels, affecting local sensitive receptors (e.g., residents, schoolchildren,the elderly, and hospital patients).
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unacceptable LOS or with extremely high traffic volumes. In areas with high ambient background CO concentrations, modeling is recommended to determine a project's effect on local CO levels.
At the time of the publishing of the 1993 CEQA Air Quality Handbook12, the Basin was designated nonattainment under the CAAQS and NAAQS for CO. With the turnover of older vehicles, introduction of cleaner fuels, and implementation of control technology on industrial facilities, CO concentrations in the Basin and in California have steadily declined. In 2007, SCAQMD was designated in attainment for CO under both the CAAQS and NAAQS.As identified within SCAQMD's 2003 AQMP and the 1992 Federal Attainment Plan for Carbon Monoxide (1992 CO Plan), peak CO concentrations in the Basin were a result of unusual meteorological and topographical conditions and not a result of congestion at specific intersections. A CO hot spot analysis that was conducted at four busy intersections in Los Angeles County at the peak morning and afternoon periods did not predict a violation of CO standards.13 Under existing and future vehicle emission rates, a project would have to increase traffic volumes at a single intersection by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour(vph), or 24,000 vph where vertical and/or horizontal air does not mix, in order to generate a significant CO impact.14 One of the worst intersections in the Basin (i.e., Sunset Boulevard/Highland Avenue)15 is in Los Angeles, approximately 66 miles west of the proposed project. Since SCAQMD-modeled intersections do not exceed the CO standards, intersections within the project study area with less volumes of traffic and under less extreme conditions would not exceed the CO standards. Buildout of the proposed project would not produce the volume of traffic, as described above, required to generate a CO hot spot that would affect nearby sensitive receptors.Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not be expected to result in CO hot spots, and impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
Threshold AIR-4: Odors. Land uses generally associated with odor complaints include:
• Agricultural Uses (Livestock and Farming)
• Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Food Processing Plants
• Chemical Plants
12 South Coast Air Quality Management District(SCAQMD). 1993. CEQA Air Quality Handbook.Website:
http://www.agmd.gov/home/rules-compliance/ceqa/air-quality-analysis-handbook/ceqa-air-quality- handbook-(1993), accessed January 9,2023.
13 The four intersections were Long Beach Boulevard/Imperial Highway,Wilshire Boulevard/Veteran Avenue,Sunset Boulevard/Highland Avenue,and La Cienega Boulevard/Century Boulevard.The busiest intersection evaluated (i.e.,Wilshire Boulevard/Veteran Avenue) had a daily traffic volume of approximately 100,000 vehicles and LOS E in the morning peak hour and LOS F in the evening peak hour. 14 Bay Area Air Quality Management District(BAAQMD).2017. California Environmental Quality Act Air Quality Guidelines. May.Website: https://www.baagmd.govNmedia/files/planning-and- research/ceqa/cega_guidelines_may2017-pdf.pdf(accessed January 9, 2023). is The intersection of Sunset Boulevard/Highland Avenue is within the city limits of Los Angeles and is used to represent a condition with a high volume of traffic during the a.m. and p.m. peak hours to demonstrate that intersections below the volume of traffic at this particular intersection, under less severe atmospheric conditions(i.e.,where vertical and horizontal air does not mix),would not result in a CO hot spot.
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• Composting Operations
• Refineries
• Landfills
• Dairies
• Fiberglass Molding Facilities
The project does not contain land uses typically associated with emitting objectionable odors.
Potential odor sources associated with the proposed project may result from construction equipment exhaust and the application of asphalt and architectural coatings during the construction activities and the temporary storage of typical solid waste (refuse) associated with the proposed project's operational uses. SCAQMD Rule 402 prohibits the discharge of any contaminant in quantities that cause or have a natural ability to cause injury, damage, nuisance, or annoyance to businesses, property, or the public. Standard construction practices (e.g.,the application of architectural coatings and use of asphalt heaters) are governed by SCAQMD Rules 1113 and 1120, respectively, which identify use and application procedures. Although not specifically drafted to control odors, compliance with these Rules limits the release of compounds that may generate objectionable odors.
Odors "disappear"when the aroma molecules disperse in the air to a concentration below the detection threshold. Construction odor emissions would be temporary, intermittent in nature, and due to their release in an outdoor environment, would dissipate upon release and would cease at the end of the respective phase of construction.The proposed project would be required to comply with SCAQMD Rule 402 to prevent occurrences of public nuisances as well as other applicable Rules specific to various construction processes; thereby limiting the release of objectionable odors. It is anticipated that project-generated refuse upon operation would be stored in covered containers and removed at regular intervals in compliance with local solid waste regulations. No other sources of objectionable odors have been identified for the proposed project.Therefore, compliance with applicable SCAQMD Rules and local regulations for solid waste disposal, odors associated with the proposed project construction and operations would be less than significant. No mitigation is required.
4.2.2.3 Cumulative Impacts
As defined in Section 15130 of the State CEQA Guidelines, cumulative impacts are the incremental effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past, current, and probable future projects within the cumulative impact area for air quality.The cumulative study area analyzed for potential air quality impacts is the Basin. Each project in the Basin is required to comply with SCAQMD rules and regulations and is subject to independent review.
The Basin is currently designated as a nonattainment area for the federal 03 standard and PM2.5 standard and as a nonattainment area for the State 03, PM10, and PM2.5 standards.Thus,the Basin has not met the federal and State standards for these air pollutants. Future development that may occur with implementation of the project would contribute criteria pollutants to the area during project construction and operation.
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Air pollution is inherently a cumulative type of impact measured across an air basin.The proposed project would have a cumulatively considerable impact if project-generated emissions would exceed thresholds for NOx,VOCs, PM10, and/or PM2.5. If the proposed project does not exceed thresholds and is determined to have less than significant project-specific impacts, it may still have a cumulatively considerable impact on air quality and GHG if the emissions from the project, in combination with emissions from other proposed or reasonably foreseeable future projects, are in excess of established thresholds. However,the proposed project would be considered to have a cumulative impact only if its contribution accounts for a significant portion of the cumulative total emissions.
The project would contribute criteria pollutants to the area during construction. A number of individual projects in the area may be under construction simultaneously with the proposed project.
Depending on construction schedules and actual implementation of projects in the area, generation of fugitive dust and pollutant emissions during construction could result in substantial short-term increases in air pollutants. However, each project would be required to comply with the SCAQMD standard construction measures.The proposed project's short-term construction CO, NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions would not exceed the LSTs.The proposed project's operational emissions would not exceed the LSTs.Therefore, construction and operation of the proposed project would have a less than significant impact with regard to regional and localized emissions. Cumulative impacts would be considered less than significant.
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4.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
This section describes the potential impacts to biological resources that may result from construction and operation of the proposed project. Information in this section is based on the following site-specific biological resource studies:
• Biological Resources Technical Report Villa Serena Specific Plan (Tract No. 20245) Project,Aspen Environmental Group,January 2023 (Appendix D-1)
• San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat and California Gnatcatcher Habitat Assessment for a 26.3 acre parcel located in Upland,San Bernardino County, California, Origin Biological,January 10, 2023 (Appendix D-2)
• Villa Serena Specific Plan;Nesting Bird and California Gnatcatcher Habitat Assessment, Dugan Biological Services, May 10, 2023 (Appendix D-3)
• Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Villa Serena Specific Plan(Tract No. 20245)Project,Aspen Environmental Group,September 2023 (Appendix D-4)
4.3.1 Methodology
The impact analysis presented in this section evaluates potential direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the proposed project on biological resources and habitats within the project site and considers whether the proposed project would conflict with relevant plans, policies, or regulations contained in applicable planning documents adopted by the City and other agencies for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect that could cause a significant environmental impact or would result in an environmental impact to biological resources.This section also evaluates the proposed project's consistency with applicable habitat conservation plans and policies. Under this approach, a policy or program conflict is not in and of itself considered a significant environmental impact.An inconsistency between the proposed project and an applicable plan is a legal determination that may or may not indicate the likelihood of an environmental impact. In some cases, an inconsistency may result in an underlying physical impact that is significant and adverse.
4.3.1.1 Literature Review
The biological resource reports (Appendices D-1 through D-4) include a literature review of the following sources to identify special-status biological resources known from the vicinity of the project site:
• United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC)for the project site
• California Natural Diversity Database for the following 7.5-minute Unites State Geological Survey topographic quads within 5 miles of the project site: Mt. Baldy, Ontario, Glendora,San Dimas, Guasti, Cucamonga Peak, Yorba Linda, Prado Dam, and Corona North • CNPS Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California for the topographic quads listed above.
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4.3.1.2 Biological Resources Surveys and Habitat Assessments Site-specific field surveys, biological resources surveys (Appendix D-1), protocol-level surveys for California gnatcatcher and San Bernardino kangaroo rat (Appendix D-2), nesting birds (Appendix D- 3), and aquatic resources (see Appendix D-4)were conducted on following dates:
• General Biological Resource Surveys:January 25, February 16, March 16,April 3, and April 22, 2022 (RCA Associates)
• Botanical Survey/Vegetation Mapping/General Wildlife Surveys:June 4 and August 15, 2022 (Aspen Environmental Group)
• California Gnatcatcher/San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat Surveys:June 3 and July 1, 2022 and January 9, 2023 (Origin Biological)
• California Gnatcatcher/Nesting Bird Survey:April 16, 2023 (Dugan Biological Services) • Aquatic Resources Survey:June 24 and August 15, 2022 (Aspen Environmental Group)
4.3.1.3 Waters and Wetlands Delineation
The assessment of jurisdictional wetlands, waters of the United States, waters of the State, and other jurisdictional habitats was conducted on June 24 and August 15, 2022. A review of current and historic aerial photographs, the San Bernardino County Soil Survey, and the local and State hydric soil list databases was conducted prior to the field assessment to evaluate the potential active channels and wetland features of the project site.
Site maps were generated with available aerial photographs and potentially jurisdictional features were identified and marked with lines and GPS coordinates to assist in field verification. Vegetation and hydrology were mapped using an Arrow GPS unit and identified on aerial photographs. Field maps were digitized using GIS, and total State and federal jurisdictional areas were calculated.
Representative site photos were captured during the survey and are included in the Aquatic Resources Delineation Report (ARDR) (see Appendix D-4.).
4.3.2 Setting
The project site consists of the following components:
• An undeveloped, 9.16-acre portion of the 15th Street flood control basin on the northeast corner of the intersection of Fernando Avenue and East 15th Street.This area is planned for the development of 65 single-family residences, private community facilities, and ancillary features. • A 6.85-acre area within the 15th Street flood control basin that is outside, but directly east of, the residential development footprint. The project site is currently mapped in the National Wetland Inventory as freshwater emergent wetland and as freshwater pond habitat.
Modifications to this portion of the basin (see Section 3.3.4 and Figure 3.8) will accommodate appropriate stormwater and flood control capacity.
• A 4.29-acre "conservation area" at the extreme eastern boundary of the basin. This portion of the existing basin will remain unaffected by project activities. As detailed on the precise grading plan prepared for the project, no work, access, or storage is allowed within this area.
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• A 0.78 acre off-site for the construction of the 15th Street extension and a public 'pocket park' near the north end of Fernando Avenue.
Surrounding land consists of a mix of land uses, including residential, public, and recreational areas (Upland Hills Country Club).The project site is currently used as flood control basin (see Figure 4.3-1).
4.3.2.1 Vegetation
Vegetation within the project site consists of riparian and wetland vegetation, upland vegetation, and other land cover types. Species observed include mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), marsh purslane (Ludwigia peploides), California buckwheat(Eriogonum fasciculatum), coastal sage brush (Artemisia californica), scale broom (Lepidospartum squamatum), and black sage (Salvia mellifera).The vegetation and land covers within the project site are described in detail below, and the acreages of the vegetation and land cover types are presented in Table 4.3.A and Figure 4.3-2.
Table 4.3.A: Vegetation and Other Cover Types on the Project Site Vegetation Type Development Area Conservation Area Project Site(acres) (acres) (acres)
Riparian and Wetland
Cattail marshes 0.08 0.18 0.25
Mule fat scrub - 0.17 0.17
Upland Vegetation
California buckwheat scrub 5.39 2.55 7.94
Eucalyptus—tree of heaven—black locust groves 0.89 0.64 1.53 Scale broom scrub 0.14 - 0.14
Other Cover Types
Developed 11.30 0.74 12.04
Total 17.79 4.29 22.08
Source:Table 1,Biological Resources Technical Report((Aspen Environmental Group January 2023a).
Note:"Project Site"includes the area for residential development,basin modification,off-site improvements,and the"conservation area.""Development Area"includes the area for residential development,basin modification,and off-site improvements only.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) ranks sensitive natural communities involving the knowledge of range and distribution of a given type of vegetation, and the proportion of occurrences that are of good ecological integrity.Threats and trends are likely considered in categories such as residential and commercial development, agriculture, energy production and mining, and invasive and other problematic species and genes (among others).Threat scope and severity are used to calculate an overall threat score, which is added to the overall rarity score for a single rank of 1 through 5. Evaluation is done at both the Global (full natural range within and outside of California) and State (within California) levels resulting in a single G (global) and S (state) rank ranging from 1 (very rare and threatened) to 5 (demonstrably secure). Natural communities with ranks of S1 to S3 are considered sensitive natural communities for the purposes of CEQA.1 1 California Department of Fish and Wildlife.2023. Natural Communities.Website:
https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/VegCAMP/Natural-Communities(accessed September 2023). \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-3
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-Project Site Boundary
-Residential Development Area
-Conservation Area
-Modified Basin
0 312.5 625 -15th St Extension and Public Improvements Villa Serena Specific Plan FEET
SOURCE:Google Earth,2023 Project Site Overview I:\TC12201\G\Proj_Site_Overview.ai (2/16/2024) Page 909 of 3744
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SOURCE:Aquatic Resources Delineation Report,Aspen Environmental,September 2023 I:\TC12201\G\Vegetation_Land_Cover.ai(2/16/2024)
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Riparian and Wetland Vegetation Types.
Cattail Marshes. The project site contains 0.08 acre of Cattail marsh habitat.This habitat is dominated by broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), but other species such as marsh purslane (Ludwigia peploides), watercress (Nasturtium officinale), seep monkeyflower(Mimulus guttatus), Dallis grass (Paspalum dilatatum), cocklebur(Xanthium strumarium), and Spanish sunflower(Pulicaria paludosa) are also present. Cattail marshes are present in the low-lying portions of the project site that accumulate runoff and storm flows from the adjacent golf course and watershed. Cattail marshes have a State Rank of S5 and are not recognized as a sensitive natural community by the CDFW.
Mule Fat Thickets. The project site does not contain Mule fat thicket habitat; however, it is present within the adjacent conservation area.This habitat is dominated by mule fat, but other species such as Gooding's black willow (Salix gooddingii), Chinese elms (Ulmus parvifolia), and California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) are also present.The mule fat thickets are present along the northern and southern edges of the basin floor. Mule fat thickets have a State Rank of S4 and are not recognized as a sensitive natural community by the CDFW.
Upland Vegetation Types. California Buckwheat Scrub. The project site contains 0.69 acre of California buckwheat scrub habitat. California buckwheat dominates this habitat, but other species such as pine brush (Ericameria pinifolia), broom baccharis (Baccharis sarothroides), coastal sage brush, black sage, showy penstemon (Penstemon spectabilis), and holly leaf cherry(Prunus ilicifolia) are also present. California buckwheat has a State Rank of S5, and the CDFW does not recognize it as a sensitive natural community.
Eucalyptus—Tree of Heaven—Black Locust Groves. The project site contains 0.37 acre of Eucalyptus—tree of heaven—black locust groves habitat.This habitat is dominated by non- native trees such as gum trees (Eucalyptus spp.), crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica),goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria bipinnata), and others. Native tree species such as California sycamore and coast live oak are also present but generally represent single trees and not a continuous canopy.
Eucalyptus—tree of heaven—black locust groves have a State Rank of SNA(Not Applicable) and the CDFW does not recognize them as sensitive natural communities.
Scale Broom Scrub. The project site contains 0.14 acre of scale broom scrub habitat.This habitat is dominated by scale broom, but other species such as California buckwheat and deerweed (Acmispon glaber) are present in low numbers. Scale broom scrub is present on one slope within the project site. Scale broom scrub has a State Rank of S3 and is recognized as a sensitive natural community by the CDFW.
Other Cover Types.
Developed. The project site contains 7.86 acres of disturbed and developed areas,which includes unpaved roads, drainage structures, and unvegetated slopes and basin floors. Sparse vegetation is present and includes weedy species such as wild oat (Avena spp.), ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus), red brome (Bromus rubens), mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), and tocalote (Centaurea melitensis). "Developed" is not a vegetation type and the CDFW does not recognize it as a sensitive natural community.
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4.3.2.2 Wildlife
Wildlife observed during the field surveys included species common in the region, including:
• Western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis)
• Black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans)
• Lesser goldfinch (Spinus psaltria)
• House finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)
• Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura)
• Coyote (Canis latrans)
• California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) • Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
• Great egret (Ardea alba)
• Great blue heron (Ardea herodias)
• Common yellow throat (Geothlypis trichas)
• Pacific chorus frog(Pseudacris regilla)
• Western toads (Anaxyrus boreas)
• Bobcats (Lynx rufus)
• Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
• Opossum (Didelphis marsupialis)
• Striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis)
• Desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii)
4.3.3 Special-Status Species
Plant and wildlife taxa are considered to be special-status species if they are listed as endangered, threatened (or a candidate for or species proposed for listing) under the California (CESA) or federal Endangered Species Act (FESA). Plants or wildlife may also be ranked as special-status species due to declining populations, vulnerability to habitat change, or restricted distributions. Other species may have not been listed, but declining populations or habitat availability cause concern for their long- term viability.These species of conservation concern appear on lists compiled by resource agencies or private conservation organizations.
4.3.3.1 Plant Species
The "special-status" plant species occurring in the region in habitats similar to those found on the project site include:
• Nevin's barberry(Bereris nevinii) (federally endangered)2 • Plummer's mariposa lily (Calochortus plummerae)
• Lucky morning-glory(Calyestgia felix)
• Parry's spineflower(Chorizanthe parryi var.)
• Mesa horkelia (Horkelia cuneata var.)
• California satintail (Imperata brevifolia)
• Robinson's pepper-grass (Lepidium virginiicum var. robinsonii) 2 Bold text indicates State and/or federal listed species.
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• Southern California black walnut (Juglans californica) • White rabbit-tobacco (Pseudognaphalium luecocephalum) • Sanford's arrowhead (Sagittaria sanfordii)
Listed Threatened or Endangered Plants.3 No State or federally listed plant species are known from the project site and none were observed during the biological field surveys.
Other Special-Status Plants.Though not listed as endangered or threatened under the State or federal ESA,the CDFW and the California Native Plant Society(CNPS) maintain lists of plants of conservation concern.The plants are treated as "special-status species" and are discussed below:
• Parry's spineflower(Chorizanthe parryi var.parryi) is an annual herb endemic to southern California and occurs in Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego counties.The herb is found on sandy or rocky soils in coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, and alley and foothill grassland at elevations from 900 to 4,000 feet, and flowers from April to June.The project site contains suitable habitat for Parry's spineflower.The herb is also known from several extinct occurrences within five miles of the project site.Although there is a low to moderate potential for this species to germinate and be present in the project site in a year with above average rainfall,this species was not detected during the biological field surveys.
• Southern California black walnut (Juglans californica) and Robinson's pepper-grass(Lepidium verginicum var.robinsonii) have at least a moderate potential to occur on the project site. Both species are known from within five miles of the project site. Neither of these species were detected on-site during biological field surveys.
4.3.3.2 Animal Species
The "special-status" animal species occurring in the region in habitats similar to those found on the project site include (note: bold text indicates State and/or federal listed species):
• Crotch's bumble bee (Bombus crotchii)
• Monarch butterfly(Danus plexippus pop 1) (candidate—federally endangered,overwintering sites only)4
• Southern California legless lizard (Anniella stebbinsi) • Coastal whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri)
• Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii)
• Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii)
• Tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) (California threatened)4 • Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) • Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
• Burrowing owl (Athene cunnicularia)
• Swainson's hawk(Buteo swainsonii) (California threatened)4 3 Aspen Environmental. 2023a. Biological Resources Technical Report,Table 2.January. 4 Bold text indicates State and/or federal listed species. \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-11
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• White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus)
• California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia) • Merlin (Wingardium leviosa)
• Yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens)
• Coastal California gnatcatcher(Polioptila californica californica) (federally threatened)4 • Yellow warbler(Setophaga petechia)
• Least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) (federally and California endangered)4 • Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus)
• Western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis californicus)
• Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus)
• Western yellow bat (Lasiurus zanthinus)
• San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit(Lepus californicus bennettii) • Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis)
• San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intemedia) • Pocketed tree-tailed bat (Nyctinomops femorosaccus) • Big free-tailed bat (Nyctininmops macrotis)
Listed Threatened or Endangered Wildlife.The project site supports habitat for four listed'species and one candidate species with at least a moderate potential to be present on the project site. None of these species are known from the project site or were identified on-site during biological resource field surveys.These species include:
• Least Bell's vireo(Vireo bellii pusilus) is a small songbird that nests in riparian vegetation throughout much of southern California. It is listed as endangered under both the federal ESA and the CESA. Least Bell's vireo are known to nest at the Cucamonga Basin, 0.7 mile north of the project site. Suitable riparian habitat for Least Bell's vireo is present on the project site, although there is a low potential for the species to be present.This species was not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys.
• Coastal California gnatcatcher(Polioptila californica californica) is a small bird that occurs in coastal areas of southern California from Ventura County, inland to the Santa Clarita area, Banning area, and southward through northwestern Baja California. It is listed as threatened under the FESA. Coastal California gnatcatcher are known to occur in larger intact patches of sage scrub near Puddingstone Reservoir and within the North Etiwanda Preserve, both more than seven miles from the project site.The nearest designated critical habitat for Coastal California gnatcatcher is located near Puddingstone Reservoir, approximately seven miles west of the project site. Coastal California gnatcatcher have a low potential to be present on the project site.This species was not observed on site during biological resource field surveys. • Swainson's Hawk(Buteo swainsoni) is a large bird that nests in the San Joaquin Valley, western Antelope Valley, and Owens Valley. It is listed as threatened under the CESA. Swainson's hawks migrate along the Pacific flyway south to South America every fall and return to California every • Listed=designated as a candidate,threatened or endangered under either the federal or California Endangered Species Act.
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spring. Several Swainson's hawks have been observed in the vicinity of the project site during migration. The project site is outside of the breeding range of Swainson's hawks, but individuals may migrate over the area biannually. There is a moderate potential for Swainson's hawks to be present on the project site during migration periods. This species was not identified on site during any of the biological resource surveys.
• Tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) is a small bird that nests in emergent marshland vegetation such as cattails (Typha sp.) and tules (Schoenoplectus sp.). It is listed as threatened under the CESA.Tricolored blackbirds have been observed at Puddingstone Reservoir and throughout the Chino Basin.Tricolored blackbirds have not been observed on the project site, but the project site does provide limited nesting habitat and suitable foraging habitat.There is a moderate potential for tricolored blackbirds to forage and low potential for nesting within the project site.
• Overwintering populations of monarch butterfly(Danaus plexippus pop. 1) in California are a candidate for federal listing under the ESA, but the listing would only protect the overwintering sites and not the individual butterflies or their food plants. Monarchs and their food plants are widespread in California,though the project site does not contain milkweed. Winter roost sites of monarchs extend along the coast from northern Mendocino to Baja California and are generally located in wind-protected tree groves (eucalyptus, Monterey pine, cypress), where microclimatic conditions are very similar to that in central Mexico, with nectar and water sources nearby. Overwintering populations in San Diego, Grover Beach, Pacific Grove, and Santa Cruz, are 91 miles southeast and 185, 297, and 316 miles northwest, respectively.6 Although monarchs have a high potential to be present on the project site, the project site is too far inland to support winter roosting habitat.
Species Protected Under the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.Bald eagles and golden eagles are observed periodically in the region but are not expected to utilize the project site for nesting due to the absence of suitable nesting habitat. Bald eagles are not expected to forage on the site due to the lack of suitable prey items. Golden eagles also have a low potential to forage on the site due to the limited foraging area and the limited amount of prey items. Neither species was observed on-site during biological resource field surveys.
California Wildlife Species of Special Concern.The following California Wildlife Species of Special Concern have the potential to occur on the project site:
• Coastal whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri) are found in coastal southern California, mostly west of the Peninsular Ranges and south of the Transverse Ranges. Coastal whiptail ranges 6 Monarchs living west of the Rocky Mountains in North America overwinter in California along the Pacific Coast near Santa Cruz and San Diego. Here microclimatic conditions are very similar to those in central Mexico. Monarchs roost in eucalyptus,Monterey pines,and Monterey cypresses in California.See https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/ pollinators/Monarch Butterfly/migration/index.shtml
The western population of migrating monarchs overwinters in coastal sites in central and southern California,United States,notably in Pacific Grove,Santa Cruz,and Grover Beach.See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarch_ butterfly_migration
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north into Ventura County and south to Baja California. Coastal whiptail were observed at three locations within the project site and are expected to occur throughout the project site. • Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) are uncommon throughout much of Southern California but are periodically observed in the Inland Empire, with the highest local concentrations near Ontario, approximately 5 miles southeast of the project site.This species nests mainly in rodent burrows, usually in open grassland or shrubland; it forages in open habitat. Suitable burrowing owl burrows are present on the project site. Despite marginally suitable habitat for burrowing owl, the project site contains a sufficient prey base and an abundant ground squirrel population (for producing burrows). While not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys, there is a moderate potential for breeding or wintering burrowing owls to be present on the site.
• Yellow-breasted chat(Icteria virens) occur in California only during the breeding season between April and August and is scarce in the central and southern portions of the State.
Yellow-breasted chat are known to nest at Cucamonga Basin, 0.7 mile north of the project site.
Although this species was not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys, marginally suitable riparian habitat for yellow-breasted chat habitat is present and there is a moderate potential for yellow-breasted chat to be present on the project site. • Yellow warbler(Setophaga petechia)occurs in California only during the breeding season between April and August, in riparian habitats throughout the State.Yellow warbler have not been previously detected on the project site but are known from several locations within 1 mile of the project site. Although this species was not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys, suitable habitat is present throughout the project site, and there is a moderate potential for them to be present.
• San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia) occurs in coastal and desert scrub and rocky outcrops throughout much of southern California. Although this species was not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys, the project site contains suitable habitat for the species, which has been documented within five miles of the project site. • Cooper's hawk(Accipiter cooperii) nest in forest and woodland habitat and hunts in woods and open areas. Cooper's hawks breed through most of the United States and winters south through Mexico.The project site contains suitable nesting habitat, and one individual was observed foraging on the project site.
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• Pallid bat(Antrozous pallidus),Western mastiff bat(Eumops perotis californicus), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus),Western yellow bat(Lasiurus xanthinus),Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), big free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis), and pocketed free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops femorosaccus) have at least a low potential to forage over the project site.The pallid bat and Western mastiff bat forage in open areas over grasslands, agricultural areas, and other shrublands and roost in a variety of habitats including buildings, rock crevices, and caves.
The pocketed free-tailed bat forages over water and open shrublands and roosts in crevices in cliffs. Hoary bats may roost in tree foliage within the project site.The remaining species are unlikely to roost in the project site due to a lack of suitable roosting habitat. These species were not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys.
Other Special-Status Wildlife.The following special-status species also have the potential to occur on the project site:
• Crotch bumble bee (Bombus crotchii)was recently petitioned for listing under the CESA but was determined to not be eligible for protection under CESA. It is currently recognized as a special animal but may be petitioned again in the future based on a recent interpretation of CESA, which indicates that some invertebrates may be eligible for protection. Crotch bumble bee is typically found in openings in grassland and scrub habitats. Crotch bumble bees feed on native plants including milkweed, pincushion, lupine, phacelia, sage, snapdragon, clarkia, bush poppy, and buckwheat. Many of these food plants are present on the project site and suitable burrowing habitat is also present. Crotch bumblebee has a moderate potential to be present on the site and is known from numerous observations in the region. • Cooper's hawk(Accipiter cooperii) and white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) are known to nest in and around urban areas of southern California and forage in open space. Suitable nesting habitat for these species is limited and foraging habitat for these species is present within the project site. A single Cooper's hawk was observed flying over the project site during the biological resource field survey.The white-tailed kite was not observed on-site. • Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow(Aimophila ruficeps canescens) and California horned lark(Eremophila alpestris actia) were not observed on the project site during field surveys.These species are known from throughout the region and are likely to forage on the project site but are not expected to nest on the project site due to the lack of suitable nesting habitat. Neither species was observed on-site during biological resource field surveys. • Allen's hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin), Bullock's oriole(Icterus bullockii),California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum),common yellowthroat(Geothlypis trichas sinuosa), Lawrence's goldfinch (Carduelis lawrencei), Nuttall's woodpecker(Picoides nuttallii), and oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus) are Birds of Conservation Concern and were also identified in the USFWS IPaC search.These do not have any formal protection under FESA or CESA. Although these species have a potential to be present,they were not observed on-site during the biological resource field surveys.
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4.3.4 On-Site Delineation
The assessment of jurisdictional wetlands, waters of the United States, waters of the State, and other jurisdictional habitats was conducted by June 24 and August 15, 2022 (Aspen Environmental).
One category of jurisdictional feature, CDFW jurisdictional streambeds, was documented within the project site. Because the four, man-made features (see Figure 4.3-3) are ephemeral in nature and due to the general absence of downstream connectivity to traditional navigable waters, these features are not expected to fall under United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)jurisdiction.
Because these features are wholly man-made artificial stormwater management basins', they are not expected to fall under the jurisdiction of the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Table 4.3.B summarizes the results of the project-specific delineation'.
Table 4.3.B: Jurisdictional Waters and Wetlands within the Project Site USACE Waters of Santa Ana RWQCB CDFW
the US Waters of the State Data Sheet Cowardin Dominant Jurisdictional Drainage
Area Length Area Length Number Classification Vegetation Streambeds (acres) (ft) (acres) (ft) (acres) Wetland 1&1 R4SB Cattail Marsh 0.08 OHWM 1
2 - - - - N/A R4SB Cattail Marsh 0.02 3 - - - - N/A R4SB Cattail Marsh 1.32 4 - - - - N/A R4SB Cattail Marsh 1.48* Total - - - - - - - 2.9 Source:Aquatic Resources Delineation Report(Aspen Environmental Group 2023b) *no changes in this stream resource anticipated
CDFW=California Department of Fish and Wildlife OHWM=ordinary high water mark ft=feet RWQCB=Regional Water Quality Control Board N/A=not applicable USACE=United States Army Corps of Engineers Drainage 1 is a small, isolated man-made drainage feature at the west end of the project site near a storm drain intake. Drainage 1 was mapped as a cattail-marsh CDFW streambed, dominated by species such as castor bean,jungle grass, umbrella sedges, and Dallis grass.At the time of the delineation,this drainage was completely dry but did have a defined ordinary high-water mark (OHWM).This drainage was not mapped as USACE "waters of the United States", as it appears to be ephemeral and conveys collected stormwater via sheet flow during storm events from immediately adjacent areas. Drainage 1 does not appear to receive flows from the eastern portion of the site.
This drainage contains 0.08 acre of CDFW stream resources and is mapped as a freshwater emergent wetland in the National Wetlands Inventory.
As part of the Area-wide Urban Storm Water Runoff Management Program permitted by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (see page 4,Appendix D-4.) s Per the California Gnatcatcher Habitat Assessment(see Appendix D-2), "...There was pooled water present and hydric vegetation at the base of the larger culvert"on the western portion of the basin.
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L SA LEGEND FIGURE 4.3-3
-Project Site Boundary
0 250 500 Villa Serena Specific Plan FEET Jurisdictional Resources
SOURCE:Aquatic Resources Delineation Report,Aspen Environmental,September 2023 -1- 21-61.-3/44
i:V1c12201\G\iurisdictional_Resources.ai(2/16/2024)
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Drainage 2 is small, incised isolated drainage feature just east of Drainage 1. Drainage 2 is mapped as a cattail marsh dominated by species such as marsh purslane, Spanish sunflower, and willow-herb and was mapped as a CDFW Streambed. It receives flows from a concrete-lined swale to the north of the drainage that receives runoff from the adjacent golf course. At the time of the survey, Drainage 2 had no surface water present, but the soil was wet.The drainage was approximately 2 feet lower than the surrounding basin floor, creating an OHWM; however,flows do not appear to fill Drainage 2 to the point of allowing surface connectivity with Drainage 1 to the west.This drainage contains 1.32 acres of CDFW streambed and is mapped as a freshwater emergent wetland in the National Wetlands Inventory.
Drainage 3 is an isolated drainage feature near the center of the project site. Drainage 3 is largely mapped as a cattail marsh dominated by species such as broadleaf cattail, water speedwell, common plantain, and annual sunflower and was mapped as a CDFW Streambed. It receives flows from two concrete-lined swales to the north that receive runoff from the adjacent golf course.At the time of the survey, Drainage 3 had no surface water present, but the soil was wet. An earthen berm that is present in the basin floor prevents flows from Drainage 3 from flowing west towards Drainages 1 and 2.The drainage contains 0.02 acre of stream resources and is primarily mapped as freshwater emergent wetland in the National Wetlands Inventory.
Drainage 4 is an isolated drainage feature at the east end of the project site. Drainage 4 is mapped as a cattail marsh dominated by species such as broadleaf cattail, water speedwell, spearmint, and annual sunflower and is mapped as a CDFW Streambed. It receives flows from three concrete-lined swales, one to the northeast, one to the southeast, and one to the north, each of which conveys runoff from the surrounding golf courses and residential development. At the time of the survey, Drainage 4 had no surface water present, but the soil was wet. High ground in the basin floor prevents flows from Drainage 4 to flow west towards Drainages 1, 2, and 3. No change to this drainage will take place during construction of the proposed residential uses or the modification of the basin.This feature is primarily mapped as freshwater emergent wetland in the National Wetlands Inventory.
The aforementioned stream resources on the western portion (9.16 acres) of the 15th Street Flood Basin would be filled to accommodate the residential development, and the existing basin infrastructure would be relocated to the eastern portion of the basin that is still owned, operated, and controlled by the City to maintain flood control and retention operations.
4.3.5 Regulatory Framework
Policies and regulations that potentially apply to the biological resources associated with the proposed project are listed below. Any impacts that conflict with these policies and regulations could be considered significant under CEQA.
Federal Regulations.The following federal regulations would be applicable to the proposed project.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act Section 404 of the CWA regulates the discharge of dredged material, placement of fill material, or certain types of excavation within "waters of the United States" and authorizes the Secretary of the Army,through the Chief of Engineers,to issue \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-19
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permits for such actions.The CWA defines "waters of the United States" as "rivers, creeks, streams, and lakes extending to their headwaters and any associated wetlands".The CWA defines wetlands as "areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.The USACE has adopted several revisions to its regulations to clearly define "waters of the United States". Due to on-going changes in policy as of 2022, ephemeral drainages are treated as jurisdictional waters of the United States for the purposes of this analysis.
Porter Cologne Water Quality Control Act and Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. The Regional Water Quality Control Boards regulate activities affecting "waters of the State" according to the Porter Cologne Water Quality Control Act and Section 401 of the federal CWA.
The Porter-Cologne Act defines waters of the State as all surface and subsurface waters.The RWQCBs may issue permits or may issue a waiver for a given application. The project site is within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Santa Ana RWQCB.
Section 401 of the CWA requires that any applicant for a federal permit for activities that involve a discharge to "waters of the State" shall provide the Federal permitting agency a certification from the State in which the discharge is proposed that states that the discharge will comply with the applicable provisions under the Federal CWA.Therefore, before the USACE may issue a Section 404 permit, a permittee must apply for and receive a Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the RWQCB, Santa Ana Region.The RWQCB may add conditions to its certification to remove or mitigate potential impacts to water quality standards.
United States Endangered Species Act The USFWS, pursuant to FESA, protects endangered and threatened species. FESA defines an endangered species as a species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant part of its range and a threatened species as one that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. USFWS also identifies species proposed for listing as endangered or threatened. Other than for federal actions,there is no formal protection for candidate species under FESA. However, consultation with USFWS regarding species proposed for listing can prevent project delays that could occur if a species is listed prior to project completion.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)governs the take, possession, import, export, transport, selling, purchasing, or bartering of migratory birds and their eggs, parts, and nests. Section 704 of the MBTA states that the United States Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to determine if, and by what means, the take of migratory birds should be allowed and to adopt suitable regulations permitting and governing take while ensuring that take is compatible with protection of the species. The MBTA protects most bird species.
Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act The federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) prohibits the taking of bald and golden eagles. The BGEPA defines "take"to include "pursuing, shooting, shooting at, poisoning,wounding, killing, capturing,trapping, collecting, molesting, and disturbing."The USFWS further defines "disturb" as "to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that causes, or is likely to cause, based on the best scientific
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information available, (1) injury to an eagle, (2) a decrease in its productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior, or(3) nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior." State Regulations.The following State regulations would be applicable to the proposed project.
California Fish and Game Code—Nesting Birds and Raptors Under the California Fish and Game Code, it is unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy any bird or the nests or eggs of any bird species except as otherwise provided in the California Fish and Game Code and its regulations. This code also specifically protects raptors, including owls.The CDFW considers a disturbance that results in nest abandonment or loss of reproductive effort as take.
Disturbances of active nesting territories should be avoided during the nesting season.
California Fish and Game Code—Section 1602 Section 1602 requires any person, State, or local governmental agency, or public utility which proposes a project that will substantially divert or obstruct the natural flow or substantially charge the bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake, or use materials from a streambed, or result in the disposal or deposition of debris, waste, or other material containing crumbled,flaked, or ground pavement where it can pass into any river, stream, or lake,to first notify the CDFW of the proposed Project. Notification is generally required for any project that will take place in or in the vicinity of a river, stream, lake, or their tributaries.This includes rivers or streams that flow at least periodically or permanently through a bed or channel with banks that support fish or other aquatic life and watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that support or have supported riparian vegetation. Based on the notification materials submitted,the CDFW will determine if the proposed project may impact fish or wildlife resources. If the CDFW determines that a proposed project may substantially adversely affect existing fish or wildlife resources, a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement(SAA) will be required.A completed CEQA document must be submitted to CDFW before a SAA will be issued.
California Endangered Species Act. The CDFW,through provisions of the California Administrative Code and policies formulated by the California Fish and Game Commission, regulates plant and animal species in danger of, or threatened with, extinction based on the list of endangered,threatened, and candidate species developed by the Fish and Game Commission. Endangered species are native species or subspecies of plants and animals that are in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant part of their range.
Threatened species are those species that, although not presently threatened with extinction, are likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future without special protection and management. Candidate species are species that the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under review for addition to the list of endangered or threatened species or as a species proposed for listing.
Lake and Streambed Alteration Program Sections 1600 et seq. of the California Fish and Game Code define the responsibilities of the CDFW and require public and private applicants to obtain an agreement for projects that would "... divert, obstruct, or change the natural flow or bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake designated by the CDFW in which there is at any time an existing fish or wildlife resource or from which those resources derive benefit, or would \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-21
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use material from the streambed designated by the department." CDFW wardens and/or unit biologists typically have the responsibility for formulating and issuing Streambed Alteration Agreements.The CDFW,through provisions of the Code (Sections 1601-1603), is empowered to issue agreements for any alteration of a river, stream, or lake where fish or wildlife resources may be adversely affected. Streams (and rivers) are defined by the presence of a channel bed and banks, and at least an intermittent flow of water.The CDFW regulates wetland areas only to the extent that those wetlands are part of a river, stream, or lake as defined by the CDFW.
Local Regulations.The following local regulations would be applicable to the proposed project.
City of Upland General Plan. The City of Upland's General Plan is the guiding document for development within the City. the following goals, policies, and programs are identified in the City's General Plan and are relevant to resource conservation for the proposed project:
• Goal OSC-1: Upland's natural resources such as open space, wildlife and vegetation, are protected and enjoyed as limited and valuable resources and integral parts of a sustainable environment
o Policy OSC-1.1: Resource Preservation. Preserve open space and habitat areas by promoting conservation and preservation easements that protect habitat areas, habitat corridors, and sensitive biological resources.
o Policy OSC-1.4: Regulatory Protection. Ensure that new development meets all federal, State, and regional regulations for habitat and species protection. o Policy OSC-1.5: New Development. Encourage new development to preserve on-site natural elements and incorporate low impact development techniques.
City of Upland Municipal Code. Section 12.24.100 of the Upland Municipal Code requires a permit for removal of any trees from parkways or parking strips. Additionally, Section 12.26 includes performance standards and regulations for the operations, planting, proper maintenance, removals, preservation, and protection of heritage trees in the City's right-of-way.
4.3.6 Impacts and Mitigation Measures
This section provides an assessment of the potential impacts related to biological resources that could result from implementation of the proposed project.The section begins with the significance criteria, which establish the thresholds for determining whether an impact is significant.The latter part of this section presents potential impacts associated with implementation of the proposed project and identifies applicable mitigation measures, as appropriate.
4.3.6.1 Significance Criteria
The following thresholds of significance were adapted from Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines. Based on these thresholds, implementation of the proposed project would have a significant impact related to biological resources if it would:
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Threshold BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special- status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
Threshold BIO-2: Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
Threshold BIO-3: Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh,vernal pool, coastal, etc.)through direct removal,filling, hydrological interruption, or other means.
Threshold BIO-4: Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
Threshold BIO-5: Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance.
Threshold BIO-6: Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan.
4.3.6.2 Project Impacts
Threshold BIO-1: Candidate, Listed, Sensitive Status or Special-Status Species.
Plants. No federal-or State-listed or candidate, or special-status plant species are known to occur on the project site, and none were observed during the biological resource surveys.
Although no special-status plants were observed on the project site during the biological resource surveys, suitable habitat for Parry's spineflower is on site, although the chances of germination on the project site is very low. Southern California black walnut and Robinson's pepper-grass, both with at least a moderate potential to occur on the project site, have no formal protection under CEQA.These species were not identified on-site.
In the absence of any listed, candidate, or sensitive plant species, development of the project would not have a substantial effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any plant species identified in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW and/or the USFWS; therefore, impacts to relative to such plant species are less than significant and no mitigation is warranted.
Wildlife. Although four listed and one candidate species have the potential to occupy the project site; no federal or State listed wildlife species are known to occur on the project site, and none were observed during the biological resource surveys. • California Gnatcatcher: Focused California gnatcatcher surveys of the project were conducted on June 3 and July 1, 2022 and April 16, 2023. The habitat assessment \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-23
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determined that the site contains 0.9 acre of California buckwheat scrub on the south-facing slope north of and abutting East 15th Street in the western part of the site and an additional
8.8 acres of habitat in the eastern part of the site. Although the habitat assessment determined the site could be suitable for California gnatcatcher, due to certain habitat characteristics present on the site,the species would have a low potential to occur.These factors included (1) the site is a small,fragmented island of habitat that is surrounded by urban development, making discovery, colonization, and dispersal potentially difficult; and (2)the nearest known occurrence of California gnatcatcher is 5 miles northwest of the site, with no new records of the species occurring since 1999. Due to these conditions, and the absence of this species during the biological field surveys, project implementation would not have a substantial effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on California gnatcatcher. Impacts to this species are less than significant and no mitigation is warranted. • Least Bell's Vireo:This species is known to nest at the Cucamonga Basin, 0.7 mile north of the project site. Suitable riparian habitat for Least Bell's vireo is present on the project site; although, due to isolation and small size of this habitat,there is a low potential for the species to be present.This species was not observed on-site during biological resource field surveys. Impacts to this species are less than significant, and no mitigation is warranted. • Swainson's Hawk:This species breeds in open habitats (e.g., grasslands.)Although the project site is well outside of the breeding range of this species, Swainson's hawks have been observed in the vicinity of the project site during migration. Although the species has a moderate potential to be present during migration, this species was not observed during on- site biological resource surveys and does not exhibit the species' preferred open habitat for breeding; therefore, impacts to this species are less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
• Tricolored Blackbird:Although this species has been observed at Puddingstone Reservoir and the North Etiwanda Preserve, 9.3 and 6.8 miles from the site, respectively, it has not been observed on the project site. Within the conservation area,the project site provides a moderate and low potential for foraging and nesting, respectively. In the on-site absence of this species, impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is warranted. • Monarch (Butterfly): Overwintering populations of monarch in California are a candidate for federal listing under the ESA.The listing would only protect these overwintering sites and not individual butterflies or their food plants. Monarch and their food plants are widespread in California and although milkweed was not seen on the project site,this species was observed on-site during early summer surveys in 2022. Winter roost sites extend along the coast from northern Mendocino County to Baja California, Mexico, and roosts are generally in wind-protected tree groves.The project site is likely too far inland to support winter roosting habitat;therefore, impacts to this species would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
While not identified on site during on-site biological resource surveys,the project site has the potential to harbor special-status species;therefore, monitoring of project activities by a
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CDFW-approved biologist (designated biologist) is required. Mitigation Measure BIO-1 provides that a designated biologist must be approved and retained to conduct the required pre- construction surveys and the monitoring of project activities while Mitigation Measure BIO-3 requires pre-construction nesting bird surveys.
Two special-status wildlife species (coastal whiptail and Cooper's hawk) were observed on-site or foraging over the project site during the biological resource field surveys. • Coastal Whiptail:This species is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and impacts may be significant under CEQA. Coastal whiptail were observed at three locations within the project site and are expected to occur throughout the project site.Two of the observations were within areas of the proposed residential development, whereas one siting was within the area proposed for basin modifications. Implementation of the project would result in vegetation clearance and ground disturbance in these areas; therefore, impacts to this species are potentially significant and Mitigation Measure BIO-2, which requires relocation should this species be encountered during vegetation clearance and ground-disturbing activities. Other special-status species that have a low to moderate potential to occupy the project site have not been observed on site during biological resource surveys. Should these species occupy the site prior to project implementation,vegetation and ground disturbance may potentially impact nesting and/or foraging activities. Mitigation Measure BIO-2 would apply equally to any other special-status species encountered on site during vegetation or ground-disturbing activities.
• Cooper's Hawk:This species is on a CDFW watch list species that has no formal protection and requires impact assessment under CEQA. If nesting on site, Cooper's hawks may be impacted during on-site vegetation and/or ground disturbance activities;therefore, impacts to this species are potentially significant and Mitigation Measure BIO-3,which requires the completion of pre-construction nesting bird surveys no more than 3 days prior to the start of project activities.
Suitable habitat for other special-status wildlife species is on-site;therefore, although these species were not observed on site during biological resource field surveys, they have a potential to occur on site:
• Crotch's Bumble Bee: Crotch's bumble bee is typically found in openings in grassland and scrub habitats. Crotch's bumble bees feed on native plants including milkweed, pincushion, lupine, phacelia, sage, snapdragon, clarkia, bush poppy, and buckwheat. Many of these food plants are present on the project site, and suitable burrowing habitat is also present.
Crotch's bumble bee has a moderate potential to be present on site and is known from numerous observations in the region. Impacts associated with any vegetation removal and/or ground disturbance of areas occupied by this species would be potentially significant, and Mitigation Measure BIO-4, which requires the pre-construction survey for this species, is warranted.
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• Burrowing Owl: Burrowing owls are periodically observed in the Inland Empire with the highest local concentrations near Ontario, approximately 5 miles southeast of the project site. Suitable burrowing owl burrows are present on the project site but are limited.The habitat at the project site is marginally suitable for this species, but with a sufficient prey base and an abundant ground squirrel population (for producing burrows),there is a moderate potential for breeding or wintering burrowing owls to be present on the site. It is possible the site may be occupied by this species prior to project implementation. Impacts associated with any vegetation removal and/or ground disturbance of areas occupied by this species would be potentially significant and Mitigation Measure BIO-5,which requires the completion of burrowing owl surveys, is warranted.
Mitigation Measure BIO-1 Designated Biologist(s). At least 30 days prior to the commencement of any project activities, the applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Upland (City) that a designated and qualified biologist (or biologists) has been approved by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and has been retained to perform surveys, prepare and implement mitigation plans, and/or conduct monitoring activities.
The applicant shall provide evidence to the City that the responsibilities and authority of the designated biologist as established in the approved Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS-SBR-24938-R6 between the CDFW and the applicant
(CDFW Permittee) are maintained throughout project activities.
Mitigation Measure BIO-2 Movement Out of Harm's Way.To reduce injury and mortality for the coastal whiptail, other special-status species, or wildlife not specifically referenced in the mitigation measures included in the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR),the designated biologist shall be present on site prior to and during all ground- disturbance and habitat-disturbing activities. The designated biologist shall be authorized and equipped to move out of harm's way any special-status species or other wildlife that would be injured or killed during project activities. Movement of wildlife out of harm's way should be limited to only those individuals that would otherwise by injured or killed, and individuals should be moved only as far a necessary to ensure their safety.
Mitigation Measure BIO-3 Nesting Birds.A pre-construction nesting survey shall be conducted by a CDFW-approved designated biologist at the appropriate time of day/night, during appropriate weather conditions, no more than 3 days prior to the initiation of project activities. Surveys shall encompass all suitable areas, including trees, shrubs, bare ground, burrows, cavities, and
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structures. Survey duration shall take into consideration the size of the property,the density and complexity of the habitat,the number of survey participants,the survey techniques
employed, and shall be sufficient to ensure that the data collected are complete and accurate. Pre-construction surveys shall focus on both direct and indirect evidence of nesting, including nest locations and nesting behavior(e.g., copulation, carrying of food or nest materials, nest building, removal of fecal sacks,flushing suddenly from atypically close range, agitation, aggressive interactions,feigning injury or distraction displays, or other behaviors). If a nest is suspected but not confirmed, the qualified biologist shall establish a disturbance- free buffer until additional surveys can be completed, or until the location can be inferred based on observations.The
designated biologist shall not risk failure of the nest to determine the exact location or status and will make every effort to limit the potential for nest predation as a result of the survey/monitoring efforts (e.g., limit number of surveyors, limit time spent at/near the nest, scan the site for potential nest predators before approaching, immediately depart nest area if indicators of stress or agitation are displayed). If a nest is observed but thought to be inactive,the qualified biologist shall monitor the nest for 1 hour(4 hours for raptors during the non- breeding season) prior to approaching the nest to determine its status.The designated biologist shall use their best professional judgement regarding the monitoring period and whether
approaching the nest is appropriate.
In the event an active nest is confirmed,the designated biologist shall immediately establish a conservative buffer surrounding the nest based on their best professional
judgement and experience.The buffer shall be delineated to ensure that its location is known by all persons working within the vicinity but shall not be marked in such a manner that it attracts predators. Once the buffer is established,the
designated biologist shall document baseline behavior, stage of reproduction, and existing site conditions, including vertical and horizontal distances from proposed work areas,visual or acoustic barriers, and existing level of disturbance. Following documentation of the baseline conditions, the designated biologist may choose to adjust the buffer based on site characteristics, stage of reproduction, and types of project activities proposed at/near that location.The designated biologist shall monitor the nest at the onset of project activities and at the onset of any changes in project activities (e.g., \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-27
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increase in number or type of equipment, change in equipment usage)to determine the efficacy of the buffer. If the designated biologist determines that project activities may be causing an adverse reaction, the designated biologist shall be empowered to adjust the buffer accordingly.
The designated biologist shall be on site daily to monitor all existing nests,the efficacy of the established buffers, and to document any new nesting occurrences.The designated
biologist shall document the status of all existing nests, including the stage of reproduction and the expected fledge date. If a nest is suspected to have been abandoned or failed, the designated biologist shall monitor the nest for a minimum of 1 hour(4 hours for raptors), uninterrupted, during favorable field conditions. If no activity is observed during that time,the designated biologist may approach the nest to assess the status.
Daily on-site monitoring shall continue until there is no further evidence of on-site nesting activity.
Under the direction of the designated biologist, activities to discourage nesting on the project site (including moving equipment and materials daily, covering material with tarps or fabric, and securing all open pipes and construction materials) shall be permitted.The designated biologist shall ensure that none of the materials used pose an entanglement risk to birds or other species.
The designated biologist shall prepare and submit to the CDFW and the City weekly summary reports regarding active nesting species identified on site, the discovery of any new nests,the status/outcome of any previously identified nest, the buffer distances established for each nest, and any adjustments made to established buffers. Weekly summary reports shall be submitted by the designated biologist until there is no further evidence of on-site nesting activity. The CDFW shall be notified within 24 hours if project activities result in the abandonment of or damage to a nest.
The designated biologist shall submit the results of the pre- construction nesting bird survey to the CDFW and the City prior to the commencement of project activities.
Mitigation Measure BIO-4 Crotch's Bumble Bee.The designated biologist shall conduct focused surveys within 1 year prior to vegetation removal and/or grading for the presence/absence of Crotch's bumble bee. Surveys shall be conducted during flying season (between
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March 1 and September 1)when the species is most likely to be detected aboveground by an approved designated biologist familiar with Crotch's bumble bee behavior and life history.
Surveys shall be conducted within the project site and areas adjacent to the project site where suitable habitat exists. Survey results including negative findings shall be submitted to the City and CDFW at least 30 days prior to project-related vegetation removal and/or ground-disturbing activities.
If the species is identified on site, the applicant shall provide evidence to the City that "take" coverage has been obtained from the CDFW prior to the initiation of project activities.
Mitigation Measure BIO-5 Burrowing Owl.A burrowing owl pre-construction survey shall be conducted by a CDFW approved designated biologist at the appropriate time of day/dawn, during appropriate weather conditions, and no more than 14 calendar days prior to the initiation of project construction activities.The survey shall include inspection of all burrows that exhibit typical
characteristics of owl activity such as owls themselves, burrows, and owl sign at burrow entrances, including pellets,feces or other"ornamentation",feathers, prey remains, whitewash, etc.
Survey duration shall take into consideration the size of the property,the density and complexity of the habitat,the number of survey participants,the survey techniques employed, and shall be sufficient to ensure the data collected are complete and accurate.
In the event an active or occupied burrow is confirmed,the designated biologist shall immediately establish a conservative buffer surrounding the burrow based on their best professional judgement and experience.The buffer shall be delineated to ensure that its location is known by all persons working within the vicinity but shall not be marked in such a manner that it attracts predators. Once the buffer is established,the qualified biologist shall document baseline behavior, stage of
reproduction, and existing site conditions, including vertical and horizontal distances from proposed work areas,visual or acoustic barriers, and existing level of disturbance. Following documentation of baseline conditions,the qualified biologist may choose to make adjustments to the buffer based on site
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activities and at the onset of any changes in project activities (e.g., increase in number or type of equipment, change in equipment usage)to determine the efficacy of the buffer. If the designated biologist determines that project activities may be causing an adverse reaction,the designated biologist shall be empowered to adjust the buffer accordingly.
In the event burrowing owls are detected on or adjacent to the project site and cannot be completely avoided, a Burrowing Owl Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall be submitted to the CDFW for review and approval prior to disturbance of the owl(s).The Burrowing Owl Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall include the number and location of occupied burrow sites that will be disturbed by the project; the proposed relocation, monitoring, and minimization actions; and details on adjacent or nearby suitable habitat available to owls for relocation. If no suitable habitat is available nearby for relocation, details regarding the creation of artificial burrows(numbers, locations, and types of burrows)shall be identified in the Burrowing Owl Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.The Burrowing Owl Mitigation and Monitoring Plan shall also include an impact analysis consistent with the 2012 Staff Report on Burrowing Owl
Mitigation and shall identify mitigation, including acquisition, permanent protection, and funding of mitigation lands for the loss of burrowing owl habitat.The applicant shall implement the Burrowing Owl Mitigation and Monitoring Plan following CDFW review and approval.
Mitigation Measure BIO-6 Pre-Construction Survey/Sweeps. In addition to the surveys detailed in Mitigation Measures BIO-3 (nesting birds), BIO-4 (Crotch's bumble bee), and BIO-5 (burrowing owl),the
designated biologist(s) shall conduct pre-project surveys within the project site, access route(s) and staging area(s), and an appropriate buffer surrounding those areas no more than 3 days prior to initiating project activities.
The surveys shall be conducted to identify and map special- status species, or listed species with the potential to occur on site, and any dens, burrows, nests, etc. capable of harboring a special-status or listed species.The designated biologist shall ensure that the methods used to locate, identify, map, avoid and buffer individuals or dens, burrows, or nests of individuals are appropriate and effective, including the assurance that the surveyor has attained 100 percent visual coverage of the
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entirety of the project impact areas and access routes, and an appropriate buffer surrounding those areas.
If any listed species (or sign of presence) is discovered, all project activities that could affect the listed species shall be halted. Notification shall be provided to the CDFW within 24 hours of the discovery.
The designated biologist(s) shall also conduct pre-activity sweeps within the project site (including access routes) and a 500-foot buffer surrounding the project site within 2 hours of initiating project activities.The pre-activity sweeps shall confirm and mark/map for avoidance the locations of any known
nesting bird(s) and/or special-status species and shall verify that no additional/new nesting bird(s) and/or special-status species have occupied the project areas or adjacent habitats.
If any additional/new nesting bird(s) and/or special-status species (or sign of presence) are identified within or adjacent to the project areas during the pre-activity sweep,the applicant (CDFW Permittee) shall determine whether the proposed
avoidance measures will be effective in fully avoiding impacts of the project on the identified resource(s) prior to initiating project activities. If full avoidance of listed species cannot be accomplished, the applicant (CDFW Permittee) shall postpone the project and seek appropriate authorization for those impacts.
Implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-6 will reduce impacts to special-status wildlife species to a less than significant level.
Threshold BIO-2: Riparian Habitat or Sensitive Natural Community. Per the focused California gnatcatcher survey(see Appendix D-2), narrow strips of riparian vegetation are on the northern and southern edges of the conservation areas within the eastern portion of the basin. As project activities would be prohibited in this area, no change in the extent or condition of these riparian areas would result from implementation of the project; therefore, impacts to on-site riparian areas would be less than significant and no mitigation is warranted.
As previously discussed in Section 4.3.2.1, a total of 0.14 acre of scale broom scrub is within the area planned for residential development.The scale broom scrub is limited to the north-facing basin slope and provides limited habitat value. As this vegetation type is designated a sensitive natural community, its removal would be a significant impact.
The development of the project(including basin modification) would permanently alter natural conditions within 9.16 acres proposed for residential development. Ground disturbance would further temporarily affect natural conditions within the area of the modified basin. Based on a \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-31
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preliminary SAA developed between the project Applicant (the CDFW Permittee) and the CDFW, the adverse effects on fish and wildlife resources include loss of bed or bank, change in contour of channel, soil compaction, short-and long-term release of contaminants from concrete, loss of foraging habitat, loss of riparian habitat, disruption to nesting birds and other wildlife,disruption to wildlife movement, and temporary impacts to water quality. Drainages 1 through 3 are in areas that would be filled and/or otherwise disturbed for the development of residential uses and/or during the proposed basin modification. Drainage 4 is within the conservation area at the eastern portion of the project site and would be unaffected by project activities. Pursuant to Section 1602 of the California Fish and Game Code and through development of the SAA,the CDFW has identified that development of the proposed project would permanently Section 1602 stream resources.The project's effect on stream resources is a significant impact requiring mitigation. Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-6 identify specific measures in the SAA requiring pre-construction surveys. Other provisions outlined in the SAA relate to Best Management Practices and operating characteristics required during project activities.
Mitigation Measure BIO-7 Streambed Alteration Agreement. Prior to the commencement of ground disturbance,the project applicant (the CDFW permittee) shall provide evidence to the City and the CDFW that applicable provisions outlined in the final Streambed Alteration Agreement that are not specifically included as mitigation measures in the Draft EIR have been appropriately satisfied.
Pursuant to the SAA, impacts to CDFW stream resources will be mitigated through either Mitigation Measure BIO-8 or BIO-9, which require implementation of a CDFW approved Habitat Mitigation Monitoring Plan or payment of required credits in an approved mitigation bank, respectively.
Mitigation Measure BIO-8 Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan.Within 3 months of project completion, the applicant or the City(as determined by the CDFW) shall implement the CDFW-approved Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Program (HMMP) to create 1.2 acres of mule fat scrub and to enhance 0.3 acre of wetland within 1.5 acres at the far eastern portion of the basin (the "conservation area" or "mitigation area").This area shall be maintained and managed to improve habitat quality and shall meet the success criteria established in the CDFW-approved HMMP.
As designated by the CDFW, the City, or the applicant (CDFW Permittee) shall report on the results of the maintenance and monitoring of the mitigation area pursuant to the terms of the Streambed Alteration Agreement.
OR
Mitigation Measure BIO-9 Purchase of Mitigation Bank Credits. The applicant (CDFW Permitee) shall purchase 1.5 acres of Streambed enhancement credits from CDFW-approved mitigation bank(s).The applicant
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(CDFW Permittee)shall obtain CDFW approval regarding the choice of the mitigation bank prior to credit purchase.The applicant shall provide evidence of purchase of the required credits to the City and CDFW no later than 30 days prior to initiation of project activities.
Implementation of the aforementioned mitigation measures will reduce potential impacts to sensitive natural communities to a less than significant level.
Threshold BIO-3: State or Federally Protected Wetlands.As referenced in Section 4.3.4,the four, man-made features are ephemeral in nature and, due to the general absence of downstream connectivity to traditional navigable waters,these features are not expected to fall under USACE jurisdiction. Because these features are wholly man-made artificial stormwater management basins9,they are not expected to fall under the jurisdiction of the Santa Ana RWQCB.
Drainages 1 through 3 are in areas that would be filled and/or otherwise disturbed for the development of residential uses and/or during the proposed basin modification. Drainage 4 is within the conservation area at the eastern portion of the project site and would be unaffected by project activities.The CDFW has identified that the project would permanently impact Section 1602 stream resources;therefore, the project's effect on stream resources is a significant impact requiring mitigation.
Mitigation Measure BIO-8 or BIO-9 require implementation of a Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan or purchase of mitigation credits from a CDFW approved mitigation bank, respectively.
Implementation of either measure would reduce potential impacts to State or federally protected wetlands to a less than significant level.
Threshold BIO-4:Wildlife Movement or Nursery Sites. Habitat fragmentation occurs when a single, contiguous habitat area is divided into two or more areas, or where an action isolates two or more new areas from each other. Isolation of habitat occurs when wildlife cannot move freely from one portion of the habitat to another or to/from one habitat type to another. Habitat fragmentation may occur when a portion of one or more habitats is converted into another habitat, as when scrub habitats are converted into annual grassland habitat because of frequent burning. Wildlife movement includes seasonal migration along corridors, as well as daily movements for foraging.
Examples of migration corridors may include areas of unobstructed movement for deer, riparian corridors providing cover for migrating birds, routes between breeding waters and upland habitat for amphibians, and between roosting and feeding areas for birds.
The California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project, commissioned in 2010 by the CDFW and the California department of Transportation (Caltrans), created the Essential Connectivity Map, which depicts large, relatively natural habitat blocks that support native biodiversity and areas essential for ecological connectivity between them.The map does not reflect the needs of a particular species but is based on local and regional needs for connectivity.The project site is not located within any identified Essential Habitat Connectivity areas or Natural Landscape Blocks.The project site is more 9 As part of the area-wide Urban Storm Water Runoff Management Program permitted by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (see page 4,Appendix D-4). \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.3 Biological Resources.docx«10/11/24. 4.3-33
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likely to support more localized movement with the region, with some species such as coyotes occupying the project site and radiating out into the adjacent development to forage. The project site is currently surrounded on all sides by urban/suburban development, and golf course landscapes with little to no areas that may provide connectivity to other habitat, if any, in the region.
As discussed in Section 4.3.6.2, although monarchs are widespread in California,the project site does not contain milkweed plants.The project site is too far inland to support winter roosting habitat for the monarchs. Nesting or foraging birds and burrowing owls may sometimes occur through the project site. As discussed under Threshold BIO-2, implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-3 and BIO-5 would reduce impacts to burrowing owls and nesting birds to a less than significant level.
Threshold BIO-5: Local Policies and Ordinances. Upland Municipal Code Section 12.24.100 prohibits tree removal within the City without a permit from the City Manager.The northern border of the project site contains a row of non-native trees that encroach onto the site from the adjacent golf course.Any trees to be removed during construction of the Project would occur in accordance with Section 12.24.100 of the City Municipal Code.Additionally, all street tree plantings would occur pursuant to City Municipal Code Chapter 12.26 to ensure that project implementation will not conflict with the City's policies and ordinances protecting biological resources, including any tree preservation policy or ordinance. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.
Threshold BIO-6: Habitat Conservation Plans.The City of Upland, and therefore the project site, is not located within the jurisdiction of an adopted habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan.10 Therefore, no impact would occur and no mitigation is warranted.
4.3.6.3 Cumulative Impacts
According to Section 15130 of the State CEQA Guidelines, cumulative impacts refer to incremental effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, current projects, and probable future projects. Due to the proposed project's historic and ongoing disturbance, proximity to development,few sensitive biological resources, and through compliance with local ordinances, project impacts would not result in significant cumulative effects on biological resources.
Project construction will contribute to the incremental loss of scale broom scrub in the region, including potential habitat for some special-status species. Cumulative impacts potentially include habitat fragmentation, increased edge effects, reduced habitat quality, and increased wildlife mortality. Federal, State, and local guidance provide a comprehensive approach to the regional conservation of sensitive habitat and covered species. Project compliance and consistency with USFWS, CDFW, and local regulations regarding biological resources ensure that any cumulative 10 City of Upland. 2015b.Section 8.0 Effects Found Not To Be Significant. City of Upland General Plan Final Program Environmental Impact Report.September.
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impacts to covered species are effectively mitigated. The implementation of previously identified mitigation measures would mitigate potential impacts to sensitive habitat and species that occur on the project site,therefore complying with habitat and species protection directed by the USFWS and CDFW.
A Streambed Alteration Agreement will be issued by the CDFW due to potential significant impacts to jurisdictional waters on the project site.As required by Mitigation Measures BIO-8 or BIO-9, preparation of a HMMP or payment of mitigation credits will be required to reduce impacts to wetlands to a less-than-significant level.
Focused biological resource studies have been conducted to assess potential impacts associated with development of the proposed uses. As outlined in Section 4.3.6.2, potential impacts on plant communities, sensitive wildlife species, habitat fragmentation,wildlife movement, habitat conservation plans, or local ordinances or regulations protecting biological resources are considered less than cumulatively significant.
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4.4 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
This section summarizes existing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and discusses global climate change, its causes, and the contribution of human activities.This section also estimates the likely GHG emissions that would result from construction and operational activities associated with development of the proposed project, including vehicular traffic, energy consumption, and other emission sources.This section summarizes information provided in the Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Assessment' prepared for the proposed project,which is included in Appendix C.
4.4.1 Setting
The following section describes existing GHG emissions in Upland, beginning with typical GHG types and sources, impacts of global climate change, the regulatory framework surrounding these issues, and current emission levels.
4.4.1.1 Background
The following section provides background information on GHGs and global climate change.
Global Climate Change. Global climate change is the observed increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans in recent decades.The Earth's average near-surface atmospheric temperature rose 0.6±0.2 degree Celsius or 1.1±0.4 degrees Fahrenheit in the 20th century.The prevailing scientific opinion on climate change is that most of the warming observed over the last 50 years is attributable to human activities.The increased amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other GHGs are the primary causes of the human-induced component of warming. GHGs are released by the burning of fossil fuels, land clearing, agriculture, and other activities, and lead to an increase in the greenhouse effect.'GHGs are present in the atmosphere naturally, are released by natural sources, or form from secondary reactions taking place in the atmosphere.The following gases are widely seen as the principal contributors to human-induced global climate change:
• CO2
• Methane (CH4)
• Nitrous oxide (N20)
• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
• Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
• Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)
Over the last 200 years, humans have caused substantial quantities of GHGs to be released into the atmosphere. These extra emissions are increasing GHG concentrations in the atmosphere and 1 Urban Crossroads.2024.Villa Serena Specific Plan Air Quality&Greenhouse Gas Assessment. September
30. 2 The temperature on Earth is regulated by a system commonly known as the"greenhouse effect."Just as the glass in a greenhouse lets heat from sunlight in and reduces the heat escaping,GHGs like carbon dioxide, methane,and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere keep the Earth at a relatively even temperature.
Without the greenhouse effect,the Earth would be a frozen globe;thus,although an excess of GHG results in global warming,the naturally occurring greenhouse effect is necessary to keep our planet at a comfortable temperature.
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enhancing the natural greenhouse effect, which is believed to be causing global warming. While man-made GHGs include naturally occurring GHGs such as CO2, CH4, and N20, some gases, such as HFCs, PFCs, and SF6,are completely new to the atmosphere.
Certain gases, such as water vapor, are short-lived in the atmosphere. Others remain in the atmosphere for significant periods of time, contributing to climate change in the long term. Water vapor is excluded from the list of GHGs above because it is short-lived in the atmosphere and its atmospheric concentrations are largely determined by natural processes, such as oceanic evaporation. For the purposes of this air quality analysis,the term "GHGs" will refer collectively only to the six gases listed above.
These gases vary considerably in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP), which is a concept developed to compare the ability of each GHG to trap heat in the atmosphere relative to another gas.The global warming potential is based on several factors, including the relative effectiveness of a gas to absorb infrared radiation and length of time that the gas remains in the atmosphere ("atmospheric lifetime").The GWP of each gas is measured relative to CO2, which is the most abundant GHG;the definition of GWP for a particular GHG is the ratio of heat trapped by 1 unit mass of the GHG to the ratio of heat trapped by 1 unit mass of CO2 over a specified time period.
GHG emissions are typically measured in terms of pounds or tons of"CO2 equivalents" (CO2e).Table
4.4.A shows the GWP for each type of GHG. For example, sulfur hexafluoride is 23,900 times more potent at contributing to global warming than carbon dioxide.
Table 4.4.A: Global Warming Potential of Greenhouse Gases Gas Atmospheric Lifetime Global Warming Potential (Years) (100-year Time Horizon)
Carbon Dioxide(CO2) 50-200 1
Methane(CH4) 12 21
Nitrous Oxide(N20) 114 310
Hydrofluorocarbons(HFCs)
HFC-32 270 11,700
HFC-134a 14 140
HFC-152a 1.4 140
Perfluorocarbons(PFCs)
Tetrafluoromethane(CF4) 50,000 6,500
Hexafluoromethane(C2F6) 10,000 9,200
Sulfur Hexafluoride(SF6) 3,200 23,900
Source:Final Update to the Climate Change Scoping Plan:Building on the Framework(California Air Resources Board,2017).Website: www.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/ab-32-climate-change-scoping-plan/2017-scoping- plan-documents(accessed January 2023).
The following summarizes the characteristics of the six GHGs and black carbon. Black carbon also contributes to climate change and is therefore discussed below.
Carbon Dioxide. In the atmosphere, carbon generally exists in its oxidized form, as CO2. Natural sources of CO2 include the respiration (breathing) of humans, animals, and plants,volcanic out gassing, decomposition of organic matter, and evaporation from the oceans. Human-caused
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sources of CO2 include the combustion of fossil fuels and wood,waste incineration, mineral production, and deforestation. Natural sources release approximately 150 billion tons of CO2 each year,far outweighing the 7 billion tons of man-made emissions of CO2 each year.
Nevertheless, natural removal processes, such as photosynthesis by land-and ocean-dwelling plant species, cannot keep pace with this extra input of man-made CO2, and consequently,the gas is building up in the atmosphere.
In 2020,total annual CO2 accounted for approximately 80.2 percent of California's overall GHG emissions.3 Transportation is the single largest source of CO2 in California, which is primarily comprised of on-road travel. Electricity production, industrial, and residential sources also make important contributions to CO2 emissions in California.
Methane. CH4 is produced when organic matter decomposes in environments lacking sufficient oxygen. Natural sources include wetlands and oceans. Decomposition occurring in landfills accounts for the majority of human-generated CH4 emissions in California and in the United States as a whole. Agricultural processes such as intestinal fermentation in dairy cows, manure management, and rice cultivation are also significant sources of CH4 in California.Total annual emissions of CH4 accounted for approximately 10.5 percent of GHG emissions in California in 2020.
Nitrous Oxide. N20 is produced naturally by a wide variety of biological sources, particularly microbial action in soils and water.Tropical soils and oceans account for the majority of natural source emissions. N20 is a product of the reaction that occurs between nitrogen and oxygen during fuel combustion. Both mobile and stationary combustion emit N20, and the quantity emitted varies according to the type of fuel,technology, and pollution control device used, as well as maintenance and operating practices. Agricultural soil management and fossil fuel combustion are the primary sources of human-generated N20 emissions in California. N20 emissions accounted for approximately 3.5 percent of GHG emissions in California in 2020.
Hydrofluorocarbons, Perfluorocarbons, and Sulfur Hexafluoride. HFCs are primarily used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances regulated under the Montreal Protocol.4 PFCs and SF6 are emitted from various industrial processes, including aluminum smelting, semiconductor manufacturing, electric power transmission and distribution, and magnesium casting.There is no aluminum or magnesium production in California; however,the rapid growth in the semiconductor industry has resulted in greater use of PFCs. HFCs, PFCs, and SF6 accounted for about 5.5 percent of GHG emissions in California in 2020.5 3 California Air Resources Board (CARB). n.d.-a.GHGs Descriptions&Sources in California.Website:
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ghg-descriptions-sources(accessed January 2023). 4 The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty that was approved on January 1, 1989,and was designated to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of several groups of halogenated hydrocarbons believed to be responsible for ozone depletion.
S CARB. n.d.-a. GHGs Descriptions&Sources in California.Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ghg- descriptions-sources(accessed January 2023).
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Black Carbon. Black carbon is the most strongly light-absorbing component of particulate matter(PM)formed by burning fossil fuels such as coal, diesel, and biomass. Black carbon is emitted directly into the atmosphere in the form of particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in size (PM2.5) and is the most effective form of PM, by mass, at absorbing solar energy. Per unit of mass in the atmosphere, black carbon can absorb 1 million times more energy than CO2.6 Black carbon contributes to climate change both directly (e.g., absorbing sunlight) and indirectly (e.g., affecting cloud formation). However, because black carbon is short-lived in the atmosphere, it can be difficult to quantify its effect on global warming.
Most United States emissions of black carbon come from mobile sources (52 percent), particularly from diesel-fueled vehicles.'The other major source of black carbon is open biomass burning, including wildfires, although residential heating and industry also contribute.The California Air Resources Board (CARB) estimates that the annual black carbon emissions in California will be reduced approximately 50 percent below 2013 levels by 2030.8 Effects of Global Climate Change. Effects from global climate change may arise from temperature increases, climate-sensitive diseases, extreme weather events, and air quality.There may be direct temperature effects through increases in average temperature leading to more extreme heat waves and less extreme cold spells.Those living in warmer climates are likely to experience more stress and heat-related problems. Heat-related problems include heat rash and heat stroke. In addition, climate-sensitive diseases may increase, such as those spread by mosquitoes and other disease- carrying insects. Such diseases include malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and encephalitis.
Extreme events such as flooding and hurricanes can displace people and agriculture. Global climate change may also result in impacts to local air quality from increased ground-level ozone (03) and PM.9
Additionally, according to the 2006 California Climate Action Team (CAT) Report,10 the following climate change effects, which are based on trends established by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and summarized in Table 4.4.B, can be expected in California over the course of the next century:
6 United States Environmental Protection Agency(EPA).2016. Black Carbon, Basic Information. November 29.
Website: https://www3.epa.gov/airquality/blackcarbon/basic.html (accessed January 2023). ' Ibid.
$ California Air Resources Board (CARB).2017.Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy. March.
Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/final_SLCP_strategy.pdf(accessed January 2023).
9 United States Environmental Protection Agency(EPA).2022.Air Quality and Climate Change Research.
November 8.Website: https://www.epa.gov/air-research/air-quality-and-climate-change-research (accessed January 2023).
10 California Environmental Protection Agency(CalEPA). 2010.Climate Action Team Report to Governor Schwarzenegger and the California Legislature. December.
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Table 4.4.B: Potential Impacts of Global Warming and Expected Consequences for California
Potential Water Resource Impacts Anticipated Consequences Statewide Reduction of the State's average • The decline of the Sierra snowpack would lead to a loss in half of the surface water annual snowpack storage in California by 70%to 90%over the next 100 years • Potential loss of 5 million acre-feet or more of average annual water storage in the State's snowpack
• Increased challenges for reservoir management and balancing the competing concerns of flood protection and water supply
• Higher surface evaporation rates with a corresponding increase in tropospheric water vapor
Rise in average sea level • Potential economic impacts related to coastal tourism,commercial fisheries, coastal agriculture,and ports
• Increased risk of flooding,coastal erosion along the State's coastline,seawater intrusion into the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta(Delta)and levee systems Changes in weather • Changes in precipitation,ocean salinity,and wind patterns • Increased likelihood for extreme weather events,including droughts,heavy precipitation,heat waves,extreme cold,and the intensity of tropical cyclones Changes in the timing,intensity, • Potential increased storm intensity and increased potential for flooding location,amount,and variability of • Possible increased potential for droughts precipitation • Long-term changes in vegetation and increased incidence of wildfires • Changes in the intensity and timing of runoff
• Possible increased incidence of flooding and increased sedimentation • Sea level rise and inundation of coastal marshes and estuaries • Increased salinity intrusion into the Delta
• Increased potential for Delta levee failure
• Increased potential for salinity intrusion into coastal aquifers(groundwater) • Increased potential for flooding near the mouths of rivers due to backwater effects
Increased water temperatures • Increased environmental water demand for temperature control • Possible increased problems with foreign invasive species in aquatic ecosystems • Potential adverse changes in water quality,including the reduction of dissolved oxygen levels
• Possible critical effects on listed and endangered aquatic species Changes in urban and agricultural • Changes in demand patterns and evapotranspiration water demand
Increase in the number of days • Increased temperatures conducive to 03 formation • Potential health effects,including adverse impacts to respiratory systems Source:Environmental Water Account Draft Supplemental EIS/EIR to the Environmental Water Account Final EIS/EIR,Bureau of Reclamation Mid-Pacific Region,Sacramento,California(Bureau of Reclamation.2020).
EIR=Environmental Impact Report
EIS=Environmental Impact Statement
03=ozone
• The loss of sea ice and mountain snowpack, resulting in higher sea levels and higher sea surface evaporation rates with a corresponding increase in tropospheric water vapor due to the atmosphere's ability to hold more water vapor at higher temperatures' 11 California Environmental Protection Agency(CalEPA). 2010. Climate Action Team Report to Governor Schwarzenegger and the California Legislature. December. \\aznasunifiler2\projects\TCI2201 Villa Serena\03 Focused EIR\Draft EIR\October 2024 Draft EIR\DM only\4.4 Greenhouse Gas Emissions.docx(10/11/24) 4.4-5