HomeMy WebLinkAboutReso 116-21 Approving an Addendum to the Eastern Dublin Environmental Impact Report and 2005 Dublin Ranch West Supplemental Environmental Impact Report and Approving the Wallis Ranch Community Park Conceptual Plan (CIP No. PK0421)
Reso. No. 116-21, Item 8.1, Adopted 09/21/2021 Page 1 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 116 - 21
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
APPROVING AN ADDENDUM TO THE EASTERN DUBLIN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT AND THE 2005 DUBLIN RANCH WEST SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT, AND APPROVING THE WALLIS RANCH COMMUNITY PARK
CONCEPTUAL PLAN (CIP NO. PK0421)
WHEREAS, the Wallis Ranch Community Park project, CIP No. PK0421, is located in the
eastern portion of the City of Dublin for which the City of Dublin adopted the Eastern Dublin
General Plan Amendment/Specific Plan to provide a planning framework for land uses, including
recreational facilities and community parks; and
WHEREAS, on May 10, 1993, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 51-93, certifying
the Addendum and the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Eastern Dublin General Plan
Amendment and Specific plan (“Eastern Dublin EIR”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section
15168 (SCH: 91103064); and
WHEREAS, on March 15, 2005, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 42-05 certifying
the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Dublin Ranch West Project, and adopting
the mitigation findings, findings regarding alternatives, the Statement of Overriding
Considerations, and the Mitigation Monitoring Program (“2005 Dublin Ranch West Supplemental
EIR”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15168 (SCH: 2003022082); and
WHEREAS, the proposed improvements at Wallis Ranch Community Park project include
lighted sports courts (tennis, pickleball, and basketball), play areas, dog park, fitness area,
restroom structures, open turf recreation area, picnic areas, parking, and landscaping; and
WHEREAS, consistent with the City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the
project site would be developed as an “Active Community Park”; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project would not include facilities that would substantially
increase the intensity of use at the project site or draw visitors from the surrounding region; and
WHEREAS, the City prepared an initial study checklist pursuant to Public Resources Code
Section 21166, and CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15164, subdivision (a), to evaluate
whether the proposed improvements would result in any new impacts or impacts that would be
more severe than were evaluated and disclosed in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin
Ranch West Supplemental EIR; and
WHEREAS, CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, subdivision (a) provides that the lead
agency or a responsible agency shall prepare an addendum to a previously certified
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) or Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) if some changes or
additions are necessary but none of the conditions described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15162
calling for preparation of a subsequent EIR or MND have occurred (CEQA Guidelines § 15164,
subdivision (a)); and
Reso. No. 116-21, Item 8.1, Adopted 09/21/2021 Page 2 of 2
WHEREAS, pursuant to the requirements of CEQA, the City prepared an Addendum for
the project (the “Addendum”) shown as Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by
reference; and
WHEREAS, the Addendum reflected the City’s independent judgment and analysis of the
potential environmental impacts of the proposed improvements for the Wallis Ranch Community
Park project, and concluded that the project would not result in any new significant impacts or
substantially increase the severity of any significant impacts identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR
and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West Supplemental EIR, and no other CEQA standards for
supplemental review are met; and
WHEREAS, the Addendum, checklist, and attached documents constitute substantial
evidence supporting the conclusion that preparation of a subsequent MND is not required; and
WHEREAS, the City Council considered the Addendum and all above-referenced reports,
recommendations, and testimony to evaluate the Wallis Ranch Community Park Conceptual
Design.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Dublin does
hereby approve the Addendum to the Eastern Dublin Environmental Impact Report and the 2005
Dublin Ranch West Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (attached as Exhibit A and
incorporated herein by reference).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Dublin does
hereby approve the Wallis Ranch Community Park Conceptual Design (attached as Exhibit B
and incorporated herein by reference).
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of September 2021, by the following
vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Hu, Josey, Kumagai, McCorriston and Mayor Hernandez
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
City Clerk
Wallis Ranch Park Project
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin
Environmental Impact Report and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
September 7, 2021
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City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 1
Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Background 5
Project Description 7
Environmental Setting 9
Environmental Checklist 11
Explanation of Environmental Checklist Responses 13
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Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 2
List of Figures
Figure 1: Regional Location ......................................................................................................... 143
Figure 2: Aerial Photograph of Project Site and Surrounding Land Uses ................................... 144
Figure 3: Conceptual Park Plan – Alternative A .......................................................................... 145
Figure 4: Conceptual Park Plan – Alternative B .......................................................................... 146
Note: All figures are included at the end of the document.
List of Tables
Table A: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria ...................................................................... 101
Table B: City of Dublin Land Use/Noise Compatibility Standards (dBA CNEL) ........................... 102
Table C: Typical Maximum Construction Equipment Noise Levels (Lmax) ................................. 105
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Wallis Ranch Park Project
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin Environmental Impact Report and
the 2005 Dublin Ranch West Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report
Introduction
This Initial Study has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and assesses the potential environmental impacts of
implementing the proposed project described below. The Initial Study consists of a completed
environmental checklist and a brief explanation of the environmental topics addressed in the
checklist.
Because the proposed project is generally based on the land use designations established by
the City of Dublin General Plan, this Initial Study relies on a Program Environmental Impact
Report (EIR) prepared for the Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment (Eastern Extended
Planning Area) and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan (Eastern Dublin EIR), 1 which evaluated the
development of over 3,300 acres in the eastern part of the City. The Eastern Dublin EIR was
certified by the City in 1993. Two addenda to the Eastern Dublin EIR were subsequently
approved by the City.
In 2005, a Supplemental EIR (2005 SEIR) to the Eastern Dublin EIR was prepared for the Dublin
Ranch West Project, also known Wallis Ranch, as well as other smaller properties adjacent to
the Dublin Ranch West site. The Dublin Ranch West SEIR was certified by the City in 2005. The
Dublin Ranch West SEIR analyzed annexation of the property to the City and the Dublin San
Ramon Services District, as well as development of 1,034 residential units on the site. The City
ultimately approved a total of 935 residential units.
In 2014, the City adopted an Addendum for the Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project (2014
Addendum), supported by an Initial Study checklist, to amend the previous land entitlements to
allow for development of 809 residential units at various densities and product types, as well as
parks, open space, public/semi‐public uses and infrastructure improvements. The proposed
development plan evaluated in the 2014 Addendum identified the location for a Neighborhood
1 Dublin, City of. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse No. 91103064, Eastern Dublin
General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan. December.
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Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 4
Park in the southern portion of the site, adjacent to Tassajara Road; however, details regarding
the proposed park design were not known or evaluated in the 2014 Addendum.
The subject of this Initial Study is the Wallis Ranch Park project, which includes construction
and operation of proposed improvements on an approximately 9‐acre site within the Wallis
Ranch/Trumark residential development, located in eastern Dublin. Proposed improvements
include lighted sports courts (tennis and pickleball), basketball courts, play areas, dog park,
fitness area, restroom, open turf recreation area, picnic areas, parking, and landscaping.
Consistent with the City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the project site would be
developed as an “Active Community Park,” rather than a “Neighborhood Park” as designated in
the prior environmental documents. However, the proposed project would not include facilities
that would substantially increase the intensity of use at the project site or draw visitors from
the surrounding region.
This Addendum, checklist, and attached supporting documents have been prepared to
determine whether and to what extent the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 SEIR prepared by
the City of Dublin remain sufficient to address potential impacts of the proposed Wallis Ranch
Park project, or whether additional documentation is required under California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code [PRC], § 21000, et seq.).
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21166, and CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and
15164, subdivision (a), the attached checklist has been prepared to evaluate the proposed
project. The attached checklist uses the standard environmental checklist categories provided
in Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines. CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, subdivision (a) provides
that the lead agency or a responsible agency shall prepare an addendum to a previously
certified Environmental Impact Report (EIR) or MND if some changes or additions are necessary
but none of the conditions described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 calling for preparation
of a subsequent EIR or MND have occurred (CEQA Guidelines § 15164, subd. (a)).
This Addendum, checklist, and attached documents constitute substantial evidence supporting
the conclusion that preparation of a subsequent MND is not required prior to approval of the
above‐referenced permits by responsible and trustee agencies and provides the required
documentation under CEQA.
Project Title
Wallis Ranch Park Project
Lead Agency Name and Address
City of Dublin
Public Works Department
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
Contact Person and Phone Number
Rosemary Alex
Parks & Facilities Development Coordinator
Phone: 925/833‐6630
rosemary.alex@dublin.ca.gov
Project Sponsor
City of Dublin
General Plan Designation
Neighborhood Park
Zoning
Planned Development (PD) Ordinance No. 11‐14 and PD Ordinance No. 09‐15
Project Approvals
The City proposes to approve the conceptual master plan for the Wallis Ranch Park Project.
Background
Project Location and Context
The proposed project site is in the City of Dublin, Alameda County, California and consists of an
approximately 9‐acre site within the Wallis Ranch/Trumark residential development, located in
eastern Dublin (Assessor’s Parcel Numbers [APNs]: 986‐0045‐018‐00, 986‐0045‐017‐00, and
986‐0045‐012‐00). The project is located west of Tassajara Road, between Rutherford Road and
Wallis Ranch Drive. Tassajara Creek bisects the site.
A conservation easement has been established on both sides of the creek to protect its value
for open space, storm drainage facilities, and water quality treatment. Surrounding land uses
include residential development to the north, undeveloped open space to the west and south,
and Tassajara Road and Quarry Lane School to the east.
Figures 1 and 2 provide the Regional Location and Aerial Photograph of the Project Site and
Surrounding Land Uses, respectively.
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Prior Environmental Review Documents
The project has been included in several previous CEQA documents, as noted below.
Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan (State Clearinghouse
No. 1991103064). A Program Environmental Impact Report for the Eastern Dublin General Plan
Amendment (Eastern Extended Planning Area) and the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan (EDSP) was
certified by the City Council in 1993 by Resolution No. 51‐93. This document and its related
Addenda collectively are referred to as the Eastern Dublin EIR. The Eastern Dublin EIR evaluated
the following impacts:
Land Use; Population, Employment and Housing; Traffic and Circulation; Community
Services and Facilities; Sewer, Water and Storm Drainage; Soils, Geology and Seismicity;
Biological Resources; Visual Resources; Cultural Resources; Noise; Air Quality; and Fiscal
Considerations.
The City adopted a Statement of Overriding Considerations (Resolution No. 53–93) for the
following impacts:
Cumulative loss of agriculture and open space land, cumulative traffic, extension of
certain community facilities (natural gas, electric and telephone service), consumption
of non ‐ renewable natural resources, increases in energy uses through increased water
treatment and disposal and through operation of the water distribution system,
inducement of substantial growth and concentration of population, earthquake ground
shaking, loss or degradation of botanically sensitive habitat, regional air quality, noise
and alteration of visual character.
The Eastern Dublin EIR was challenged in court and was found to be legally adequate. Two
addenda documents to the Eastern Dublin EIR have been approved by the City as described
above.
Dublin Ranch West Supplemental EIR (State Clearinghouse No. 200322082). In 2005, a
Supplemental EIR (SEIR) to the Eastern Dublin EIR was prepared for the Dublin Ranch West
Project, also known as Wallis Ranch, as well as other smaller properties adjacent to the Dublin
Ranch West project site. The Dublin Ranch West SEIR was certified by the City on March 15, 205
by City Council Resolution No. 42‐05. The Dublin Ranch West SEIR analyzed annexation of the
property to the City of Dublin and Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD), amendments to
the Dublin General Plan and Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, a Planned Development (PD)
prezoning, and Stage 1 Development Plan. Following certification of the Dublin Ranch West
SEIR, the City approved a PD rezoning with related Stage 2 Development Plan for the site, a Site
Development Review (SDR) permit, a vesting tentative subdivision map, and a Development
Agreement.
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The Dublin Ranch West SEIR analyzed traffic and transportation, as well as the other
environmental impacts associated with development of 1,034 residential units on the site,
although the City ultimately approved 935 residential units. The Dublin Ranch West SEIR
determined that the project would exceed Bay Area Air Quality Management District air quality
standards, resulting in significant and unavoidable impacts on a project and cumulative level.
Wallis Ranch/Trumark Addendum (2014 Addendum). An Addendum, supported by an Initial
Study checklist, was prepared to amend the previous land entitlements to allow for
development of 809 residential units at various densities and product types, as well as parks,
open space, public/semi‐public uses and infrastructure improvements. The 2014 Addendum
and related Statement of Overriding Considerations was adopted by City Council Resolution No.
67‐14 on May 20, 2014. The proposed development plan evaluated in the Wallis
Ranch/Trumark Addendum identified the location for a Neighborhood Park in the southern
portion of the site, adjacent to Tassajara Road.
Project Description
The City of Dublin proposes to construct and operate a new community park near the Wallis
Ranch development in Eastern Dublin. The proposed project elements, construction
methodology and operation and maintenance activities for the park are described below.
Project Elements
In spring 2021, the City, working with Callander Associates, began a community‐based design
process for the future park at Wallis Ranch. The planning process included several public
meetings and an online survey to obtain feedback from the community regarding the features
that were desired for a future park near the Wallis Ranch community. Based on the community
outreach process, priority amenities identified for inclusion at the park include: lighted tennis
facility, pickleball courts, a dog park, and a restroom. Other proposed facilities include play
areas, walking paths, turf open space, and basketball courts. The community process has
resulted in two conceptual designs (Figures 3A and 3B), which include the following community‐
identified improvements:
Lighted Sports Courts. The Lighted Sports Courts area would be located along Tassajara Road
and would include tennis and pickleball courts. Courts would be lit for evening use. The lighting
would be set on a timer and would automatically turn off at 10:00 p.m. A new restroom would
be installed near the Lighted Sports Courts. Parking for the Lighted Sports Courts would be from
a new 20‐25 car parking area along Rutherford Drive. Basketball courts would also be provided
either adjacent to the Lighted Sports Courts or across Rutherford Drive.
Dog Park. A Dog Park would be provided either at the south end of the park near the Tassajara
Road/Rutherford Drive intersection or in the northern portion of the park, west of Tassajara
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Creek. The area would be fenced to allow voice‐controlled dogs to be off leash. The dog park
would be separated to allow for rotation of turf maintenance. Infrastructure would also be
provided (e.g. water).
Open Turf Recreation Area. An open turf area would be provided in the northern portion of the
project site between Wallis Ranch Drive and Rutherford Drive. It would be accessed via an entry
plaza and pedestrian walkways connecting it to other park elements. This area would be used
as an open, flexible space for passive recreation use (such as picnicking), as well as active
recreation. Designated picnic areas would also be provided within the park site to
accommodate group gatherings.
Tot Play Area/Youth Play Area. Play areas are proposed either at the northernmost boundary
of the project site (Alternative A) or adjacent to the Lighted Sports Complex (Alternative B). The
proposed tot playground would be geared toward children aged 2‐5 and would be enclosed
with a 4‐foot‐tall fence. Another play area would be provided for children aged 5‐12 .
Parking and Circulation. Consistent with City of Dublin standards, a small parking area 20‐
25stalls) would be provided off of Rutherford Drive north of the proposed Lighted Sports
Courts. On‐street parking would also be available.
The majority of the proposed park would be located along the west side of Tassajara Road,
south of Tassajara Creek. Access to the park would be provided via Wallis Ranch Drive and
Rutherford Drive from Tassajara Road. The proposed project would also provide pedestrian and
bicycle pathways to connect the various park improvements.
Lighting. Additional LED pathway safety lighting, fixtures, and poles would be installed along
pathways and parking lots for security lighting. As described above, new lights at the sports
courts would also be installed to accommodate evening use. Consistent with City of Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.40, court lighting would not exceed a maximum height of 20 feet and
would be direct downward to minimize spillover onto adjacent properties. Lights would be
placed on a timed controller and would not be used past the hour of 10:00 p.m.
Landscaping and Trees. Trees, shrubs, and groundcovers would be used throughout the park.
The exact species have not yet been determined, but most would be either native species or
drought tolerant species for water conservation. The turf grass areas would require typical
maintenance such as fertilizer and irrigation. An automatic irrigation system would be designed
to minimize water use and be adapted to weather conditions.
Utilities and Stormwater. The proposed project would connect to existing utility infrastructure
in the project area. Water and sewer mains are located along Tassajara Road. In compliance
with the C.3 Provisions of the Municipal Regional Permit, stormwater collection and treatment
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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systems such a swales, detention basins and storm drain lines would be included to address
drainage within the project site.
Construction
Construction is anticipated to commence in spring 2022 and would extend for approximately 8
months. Construction would require use of typical construction equipment for grading the site
and installing park facilities. Construction would occur daily during daylight hours, from
approximately 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Construction staging would occur on the project site.
Construction workers, equipment and deliveries would access the site via Tassajara Road. Cut
and fill from project grading would be balanced on‐site.
Operation and Maintenance
The proposed project would be open daily to informal use, including picnicking, walking,
jogging, bicycling, and use of general park facilities. Like most of the City’s parks, the proposed
park would be open from sunrise until one hour after sunset. The lighted court would close at
10:00 p.m.
The City of Dublin Public Works Department would manage the design and construction of the
proposed park, as well as ongoing maintenance and operations. Maintenance activities would
be performed by the City’s contracted service provider. Maintenance activities would include
mowing, facility cleaning, vegetation management, and maintenance of recreation facilities.
Environmental Setting
Project Site and Existing Facilities
As described above, the project site encompasses 8.75 acres of land on three parcels within the
Wallis Ranch residential development. All three parcels are currently undeveloped and have
been rough graded. Topography of the site is relatively flat with views of the hillsides to the
west.
Tassajara Creek and its associated riparian woodland bisects the project site. The creek corridor
is protected by an existing conservation easement. Two bridge crossings of Tassajara Creek
were constructed as part of the residential development project, which provide vehicular
connections to the park parcels. Consistent with the prior environmental documents, barriers
have been installed along the boundaries of the riparian corridor to prevent intrusion into the
protected area and to prevent migration of sensitive wildlife into the development area.
Street trees and other landscape plantings, sidewalk improvements, and street lights line
Tassajara Road, Wallis Ranch Road, and Rutherford Drive, which border the project site. A
sculptural element has been installed at the intersection of Tassajara Road and Rutherford
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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Drive and various entry elements have also been installed at the intersection of Tassajara Road
and Wallis Ranch Road. These elements would be retained and have been incorporated into the
project design.
Surrounding Land Uses
As shown in Figure 2, surrounding land uses include residential development to the north,
undeveloped open space to the west and south, and Tassajara Road and Quarry Lane School to
the east.
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Environmental Checklist
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected by the Project
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project,
involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the
checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics Agricultural and Forestry
Resources Air Quality
Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology / Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards & Hazardous
Materials
Hydrology / Water Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources
Noise Population / Housing Public Services
Recreation Transportation / Traffic Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities / Service Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of
Significance
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Determination
On 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 any new or substantially more significant effect in this
case because all potentially significant effects: (a) have been analyzed adequately in
earlier CEQA documents pursuant to applicable standards; and (b)have been avoided
or mitigated pursuant to those earlier CEQA documents, including revisions or
mitigation measures that are imposed on the proposed Project, except for those
impacts which were identified as significant and unavoidable and for which
Statements of Overriding Considerations were previously adopted by the City. An
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin Environmental Impact Report, and the 2005 Dublin
Ranch West Supplemental Environmental Impact Report will be prepared.
X
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment and
an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a potentially significant or a potentially
significant unless mitigated impact on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has
been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier
analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is
required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed
adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable
standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or
NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed
upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.
CITY OF DUBLIN
_________________________________ _____________________________
Name, Title Date
September 8, 2021
Andrew C. Russell, Public Works Director
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Explanation of Environmental Checklist Responses
Aesthetics
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No New
Impact
1. AESTHETICS. Would the project:
a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
X
b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including but not
limited to trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings
within a state scenic highway?
X
c. Substantially degrade the existing visual character or
quality of public views of the site and its surroundings?
(Public views are those that are experienced from publicly
accessible vantage point). If the project is in an urbanized
area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and
other regulations governing scenic quality?
X
d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare which
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
X
Environmental Setting
The project site is located in Dublin, within the proposed Wallis Ranch development. The
project site consists of three parcels and is bounded to the west by undeveloped hillsides, to
the north and east by residential development, to the east by Tassajara Road and to the south
by undeveloped open space. All three parcels are currently undeveloped. Topography of the
site is relatively flat with views of the hillsides to the west. Due to intervening development and
site topography, scenic vistas from the project site are limited.
Tassajara Creek and its associated riparian woodland bisects the project site. The creek corridor
is protected by an existing conservation easement; therefore, trees and other vegetation within
this area would be preserved. Street trees and other landscape plantings line Tassajara Road,
Wallis Ranch Road, and Rutherford Drive, which border the project site.
The project site is located in a developed area. Streetlights, vehicle head and tail lights on area
roadways, and lighting associated with adjacent development are the existing sources of light
and glare in the project area.
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Regulatory Framework
State Regulations
State Scenic Highways Program
The California Department of Transportation’s (Caltrans) Landscape Architecture Program
administers the Scenic Highway Program contained in the Streets and Highways Code, Sections
260–263. The purpose of the program is to protect and enhance the natural scenic beauty of
California highways and adjacent corridors through special classifications. State Highways are
classified as either Officially Listed or Eligible. A highway may be designated scenic based on the
visibility of the natural landscape to travelers, the scenic quality of the landscape, and the
extent to which development intrudes upon the traveler's enjoyment of the view. According to
Caltrans’ California Scenic Highway Mapping System, the closest officially designated State
scenic highway to the project area and project site is I‐580.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
As described in the Circulation and Scenic Highways Element of the City of Dublin General Plan,
I‐580, I‐680, and Tassajara Road were designated as scenic routes by Alameda County in 1966.
Per the City of Dublin General Plan policies, design review would be required for all projects
visible from a designated scenic route in order to enhance a positive image of Dublin as seen by
through travelers. The following policies related to visual resources are applicable to the
proposed project:
Implementing Policy 5.7.1.A.1. Exercise design review of all projects visible from a
designated scenic route.
Implementing Policy 5.7.1.A.2. Implement the Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridors Policies and
Standards for projects within the Eastern Extended Planning Area.
City of Dublin Municipal Code
Chapter 8.104, Site Development Review, of the City of Dublin Municipal Code establishes the
procedure for approving, conditionally approving, or denying Site Development Review permits
to promote orderly, attractive and harmonious development for new development projects
that are compatible with surrounding properties and neighborhoods. Adopted Site
Development Review Guidelines are used to guide Site Development Review applications.
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Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to standardized tract
development, obscuring distinctive natural features, alteration of hillsides, ridges, and
watercourses, alteration of Dublin’s visual identity as a freestanding city, scenic vistas, and
scenic routes. All of these impacts were determined to be less than significant with
implementation of mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR. The Eastern Dublin
EIR determined that impacts associated with the alteration of the rural/open space visual
character of the project area and alteration of the visual character of the flatlands would be
significant and unavoidable. The following mitigation measures would apply to the proposed
project:
MM 3.8/1.0 Establish a visually distinctive community which preserves the character
of the natural landscape by protecting key visual elements and maintaining views from
major travel corridors and public spaces.
MM 3.8/2.0 Implement the land use plan for the Project site which emphasizes
retention of the predominant natural features, such as ridgelines and watercourses, and
sense of openness that characterize eastern Dublin.
MM 3.8/3.0 Preserve the natural open beauty of the hills and other important visual
resources, such as creeks and major stands of vegetation.
MM 3.8/4.0 Visual impacts of extensive grading shall be reduced by sensitive
engineering design, by using gradual transition from graded areas to natural slopes and
by revegetation.
MM 3.8/4.1 Alterations of existing natural contours shall be minimized. Grading shall
maintain the natural topography as much as possible. Grading beyond actual
development areas shall be for remedial purposes only.
MM 3.8/4.4 Graded slopes shall be re‐contoured to resemble existing landforms in
the immediate area. Cut and graded slopes shall be revegetated with native vegetation
suitable to hillside environments.
MM 3.8/4.5 The height of cut and fill slopes shall be minimized to the greatest degree
possible. Grades for cut and fill slopes should be 3:1 or less whenever feasible.
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MM 3.8/5.1 Structures shall not be located where they would obstruct scenic views or
appear to extend above an identified scenic ridgetop (i.e., silhouetted) when viewed
from designated scenic routes.
MM 3.8/6.0 Tassajara Creek and other stream corridors are visual features that have
special scenic value for the planning area. The visual character of these corridors should
be protected from unnecessary alteration or disturbance and adjoining development
should be sites to maintain visual access to the stream corridors.
MM 3.8/7.0 Preserve views of designated open space areas.
MM 3.8/8.1 The City should require that projects with potential impacts on scenic
corridors to submit a detailed visual analysis with development project application.
Applicants will be required to submit graphic simulations and/or section drawn from
affected travel corridors through the parcel in question, representing typical views of
the parcel from scenic routes. The graphic depiction of the location and massing of the
structure and associated landscaping can then be used to adjust the project design to
minimize the visual impacts.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Aesthetics were addressed in the Initial Study for the SEIR. No potentially significant aesthetic
impacts or mitigation measures were identified.
2014 Addendum
No new or more severe impacts related to visual resources than were previously analyzed in
the prior environmental documents were identified in the 2014 Addendum. The 2014
Addendum determined that with adherence to the mitigation measures identified in the
Eastern Dublin EIR and the visual policies contained in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, no new
impacts would occur.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Scenic vistas, views
No New Impact. A scenic vista is defined as a viewpoint that provides expansive views of a
highly valued landscape for the benefit of the general public. According to the Eastern Dublin
Specific Plan, views within the planning area are dominated by rolling hills. Long‐range views of
scenic vistas are available from the flatlands near I‐580 and higher elevations; however,
topographic conditions create vistas which are constrained. As described above, the project site
is relatively flat and the surrounding area is largely developed with residential uses allowing for
limited views of the surrounding landscape. However, the hillsides to the west can be seen from
the project site.
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The proposed project would result in the development of the project area with a park. Visible
elements of the proposed project would include the lighted sports courts, basketball courts,
play areas, turf area, walkways, landscaping and lighting. Proposed improvements would not
include any tall structures or landscaping that would reduce, obstruct, or degrade scenic vistas.
The most evident new feature within the viewshed would be the sports courts lights, which
would extend approximately 20 feet high. These poles would be visible around the perimeter of
the courts during daytime hours. However, due to their slender, vertical appearance, they
would not be of such physical prominence that their presence would significantly affect a scenic
vista. In addition, the sports courts would be located adjacent to Tassajara Road and proposed
lights would be consistent in visual character with existing street lighting.
Construction activities would be visible from adjacent uses and public roadways. However, the
equipment required for construction would only be visible temporarily.
The Eastern Dublin EIR determined that implementation of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
would alter the character of existing scenic vistas and potentially obscure important sightlines
(Impact 3.8/I). With implementation of Mitigation Measure 3.8/7.0, which requires the City to
preserve views of designated open space areas and to complete a visual assessment and
guidelines for the Eastern Dublin area, this impact was reduced to a less‐than‐significant level.
The proposed project would include development of park improvements in the same location
as was previously analyzed in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. As
described above, upon completion, project elements would be at grade or low‐standing (e.g.,
up to 20 feet tall). The mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the visual
policies in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan would apply to the proposed project. Therefore,
impacts associated with the proposed project would not result in new impacts to scenic vistas
or substantially increase the severity of impacts analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Scenic resources
No New Impact. No designated State scenic highways are located near the project site. The
nearest eligible State scenic highway to the project area is I‐580, which is approximately 1.7
miles south of the project site. However, Tassajara Road, which borders the site to the east has
been designated as a scenic route by Alameda County.
Implementation of the project would not substantially damage scenic resources within view of
a scenic route. The majority of improvements would be at‐grade and would not impair scenic
views and the natural vegetation associated with Tassajara Creek would be preserved. New
landscaping and turf areas would be provided as part of project improvements.
The Eastern Dublin EIR determined that implementation of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan had
the potential to alter visual resources along scenic routes, including Tassajara Road (Impact
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3.8/J). With implementation of Mitigation Measure 3.8/8.0 and 8.1 which requires the City to
adopt scenic corridor policies and review procedures for projects within the scenic corridor
viewshed and to require a detailed visual analysis for projects with potential impacts on scenic
corridors, this impact was determined to be less than significant.
The proposed project would include development of park improvements in the same location
as was previously analyzed in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. No
substantial damage to scenic resources within a scenic corridor would occur as a result of
implementation of the proposed project. The mitigation measures identified in the Eastern
Dublin EIR and the visual policies in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan would apply to the
proposed project. Therefore, impacts associated with the proposed project would not result in
new impacts to scenic routes or substantially increase the severity of impacts analyzed in the
prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(c) Substantially degrade the visual character of public views of the site or surrounding area
No New Impact. Goals and policies in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan promote the preservation
of the City’s rural and natural character and the regulation of development in rural areas. The
project site is located in an area designated for park uses and surrounded by residential
development and undeveloped open space areas. Implementation of the proposed project
would provide a park to serve this residential area.
Development of the proposed project would change the existing visual character of the project
area and vicinity by developing the existing vacant land into a community park. The proposed
project would result in the development of public open space areas, including walkways, picnic
areas, recreation facilities (e.g., courts, play areas), and landscaping, enhancing the visual
character of the project site. Proposed improvements would generally be at‐grade or low‐
standing. The proposed project would preserve existing visual features on the project site (e.g.,
sculpture at the intersection of Tassajara Road and Rutherford Drive, Tassajara Creek riparian
corridor) and provide new visual elements (e.g., entries, landscaping) to enhance and
complement park improvements.
As described above, the Eastern Dublin EIR determined that the substantial alteration of the
existing rural and open space qualities that characterize Eastern Dublin (Impact 3.8/B) would
result in a significant unavoidable impact despite implementation of Mitigation Measure 3.8/2.
The proposed project would include development of a community park on the same site as was
previously analyzed in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. The proposed
project would preserve the Tassajara Creek corridor, consistent with the requirements of the
conservation easement and would improve the visual quality and character of the project area
through development of recreation improvements and open space areas. Therefore, impacts
associated with the proposed project would not result in new impacts or substantially increase
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the severity of impacts analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis
is required.
(d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare
No New Impact. Streetlights, vehicle head and taillights on area roadways, and lighting
associated with adjacent development are the existing sources of light and glare in the vicinity
of the project site. The proposed project would include development of a community park on
an existing undeveloped site. Park hours would be from dawn until dusk, with courts with
lighting having extended hours until 10:00 p.m. Lights would be placed on a timed controller
and would not be used past the hour of 10:00 p.m.
Chapter 8.40 of the City of Dublin Municipal Code requires that court lighting shall not exceed a
maximum height of 20 feet and lighting shall be shielded or recessed so that light, glare, and
reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site.
Consistent with the policies outlined in the City’s Municipal Code, each light fixture would be
directed downward and away from adjoining properties, so that no on‐site light fixture would
directly illuminate any off‐site areas. Further, proposed lighting would be confined to a small
area of the park, adjacent to Tassajara Road and away from existing residential development.
Light and glare impacts were not identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR; however, the Initial Study
for the Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that additional light sources associated with
development (e.g., streetlights, building and security lighting) would be less than significant.
Consistent with the findings of the prior environmental documents, the proposed project would
be required to comply with the City development requirements and standard conditions of
approval as part of the review process to prevent light spillover from the project site. With
adherence to these requirements, the proposed project would not create a new source of
substantial light or glare, which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area. No
new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts would result with implementation
of the proposed project. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
California Department of Transportation. 2018. California Scenic Highway Mapping System.
Website: dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap‐landscape‐architecture‐and‐community‐
livability/lap‐liv‐i‐scenic‐highways (accessed February 16, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064m Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Agricultural and Forestry Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
2. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant
environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site
Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as an optional model
to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project:
a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of
Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps
prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to
non‐agricultural use?
X
b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract? X
c. Involve other changes in the existing environment which,
due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of
Farmland to non‐agricultural use or conversion of forest
land to non‐forest use?
X
d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land
to non‐forest use? X
e. Involve other changes in the existing environment which,
due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of
Farmland, to non‐agricultural use or conversion of forest
land to non‐forest use?
X
Environmental Setting
The project site is not used for agricultural production and is not designated Prime Farmland,
Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance on maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency. The
surrounding area is characterized by residential uses.
The Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program categorizes the project site as Grazing Land.
Grazing Land is defined as land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of
livestock.
No forest land exists on the project site; however, riparian woodland is located within the
Tassajara Creek corridor that bisects the project site.
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Regulatory Framework
State Regulations
California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
The California Department of Conservation (DOC) manages the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program to assess the location, quality, and quantity of agricultural lands and
conversion of these lands over time. In each county, the land is analyzed for soil and irrigation
quality, and the highest quality land is designated as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance. Based on the results of these analyses, the DOC issues
maps every two years with the use of a computer mapping system, aerial imagery, public
review, and field reconnaissance.
Williamson Act
The Williamson Act, also known as the California Land Conservation Act of 1965, enables local
governments and private landowners to enter into contracts that restrict specific parcels of
land to agricultural or related open space use. As a result, landowners receive reduced property
tax assessments because they are based upon farming and open space uses rather than market
value.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
Section 7.6 of the General Plan outlines policies and programs related to agricultural lands. The
following policies related to agriculture are applicable to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 7.6.1.A.1. Prevent the premature urbanization of agricultural lands.
Implementing Policy 7.6.1.B.1. Approval of urban development shall require findings
that the land is suitable for the proposed use and will have adequate urban services and
that conversion to an urban use will not have significant adverse effects on adjoining
lands remaining under Williamson Act contract.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Section 6.2 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines policies and programs related to open
space. The following policies related to agriculture are applicable to the proposed project:
Policy 6‐2: Locate development so that large, continuous open space areas/corridors are
preserved. Avoid creating open space islands. Encourage single loaded streets in areas
adjacent to open space, rural residential, and agricultural lands.
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Policy 6‐7: All Rural Residential/Agriculture (RR/A) areas shall be kept primarily
undeveloped. If possible, allowable development in these areas should be transferred to
other residential development areas and the future use of the land restricted to open
space uses. If development does occur within RR designated areas, it should be located
in the least visible portion of the development site and situated to preserve the area's
value as open space and wildlife habitat.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified less than significant impacts related to discontinuation of
agricultural uses, loss of farmlands of local importance, indirect impacts resulting from non‐
renewal of Williamson Act contracts, and conversion of non‐urban lands. Although the Eastern
Dublin EIR determined that the loss of agricultural uses within the Eastern Dublin Area was less
than significant, the Eastern Dublin EIR identified the cumulative loss of agricultural lands and
open space as a significant unavoidable impact and adopted a Statement of Overriding
Considerations for this impact.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Agricultural resources were addressed in Chapter 4.1 of the Dublin Ranch West SEIR. No
additional significant impacts to agricultural resources were identified.
2014 Addendum
No new or more severe impacts related to agricultural resources than were previously analyzed
in the prior environmental documents were identified in the 2014 Addendum. The 2014
Addendum determined that the Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project would continue to contribute to
cumulative loss of agricultural land and open space, which was identified as a significant and
unavoidable impact in the Eastern Dublin EIR (Impact 3.1/F).
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance
(farmland)
No New Impact. As described above, the project site is not used for agricultural production and
is not designated Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance
Therefore, the proposed project would not convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland,
Farmland of Statewide Importance, or any other type of farmland to non‐agricultural uses. No
new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts to Prime Farmland, Unique
Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance would occur. No additional analysis is required.
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(b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a William Act contract
No New Impact. The project site is currently classified as Planned Development (PD) Ordinance
No. 07‐03 on the City’s Zoning Map. The project site is not currently used for agricultural
purposes, not zoned for agricultural uses, and is not protected by, or eligible for, a Williamson
Act contract. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with existing zoning or
Williamson Act contracts. No new or substantially more severe significant impacts to farmland
or zoning beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents would occur.
No additional analysis is required.
(c) Conversion of land from Farmland or forest use
No New Impact. As described above, the project site is zoned is currently classified as Planned
Development (PD) Ordinance No. 11‐14 and PD Ordinance No. 09‐15 on the City’s Zoning Map.
Neither the project site nor the surrounding area is zoned for agricultural use, forest land,
timberland, or timberland production. Therefore, no new or substantially more severe
significant impacts to farmland beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental
documents would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(d) Result in loss of forest land or conversion of forest
No New Impact. No forest or timberland exists on the project site or in the surrounding area.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the loss of forest land or the conversion of
forest land to non‐forest use. Therefore, no new or substantially more severe significant
impacts to forest land beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents
would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(e) Conversion of Farmland, to non‐agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non‐forest
use
No New Impact. None of the project parcels are currently used as farmland or forest land. The
proposed project would not result in the conversion of farmland on or off the project site to
non‐agricultural uses because there are no agricultural uses on or in the immediate vicinity of
the project site. Likewise, the proposed project would not result in impacts related to changes
in the existing environment that could result in the conversion of agricultural land to non‐
agricultural uses. Therefore, no new or substantially more severe significant impacts related to
conversion of farmland or forest land beyond what has been analyzed in the prior
environmental documents would occur. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
California Department of Conservation (DOC). California Farmland Conservancy. California
Important Farmland Finder. Website: maps.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/ciff/ (accessed
June 24, 2021).
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Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064m Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Air Quality
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No New
Impact
3. AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality
management district or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following
determinations. Would the project:
a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan? X
b. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any
criteria pollutant for which the project region is non‐
attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient
air quality standard?
X
c. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
X
d. Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors
adversely affecting a substantial number of people?
X
Environmental Setting
The proposed project is located in the City of Dublin, and is within the jurisdiction of the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), which regulates air quality in the San
Francisco Bay Area. Air quality conditions in the San Francisco Bay Area have improved
significantly since the BAAQMD was created in 1955. Ambient concentrations of air pollutants
and the number of days during which the region exceeds air quality standards have fallen
substantially. In Dublin, and the rest of the air basin, exceedances of air quality standards occur
primarily during meteorological conditions conducive to high pollution levels, such as cold,
windless winter nights or hot, sunny summer afternoons.
Within the BAAQMD, ambient air quality standards for ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen
dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), and lead (Pb) have been set
by both the State of California and the federal government. The State has also set standards for
sulfate and visibility. The BAAQMD is under State non‐attainment status for ozone and
particulate matter standards. The BAAQMD is classified as non‐attainment for the federal
ozone 8‐hour standard and non‐attainment for the federal PM2.5 24‐hour standard.
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Regulatory Framework
Local and Regional Regulations
Bay Area Air Quality Management District
The BAAQMD seeks to attain and maintain air quality conditions in the San Francisco Bay Area
Air Basin through a comprehensive program of planning, regulation, enforcement, technical
innovation, and education. The clean air strategy includes the preparation of plans for the
attainment of ambient air quality standards, adoption and enforcement of rules and
regulations, and issuance of permits for stationary sources. The BAAQMD also inspects
stationary sources and responds to citizen complaints, monitors ambient air quality and
meteorological conditions, and implements programs and regulations required by law.
The BAAQMD CEQA Air Quality Guidelines were prepared to assist in the evaluation of air
quality impacts of projects and plans proposed within the Bay Area. The guidelines provide
recommended procedures for evaluating potential air impacts during the environmental review
process, consistent with CEQA requirements, and include recommended thresholds of signifi‐
cance, mitigation measures, and background air quality information. They also include
recommended assessment methodologies for air toxics, odors, and greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions.
The BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan guides the region’s air quality planning efforts to attain the
California ambient air quality standards. The BAAQMD 2017 Clean Air Plan, which was adopted
on April 19, 2017, by the BAAQMD Board of Directors, is the current Clean Air Plan, which
contains district‐wide control measures to reduce ozone precursor emissions (i.e., reactive
organic gases [ROG] and nitrogen oxides [NOx]), particulate matter, and greenhouse gas
emissions.
City of Dublin General Plan
Section 7.5 of the General Plan outlines policies and programs related to air quality. The
following policies related to agriculture are applicable to the proposed project:
Implementing Policy 7.5.1.A.2. Require an air quality analysis for new development
projects that could generate significant air emissions on a project and cumulative level.
Air quality analyses shall include specific feasible measures to reduce anticipated air
quality emissions to a less‐than‐significant California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
level.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to dust and
construction equipment/vehicle emissions during construction, mobile source emissions, and
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stationary source emissions. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce all air quality
impacts; however, even with implementation of mitigation, impacts associated with
construction equipment/vehicle emissions, mobile source emissions and stationary source were
determined to be significant and unavoidable. The following mitigation measures would apply
to the proposed project:
MM 3.11/1.0 The City of Dublin shall:
Require watering in late morning and at the end of the day; the frequency of
watering should increase if wind speeds exceed 15 miles per hour (mph). Watering
should include all excavated and graded areas and material to be transported off‐
site. Use recycled or other non‐potable water resources where feasible.
Require daily cleanup of mud and dust carried onto street surfaces by construction
vehicles.
Require excavation haul trucks to use tarpaulins or other effective covers.
Require that, upon completion of construction, measures shall be taken to reduce
wind erosion. Replanting and repaving should be completed as soon as possible
Require that unnecessary idling of construction equipment is avoided.
Require that, after grading is completed, fugitive dust on exposed soil surface shall
be controlled using the following methods:
□ All inactive portions of the construction site should be seeded and watered until
grass growth is evident.
□ Require that all portions of the site shall be sufficiently watered to prevent
excessive amounts of dust.
□ Require that, at all times, the following procedures should be followed:
On‐site vehicle speed shall be limited to 15 mph.
Use of petroleum‐based palliative shall meet the road oil requirements of the
Air Quality District. Non‐petroleum‐based tackifiers may be required by the
Public Works Director.
The Public Works Department will handle dust complaints. The Public Works
Director may require the services of an air quality consultant to advise the
City of the severity of the dust problem and additional ways to mitigate
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impacts on residents, including temporarily halting project construction. Dust
concerns in adjoining communities, as well as the City of Dublin shall be
controlled. Control measures shall be related to wind conditions. Air quality
monitoring ONM levels shall be provided as directed by the Public Works
Director in Dublin.
MM 3.11/2.0 Minimize construction interference with regional non‐project traffic
movement by:
Scheduling receipt of construction materials to non‐peak travel periods.
Routing construction traffic through areas of least impact sensitivity.
Limiting lane closures and detours to off‐peak periods.
Providing ride‐share incentives for contractor and subcontractor personnel.
MM 3.11/3.0 Require emissions control from on‐site equipment through a routine
mandatory program of low‐emissions tune‐ups.
MM 3.11/4.0 Require preparation of a construction impact reduction plan that
incorporates all proposed air quality mitigation strategies with clearly defined
responsibilities for plan implementation and supervision.
MM 3.11/12.0 Stationary source emissions associated with Project development should
also be minimized where feasible to reduce overall cumulative impacts. Minimum
energy conservation standards are established in Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations. Design practice can achieve a slightly greater level of conservation than the
minimum standards. A conservation target level for some fraction of Eastern Dublin
development of 10 percent above the minimum should be implementation as an
appropriate acknowledgement of the desired “environmentally‐friendly” community
character of the project.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that implementation of the Dublin Ranch West project
would result in two potentially significant impacts associated with fugitive dust and particulate
matter (PM10) during construction and an increase in regional emissions that would exceed
BAAQMD significance thresholds for ozone precursors. The following supplemental mitigation
measures were identified to reduce potential air quality impacts:
Supplemental Mitigation Measure AQ‐1: In addition to the measures identified in MM
3.11/1.0 of the East Dublin EIR, the City of Dublin shall:
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a) Require construction contractors to water or cover stockpiles of debris, soil, sand
or other materials that can be blown by the wind.
b) Require construction contractors to sweep daily (preferably with water sweepers)
all paved access road, parking areas, and staging areas at construction sites.
c) Require construction contractors to install sandbags or other erosion control
measures to prevent silt runoff to public roadways.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure AQ‐2: In addition to the measures identified in MM
3.11/5.0‐11.0 of the East Dublin EIR, the City of Dublin shall require that the following be
implemented:
a) The Project proponent should coordinate with LAVTA for the eventual extension
of transit service to the Project site. The Project proponent should construct or
reserve necessary right‐of‐way for transit facilities such as bus turnouts/bus bulbs,
benches, etc.
b) Provide bicycle land and/or paths, connected to community‐wide network.
c) Provide sidewalks and/or paths, connected to adjacent land uses, transit stops,
and/or community‐wide network.
d) Consider shuttle service to regional transit system or multimodal center.
e) Consider providing a satellite telecommute center for Project residents if this is
feasible in terms of a convenient location.
f) Provide interconnected street network, with a regular grid or similar
interconnected street pattern.
With implementation of Supplemental Mitigation Measure AQ‐1, impacts related to
fugitive dust were determined to be less than significant; however, even with
implementation of the mitigation measures in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Supplemental
Mitigation Measure AQ‐2, ozone air quality impacts were determined to remain
significant and unavoidable.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to air quality
would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project.
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Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Consistency with air quality plans
No New Impact. The applicable air quality plan is the BAAQMD 2017 Clean Air Plan (Clean Air
Plan), which was adopted on April 19, 2017. The Clean Air Plan is a comprehensive plan to
improve Bay Area air quality and protect public health. The Clean Air Plan defines control
strategies to reduce emissions and ambient concentrations of air pollutants; safeguard public
health by reducing exposure to air pollutants that pose the greatest health risk, with an
emphasis on protecting the communities most heavily affected by air pollution; and reduce
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to protect the climate. Consistency with the Clean Air Plan can
be determined if the project: (1) supports the goals of the Clean Air Plan; (2) includes applicable
control measures from the Clean Air Plan; and (3) would not disrupt or hinder implementation
of any control measures from the Clean Air Plan.
Clean Air Plan Goals. The primary goals of the Bay Area Clean Air Plan are to attain air quality
standards; reduce population exposure and protect public health in the Bay Area; and reduce
GHG emissions and protect climate.
The BAAQMD has established significance thresholds for project construction and operational
impacts at a level at which the cumulative impact of exceeding these thresholds would have an
adverse impact on the region’s attainment of air quality standards. The health and hazards
thresholds were established to help protect public health. As discussed below, with
implementation of the mitigation measures identified in the prior environmental documents,
the proposed project would result in less‐than‐significant construction‐ and operation‐period
emissions. Therefore, the project would not conflict with the Clean Air Plan goals.
Clean Air Plan Control Measures. The control strategies of the Clean Air Plan include measures
in the following categories: Stationary Source Measures, Transportation Measures, Energy
Measures, Building Measures, Agriculture Measures, Natural and Working Lands Measures,
Waste Management Measures, Water Measures, and Super‐GHG Pollutants Measures. The
project would result in the construction of a community park to serve the adjacent residential
neighborhood. Therefore, the Stationary Source, Energy Control, Building Control, Agricultural
Control, Natural and Working Lands Control, Water Control, and Super GHG Control Measures
are not applicable to the proposed project.
The BAAQMD identifies Transportation Control Measures as part of the Clean Air Plan to
decrease emissions of criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants (TACs), and GHGs by reducing
demand for motor vehicle travel, promoting efficient vehicles and transit service, decarbonizing
transportation fuels, and electrifying motor vehicles and equipment. The proposed project
would result in the development of a new community park to serve the Wallis Ranch
neighborhood. The proposed project would provide recreation and gathering space for this
community. The proposed project is not expected to result in a significant increase in the
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Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 32
generation of vehicle trips or vehicle miles traveled (VMT). In addition, the project site is
located within walking or bicycling distance from the surrounding residential area, and
therefore would support the ability of visitors to use alternative modes of transportation. As
such, the project would promote BAAQMD initiatives to reduce vehicle trips and VMT and
would increase the use of alternate means of transportation.
Furthermore, the proposed project would comply with local requirements for waste
management (e.g., recycling and composting services), as applicable, and would therefore be
consistent with the Waste Management Control Measures, which focus on reducing or
capturing methane emissions from landfills and composting facilities, diverting organic
materials away from landfills, and increasing waste diversion rates through efforts to reduce,
reuse, and recycle.
Clean Air Plan Implementation. As discussed above, the proposed project would generally
implement the applicable measures outlined in the Clean Air Plan, including Transportation
Control Measures. Therefore, the proposed project would not create new impacts or
substantially more severe significant impacts related to clean air plan consistency than impacts
analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Project emissions
No New Impact. The following analysis assesses the potential construction‐ and operation‐
related air quality impacts and CO impacts of the proposed project.
Construction Emissions. During construction activities, short‐term degradation of air quality
may occur due to the release of particulate matter emissions (i.e., fugitive dust) generated by
grading, clearing, and other activities. Emissions from construction equipment are also
anticipated and would include CO, NOx, ROG, directly‐emitted particulate matter (PM2.5 and
PM10), and toxic air contaminants (TACs), such as diesel exhaust particulate matter.
Construction of the proposed project would include site clearing, slope stabilization, and rough
grading, utilities and general site work, and final site preparation and paving. Construction‐
related effects on air quality are typically the greatest during the site preparation phase due to
the disturbance of soils. If not properly controlled, these activities would temporarily generate
particulate emissions. Sources of fugitive dust would include disturbed soils at the construction
site. Unless properly controlled, vehicles leaving the site would deposit dirt and mud on local
streets, which could be an additional source of airborne dust after it dries. Fugitive dust
emissions (PM10) would vary from day to day, depending on the nature and magnitude of
construction activity and local weather conditions. PM10 emissions would depend on soil
moisture, silt content of soil, wind speed, and the amount of operating equipment. Larger dust
particles would settle near the source, while fine particles would be dispersed over greater
distances from the construction site. Water or other soil stabilizers can be used to control dust,
resulting in emission reductions of 50 percent or more. Implementation of mitigation measures
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MM 3.11/1.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Supplemental Mitigation Measure AIR‐1
identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR would reduce fugitive dust emissions from
construction activities to a less‐than‐significant level.
In addition to dust‐related PM10 emissions, heavy trucks and construction equipment powered
by gasoline and diesel engines would generate CO, SO2, NOx, VOCs and some soot particulate
(PM2.5 and PM10) in exhaust emissions. If construction activities were to increase traffic
congestion in the area, CO and other emissions from traffic would increase slightly while those
vehicles idle in traffic. These emissions would be temporary in nature and limited to the
immediate area surrounding the construction site.
The BAAQMD has developed screening criteria to provide lead agencies with a conservative
indication of whether a proposed project would result in potentially significant air quality
impacts. If all of the screening criteria are met by a proposed project, then the lead agency
would not need to perform a detailed air quality assessment of the proposed project’s
emissions. These screening levels are generally representative without any form of mitigation
measures taken into consideration. In addition, the screening criteria do not account for project
design features, attributes, or local development requirements that could also result in lower
emissions.
For park land uses, the BAAQMD screening size for construction criteria pollutants is 67 acres.
Since the total project site is approximately 9 acres, based on the BAAQMD’s screening criteria,
construction activities associated with the proposed project are not anticipated to exceed
established thresholds and this impact would be less than significant.
Operation Emissions. Long‐term air pollutant emission impacts are those associated with
mobile sources (e.g., vehicle trips), energy sources (e.g., electricity and natural gas), and area
sources (e.g., architectural coatings and the use of landscape maintenance equipment) related
to the proposed project.
As discussed above, the BAAQMD has developed screening criteria to determine whether a
project requires an analysis of project‐generated criteria air pollutants. If all the screening
criteria are met by a proposed project, then the lead agency does not need to perform a
detailed air quality assessment.
For park land uses, the BAAQMD screening size for operational criteria pollutants is 2,613 acres.
Since the total project site is approximately 9 acres, based on the BAAQMD’s screening criteria,
the potential increase in intensity of use on the site is not anticipated to exceed established
thresholds. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in nonattainment under an
applicable federal or State ambient air quality standard.
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With adherence to MM 3.11/1.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Supplemental
Mitigation Measure AIR‐1 identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, there would be no new or
substantially more severe significant impacts related to project emissions beyond what has
been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(c) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutant concentrations
No New Impact. Sensitive receptors are defined as residential uses, schools, daycare centers,
nursing homes, and medical centers. Individuals particularly vulnerable to diesel particulate
matter are children, whose lung tissue is still developing, and the elderly, who may have serious
health problems that can be aggravated by exposure to diesel particulate matter. Exposure
from diesel exhaust associated with construction activity contributes to both cancer and
chronic non‐cancer health risks.
Surrounding land uses include residential development to the north, undeveloped open space
to the west and south, and Tassajara Road, residential development, and Quarry Lane School to
the east. The closest sensitive receptors to the proposed project include the single‐family
residences associated with the Wallis Ranch community located immediately north of the
project site and single‐family residences and Quarry Lane School to the east.
Construction of the proposed project may expose surrounding sensitive receptors to airborne
particulates, as well as a small quantity of construction equipment pollutants (i.e., usually
diesel‐fueled vehicles and equipment). However, construction contractors would be required to
implement MM 3.11/1.0 through MM 3.11/4.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, as well as
Supplemental Mitigation Measure AIR‐1 identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR described
above, to reduce construction‐related impacts. With implementation of these mitigation
measures, project construction pollutant emissions would be below the BAAQMD significance
thresholds. Once the project is constructed, the project would not be a source of substantial
pollutant emissions. Therefore, sensitive receptors are not expected to be exposed to
substantial pollutant concentrations during project construction and operation. No new
impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts related to pollutant concentrations
would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(d) Odors
No New Impact. During project construction, some odors may be present due to diesel
exhaust. However, these odors would be temporary and limited to the construction period. The
proposed project would not include any activities or operations that would generate
objectionable odors and once operational, the project would not be a source of odors.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in other emissions (such as those leading to
odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people. No new impacts or substantially
more severe significant impacts related to odors would occur. No additional analysis is
required.
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Source(s)
BAAQMD. 2017. Final 2017 Clean Air Plan. April 19. Website:
www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning‐and‐research/plans/2017‐clean‐air‐
plan/attachment‐a_‐proposed‐final‐cap‐vol‐1‐pdf.pdf?la=en (accessed June 27, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Biological Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through
habitat modifications, on any species identified as a
candidate, sensitive, or special‐status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
X
b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or
other sensitive natural community identified in local or
regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
X
c. Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally
protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh,
vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling,
hydrological interruption, or other means?
X
d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native
resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with
established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors,
or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
X
e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting
biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance?
X
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan,
or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
X
Environmental Setting
The project site consists of approximately 9 acres of vacant land in Eastern Dublin. Tassajara
Creek bisects the site. As outlined in the Project Description, a conservation easement has been
established on both sides of the creek to protect its value for open space, storm drainage
facilities, and water quality treatment. No park improvements would be constructed within the
riparian corridor in compliance with the conservation easement.
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Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
Federal and State Special Status Species
Special status species are individual plant and animal species that are protected under federal
and State Endangered Species Acts. These species are classified as rare, threatened, or
endangered. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) have adopted a system to conserve and protect plant
and animal species that are limited in distribution as well as species that have a low or declining
population. If a proposed project or activities associated with a proposed project result in the
“take” of a threatened or endangered species, the necessary permits must be obtained from
the USFWS and CDFW. The State of California defines take as any action or attempt to “hunt,
pursue, catch, capture, or kill” a listed species. Additionally, the Federal Endangered Species Act
includes the “harm” of a listed species in the definition of take.
Section 15380(b) of the State CEQA Guidelines also considers all potential rare or sensitive
species and habitats that are capable of supporting such species in addition to those species
listed under the federal and state Endangered Species Acts. These additional species considered
under CEQA may include California plant species of concern as listed by the California Native
Plant Society as well as “Species of Special Concern” listed by CDFW.
Sensitive Habitats
Wetland and riparian habitats are considered to be sensitive habitats, and are protected under
various Federal, State, and local regulations. These habitats are generally subject to regulation,
protection, or consideration by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Regional Water
Quality Control Board (RWQCB), CDFW, and/or the USFWS as per Sections 303, 304, and 404 of
the Federal Clean Water Act and the State of California Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control
Act. Wetland and riparian habitats are also subject to the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permit program under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act, which
regulates discharge into waters of the United States.
Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), the killing, possessing, or trading of
migratory birds is prohibited unless exempt by regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the
Interior. The MBTA prohibits the possession of protected bird species and their nests,
regardless of whether nests are active.2
2 An active nest is defined as having eggs or young.
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Birds of prey, such as owls and hawks, are protected in California under provisions of the State
Fish and Game Code. The code states that it is “unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds
in the order Falconiformes or Strigiformes (birds of prey) or to take, possess, or destroy the nest
or eggs of any such bird except as otherwise provided by this code or any regulation adopted
pursuant thereto.” Construction disturbance during the breeding season could result in the
incidental loss of fertile eggs or nestlings, or otherwise lead to nest abandonment. Disturbance
that causes nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort is considered “taking” by the
CDFW.
California Department of Fish and Game Code 3503
California Department of Fish and Game Code 3503 stipulates that is unlawful to take, posses,
or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by this code or
any regulation made pursuant thereto.
Regional and Local Regulations
East Alameda Conservation Strategy
The project site is located in the East Alameda Conservation Strategy (Conservation Strategy)
Study Area. The Conservation Strategy is intended to provide an effective framework to
protect, enhance, and restore natural resources in eastern Alameda County, while improving
and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts resulting from
infrastructure and development projects. The City of Dublin is a partner in the Conservation
Strategy and uses the document to provide a baseline inventory of biological resources and
conservation priorities during project‐level planning and environmental permitting.
City of Dublin General Plan
Section 3.2 of the General Plan outlines policies for preservation of open space areas to protect
natural resources, as well as public health and safety. Sections 7.2 and 7.4 of the General Plan
outlines policies and programs related to stream corridors and riparian vegetation, and oak
woodlands, respectively. The following policies related to biological resources are applicable to
the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 3.2.1.A.1. Preservation of oak woodlands, riparian vegetation, and
natural creeks as open space for the natural resource value is of the highest importance.
Limited modifications may be permitted on a case‐by‐case basis with adequate
mitigation to replace disturbed resources.
Guiding Policy 3.2.1.A.2. Generally, maintain slopes over thirty percent as permanent
open space for public health and safety. Consider development in areas with slopes over
30 percent only if the area to be developed is: 1) less than three acres in size; 2) less
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than 20 percent of a large developable area; and, 3) surrounded by slopes less than 30
percent.
Implementing Policy 3.2.1.B.2. Encourage an efficient and higher intensity use of the
flat and gently sloping portions of the planning area as a means of minimizing grading
requirements and potential impacts to environmental and aesthetic resources.
Guiding Policy 7.2.1.A.1. Protect riparian vegetation as a protective buffer for stream
quality and for its value as a habitat and aesthetic resource.
Guiding Policy 7.2.1.A.2. Promote access to stream corridors for passive recreational
use and to allow stream maintenance and improvements as necessary, while respecting
the privacy of owners of property abutting stream corridors.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.1. Enforce Watercourse Ordinance 52‐87 for developed
areas of the city.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.2. Require open stream corridors of adequate width to
protect all riparian vegetation, improve access, and prevent flooding caused by blockage
of streams.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.3. Require revegetation of creek banks with species
characteristic of local riparian vegetation, where construction requires creekbank
alteration.
Guiding Policy 7.4.1.A.1. Protect oak woodlands.
Implementing Policy 7.4.1.B.1. Require preservation of oak woodlands. Where
woodlands occupy slopes that otherwise could be graded and developed, permit
allowable density to be transferred to another part of the site. Removal of an individual
oak tree may be considered through the project review process.
Implementing Policy 7.4.1.B.2. Enact and enforce the Heritage Tree Ordinance.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Chapter 6.3 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines the goals and policies to protect natural
resources, including habitat areas and drainage ways, ridgelands and slopes over 30 percent
and views. According to Section 6.3.1 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, watercourses are to
be preserved in open space corridors, and enhancement and stabilization will enhance the
streams’ natural functions. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan includes the following policies to
address protection and preservation of stream corridors and wetlands:
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Policy 6‐9: Natural stream corridors, ponds, springs, seeps, and wetland areas, as shown
in Figure 6.2, shall be preserved wherever possible. Prior to submittal of development
applications, the appropriate agencies such as the California Department of Fish and
Game and the Army Corps of Engineers must be consulted to determine whether they
have jurisdiction over the watercourse or wetland area.
Policy 6‐10: Riparian and wetland areas shall be incorporated into greenbelt and open
space areas as a means of preserving their hydrologic and habitat value. Unavoidable
loss of riparian habitat due to development should be replaced with similar habitat on a
3:1 in kind basis. Loss of wetlands must be mitigated consistent with the COE's current
policy.
Policy 6‐12: Maintain natural open stream channels to carry storm runoff wherever
feasible, rather than replacing with underground storm drainage systems. When extra
capacity is necessary, retention basins are preferable to channelization, if the
channelization would disturb riparian habitat. When channelization is necessary, the
channel should be designed and constructed to accommodate both the projected flows
and the growth of riparian vegetation, and to have more natural‐appearing contours.
Flood control maintenance practices will be designed and performed to be responsive to
public safety while preserving the unique riparian community. Maintenance agreements
(memoranda of understanding) between the City and responsible agencies will address,
but not be limited to, site access, criteria for determining the need for maintenance (i.e.
assessment and monitoring), and the timing and frequency of actual maintenance
practices.
Policy 6‐13: Establish a stream corridor system (see Figure 6.1), which provides
multipurpose open space corridors capable of accommodating wildlife all pedestrian
circulation. In order to facilitate the use of these corridors by both humans and wildlife,
human activities (e.g., trails) should be limited to one side of the stream.
Policy 6‐14: Enhance public enjoyment and visibility of stream corridors by avoiding, or
minimizing, development that backs directly onto the stream corridor, and ensure safe
public access to stream corridors by providing frequent access points within each
development area.
As described in Section 6.3.2 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, Eastern Dublin contains a
range of vegetation/habitat types, including non‐native grasslands, alkali grasslands, northern
riparian forest, arroyo willow riparian woodland, freshwater marsh, springs, seeps and water
impoundments, and disturbed/developed areas. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan includes the
following policies to address protection and preservation of biological resources:
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Policy 6‐15: Avoid development and potentially destructive activities in areas with
high‐value habitat including: northern riparian forest, arroyo willow riparian woodland,
freshwater marsh. Exceptions may only be granted where an owner's reasonable
beneficial use of the land cannot be otherwise provided.
Policy 6‐16: To ensure long‐term protection, high‐ value habitat areas either should be
dedicated as public open space or restricted from potentially harmful development and
activities with deed restrictions and design standards.
Policy 6‐17: Impacts to sensitive wildlife species that occur in the planning area will be
avoided wherever possible. Mitigation programs will be required as necessary to reduce
or eliminate impacts on special status species.
Policy 6‐18: Development in the planning area will be designed to maintain contiguous
areas of natural open space interconnected by functional wildlife corridors that permit
the free movement of wildlife throughout the open space areas. As a means of
preserving wildlife corridors, duster development is generally preferable to an even lo
low density sprawl over an entire area.
Policy 6‐21: Direct disturbance or removal of trees or native vegetation cover should be
minimized and should be restricted to those areas actually designated for the
construction of improvements.
Policy 6‐22: All areas of disturbance should be revegetated as quickly as possible to
prevent erosion. Native trees (preferably those species already on site), shrubs, herbs,
and grasses should be used for revegetation of areas to remain as natural open space.
The introduction of non‐native plant species should be avoided.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to habitat loss, indirect
habitat loss due to vegetation removal for construction and development activities, and loss or
degradation of sensitive habitat. The Eastern Dublin EIR also identified potentially significant
impacts related to special‐status wildlife, including San Joaquin kit fox, California red‐legged
frog (CRLF), California tiger salamander (CTS), western pond turtle, tri‐colored blackbird, Golden
eagle, burrowing owl, American badger, special‐status invertebrates and others. Mitigation
measures were identified to reduce significant impacts. One significant unavoidable impact was
identified related to the cumulative loss of or degradation of botanically sensitive habitat. The
following mitigation measures would apply to the proposed project:
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MM 3.7/1.0 Direct disturbance or removal of trees or native vegetation cover should
be minimized and be restricted to those areas actually designated for the construction
of improvements.
MM 3.7/5.0 All areas of disturbance should be revegetated as quickly as possible to
prevent erosion. Native trees (preferably those species already on site), shrubs, herbs,
and grasses should be used for revegetation of areas to remains as natural open space.
The introduction of non‐native plant species should be avoided.
MM 3.7/14.0 The City should enact and enforce an erosion and sedimentation control
ordinance establishing performance standards to ensure maintenance of water quality
and protection of stream channels. The ordinance should regulate grading and
development activities adjacent to streams and wetland areas, and require revegetation
of all ground disturbance immediately after construction to reduce erosion potential.
Until such an ordinance is in place, the City shall require project applicants to provide a
detailed erosion and sedimentation control plan as part of the project submittal.
MM 3.7/16.0 Existing sensitive habitats shall be avoided and protected where feasible.
MM 3.7/17.0 Construction near drainages shall take place during the dry season.
MM 3.7/19.0 The use of rodenticides and herbicides within the Project area should be
restricted to avoid impacts on wildlife. The City shall require any poisoning programs to
be done in cooperation with and under supervision of the Alameda County Department
of Agriculture.
MM 3.7/20.0 The City shall require development applicants to conduct a pre‐
construction survey within 60 days prior to habitat modification (clearing construction
and road site, etc.) to verify the presence of sensitive species, especially the San Joaquin
kit fox, nesting raptors, the red‐legged frog, the western pond turtle, the California tiger
salamander, the tri‐colored blackbird and other species of concern.
MM 3.7/22.0 Maintain a minimum buffer (at least 100 feet) around breeding sites of
the red‐legged frog, California tiger salamander and the Western pond turtle identify by
MM 3.7/20.0.
MM 3.7/27.0 Maintain a minimum buffer (at least 300 feet) around known or those
identified by pre‐construction surveys (MM 3.7/20.0) nesting sites of the burrowing owl
and breeding sites of the American badger during the breeding season to avoid direct
loss of individuals (March – September).
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Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that implementation of the Dublin Ranch West project
would result in potentially significant supplemental impacts to California tiger salamander,
California red‐legged frog, breeding birds, bat species, burrowing owl, special‐status plants,
riparian vegetation, and temporary loss of aquatic habitat. Supplemental mitigation measures
were identified to reduce these impacts to a less than significant level. The following
supplemental mitigation measures are applicable to the proposed project site:
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐1: A CTS management plan shall be developed by
the Project proponents, and approved by the CDFW and the USFWS, prior to
construction activities. This measure shall also apply to construction of recreational
trails in preserved areas. The Plan will detail how CTS will be managed before and during
construction activities and will include the following:
a) Installation of a temporary herpetological fence prior to any ground disturbance
around the entire development footprint, which shall prevent CTS from entering
the construction site and shall remain until the permanent fence or barrier is
installed or the current one‐way barrier is extended and approved for use by the
USFWS. A maintenance schedule shall be included for this fencing.
b) A trapping and relocation plan that details how aestivating CTS individuals will be
adequately relocated from the development footprint and into permanently
preserved suitable aestivation habitat.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐2: A permanent herpetological fence or barrier
shall be installed around the entire development footprint following construction
activities to prevent movement of CTS into the development area. Such fencing shall be
designed to allow for movement of larger terrestrial wildlife species, but shall preclude
CTS from climbing the fence. With USFWS approval, the one‐way barrier currently in
place may be extended to meet this mitigation requirement.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐6: A qualified biologist (as identified by the City)
shall monitor construction activities to ensure protective measures are implemented
and maintained (i.e., fencing is maintained, preserved areas are not disturbed, etc.). The
biological monitor shall have the authority to suspend any and all construction activities
if protective measures are not property followed and/or if activities pose an immediate
threat to preserve sensitive resources. The biological monitor shall also have the
authority to contact CDFW and/or the USFWS to report any mortality of listed species
during construction. This measure shall also apply to construction of recreational trails
in the preserved areas.
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Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐7: All project construction employees shall
receive an educational training program that includes information on sensitive species
identification and their potential habitat, approved mitigation measures for the project
and actions employees should take if a sensitive species is encountered. This measure
shall also apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved areas.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐9: The following construction‐related CRLF
avoidance and protection measures shall be followed for development activities within
the Project area:
b) Prior to grading activities or any ground disturbance within upland habitats, and
following installation of protective temporary construction fencing, a qualified
biologist with appropriate authorization to handle CRLF shall conduct pre‐
construction surveys. If CRLF are found within the construction areas, they shall
be immediately moved to undisturbed, preserved portions of Tassajara Creek if
authorized in a biological opinion issued by the USFWS for the Project. This
measure shall also apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved areas.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐10: Grading activities should take place during
the dry season (as is practicable) since CRLF will be less likely to be present in upland
areas during dry months of the year.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐11: Prior to any tree removal or ground
disturbance, a qualified biologist (approved by the City) shall conduct breeding bird
surveys through the Dublin Ranch West area and mark an appropriate buffer around
any nests discovered. Buffers shall be a minimum of 250 feet for raptors (although
sensitive raptors such as golden eagle may require a larger buffer), and between 50 and
100 feet for passerines depending on habitat type (50 feet in dense vegetation, 100 feet
in open areas). Pre‐construction surveys shall take place throughout the development
portion of Project area, including surveys for grassland birds and birds likely to nest
along the Tassajara Creek corridor. Nesting status shall be monitored by a qualified
biologist to determine when nests are no longer active. All activities shall be prohibited
within the buffer until after young have fledged and moved out of the nest. This
measure shall also apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved areas.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐12: Vegetation and tree removal shall take place
(as much as practicable) outside of the breeding season for most birds (February –
August is a broad breeding period that covers most species). This measure shall also
apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved areas.
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Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐13: Surveys of potential roosting habitat
including structures and large trees in the Tassajara Creek bridge crossing areas shall be
conducted by a qualified biologist prior to any disturbance of potential roosting sites. If
active roosts are discovered, bats would be excluded from those roosting locations by a
qualified biologist prior to habitat removal (late summer‐early fall). This measure shall
also apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved areas.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐14: The following pre‐construction survey,
avoidance, and/or compensation measures shall be applied for impacts to burrowing
owls (this measures shall also apply to construction of recreational trails in preserved
areas):
a) Pre‐construction surveys for burrowing owls shall be conducted by a qualified
biologist prior to any ground disturbance between September 1 and January 31.
If ground disturbance is delayed or suspended for more than 30 days after the
survey, the site should be re‐surveyed. If no over‐wintering birds are present,
burrows should be removed prior to the nesting season. If over‐wintering birds
are present no disturbance should occur within 150 feet of occupied burrows. If
owls must be moved away from the disturbance area during this period, passive
relocation measures must be prepared according to current CDFW burrowing
owl guidelines, approved by CDFW and completed prior to construction.
b) If construction is scheduled during the nesting season (February 1 – September
1), pre‐construction surveys shall be conducted in the entire Dublin Ranch West
area within 30 days prior to construction and within 250 feet of the Dublin Ranch
West area prior to any ground disturbance. A minimum buffer (at least 250 feet)
shall be maintained during the breeding season around active burrowing owl
nesting sites identified in pre‐construction surveys to avoid direct loss of
individuals.
c) If destruction of occupied (breeding or non‐breeding season) burrows, or any
burrow that were found to be occupied during pre‐construction surveys, is
unavoidable, a strategy will be developed to replace such burrows by enhancing
existing burrows or creating artificial burrows at a 2:1 ratio on permanently
protected lands adjacent to occupied burrowing owl habitat, and will include
permanent protection of a minimum of 6.5 acres of burrowing owl habitat per
pair or unpaired resident owl. A plan shall be developed and approved by CDFW
describing creation or enhancement of burrows, maintenance of burrows and
management of foraging habitat, monitoring procedures and significance
criteria, funding assurance, annual reporting requirements to CDFW, and
contingency and remediation measures.
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Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐15: One acre of new occupied habitat for
Congdonn’s tarplant shall be provided for every one acre of existing Congdon’s tarplant
habitat within suitable, on‐site preserved habitat (such as the TCMZ). The project
applicant shall develop and implement a detailed Mitigation and Monitoring plan to
fully compensate for impacts to Congdon’s tarplant. The plan shall include the
mitigation design, methods of salvage of existing seed, maintenance methods (including
weed management), monitoring procedures and performance criteria, reporting
requirements, and a contingency measure to preserve existing off‐site occupied
Congdon’t tarplant habitat at an equal amount to lost habitat in case of mitigation
failure.
The project proponent shall provide a secure funding source (such as a performance
bond) for the implementation of the mitigation plan and long‐term maintenance and
monitoring of the mitigation area. The created mitigation area must be preserved in
perpetuity (such as through a permanent conservation easement). The Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan must be approved by the City prior to issuance of grading permits for
the project. Mitigation shall require a minimum of five years of monitoring and annual
monitoring reports shall be provided to the City.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐17: A Tree Removal and Preservation Plan that
addresses all trees with a dripline that fall within any areas proposed for grading,
including trees on the adjacent TCMZ shall be prepared by a qualified arborist or
forester. The Plan shall provide detailed recommendations regarding tree removal and
preservation methods, including protective fencing around the dripline of preserve
trees, and shall be submitted to the City for review and acceptance prior to issuance of
any project grading permits. Trees to be removed or protected shall be accurately and
clearly delineated on all project grading plans, including a delineation of the dripline for
preserved trees.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to air quality
would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project with implementation of the mitigation
measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or special status species
No New Impact. The Eastern Dublin EIR and Dublin Ranch West SEIR document the presence of
special‐status plant and wildlife species within the project vicinity and within the Tassajara
Creek riparian corridor, which bisects the site. No park improvements would be constructed
within the riparian corridor in compliance with the conservation easement.
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The proposed park would be developed on three parcels that were designated for park use and
evaluated for park development in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR.
Impacts associated with habitat loss and degradation of sensitive habitat have already been
mitigated as part of development project approvals. As described above, the project site has
been graded; therefore, limited habitat for special‐status species currently exists on the project
site. However, if present during construction activities, special‐status species could be impacted
by ground disturbance, vegetation removal, and other project construction activities. Mitigation
measures are included in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Dublin Ranch West SEIR to reduce impacts
to special‐status species to a less‐than‐significant level. With adherence to the mitigation
measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and Dublin Ranch West SEIR, no new or
substantially more severe impacts with respect to candidate, sensitive, or special‐status species
would occur than have been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional
analysis is required.
(b) Substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other natural community
No New Impact. As described above, the Tassajara Creek riparian corridor bisects the site. No
park improvements would be constructed within the riparian corridor in compliance with the
conservation easement. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe significant
impacts related to riparian habitat would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(c) Substantial adverse effect on wetlands
No New Impact. As described above, the Tassajara Creek riparian corridor bisects the site.
According to the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, areas of seasonal and perennial open space, as well
as wetland areas vegetated by aquatic plants occur within the creek corridor. No park
improvements would be constructed within the riparian corridor in compliance with the
conservation easement. No other state or federally protected wetlands have been identified on
the project site. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts
related to wetlands would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(d) Interfere or impede the movement of migratory fish or wildlife
No New Impact. The project site is located in a largely urbanized area, bounded to the north
and east by development. However, undeveloped open space occurs to the west and south.
The primary wildlife movement corridor at the site is Tassajara Creek and its associated riparian
habitat. Proposed improvements at the project, including sports courts, turf areas, dog park,
restroom and other recreation facilities, are not expected to significantly impact existing
movement of wildlife. Consistent with the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin
EIR and Dublin Ranch West SEIR, the proposed development included the placement of
biological barriers around the development area and along the riparian corridor to prevent the
migration of some species onto the project site so as to prevent impacts to these species. No
potential for bat maternity roosts to be present exists, as the site lacks trees and buildings that
would provide roosting habitat for these species. Implementation of the proposed project
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would disturb land designated for park use and evaluated for improvement as a park in the
prior environmental documents and the types of facilities proposed are consistent with the
types of park facilities anticipated for and evaluated as part of prior environmental review.
Therefore, the proposed project would not interfere substantially with the movement of any
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native or resident
migratory wildlife corridors or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. No new impacts
or substantially more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(e) Conflict with local policies or ordinance include tree preservation
No New Impact. Heritage trees and approved street trees are protected under the Dublin
Municipal Code, specifically Sections 7.56, Street Trees, and 5.60, Heritage Trees.
As defined in the Dublin Municipal Code, approved street trees include:
1. Any tree planted within any street right‐of‐way or adjacent easement, which conforms to the
approved streetscape master plan;
2. Any existing tree within the right‐of‐way or adjacent easement, which conforms to the
established species and location in any given area, and which was planted as a required street
tree under the provisions of any improvement agreement, or as otherwise approved by the
City; or
3. Any tree of the approved species and in an acceptable location, which was or may be planted
as a replacement.
Heritage trees include any of the following:
1. Any oak, bay, cypress, maple, redwood, buckeye and sycamore tree having a trunk or main
stem of twenty‐four (24) inches or more in diameter measured at four (4) feet six (6) inches
above natural grade.
2. A tree required to be preserved as part of an approved development plan, zoning permit, use
permit, site development review, or subdivision map;
3. A tree required to be planted as a replacement for an unlawfully removed tree.
For private development projects, a permit is required from the City for the removal of any
heritage tree and the removal/pruning of any approved street tree. In addition, for any
property containing one or more heritage trees, a plan to protect heritage trees must be
prepared and submitted to the City prior to the issuance of a demolition, grading, or building
permit. Supplemental Mitigation Measure BIO‐17 identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR
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requires preparation of a Tree Removal and Preservation Plan to be approved by the City prior
to issuance of a grading permit.
Implementation of the proposed project may require limited removal or disturbance of trees;
including the removal of approximately 1 to 3 trees at the entry for the proposed parking area..
New trees would be planted as part of the proposed project, which would replace any trees to
be removed. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance. No
new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional
analysis is required.
(f) Conflict with adopted habitat conservation or natural community conservation plans
No New Impact. The project site is not subject to any adopted habitat conservation plan or
natural community conservation plan. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with
the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Plan, or other
approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan. No new impacts or substantially
more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Cultural Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
5. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a
historical resource pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section
15064.5?
X
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of
an archaeological resource pursuant to section 15064.5?
X
c. Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of dedicated cemeteries?
X
Environmental Setting
As described in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, a field survey of the Eastern Dublin area was
performed in 1988, which identified three potential prehistoric sites and two historic sites
within the Dublin Ranch West project area. The 2014 Addendum identified one historic
structure within the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project site. The Antone School Building was to be
rehabilitated and incorporated into the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project. The project site is
currently vacant; therefore, no historic built resources are present.
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified three potential pre‐historic sites within the Dublin Ranch West
project area; however, none of these resources were identified within the Wallis
Ranch/Trumark project site, within which the proposed park is located.
Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
National Register of Historic Places (National Register)
The National Register lists the historic significance and the eligibility for qualifying for such
significance for a building, structure, or other site. Significance eligibility is determined based on
the quality and integrity of the resource and its association to American history, architecture,
and culture. The resources must also possess one or more of the following characteristics:
1. It is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad pattern of
our history; or
2. It is associated with the lives of persons significant to our past; or
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3. It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or
that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a
significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
4. It yields, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
California Register of Historical Resources (California Register)
The California Register operates similarly to the National Register with almost the same
structure for determining significance eligibility for potential historical resources. Generally, a
resource is eligible for historical status under the California Register if it is greater than 50 years
old as well as meets one or more of the following criteria:
1. It is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns
of local or regional history, or the cultural heritage of California or the United States.
2. It is associated with the lives of persons important to local, California, or national history.
3. It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of
construction, or represents the work of a master or important creative individual, or
possesses high artistic values.
California Historical Landmarks
California Historical Landmarks are sites, buildings, features, or events that are of Statewide
significance and have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic,
scientific or technical, religious, experimental, or other value. To be eligible for designation as a
California Historic Landmark, a resource must meet at least one of the following criteria:
1. The first, last, only, or most significant of its type in the state or within a large geographic
region (Northern, Central, or Southern California).
2. Associated with an individual or group having a profound influence on the history of
California.
3. A prototype of, or an outstanding example of, a period, style, architectural movement or
construction or is one of the more notable works or the best surviving work in a region of a
pioneer architect, designer or master builder.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Historical resources are recognized as part of the environment under CEQA. The California
Register is the authoritative guide to the State’s historical resources and to which properties are
considered significant for the purposes of CEQA, including resources listed in or formally
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determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, as well as some
California State Landmarks and Points of Historical Interest. Properties of local significance that
have been designed under a local preservation ordinance (local landmarks or landmark district)
or that have been identified in a local historical resources inventory may be eligible for listing in
the California Register and are presumed to be significant resources for the purposes of CEQA
unless a preponderance of evidence indicates otherwise. However, a resource does not need to
have been identified previously either through listing or survey to be considered significant
under CEQA. In addition to assessing whether historical resources potentially impacted by a
project are listed or have been identified in a survey process, lead agencies have a responsibility
to evaluate them against the California Register criteria prior to making a finding as to a
proposed project’s impacts to historical resources.
Public Resources Code Section 5097.5
California PRC Section 5097.5(a) mandates that one cannot, “knowingly and willfully” excavate,
remove, or destroy any “historic or prehistoric ruins, burial grounds, archaeological or
vertebrate paleontological site,” or “any other archaeological, paleontological or historical
feature, situated on public lands, except with the express permission of the public agency
having jurisdiction over the lands.” PRC Section 5097.5(b) defines public lands as those that are
owned by or under the jurisdiction of any state or public authority or agency.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
The City of Dublin General Plan establishes the following guiding policy associated with cultural
resources that is relevant to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 7.7.1.A.2: Follow State regulations as set forth in Public Resources Code
Section 21083.2 regarding discovery of archaeological sites, and Historical Resources, as
defined in Section 5020.1 of the Public Resources Code.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Section 6.3.3 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines policies and programs related to
cultural resources. The following policies related to cultural resources are applicable to the
proposed project:
Policy 6‐24: The presence and significance of archaeological or historic resources will be
determined, and necessary mitigation programs formulated, prior to development
approvals for any of the sites identified in the cultural resource survey prepared for this
plan.
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Policy 6‐25: The discovery of historic or prehistoric remains during grading and
construction will result in the cessation of such activities until the significance and
extent of those remains can be ascertained by a certified archaeologist.
Policy 6‐26: All properties with historic resources which may be impacted by future
development shall be subjected to in‐depth archival research to determine the
significance of the resource prior to any alteration.
Policy 6‐27: Where the disruption of historic resources is unavoidable, encourage the
adaptive re‐use or restoration of historic structures (such as the old school house,
several barns, and Victorian residences currently in the area) whenever feasible.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to the disruption or
destruction of identified and unidentified prehistoric resources, and disruption or destruction
of identified and unidentified historic resources. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce
potential impacts to a less‐than‐significant level. The following mitigation measures would
apply to the proposed project:
MM 3.9/1.0 All locations of prehistoric resources will need a program of mechanical
and/or hand subsurface testing to determine the presence or absence of midden
deposits associated with the surface indictors of aboriginal presence.
MM 3.9/2.0 All locations containing either midden components or concentrations of
cultural materials located on the surface will be recorded on State of California site
survey forms. The borders of any midden deposits or concentrations of cultural
materials (other than single isolated artifact discoveries) will be staked so that accurate
location maps can be produced by professional survey teams.
MM 3.9/3.0 If it can be demonstrated that these recorded and mapped locations will
be impacted in any manner by future construction or indirectly impacted as a result of
increased access to the area, a plan of evaluative testing of each resource will have to
be devised in order to prepare responsive mitigation measures. Evaluative testing will
consist of the collection and analysis of any surface concentrations of cultural materials,
and the hand excavation and analysis of the scientific content of any midden
components discovered during present or absence testing.
MM 3.9/4.0 The City shall retain the services of a qualified archaeologist to develop a
protection program for prehistoric sites which contain either a surface or subsurface
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deposit of cultural materials or information which qualify under Appendix K of CEQA as
“significant” and which are located in areas of the project site where development will
significantly alter the current conditions of the prehistoric resource.
MM 3.9/5.0 The discovery of historic or prehistoric remains during grading and
construction will result in the cessation of such activities until the significant and extent
of those remains can be ascertained by a certified archaeologist.
MM 3.9/6.0 The City of Dublin will require the following series of actions as part of
the application process for development in eastern Dublin: site sensitivity
determination; detailed research and field reconnaissance by a certified archaeologist;
development of a mitigation plan pursuant to the policies of the Eastern Dublin Specific
Plan and current CEQA guidelines.
MM 3.9/7.0 All properties with historic resources, which may be impacted by future
development shall be subjected to in‐depth archival research to determine the
significance of the resources prior to any alteration.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that supplemental impacts to cultural resources
resulting from the Dublin Ranch West project would be less than significant.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to cultural
resources would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project with implementation of the
mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Historic resources
No New Impact. For a cultural resource to be considered a historical resource (i.e., eligible for
listing in the California Register of Historical Resources), it generally must be 50 years or older.
Under CEQA, historical resources can include precontact (i.e., Native American) archaeological
deposits, historic‐period archaeological deposits, historic buildings, and historic districts. CEQA
requires agencies considering projects that are subject to discretionary action to consider the
potential impacts on cultural resources that may occur from project implementation (see CEQA
Guidelines Section 15064.5).
The project site is currently undeveloped; therefore, no built historic resources are located on
the project site. As described in the prior environmental documents, it cannot be entirely be
ruled out that archaeological cultural resources could be encountered during construction at
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the project site. Should archaeological deposits be encountered during project ground
disturbance, a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource would
occur from its demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration such that the significance of the
resource would be materially impaired (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(b)(1)). If such
resources are encountered, implementation of MM 3.9/5.0 and MM 3.9/6.0 identified in the
Eastern Dublin EIR would reduce any potential impacts to archaeological and/or Native
American resources to a less‐than‐significant level. With adherence to MM 3.9/5.0 and MM
3.9/6.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there would be no new or substantially more severe
significant impacts to historic resources beyond what has been analyzed in the prior
environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Archaeological resources
No New Impact. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(c)(1), “When a project will
impact an archaeological site, a lead agency shall first determine whether the site is an
historical resource.” Those archaeological sites that do not qualify as historical resources shall
be assessed to determine if they qualify as “unique archaeological resources” pursuant to
California Public Resource Code Section 21083.2. Archaeological deposits identified during
project construction (if any) shall be treated by the City—in consultation with a qualified
archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards for
Archeology—in accordance with MM 3.9/5.0 and MM 3.9/6.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin
EIR. With adherence to MM 3.9/5.0 and MM 3.9/6.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there
would be no new or substantially more severe significant impacts to archaeological resources
beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is
required.
(c) Human remains
No New Impact. Based on previous archaeological investigation and analysis, there is a low
potential for the disturbance of archaeological cultural resources or human remains. However,
if human remains are encountered at the project site, State Health and Safety Code Section
7050.5 and State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(e)(1) state that no further disturbance shall
occur to the area of the find until the County Coroner has made a determination of origin and
disposition of the human bone pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The County Coroner must be
notified of the find immediately and shall make a determination within two working days of
being notified. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the County Coroner shall
notify the NAHC by phone within 24 hours, and the NAHC shall then immediately determine
and notify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). With the permission of the landowner or his/her
authorized representative, the MLD may inspect the site of the discovery. The MLD shall
complete the inspection and make recommendations or preferences for treatment of the
remains within 48 hours of being granted access to the site. The MLD’s recommendations may
include scientific removal and nondestructive analysis of human remains and items associated
with Native American burials, preservation of Native American human remains and associated
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items in place, relinquishment of Native American human remains and associated items to the
descendants for treatment, or any other culturally appropriate treatment.
Compliance with Section 7050.5 of the California Health and Safety Code and Public Resources
Code Section 5097.98 regarding the treatment of human remains would ensure that potential
impacts to human remains would be less than significant. No new or substantially more severe
significant impacts to human remains would occur beyond what has been analyzed in the prior
environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064m Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Energy
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
The topic of the project’s energy use was not analyzed in the Eastern Dublin EIR, the Dublin
Ranch West SEIR or the 2014 Addendum. The project’s impacts related to energy use are not
required to be analyzed unless they constitute new information of substantial importance that
was not known and could not have been known at the time the previous EIR was certified as
complete (Public Resources Code Section 21166 and the CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and
15163). The impact of energy use was known at the time of the certification of the Eastern
Dublin EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. Under CEQA standards, it is
not new information that requires analysis in a supplemental EIR or negative declaration.
Therefore, no supplemental environmental analysis of the project’s impacts on these issues is
required under CEQA.
(a‐b) Wasteful consumption of energy resources, or conflict with local plans for renewable
energy
As discussed above, no additional environmental analysis is required under CEQA Section
21166.
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Geology and Soils
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
6. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project:
a. Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse
effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i. Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated
on the most recent Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault
Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the
area or based on other substantial evidence of a
known fault?
X
ii. Strong seismic ground shaking?
X
iii. Seismic‐related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
X
iv. Landslides?
X
b. Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
X
c. Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that
would become unstable as a result of the project, and
potentially result in on‐ or off‐site landslide, lateral
spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
X
d. Would the project be located on expansive soil, as defined
in Table 18‐1‐B of the Uniform Building Code (1994),
creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or
property?
X
e. Would the project have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste
water disposal systems where sewers are not available for
the disposal of waste water?
X
f. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological
resource or site or unique geologic feature?
X
Environmental Setting
The project site is located within the Coast Range Geomorphic Province of Northern California.
This province is generally characterized by northwest‐trending mountain ranges and
intervening valleys, which are a reflection of the dominant northwest structural trend of the
bedrock in the region.
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The Calaveras Fault separates the lowlands of the Dublin Valley from the hill areas to the west.
Other active faults in the vicinity of the project site include the San Andreas, Hayward,
Calaveras and Greenville faults, which are all considered active faults. The project site is not
located within a State‐designated Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone.
According to the geotechnical report prepared for the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project, alluvial
soils are present near Tassajara Creek where the proposed project would be located. Alluvial
soils are composed of stiff to very stiff clays with high shrink‐swell potential.
Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act
Following the 1971 San Fernando earthquake, the State legislature passed the Alquist‐Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning (AP) Act, requiring the State Geologist to delineate Earthquake Fault
Zones (EFZ) along known active faults that have high potential for fault rupture. Active faults
are defined as a fault that has surface displacement within the last 11,000 years. The AP Act
also regulates developments near known active faults due to hazards associated with surface
ruptures. As per the AP Act, development areas in or near the Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault
Zone require evaluation for potential surface ruptures in order to ensure public safety. State
regulations prohibit habitable structures from being sited within 50 feet of an active fault.
Seismic Hazards Mapping Act
The State legislature passed the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act (SHMA) to ensure public safety in
regards to the effects of strong ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, and other seismic
hazards. Per the SHMA, the California Geological Survey (CGS) has established a Statewide
mapping program for cities and counties to aid in identifying areas subject to these seismic
hazards, which includes the central San Francisco Bay Area.
California Building Code
The State of California provides a minimum standard for building design and construction
standards through Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), known as the California
Building Code (CBC). The CBC is updated every three years, and the current 2019 CBC went into
effect in January 2020. Generally, the CBC is adopted on a jurisdiction‐by‐jurisdiction basis,
subject to further modification based on local conditions. The CBC defines the requirements for
seismic safety, excavation, and construction activities relating to foundations, retaining walls,
and site demolition. It also regulates grading activities such as drainage and erosion control.
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California Public Resources Code Section 5097.5
Section 5097.5 of the California Public Resources Code prohibits the excavation, removal,
destruction, or tampering with any paleontological resources situated on public lands, except
with the express permission of a public agency with jurisdiction over the lands.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
Chapter 8.0 of the General Plan outlines policies and programs related to seismic safety, safety
and emergency preparedness. The following policies related to geology and soils are applicable
to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 8.2.1.A.1. Geologic hazards shall be mitigated or development shall be
located away from geologic hazards in order to preserve life, protect property, and
reasonably limit the financial risks to the City of Dublin and other public agencies that
would result from damage to poorly located public facilities.
Implementing Policy 8.2.1.B.1. Structural and Grading Requirements
a. All structures shall be designed to the standards delineated in the Dublin Building
Code and Dublin’s Grading Ordinance. A “design earthquake” shall be established by
an engineering geologist for each structure for which ground shaking is a significant
design factor.
b. Structures intended for human occupancy shall be at least 50 feet from any active
fault trace; freestanding garages and storage structures may be as close as 25 feet.
These distances may be reduced based on adequate exploration to accurately locate
the fault trace.
c. Generally, facilities should not be built astride potential rupture zones, although
certain low‐risk facilities may be considered. Critical facilities that must cross a fault,
such as oil, gas, and water lines, shall be designed to accommodate the maximum
expected offset from fault rupture. Site specific evaluations shall determine the
maximum credible offset.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Section 6.4.1 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines policies and programs related to
geology, soils and grading. The following policies related to geology and soils are applicable to
the proposed project:
Policy 6‐40: No structure shall be located on slopes of between 20 to 30 percent, where
this location is downslope of colluvium or dormant landslides on slopes over 30 percent,
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unless detailed feasibility and design‐level geotechnical investigations indicate that
development can be safety undertaken and/or mitigation measures can be
implemented which will reduce impacts to a level of insignificance
.
Policy 6‐41: No structure shall be located on slopes of 10‐30 percent, where underlain
by highly expansive soils, areas of unconsolidated fill, or within 100 feet of incised
stream channels, unless detailed feasibility and design‐level geotechnical investigations
are undertaken and required engineered design mitigations performed.
Policy 6‐42: Development is generally not permitted in areas with slopes of 30 percent
or greater. Limited grading and repair of landslides will be permitted in areas with
slopes of 30 percent or more when:
the area involved is less than 3 acres in size; is less than 20percent of a larger
developable area; and is surrounded by topography which is predominantly less than
30 percent; and it is necessary to create effective buildable areas or access to areas
with slopes predominantly less than 30 percent; and
it is necessary to create effective buildable areas or access to areas with slopes
predominantly less than 30 percent.
Policy 6‐43: New development shall be designed to provide effective control of soil
erosion as a result of construction activities and the alteration of site drainage
characteristics.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related earthquake ground
shaking, alteration of landforms, expansive soils, landslide and slope stability, and erosion and
sedimentation. With the exception of the primary effects associated with seismic ground
shaking, which was determined to be significant and unavoidable, all other impacts related to
geology and soils would be reduced to less than significant with implementation of the
mitigation measure identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR. The following mitigation measures
would apply to the proposed project:
MM 3.6/1.0 The primary effects of ground shaking to structures and infrastructures
can be reduced to a generally acceptable level below failure/loss of life by using modern
seismic design for resistance to lateral forces in construction. Building in accordance
with Uniform Building Code and applicable County and City code requirements should
reduce the potential for structural failure, major structural damage, and loss of life.
However, some structural damage may occur, and it is possible that some
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residences/structures and infrastructures will not be safe for occupation/use after a
large earthquake.
MM 3.6/2.0 In relatively flat areas which can be developed with minimal grading (the
southern portion of the Project site and along Tassajara and Cottonwood Creeks):
Locate improvements off (setback from) unstable and potentially unstable landforms
such as landslides, colluvium filled swales, creek banks, and steep hill slopes.
Remove, stabilize or reconstruct potentially unstable landforms, or
Employ modern design, including appropriate foundation design and applicable codes
and policies, in the construction of improvements that must be located on potentially
unstable landforms or in areas underlain by alluvium with shallow groundwater levels
which could be locally susceptible to liquefaction.
MM 3.6/4.0 Engineered retention structures and surface and subsurface drainage
improvement should be uses as appropriate to improve the stability of sidehill fills and
potentially unstable materials, particularly colluvium not entirely removed by grading.
MM 3.6/5.0 Seismically‐induced fill settlement can be substantially reduced if fills are
properly designed with keyways and subsurface drainage, and are adequately
compacted (i.e., minimum 90 percent relative compaction as defined by the American
Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test method D1557).
MM 3.6/6.0 Design roads, structural foundations, and underground utilities to
accommodate estimated settlement without failure, especially across transitions
between fills and cuts. Potentially unstable stock pond embankments should be
removed in development areas, unless they are reconstructed to current earthquake
design standards.
MM 3.6/7.0 Final design of improvements in the Project site should be made in
conjunction with a design‐level geotechnical investigations and the reports should be
submitted to the City of review prior to issuing any permits. These investigations should
incorporate stability analysis of both natural slopes that could impact planned
improvements, and planned engineered (cut and fill) slopes, assuming saturated
conditions and earthquake shaking. Significant slopes should achieve a minimum factor
of safety against failure of 1.5 for static conditions (where 1.0 is failure) and 1.2 under
design pseudo‐static earthquake loading. A displacement analysis should be performed
for critical slopes to confirm the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
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MM 3.6/14.0 The potential impact of expansive soils and rock with respect to Project
improvements can be significantly reduced, or in many cases prevented by the
recognition and characterization of site‐specific conditions, and the formulation of
appropriate design‐level geotechnical investigation conducted for each specific
proposed project.
MM 3.6/15.0 The potential for shrink and swell of expansive soils and rock can be
reduced by controlling moisture and by treatment through measures listed below.
Subsurface drainage alone is not generally effective against the effects of regional
wet/drought cycles. Required measures for a specific project should be based on the
recommendation of the project geotechnical consultant and approved by the City and
include:
Moisture conditioning prior to construction;
Construction of surface and subsurface drainage to control infiltration after
construction;
Lime treatment, which can be used to produce non‐expansive fill.
MM 3.6/16.0 The potential effects of expansive soil can be reduced by appropriate
foundation and pavement design, including those design elements listed below.
Adjustable foundation systems are not generally effective against the effects of
regional wet/drought cycles and are considered undesirable because the systems
require periodic maintenance, and their use should be discouraged. Appropriate
design criteria should be developed by the project geotechnical consultant and
approved by the City:
Founding structural foundations below the zone of seasonal moisture change;
Use of structurally supported floors; and
Removal and replacement with non‐expansive fill beneath structure slabs and
asphaltic concrete.
MM 3.6/27.0 The potential impacts of short‐term construction‐related erosion and
sedimentation can be reduced by timing grading activities to avoid the rainy season as
much as possible, and by implementing one or more of the following interim control
measures, which are designed to prevent concentration of runoff, control runoff
velocity, and trap silt. Required measures for a specific project will be determined by the
City and be a requirement of the grading permit.
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Water bars;
Mulch‐and‐net blankets on exposed slopes;
Straw bale dikes;
Temporary culverts and swales;
Sediment traps; and/or
Silt fences.
MM 3.6/28.0 The potential impacts of long‐term erosion and sedimentation can be
reduced by the appropriate design, construction, and continued maintenance of surface
and subsurface drainage of one or more of the following long‐term control measures.
Required measures for a specific project should be based on the recommendations of
the project geotechnical consultants, and approved by the City.
Construction of sediment catch basins at strategic locations to prevent off site
sedimentation from existing and/or potential onsite sources;
Design and construction of storm sewer systems that incorporate the cumulative
effects of project buildout
Creek bank stabilization and repair of existing gullies;
Revegetation and continued maintenance of graded slopes;
Construction of drainage ditches or cut and fill slopes and/or natural slopes above
developed areas;
Closed downspout collection systems for individual structures;
Design of cut and fill slopes to minimize, as much as possible, natural low velocity
sheet flow runoff; and
Periodic homeowner/landowner maintenance.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Geology and soils were addressed in the Initial Study for the SEIR. No potentially significant
impacts or mitigation measures were identified.
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2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to geology and
soils would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project with implementation of the
mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Seismic hazards
No New Impact. Potential impacts related to seismic hazards are described below.
Fault Rupture. The project site is not located within or adjacent to an Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zone. Therefore, the project would have no impact related to fault rupture.
Ground Shaking. The project site and the entire San Francisco Bay Area are located in a
seismically active region subject to strong seismic ground shaking. Ground shaking is a general
term referring to all aspects of motion of the earth’s surface resulting from an earthquake, and
is normally the major cause of damage in seismic events. The extent of ground‐shaking is
controlled by the magnitude and intensity of the earthquake, distance from the epicenter, and
local geologic conditions. The magnitude of a seismic event is a measure of the energy released
by an earthquake; it is assessed by seismographs that measure the amplitude of seismic waves.
The intensity of an earthquake is a subjective measure of the perceptible effects of a seismic
event at a given point. The Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale is the most commonly used
scale to measure the subjective effects of earthquake intensity. It uses values ranging from I to
XII.
Mapping has been compiled by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) for the likely shaking intensities in the Bay Area
that would have a 10 percent chance of occurring in any 50‐year period. A large earthquake
(magnitude 6.7 or greater) on one of the major active faults in the region would generate
severe (MMI 8) ground shaking at the project site.
The most significant adverse impact associated with strong seismic shaking is potential damage
to structures and improvements. No habitable structures would be constructed as part of the
proposed project; however, implementation of the proposed project would increase the use of
the project site and result in the construction of improvements in areas subject to seismic
shaking. The risk of ground shaking impacts is reduced through adherence to the design and
materials standards set forth in building codes. The City of Dublin has adopted the 2019 CBC
(Title 24, Part 2 of the California Code of Regulations), which provides for stringent construction
requirements on projects in areas of high seismic risk. Consistent with MM 3.6/1.0 and MM
3.6/2.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, the design and construction for the proposed
project would be required to conform with, or exceed, current best standards for earthquake
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resistant construction in accordance with the most recent CBC adopted by the City and with the
generally accepted standards of geotechnical practice for seismic design in Northern California.
With adherence to MM 3.6/1.0 and MM 3.6/2.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there
would be no new or substantially more severe significant impacts related to ground shaking
beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is
required.
Liquefaction. Liquefaction is the transformation of loose, fine‐grained sediment to a fluid‐like
state similar to quicksand. This phenomenon occurs due to strong seismic activity, and lessens
the soil’s ability to support a structural foundation. The primary factors affecting the possibility
of liquefaction in soil are: (1) intensity and duration of earthquake shaking; (2) soil type and
relative density; (3) overburden pressures; and (4) depth to groundwater. Soil most susceptible
to liquefaction is clean, loose, fine‐grained sands and non‐plastic silts that are saturated.
The California Geological Survey (CGS) has mapped Seismic Hazard Zones that delineate areas
susceptible to liquefaction and/or landslides that require proposed new developments in these
areas to conduct additional investigation to determine the extent and magnitude of potential
ground failure. According to mapping by CGS, the project site is located in an area mapped as a
liquefaction hazard zone. The proposed project would be designed and constructed consistent
with the most current earthquake resistance standards for Seismic Zone 4 in the CBC, which
includes specifications for site preparation, such as compaction requirements for foundations.
In addition, implementation of mitigation measures MM 3.6/2.0, MM 3.6/4.0, MM 3.6/5.0, MM
3.6/6.0, and MM 3.6/7.0, identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and described above would
reduce potential impacts associated with these hazards to less than significant.
Landslide. The proposed project is located on gently sloping terrain and the potential for
landslide is low. The project would not result in any new habitable structures and therefore
would not expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects from landslides.
This impact would be less than significant.
With adherence to the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there would be
no new or substantially more severe significant impacts related to seismic hazards beyond what
has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Erosion/topsoil loss
No New Impact. The potential for soil erosion exists during the period of earthwork activities
and between the time when earthwork is completed and new vegetation is established or
hardscape is installed. Exposed soils could be entrained in stormwater runoff and transported
off the project site. Construction specifications require the preparation of a Stormwater
Pollution and Prevention Plan (SWPPP) prior to any ground disturbance activities as required by
the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit (GP) for
Construction (Order 2009‐009‐DWQ). The SWPPP would provide the details of the erosion
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control measures to be applied on the project site during the construction period, including
Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion control that are recognized by the RWQCB.
Additional details regarding the SWPPP are provided in Section 9, Hydrology and Water Quality.
In addition, the proposed project would be required to comply with MM 3.6/27.0 and MM
3.6/28.0, identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and described above, to reduce short‐ and long‐
term erosion and sedimentation associated with project construction and operation.
With adherence to the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and compliance
with regulatory requirements, there would be no new or substantially more severe significant
impacts related to erosion beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
(c‐d) Soil stability
No New Impact. Expansive soils are characterized by the potential for shrinking and swelling as
the moisture content of the soil decreases and increases, respectively. Shrink‐swell potential is
influenced by the amount and type of clay minerals present and can be measured by the
percent change of the soil volume. Soils underlying the project site are primarily composed of
Clear Lake clay, drained, 0 to 2 percent slopes, according to the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. Clear Lake clay is a
very deep, poorly drained soil type, with high shrink‐swell potential.
The proposed project would be designed and constructed consistent with the most current
earthquake resistance standards for Seismic Zone 4 in the CBC, which includes specifications for
site preparation, such as compaction requirements for foundations. Therefore, the project site
is not anticipated to become unstable as a result of the proposed project, or potentially result
in on‐ or off‐site landslides, liquefaction, lateral spreading or settlement. In addition,
implementation of mitigation measures MM 3.6/2.0, MM 3.6/4.0, MM 3.6/5.0, MM 3.6/6.0,
and MM 3.6/7.0, identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and described above would reduce
potential impacts associated with unstable soils to a less‐than‐significant level. With adherence
to the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and compliance with standard
City development requirements, there would be no new or substantially more severe significant
impacts related to soil stability beyond what has been analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
(e) Soil capability to support waste water disposal, including septic
No New Impact. The proposed project would connect to the existing wastewater conveyance
system. On‐site treatment and disposal of wastewater is not proposed for the project;
therefore, the proposed project would have no impacts associated with soils incapable of
supporting alternative wastewater disposal systems. No new impacts or substantially more
severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
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(f) Paleontological/unique geological resources
No New Impact. No paleontological resources or unique geologic features are known to exist
within the project site and ground disturbance for the proposed project is not expected to
extend deep enough to affect native soils or to impact scientifically important paleontological
resources. If such resources are encountered during ground‐disturbing activities,
implementation of MM 3.9/5.0 and MM 3.9/6.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR would
reduce any potential impacts to paleontological resources to a less‐than‐significant level. With
adherence to MM 3.9/5.0 and MM 3.9/6.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there would be
no new or substantially more severe significant impacts to paleontological resources beyond
what has been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is
required.
Source(s)
California Geological Survey. 2019. California Earthquake Hazards Zone Application. Website:
maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/EQZApp/app/ (accessed June 26, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Metropolitan Transportation Commission and Association of Bay Area Governments. 2018.
Probabilistic Earthquake Shaking Hazard Map. Website:
mtc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=4a6f3f1259df42eab29b35dfc
d086fc8 (accessed June 25, 2021).
United States Department of Agriculture. Natural Resources Conservation Service. Web Soil
Survey. Website: websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx (accessed
June 27, 2021).
United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service. 1975. Soil Survey of
Alameda County, Western Part. Available online at:
www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MANUSCRIPTS/california/CA610/0/alameda.pdf
(accessed June 27, 2021).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
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Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 69
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064m Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
Since the Eastern Dublin EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR were certified before greenhouse
gas (GHG) emission analysis became a CEQA requirement in 2006, the determination of
whether GHG emissions and climate change need to be analyzed for this proposed project is
governed by the law on supplemental or subsequent EIRs (Public Resources Code Section 21166
and CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15163).
The topic of the project’s contribution to GHG emissions was not analyzed in the Eastern Dublin
EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR or the 2014 Addendum. However, these impacts are not
required to be analyzed unless they constitute new information of substantial importance that
was not known and could not have been known at the time the previous EIR was certified as
complete (Public Resources Code Section 21166 and the CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and
15163). The impact of GHG emissions was known at the time of the certification of the Eastern
Dublin EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. Under CEQA standards, it is
not new information that requires analysis in a supplemental EIR or negative declaration.
Therefore, no supplemental environmental analysis of the project’s impacts on this issues is
required under CEQA.
(a‐b) Generate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or conflict with GHG plans or regulations
As discussed above, no additional environmental analysis is required under CEQA Section
21166.
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Hazards and Hazardous Materials
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project:
a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous
materials?
X
b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident
conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into
the environment?
X
c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely
hazardous materials, substances, or waste within ¼ mile of
an existing or proposed school?
X
d. Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous
materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code
Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a
significant hazard to the public or the environment?
X
e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles
of a public airport or public use airport, would the project
result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people
residing or working in the project area?
X
f. Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an
adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
X
g. Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to
a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland
fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized
areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands?
X
Environmental Setting
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) was prepared for the Wallis Ranch/Trumark
project. The Phase I ESA evaluated the potential for past land uses to have impacted the
environmental condition of the site through the review of historical information sources (e.g.,
historic aerial photos and maps) and government databases that list hazardous materials
release sites and facilities that handle hazardous materials. According to the 2014 Addendum,
the Phase ESA did not identify any recognized environmental conditions within the Wallis
Ranch/Trumark project area, within which the project site is located.
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Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Notification to the FAA is required for the construction of any tower or the alteration of an
antenna structure that is registered with the Commission’s Antenna Structure Registration
(ASR) system. Generally, towers that meet certain height and location requirements (e.g., are
more than 200 feet above ground level and/or are located within proximity of an airport)
require notice with the FAA and ASR system and must register with the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC). A final determination of “no hazard” is required from the
FAA prior to any construction or alteration of facilities.
California Environmental Protection Agency
The California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) was formed in 1991 to preserve and
protect the environment and to ensure public health and safety in relation to environmental
laws and regulations. The CalEPA manages the State’s natural resources in a cohesive, cabinet‐
based system. Additionally, the CalEPA implements the Unified Program, which ensures
consistency in the administrative and enforcement actions taken in regards to hazardous waste
and materials.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 1976 authorized the USEPA to control
hazardous waste from “cradle‐to‐grave,” which includes the generation, transportation,
treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Additionally, RCRA established regulations
for managing non‐hazardous solid wastes. In 1986, amendments to RCRA provided authority to
the USEPA to manage environmental problems that could result from underground tanks
storing petroleum and other hazardous substances.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
Commonly known as Superfund, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation,
and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980 established regulations concerning closed and abandoned
hazardous waste sites. Additionally, it provided regulations regarding liability for closed and
abandoned hazardous waste sites and established a trust fund for cleanup when no liability is
found.
California Department of Toxic Substances and Control
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is a sub‐department under the
CalEPA and manages the federal hazardous waste program within the State. The department
regulates the lifecycle of hazardous waste and sets goals for reducing hazardous waste
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production. The program follows federal and State law to ensure hazardous waste managers
correctly handle, store, transport, dispose, reduce, and clean waste, and are equipped in the
event of an emergency.
Government Code Section 65962.5
CalEPA is required by Section 65962.5 of the Government Code to develop and update a list of
hazardous waste and substances sites, known as the Cortese List. The SWRCB and DTSC identify
hazardous substance release sites included on the Cortese List, which is used by State and local
agencies to ensure CEQA compliance.
California Building Code
The State of California provides a minimum standard for building design construction standards
through Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) through the CBC, which is located in
Part 2 of Title 24. The CBC is updated every three years, and the current 2019 CBC went into
effect in January 2020. It is generally adopted on a jurisdiction‐by‐jurisdiction basis, subject to
further modification based on local conditions. City building officials monitor commercial and
residential building plans to ensure compliance with fire safety standards within the CBC.
California Fire Code
The California Fire Code includes regulations for emergency planning, fire service features, fire
protection systems, hazardous materials, fire flow requirements, and fire hydrant locations and
distribution. Several fire safety requirements include: installation of sprinklers in all high‐rise
buildings; the establishment of fire resistance standards for fire doors, building materials, and
particular types of construction; and the clearance of debris and vegetation within a prescribed
distance from occupied structures in wildlife hazard areas. Chapter 5.08 of the City’s Municipal
Code adopts the California Fire Code by reference, which is updated every three years.
California Emergency Management Agency
The California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) was consolidated as part of the
Governor’s Office on January 1, 2009, merging the former Governor’s Office of Emergency
Services with the existing Governor’s Office of Homeland Security. CalEMA coordinates all State
agency response to major disasters to provide support and hazard mitigation efforts for local
governments. The agency also ensures the State has the appropriate resources and plans in
order to respond in the event of all natural and human‐induced emergencies and disasters.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) maps the predicted threat
of fire within all of California. CALFIRE categorizes this threat based on factors including fuel
availability, topography, fire history, and climate. These threats are ranked on a threshold from
no fire threat, moderate, high, and very high fire threat. The 2012 Strategic Fire Plan for
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California was generated by CALFIRE to provide guidelines and objectives in order to account
for associated fire impacts. The Strategic Plan was recently updated in January 2019.
California Accidental Release Prevention Program
The California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) Program aims to prevent accidental
releases of regulated hazardous materials that represent a potential hazard beyond property
boundaries. Facilities that are required to participate in the CalARP Program use or store
specified quantities of toxic and flammable substances (hazardous materials) that can have off‐
site consequences if accidentally released. A Risk Management Plan (RMP) is required for such
facilities. The intent of the RMP is to provide basic information that may be used by first
responders in order to prevent or mitigate damage to the public health and safety and to the
environment from a release or threatened release of a hazardous material, and to satisfy
federal and state Community Right‐to‐Know laws. The Alameda County Department of
Environmental Health reviews CalARP risk management plans as the Certified Unified Program
Agency (CUPA).
Regional and Local Regulations
San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board
The Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act established the State Water Resources Control
Board (SWRCB) and nine regional water boards including the San Francisco Bay Regional Water
Quality Control Board (RWQCB). The San Francisco Bay RWQCB oversees the regulation of
waterways within the City of Dublin, and can order groundwater investigations and remediation
actions in the event that either groundwater or State surface waters are susceptible to threat.
City of Dublin General Plan
Section 8.3.4 of the General Plan outlines policies and programs related to hazards and
hazardous materials. The following policies related to hazardous materials are applicable to the
proposed project:
Guiding Policy 8.3.4.1.A.1. Maintain and enhance the ability to regulate the use,
transport, and storage of hazardous materials and to quickly identify substances and
take appropriate action during emergencies.
Guiding Policy 8.3.4.1.A.2. Minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous materials from
contaminated sites.
Implementing Policy 8.3.4.1.B.4. Require site‐specific hazardous materials studies for
new development projects where there is a potential for the presence of hazardous
materials from previous uses on the site. If hazardous materials are found, require the
clean‐up of sites to acceptable regulatory standards prior to development.
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Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
According to Section 11.4.7 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, some former uses of the land
(e.g., agriculture, medical services, manufacturing) within Eastern Dublin involved the use of
hazardous materials. Remnants of these materials may remain on lands within the Eastern
Dublin area. The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan includes the following policy to address potential
hazardous materials:
Policy 11‐1 Prior to issuance of building permits for site‐specific Phase I (and if necessary
Phase II) environmental site assessments shall be made available to the Community
Development Director, with appropriate documentation that all recommended
remediation actions have been completed.
City of Dublin Wildfire Management Plan
In 1996, the City adopted the City of Dublin Wildfire Management Plan to reduce the risk of
open land wildfire while protecting wildlife habitat and other open space values. The Wildfire
Management Plan outline responsibilities for the maintenance of open space, funding source
for open space maintenance, submittal requirements for review and approval, construction
requirements for buildings adjacent to open space or other undeveloped land, emergency
access to open space area, and vegetation standards.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR did not identify any impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials.
The Eastern Dublin EIR did identify potentially significant impacts related to wildfire and fire
hazards. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce potential impacts to a less‐than‐
significant level. The following mitigation measures would apply to the proposed project:
MM 3.5/9.0 Incorporate DRFA recommendations on project design related to access,
water pressure, fire safety and prevention into the requirements for development
approval. Required that the following DRFA design standards are incorporated where
appropriate:
■ Use of non‐combustible roof materials in all new construction.
■ Available capacity of 1,000 gallons per minute (gpm) at 20 pounds per square inch
(PSI) fire flow from project fire hydrants on public water mains. For groupings of one‐
family and small two‐family dwellings not exceeding two stories in height, the fire flow
requirements are a minimum of 1,000 gpm. Fire flow requirements for all other
buildings will be calculated based on building size, type of construction, and location.
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■ A buffer zone along the backs of homes which are contiguous with the wildland are.
This buffer zone is to be landscaped with irrigated (wet banding) or equivalent fire‐
resistive vegetation.
■ Compliance with DRFA minimum road widths, maximum street slopes, parking
recommendations, and secondary access road requirements.
■ Require residential structures outside the DRFA’s established response time and zone
to include fire alarm systems and sprinklers.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Hazards and hazardous materials were addressed in the Initial Study for the SEIR. No potentially
significant hazardous materials impacts or additional mitigation measures beyond those
identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR were identified.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to hazardous
materials would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project than were previously analyzed in
the prior environmental documents.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Exposure to hazardous materials
No New Impact. The proposed project would result in the construction of a community park.
Park land uses typically do not involve transport, use, or disposal of significant quantities of
hazardous materials. However, operation of the proposed project could involve the use,
handling, and storage of small quantities of commercially‐available hazardous materials (e.g.,
paint, cleaning supplies, pesticides, and herbicides). However, hazardous materials stored and
used at the site would be required to be managed in accordance with applicable local, State,
and federal hazardous materials regulations that would reduce risks associated with leakage,
explosions, fires, or the escape of harmful gases. Because the proposed project would generate
small quantities of hazardous materials similar in nature, type, and volume to the uses
anticipated in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, Dublin Ranch West project, and the Wallis
Ranch/Trumark project, the project would not result in new impacts or substantially more
severe significant impact related to the routine use, storage, or disposal of hazardous materials,
beyond those analyzed in the prior environmental documents.
During project construction, hazardous materials such as fuel, lubricants, paint, sealants, and
adhesives would be transported and used at the project site. The proposed project would be
required to comply with federal, State, and local regulations regarding the transportation, use,
and disposal of hazardous materials, including preparation and implementation of a Storm
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Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that requires implementation of control measures for
hazardous material storage and soil stockpiles, inspections, maintenance, and training, and
containment of releases to prevent runoff into existing storm collection systems or waterways.
Compliance with existing regulations and implementation of the SWPPP during construction
would ensure that potential impacts associated with hazardous material use, transport, and
disposal are considered less than significant. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more
severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Upset/accident
No New Impact. The proposed project would not involve storage or use of hazardous materials
(except for small quantities for routine maintenance as described above) or generation of
significant hazardous wastes. As such, potential significant impacts related to a foreseeable
upset would not be expected.
During construction, hazardous materials such as fuel, lubricants, paint, sealants, and adhesives
would be transported and used at the project site. Management of these materials at the
project site would be subject to the requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit. Compliance with the Construction
General Permit would require preparation and implementation of a Stormwater Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) designed to reduce the risk of spills or leaks from the reaching the
environment. The SWPPP would also include a Spill Response Plan to address minor spills of
hazardous materials. Compliance with SWPPP requirements would ensure that potential
significant hazards associated with routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials
during and after construction would be less than significant.
As previously described, the Phase I ESA prepared for the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project did not
identify any recognized environmental conditions within the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project site,
within which the project site is located. Compliance with all applicable local, State, and federal
regulations and standards pertaining to the release of hazardous materials and risk of upset
would ensure that impacts associated with the release of hazardous materials would be less
than significant. No new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts would occur.
No additional analysis is required.
(c) Near school
No New Impact. The Quarry Lane High School is located across Tassajara Road from the project
site. No other schools are located within 0.25 mile of the project site. As described in Sections
3.8.1.a and 3.8.1.b, the City would be required to comply with all applicable local, State, and
federal regulations and standards related to hazardous emissions and materials. Therefore, no
new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional
analysis is required.
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(d) Hazardous materials list
No New Impact. Government Code Section 65962.5 states that the California Department of
Toxic Substances shall compile and maintain annually a list of hazardous waste facilities subject
to corrective action as part of the Health and Safety Code. This list is commonly referred to as
the Cortese List. The project site is not located on the Regional Water Quality Control Board’s
Leaking Underground Tank Cleanup Site (LUST) or any other Cleanup Program Sites (formerly
known as spills, leaks, investigations, and cleanups or SLIC). These two components comprise
the State Cortese List of known hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government
Code Section 65962.5. Therefore, no new impact or substantially more severe significant impact
related to being located on a list of hazardous materials site compiled pursuant to Government
Code Section 65962.5 would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(e) Proximity to a public airport
No New Impact. The project site is not located within an airport land use plan, or within 2 miles
of a public airport or public use airport. The closest airports to the project site are the
Livermore Municipal Airport, located approximately 3.6 miles southeast of the project site and
the Hayward Executive Airport, located approximately 4.5 miles west. The proposed project
would include development of a community park. Proposed improvements would be largely at‐
grade. The proposed project would not increase residential density, would not be an
incompatible land use, would not add structures of a height such that it would create a hazard
or obstruction, and would not result in the addition of a characteristic that would create a
hazard to air navigation. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in new impacts or
substantially more severe significant impacts than were analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
(f) Impair implementation of an emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan
No New Impact. The Tri‐Valley Local Hazard Mitigation Plan was developed in compliance with
State requirements and also meets the requirements of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) as the City’s local hazard mitigation plan. The Tri‐Valley Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan provides a uniform hazard mitigation strategy for the Tri‐Valley area, addressing a range of
hazards including, but not limited to, earthquakes, floods and wildland fire. The City of Dublin
also has an adopted Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and a Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan to assess hazards and mitigate risks prior to a disaster event.
The proposed project would construct a community park within an existing residential
neighborhood. It is not located along an identified evacuation route, nor would it affect local
roadways. The proposed project would not interfere with an adopted emergency response plan
or emergency evacuation plan. Because the proposed project would not substantially alter or
block the adjacent roadways, the proposed project would not be expected to impair the
function of nearby emergency evacuation routes. Therefore, the proposed project would not
result in new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts related to
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implementation of an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. No
additional analysis is required.
(g) Expose people or structures to wildland fires
No New Impact. A wildland fire is a fire occurring in a suburban or rural area which contains
uncultivated land, timber, range, brush, or grasslands. Wildland fires are primarily a concern in
areas where there is a mix of developed and undeveloped lands. The project site is located
within a moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a State Responsibility Area (SRA), as
mapped by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The proposed
project does not involve construction of residential or commercial structures or any other
structures for human occupation, and people would use the park for a limited duration of time.
As described above, the proposed project would be required to adhere to mitigation measures
identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the City’s Wildfire Management Plan. With adherence
to MM 3.9/9.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, there would be no new or substantially
more severe significant impacts related to wildland fires beyond what has been analyzed in the
prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
CAL FIRE. 2020. California Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Website: egis.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ/
(accessed June 25, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2010. City of Dublin Wildfire Management Plan, Adopted July 9, 1996, Revised
March 5, 2002 and November 2, 2010.
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Hydrology and Water Quality
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project:
a. Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or
groundwater quality?
X
b. Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere
substantially with groundwater recharge such that the
project may impede sustainable groundwater management
of the basin?
X
c. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site
or area, including through the alteration of the course of a
stream or river or through the addition of impervious
surfaces, in a manner which would:
X
i. Result in substantial erosion or siltation on‐ or off‐
site;
X
ii. Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface
runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on‐
or offsite;
X
iii. Create or contribute runoff water which would
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff; or
X
iv. Impede or redirect flood flows?
X
d. In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of
pollutants due to project inundation?
X
e. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality
control plan or sustainable groundwater management
plan?
X
Environmental Setting
The project site is located within the Tassajara Creek watershed, which drains an approximately
23.2 square mile basin east of the San Francisco Bay via the Arroyo Del Valle and Arroyo de La
Laguna. Tassajara Creek flows in a north‐south direction through the project site. The site is
located within the jurisdiction of Zone 7 of the Alameda County Flood Control and Water
Conservation District.
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According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map
Panel 06001C0326G (August 3, 2009), the majority of the project site is located in Zone X, Area
of Minimal Flood Hazard, which is not considered a special flood hazard area. The Tassajara
Creek channel, which bisects the site, is designated as Zone A, which is a special flood hazard
area.
Tassajara Creek is not currently listed as impaired on the current Clean Water Act Section
303(d) List of Impaired Waters; however, Arroyo Del Valle and Arroyo de La Laguna are both
listed as impaired due to diazinon associated with urban‐related runoff.
Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
Clean Water Act
The USEPA adopted the Clean Water Act (CWA) in 1977 to set a framework for establishing
regulations to protect the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters. The
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) under section 402(p) of the CWA aims
to reduce the direct discharge of pollutants into waterways and manage additional pollution
runoff. The San Francisco Bay RWQCB has the authority to administer permits within its
jurisdiction including the City of Dublin. Section 303(d) of the CWA requires that each state
identify “impaired” water bodies or segments of water bodies that do not meet at least one of
the listed state water‐quality standards. When the water body or segment is listed as impaired,
the state institutes a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for the pollutant found to be creating
the impairment. The TMDL is the maximum amount of a pollutant that a water body can
receive and still meet water‐quality standards, and is usually calculated based on the total
amount of allowable loads generated by a single pollutant deriving from all of its originating
point and non‐point sources. The 303(d) list identifies water bodies that will need to establish a
TMDL in the future in order to abide by water‐quality standards. As per 303(d), the RWQCB has
identified impaired water bodies within its authority as well as the associated pollutants
causing the impairment.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
As described above, the NPDES was established under the CWA to regulate municipal, industrial
and stormwater discharges to the surface waters of the United States, including discharges
from municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s). All entities that discharge pollutants into
an identified waterbody of the United States are required to obtain a NPDES permit.
The proposed project is subject to the conditions of the Municipal Regional Permit (MRP)
(Order No. R2‐2015‐0049 NPDES Permit No. CAS612008). The C.3 Stormwater Technical
Guidance updated in February 2021 as per the Alameda County Clean Water Program, outlines
low impact development provisions that the MS4 permit holders can use during planning of
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development activities to manage and reduce occurrences of stormwater runoff pollutant
discharges. These low impact development methods aim to preserve existing natural
landscapes to minimize imperviousness and water quality impacts.
National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program exists under the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) to distinguish and evaluate flood hazards. FEMA generated Flood Insurance
Rate Maps (FIRMs) identify the location of these potential flooding hazards and help plan for
the correct land use and floodplain development within those locations. Information for FIRMs
is generated by Flood Insurance Studies (FISs). Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) are
distinguished via FIRMs.
Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act
California adopted the Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Act in 1969, giving the SWRCB and
regional water quality control boards the authority over State water rights and policies in
relation to managing and enforcing water quality. The regional boards adopt Water Quality
Control Plans (Basin Plans) that outline their region’s water quality conditions and standards as
well as beneficial uses of the region’s ground and surface water. The City of Dublin lies within
the boundaries Region 2 governed by the San Francisco Bay RWQCB. The most recent Basin
Plan for the San Francisco Bay Watershed was updated by the RWQCB in 2015 and is revised
periodically to reflect relevant ecological, technological, and political changes. The Basin also
includes water quality standards for groundwater.
Statewide Construction General Permit
Construction projects or activities that are one acre or more must obtain a General Permit for
Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities, or a
Construction General Permit from the SWRCB. Prior to construction, the Project Applicant must
submit online Permit Registration Document (PRDs) to the Stormwater Multiple Application
and Report Tracking System (SMARTS) website. The PRDs include a Notice of Intent (NOI), Risk
Assessment, Post‐Construction Calculations, a Site Map, the Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Plan (SWPPP), a signed certification by the Project Applicant, and the first annual fee.
Applicants are also required develop BMPs in accordance with the development of a SWPPP.
The SWPPP maps the boundaries of the Project site, identifying the existing and proposed
structures and roads within the vicinity of the site, as well as stormwater collection and
discharge points and drainage patterns. These BMPs should address strategies to prevent soil
erosion and the proper treatment and discharge of other pollutants generated by construction,
which could contaminate waterways on or nearby the site. A SWPPP must also include a visual
chemical monitoring program of nonvisible pollutants and a sediment‐monitoring program. As
the Project site is larger than one acre, it is subject to these listed requirements.
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Sustainable Groundwater Management Act
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act of 2014 (SGMA) is a comprehensive three‐bill
package that was signed into California State law in September 2014. The SGMA that provides a
framework for sustainable management of groundwater supplies by local authorities, with a
limited role for State intervention only if necessary to protect the resource. The plan is
intended to ensure a reliable groundwater water supply for California for years to come.
The SGMA requires the formation of local groundwater sustainability agencies (GSAs) that must
assess conditions in their local water basins and adopt locally based management plans. The act
requires that GSAs implement plans and achieve long‐term groundwater sustainability within
20 years of implementation of the SGMA.
City of Dublin General Plan
Sections 7.2 and 7.3 of the General Plan outlines policies and programs related to stream
corridors and riparian areas and erosion and siltation control. The following policies related to
hydrology and water quality are applicable to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 7.2.1.A.1. Protect riparian vegetation as a protective buffer for stream
quality and for its value as a habitat and aesthetic resource.
Guiding Policy 7.2.1.A.2. Promote access to stream corridors for passive recreational
use and to allow stream maintenance and improvements as necessary, while respecting
the privacy of owners of property abutting stream corridors.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.1. Enforce Watercourse Ordinance 52‐87 for developed
areas of the city.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.2. Require open stream corridors of adequate width to
protect all riparian vegetation, improve access, and prevent flooding caused by blockage
of streams.
Implementing Policy 7.2.1.B.3. Require revegetation of creek banks with species
characteristic of local riparian vegetation, where construction requires creekbank
alteration.
Guiding Policy 7.3.1.A.1. Maintain natural hydrologic systems.
Guiding Policy 7.3.1.A.2. Regulate grading and development on steep slopes.
Implementing Policy 7.3.1.B.1. Enforce the requirements of the Municipal Regional
Permit for stormwater issued by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control
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Board or any subsequent permit as well as Chapter 7 (Public Works) and Chapter 9
(Subdivisions) of the Dublin Municipal Code for maintenance of water quality and
protection of stream courses.
Implementing Policy 7.3.1.B.2. Review development proposals to insure site design that
minimizes soil erosion and volume and velocity of surface runoff.
Implementing Policy 7.3.1.B.3. Restrict development on slopes over 30 percent.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Section 9.3 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan contains policies related to storm drainage and
water quality. The following policies related to hydrology and water quality are applicable to
the proposed project:
Policy 9‐7: Require drainage facilities that will minimize any increased potential for
erosion or flooding.
Policy 9‐8: Require channel improvements consist of natural creek bottoms and side
slopes with natural vegetation where possible to meet Policy 9‐7 above. (See also Policy
7‐11.)
Policy 9‐9: Plan facilities and select management practices in the Eastern Dublin Specific
Plan area that protect and enhance water quality.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to the overdraft of
potential flooding, reduced groundwater recharge, and non‐point sources of pollution.
Mitigation measures were identified to reduce potential impacts to a less‐than‐significant level.
The following mitigation measures would apply to the proposed project:
MM 3.5/44.0 Require drainage facilities that will minimize any increased potential or
erosion or flooding.
MM 3.5/45.0 Require channel improvements consisting of natural creek bottoms and
side slopes with natural vegetation where possible to meet Policy 9.7 above.
MM 3.5/46.0 Storm Drainage Master Plan. Require a Master Drainage Plan be
prepared for each development application prior to development approval. The plan
shall include:
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Hydrologic studies of entire related upstream watersheds.
Phase approach and system modeling.
Documentation of existing conditions.
Design‐level analysis of the impacts of proposed development of the existing creek
channels and watershed areas.
Detailed analysis of effects of development on water quality of surface runoff.
Detailed drainage design plans for each phase of the proposed project.
Design features to minimize runoff flows within existing creeks/channels in order to
alleviate potential erosion impacts and maintain riparian vegetation.
MM 3.5/47.0 Flood Control. Require development in the Planning Area to provide
facilities to alleviate potential downstream flooding due to project development. These
facilities shall include:
Retention/detention facilities as appropriate to control peak runoff discharge rates.
Energy dissipators at discharge locations to prevent channel erosion, as per Zone 7
guidelines. Energy dissipators should be designed to minimize adverse effects on
biological resources and the visual environment; in particular, widespread use of rip‐
rap should be avoided.
MM 3.5/49.0 Plan facilities and select management practices in the Eastern Dublin
Specific Plan EIR area that protect and enhance water quality.
MM 3.5/50.0 Zone 7 supports ongoing groundwater recharge program from the
Central Basin.
MM 3.5/51.0 Develop community‐based programs to educate local residents and
businesses on methods to reduce non‐point sources of pollution. Coordinate such
programs with current Alameda County programs. Such programs include:
Increased availability of liquid recycling centers (i.e. oil, greases, etc.) to reduce
potential for dumping into storm drains.
Programs that educate the public that catch basins and storm drains flow to creeks,
to potable groundwater basins, and to the San Francisco Bay, including a potential
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program to paint labels at each catch basin and storm drain to alert people to these
facts.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Hydrology and water quality were addressed in the Initial Study for the SEIR. No potentially
significant hydrology or water quality impacts or additional mitigation measures beyond those
identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR were identified.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to hydrology and
water quality would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project with implementation of the
mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Violate water quality or waste discharge requirements or degrade surface or groundwater
quality
No New Impact. Construction activities associated with the proposed project would cause
disturbance of soil during excavation work, which could adversely impact water quality.
Contaminants from construction vehicles and equipment and sediment from soil erosion could
increase the pollutant load in runoff being transported to receiving waters during development.
Although surface runoff from the site would likely decrease with the proposed project (due to
proposed stormwater treatment measures), runoff from the proposed landscaped areas may
contain residual pesticides and nutrients (associated with landscaping) and sediment and trace
metals (associated with atmospheric deposition) during operation of the project.
Because the project would result in the disturbance of greater than 1 acre of soil, project
implementation is required to comply with the Construction General Permit, which requires
preparation of a SWPPP and implementation of BMPs to reduce the discharge of construction‐
related stormwater pollutants. A SWPPP must include a detailed description of controls to
reduce pollutants and outline maintenance and inspection procedures. Typical sediment and
erosion BMPs include protecting storm drain inlets, establishing and maintaining construction
exits and perimeter controls to avoid tracking sediment off‐site onto adjacent roadways. A
SWPPP also defines proper building material staging and storage areas, paint and concrete
washout areas, describes proper equipment/vehicle fueling and maintenance practices,
measures to control equipment/vehicle washing and allowable non‐stormwater discharges, and
includes a spill prevention and response plan. Compliance with the requirements of the
Construction General Permit would ensure that the proposed project would result in less‐than‐
significant impacts to water quality during construction.
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As the site is currently largely undeveloped, the proposed project would increase the total
amount of impervious surface on the project site. The increase in impervious surface could
result in increased stormwater runoff (both flow rate and volume) from the project site relative
to pre‐project conditions, which may result in hydromodification impacts (i.e., increased
potential for erosion of creek beds and banks, silt pollution generation, or other adverse
impacts on beneficial uses due to increased erosive force).
The proposed project would be considered a “regulated project” under the MRP. Provision C.3
of the MRP requires new development and redevelopment projects that would replace more
than 10,000 square feet of existing impervious surfaces to include post‐construction
stormwater control in project designs. Under the C.3 requirements, the preparation and
submittal of a Stormwater Control Plan (SCP) would be required for the project site. The
purpose of a SCP is to detail the design elements and implementation measures necessary to
meet the post‐construction stormwater control requirements of the MRP. In particular, SCPs
must include Low Impact Development (LID) design measures, which reduce water quality
impacts by preserving and recreating natural landscape features, minimizing imperviousness,
and using stormwater as a resource, rather than a waste product. The proposed project would
also be required to prepare a Stormwater Facility Operation and Maintenance Plan to ensure
that stormwater control measures are inspected, maintained, and funded for the life of the
project. Compliance with the C.3 requirements of the MRP would ensure that operation‐period
impacts to water quality would be less than significant.
Because the proposed project would be required to comply with applicable State and local
regulations, no new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts related to water
quality violations, wastewater discharges, or water quality degradation would occur. No
additional analysis is required.
(b) Substantially decrease or interfere with groundwater supplies
No New Impact. Although the proposed project would result in a net increase in impervious
surface coverage compared to the existing condition, the proposed project would include the
use of LID features that would retain and clean stormwater onsite before discharging it into the
municipal stormwater system, consistent with Provision C.3 of the MRP.
The proposed project would connect to the existing water lines within the vicinity of the project
site and would not require the use of groundwater. Due to the depth of groundwater and the
shallow excavations required for project construction, dewatering is not anticipated during
construction activities. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe significant
impacts related to groundwater supplies would occur. No additional analysis is required.
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(c) Substantially alter existing drainage patterns re: erosion/siltation, re: flooding, or degrade
water quality
No New Impact. The proposed project would not alter the course of a stream or river. Tassajara
Creek bisects the project site; however, proposed park improvements would be constructed
outside of the riparian zone of the creek in compliance with the conditions of the conservation
easements.
The proposed project would create new landscaped areas and impermeable pavement surfaces
which would alter the existing drainage pattern of the project site. However, as discussed
above, the proposed project would be required to comply with the C.3 requirements of the
MRP and other standard City development requirements related to stormwater.
Required compliance with applicable regulations and implementation of City policies, as
described above, would reduce potential impacts of the project related to changes in drainage
patterns to a less‐than‐significant level. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe
significant impacts related to drainage patterns would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(d) Flood hazard, seiche, or tsunami
No New Impact. As described above, the majority of the project site is not located within a
flood hazard area mapped by FEMA. The portions of the project site immediately adjacent to
Tassajara Creek lie within a 100‐year flood hazard area; however, no park improvements are
proposed within the flood zone. The riparian corridor associated with Tassajara Creek would be
preserved consistent with the conditions of the conservation easement.
The project site is not located within a mapped tsunami inundation area for Alameda County,
and no seismically induced seiche waves have ever been documented in the San Francisco Bay
area. Additionally, the proposed project would implement various design features to ensure
contaminants would be contained. Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe
significant impacts related to flood hazard, seiche or tsunami would occur. No additional
analysis is required.
(e) Water Quality
No New Impact. As noted above, the proposed project would implement various design
features to ensure the proposed project would have a less‐than‐significant impact related to
water quality. Additionally, the proposed project would not include the use of groundwater and
would not substantially increase the amount of impervious surfaces on the project site, and
therefore would not interfere with groundwater recharge in the vicinity of the project site.
Therefore, no new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts related to water
quality would occur. No additional analysis is required.
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Source(s)
Association of Bay Area Governments and Metropolitan Transportation Commission. 2013. Plan
Bay Area. July 18.
California, State of. 2019. California Official Tsunami Inundation Maps. Website:
www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/tsunami/maps (accessed June 27, 2021).
California Water Boards San Francisco Bay R2. 2021. The 303(d) List of Impaired Water Bodies
website:
www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/water_issues/programs/TMDLs/303dlist.html
(accessed June 27, 2021).
Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2021. FEMA Flood Map Service Center (map).
Website:
msc.fema.gov/portal/search?AddressQuery=6363%20Tassajara%20Road%2C%20Dublin
%2C%20CA#searchresultsanchor (accessed June 27, 2021).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Land Use and Planning
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
10. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project:
a. Physically divide an established community?
X
b. Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict
with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation
adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
X
Environmental Setting
The proposed project site consists of an approximately 9‐acre site within the Wallis Ranch
residential development, located in eastern Dublin. Surrounding land uses include residential
development to the north, undeveloped open space to the west and south, and Tassajara Road
and Quarry Lane School to the east.
As shown on Figure 4.1 in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, the project site is designated as
Neighborhood Park. The Neighborhood Park designation provides for development of parks
that serve the recreation needs of a specific neighborhood or cluster of residential units. These
parks are at least 5‐7 acres in size, are centrally located to the homes they serve, and have
frontage on a minimum of two streets. Park sites are generally level to accommodate active
recreation, in most instances, the Neighborhood Parks are located adjacent to an open space
corridor to facilitate safe pedestrian movement within the community.
Regulatory Framework
City of Dublin General Plan
The City of Dublin General Plan is a policy document guiding future development within the City
and is a comprehensive plan intended to guide growth and development. The Land Use
Element is considered the framework for the General Plan because it establishes development
and land use patterns that enhance the City’s character. Chapter 3 of the Land Use Element
outlines policies and programs to provide open space both within and apart from development
projects. The following goals and policies related to land use that are applicable to the
proposed project.
Guiding Policy 3.4.1.A.1. Expand park area throughout the Primary and Extended
Planning Areas to serve new development.
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Guiding Policy 3.4.1.A.3. Restrict structures on the hillsides that appear to project above
major ridgelines. The present undisturbed natural ridgelines as seen from the Primary
Planning Area and key travel corridors are an essential component of Dublin’s
appearance as a freestanding city ringed by open hills.
Implementing Policy 3.4.1.B.1. Acquire and improve parklands in conformance with the
standards and policies in the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Implementing Policy 3.4.1B.2. Continue to maintain and periodically update the
Citywide Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The Master Plan shall provide specific
standards for acquiring parkland to support growth planned in the Land Use Element.
Implementing Policy 3.4.1.B.3. The policies set forth below, as implemented through
the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and development approvals, constitute the action
program for preserving and providing open space for outdoor recreation.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.1. Provide active parks and facilities which are adequate to meet
citywide needs for open space, cultural, and sports facilities, as well as the local needs of
the Eastern Extended Planning Area.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.2. Establish a trail system with connections to planned regional
and sub‐regional systems, including north‐south corridors such as East Bay Regional
Park District’s trail along Tassajara Creek north to Mt. Diablo State Park.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.3. Using the natural stream corridors and major ridgelines,
establish a comprehensive, integrated trail network within the Planning Area that
permits safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle access within urban areas and
between urban areas and open space areas. Per the 2005 Fallon Village amendment, in
order to preserve biological resources, trails in Fallon Village will not be placed along
ridgelines and in stream corridors.
Implementing Policy 3.4.2.B.1. Require land dedication and improvements for the parks
designated in the General Plan for the Eastern Extended Planning Area and based on a
standard of 5 net acres per 1,000 residents. Collect in‐lieu park fees as required by City
policies.
Implementing Policy 3.4.2.B.2. Require land dedication and improvements for trails
along designated stream corridors.
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Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan designates a broad range of open space and park areas to
provide for a variety of passive and active recreation uses, including approximately 240 acres
designated for developed parkland. The following policies from the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
apply to the proposed project:
Policy 4‐29: Ensure that park development in eastern Dublin is consistent with the
standards and phasing recommended in the City of Dublin's Recreation and Parks
Master Plan, and provides a full range of recreational activities from intense active
sports to passive open space enjoyment.
Policy 4‐30: Ensure, as part of the approval process, that each new development
provides its fair share of planned open space, parklands, and trail corridors, as shown on
Figure 4.1.
Policy 4‐31: Establish a convenient, multi‐use, all‐weather network of trails, including
bike lanes, to link planning area parks, recreation facilities, schools, employment centers
and major open space areas to each other and to the surrounding community.
City of Dublin Zoning Ordinance
Title 8 of the City’s Municipal Code establishes the City of Dublin Zoning Ordinance, which sets
cohesive zoning rules for the City and designates land use types. The City’s Zoning Ordinance is
the primary implementation tool for the goals and policies contained in the Land Use Element.
For this reason, the Zoning Map must be consistent with the General Plan Land Use Map. The
City’s Land Use Map indicates the general location and extent of future development in the
City. The City’s Zoning Ordinance contains more specific information related to permitted land
uses, building intensities, and development standards.
The project site is designated as Planned Development (PD) Ordinance No. 11‐14 and PD
Ordinance No. 09‐15. The intent of the PD designation is to create a more desirable use of the
land, a more coherent and coordinated development, and a better physical environment than
would otherwise be possible under a single zoning district or combination of zoning districts. A
PD Zoning District is established by the adoption of an Ordinance reclassifying the property to
such district and adopting a Development Plan, which establishes regulations for the use,
development, improvement, and maintenance of the property within the PD district. The
project site is located within the Dublin Ranch West planned development for which Stage 1
and Stage 2 Development Plans have been approved by the City.
City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan establishes goals, standards, guiding
policies, and action programs to guide the City of Dublin in the acquisition, development and
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management (operations and maintenance) of Dublin’s park and recreation facilities through
the ultimate build‐out of the City in accordance with the General Plan. The Master Plan outlines
specific standards for developing, maintaining, and operating the City’s park and recreation
system.
The Master Plan designates Wallis Ranch Community Park as an “Active Community Park.” As
defined in the Master Plan, “Active Community Parks should offer a variety of recreational
opportunities that attract a wide range of local age groups and interests. Active Community
Parks should feature large open space areas, unique natural, historic, and/or cultural areas as
well as group picnic areas, bicycling and hiking trails, sports facilities, dog runs, community
facilities, and other unique features or facilities.”
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified less than significant impacts related to the substantial
alteration to existing land use, on‐site project land use conflicts, conversion of non‐urban lands,
potential conflicts with land uses to the south, east and north. A potentially significant impact
was identified related to potential conflicts with land uses to the west, which was determined
to be less than significant with implementation of Mitigation Measure 3.1/1.0, which requires
the City to coordinate with the Army regarding future development proposals in the vicinity of
the Army’s Camp Parks facility.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that supplemental impacts resulting from the Dublin
Ranch West project would be less than significant. Implementation of the Dublin Ranch West
project would convert the same extent of vacant land to urban uses as identified in the Eastern
Dublin EIR and would not represent an abrupt or significant on‐site land use change as
described in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to land use
would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project than were previously analyzed in the prior
environmental documents.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Physically divide an established community
No New Impact. The physical division of an established community typically refers to the
construction of a feature (such as an interstate highway or railroad tracks) or removal of a
means of access (such as a local road or bridge) that would impair mobility within an existing
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community, or between a community and outlying areas. For instance, the construction of an
interstate highway through an existing community may constrain travel from one side of the
community to another; similarly, such construction may also impair travel to areas outside of
the community.
The proposed project would result in the construction of a new neighborhood park within an
existing residential neighborhood. Access to the project site would be via an existing roadway.
The proposed project would not result in the realignment or closure of any existing roads.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the physical division of an established
community or adversely affect the continuity of land uses in the vicinity. This impact would not
result in new significant or substantially more severe significant impacts beyond those analyzed
in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Conflict with land use plan, policy, or regulation
No New Impact. The proposed project would involve the development of a new neighborhood
park within an existing residential neighborhood. The proposed project would develop a
currently vacant site with a mix of recreational facilities that would serve community needs and
provide opportunities for increased physical activity and social interaction. The proposed park
would be compatible with the mix and intensity of uses located within the vicinity of the site,
which generally consist of residential and public uses. Therefore, the proposed project would
not result in new significant or substantially more severe significant impacts related to
conformity with land use plans beyond those already analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2015. City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Dublin, City of. 2021. City of Dublin Municipal Code. May 18. Available online at:
www.codepublishing.com/CA/Dublin/ (accessed June 25, 2021)
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
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Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Mineral Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
11. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a. Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource
that would be of value to the region and the residents of
the state?
X
b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally‐important
mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general
plan, specific plan, or other land use plan?
X
Environmental Setting
Minerals are any naturally occurring chemical element or compound, or groups of elements and
compounds, formed from inorganic processes and organic substances including, but not limited
to, coal, peat and oil bearing rock, but excluding geothermal resources, natural gas and
petroleum. Rock, sand, gravel and earth are also considered minerals by the Department of
Conservation when extracted by surface mining operations.
Neither the State Geologist nor the California Department of Mines and Geology (CDMG) have
classified any areas in the City as containing mineral deposits that are either of Statewide
significance or the significance of which requires further evaluation. The project site has been
classified by the CDMG as being located in MRZ‐1, indicating that the project site is located in
an area where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present,
or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence.
Regulatory Framework
State Regulations
Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1974
The California Department of Conservation, Geological Survey (CGS) and the California State
Mining and Geology Board are required by the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1974
(SMARA) to categorize lands into four Aggregate and Mineral Resource Zones (MRZs), described
below. These MRZs classify lands that contain significant regional or Statewide mineral
deposits. Lead Agencies are mandated by the State to incorporate MRZs into their General
Plans.
MRZs are classified on the basis of geologic factors without regard to existing land use and land
ownership. The four MRZs are categorized as follows:
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MRZ‐1: An area where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits
are present, or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence.
MRZ‐2: An area where adequate information indicates that significant mineral deposits are
present, or where it is judged that a high likelihood exists for their presence.
MRZ‐3: An area containing mineral deposits, the significance of which cannot be evaluated.
MRZ‐4: An area where available information is inadequate for assignment to any other MRZ
zone.
Of the four categories, lands classified as MRZ‐2 are of the greatest importance because such
areas are underlain by demonstrated mineral resources or are located where geologic data
indicate that significant measured or indicated resources are present. MRZ‐2 areas are
designated by the State Mining and Geology Board as being “regionally significant.” Such
designations require that a Lead Agency make land use decisions involving designated areas in
accordance with its mineral resource management policies and that it consider the importance
of the mineral resource to the region or the State as a whole, not just to the Lead Agency’s
jurisdiction.
Previous CEQA Documents
None of the prior environmental documents indicate that significant mineral resource deposits
exist on the project site. Therefore, no impacts related to mineral resources were identified.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a‐b) Loss of known or identified mineral resource
No New Impact. The project site is not located in a designated mineral resource area.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the loss of available of a known mineral
resources that would be of value of the region and residents of the state or the loss of
availability of any known locally important mineral resource recovery site. Therefore, no new or
substantially more severe significant impacts related to mineral resources would occur. No
additional analyses is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
State of California. Division of Mines and Geology. Generalized Mineral Land Classification Map
of the South San Francisco Bay Production—Consumption Region. Published 1996.
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Noise
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
12. NOISE. Would the project result in:
a. Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent
increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project
in excess of standards established in the local general plan
or noise ordinance or applicable standards of other
agencies?
X
b. Generation of excessive ground borne vibration or ground
borne noise levels?
X
c. For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip
or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not
been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public
use airport, would the project expose people residing or
working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
X
Environmental Setting
Noise Background
Noise is usually defined as unwanted sound. Noise consists of any sound that may produce
physiological or psychological damage and/or interfere with communication, work, rest,
recreation, or sleep. Several noise measurement scales exist that are used to describe noise in a
particular location. A decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement that indicates the relative intensity
of a sound. Sound levels in dB are calculated on a logarithmic basis. An increase of 10 dB
represents a 10‐fold increase in acoustic energy, while 20 dB is 100 times more intense and 30
dB is 1,000 times more intense. Each 10 dB increase in sound level is perceived as
approximately a doubling of loudness; and similarly, each 10 dB decrease in sound level is
perceived as half as loud. Sound intensity is normally measured through the A‐weighted sound
level (dBA). This scale gives greater weight to the frequencies of sound to which the human ear
is most sensitive. The A‐weighted sound level is the basis for 24‐hour sound measurements that
better represent human sensitivity to sound at night.
As noise spreads from a source, it loses energy so that the farther away the noise receiver is
from the noise source, the lower the perceived noise level would be. Geometric spreading
causes the sound level to attenuate or be reduced, resulting in a 6 dB reduction in the noise
level for each doubling of distance from a single point source of noise to the noise sensitive
receptor of concern.
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Vibration Background
Vibration refers to ground‐borne noise and perceptible motion. Ground‐borne vibration is
almost exclusively a concern inside buildings and is rarely perceived as a problem where the
motion may be discernible, but there is less adverse reaction without the effects associated
with the shaking of a building. Vibration energy propagates from a source through intervening
soil and rock layers to the foundations of nearby buildings. The vibration then propagates from
the foundation throughout the remainder of the structure. Building vibration may be perceived
by occupants as motion of building surfaces, the rattling of items on shelves or hanging on
walls, or a low‐frequency rumbling noise, otherwise referred to as ground‐borne noise.
Typically, sources that have the potential to generate ground‐borne noise are likely to produce
airborne noise impacts that mask the radiated ground‐borne noise. The rumbling noise is
caused by the vibrating walls, floors, and ceilings radiating sound waves. Annoyance from
vibration often occurs when the vibration exceeds the threshold of perception by 10 dB or less.
This is an order of magnitude below the damage threshold for normal buildings.
Typical sources of ground‐borne vibration are construction activities (e.g., blasting, pile driving,
and operating heavy‐duty earthmoving equipment) and occasional traffic on rough roads.
Problems with ground‐borne vibration and noise from these sources are usually localized to
areas within approximately 100 feet of the vibration source, although there are examples of
ground‐borne vibration causing interference out to distances greater than 200 feet. When
roadways are smooth, vibration from traffic, even heavy trucks, is rarely perceptible. For most
projects, it is assumed that the roadway surface will be smooth enough that ground‐borne
vibration from street traffic will not exceed the impact criteria; however, construction of the
project could result in ground‐borne vibration that could be perceptible and annoying.
Existing Noise Levels
Major sources of noise on and adjacent to the project site include noise generated by vehicles
on Tassajara Road, Wallis Ranch Road, and Rutherford Drive, and from aircraft flyovers,
primarily from helicopters at the Parks Reserve Forces Training Area (RFTA or “Camp Parks”)
and distant noise from other operations at Camp Parks.
Surrounding Noise Sensitive Land Uses
Certain land uses are considered more sensitive to noise than others. Examples of these include
residential areas, educational facilities, hospitals, childcare facilities, and senior housing. The
nearest noise sensitive uses are the single‐family residential buildings approximately 90 feet
north of the project site, single‐family residential buildings approximately 100 feet to the east
across Tassajara Road and Quarry Lane School approximately 150 feet to the east of the project
site across Tassajara Road.
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Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
Federal Transit Administration
The criteria for environmental impacts resulting from ground‐borne vibration are based on the
maximum levels for a single event. The guidelines within the FTA Manual have been used to
determine vibration impacts (refer to Table A, below).
Table A: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria
Building Category PPV (in/sec)
Reinforced concrete, steel, or timber (no
plaster)
0.50
Engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster) 0.30
Non‐engineered timber and masonry buildings 0.20
Buildings extremely susceptible to vibration
damage
0.12
Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018), Table 12‐3.
FTA = Federal Transit Administration
in/sec = inches per second
PPV = peak particle velocity
The FTA Manual guidelines show that a vibration level of up to 0.2 in/sec PPV is considered safe
for non‐engineered timber and masonry buildings, and would not result in any construction
vibration damage. Therefore, in order to be conservative, the 0.2 in/sec PPV threshold has been
used when evaluating vibration impacts at the nearest structures to the site.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
The Noise Element of the City of Dublin General Plan establishes residential, commercial, and
industrial land use compatibility standards for noise measured at the property line of the
receiving land use. The land use compatibility noise criteria, as shown in Table B, provide the
basis for decisions on location of land uses in relation to noise sources and for determining
noise mitigation requirements.
The Noise Element of the Dublin General Plan identifies "normally acceptable" noise levels for
all schools, churches and nursing home uses as 60 dBA CNEL or less. Noise levels from 61‐70
CNEL are considered “conditionally acceptable”, while noise levels between 71‐80 CNEL are
considered “normally unacceptable.” Noise levels over 80 dBA CNEL are considered clearly
unacceptable for new development of these types of land uses.
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Table A: City of Dublin Land Use/Noise Compatibility Standards (dBA CNEL)
Land Use Category Normally
Acceptable
Conditionally
Acceptable1
Normally
Unacceptable
Clearly
Unacceptable
Residential 60 or less 61‐70 71‐75 Over 75
Motels, hotels 60 or less 61‐70 71‐80 Over 80
Schools, churches, nursing homes 60 or less 61‐70 71‐80 Over 80
Neighborhood parks 60 or less 61‐65 66‐70 Over 70
Offices: retail commercial 70 or less 71‐75 76‐80 Over 80
Industrial 70 or less 71‐75 Over 75 ‐
Source: Dublin General Plan Noise Element, Table 9‐1, 2012
CNEL = Community Noise Equivalent Level
1 Conditionally acceptable exposure requires noise insulation features in building design. Conventional construction, but with closed
windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning will normally suffice.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
As described in Section 6.4.2 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, the primary source of noise in
eastern Dublin is traffic along I‐580. The 60 dB contour for noise levels, which is considered the
maximum normally acceptable level of residential uses and other sensitive uses extends
approximately 2,000 feet north of the freeway. As specified in Policy 6‐44, development along
the I‐580 frontage will be required to provide adequate mitigation to conform to the State Land
Use Compatibility Standards for noise and policies and standards in the City of Dublin's Noise
Element.
City of Dublin Municipal Code
The City of Dublin Municipal Code (Section 5.28.020) prohibits any person within the City from
making any loud, or disturbing, or unnecessary, or unusual or habitual noise or any noise which
annoys or disturbs or injures or endangers the health, repose, peace, or safety of any
reasonable person of normal sensitivity present in the area.
Section 8.36.060(C)(3) states that for lots 5,000 square feet or larger, mechanical equipment
that generates noise when located within a required setback as allowed by this subsection, and
within 10 feet of an existing or potential residence, or an existing paved patio area on adjoining
property, shall be enclosed as necessary to reduce noise at the property line to a maximum of
50 dBA at any time.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potential significant impacts related to exposure of proposed
housing to future roadway noise, exposure of existing residences to future roadway noise,
exposure of proposed residential development to noise from future military training activities
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at Camp Parks, exposure of existing and proposed residences to construction noise, and noise
conflicts due to the adjacency of diverse land uses permitted by Plan policies supporting mixed‐
use development. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce most of these potential
impacts to a less‐than‐significant level. Noise impacts associated with activities at Camp Parks
and exposure of existing residences to future roadway noise were determined to be significant
and unavoidable, even with implementation of mitigation. The impacts associated with
exposure of existing and proposed development to airport noise was determined to be less
than significant due to the distance of the project area from Livermore Municipal Airport.
The following mitigation measures would apply to the proposed project:
MM 3.10/4.0 Developers shall submit to the City a Construction Noise Management
Program that identified measures to be taken to minimize impacts on existing planning
area residents. The program will include a schedule for grading and other major noise‐
generating activities that will limit these activities to the shortest possible number of
days. Hours of construction activities shall be limited in keeping with Dublin ordinances.
The Program for construction vehicle access to the site shall minimize construction truck
traffic through residential areas. If construction traffic must travel through residential
areas, then a mitigation plan should be developed. The Program may include barriers,
berms, or restrictions on hours.
MM 3.10/5.0 In order to minimize the impact of construction noise, all operations
should comply with local noise standards relating to construction activities. When
construction occurs near residential areas, then it should be limited to normal daytime
hours to minimize the impact. Stationary equipment should be adequately muffled and
located as far away from sensitive receptors as possible.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Noise was addressed in the Initial Study for the Dublin Ranch West SEIR. No new or more
severe impacts beyond those identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR were identified with
implementation of the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to noise would
result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project. The 2014 Addendum acknowledged that the
Wallis Ranch/Trumark project would contribute to cumulative noise conditions, including
exposure of existing residences to roadway noise, which was determined to be significant and
unavoidable.
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Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Generate noise exceeding standards
No new Impact. The following section addresses the short‐term construction and long‐term
operational noise impacts of the proposed project.
Short‐Term (Construction) Noise Impacts. Project construction would result in short‐term
noise impacts. Maximum construction noise would be short‐term, generally intermittent
depending on the construction phase, and variable depending on receiver distance from the
active construction zone. The duration of noise impacts generally would be from one day to
several days depending on the phase of construction. The level and types of noise impacts that
would occur during construction are described below.
Short‐term noise impacts would occur during grading and site preparation activities. Table C
lists typical construction equipment noise levels (Lmax) recommended for noise impact
assessments, based on a distance of 50 feet between the equipment and a noise receptor,
obtained from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Roadway Construction Noise
Model. Construction‐related short‐term noise levels would be higher than existing ambient
noise levels currently in the project area but would no longer occur once construction of the
project is completed.
Two types of short‐term noise impacts could occur during construction of the proposed project.
The first type involves construction crew commutes and the transport of construction
equipment and materials to the site, which would incrementally increase noise levels on roads
leading to the site. As shown in Table C, there would be a relatively high single‐event noise
exposure potential at a maximum level of 84 dBA Lmax with trucks passing at 50 feet.
The second type of short‐term noise impact is related to noise generated during grading and
construction on the project site. Construction is performed in discrete steps, or phases, each
with its own mix of equipment and, consequently, its own noise characteristics. These various
sequential phases would change the character of the noise generated on site. Therefore, the
noise levels vary as construction progresses. Despite the variety in the type and size of
construction equipment, similarities in the dominant noise sources and patterns of operation
allow construction‐related noise ranges to be categorized by work phase.
Table C lists maximum noise levels recommended for noise impact assessments for typical
construction equipment, based on a distance of 50 feet between the equipment and a noise
receptor.
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Table C: Typical Maximum Construction Equipment Noise Levels (Lmax)
Type of Equipment Acoustical
Usage Factor
Suggested Maximum Sound Levels
for Analysis (dBA Lmax at 50 ft)
Air Compressor 40 80
Backhoe 40 80
Crane 16 85
Excavator 40 85
Forklift 20 85
Generator 50 80
Grader 40 85
Loader 40 80
Paver 50 85
Roller 20 85
Scraper 40 85
Skid Steer Loader 40 80
Tractor 40 84
Trencher 50 82
Water Truck 40 84
Source: Highway Construction Noise Handbook (FHWA 2006).
dBA = A‐weighted decibel
FHWA = Federal Highway Administration
ft = foot/feet
HP = horsepower
Lmax = maximum noise level
Typical maximum noise levels range up to 87 dBA Lmax at 50 feet during the noisiest
construction phases. The site preparation phase, including excavation and grading of the site,
tends to generate the highest noise levels because earthmoving machinery is the noisiest
construction equipment. Earthmoving equipment includes excavating machinery such as
backfillers, bulldozers, draglines, and front loaders. Earthmoving and compacting equipment
includes compactors, scrapers, and graders. Typical operating cycles for these types of
construction equipment may involve 1 or 2 minutes of full‐power operation followed by 3 or 4
minutes at lower power settings.
To provide a conservative estimate, the noise levels were calculated from the edge of the
project site, whereas the construction activities would cover the entire site and often be further
from sensitive receptors. Based on the typical construction equipment noise levels shown in
Table C, noise levels associated with these pieces of construction equipment operating
simultaneously would be approximately 88 dBA Leq at 50 feet.
The closest sensitive receptors include residential uses located approximately 95 feet from the
project site. At 95 feet, there would be a decrease of approximately 6 dBA, resulting in short‐
term construction noise levels associated approaching 82 dBA Leq which would exceed the City’s
noise standards. While construction‐related short‐term noise levels have the potential to be
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higher than existing ambient noise levels in the project area, the noise impacts would no longer
occur once project construction is completed. The proposed project would be required to
comply with MM 3.10/4.0 and MM 3.10/5.0 identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR, which require
preparation and implementation of a construction noise management plan, proper muffling of
construction equipment and limiting construction hours. In addition, the proposed project
would be required to comply with the City of Dublin Noise Ordinance (Section 5.28 of the City’s
Municipal Code). With adherence to the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin
EIR and compliance with City standards for construction, there would be no new or
substantially more severe significant impacts to short‐term noise impacts beyond what has
been analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
Operational Noise Impacts. A characteristic of sound is that a doubling of a noise source is
required in order to result in a perceptible (3 dBA or greater) increase in the resulting noise
level. The proposed project would improve the existing site as a neighborhood park. Outdoor
activity typically generates maximum noise levels of 70 dBA Lmax at 50 feet. Once operational,
the project would not generate a significant number of new vehicle trips and therefore would
not result in a doubling of traffic volumes along any roadway segment in the project vicinity and
would not result in a perceptible increase in traffic noise levels at receptors in the project
vicinity. Operation of the proposed project would not result in exposure of persons to or
generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance, since the project is not expected to generate substantial vehicular traffic or other
operational noise. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in exposure of persons to
or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance. No new impacts or substantially more severe significant impacts would occur. No
additional analysis is required.
(b) Generate excessive ground borne vibration or ground borne noise
No New Impact. Common sources of ground borne vibration and noise include trains and
construction activities such as blasting, pile driving, and operating heavy earthmoving
equipment. Construction of the proposed project would involve site preparation, and
construction activities but would not involve the use of construction equipment that would
result in substantial ground borne vibration or ground borne noise on properties adjacent to
the project site. No pile driving, blasting, or significant grading activities are proposed.
Furthermore, operation of the proposed project would not generate substantial ground borne
noise and vibration. Therefore, the project would not result in the exposure of persons to or
generation of excessive ground borne noise and vibration. No new impacts or substantially
more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
(c) Excessive noise level near a public or private airport
No New Impact. The project site is not located within an airport land use plan, or within 2 miles
of a public airport, public use airport, or private airport. The closest airports to the project site
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are the Livermore Municipal Airport, located approximately 3.6 miles southeast of the project
site and the Hayward Executive Airport, located approximately 20 miles west. The proposed
project would include development of a community park. Proposed improvements would be
largely at‐grade. As noted in the Eastern Dublin EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, the project
site could be subject to overflight noise from Camp Parks; however, the proposed project would
not result in residential development, this impact would not be substantially more severe than
previously analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No new impacts or substantially
more severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Dublin, City of. 2021. City of Dublin Municipal Code. May 18. Available online at:
www.codepublishing.com/CA/Dublin/ (accessed June 25, 2021)
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Population and Housing
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
13. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the project:
a. Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area,
either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and
businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of
roads or other infrastructure)?
X
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
X
Environmental Setting
According to the City of Dublin General Plan, in 2010, Dublin’s total population was estimated
at 46,036 and represented 17 percent of the 269,437 residents in the Tri‐Valley area. In 2019,
The United States Census Bureau estimated that the City of Dublin had approximately 64,826
people and 20,235 households. The project site consists of approximately 9 acres of
undeveloped land. No residential units currently exist at the project site.
Regulatory Framework
Association of Bay Area Governments Projections 2040
ABAG is the regional planning agency for the San Francisco Bay Area. ABAG Projections 2040
(2018) is a growth forecast, which informs agencies such as MTC and BAAQMD for the purpose
of project funding and regulatory decisions. The data for the projections were prepared in
connection with Plan Bay Area 2040, adopted by ABAG and MTC in the summer of 2017. Data
for this forecast are provided from collective regional General Plans, zoning codes, and growth
management programs. This growth forecast is produced every four years with the Projections
2040 report being the most recent projection. These periodic updates include developing
impacts of “smart growth” policies and incentives to improve future development trends in the
region, such as a more balanced ratio of the number of jobs to houses.
Plan Bay Area 2040
Plan Bay Area 2040 is the Bay Area’s Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable
Communities Strategy as mandated by Senate Bill 375, the Sustainable Communities and
Climate Protection Act. Plan Bay Area 2040 is a limited and focused update to the 2013 Plan Bay
Area and includes key economic, demographic, and financial trends from the last several years.
Plan Bay Area 2040 was adopted by ABAG and the MTC in 2017. Plan Bay Area aims to
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concentrate new population and employment growth in the region to areas with pre‐existing
transportation infrastructure to ensure greenhouse gas reductions are met.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
Section 3.2 in the Eastern Dublin EIR provides the demographics, housing and employment
context for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. No impacts related to population or displacement
of existing housing were identified. Growth‐inducing impacts associated with implementation
of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan were evaluated in Section 5.2 of the Eastern Dublin EIR.
Growth‐inducing impacts were identified for utilities and community services.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that supplemental impacts resulting from the Dublin
Ranch West project would be less than significant. Implementation of the Dublin Ranch West
project would add approximately 428 residents, which would account for a 1 percent increase
in the population anticipated for the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area. This increase was
determined to be less than significant. The Dublin Ranch West project proposed minor changes
to the planned uses within the planning area; therefore, no supplemental impacts with regard
to growth inducement was identified.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to population
and housing would result from the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project since development of the
affected properties would be consistent with that envisioned in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
and the City of Dublin General Plan and the Wallis Ranch/Trumark project would result in fewer
dwelling units than were previously analyzed in the prior environmental documents.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Population growth
No New Impact. The proposed project would improve the project site as a neighborhood park.
No new housing, commercial or industrial space would be developed as part of the proposed
project. The proposed project would not result in the conversion of adjacent land uses, or
provide access to previously inaccessible areas. It would not provide additional major
infrastructure or increase the capacity of the existing water system. Therefore, the proposed
project would not result in new significant or substantially more severe significant population
growth than was analyzed and described in the prior environmental documents. No additional
analysis is required.
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(b) Housing and resident displacement
No New Impact. The proposed project would not displace substantial numbers of existing
housing or people, such that replacement housing would need to be constructed elsewhere, as
the site is currently vacant. This potential impact would be considered less than significant.
Therefore, the proposed project would not result in new significant or substantially more
severe significant housing impacts than were analyzed in the prior environmental documents.
No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Association of Bay Area Governments and Metropolitan Transportation Commission. 2018. Plan
Bay Area Projections 2040 ‐ A Companion to Plan Bay Area 2040. November. Available
online at: http://mtcmedia.s3.amazonaws.com/files/Projections_2040‐ABAG‐MTC‐
web.pdf (accessed June 25, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
United States Census Bureau. QuickFacts. Dublin city, CA. Website:
www.census.gov/quickfacts/dublincitycalifornia (accessed June 25, 2021).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Public Services
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
14. PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities or need for new or physical altered
governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in
order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for any of
the public services:
a. Fire protection?
X
b. Police protection?
X
c. Schools?
X
d. Parks?
X
e. Other public facilities?
X
Environmental Setting
The proposed project is located within the City of Dublin and is served by the following existing
public services.
Fire Protection. Fire suppression, emergency medical and rescue services, and other life safety
services are provided to the project area and site by the Alameda County Fire Department
(ACFD). There are three fire stations in Dublin, with the closest to the project site being Fire
Station No. 18 at 4800 Fallon Rd, approximately 1.25 miles southeast.
Police Protection. The Alameda County Sherriff’s Office provides contracted police protection
to the project area and project site. The Dublin Police Services headquarters are located at 6361
Clark Avenue, southwest of the project site.
Schools. The project site is served by the Dublin Unified School District, which operates seven
elementary, two middle, one K‐8 and three high schools within the City of Dublin.
Parks. The City’s Public Works Department oversees the maintenance of parks and recreational
facilities throughout the City.
Library Services. The Dublin Library is operated by Alameda County Library, with additional
funding from the City of Dublin. The Dublin Public Library is located at 200 Civic Plaza,
southwest of the project site.
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Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
California Fire Code
The California Fire Code exists within Part 9 of the CBC, and includes measures for emergency
planning preparation and safety. Examples of fire safety requirements include: installation of
sprinklers in all high‐rise buildings; the establishment of fire resistance standards for fire doors,
building materials, and particular types of construction; and the clearance of debris and
vegetation within a prescribed distance from occupied structures in wildlife hazard areas.
California Government Code Sections 65995 to 65998 (School Facilities)
California Government Code Section 65996 exists to offset the impacts of certain types of
development on school facilities by requiring payment of fees to the associated school district
prior to receiving a building permit. The school district is therefore responsible for
implementing specific methods for mitigating school impacts under the Government Code.
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65995, payment of school impact fees is
considered to be full mitigation for reducing impacts on school facilities that would result from
implementation of a project.
Local Regulations
City of Dublin General Plan
Chapter 3 of the Land Use Element outlines policies and programs to provide open space both
within and apart from development projects, which relate to the provision of park facilities in
the City. Those policies are listed in Section 10, Land Use.
Section 8.3.2 of the City of Dublin outlines the following policies and programs related to fire
hazards and fire protection:
Guiding Policy 8.3.2.1.A.1. Require special precautions against fire as a condition of
development approval in the western hills and elsewhere in the Extended planning
Areas where proposed development would interface with open space.
Implementing Policy 8.3.2.1.B.1. Continue to enforce the City’s wild land urban
interface regulations.
Section 4.2 of the City of Dublin outlines policies and programs related to public schools. As the
proposed project would develop a community park to serve the existing neighborhood. Policies
related to schools would not apply to the proposed project.
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Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Chapter 8.0 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines goals, policies and programs to ensure
the provision of adequate public services and community facilities in Eastern Dublin. The
following policies from the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan related to police and fire services are
applicable to the proposed project:
Policy 8‐5: Time the construction of new facilities to coincide with new service demand
in order to avoid periods of reduced service efficiency. The first station will be sited and
construction completed prior to completion of initial development in the planning area.
Policy 8‐4: Provide additional personnel and facilities and revise "beats" as needed in
order to establish and maintain City standards for police protection service in eastern
Dublin.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potential significant impacts related to increased demand for
police and fire protection services, fire response to outlying areas, exposure to wildlands
hazards, increased demand for schools and school overcrowding, increased demand for parks
and impacts on existing park and trail facilities. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce
potential impacts to a less‐than‐significant level.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
Public services were addressed in the Initial Study for the Dublin Ranch West SEIR. No new or
more severe impacts beyond those identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR were identified with
implementation of the mitigation measures identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to public services
would result from the Wallis Ranch project since the project would be required to adhere to
previously adopted mitigation measures, including payment of public facility impact fees, and
compliance with ACFD and Police Department requirements.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Fire, police, schools, parks and other public facilities
No New Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would improve the site as a
neighborhood park to serve the adjacent residential neighborhood. Use of the site could
increase as a result of proposed improvements. However, visitors to the site are anticipated to
come primarily from the local neighborhood, those people who generally reside within walking
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distance of the project site. Because proposed improvements would be for recreation, and
would not include housing units or other structures, the incremental increase in demand for
public services would not be significant and would not exceed the physical and financial
capabilities of the ACFD or the Alameda County Sherriff’s Office, resulting in the need for new
or expanded police protection services. Implementation of the proposed project would not
result in any local or regional population increase. Therefore, the project would not require
construction of new schools, result in schools exceeding their capacities, or result in substantial
adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of other public facilities. Therefore, the
proposed project would not result in new significant or substantially more severe significant
impacts related to public services than were analyzed and described in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Recreation
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No New
Impact
15. RECREATION. Would the project:
a. Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional
parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial
physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be
accelerated?
X
b. Include recreational facilities or require the construction
or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment?
X
Environmental Setting
The City of Dublin has a variety of outdoor recreational sites including neighborhood parks,
community parks, community facilities, open space areas and a series of trail networks.
According to the City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the City of Dublin currently
has 18 parks, 5 deeded park sites, and 6 school parks and City‐owned open space areas that
account for nearly 233 acres of dedicated open space and developed park land. In addition, the
City has over 59 acres of undeveloped parkland that has either been offered for dedication by
landowners or acquired by the City. In addition, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD)
operates the Dublin Hills Regional Park, a large open space park with regional trail connections.
The Iron Horse Trail runs along the Union Pacific/Southern Pacific Railroad right‐of‐way,
connecting Dublin, the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station and the City of Pleasanton.
Regulatory Framework
City of Dublin General Plan
Chapter 3 of the Land Use Element outlines policies and programs to provide open space both
within and apart from development projects. The following goals and policies related to parks
and recreation that are applicable to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 3.4.1.A.1. Expand park area throughout the Primary and Extended
Planning Areas to serve new development.
Guiding Policy 3.4.1.A.3. Restrict structures on the hillsides that appear to project above
major ridgelines. The present undisturbed natural ridgelines as seen from the Primary
Planning Area and key travel corridors are an essential component of Dublin’s
appearance as a freestanding city ringed by open hills.
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Implementing Policy 3.4.1.B.1. Acquire and improve parklands in conformance with the
standards and policies in the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Implementing Policy 3.4.1B.2. Continue to maintain and periodically update the
Citywide Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The Master Plan shall provide specific
standards for acquiring parkland to support growth planned in the Land Use Element.
Implementing Policy 3.4.1.B.3. The policies set forth below, as implemented through
the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and development approvals, constitute the action
program for preserving and providing open space for outdoor recreation.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.1. Provide active parks and facilities which are adequate to meet
citywide needs for open space, cultural, and sports facilities, as well as the local needs of
the Eastern Extended Planning Area.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.2. Establish a trail system with connections to planned regional
and sub‐regional systems, including north‐south corridors such as East Bay Regional
Park District’s trail along Tassajara Creek north to Mt. Diablo State Park.
Guiding Policy 3.4.2.A.3. Using the natural stream corridors and major ridgelines,
establish a comprehensive, integrated trail network within the Planning Area that
permits safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle access within urban areas and
between urban areas and open space areas. Per the 2005 Fallon Village amendment, in
order to preserve biological resources, trails in Fallon Village will not be placed along
ridgelines and in stream corridors.
Implementing Policy 3.4.2.B.1. Require land dedication and improvements for the parks
designated in the General Plan for the Eastern Extended Planning Area and based on a
standard of 5 net acres per 1,000 residents. Collect in‐lieu park fees as required by City
policies.
Implementing Policy 3.4.2.B.2. Require land dedication and improvements for trails
along designated stream corridors.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan designates a broad range of open space and park areas to
provide for a variety of passive and active recreation uses, including approximately 240 acres
designated for developed parkland. The following policies from the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
are applicable to the proposed project:
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Policy 4‐29: Ensure that park development in eastern Dublin is consistent with the
standards and phasing recommended in the City of Dublin's Recreation and Parks
Master Plan, and provides a full range of recreational activities from intense active
sports to passive open space enjoyment.
Policy 4‐30: Ensure, as part of the approval process, that each new development
provides its fair share of planned open space, parklands, and trail corridors, as shown on
Figure 4.1.
Policy 4‐31: Establish a convenient, multi‐use, all‐weather network of trails, including
bike lanes, to link planning area parks, recreation facilities, schools, employment centers
and major open space areas to each other and to the surrounding community.
City of Dublin Municipal Code
Chapter 9.28 of the City’s Municipal Code requires the dedication of lands or payment of in‐lieu
fees (or a combination of both) for neighborhood and community park or recreational purposes
as a condition of approval for a residential subdivision. The City requires the dedication of 5‐
acres of park land for every 1,000 persons residing within the City. The amount of land to be
dedicated, or fees to be paid, relates to the use of the park and recreation facilities by the
future inhabitants of the subdivision, as calculated using the metrics established in Chapter
9.28.
City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan establishes goals, standards, guiding
policies, and action programs to guide the City of Dublin in the acquisition, development and
management (operations and maintenance) of Dublin’s park and recreation facilities through
the ultimate build‐out of the City in accordance with the General Plan. The Master Plan outlines
specific standards for developing, maintaining, and operating the City’s park and recreation
system.
The Master Plan designates Wallis Ranch Community Park as an “Active Community Park.” As
defined in the Master Plan, “Active Community Parks should offer a variety of recreational
opportunities that attract a wide range of local age groups and interests. Active Community
Parks should feature large open space areas, unique natural, historic, and/ or cultural areas as
well as group picnic areas, bicycling and hiking trails, sports facilities, dog runs, community
facilities, and other unique features or facilities.”
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Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to increased demand
for park facilities, fiscal impacts associated with the provision of new park and recreation
facilities, and impacts on the regional trail system and open space connections. Mitigation
measures were identified to reduce potential impacts to a less than significant level.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR identified a potentially significant supplemental impact associated
with the inadequacy of local neighborhood park acreage within the proposed development,
which would be inconsistent with the provisions in the City of Dublin Park and Recreation
Master Plan. Supplemental Mitigation Measure PARK‐1was identified to reduce this impact to a
less than significant level;
Supplemental Mitigation Measure PARK‐1: Prior to tentative map or Stage 2
Development Plan approval, whichever occurs first, the Project developer shall either
a) Revise the land use program for the Dublin Ranch West site to provide an
additional 1.04 net acres of Neighborhood Park land use designation; or
b) Provide 1.9 net acres of Neighborhood Park land use designation in close
proximity to the project site.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to recreation
would result from the Wallis Ranch project since the project would dedicate a public park site
and provide one private park consistent with Supplemental Mitigation Measure PARK‐1
identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Increase the use of existing recreation facilities causing deterioration
No New Impact. The proposed project would develop the existing site as a community park,
consistent with the City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan and in compliance with the
requirements for provision of park land outlined in the City’s Municipal Code. In accordance
with Supplemental Mitigation Measure PARK‐1, identified in the Dublin Ranch West SEIR,
requires the provision of an additional 1.04‐acre of Neighborhood Park area within the Dublin
Ranch West site in order to compensate for the elimination of planned parkland designated in
the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan and to bring the project into compliance with City park
standards. Implementation of the proposed project as a community park would meet the intent
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of the mitigation requirement to provide adequate park facilities to serve the proposed
development.
The proposed project would serve existing demand from residents of the City and the adjacent
residential neighborhood. The proposed project would have a beneficial impact to existing
recreational facilities, as use at other existing neighborhood and regional parks or other
recreational facilities may be reduced. Therefore, no new significant or substantially more
severe significant impacts related to existing recreation facilities would result from the
proposed project. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Propose, require new facilities that cause physical effect
No New Impact. Refer to Section 15.a. The proposed project would improve the project site for
use as a community park, consistent with the City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan
and in compliance with the requirements for provision of park land outlined in the City’s
Municipal Code. The intent of the planning process was to minimize adverse physical effects on
the environment. Potential adverse effects on the environment related to the development of
the proposed project have been evaluated in this Initial Study checklist. No new significant or
substantially more severe significant impacts related to new recreation facilities would result
from the proposed project. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Dublin, City of. 2015. City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Dublin, City of. 2021. City of Dublin Municipal Code. May 18. Available online at:
www.codepublishing.com/CA/Dublin/ (accessed June 25, 2021)
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Transportation
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
16. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC. Would the project:
a. Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy
addressing the circulation system, including transit,
roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
X
b. Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
X
c. Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design
feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
X
d. Result in inadequate emergency access?
X
Environmental Setting
Access to the proposed project site is provide by Tassajara Road, Wallis Ranch Road, and
Rutherford Drive. Tassajara Road is an arterial road that provides access from southern Contra
Costa County to I‐580 and further south into Alameda County. It is four lanes wide from I‐580 to
Dublin Ranch Road. Wallis Ranch Road and Rutherford Drive are local residential roads that
provide access from Tassajara Road to the existing residential development. Both of these
roadways provide on‐street parking and one travel lane in each direction. The two intersections
from Tassajara Road in the vicinity of the project site are signalized.
Sidewalks and Class II bike lanes are provided along Tassajara Road adjacent to the project site.
Sidewalks are also provide along the both Wallis Ranch Road and Rutherford Drive, providing
pedestrian connections to the various park improvements.
Transit service to the project site is provided by the Livermore/Amador Valley Transit Authority
(LAVTA), which provides bus service in Dublin and throughout the Tri‐Valley area. LAVTA Route
2 provides hourly service during peak times on weekdays to the following locations: East
Dublin/Pleasanton BART, Hacienda Crossings, Dublin Ranch, Silvera Ranch, Positano and Central
Parkway; however, service on this route has been suspended since April 6, 2020, as a result of
service reductions implemented due to pandemic related ridership losses. An existing transit
stop is located along Tassajara Road adjacent to the project site.
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Regulatory Framework
Regional and Local Regulations
Metropolitan Transportation Commission
MTC conducts transportation planning, financing, and coordination for the San Francisco Bay
Area, including Alameda County. MTC periodically updates the Regional Transportation Plan,
which plans for the development of mass transit, highway, airport, seaport, railroad, bike, and
pedestrian facilities. The most current Regional Transportation Plan, Transportation 2035,
budgets funding for transportation‐related projects. In addition, MTC and ABAG adopted Plan
Bay Area 2040 in 2017, which is a State‐mandated transportation and land use plan. The
Sustainable Communities Strategy outlines a sustainable communities strategy for the region,
which aims to integrate transportation, land use, and housing to meet GHG reduction targets
established by the California Air Resources Board.
Alameda County Congestion Management Program
The Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC) is an independent special
district that aims to provide sustainable, accessible, and community‐focused transportation
opportunities. The Alameda CTC is the county’s congestion management agency, providing
countywide transportation planning, design and construction of specific highway, pedestrian,
and bicycle improvement projects, as well as the promotion of transit‐oriented development. In
accordance with California Statute, Government code 65088, the Alameda CTC prepares the
Alameda County Congestion Management Program (CMP), which measures the performance of
the county’s multi‐modal transportation system, addresses roadway congestion, and connects
transportation and land use. Alameda CTC also maintains a countywide travel mode in
compliance with Plan Bay Area 2040 and CMP legislation.
The Alameda County CMP contains the following five mandatory elements: (1) level of service
monitoring; (2) performance; (3) travel demand management; (4) land use analysis program;
and (5) capital improvements. The Alameda CTC has also developed information related to
Senate Bill 743 and tools for measuring and reducing vehicle miles travelled.
City of Dublin General Plan
Chapter 5.0, Land Use and Circulation: Circulation and Scenic Highways Element, identifies the
City’s transportation and roadway policies. As described in the City of Dublin General Plan, the
City aims to provide a comprehensive circulation network that supports multiple modes of
transportation including private vehicles, transit, cycling, and walking. The proposed project
would be accessed by existing roadways in the project area and would not modify any existing
roadways. The following policies from the City of Dublin General Plan relate to the proposed
project:
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Implementing Policy 5.2.2.B.2.Design and construct all roads in the City’s circulation
network as defined in Figure 5‐1 as well as bicycle and pedestrian networks as defined in
the City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Guiding Policy 5.2.3.A.1. Provide an integrated multi‐modal circulation system that
provides efficient vehicular circulation while providing a design that allows safe and
convenient travel along and across streets for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists,
persons with disabilities, seniors, children, youth, and families; and encourages
pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and other non‐automobile transportation alternatives.
Guiding Policy 5.4.3.A.1. Plan for all users by creating and maintaining Complete Streets
that provide safe, comfortable, and convenient travel along and across streets (including
streets, roads, highways, bridges, and other portions of the transportation system)
through a comprehensive, integrated transportation network that meets the
requirements of currently adopted transportation plans and serves all categories of
users.
Guiding Policy 5.5.1.A.1. Provide safe, continuous, comfortable and convenient
bikeways throughout the City.
Guiding Policy 5.5.1.A.2. Improve and maintain bikeways and pedestrian facilities and
support facilities in conformance with the recommendations in the Dublin Bicycle and
Pedestrian Master Plan.
Guiding Policy 5.5.1.A.4. Provide comfortable, safe, and convenient walking routes
throughout the City and, in particular, to key destinations such as Downtown Dublin, the
BART Stations, schools, parks, and commercial centers.
Implementing Policy 5.5.1.B.1. Complete the bikeways systems illustrated on Figures 5‐
3a and 5‐3b.
Implementing Policy 5.5.1.B.2. Improve bikeways, bicycle support facilities, and
pedestrian facilities in accordance with the Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan in
conjunction with development proposals.
Implementing Policy 5.5.1.B.3. Ensure on‐going maintenance of bikeways, bicycle
support facilities and pedestrian facilities that are intended for public use and located
on private property in conjunction with development proposals.
Implementing Policy 5.75.1.B.2. Implement the Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridors Policies
and Standards for projects within the Eastern Extended Planning Area.
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Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Chapter 5.0 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines goals, policies and programs to provide
for an integrated, multi‐modal circulation system that reduces potential traffic impacts by
accommodating alternative modes of transportation including walking, bicycles, transit and
ridesharing. The following policies from the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan relate to the proposed
project:
Policy 5‐15: Provide a north‐south trail along Tassajara Creek, and trails along other
stream corridors as shown on the Pedestrian and Bicycle System map.
Policy 5‐17: Establish a bicycle circulation system which helps to serve the need for non‐
motorized transportation and recreation in eastern Dublin that is consistent with the
Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Policy 5‐18: Provide convenient and secure bicycle parking and support facilities at key
destinations in eastern Dublin, such as schools, recreation areas, transit stops and
commercial centers.
Policy 5‐19: Parking requirements in eastern Dublin shall be kept to a minimum
consistent with actual parking needs. Allowance shall be made for shared parking in
mixed‐use areas. Parking requirements may be reduced wherever it can be
demonstrated that use of alternative transportation will reduce parking demand.
Policy 5‐20: Encourage on‐street parking on residential collector and local residential
streets. Allow on‐street parking on lower volume arterial streets within commercial
areas.
City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
The City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan provides policies, network plans,
prioritized project lists, support programs, and best practice design guidelines for bicycling and
walking in Dublin. As shown in Figure 5‐2 of the Plan, Dublin Existing & Proposed Bikeways,
Class IIA Bicycle Lanes are proposed along Tassajara Road and a Class I Shared‐Use Path, the
Tassajara Creek Trail, is proposed along Tassajara Creek in proximity to the project site.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potentially significant impacts related to increased traffic
associated with implementation of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, including impacts to
freeway, intersection, and roadway operations, transit service extensions, and potential safety
hazards for pedestrians and bicycles at street crossings. Mitigation measures were identified to
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reduce most transportation impacts to a less than significant level. These mitigation measures
require construction of new roadways, widening and existing roadways, and improvements to
local freeway facilities to accommodate increased vehicle traffic associated with proposed
development in Eastern Dublin.
Several traffic impacts were determined to be significant and unavoidable, even with
implementation of mitigation. These impacts include impacts to I‐580 between Tassajara Road
and Airway Boulevard (Impact 3.3/B), cumulative freeway impacts (Impact 3.3E), impacts to the
Santa Rita Road/I‐580 eastbound ramps (Impact 3.3/I) and cumulative impacts to Tassajara
Road (Impact 3.3/N).
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR determined that implementation of the Dublin Ranch West project
would result in two potentially significant supplemental impacts associated with traffic
operations and safety along Tassajara Road. The following supplemental mitigation measures
were identified to reduce potential traffic impacts to less than significant:
Supplemental Mitigation Measure TRA‐1: The Project developer shall dedicate right‐of‐
way along the Project frontage and widen Tassajara Road to four lanes between North
Dublin Ranch Drive and Project Northern Access to improve roadway segments near the
Project.
Supplemental Mitigation Measure TRA‐2: The Stage 1 Development Plan for the Dublin
Ranch West Project shall include the following safety features.
c) Install traffic signals at the two Project access roadways due to safety
considerations along Tassajara Road.
d) Provide an eastbound right‐turn capacity from Tassajara Road onto the Project
main access roadway to accommodate vehicles during the a.m. peak hour.
e) Provide northbound left‐turn capacity from Tassajara Road onto the Project main
access roadway, considering anticipated traffic movements to access the Project
site during the p.m. peak hour.
f) Provide an adequate northbound left‐turn lane from Tassajara Road onto the
Project southern access roadway, considering anticipated traffic movements
during the p.m. peak hour.
g) Provide an appropriate southbound right‐turn pocket with an adequate taper
Tassajara Road at both access roadways due to safety considerations.
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2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to transportation
would result from the Wallis Ranch project than were previously analyzed in the prior
environmental documents. The 2014 Addendum acknowledged that the project would continue
to contribute to significant and unavoidable cumulative project impacts as part of the larger
Eastern Dublin project, including impacts to I‐580 between I‐680 and Hacienda Drive, the Santa
Rita Road/I‐580 eastbound ramps, the Dublin Boulevard/Hacienda Drive and Dublin
Boulevard/Tassajara Road intersections, and other impacts to Tassajara Road.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Conflict with applicable transportation plans standards, including bicycle and pedestrian
facilities
No New Impact. The Initial Study prepared to support the 2014 Addendum previously
evaluated the transportation circulation element of the Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project which
included a public park of about 10 acres. Details of amenities included in this park were not
known at the time but most parks have amenities including sports courts, picnic facilities, and
playgrounds. An assessment was made of the proposed project’s amenities to determine if
there were any non‐standard amenities that would result in additional trip generation not
typical of a park of about 9‐10 acres. Based on the assessment of the project’s development
plan, the proposed project is not proposing any park amenities that would result in a different
trip generation than similar parks in the City of Dublin. Additionally, the project is not proposing
any changes to transportation access and circulation in the area. Since the proposed project is a
slightly smaller than what was previously studied (about 9 acres versus about 10 acres), does
not include non‐standard uses that would result in increased trip generation, and does not alter
the transportation circulation system, the proposed project would not result in new impacts or
substantially more severe significant impacts than were analyzed in the prior environmental
documents.
The proposed project would not alter or interfere with transit, bicycle or pedestrian facilities.
The proposed project would maintain existing sidewalks along Tassajara Road, Wallis Ranch
Road, and Rutherford Drive. Pathways within the park would provide pedestrian and bicycle
connections to the various park improvements. Impacts to bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit
service providers resulting from implementation of the proposed project would remain less
than significant and the proposed project would not result in new significant or substantially
more severe impacts related to alternative forms of transportation beyond those analyzed in
the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Conflict with CEQA Section 15064.3 (b)
No New Impact. The topic of the project’s contribution to vehicle miles traveled (VMT) was not
analyzed in the Eastern Dublin EIR, Dublin Ranch West SEIR or 2014 Addendum. This impact is
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not required to be analyzed unless it constitutes new information of substantial importance
that was not known and could not have been known at the time the previous environmental
documents were certified as complete (Public Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA
Guidelines Section 15162 and 15163). The impact of increased traffic was analyzed using other
methods at the time of certification of the Eastern Dublin EIR, Dublin Ranch West SEIR and 2014
Addendum. Under CEQA standards, it is not considered new information that requires analysis
in a Supplemental EIR or negative declaration. Therefore, no supplemental environmental
analysis of the project’s impacts on this issue is required under CEQA.
(c) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature
No New Impact. The proposed project would provide entries to the proposed park elements
along existing roadways, including a proposed parking area off of Rutherford Drive. Proposed
vehicular access would not change the layout of the roadways in the project vicinity. The
design, construction, and maintenance of project site access locations would be in compliance
with the City’s Municipal Code. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in new
significant or substantially more severe significant impacts beyond those already analyzed in
the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(d) Result in inadequate emergency access
No New Impact. The proposed project would not result in inadequate emergency access.
Emergency vehicle access to the project site would continue to be provided via Tassajara Road,
Wallis Ranch Road, and Rutherford Drive. The design, construction, and maintenance of project
site access locations would be in compliance with the City’s Municipal Code and would be
required to meet all emergency access standards. In addition, through Site Plan Review,
emergency services would review proposed plans to ensure that emergency vehicle access and
circulation is adequate. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in new significant or
substantially more severe significant impacts beyond those already analyzed in the prior
environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
Alameda County Transportation Commission. 2021. Congestion Management Program
webpage: www.alamedactc.org/planning/congestion‐management‐program/ (Accessed
June 26, 2021).
Dublin, City of. 2014. City of Dublin Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Dublin, City of. 2015. City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
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Dublin, City of. 2021. City of Dublin Municipal Code. May 18. Available online at:
www.codepublishing.com/CA/Dublin/ (accessed June 25, 2021)
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Livermore Valley Transit Authority. 2021. Route 2 webpage: www.wheelsbus.com/route/route‐
2/ (Accessed June 26, 2021).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
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Tribal Cultural Resources
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources or significant
pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1
The topic of the project’s potential impacts to tribal cultural resources was not specifically
analyzed in the Eastern Dublin EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, or the 2014 Addendum.
However, the Eastern Dublin EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR, and the 2014 Addendum
analyzed prehistoric and historic resources and included mitigation measures related to
historical and archaeological resources and human remains. These measures are listed in the
cultural resources section of this Initial Study Checklist. Additionally, the provisions of Assembly
Bill 52 only apply to projects that require public noticing. For an EIR certified prior to July 2015,
an Addendum to that EIR does not require consultation pursuant to AB 52. Therefore, the
proposed project would not result in significant impact to tribal cultural resources.
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Utilities and Service Systems
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
18. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project:
a. Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or
expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water
drainage, electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities the construction or relocation
of which could cause significant environmental effects?
X
b. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project
and reasonably foreseeable future development during
normal, dry and multiple dry years?
X
c. Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment
provider which serves or may serve the project that it has
adequate capacity to serve the project projected demand
in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
X
d. Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards,
or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or
otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction
goals?
X
e. Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
X
Environmental Setting
A variety of local and regional providers in this area operate and maintain utility and service
system facilities associated with electricity, water, stormwater, wastewater, solid waste,
communications and natural gas.
Water. The Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) provides water service at the project
site. DSRSD is responsible for providing both potable and recycled water to the City of Dublin,
and the Dougherty Valley area of the City of San Ramon in Contra Costa County. DSRSD’s water
service area also includes Camp Parks, the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI), and Alameda
County’s Santa Rita Jail. Zone 7 supplies treated potable water to DSRSD. Treated potable water
enters DSRSD’s distribution system from five metered turnouts from the Zone 7 transmission
system.
To reduce the demand for potable water, DSRSD promotes water recycling and is a member of
the WaterReuse Association. In 1995, DSRSD and EBMUD, through a joint powers agreement,
formed the DSRSD‐EBMUD Recycled Water Authority (DERWA). DERWA serves as a wholesaler
to deliver recycled water to DSRSD and EBMUD, who in turn deliver the recycled water to their
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respective service areas. DERWA’s San Ramon Valley Recycled Water Project (SRVRWP)
provides a backbone distribution system that delivers recycled water to both DSRSD and
EBMUD distribution systems. DSRSD’s recycled water treatment facilities delivers recycled
water to the SRVRWP. Recycled water is produced at DSRSD’s wastewater treatment plant at
the Recycled Water Treatment Facility (RWTF). The RWTF produces recycled water that meets
the California Title 22 requirements for unrestricted reuse.
Wastewater. Wastewater collection and treatment services are also provided by DSRSD for the
City of Dublin, City of Pleasanton, Camp Parks, FCI, Santa Rita Jail, and the southern portion of
San Ramon. DSRSD owns and operates a wastewater treatment plant in Pleasanton that has a
capacity of 17 million gallons per day (MGD). The existing wastewater service area
encompasses approximately 13,340 acres, or 20.85 square miles. Within the wastewater
service area there are currently 207 miles of gravity mains, one permanent lift station, and one
temporary lift station. The permanent lift station has 26 feet of force main.
Stormwater. Drainage and flood control in the Eastern Dublin area is the responsibility of the
City of Dublin and Zone 7. Zone 7 is responsible for master planning, overseeing construction
coordination and maintaining major storm drain channels and culverts in Eastern Dublin. The
City has jurisdiction and maintenance responsibility for local storm drains that discharge to the
Zone 7 flood control system. Runoff from the project area drains to Tassajara Creek, which
flows south to connect with Zone 7 facilities south of I‐580.
Electricity. The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) provides electric and natural gas
service to the San Francisco Bay region. As described in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan, PG&E
has major electrical services to the old Santa Rita facility, and minor lines to existing homes. A
PG&E gas pipeline parallels I‐580 to the south, crossing I‐580 at Tassajara Road and proceeding
west along the north side of the freeway. A regulator station exists at the north side of this I‐
580 crossing, and is the connection point for the gas distribution system for the Eastern Dublin
area.
Solid Waste. The City of Dublin enters into a Franchise Agreement with a private solid waste
collection company for residential and commercial garbage collection. The City also has a
comprehensive recycling program that collects both recycling and organics. All single family
residences and commercial businesses are provided with recycling containers and all multi‐
family residences have access to recycling services.
Solid waste generated within the City is deposited at the Altamont Landfill which has a total
estimated permitted capacity of 62 million cubic yards. The Altamont Landfill is approximately
26 percent full and is estimated to reach capacity in January 2029.
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Regulatory Framework
Federal and State Regulations
California Urban Water Management Planning Act
Under the California Water Code and Urban Water Management Planning Act of 1983, all
California urban water suppliers are required to prepare and adopt an Urban Water
Management Plan (UWMP) every five years, which promotes water conservation and efficiency
measures. Urban water suppliers that serve more than 3,000 customers or are supplying more
than 3,000 acre‐feet of water annually are subject to this Act. This Act requires that the total
project water use be compared to water supply sources over the next 20 years in five‐year
increments. Planning must occur for all drought years and must include a water recycling
analysis that incorporates a description of the wastewater collection and treatment system,
outlining existing and potential recycled water uses. In September 2014, the Act was amended
by SB 1420, which now requires urban water suppliers to provide descriptions of their water
demand management measures and similar information.
Water Conservation Act of 2009
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SB X7‐7) requires all water suppliers to increase water use
efficiency by reducing per capita urban water use by 20 percent by December 31, 2020. This bill
also set a goal for the state of reducing per capita water use by at least 10 percent by December
31, 2015.
California Integrated Waste Management Act (AB 939)
AB 939 established the California Integrated Waste Management Board under CalRecycle,
which required all counties within California to prepare integrated waste management plans.
Additionally, it changed the focus of solid waste management from landfill to diversion
strategies (e.g., source reduction, recycling, and composting), and required all municipalities to
divert 25 percent of their solid waste from landfill disposal by January 1, 1995 and fifty percent
by the year 2000.
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
AB 341 was enacted to help meet California’s recycling goal of 75 percent by the year 2020. AB
341 requires all commercial businesses and public entities that generate 4 cubic yards or more
of waste per week to have a recycling program in place. In addition, multi‐family apartments
with five or more units are also required to form a recycling program. In addition, each local
government jurisdiction will implement a commercial solid waste recycling program that
consists of education, outreach and monitoring of businesses, designed to divert commercial
solid waste from businesses. Each jurisdiction will report the progress achieved in implementing
its commercial recycling program, including education, outreach and monitoring, and if
applicable, enforcement efforts and exemptions, by providing updates in its electronic annual
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report. CalRecycle will review each jurisdiction’s commercial recycling program that consists of
education, outreach and monitoring.
Mandatory Organics Recycling AB 1826
In October 2014 Governor Brown signed AB 1826, requiring businesses to recycle their organic
waste on and after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week.
This law also requires that on and after January 1, 2016, local jurisdictions across the state
implement an organic waste recycling program to divert organic waste generated by
businesses, including multifamily residential dwellings that consist of five or more units. Organic
waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood
waste, and food‐soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste. This law phases in the
mandatory recycling of commercial organics over time, while also offering an exemption
process for rural counties. In particular, the minimum threshold of organic waste generation by
businesses decreases over time, which means an increasingly greater proportion of the
commercial sector will be required to comply.
CALGreen Building Code
CALGreen requires mandatory green standards that all buildings in California must abide by,
including: reducing indoor water use, reducing wastewater, recycling and/or salvaging
nonhazardous construction and demolition debris, and providing readily accessible areas for
recycling by the occupant. The code includes different categories such as energy, water,
material, and resource efficiency. These standards include a mandatory set of minimum
guidelines, as well as more stringent voluntary measures for new construction projects that
local communities can opt into.
Local Regulations
2015 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP)
Water is provided to the project site by DSRSD. The DSRSD adopted a UWMP in 2016 as per SB
X7‐7 and the Urban Water Management Planning Act (Section 10610 of Division 6 of the
California Water Code). These plans are prepared every five years and must address the
reliability of water sources within the following 20 years as well as other demand management
measures and water shortage contingency plans. Additionally, the UWMP identifies strategies
to meet requirements under SB X7‐7 by reporting on progress towards meeting a 20 percent
reduction for per‐capita urban water use by the year 2020. The UWMP also plans for
emergencies and times of water shortage. DSRSD is currently in the process of updating the
UWMP.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 133
City of Dublin General Plan
Chapter 4.0, Land Use and Circulation: Schools, Public Lands, and Utilities Element, identifies
the City’s policies related to the provision of public services and utilities in the City. The
following policies from the City of Dublin General Plan relate to the proposed project:
Guiding Policy 4.4.1.A.1. Ensure that adequate solid waste disposal capacity is available,
to avoid constraining development, consistent with the Dublin General Plan.
Implementing Policy 4.4.1.B.3. Prior to project approval, the applicant shall
demonstrate that capacity will exist in solid waste disposal facilities for their project
prior to the issuance of building permits.
Guiding Policy 4.5.1.A.1. Expand sewage treatment and disposal capacity to avoid
constraining development consistent with the Dublin General Plan.
Implementing Policy 4.5.1.B.1. Prior to project approval, developers shall demonstrate
that adequate capacity will exist in sewage treatment and disposal facilities for their
projects prior to the issuance of building permits.
Guiding Policy 4.6.1.A.1. Base General Plan proposals on the assumption that water
supplies will be sufficient and that local wells could be used to supplement imported
water if necessary.
Implementing Policy 4.6.1.B.1. Consider obtaining water service from the East Bay
Municipal Utility District and other sources.
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
Chapter 8.0 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines goals, policies and programs related to
the provision of community services and facilities in Eastern Dublin. The following policies from
the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan relate to the proposed project:
Policy 8‐7: Support ACWMA efforts to develop alter‐ hate disposal facilities for organic
waste in the Tri‐Valley area, particularly for composting and reuse of organic material.
Policy 8‐8: Encourage the separation of recyclable materials from the general waste
stream by supporting the development of a recycling collection system and facilities.
Policy 8‐9: Coordinate with Pacific Gas and Electric and Pacific Bell in planning and
scheduling future facilities which will serve eastern Dublin.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 134
Chapter 9.0 of the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan outlines goals, policies and programs related to
water, wastewater and storm drainage in Eastern Dublin. The following policies from the
Eastern Dublin Specific Plan relate to the proposed project:
Policy 9‐1: Provide an adequate water supply system and related improvements and
storage facilities for all new development in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area.
Policy 9‐3: Provide for public wastewater collection, treatment and disposal for all new
development in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area.
Policy 9‐6: Ensure wastewater treatment and disposal facilities are available to meet the
needs of future development in eastern Dublin. The City should support DSRSD's and
TWA's wastewater management plans as they relate to the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
area.
Policy 9‐7: Require drainage facilities that will minimize any increased potential for
erosion or flooding.
Policy 9‐8: Require channel improvements consist of natural creek bottoms and side
slopes with natural vegetation where possible to meet Policy 9‐7 above. (See also Policy
7‐11.)
Policy 9‐9: Plan facilities and select management practices in the Eastern Dublin Specific
Plan area that protect and enhance water quality.
Previous CEQA Documents
Eastern Dublin EIR
The Eastern Dublin EIR identified potential significant impacts related to lack of a wastewater
collection system, extension of a sewer trunk line with capacity to serve new developments,
limited treatment plant capacity and wastewater disposal capacity, increased energy use for
wastewater treatment and wastewater disposal, potential failure of the export disposal system,
pump station noise and odors, storage basin odors and potential failure, recycled water system
operations, recycled water storage failure, loss of recycled water system pressure, and
secondary impacts from recycled water system operation. Mitigation measures were identified
to reduce most wastewater impacts to a less than significant level. Impacts associated with
increased energy use for wastewater treatment and disposal were determined to be significant
and unavoidable, even with implementation of mitigation.
The Eastern Dublin EIR also identified potential significant impacts related to overdraft of local
groundwater resources, increased demand for water, additional treatment plant capacity, lack
of a water distribution system, inducement of substantial growth, increase in energy usage
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 135
through operation of the water distribution system, potential water storage reservoir failure,
potential loss of system pressure, and potential pump station noise. Mitigation measures were
identified to reduce most water impacts to a less than significant level. Impacts associated with
increased energy use for water distribution and population growth were determined to be
significant and unavoidable, even with implementation of mitigation.
Potentially significant impacts related to storm drainage identified in the Eastern Dublin EIR are
described in Section 9.0, Hydrology and Water Quality.
Dublin Ranch West SEIR
The Dublin Ranch West SEIR identified no supplemental impacts resulting from the Dublin
Ranch West project because the Dublin Ranch West project would result in the same type and
density of development assumed in the Eastern Dublin EIR; therefore, demand for utilities
would not differ significantly from that analyzed as part of the Eastern Dublin EIR.
2014 Addendum
The 2014 Addendum determined that no new or more severe impacts related to utilities and
service systems would result from the Wallis Ranch project than were previously analyzed in
the prior environmental documents.
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a) Require relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or
storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas or telecommunications facilities
No New Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would result in the construction of
new park improvements, including a restroom and drinking fountains as well as landscape and
turf areas that would require irrigation. These facilities would be located adjacent to existing
roadways and could be connected to the existing public service system, including local water
and sewer. These connections would not be considered “major” lines because these
improvements would be made as additions to the existing infrastructure.
It is expected that the relatively small amount of wastewater generated from park
improvements (e.g., one restroom) and increased water demand can be accommodated by
local sanitary treatment systems and water supply infrastructure and would not require
relocation or construction of new or expanded wastewater facilities or water systems.
As described in Section 9, Hydrology and Water Quality, the proposed project would be
required to comply with the MRP that requires implementation of measures for site design,
source control, runoff reduction, stormwater treatment, and baseline hydromodification
management. Hydromodification is the alteration of the natural flow of water through a
landscape, and often takes the form of creek channel erosion. Hydromodification is one of the
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 136
leading sources of impairment in streams, lakes, and estuaries. The MRP also requires
implementation of LID Standards. Compliance with these measures would ensure that
additional stormwater runoff resulting from the proposed project would be retained and
infiltrated on site before being discharged into the storm drain system. Therefore, the proposed
project would not require or result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or
the expansion of existing facilities.
As described in the Project Description, lighting is proposed to promote security and safety for
park users and to accommodate nighttime use of the sports courts. Proposed lighting would tie
into existing electric utilities and is not anticipated to generate substantial additional demand
such that new facilities or expansion of facilities would be required.
The proposed project is consistent with the type and intensity of development analyzed in the
Eastern Dublin EIR, the Dublin Ranch West SEIR and the 2014 Addendum. No new significant or
substantially more severe significant impacts related to expanded water, wastewater,
stormwater, electric power natural gas, or telecommunication facilities would occur beyond
those analyzed in the prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
(b) Sufficient water supply
No New Impact. Proposed landscaping would be either native species or drought tolerant
species for water conservation; however, the turf grass areas would require typical
maintenance such as fertilizer and irrigation. An automatic irrigation system would be designed
to minimize water use and be adapted to weather conditions. Additionally, the proposed
restroom and water fountains would not generate substantial additional demand for potable
water. Therefore, sufficient water supplies would be available to serve the project and
reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years.
The size and intensity of proposed development associated with the park project is consistent
with the level of development anticipated in the prior environmental documents. Therefore,
the proposed project would not result in any new significant or substantially more severe
significant impacts as compared to those impacts analyzed in the prior environmental
documents. No additional analysis is required.
(c) Sufficient wastewater capacity
No New Impact. Refer to Section 18.a for a discussion of the proposed project’s impacts to
wastewater treatment. The proposed project would result in a very minor contribution to the
daily permitted capacity of the DSRSD’s wastewater treatment plant and would not exceed the
plant capacity. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in any new significant or
substantially more severe significant impacts as compared to those impacts analyzed in the
prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 137
(d‐e) Adequate landfill and compliance
No New Impact. Operation of the proposed project is not anticipated to generate a significant
amount of solid waste. Users of the Wallis Ranch Park and other recreation facilities at the
project site would dispose of garbage, but not in amounts that would greatly exceed average
per capita garbage generation rates. In addition, recycling receptacles would be located
throughout the park, allowing the proposed project to be in full compliance with waste
diversion goals mandated by the California Integrated Waste Management Act.
The amount of solid waste generated by both users of the park and construction of park
facilities or infrastructure would not substantially decrease the amount of space in the
Altamont Landfill. Solid waste disposal off‐site would comply with all local, State, and federal
requirements. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in any new significant or
substantially more severe significant impacts as compared to those impacts analyzed in the
prior environmental documents. No additional analysis is required.
Source(s)
California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle). 2020. Website:
www.calrecycle.ca.gov/Recycle/Commercial/ (accessed September 15, 2020)
Dublin, City of. 2017. City of Dublin General Plan, Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of
November 21, 2017).
Dublin, City of. 2021. City of Dublin Municipal Code. May 18. Available online at:
www.codepublishing.com/CA/Dublin/ (accessed June 25, 2021)
Dublin San Ramon Services District. 2019. 2017 Wastewater Collection System Master Plan
Final Report. December. Available online at:
www.dsrsd.com/home/showpublisheddocument/7233/637244492827570000
(accessed June 27, 2021).
Dublin San Ramon Services District. 2016. Final 2015 Urban Water Management Plan. June.
Available online at:
www.dsrsd.com/home/showpublisheddocument/2890/636057351291330000
(accessed June 27, 2021).
Haag, Jerry. 2004. Dublin Ranch West Project, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report. November.
Haag, Jerry. 2014. Wallis Ranch/Trumark Project PLPA 2013‐00035, Initial Study. April 22.
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 2016. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. January 7, 1994 (Updated
September 20, 2016).
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 138
Wallace Roberts & Todd. 1992. Final Environmental Impact Report, State Clearinghouse
Number 91103064 Eastern Dublin General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan.
December 7.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 139
Wildfire
Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures
(a‐d) Impair an emergency response plan, exposure to wildfire, require installation or
maintenance of infrastructure, exposure of flooding or landslides
The Eastern Dublin EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR were certified prior to the mandatory
analysis of wildfire impacts. However, wildfire risks were adequately discussed in Section 8.h.
The proposed project would not create significant impacts related to wildfire. No additional
analysis is required.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 140
Mandatory Findings of Significance
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Unless
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
New
Impact
18. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE. Does the project:
a. 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?
X
b. Have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the
incremental effects of a project are considerable when
viewed in connection with the effects of the past projects,
the effects of other current projects, and the effects of
probable future projects.)
X
c. Have environmental effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either directly or
indirectly?
X
Significant Impacts
Construction and operation of the proposed project would not substantially degrade the quality
of the environment; reduce the habitat, population, or range of a plant or animal species; or
eliminate important examples of California history or prehistory. Potential impacts to biological
and cultural resources, including special‐status species, sensitive habitat, riparian areas and
wetlands, nesting birds, historic and pre‐historic resources were analyzed in the Eastern Dublin
EIR and the Dublin Ranch West SEIR. Construction‐related air quality and noise impacts were
also evaluated in the prior environmental documents.
The proposed project would construct park improvements within the site designated for park
use; therefore, the intensity of development proposed is consistent with that evaluated in the
prior environmental documents. In addition, the proposed project would implement the
applicable mitigation measures identified in the prior environmental document. With
implementation of these mitigation measures, the proposed project would result in less than
significant impacts to the quality of the environment. No new impacts or substantially more
severe significant impacts would occur. No additional analysis is required.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
Addendum to the Eastern Dublin EIR and the 2005 Dublin Ranch West SEIR| Page 141
Cumulative Impacts
Cumulative impacts associated with implementation of the proposed project were considered
and evaluated in the Eastern Dublin EIR, Dublin Ranch West SEIR, and the 2014 Addendum. No
new cumulative impacts or substantially more severe significant cumulative impacts were
identified as a result of implementing the proposed park project.
City of Dublin WALLIS RANCH PARK PROJECT
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Liverm ore
SOURCE: ESRI World Street Maps (2021).
I:\DUB1601.03\GIS\Maps\Figure 1_Regonal Location.mxd (6/29/2021)
FIGURE 1
Wallis Ranch Park ProjectDublin, Alameda County, CaliforniaRegional Location
Project Vicinity
0 1000 2000
FEET
LEGEN D
Project Parcels
Project Location
Project Site
TTassajara Rd Fallon RdTassajara RdTassajara RdWallis Ranch DrRutherford DriveBranding Iron CtSilvera Ranc h D r
Tassajara CreekTassajara Rd Fallon RdTassajara RdWallis Ranch DrRutherford DriveBranding Iron CtSilvera Ranc h D r
Tassajara CreekTHE QUARRYLANE SCHOOLYARRA YARRAEQUESTRIANCENTERTASSAJARA CREEKREGIONAL PARKLOWER QUARRYLANE SCHOOLFEETProject Site Boundaries5000 250SOURCES: Google Earth, 2/24/2021; LSA, 2021P:\DUB1601.03 Wallis Ranch Project\PRODUCTS\Graphics\Figure_2.ai (6/25/2021)FIGURE 2Wallis Ranch Park ProjectAerial Photograph of the Project Site and Surrounding Land Uses
160080FEETSOURCES: City of Dublin; CALA, June 2021P:\DUB1601.03 Wallis Ranch Project\PRODUCTS\Graphics\Figure_3 11x17.ai (6/25/2021)FIGURE 3Wallis Ranch Park ProjectConceptual Park Plan - AlternaƟve A
160080FEETSOURCES: City of Dublin; CALA, June 2021P:\DUB1601.03 Wallis Ranch Project\PRODUCTS\Graphics\Figure_4 11x17.ai (6/25/2021)FIGURE 4Wallis Ranch Park ProjectConceptual Park Plan - AlternaƟve B
0’ 20’ 40’ 80’ 21006_PreferredPlan_30x72.inddFUTURE COMMUNITY PARKNEAR THE WALLIS RANCH DEVELOPMENTSeptember 8, 2021CONCEPT PLANTASSAJARACREEKQUARRY LANE SCHOOLWALLIS RANCH COMMUNITYCAMP PARKSTO I-580TO FALLON RDTASSAJARA RDPARCEL 22SEPARATED DOG PARK WITH NATURAL TURF AND INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ROTATION OF TURF MAINTENANCEUNPLANTED LANDSCAPE, TYP.ORCHARD GRID ACCENT TREES, TYP.ENTRY PLAZASHADE TREE, TYP.TURFPARKING LOT, 25 SPACES LIGHTED SPORTS COURTS (3 DEDICATED TENNIS, 4 DEDICATED PICKLEBALL, 1 TENNIS/PICKLEBALL COMBO)LIGHTED BASKETBALL COURTS (2)PICNIC AREAENTRY PLAZATOT PLAY AREA PICNIC AREAYOUTH PLAY AREA NATURE PLAY AREA RESTROOMDROUGHT-TOLERANT PLANTINGOVERLOOKOPEN TURF RECREATION AREAENTRY PLAZARESTROOMPARCEL 21PARCEL 16WALLISRANCHDRRUTHERFORDDRIVEEXISTING SCULPTUREFITNESS NODE, TYP. OF 6
21006_PrelimAlts_ImageryBoards_30x42.inddFUTURE COMMUNITY PARKNEAR THE WALLIS RANCH DEVELOPMENTJune 5, 2021THEME 3 - WINDSWEPT GRASSLANDSINSPIRATION IMAGERY