appendix a section 4(f) de minimis determination 4(f).pdf · thus, the property is not a section...

Appendix A

Section 4(f) De Minimis Determination

Appendix A Section 4(f) De Minimis Determination

I-605/Katella Avenue Interchange Improvements A-1 Initial Study/Environmental Assessment (IS/EA)


A.1 Introduction

This section of the document discusses de minimis impact determinations under Section 4(f). Section 6009(a) of SAFETEA-LU amended Section 4(f) legislation at 23 United States Code (USC) 138 and 49 USC 303 to simplify the processing and approval of projects that have only de minimis impacts on lands protected by Section 4(f). This amendment provides that once the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) determines that a transportation use of Section 4(f) property, after consideration of any impact avoidance, minimization, and mitigation or enhancement measures, results in a de minimis impact on that property, an analysis of avoidance alternatives is not required and the Section 4(f) evaluation process is complete. FHWA’s final rule on Section 4(f) de minimis findings is codified in 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 774.3 and CFR 774.17.

Responsibility for compliance with Section 4(f) has been assigned to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) pursuant to 23 USC 326 and 327, including de minimis impact determinations, as well as coordination with those agencies that have jurisdiction over a Section 4(f) resource that may be affected by a project action.

A.2 Project Description

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 12, in cooperation with the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), proposes to improve the local interchange at Interstate 605 (I-605) and Katella Avenue to improve freeway access and arterial connection, improve interchange traffic operations, enhance safety, and improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities within the interchange area.

The proposed project consists of two Build Alternatives (Build Alternatives 2 and 3). Both Build Alternatives include modifications to interchange ramps and Katella Avenue. The existing I-605 mainline would not be modified, with the exception of the northbound No. 4 lane at the northbound exit ramp. This lane would be restriped from a through lane to a through lane/ramp exit option to accommodate a proposed 2nd lane on the exit ramp. Katella Avenue would be widened and lane geometries would be modified to provide standard lanes and shoulders through the interchange and to tie in with proposed ramp improvements. Proposed modifications to the northbound ramps and Katella Avenue east of the northbound ramps are similar in both build alternatives. The project area includes the interchange ramps and Katella Avenue from the Coyote Creek Channel bridge to Civic Center Drive. Right of way acquisition of approximately 0.1 acre of parkway (landscaped area between the sidewalk and roadway) would be required on the north side of Katella Avenue within the project boundary, at 3131 Katella Avenue. No other permanent right of way acquisitions are anticipated within the project area. A temporary construction easement (TCE) would also be needed for this parcel.

Based on available mapping, roadway widening and drainage improvements on the south side of Katella Avenue, between the northbound exit ramp and Civic Center Drive, would occur within Orange County Flood Control District (OCFCD) and Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD) right of way. Based on available right of way data, it is assumed that the City has prior rights to widen within the existing street and parkway; therefore, a TCE would not be required. An encroachment permit would be needed from OCFCD and LACFCD for construction activities within its ROW.



At the west end of the project, roadway widening and drainage improvements would require construction in the vicinity of Los Alamitos Channel. The Los Alamitos Channel is an OCFCD and LACFCD facility. Based on available right of way data, it has been determined that LACFCD is the underlying fee owner, and OCFCD has a permanent easement for the facility. Further details regarding ownership at this location would be assessed in the next phase of design. For this phase, it is anticipated that a temporary construction easement permit will be needed from LACFCD or OCFCD.

A No-Build Alternative (Alternative 1) has also been considered. Under the No-Build Alternative, no reconstruction or improvements would be made to the existing I-605/Katella Avenue interchange, other than routine roadway maintenance and proposed improvements currently under development. Anticipated increases in traffic volumes will likely result in increased congestion, degraded LOS, and increased delays at the interchange. Additionally, this alternative does not address existing geometric elements or improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

A.3 Resources Evaluated Relative to the Requirements of Section 4(f)

As noted above, Section 4(f) requires an analysis of potential project impacts to parks, recreational facilities, wildlife refuges, and historic properties that qualify as resources protected under Section 4(f).

There are no publicly owned wildlife and waterfowl refuges within 0.5-mile of the project site.

The study area for National Register listed and eligible resources was defined as the Area of Potential Effects (APE) delineated in the Historic Property Survey Report (HPSR) (September 2017); Historic Resources Evaluation Report (HRER) (September 2017); Archaeological Survey Report (ASR) (September 2017); and Extended Phase I Report for Shell Scatter on the Western Side of I-605/Katella Avenue Interchange Improvements Projects (September 2017). These documents determined there are no National Register listed or eligible cultural resources in the APE for the proposed project. Therefore, there are no National Register listed or eligible cultural resources that would trigger the requirements for protection under Section 4(f), and no further discussion of such resources required.

The following is a list of publicly-owned parks and recreation resources within 0.5-mile of the project site. These resources include a range of recreational paths/trails, parks, schools that include recreational facilities, and a golf course. The locations of those resources are shown on Figure A-1, Resources Evaluated Relative to the Requirements of Section 4(f).

A.3.1 Resources Not Subject to the Provisions of Section 4(f)

A.3.1.1 Class I Bicycle Facility – Katella Avenue

Based on the City of Los Alamitos General Plan Mobility and Circulation Element, there is an existing Class I Bicycle Facility along the southern side of Katella Avenue within project limits. Based on Figure 3, Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities, of the City’s Mobility and Circulation Element, the Class I Bicycle Facility extends from approximately 0.1-mile east of the I-605 mainline, heads east along Katella Avenue, south on Wallingsford Road, and then west on Foster Road where it transitions to a designated Class II Bicycle Facility. Approximately 0.15-mile of this facility is situated within project limits. The facility consists of a meandering concrete trail/sidewalk, situated between a parkway and a cinder block wall associated with single-family residential uses in Rossmoor.

INTERSTATE 605/KATELLA AVENUE INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECTINITIAL STUDY/ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Resources Evaluated Relative to the Requirements of Section 4(f)

10/3/

2017

JN M

:\Mda

ta\15

5953

\MXD

\Sep

tembe

r 201

7\A-1

Reso

urces

Eva

luated

Rela

tive t

o the

Req

uirem

ents

of Se

ction

4(f)2

.mxd

Source: Esri Imagery

!.

!.!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

!.

%&o(

Coyote Creek

Coyote CreekPark

Katella Ave

El Dorado ParkGolf Course

CITY OF LONG BEACHCITY OF LOS ALAMITOS

El Dorado Nature Center

ROSSMOOR

° 0 2,0001,000Feet

LegendProject Boundary0.5 Mile BufferClass 1 Bike PathCoyote Creek Bikeway

!. Park Locations!. School Locations!. Community Facilities

Figure A-1

Coyo

te Cr

eek

RossmoorPark

OakMiddle School

LeeElementary

School

Weaver Elementary

School

Los AlamitosCommunity Center



As noted above, this Class I Bicycle Facility is identified within the City’s Mobility and Circulation Element, and is considered a transportation facility. It is not identified or designated within the City’s General Plan Open Space, Recreation, and Conservation Element as a recreational facility. Moreover, based on field observations conducted by the Project Development Team (PDT), the trail is not heavily utilized for transportation or recreational purposes, given the discontinuous nature of pedestrian and bicycle facilities through the existing interchange immediately to the west. Thus, the property is not a Section 4(f) property, therefore, the provisions of Section 4(f) do not apply.

A.3.1.2 Coyote Creek Park

Coyote Creek Park is a passive, 3.7-acre greenway located along the southeasterly side of Coyote Creek, immediately north of the I-605 mainline. Amenities include a trail, native landscaping, and interpretive signage. The park exists within a Southern California Edison (SCE) utility corridor that runs parallel to Coyote Creek. Although the property is utilized for recreational purposes, it is under the ownership of SCE and is not a publicly-owned facility. Thus, the property is not a Section 4(f) property, therefore, the provisions of Section 4(f) do not apply.

A.3.2 Resources Subject to the Provisions of Section 4(f) - No Use

A.3.2.1 El Dorado Park Nature Center

El Dorado Park Nature Center is a 105-acre park located immediately adjacent to the northwest of the interchange, within the City of Long Beach. This park functions as a plant and animal sanctuary, and amenities include trails, two lakes, a stream, and forested areas, as well as a Visitor Center with educational displays and an art center. This park is situated immediately west of Coyote Creek, approximately 0.1-mile from the project site. This facility is owned by the City of Long Beach, and is open to the public. Thus, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, the proposed project site is limited to areas east of Coyote Creek. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into the El Dorado Park Nature Center. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the park as a result of the proposed project.

In addition, the project would have minimal adverse constructive use effects (i.e., “proximity” impacts), that would substantially impair the activities, features, and/or attributes that qualify this facility for protection under Section 4(f). This conclusion is based on the following:

• Access: Access to the facility is provided via East Spring Street, which is approximately 0.4-mile northwest of the project site. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the park.

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the park, or that would substantively alter views from the park. Along the southeastern boundary of the park facility (i.e., the area of the park closest to the project site) exists dense vegetation, including tall mature trees, that would prevent any views of park users towards the project site. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to the El Dorado Park Nature Center.



• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the park, since the park and the project site are segregated by Coyote Creek. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter the El Dorado Park Nature Center, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this Initial Study/Environmental Assessment (IS/EA), the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would not result in proximity effects related to air quality on the El Dorado Park Nature Center.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. Additionally, as noted above, along the southeastern boundary of the park facility (i.e., the area of the park closest to the project site) exists dense vegetation, including tall mature trees. This vegetation would serve as a buffer between park users and the project site. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on the El Dorado Park Nature Center.

• Biological Environment: Although El Dorado Park Nature Center is occupied by dense vegetation, water features, and plant communities that could support sensitive biological resources, there would be no project construction within or immediately adjacent to the park, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the park would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the park.

The property is a Section 4(f) property, but no “use” will occur. Therefore, the provisions of Section 4(f) do not apply.

A.3.2.2 El Dorado Park Golf Course

El Dorado Park Golf Course is a 303.8-acre 18-hole golf course located approximately 0.5-mile west of the existing I-605/Katella Avenue interchange, within the City of Long Beach at 2400 North Studebaker Road. The golf course occurs both north and south of East Willow Street, with an undercrossing for golfers to cross beneath the roadway. Although the golf course charges a green fee for usage, this user fee is generally related to the operation and maintenance of the facility, and thus it does not negate the property’s status as a Section 4(f) property. This facility is owned by the City of Long Beach, and is open to the public. Thus, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, the proposed project site is limited to areas east of Coyote Creek and the San Gabriel River. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into the El Dorado Park Golf Course. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the golf course as a result of the proposed project.




• Access: Access to the golf course is provided via Studebaker Road, which is approximately 0.9-mile west of the project site. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the golf course.

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the golf course, or that would substantively alter views from the golf course given the distance to the project site. Along the eastern boundary of the golf course (i.e., the area of the golf course closest to the project site), views towards the project site would generally be interrupted by mature trees on the property in addition to intervening vegetation and structures. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to the El Dorado Park Golf Course.

• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the golf course, since the golf course and the project site are segregated by Coyote Creek and the San Gabriel River. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter the El Dorado Park Golf Course, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on the El Dorado Park Golf Course.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. Additionally, intervening vegetation (including mature trees), structures, and the distance between the golf course and interchange (approximately 0.5-mile) would serve as a buffer between golf course users and the project site. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on the El Dorado Park Golf Course.

• Biological Environment: The El Dorado Park Golf Course is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction within or immediately adjacent to the golf course, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the golf course would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.


A.3.2.3 Rossmoor Park

Rossmoor Park is a 9.4-acre neighborhood park located approximately 0.3-mile southeast of the interchange within the Rossmoor neighborhood, at 3232 Hedwig Road. Amenities include basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts; softball and soccer fields; a play area; barbecues;



picnic table; and a 750 square-foot community room and kitchen. The facility is owned and operated by the Rossmoor Community Services District (RCSD), a public entity, and the facility is open to the public. Thus, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, Rossmoor Park is situated approximately 0.2-mile from project site boundaries. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into Rossmoor Park. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the park as a result of the proposed project.


• Access: Rossmoor Park can be accessed via multiple residential roadways surrounding the facility (Hedwig Road, Pemberton Road, Kerth Drive, and Baskerville Road). Parking stalls for the facility are provided along Pemberton Road, Kerth Drive, and Baskerville Road, while street parking is available along Hedwig Road. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the park or affect parking associated with the facility.

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the park, or that would substantively alter views from the park given the intervening structures. Between the park and the project site are single-family residential uses and associated structures and landscaping that do not allow views towards Katella Avenue and the interchange. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to Rossmoor Park.

• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the park. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter Rossmoor Park, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on Rossmoor Park.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. Additionally, intervening single-family residential uses, and associated structures and landscaping (including mature trees) would serve as a buffer between park users and the project site. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on Rossmoor Park.

• Biological Environment: Rossmoor Park is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction within or immediately adjacent to the park, and no disturbance of any



vegetation associated with the park would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.


A.3.2.4 Oak Middle School

Oak Middle School is located adjacent to the project site at 10821 Oak Street, in the City of Los Alamitos. The school is operated by the Los Alamitos Unified School District. The campus includes a number of recreational facilities that consist of turf/sports fields, a running track, sports courts, and gymnasium.

The Los Alamitos Unified School District and the City of Los Alamitos entered into a Master Joint Use Agreement in November 2014 that allows for limited use of selected school facilities by the City for recreational purposes for the benefit of the City’s residents. The Master Joint Use Agreement includes Individual Joint Use Agreements that apply to individual schools within the District, allowing for limited City use or rental by user groups primarily during after-school hours. Oak Middle School is included under an Individual Joint Use Agreement. Thus, as a publicly-owned facility that is open to the public for recreational purposes, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, Oak Middle School is situated adjacent to, but outside of, project site boundaries. Generally, the school is located adjacent to where improvements to the I-605 northbound entrance ramp from Katella Avenue are proposed. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into Oak Middle School. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the park as a result of the proposed project.


• Access: Oak Middle School is accessed via Oak Street. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the school or affect parking associated with the facility. Though construction activities may temporarily alter traffic patterns along Katella Avenue to the southwest of Oak Middle School, the project would incorporate standardized measures that would minimize potential alterations in access to the school. Thus, the project would not substantially impair the activities, features, and/or attributes that qualify this facility for protection under Section 4(f).

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the school, or that would substantively alter views from the school given the intervening structures. Between the school and the project site are buildings and landscaping associated with the former Super Media facility, in addition to the Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center, and City Hall. These buildings and features do not allow views towards Katella Avenue and the interchange. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to Oak Middle School.



• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the park. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter Oak Middle School, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on Oak Middle School.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. The project would include measures to minimize potential construction noise impacts on sensitive receptors in the project area. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on Oak Middle School.

• Biological Environment: Oak Middle School is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction that would affect the school, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the school would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.


A.3.2.5 Los Alamitos Community & Youth Center

The Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center is located at 10911 Oak Street, in the City of Los Alamitos. The center is located immediately north of City Hall. The facility is the focal point for recreational activities and community services in Los Alamitos and Rossmoor. The center includes rooms for arts, crafts, exercise and dance classes, and special programs. The activity rooms and kitchen facilities can accommodate banquets, receptions, meetings, seniors, and fund-raising activities. The Community Center is also the home of the Los Alamitos Senior Club and Senior Lunch and Bread Program. Adjacent to the Community Center is the Youth Center, which also includes a gymnasium. Thus, as a publicly-owned facility that is open to the public for recreational purposes, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, the Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center is situated 400 feet northeast of project site boundaries. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into the center. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the park as a result of the proposed project.




• Access: The Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center is accessed via Oak Street, and includes diagonal parking along the west side of the roadway on the community center frontage. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the center or affect parking associated with the facility. Though construction activities may temporarily alter traffic patterns along Katella Avenue to the southwest of the center, the project would incorporate standardized measures that would minimize potential alterations in access to the center. Thus, the project would not substantially impair the activities, features, and/or attributes that qualify this facility for protection under Section 4(f).

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the center, or that would substantively alter views from the center given the intervening structures. Between the center and the project site are buildings and landscaping associated with the former Super Media facility, in addition to City Hall. These buildings and features do not allow views towards Katella Avenue and the interchange. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to the center.

• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the park. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter the Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on the center.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. The project would include measures to minimize potential construction noise impacts on sensitive receptors in the project area. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on the center.

• Biological Environment: The majority of the Los Alamitos Community and Youth Center is developed and/or hardscaped. Existing landscaping is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction that would affect the center, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the center would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.




A.3.2.6 Lee Elementary School

Lee Elementary School is located approximately 0.2-mile east of the project site, at 11481 Foster Road within the community of Rossmoor. The school is under the jurisdiction of the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and includes a number of recreational facilities such as grass/sports fields, basketball/sports courts, and a tot lot. The grass/sports fields are open to the public outside of school hours and are available for rental.1 Thus, as a publicly-owned facility that is open to the public for recreational purposes, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, Lee Elementary School is situated approximately 0.15-mile from project site boundaries. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into the school. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the school as a result of the proposed project.


• Access: Lee Elementary School can be accessed via Foster Road, along the easterly boundary of the school. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the school or affect parking associated with the facility.

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the school, or that would substantively alter views from the school given the intervening structures. Between the school and the project site are single-family residential uses and associated structures and landscaping that do not allow views towards Katella Avenue, I-605, and the interchange. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to Lee Elementary School.

• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the school. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter Lee Elementary School, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on Lee Elementary School.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. Additionally, intervening single-family residential uses, and associated structures and landscaping (including mature trees) would serve as a buffer between the school and the project site. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on Lee Elementary School.

1 City of Los Alamitos General Plan, Open Space, Recreation, and Conservation Element, Table 2, page 6.



• Biological Environment: Lee Elementary School is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction within or immediately adjacent to the school, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the school would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.


A.3.2.7 Weaver Elementary School

Weaver Elementary School is located approximately 0.2-mile southeast of the project site, at 11872 Wembley Road within the community of Rossmoor. The school is under the jurisdiction of the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and includes a number of recreational facilities such as grass/sports fields, basketball/sports courts, and tot lots. The grass/sports fields are open to the public outside of school hours and are available for rental.2 Thus, as a publicly-owned facility that is open to the public for recreational purposes, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-1, Weaver Elementary School is situated approximately 0.2-mile from project site boundaries. The proposed project’s facilities and construction activities would not encroach into the school. Thus, there would be no permanent incorporation or temporary occupancy of the school as a result of the proposed project.


• Access: Weaver Elementary School can be accessed via Wembley Road and Piedmont Avenue, along the westerly and northerly boundaries of the school, respectively. The project would not include any temporary or permanent improvements or activities that would have the capacity to alter or impede access to the school or affect parking associated with the facility.

• Visual/Aesthetics: The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to be visible from the school, or that would substantively alter views from the school given the intervening structures. Between the school and the project site are single-family residential uses and associated structures and landscaping that do not allow views towards Katella Avenue, I-605, and the interchange. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to Weaver Elementary School.

2 Ibid.



• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality at the school. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach or enter Weaver Elementary School, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.

• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on Weaver Elementary School.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. Additionally, intervening single-family residential uses, and associated structures and landscaping (including mature trees) would serve as a buffer between the school and the project site. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on Weaver Elementary School.

• Biological Environment: Weaver Elementary School is routinely maintained, and on-site vegetation consists primarily of turf and ornamental species. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance on a daily basis, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. However, there would be no project construction within or immediately adjacent to the school, and no disturbance of any vegetation associated with the school would occur. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.


A.3.3 Resources Subject to the Provisions of Section 4(f) – De Minimis Determination

A.3.3.1 Coyote Creek Trail

Coyote Creek Trail is a Class I bike path that runs along the easterly side of Coyote Creek. Based on available mapping, the trail occurs within OCFCD and LACFCD right of way. The trail begins at the north fork of Coyote Creek in the City of Santa Fe Springs, and extends south into the City of Long Beach where it converges with the San Gabriel River. The facility is paved, and access to the trail within the project area is provided via Katella Avenue, with access points on both the northern and southern sides of the roadway. As a publicly-owned facility that is open to the public for recreational purposes, it is considered a Section 4(f) property under the provisions Section 4(f).

As shown in Figure A-2, Coyote Creek Trail Access, the proposed project would not affect the existing trail alignment, but would result in temporary construction impacts to the two trail access points along Katella Avenue. In order to construct and extend sidewalks on both sides of Katella Avenue through the project limits, construction activities would be required within the existing ramps that extend from the Katella Avenue right-of-way, and lead downhill towards the Coyote Creek Trail.

W Katella Ave

E Willow St

Coyo

te Cre

ek

Coyo

te Cre

ek

INTERSTATE 605/KATELLA AV ENUE INTERCHANGE IMPROV EMENTS PROJECTINITIAL STUDY/ENV IRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Coyote Creek Trail Access from Katella AvenueFigure A2

°

9/26/2017 JN M:\Mdata\155953\MXD\September 2017\Figure A2.mxd

0 125 250Feet

Source: Google Im agery 2016

LegendCoyote Creek TrailCoyote Creek Trail Access from Katella Avenue Tem porary Construction Im pacts – Trail Access to be Maintained Throughout Construction



Avoidance and Minimization Measures

In order to minimize construction impacts, the project would incorporate a stage construction approach, where only half of the access improvements would occur at a single time. While half of the access ramp is being modified to accommodate project improvements, the other half would remain open for recreational access. As such, trail access to and from Katella Avenue would be maintained at all times on both sides of Katella Avenue.

In addition, the construction duration of the improvements to the access ramps would be minimal (up to four weeks in duration). The trail access points would be restored to pre-project conditions upon completion of the construction process, and the provision of sidewalks through the interchange is anticipated to result in beneficial recreational impacts over the long-term. Short-term impacts to trail operations are considered minimal and would not impair existing activities, features, or attributes of the existing trail.

A de minimis impact involves the use of Section 4(f) property that is generally minor in nature. The temporary use of the Section 4(f) resource, together with any impact avoidance, minimization, and enhancement measures incorporated into the project, does not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes that qualify the resource for protection under Section 4(f).

Based on the information presented, Caltrans believes that the project qualifies for a de minimis finding under Section 4(f). The temporary use of Coyote Creek Trail is minor in nature, and this project does not permanently adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes offered at this recreational facility.


• Access: Impacts related to access for the Coyote Creek Trail from Katella Avenue have been discussed above. As noted, the temporary use of the Section 4(f) resource, together with any impact avoidance, minimization, and enhancement measures incorporated into the project, does not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes that qualify the resource for protection under Section 4(f).

• Visual/Aesthetics: The Coyote Creek Trail is generally situated at a lower grade than Katella Avenue and the existing interchange, and views of the project site would be limited and intermittent. The proposed project would not include any features that would be tall enough to substantively alter views from the trail given existing topography and intervening structures and vegetation. Thus, neither of the Build Alternatives would result in adverse proximity effects to Coyote Creek Trail.

• Water Quality: The project would not have the potential to adversely affect water quality along the trail. No storm water drainage or runoff from the project site would encroach upon the trail, and adverse proximity impacts would not occur under the Build Alternatives.



• Air Quality: As noted in Section 2.2.6, Air Quality, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational pollutant emissions, upon adherence to standardized air quality measures intended to reduce equipment emissions and fugitive dust. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to air quality on Coyote Creek Trail.

• Noise: As described in Section 2.2.7, Noise, of this IS/EA, the project would have minimal adverse effects on surrounding uses related to short-term construction or long-term operational noise. The project would include measures to minimize potential construction noise impacts on sensitive receptors in the project area. Thus, the project would have minimal proximity effects related to noise on Coyote Creek Trail.

• Biological Environment: The Coyote Creek Trail is paved, and situated adjacent to Coyote Creek, which is a concrete flood control channel void of vegetation within the project area. Given the lack of natural habitat and level of human activity/disturbance along the trail, it is not anticipated that any sensitive natural communities or species exist. In addition, as noted above, the project is not expected to result in adverse effects related to air quality or noise, that could otherwise result in proximity effects to biological resources at the facility.

As such, the project would not result in a permanent incorporation of Coyote Creek Trail. The project would result in a temporary use of the Section 4(f) resource. Additionally, the project would have minimal “proximity” impacts as a result of construction or operations. Thus, implementation of the proposed project would not permanently adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes of the Coyote Creek Trail and a de minimis use would occur. Further consultation is necessary to confirm the de minimis determination under Section 4(f). Caltrans will continue coordination with OCFCD and LACFCD prior to finalizing the IS/EA in order to finalize the de minimis determination.

appendix a section 4(f) de minimis determination 4(f).pdf · thus, the property is not a section...

Documents