The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About01 ACQUISITION OF PROP 02-06-95NO. 1 2-6-95 DATE: FEBRUARY 9 9 5 I n t e r- C o m TO: WILLIAM A. HUSTON, CITY MANAGER FROM' COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT SUBJECT: CERTIFICATION OF A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR ACQUISITION OF A 3.66 ACRE PORTION OF THE PROPERTY AT 3075-3097 EDINGER AVENUE RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council certify that the Final Negative Declaration is adequate for the possibl~ Acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of the property at 3075 - 3097 Edinger Avenue by adopting Resolution No. 95-09. FISCAL IMPACT The City of Tustin is currently preparing an appraisal of a 3.66 acre portion of the Jamboree Plaza site for the possible acquisition of a commuter rail station site. Selection of the consultant was conducted through a Request For Proposal (RFP) process. The total contract amount of the appraisal was $5,200 which is funded using State Transit Capital Improvement (TCI) grant monies. Since this project is City initiated, all other Staff time and resources to prepare the Negative Declaration are absorbed as part of the Community Development Department budget. BACKGROUND \ DISCUS S ION The Community Development Department has prepared an Initial Study to determine if the possible acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of the property at 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue will have significant effect on the environment. A Negative Declaration has been prepared for the project since there is no substantial evidence that the "Project" (Acquisition) will have significant environmental effectS. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) defines the term "Project" as the whole of an action, which has the potential for resulting in a physical change to the environment directly or indirectly. The acquisition is considered a "Project" under CEQA because it is: (1) an activity directly undertaken by a public agency and (2) is an activity which is being approved and which may be subject to several discretionary approvals by governmental agencies. City Council Report Certification of Neg. Dec. for Acquisition of a 3.66 acres for Commuter Rail Station February 6, 1995 Page 2 The possible acquisition of a portion of the subject property will be necessary to develop the Tustin Metrolink Commuter Rail Station to provide access to Metrolink service along the Oceanside to Los Angeles route. The proposed Project is the possible acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of a larger 19.1 gross acre parcel of land located on the north side of Edinger Avenue, west of Jamboree Road. The portion of the property intended to be developed as a commuter rail station parking lot and loading platform would be located at the rear of the triangular shaped parcel bounded by the railroad on the north and the Jamboree Road bridge on the east (See Exhibit A). The remaining portion of the subject property known as Jamboree Plaza is presently developed with auto related uses and a fast food restaurant and will be developed with other industrial/office uses in the future. The project site is situated at the northwest corner of Edinger Avenue and Jamboree Road. The U.S. Marine Corps Air Station - Tustin, slated for closure before 1999, is located south and east (across Jamboree Road) of the property across Edinger Avenue. The AT&SF Railroad and various industrial uses are located to the north (Zoned PC-IND). Although no detailed development plans for the proposed commuter rail station have been prepared at this time, the area to be possibly acquired would be improved with a parking lot for 300-325 parking spaces to serve the commuter rail station. Platforms, canopies, ticket vending machines, seating areas, track work and double track rail cross (at-grade or grade separated) would be constructed within the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) right-of-way. As the plans are developed, the specifics of construction of the parking lot, lighting, landscaping, circulation, access and platforms will be made available. At that time, any necessary additional environmental assessment required by CEQA will be undertaken. The attached Negative Declaration is for possible property acquisition purposes only. City Council Report Certification of Neg. Dec. for Acquisition of a 3.66 acres for Commuter Rail Station February 6, 1995 Page 3 Pursuant to Section 15073 of the Public Resources Code there must be a public review period for Negative Declarations. On January 4, 1995, the City circulated the proposed Negative Declaration for a 21 day,public review . Copies of the Initial Study and Discussion of Environmental Evaluation were sent to affected agencies, the property owner and surrounding Homeowners Associations. In addition, an Official Notice was published in the Tustin News on January 5, 1995 and in the SCAG Intergovernmental Review Report. Only six responses were received during the public comment period (See Attachment A). None of the comments identified any issues or impacts related to the possible acquisition that require a response at this time. CONCLUSION Certification of this Negative Declaration will allow the Assistant City Manager to initiate negotiations for purchase acquisition or a long term lease for a commuter rail station with Kemper Real Estate, the property owner of Jamboree Plaza at 3075 - 3097 Edinger' Avenue. Rita\Westfiel~ ~ Assistant Director Community Development Department RW:br;mp\negdeccr. rw Attachments: Exhibit A - Jamboree Plaza Location Map AttaChment A - Responses to Negative Declaration Resolution No. 95-09 EXHIBIT A JAMBOREE PLAZA -. SITE A ~ A.T. & S.F. RAILROAD A/Fi'STAT/ON AVENUE EXHIBIT A The Gas Cempa Orange Coast Region January 13, 1995 City of Tustin Communily Development Department 300 Centennial Way P. O. Box 3539 Tustin, CA 92681-3559 ECE VED- Cu,"4MU.~, rY Attention: Rito Westfield Subject: Edinger Ave. Roil SMion This letter is not to be interpreted os a contractual commitment to serve the proposed project but only os on information service. Its intent is to notify you that the Southern California Cos Company has facilities in the area where the above named project is proposed. (;as service to the project could be served by an existing main as shown on the attached atlas sheet without any significant impact on the environment. The service would be in accordance with the company's policies and extension rules on file with the California Public Uti!ities Commission ct the time contractual arrangements are made. 1'he availability of natural gas service, os set forth in this letter, is based upon present conditions of gas supply and regulatory policies. As a public utility, the Southern California Gas Company is under the jurisdiction of the California Public Utilities Commission. We can dso be offecled by actions of gas supply or the condition under which service is available, gas service will be provided in accordance with revised conditions. Estimates of gas usage for non-residential projects ore developed on on individual basis and are obtained from the Commercial-Industrial Market Services Daft by calling 1(800)427-2000. We have developed several programs which ore available upon request to provide assistance in selecting the most energy efficient appliances or systems for o podiculor project. If you desire further information on any of our energy conservation programs, please contact this office for assistance. Sincerely, Ronold E. Reed Technicol Supervisor Southern California Gas Company .~la ilinL,. 4 ~,,/, : .:.~: MF:dp attachment EIRCOMM.DOC A TTA CHMENT A 818 West Seventh Street, 12th Floor e Los Angeles, California 90017-3435 J'OUTHERfl CALIFORNIA AJ'J'OClATIOfl OF GOVERflmEnTJ' (213) 236-1800 e~ FAX (213) 236-18' January 11, 1995 Ms. Rim Westfield City Of Tustin 15222 Del Amo Avenue Tustin, CA 92680 RE: SCAG Clearinghouse #: 19500011 Project Title: COMMUTER RAIL STATION SITE AQUISTION Dear Ms. Westfield' We have reviewed the above referenced document and determined that it is not regionally significant per Areawide Clearinghouse criteria. Therefore, the project does not warrant clearinghouse comments at this time. Should there be a change in the scope of the project, we would appreciate the opportunity to review and comment at that time. A description of the project will be published in the January 15, 1995 Intergovernmental Review Report for public review and comment. The project title and SCAG Clearinghouse number should be used in all correspondence with SCAG concerning this project. Correspondence should be sent to the attention of the Clearinghouse Coordinator. If you have any questions, please contact Dan Akins at (213) 236- 1972. Sincerely, ERIC H. ROTH Manager, Intergovernmental Review Stella Mendoza City of Brawley-President. Ed Edelman Los Angeles County-First Vice President. Dick Kelly City of Palmdale-Second Vice President, Gaddi Vasquez Orange County- Pa.st President, r Richard Alarcon City of Los Angeles. Richard Alatorre City of Los Angeles. Robert Bartlett City of Monvovia, George Bass City of Bell, Ron Bates City of Los Alamitos, George Battey, J r. City of Burbank. Hal Beruson City of Los Angeles, Walter Bowman City of Cypress, Marvin Braude City of Los Angeles, Susan Brooks City of Rancho Palos Verdes, Art Brown City of Buena Park. Yvonne Brathw,~:' Burke Los Angeles County, Jim Busby, Jr. City of Victop.'ille, Bob Buster Riverside Count)'. Laura Chick City of Los Angeles, John Cox City of Newpor~ Beach, Cynthia Crothers City of Moreno V Hal Croyts City of Lomita, Richard Dixon City of Lake Forest. Do~gDrummond City of Long Beach. Lillian Eaton City of Yucaipa. Joseph Esquivei City of 'Lakewood. John Ferraro City of Los AP Karyn Foley City of Calabasas, John FIvnn Venmra County, Ruth Galanter City of Los Angeles, Sandra Genis City of Costa Mesa, Jackie Goldberg City of Los Angeles. Candace Haggard City o, Clemente, Garlahd Hardeman City of in'glewood, blike Hernandez City of LOs Angeles. Nate Holden City of Los Angeles, Robert Jamison City of Anesia. Jeff Kello .~.g City of Long Beach, Abbe Land C~ty of WeSt Hollywood, John Longville City of Rialto, Ron Loveridge City of Riverside, John Melton City. of Santa Paula, Barbara Messina City of Alhambra. Judy Mikels City of S~mi Valley. David Myers City of Palmdale, Kathryn Nack City of Pasadena Bev Perry City of Brea~ Gwenn Norton-Perry City. of Chino Hills, Ron Parks City of Temecula, ltv Pickler City of Anaheim. Michael Plisky City of Oxnard. Beatric~ Proo City of Pico Rivera, Larry Rhinehar't City. of Montclair, Richard Riordan City of Los Angeles, Mark Ridley-Thonms City of Los Angeles, Albert Robles City of South Gate. Sam Sharp lmpehal County, Marcine Shaw City of Compton, Rudy Svorinich City of Los Angeles, Tom Sykes City of Walnut, Laurie Tully-Payne City of Highland, Jori Wachs City of Los Angeles, Rita Walters City of Los Angeles, Judy Wright City of Claremont. Zev Yaroslavsky City of Los Angeles , January 22, 1995 " COMM, tjN~Ty D£VL£OPN~F Rita Westfield City of Tustin Community Development Department 300 C~ntennia! Way P. O. Box 3539 Tustin,CA 92681 - 3539 RE: NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF A NEGATIVE DECI2tRATION - COMMUTER RAIL STATION Dear Ms. Westfield: We have received the above referenced study and appreciate the opportunity to review the document and participate in the process related to the acquisition/construction/and operation of a platform commuter rail station near our neighborhoods. We find the NOP fairly assesses the impacts of the acquisition of the 3.66 acre parcel. We request that we be kept informed of the status of this projeCt all along the way. We would like to be involved in the design of the project and be able to participate in the environmental analysis that will be required by CEQA at that time. Subsequent information of this project can be sent to me at home at 14272 Wyeth Avenue, Irvine, CA 92714 or to the address on this letterhead. Thank you for the opportunity to comment and participate on this project. Sincerely, ..'" i~ ' "~" """ c ~ ZcW Chris Elliott 4790 IRVIN E BOU LEVARD. SUITE 105; BOX 254 IRVINE, CALIFORNIA 92720 UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS MARINE CORPS AIR BASES. WESTERN AREA EL TORO (SANTA ANA). CALIFORNIA 92709-~O ! CITY OF TUSTIN C OM2VfUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT ATTN PdTA WESTFiJELD P O BOX 3539 TUSTIN CA 92681-3539 COMMUNITY DEVLEOP~4? IN REPLY REFER TO: 1 i230.2 AQ/CMRA1L 24 Jan 1994 INr!TIA2.,o ,. ,_ .-. ,.qT'r rp,,,, _~L~,..~ ~,'~. ~. _x . .,~.o,,..,. m'[x n-:..,_, DECLARATION; ACQUISITION Dear Ms. Wesrfield: The following comments are provided in response to your letter dated January 4, 1995. Pursuant to the Base Realig~rment and Closure Act of 1993, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Tusdn is scheduled fbr closure by 1999. Therefore, helicopter flight activities are anricipat,xl ro remain at currem levels. Plam~ing considerations must accommodate existing condi, tions un,A1 al'tar time. The project site is located adjacent to MCAS Tustin and is impacted by the local training pattern and arrival and depart'ute rotates for helicopters operating at MCAS Tustin. Occupants will frequently see and hear military aircraft and will experience varying degrees of ~oise and vibration. The project proposal is subject to an Ag~-eement and Grant of Easements, instrument No. 88-456313, recorded on September 12, 1988. These easements include requirements for building height, land use and occupancy limits. This location specifically prohibits erecting, constructing, growing, installing, creating or permitting any structure, building, antenna, tower, wire, tree or other obstruction extending more than 60' Above Ground Level. Current hours of operation at MCAS Tustin are as follows: Monday Tuesday through Thursday Friday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 MCAS Tustin is a master helicopter air station and, as such, can operate 24 hours per day, seven days per week. The above hours of normal operations for the facility are imposed due ro fiscal and manpower constraims as well as being designed to reduce the noise in-:pact of' out- operations on the surrounding community. Circumstances frequently arise which require an extension of these operating hours. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. C. Laura Thornton at (714) 726-3702. Sincerely, M. 1L HUMBERD Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Deputy Community Plans and Liaison Officer By direction of the Commander STATE OF CALIFORNIA .... BUSINESS AND TRAN .rATION AGENCY PETE WILSON, Governor DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT 12 2501 PULLMAN ST. SANTA ANA, CA 92705 FAX AND MAIL January 24, 1995 · ~o,'~:.-..-.... OO,~Mb, N/~ . ..~ Ms. Rita Westfield City of Tustin Community Development Department 300 Centennial Way P.O. Box 3539 Tustin CA, 92681-3539 File: IGR\CEQA Negative Dec. SCH # none Subject: Negative Declaration for the acquisition of a 3.66 acre land. Dear Ms. Westfield: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Negative Declaration for the acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of the property at 3075 - 3097 Edinger Avenue for the purpose of developing a commuter rail station. Caltrans District 12 is a reviewing 'agency regarding this project and at this time has no comment. Please continue to keep us informed on this project. If you have any questions, .please do not hesitate to contact Tony Malayeri at 714 -756-4924. Thank you. Robert Joseph, Chief Advance Planning Branch CC' Tom Loftus, OPR. Ron Helgeson, HDQTRS Planning Tom Persons, HDQTRS Traffic Op. Pat Ollervides, Traffic OP. Judy Heyer, SP&PT. January 25, 1995 Ms. Rita Westfield City of Tustin Community Development Department P.O. Box 3539 Tustin, CA 92681-3539 % SUBJECT: INITIAL STUDY AND NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR PROPERTY ACQUISITION FOR COMMUTER RAIL STATION Dear Ms. Westfield: Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed initial study and negative declaration for the acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of the property at 3075 - 3097 Edinger Avenue for the purposes of developing a commuter rail station. We have reviewed the information forwarded to us and do not have comments at this time. However, we understand further environmental documentation will be circulated for the rail station design and its impacts. Please provide the City of Irvine with a copy of any further environmental documentation for our review when it becomes available. Thank you for continuing to keep the City of Irvine informed of any projects of potential impact. Sincerely, SHERI VANDER DUSSEN, AICP Manager of Planning and Development Services c: Leslie Aranda, Principal Planner John Harris, Principal Transportation Engineer Timor Rafiq, Principal Transportation Analyst Elizabeth Mogster, Associate Transportation Analyst/Engineer Diane Bathgate, Associate Planner 1 RESOLUTION NO. 95-09 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 A RESOLUTION OF THE TUSTIN CITY COUNCIL, CERTIFYING THE FINAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AS ADEQUATE FOR THE ACQUISITION OF A 3.66 ACRE PORTION OF THE PROPERTY AT 3075-3097 EDINGER AVENUE INCLUDING REQUIRED FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. The Tustin City Council does hereby resolve as follows: I · The Tustin City Council finds and determines as follows: ao The proposed acquisition of a 3.66 acre portion of the property at 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue, legally described as being a portion of Parcel 2 of Lot Line Adjustment No. 91-2 and Parcels 7 & 8 of Parcel Map No. 91-265, is considered a "project" pursuant to the terms of the California Environmental Quality Act. B. A Negative Declaration has been prepared for this project and has been distributed for public review. C · The City Council has considered evidence presented by the Community Development Director and other interested parties with respect to the subject Negative Declaration. D · The City Council has evaluated the proposed final Negative Declaration and determined it to be adequate and complete. II. A Final Negative Declaration has been completed in compliance with CEQA and State guidelines. The City Council, having authority over the approval of the acquisition of a portion of the property at 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue, has received and considered the information contained in the Negative Declaration, prior to recommending approval of the proposed project, and found that it adequately discussed the environmental effects of the proposed project. The City Council has found that the project involves no potential for an adverse effect, either individually or cumulatively, on wildlife resources and makes a De Minimis Impact Finding related to AB3158, Chapter 1206, Statutes of 1990. On the basis of the initial study and comments received during the public review process, the City Council has found that, the proposed projects would not have a significant effect on the environment. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Resolution No. 95-09 Page 2 PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Tustin City Council, held on the 6th day of February, 1995. Thomas R. Saltarelli Mayor Mary E. Wynn City Clerk STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF ORANGE ) CITY OF TUSTIN ) SS CERTIFICATION FOR RESOLUTION NO. 95-09 MARY E. WYNN, City Clerk and ex-officio Clerk of the City Council of the City of Tustin, California, does hereby certify that the whole number of the members of the City Council of the City of Tustin is 5; that the above and foregoing Resolution No.95-09 was duly and regularly introduced, passed, and adopted at a regular meeting of the Tustin City Council, held on the 6th day of February, 1995. COUNCILMEMBER AYES: COUNCILMEMBER NOES: COUNCILMEMBER ABSTAINED: COUNCILMEMBER ABSENT: MARY E. WYNN City Clerk COMM UNITY ATTACHMENT TO NO. 1 2-6-95 DEVELOPNIENT DEPARTMENT 300 Centennial Way, Tustin, CA 92680 ( 7 ~ 4) ~ 7.~-.~ ~ o_~ INITIAL STUDY I. BACKGROUND Name of Proponent CITY OF TUSTIN Address and Phone Number of Proponent 300 CENTENNIAL WAY TUSTIN, CALIFORNIA 92680 (714) 573-3106 Date Check List Submitted Agency Requiring Check List Name of Proposal, if applicable January 4, 1995 CITY OF TUSTIN CO~iUTER RAIL STATION SITE ACOU-SiTION H. ENVIRONMENTAL EMPACTS 1. Earth. Will the proposal result in: YES a. Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures? [~] b. Disruptions, displacements, compaction or overcovering of the soil? [--[ c. Change in topography or ground surface relief feature~? [__] d. The dest~ctio..n,,cov, ering o.r rnodi.ficatio, n o.fany unique geolomc or-- .:-. -- physical features'? " [--] e. Any increase in wind or water erosion of soils, either on or off the site Changes in deposition or erosion of beach sands, or changes in siltation, deposition or erosion which may modifis, the channel of a river or stream or the bed of the ocean or any bay, inlet or lake? MAYBE NO g. Exposure of people or property to geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, mud slides, ground failure, or similar hazards? 2. Air. Will the proposal result in: a. Substantial air emission or deterioration of ambient air quality? b. The creation of objectionable odors? c. Alteration of air movement, moisture, or temperatures, or any change in climate, either locally or regionally? 3. Water. V~511 the proposal result in: a. Changes in currents, or the course of direction of water movements, in either marine or fresh water? b. Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or the rate and amount of surface runoff?. C. Alterations to the course or flow of flood waters? d. Change in the amount of surface water in any water body? Discharge into surface waters, or in any alteration of surface water quality, including but not limited to temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity? f. Alteration of the direction or rate of flow of ground waters? Change in the quantity of ground waters, either throuo_h direct additions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations? h. Substantial reduction in the amount of water otherwise available for public water supplies? i. Exposure of people or prope~y to water related hazards such as .... :' '.' :'ffOodink' b'r' tidal' Wax;es? ......... · ' ""' 4. Plant Life. Will the proposal result in: a. Change in the diversity of species, or number of any species of plants (including trees, shrubs, grass, crops, and aquatic plants)? b. Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of plants? YES MAYBE NO c. Introduction of new species of plants into an area, or in a barrier to the normal replenishment of existing species? d. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop? 5. Animal Life. V~qll the proposal result in: Change in the diversity of species, or numbers of any species of animals (birds, land animals including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic organisms or insects)? b. Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of ' animals7 c. Introduction of new species of animals into an area, or result in a barrier to the migration or movement of animals? d. Deterioration to existing fish or wildlife habitat? YES MAYBE NO 6. Noise. Will the proposal result in: a. Increases in existing noise levels? b. Exposure of people to severe noise levels? 7. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce new light or glare? 8. Land Use. Will the proposal result in a substantial alteration of the present or planned land use of an area? 9. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result in: a. Increase in the rate or use of any natural resources? b. Substantial depletion of any nonrenewable natural resource? 10. PJsk of Upset..Wi'Il the proposal involve: ..'.. a. A risk of an explosion or the release of hazardous substances (including, but not limited to, oil, pesticides, chemicals or radiation) in the event of an accident or upset conditions? b. Possible interference with an emergency response plan or an emergency evacuation plan? !1 fl i,1 1 1. Population. Will the proposal alter the location, distribution, density, or growth rate of the human population of an area? 12. Housing. Will the proposal affect existing housing, or create a demand for additional housing? 13. Transportation/Circulation. Will the proposal result in: a. Generation of substantial additional vehicular movement? b. Effects on existing parking facilities, or demand for new parking? c. Substantial impact upon existing transportation systems? d. Alterations to present patterns of circulation or movement of people and/or goods? e. Alterations to waterborne, rail or air traffic? f. Increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles, bicyclists or pedestrians? 14. Public Services. Will the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a. need for new or altered governmental services in any of the follov~dng areas: a. Fire protection? b. Police protection? c. Schools? d. Parks or other recreational facilities? e. Maintenance i3f public facilities, including roads? f. Other governmental services? 15. Ener~,. V~511 the p~oposal result in: a. Use of substantial amounts of fuel or ener~%,? b. Substantial increase in demand upon existing sources of energy, or require the development of new sources of energy? YES MAYBE NO 16. Utilities. Will the proposal result in a need for new systems, or substantial alterations to the following utilities' a. Poxver or natural gas? b. Communications systems? c. Water? d. Sewer or septic tanks? e. Storm water drainage? f. Solid waste and disposal? 17. Human Health. Will the proposal result in: a. Creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard (excluding mental health)? b. Exposure of people to potential health h~ards? 18. Solid Waste. Will the proposal create additional solid waste requiring - disposal by the City? t9. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or view open to the public, or will the proposal result in the creation of an aesthetically offensive site open to public view? 20. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an impact upon the quality or quantity of existing recreational opportunities? 21. Cultural Resources. Will the proposal result in: a. The alteration of or the destruction ora prehistoric or historic archaeological site? Adverse ..physic. al..or aesthetic .effects to a-prehistori.c er historic ,. building, struc.ture, ot object? c. The potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique ethnic cultural values? d. Will the proposal restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area? YES [1' MAYBE NO YES MAYBE NO 22. Mandatory Findings of Significance. a. Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history' or prehistory? b. Does the project have the potential to achieve short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term, environmental goals? (A short-term impact on the environment is one which occurs in a relatively brief, definitive period of time while long-term impacts will endure well into the future). C. Does the project have impacts'which are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (A project may impact on two or more separate resources where the impact on each resource is relatively small, but where the effect of the total of those impacts on the environment is significant.) d. Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EX%LUATION SEE ATTACHMENT A IV. DETERtMINATION the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitization measures described in Attachment A attached hereto have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED. I find the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. Date STUD.F~,.~ 5 ..:,/02A January 4, 1995 Signature Name (Print) Title RITA WESTFIELD ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, CO>~[UNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 1 Project Description Supplement - In 1990, the Orange County Commuter Rail Study identified four potential commuter rail station sites in the North Irvine/Tustin area in the vicinity of Jamboree Road or Harvard Avenue and Edinger Avenue/Irvine Center Drive. In general, these four sites met the minimum size standards for a commuter rail station (five acres or more) and had the proper orientation to the AT&SF trackage. In the Orange County Commuter Rail Study, stations were assumed to require a minimum of 300 surface parking spaces, room for bus turnaround and a passenger shelter, and, at a minimum, 400 to 500 feet of frontage on the AT&SF right-of-way to accommodate a platform. These four sites were identified as Sites A, B, C and D. All sites were evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria; site suitability, noise, local land use goals, site size and accessibility. Site A - Is the preferred site and is the selected alternative for purposes of this Negative Declaration. The Orange County Commuter Rail Study ranked Site A highest in terms of physical suitability and ease of development. Sites B, C and D were withdrawn from further consideration for the following reasons: Site B - Wholly located in the City of Tustin. This site is held by the Federal Government (U.S. Marine Corps). Prior to the announced closing of MCAS, E1 Toro, this site was designated for military housing. Due to the 1999 E1 Toro Closure it will be years before the site is available as surplus and there is no guarantee that the site will be a "public benefit transfer" under the Federal disposition process. Site C- A portion of this site is located both in Tustin and Trvine "a.nd" was eliminated ''beCaUSe' it' 'lackS the '" .... outstanding access to Jamboree Road and Edinger/Irvine and is too close to residential areas. Site D- This site, located in Irvine, was eliminated because it was too close to residential areas and too small to accommodate the necessary parking. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 2 The proposed project is the acquisition of a portion of a (19.1 gross acre) parcel of land (3.66 acres) located on the north side of Edinger Avenue, west of Jamboree Road. The address of the properties is 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue, Tustin, California. The legal description of the property is a metes and bounds description, being a portion of Parcel 20 of Lot Line Adjustment No. 91-2 and Parcel 7 and 8 of Parcel Map No. 91-265. The remaining portion of the 19.1 acre parcel known as Jamboree Plaza is presently developed with auto related uses and a fast food restaurant and will be developed with other industrial/office uses in the future. The project site is situated in an urban area at the northwest corner of Edinger Avenue and Jamboree Road. The U.S. Marine Corps Air Station - Tustin, slated for closure in 1997, is located to the south and west (Presently Zoned Public & Institutional) across Edinger Avenue, the AT&SF Railroad and various industrial uses to the north (Zoned PC-IND) and vacant land, in the city of Irvine, (Zoned Public and Institutional) to the east across Jamboree Road. The acquisition of the property is necessary to develop the Tustin Metrolink Commuter Rail Station to provide access to Metrolink service along the Oceanside to Los Angeles route. Although no detailed development plans for the Rail Station have been prepared at this time, the area to be acquired will be improved for a parking lot for 300-325 parking spaces to serve the commuter rail users. Platforms, canopies, ticket vending machines, seating areas, track work; and double track rail crossing (at-grade or grade separated) will be constructed within the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) Right-of-Way. As the plans are developed and the specifics of construction of the parking lot construction, lighting, landscaping, circulation, access and platform are available, any necessary additional environmental assessment required by the California Environmental Quglity Act (CEQA)..will be undertaken. This Negative Declaration "'rs. ~n'a'n'~i'~is fbf'"P~6pe~fY"~qu~i't~O~ p~rpOs~S'~n'ly''. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Earth Items A throuqh G - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not have an impact on geologic substructures, soil erosion or exposure of people or property to any geological hazards, as there will be no grading activity at this time proposed with the acquisition of the property. A Phase I and Phase II Transactional Audit report was prepared for the entire site in May, 1990. At the close of escrow, the property will not be in violation of any federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation relating to industrial hygiene or to the environmental conditions on, under or about the property, including, but not limited to, soil and groundwater conditions except as otherwise disclosed by the existing Phase I and Phase II analysis. Any update of such Phase I and Phase II Analysis deemed to be necessary will be prepared, as well as any other environmental investigations that the City may elect to make or obtain with respect to the property. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Open Space/ .,.. .,..~ Conse~vatioD/RecreatiOn-~.Element.'. 2. Air Items A throuqh C - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in deterioration of ambient air quality, objectionable odors, or alterations of air movement, moisture, or temperatures. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 4 Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source SCAQMD Guidelines Tustin General Plan, Air Quality Sub-Element · Water Items A throuqh I - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in any of the following: changes in currents or water movements; alterations to the flow of flood waters; discharge into surface water; alteration of the rate or direction of flow of groundwater; reduction in the amount of water available for public water supplies; and/or exposure to water related hazards. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan, Public Safety & Open Space/Conservation/Recreation Elements · Plant Life Items A throuqh D - "N°'' A property acquisition by itself will not result in any of the following: changes in the diversity of species, or number of species of plants; reduction in the number of any unique, rare or endangered species of plants; introduction of any new species of plants; and/or reduction in the acreage of any agricultural crop. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 5 Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source- Field verification " Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element · Animal Life Items A thouch D - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in any of the following: changes in the diversity of species or number of species of animals; reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of animals; introduction of new species of animals; and/or deterioration to existing fish or wildlife habitat. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project.' Source- Field verification Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element 6. Noise .... ~..: . .... ,'. : . ... . .. .-. . ....... · . . ... .... Item A. and B - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result on increased noise nor will it expose people to severe noise levels. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 6 Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source- Field verification Tustin General Plan Noise Element Lights and Glare "No" A property acquisition by itself will not produce new light or glare. - Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. · Source: Land Use Field verification Tustin General Plan Land Use Element A property acquisition by itself will not result in a substantial alteration of the present or planned land use of the area. · Prior to the approval of the.sta.tion-~design, the.: City-'wiLl ~" ........ ' ' 'pr0c~ss'~n"'A~en~'~~ ~he"Jamb0ree P~aza'Planned Community (PC) District regulations to include a commuter rail station as a permitted land use and establish deve!opmen~ standards. The commuter rail station site is a portion of a larger 19.1 acre site known as Jamboree Plaza, presently developed with auto related uses and a fast food restaurant. Jamboree Plaza is situated in an urban area at the northwest corner of Edinger Avenue and Jamboree Road. MCAS, Tustin, is located to the south and west across Edinger Avenue. The AT&SF Railroad and various industrial uses are to the north and vacant industrially zoned land to the east across Jamboree Road. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 7 Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source- Tustin General Plan Land Use Element Southern California Regional Rail Authority - Adopted Plan · Natural Resources Items A and B - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in an increase in the rate of use of any natural resources or substantial depletion of any nonrenewable natural resource. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element · Items A and B - "Maybe" A property acquisition by itself will not involve a risk of explosion or release of hazardous substances, nor will there be possible interference with the City's emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan, in the event of an accident or upset conditions. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 8 A Phase I and Phase II Transactional Audit report was prepared for the entire site in May, 1990. At the close of escrow, the property will not be in violation of any federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation relating to industrial hygiene or to the environmental conditions on, under or about the property, including, but not limited to, soil and groundwater conditions, except as otherwise disclosed the existing Phase I and Phase II analysis. Any update of such Phase I and Phase II Analysis deemed to be necessary will be prepared as well as any other environmental investigations that the City may elect to make or obtain with respect to the property. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project· design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Public Safety Element 11. Population "No" A property acquisition by itself will not alter the location, distribution, density or growth rate of the human population of the area. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA.will ~be..prepared ~or .the ~onstrU~tio~ and"en~i't'!e~eh~'phas~"of'th'e Project. · Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Land Use Element SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 9 12. Housing "No" A property acquisition by itself will not affect existing housing nor create a demand for new housing. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source- Field verification Tus~in General Plan Housing Element 13. Transportation/Circulation Items A throuah F - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in the following: generation of substantia/ additional vehicular movement; effects on existing parking facilities, or demands for future parking; alterations to waterborne, or air traffic; and/or increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles, bicyclists or pedestrians. Alternate transportation forms (rail) will be a beneficial affect of this project. However, on and off-site circulation and traffic will be evaluated as part of the overall design of the project. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that · time ad~.t~onal'-'environment'a-1 ~nalySi~s.req~ired~by '~EQA· Will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the' Project. Source- Field verification Tustin General Plan Circulation and Land Use Element Southern California Regional Rail Authority - Adopted Plan SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 10 14. Public Services Items A,B,C,D, and F - "No"; E- "Maybe" A property acquisition by'itself will not result in a need for new or altered governmental services. Acquisition will require the City to assume certain maintenance costs for weed removal. This cost is considered minimal and not significant. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Public Safety and Open Space/ Conservation/Recreation Elements 15. Energy Items A and B - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in use of substantial amounts of fuel or energy nor a substantial increase in demand upon existing sources of energy, or require the development of new sources of energy. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis r. equired by. CEQA will be' ~r~a~' fo~ 'th'e "~hst~uc'%'ion: a~d "~'t i~ i emen't'pha.s'~ 'o f" 'the" Project. Source: Field Verification Tustin General Plan Public Safety Element SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 11 16. Utilities Items A throuqh F - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in a need for new utility systems nor require substantial alterations to existing systems. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that · time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. ' Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element 17. Human Health Items A and B - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in the creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard, nor will it result in exposure of people to potential health hazards. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will ~be'ptepared"'f~r the Construction a~'eht~t'le~ent'Phas~'of the'' Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Public Safety Element SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 12 18. Solid Waste "No" A property acquisition by itself will not create additional solid waste requiring disposal. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element 19. Aesthetics "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or view open to the public, nor will it result in the creation of an aesthetically offensive site open to public view. The site will remain vacant until future development of the commuter rail station which will require separate environmental documentation. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will b'e prepared for ~h~' const~uc~'i~n and entitlement phase o~ the Project. Source: Field verification Tustin General Plan Land Use Element SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 13 20. Recreation "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in an impact upon the quality or quantity of existing recreational opportunities. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source: Field verification City of Tustin Community Services Department Tustin General Plan Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element 21. Cultural Resources Items A throuqh D - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in any of the following: alteration or destruction of a prehistoric or historic archeological site, building, structure or object; potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique cultural values; and/or restriction of existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area. Historically, the site was previously part of MCAS Tustin and, · more recently, was 'used' for agricultural purposes~ ' At' the time of development of the improved portion of the site in 1991; no archeological or culturally significant items were discovered. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. SECTION III Discussion of Environmental Evaluation Property Acquisition: 3075-3097 Edinger Avenue January 4, 1995 Page 14 Source- Field verification City of Tustin Cultural Resources Survey Report Tustin General Plan, Open Space/Conservation/ Recreation Element 22. Mandatory Findings of Significance Items A throuqh D - "No" A property acquisition by itself will not result in any significant adverse impacts on the environment, will not have the potential of achieving a short term environmental goal to the disadvantage of long term goals, does not have limited individual impacts which are cumulatively significant, nor will it cause substantial adverse effects, either directly or indirectly, on human beings. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, a final project design for the Commuter Rail station will be prepared, at that time additional environmental analysis required by CEQA will be prepared for the construction and entitlement phase of the Project. Source' Field verification Tustin General Plan . ~ City of Tustin, Community Development Department RW: br; mp\Comra i [. env JAMBOREE ROAD 0 CITY OF TUST£N