5.1 LAND USE AND RELEVANT PLANNING

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1 5.1 LAND USE AND RELEVANT PLANNING The purpose of this section is to identify the existing land use conditions, evaluate consistency with relevant planning policies and recommend mitigation measures, which would avoid or lessen the significance of potential impacts. This section identifies on-site and surrounding land use conditions and land use policy requirements set forth by the City of Lancaster (City). Information in this section is based upon the City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan and Master Environmental Assessment (Adopted October 1997) and the City of Lancaster Municipal Code EXISTING SETTING LAND USE PATTERNS The project area is located within the City s central core, which represents the older portion of the City. The central core contains much of the major commercial and older residential neighborhoods, as well as the residential subdivisions and multiple-family projects constructed during the 1980s. Most recognizable in the core area is Downtown Lancaster, which is generally defined by Avenue I on the north, Avenue J on the south, Sierra Highway on the east and 10th Street West on the west. The Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan (DLSP) area, which encompasses the central portion of the City s Downtown, is generally bounded by Kettering Street to the north, Newgrove Street to the southeast, Milling Street to the southwest, Union Pacific Rail line to the east and 10 th Street West to the west; refer to Exhibit 3-3, Project Aerial Photograph. The Downtown area is characterized by a mix of single- and multiple-family residential uses, commercial uses, office uses, public uses and institutional uses. The area is organized on a closely spaced grid system of local collector streets that provide multiple paths of travel for vehicles. Access is also available to the rear of many properties by improved alleys. The collector streets and alleys, combined with the major arterials, provide direct access between the various land uses. Parking options in the Downtown include private and public parking lots, as well as two-hour on-street parking along most streets. Parking areas are often shared between uses. Commercial land use patterns in the area generally consist of the commercial center of the Downtown and DLSP area (i.e., the Lancaster Boulevard commercial core) and strip commercial along primary and secondary highways. A variety of community commercial establishments are located within the Lancaster Boulevard commercial core. Single-story commercial structures are located along Lancaster Boulevard in a semi-continuous strip (between Sierra Highway and 10 th Street West), which is interrupted only by streets and alleys. Commercial structures continue onto the side streets, but their pattern is interrupted in places by vacant lots, parking lots and residential uses. Various public buildings are scattered throughout this area. Most of the strip commercial in the project area developed prior to City incorporation. Patterns of strip commercial within the DLSP area are primarily located along 10th Street West and a strip commercial/industrial land use pattern that follows Sierra Highway. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

2 OVERVIEW OF EXISTING LAND USES The land uses present within the DLSP area are illustrated on Exhibit 5.1-1, Existing Land Use, and summarized in Table 5.1-1, Existing Land Use. As indicated in Table 5.1-1, the area consists of a mix of land uses including acres of commercial uses, 9.28 acres of office uses, 6.40 acres of institutional uses, acres of civic/public uses and acres of residential uses. Additionally, approximately 6.05 acres of vacant land occur throughout the DLSP area. As indicated in Table 5.1-1, commercial land uses are the predominant land use, encompassing approximately percent of the total DLSP area. Land Use Table Existing Land Use Acres Total Acres Percent of DLSP Square Feet Dwelling Units Commercial Uses Retail Commercial ,114 Service Commercial ,585 Auto Service Business ,572 Banking ,672 Eating/Drinking ,128 Professional Service ,807 Private Parking Subtotal Commercial Uses ,878 Office Uses Medical Office ,083 General Office ,665 Subtotal Office Uses ,748 Institutional Uses Religious ,630 Educational ,929 Subtotal Institutional Uses ,559 Public/Quasi-Public Uses Civic/Public ,350 Cultural ,364 Public Parking Subtotal Public/Quasi-Public Uses ,714 Residential Uses Single-Family Dwellings Multi-Family Dwellings Subtotal Residential Uses Vacant Land Vacant Land 6.05 Subtotal Vacant Land Right-of-Way Right-of-Way Subtotal Right-of-Way Total % 1,115, Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

3 NOT TO SCALE 08/08 JN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT DOWNTOWN LANCASTER SPECIFIC PLAN Existing Land Uses Exhibit 5.1-1

4 Table also outlines the distribution of the land uses present within the DLSP area. As indicated in Table 5.1-1, approximately 475,878 square feet (s.f.) of commercial uses exist in the area. These commercial uses are dominated by auto services, banking, professional services, general retail, eating and drinking establishments and service commercial. Approximately one-half of the building facades along Lancaster Boulevard have storefront windows, which are conducive to an active pedestrian environment. Office land uses involve an estimated 185,748 s.f. of floor area (refer to Table 5.1-1). The existing office uses include medical offices and general offices. Approximately 91,559 s.f. of institutional land uses are located within the area including religious and educational uses (refer to Table 5.1-1). The religious uses are comprised of several churches located throughout the DLSP area. Various public/quasi public land uses are interspersed throughout the DLSP area and amount to an estimated 362,714 s.f. of floor area (refer to Table 5.1-1). These uses include public, civic and cultural uses. Most notable among the public uses are the Los Angeles County Sheriff s Department Lancaster Station, County of Los Angeles Lancaster Regional Library, U.S. Post Office, County of Los Angeles Health Building and the Metrolink Lancaster Station; Los Angeles County Library Lancaster Branch, County Fire Station No. 33 and Lancaster City Hall. Existing cultural uses include the Lancaster Performing Arts Center and Lancaster Museum/Art Gallery. A total of 252 residential dwelling units are located within the DLSP area, including 36 singleand 216 multi-family units. Although interspersed throughout the area, the residential land uses are predominantly located south of Lancaster Boulevard, between Fern Avenue and 10 th Street West (south of the alley) and between Beech and Cedar Avenues (south of Milling Street). Three large-scale multi-family residential uses exist within the area, southwest of the Kettering Street/Beech Avenue intersection and south of Kettering Street (between Elm and Fig Avenues). Also, mixed residential/office or retail along Lancaster Boulevard and southeast of the Lancaster Boulevard/Sierra Highway intersection. The 6.05 acres of vacant land that are located within the DLSP area are distributed throughout the DLSP area. The land uses surrounding the DLSP area are: North: The North Downtown Neighborhood Revitalization/Transit Village Plan area is located north of the project area. This area consists of a mix of residential, commercial, industrial and institutional (educational and religious) uses. South: Residential uses are primarily located south of the project area with commercial uses located along 10th Street West and Sierra Highway. East: Industrial and commercial uses, as well as vacant land are located east of the project area. West: Residential, office and commercial/retail uses are located west of the project site. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

5 5.1.2 REGULATORY SETTING Development in the City is subject to the policies, standards and guidelines contained within several relevant planning documents. Relevant planning documents related to land uses for the project site are described below. CITY OF LANCASTER 2020 GENERAL PLAN The City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan (General Plan) identifies the types of development that would be allowed, the spatial relationships among land uses and the general pattern of future development. The General Plan is a policy statement to guide future growth. It presents the issues that face the City of Lancaster, as well as the goals, objectives, policies and specific actions that the City will pursue to resolve those issues. It is divided into nine sections: Introduction; Plan for the Natural Environment; Plan for Public Health and Safety; Plan for the Living Environment; Plan for Physical Mobility; Plan for Municipal Services and Facilities; Plan for Economic Development and Vitality; Plan for Physical Development; and The Housing Element. 1 Each of the plans includes the following three sections: Introduction: This section provides a brief overview of the purpose and structure of the chapter. Issues, Opportunities and Constraints: The Issues, Opportunities and Constraints section is a summary of the issues and opportunities, which provided the basis for the policy section of the plan. Goals, Objectives, Policies, and Specific Actions: This section provides a presentation of the specific directives that the City uses to guide new development, maintain the environment and define the future character of the community. The relevant issues, opportunities and constraints identified in each of the General Plan sections are discussed below. Policies serve as guidelines, which the City follows in attaining objectives. The General Plan policies also serve as principles upon which the actions leading to completion of objectives, and therefore, the goals, will be based. The Specific Actions are programs to be taken to implement identified General Plan policies. PLAN FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT The Plan for the Natural Environment addresses the use and management of natural resources and open space lands within the General Plan study area. This plan focuses on those resources suitable for certain levels of maintenance and protection, as well as their limitations for rural or urban use. Major sections within the Plan for the Natural Environment are: Water Resources; Air Resources; Biological Resources; Land Resources; Energy Resources; 1 The Housing Element is a part of the General Plan policy document but was adopted under separate cover on June 26, 2001 to facilitate review by the State Department of Housing and Community Development. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

6 Mineral Resources; and Scenic Resources. PLAN FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY The Plan for Public Health and Safety contains an evaluation of natural and manmade conditions, which may pose certain levels of health and safety hazards to life and property within Lancaster, along with a comprehensive program to mitigate those hazards to acceptable levels. Inherent in this plan is a determination of acceptable risk. The Plan for Public Health and Safety addresses the following issues: Geology and Seismicity; Flooding and Drainage; Noise; Air Installation Land Use Compatibility; Hazardous Materials; Crime Prevention and Protection Services; Fire Prevention and Suppression Services; Disaster Preparedness; and Emergency Medical Facilities. PLAN FOR THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT The Plan for the Living Environment contains plans and programs for the provision of quality living environments. It focuses on the components of the community's shelter, culture and lifestyle. The Plan addresses the following issues: Population and Housing; Provision of School Sites/Facilities; Park Land; Pedestrian, Equestrian and Bicycle Trails; Historical, Archaeological and Cultural Resources; Cultural and Art Programs and Facilities; Library Facilities; and Social Service Programs. PLAN FOR THE PHYSICAL MOBILITY Physical mobility, which is how goods and people move about in a community, is one of the most pervasive issues a locality must address. This issue affects land use, urban design, energy consumption, air quality and the City s infrastructure. Major sections within the Plan for Physical Mobility are: Streets and Highways; Parking Facilities; Alternative Transportation Modes; Commodity Movement; and Air Transportation. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

7 Lancaster residents have several alternative modes of transportation available to them, including van pooling, local and regional bus service and Metrolink commuter rail service to the Los Angeles basin. Opportunities also exist to encourage walking and bicycling, as alternative modes of transportation within Lancaster. The design of new development should allow for safe and convenient pedestrian, bicycle and public transit access. The Metrolink Lancaster Station is located in the southeast portion of the DLSP area, at Sierra Highway. Metrolink is a regional rail system, including commuter and other passenger services, linking communities to employment and activity centers. The Antelope Valley Line connects Lancaster and Santa Clarita with Downtown Los Angeles. PLAN FOR MUNICIPAL SERVICES AND FACILITIES The Plan for Municipal Services and Facilities addresses the services and facilities needed to support existing and future residential, commercial and industrial development. The Plan sets forth policies and standards for the rational and cost-efficient provision and extension of public services to support planned development and protect natural resources. Major sections within the Plan for Municipal Services and Facilities are: Levels of Service; Water Facilities; Flood Control and Drainage; Wastewater Facilities; Solid Waste Management; and Coordination of Development and Public Services. PLAN FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND VITALITY The Plan for Economic Development and Vitality consists of the ways in which people and businesses contribute to the City's economy through consumption, production, investment and job creation. The Plan outlines the ways in which the community is striving for economic selfsufficiency and presents a program to facilitate those efforts. The Plan for Economic Development and Vitality addresses: Creation and retention of local employment; Provision of municipal revenue-generating land uses; Role of Downtown Lancaster in the future of the City; Establishment of Lancaster as a center for regional activities; and Financing public services and facilities for new development. The General Plan notes the following regarding the role of Downtown Lancaster in the future of the City: Downtown Lancaster has traditionally served, not only as the community s cultural, governmental and financial center, but also as its commercial center. However, as population grows and the City expands outward, major commercial facilities will be built outside of the Downtown area. This trend has been established for some time with the construction of major commercial centers along the Antelope Valley Freeway. Although it is desirable to retain as much commercial within the Downtown area as possible, Downtown will no longer function as a communitywide commercial center. If Lancaster Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

8 is to avoid the problems faced by many traditional downtown areas, it is critical that the City establish and maintain a new, enhanced role for its Downtown. In recent years, as commercial uses moved outward from the Downtown area, cultural, financial and governmental facilities have moved in. This is particularly evidenced by the development of the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, County Sheriff s Station, County Library and Metrolink Station in the Downtown area. It is the intent of the City of Lancaster that its downtown function as a strong, viable center for [Antelope] Valley cultural, governmental and financial activities. PLAN FOR PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT The Plan for Physical Development focuses on the organization of the City s physical environment into a logical, functional and aesthetic pattern consistent with local social values. These policies and programs are illustrated on the General Plan Land Use Map. Major sections within the Plan for Physical Development are: Land Use Categories; Land Use Patterns; Community Form; and Interagency Land Use Coordination. Land Use Categories Along with the text of the General Plan is the General Plan Land Use Map, which illustrates the proposed land uses. A description of the categories utilized on the map is provided in Table VIII-1 of the General Plan, General Plan Land Use Categories. Together, the map and table illustrate the overall land use pattern desired by the City for its future. Because the Land Use Map is a graphic illustration of General Plan s goals, objectives, policies and specific actions, development within the City must not only be consistent with the Land Use Map, but also with the provisions of the General Plan text. The General Plan land use categories present within the DLSP area are illustrated on Exhibit 5.1-2, General Plan Land Use, and summarized in Table 5.1-2, Existing General Plan Land Use Categories. As indicated in Table 5.1-2, the land use categories present within the DLSP area are: 5.43 acres of Residential uses, acres of Commercial uses, 4.19 acres of Public uses and 3.76 acres of Light Industrial uses. Based on these existing land use categories, the maximum development potential of the DLSP area is 155 du, 3,766,514 s.f. of Commercial uses, 182,408 s.f. of Public uses and 81,797 s.f. of Light Industrial uses. Land Use Patterns The General Plan notes the following regarding land use patterns in the City and community form, respectively: The historic character of the City has had a significant influence on present land use patterns in the City. Lancaster s early form of a Downtown centered around the Southern Pacific Railroad and extending along the highway is typical of many cities. This has, however, led to problems of incompatible land uses. The current trend toward alternative development concepts may offer opportunities for Lancaster to reduce dependence on the automobile, improve pedestrian access, and create more livable neighborhoods. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

9 NOT TO SCALE 08/08 JN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT DOWNTOWN LANCASTER SPECIFIC PLAN General Plan Land Use Exhibit 5.1-2

10 Table Existing General Plan Land Use Categories Designation Land Use Type and Intensity of Use Acres Development Potential UR Urban Residential Density: 2.1 to 6.5 DU/AC du MR1 MFR Medium Density Density: 6.6 to 15 DU/AC du Subtotal Residential C Commercial Includes a broad spectrum of uses, including regional, community, neighborhood, and highway-oriented uses ,766,514 s.f. FAR : From 0.5 to 1.0. P Public Uses and lands in public ownership, including governmental administration and service facilities ,408 s.f. Maximum FAR: 1.0. LI Light Industrial Clean, non-polluting industrial and office uses with support commercial. Maximum FAR: ,797 s.f. DU/AC = Dwelling Units Per Acre; MFR = Multiple Family Residential; FAR = Floor Area Ratio; s.f. = square feet. Source: Table VIII-1 of City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan, General Plan Land Use Categories. HOUSING ELEMENT The Housing Element presents an assessment of housing needs within Lancaster based on existing and projected housing, population and market characteristics. It defines the City s overall housing goals and establishes housing programs that serve as a basis for meeting existing and anticipated housing needs that further facilitates attainment of the City s housing goals. RELATED DOCUMENTS The City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan is a policy statement. It is accompanied by the City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Volume 1 - Master Environmental Assessment and the City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Volume 2 Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR), which is the Program EIR for the General Plan update. There are seven redevelopment project areas in Lancaster, which allow the City to assist in rehabilitating existing structures, as well as assembling underutilized land for development. Portions of the DLSP area are located within two City-designated redevelopment project areas: the Lancaster Central Business District (CBD) Redevelopment Project and City of Lancaster Redevelopment Project No. 5. CITY OF LANCASTER 2020 GENERAL PLAN MASTER ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Master Environmental Assessment (MEA) identified the existing conditions in the City, including infrastructure capacities and environmental indicators, and described the overall environmental characteristics of the City. The MEA Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

11 examined the following specific issues: earth resources; biological resources, land use, population, transportation/circulation, air quality, noise public services (fire protection and emergency services, police protection, public schools, parks/recreation/trails and public facilities/cultural/social services), utilities (water, wastewater, storm drainage, solid waste, energy), historical resources, scenic resources and fiscal resources. The MEA was prepared in conjunction with the for the General Plan Update. REDEVELOPMENT PLANS The majority (i.e., central portion) of the DLSP area is located within the Lancaster CBD Redevelopment Project area; the remainder (periphery portions) is located within City of Lancaster Redevelopment Project No. 5 area. Implementation of the redevelopment projects allows for property acquisition and management, participation of owners and tenants, relocation of displaced project occupants, demolition or removal of existing buildings and improvements, construction of public improvements, renovation of existing structures and disposition and redevelopment of land. Following is a brief overview of the referenced redevelopment projects: Lancaster Central Business District Redevelopment Project The Redevelopment Plan for the Lancaster Central Business District Redevelopment Project was adopted in May It involves the revitalization of approximately 438 acres in the center of the City. The primary goal of the redevelopment project area has been to revitalize the historic core of the Downtown area. The project allows for a total of 122 acres of commercial, 108 acres of industrial and 47 acres of residential uses. For analytical purposes, the redevelopment project area was disaggregated into 23 sub-areas; refer to Figure 5 of the Final EIR for the Lancaster Central Business District Redevelopment Project, Project Area Analysis Sub-Areas. According to Figure 5, portions of the DLSP are located within Sub-areas 6 through 11, 13, 18 and 20. Following is a summary of the potential redevelopment improvements, which are considered of the greatest significance in achieving the redevelopment objectives: Sub-areas 6, 7, 11 and 13 (Sierra Highway Corridor). The improvements in these Sub-areas include: renovation of existing commercial structures; streetscape and landscape improvements; consolidation of auto dealerships into a sales park environment; and Sierra Highway traffic improvements. Sub-areas 8, 9 and 10 (Lancaster Boulevard Commercial Corridor). The improvements in these Sub-areas include: renovation of existing commercial structures; streetscape improvements (landscaping, street furniture, lighting, etc); infilling of vacant parcels with new commercial development; and acquisition of deteriorated residences, businesses, and/or vacant parcels for expansion of existing commercial uses, new commercial development, and/or establishment of parking facilities. Sub-area 18 (Vacant Parcels). The improvement specified for this Sub-area is infilling with new development. In areas of existing development (e.g., Sub-area 20), the redevelopment plan allows for the acquisition of structures to attain the defined redevelopment objectives. The acquisition of property within Sub-area 20 would provide for the extension of Milling Street to 10 th Street West. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

12 City of Lancaster Redevelopment Project No. 5 The Redevelopment Plan for the City of Lancaster Redevelopment Project No. 5 was adopted August It involves the revitalization of approximately 4,300 acres throughout the City of Lancaster. The primary purpose of the redevelopment project has been to provide housing rehabilitation assistance and infrastructure upgrading programs to older residential neighborhoods in the community. CITY OF LANCASTER MUNICIPAL CODE The City of Lancaster Municipal Code (City Code) consists of all the regulatory and penal ordinances and administrative ordinances of the City of Lancaster. It is the method the City uses to implement control of land uses, in accordance with General Plan goals and policies. The City of Lancaster Zoning Ordinance (Title 17 of the Municipal Code) identifies land uses permitted and prohibited according to the zoning district of particular parcels, and the development regulations for each of the respective districts. The City of Lancaster Zoning Map (October 13, 1998 with subsequent update) (Zoning Map) was used to identify the zoning districts of the DLSP area. The zoning districts that exist within the DLSP area are illustrated on Exhibit 5.1-3, Existing Zoning Districts, and summarized in Table 5.1-3, Existing Zoning Districts. As indicated in Table 5.1-3, the development potential of the DLSP area, according to the existing zoning districts, is 129 dwelling units, 4,063,791 s.f. of Commercial uses (i.e., General Commercial, Central Business District and Commercial Planned Development), 81,797 s.f. of Light Industrial uses, and 182,408 s.f. of Public uses. Table Existing Zoning Districts Zone Land Use Type and Intensity of Use R-7000 HDR-1 C CBD CPD LI P Low Density Residential Single-Family Dwellings High Density Residential Multiple-Family Dwellings General Commercial Central Business District Commercial Planned Development Light Industrial Public Existing Acres Development Potential 1 DU per 7,000 SF minimum net area Attached DU; 15.1 to 25 DU/AC Subtotal Residential Maximum FAR: 1.0 Minimum Lot Area: 10,000 SF ,083 Maximum FAR: None Minimum Lot Area: 5,000 SF ,599,876 With CUP, Maximum Lot Coverage: 40% of net area ,832 Maximum FAR: 0.5 Minimum Lot Area: 10,000 SF ,797 Maximum FAR: 1.0 Min. Lot Area: Determined by Director ,408 DU = Dwelling Unit; SF = Square Foot; DU/AC = Dwelling Units Per Acre; FAR = Floor Area Ratio. Source: City of Lancaster Zoning Ordinance (Title 17 of the Municipal Code). Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

13 NOT TO SCALE 08/08 JN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT DOWNTOWN LANCASTER SPECIFIC PLAN Existing Zoning Districts Exhibit 5.1-3

14 FEDERAL PLANS Clean Air Act The Federal Clean Air Act was enacted to protect and enhance air quality and promote the health and welfare of the public. The EPA has established ambient air quality standards for certain criteria pollutants that are generally implemented by State and local agencies; refer to Section 5.4, Air Quality. Clean Water Act (Section 404) Section 404(b) of the Federal Clean Water Act was established to preserve water quality, and discourages the alteration or destruction of wetlands. This act requires that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) evaluate the impacts of discharge of dredged or fill materials into any water of the United States. The USACE wetlands policy requires the implementation of mitigation measures for any impacts on designated wetland areas; refer to Section 10.0, Effects Found Not To Be Significant. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Program The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Program (NPDES program) requires industrial and municipal dischargers of water pollutants to obtain permits from the appropriate Regional Water Quality Control Board. Point-source dischargers of pollutants into surface waters are required to obtain an NPDES permit. Other dischargers, such as those affecting groundwater or from nonpoint sources are required to file a Report of Waste Discharge. For specified situations, some permits may be waived and some discharge activities may be handled through enrollment in an existing general permit. The existing NPDES (Phase I) stormwater program requires municipalities serving greater than 100,000 persons to obtain a NPDES stormwater permit for construction projects greater than five acres in size. Proposed NPDES stormwater regulations (Phase II) expand this existing national program to smaller municipalities with populations of 10,000 persons or more and to construction sites that disturb greater than one acre; refer to Section 5.10, Hydrology and Water Quality. REGIONAL PLANS Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Plans and Policies In addition to locally adopted plans, ordinances and regulations, a number of regional plans also influence land use planning in the City of Lancaster. Regional planning agencies such as SCAG recognize that planning issues extend beyond the boundaries of individual cities. Efforts to address regional planning issues such as affordable housing, transportation and air pollution have resulted in the adoption of regional plans that affect the City of Lancaster and the County of Los Angeles. SCAG has evolved as the largest council of governments in the United States, functioning as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for six counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura and Imperial and including 184 cities. The region encompasses a population exceeding 15 million persons in an area of more than 38,000 square miles. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

15 The Federal government mandates SCAG, as the designated MPO, to research and develop plans for transportation, growth management, hazardous waste management and air quality. These mandates led SCAG to prepare comprehensive regional plans to address these concerns. SCAG s responsibility as the region s clearinghouse includes implementation of CEQA. Legislation requires the review of local plans, projects and programs for consistency with regional plans. SCAG has determined through the Notice of Preparation (NOP) process that the proposed project is regionally significant. 2 As a result, the EIR is required to discuss any inconsistencies between the proposed project and regional plans. SCAG s regional plans include: Regional Comprehensive Plan and Guide (RCPG); Regional Transportation Plan (RTP); and Compass Growth Vision (CGV) IMPACT THRESHOLDS AND SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may create a significant environmental impact relative to land use if it would: Physically divide an established community; Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to, the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect; and/or Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plans. During preparation of the Initial Study, impacts associated with the first and third bullets were found to be less than significant. Please refer to Section 8.0, Effects Found Not to be Significant, for a detailed explanation IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES CONSISTENCY WITH CITY OF LANCASTER 2020 GENERAL PLAN The proposed project would be consistent with the applicable objectives, policies and specific actions of the City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan. Impact Analysis: The DLSP area is currently designated Commercial, Light Industrial, Public, Urban Residential and Medium Density Residential. Adoption of the DLSP would change the existing land use designation from Commercial, Light Industrial, Public, Urban Residential and Medium Density Residential to Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan (DLSP). The DLSP would serve as both the City s policy statement regarding development of the project area, as well as a tool to implement the provisions of the General Plan as it applies to the 2 Jacob Leib, Manger Environmental Division, Southern California Association of Governments, August 10, Refer to Appendix B, Notice of Preparation Responses. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

16 project area. Per California Government Code Section 65451, Specific Plans are permitted to regulate site development, including permitted uses, densities, community design and building size and placement. Specific Plans also govern the type and extent of open space, landscaping and roadways, and the provision of infrastructure and utilities. Because the development guidelines established in a Specific Plan focus on the unique needs of a specific area, Specific Plans allow greater flexibility than is possible with conventional zoning. Specific Plans must be compatible with the goals and policies of the adopted General Plan of local jurisdictions. The General Plan contains numerous Policies and Specific Actions to guide development and uses planned within the City. Table 5.1-4, Consistency Analysis - General Plan, provides a detailed analysis of the proposed project s consistency with the policies and specific actions of the General Plan. For the purposes of this consistency analysis, only those policies and specific actions that are applicable to the proposed project are included in Table As is evidenced by the discussion presented in Table 5.1-4, the proposed project would be in compliance with the relevant policies and specific actions of the Lancaster General Plan. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant in this regard. City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) Table Consistency Analysis - General Plan PLAN FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Water Resources P 3.1.1: Ensure that development does not adversely affect the groundwater basin. SA 3.1.1(a): Work with Los Angeles County to require that all development projects within the City and its sphere of influence comply with discharge permit requirements established by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. SA 3.1.1(b): Through the development review process, evaluate proposals to identify potential negative impacts on existing watershed areas and to ensure inclusion of appropriate mitigation measures. Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.10, Hydrology and Water Quality, future development within the DLSP area would be required to conform to the requirements of an approved Stormwater Pollution Prevent Plan and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, including implementation of recommended Best Management Practices. Additionally, future Applicants shall complete a Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) to include Nonstructural/Source Control and Structural/Treatment Best Management Practices to conform to the City s Storm Water Management Plan and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit. Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.10, Hydrology and Water Quality, implementation of the proposed project would result in a slight increase in the amount of impervious areas within the project area. With implementation of mitigation requiring a hydraulic analysis of the Lancaster Boulevard storm drain and implementation of any identified improvements to ensure adequate capacity in the storm drain exits prior to development, impacts would be reduced to a less than significant level. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

17 City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) SA 3.1.1(d): To ensure that land use changes will not increase the demand on the local groundwater basin, the applicants for all General Plan and zoning ordinance amendments shall provide a factual statement of: Current Water Demand; Proposed Water Demand; Potential Conservation; and Water from New Sources. Table [continued] Consistency Analysis - General Plan Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.7, Public Services and Utilities, a Water and Wastewater Utility Plan was completed for the DLSP identifying current and proposed water demand. Additionally, a water supply assessment was conducted to determine the availability of water to serve the proposed project, which includes identifying conservation measures and the availability of water from new sources. Individual development projects would be required to coordinate with District 40 to ensure that available water supply would be available to serve the development. Water Consumption P 3.2.1: Reduce the per capita rate of water consumption in the City of Lancaster. SA 3.2.1(b): Through the landscape plan check process, require the provision of drought-tolerant landscaping and Consistent. Design guidelines in the proposed DLSP seek to reduce the water consumption of landscaped areas and water-saving irrigation systems for new residential, provide opportunities for compact development envelopes. commercial and industrial developments in accordance with the requirements of Ordinance No P 3.2.2: Consider the potential impact of new development projects on the existing water supply. SA 3.2.2(a): As part of the CEQA review process, evaluate potential water consumption of proposed uses which consume very large quantities of water, considering ways in which water usage can be reduced and applying appropriate mitigation measures. SA 3.2.2(b): Ensure that any proposed increase in General Plan land use intensity and any proposed development subject to Policy does not reduce water supply available to future development. Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.7, Public Services and Utilities, a Water and Wastewater Utility Plan was completed for the DLSP identifying current and proposed water demand. Additionally, a water supply assessment was conducted to determine the availability of water to serve the proposed project, which includes identifying conservation measures and the availability of water from new sources. Individual development projects would be required to coordinate with District 40 to ensure that available water supply would be available to serve the development. Mitigation measures have been identified to reduce potential impacts to water supply and distribution systems. However, due to the inability to determine or guarantee that adequate water supply would be available for the proposed project, impacts to water supply are considered significant and unavoidable. Consistent. Refer to Response to SA 3.2.2(a). Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

18 City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) Table [continued] Consistency Analysis - General Plan Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement Air Resources P 3.3.3: Minimize air pollutant emissions generated by new and existing development. SA 3.3.3(a): Through the environmental review process, evaluate proposed land uses, which could contribute significantly to air quality degradation (heavy manufacturing, e.g.) and require mitigation measures to reduce their emissions; or if the impacts cannot be mitigated, prohibit their development. Consistent. The project does not propose industrial or heavy manufacturing uses within the downtown. Proposed uses include residential, office/civic/public and retail/service uses. Section 5.4, Air Quality, analyzes the potential air quality impacts from implementation of the DLSP. Current detailed construction plans for the proposed project are not available. However, based on the size of the project, the anticipated construction activities, and guidance from the Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District, the proposed project would result in significant short-term air quality impacts. Despite the implementation of mitigation measures, construction related impacts would be significant and unavoidable. Therefore, the proposed project would be significant and unavoidable for both short-term construction and cumulative construction impacts. Additionally, as discussed under the Long-Term Operational Impacts discussion, the proposed project would result in exceedances of Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District standards for VOCs and PM10. Long-term impacts would further result in cumulative regional operational impacts. Therefore, the proposed project would be significant and unavoidable for long-term operational, plan consistency, and operational cumulative impacts. If the City of Lancaster approves the project, the City shall be required to adopt findings in accordance with Section of the CEQA Guidelines and prepare a Statement of Overriding Considerations in accordance with Section of the CEQA Guidelines. P 3.3.4: Protect sensitive uses, homes, schools and medical facilities, from the impacts of air pollution. SA 3.3.4(a): Through the Development Review process, ensure that potential stationary air pollution sources do not conflict with residential areas and other sensitive receptors. Consistent. Section 5.4, Air Quality, analyzes the potential air quality impacts from implementation of the DLSP. An analysis of area source emissions was conducted. With the exception of VOC emissions, area source emissions alone would not exceed established AVAQMD thresholds. However, the area source emissions were composed of sources such as consumer products and landscape maintenance. The project would not result in emissions from a stationary source, as identified by the AVAPCD. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

19 City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) Table [continued] Consistency Analysis - General Plan Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement Biological Resources P 3.4.5: Ensure that development proposals, including City sponsored projects, are analyzed for short- and long-term impacts to biological resources and that appropriate mitigation measures are implemented. SA 3.4.5(a): Regularly monitor and review developments proposed within or adjacent to the City's sphere of influence but outside of the City limits. The purpose of this review will be to assess potential impacts on local biological resources and to recommend measures that the appropriate agency can implement to mitigate the impacts. Consistent. As indicated in Section 10.0, Effects Found Not to be Significant, the project is located within an urbanized area of the City. No special status plant or animals species exist in the local vicinity due to the level of past disturbance and non-native plant species in the area. Future development of the DLSP would not significantly impact biological resources. Land Resources P 3.5.1: Minimize erosion problems resulting from development activities. SA 3.5.1(a): Concurrent with the submittal of a grading plan, require the submittal and approval by the appropriate City departments of erosion control plans prior to the approval of the grading plan. Erosion control plans shall be prepared and shall cover all areas impacted by the proposed grading. The erosion control plans shall address methods of Consistent. As indicated in Section 10.0, Effects Found Not to be Significant, clearing and grading for construction may expose soils to short-term wind and water erosion. However, implementation of erosion control measures as required by the City and adherences to all requirements set forth in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for construction activities would be required for all new control (i.e. detention basins, check dams, construction in the DLSP area. Due to soil characteristics in sandbagging, etc.) and interim storm drain construction if required. the vicinity of the project and compliance to measures required by the City and Federal government, potential impacts would result in less than significant. SA 3.5.1(c): Require implementation of erosion control Consistent. Refer to Response SA 3.5.1(a). measures as soon as possible during the grading operation and require that they remain in operation until improvement construction has begun within the controlled area. SA 3.5.1(e): Require that grading plans include appropriate and feasible measures to minimize fugitive dust. Potential measures include: Regular watering of cleared areas. Minimizing the extent of cleared areas at any given time. Establishing of vegetative cover as soon as possible after grading is completed. Using soil tackifiers, soils stabilization mulches and/or oil emulsions, where feasible. Consistent. Section 5.4, Air Quality, analyzes the potential air quality impacts from implementation of the DLSP. As current detailed construction plans for the proposed project are not available, a qualitative analysis of air quality impacts was conducted. Mitigation measures, have been identified that would reduce fugitive dust emissions from project construction activities. However, it should be noted that due to the size of the project and associated construction activities, construction impacts would remain significant and unavoidable. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

20 City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) Table [continued] Consistency Analysis - General Plan Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement P 3.5.2: Since certain soils in the Lancaster study area have exhibited shrink-swell behavior and a potential for fissuring and subsidence may exist in other areas, minimize the potential for damage resulting from the occurrence of soils movement. SA 3.5.2(a): As part of the environmental review process, require the applicant to prepare geotechnical/soils studies evaluating the shrink-swell potential of soils and the potential Consistent. As indicated in Section 10.0, Effects Found Not to be Significant, the project site has not been identified as a geologic unit that is unstable, and based upon available for fissuring or subsidence. If necessary, require references, would not become unstable as a result of project implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. implementation. Most of the City of Lancaster is characterized by soils of low shrink-swell potential, as delineated by the Soil Conservation Service. The DLSP area is located in a location where no data is available; however, it is surrounded by low shrink-swell potential and likely contains similar characteristics. A low potential does not represent a problem for foundation construction. Additionally, all development would be designed in compliance with applicable building codes, reducing impacts to a less than significant level. As site-specific development projects are proposed within the DLSP area, the City would review the need for the applicant to prepared site-specific geotechnical/soils studies. Energy Resources P 3.6.1: Reduce energy consumption by establishing land use patterns which would decrease automobile travel. SA 3.6.1(a): Require the inclusion, where feasible, of provisions for energy efficient modes of transportation and fixed facilities, which establish transit, bicycle, equestrian, and pedestrian modes as desirable alternatives. Consistent. The proposed project would involve the placement of residential, retail, office civic and public uses in proximity to the existing Metrolink Station and AVTA bus routes. Additionally, the project proposes a mix of uses in proximity to each other with improved plazas, pedestrian walkways and courtyards, encouraging pedestrian activity. Scenic Resources P 3.8.1: Preserve views of surrounding ridgelines, slope areas and hilltops, as well as other scenic vistas. SA 3.8.1(a): Encourage the creation of vistas and view Consistent. As individual development projects are corridors of community or neighborhood value during the submitted, the siting of buildings to avoid blocking views and development review process, through the siting of buildings view corridors would be reviewed by the City during the to avoid blocking views and view corridors. development review process. Additionally, the DLSP Regulating Code requires that maximum heights of buildings be stepped down adjacent to proposed lower maximum floors, providing for more visibility on the upper floors. PLAN FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY Geology and Seismicity P 4.1.2: Require development within hillside areas and areas which potentially have soils or underlying formations that might produce severe building constraints to have engineering studies performed in order to determine appropriate structural design criteria and effective construction standards. SA 4.1.2(a): Require specialized soils reports in areas Consistent. Refer to Response SA 3.5.1(a). suspected of having problems with bearing strength and in areas suspected of having problems with expansive soils, soil settlement and subsidence. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning

21 City of Lancaster 2020 General Plan Policies (P) and Specific Actions (SA) Table [continued] Consistency Analysis - General Plan Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan Consistency Statement Flooding and Drainage P 4.2.1: Manage flood hazards to ensure an acceptable level of risk and to facilitate rapid physical and economic recovery following a flood through the identification and recognition of potentially hazardous conditions and implementation of effective standards for location and construction of development. SA 4.2.1(c): Ensure that no structure designed for human occupancy is constructed within the 100-year floodplain without being raised at a minimum, one foot above the floodplain. Retain undeveloped or vacant land within 100- year floodplains as very low density rural uses or open space where plans for construction of flood control facilities are absent. SA 4.2.1(d): Require, as a prerequisite to development approval within the 100-year floodplain, that information be submitted by a qualified civil or hydrological engineer certifying the 100-year level. SA 4.2.1(e): Require, as a prerequisite to development approval, that drainage studies identify the facilities which are required to ensure that proposed development is adequately protected and that such development will not create or increase downstream or upstream flood hazards. Consistent. As indicated in Section 10.0, Effects Found Not to be Significant, according to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the DLSP area is located in Zone B, which is defined by FEMA as an area outside of the 100-year floodplain. Consistent. Refer to Response SA 4.2.1(c). Consistent. Refer to Response SA 3.1.1(b). SA 4.2.1(g): Require that street and storm drain flood Consistent. Refer to Response SA 3.1.1(b). control systems be designed to accommodate identified storm flows. Noise P 4.3.1: Ensure that noise-sensitive land uses and noise generators are located and designed in such a manner that City noise objectives will be achieved. SA 4.3.1(a): Where new development is proposed for areas within which the exterior or interior noise levels outlined in Table III-1 of Objective 4.3 of the General Plan are likely to be exceeded by existing or planned land uses, require a detailed noise attenuation study to be prepared by a qualified acoustical engineer, in order to determine appropriate mitigation and ways to incorporate such mitigation into project design. SA 4.3.1(b): Enforce California Noise Insulation Standards which apply to new multiple family development within a 60 CNEL noise contour adjacent to roads, transit lines and manufacturing areas to ensure that the units have been designed to limit interior noise levels in habitable rooms to 45 CNEL with doors and windows closed. Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.5, Noise, as sitespecific development occurs within the DLSP area, projectspecific noise analysis would be required to determine and identify standards to ensure noise levels would be met. Consistent. As indicated in Section 5.5, Noise, prior to residential development along Avenue I, Avenue J, Lancaster Boulevard and Sierra Highway, an acoustical noise analysis shall be prepared to ensure that exterior and interior noise levels are met. Additionally, for developments located adjacent to the Union Pacific Railroad, an acoustical analysis shall be prepared to fully analyze and develop standards to ensure that exterior and interior noise levels would be attenuated. Final August Land Use and Relevant Planning