HomeMy WebLinkAbout200-91RESOLUTION NO. 200-91.
ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECIARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE
FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT GPA 91-6 AND APPROVING GPA 91-6 -
ESTABLISHING A GROWTH MANAGEMENT ELEMENT AS AN OPTIONAL
ELEMENT TO THE DANVILLE GENERAL PLAN
WHEREAS, in August, 1988, Contra Costa County residents approved Measure C - the
"Contra Costa Transportation Improvement and Growth Management Program"
authorizing the collection of an additional one-half cent in sales tax in Contra Costa
County; and
WHEREAS, a percentage of the Measure C monies collected (18%) are to be returned to
local jurisdictions for use in a variety of transportation related improvements; and
WHEREAS, in order to receive these funds cities must prepare a separate Growth
Management Element (Element) of the General Plan to address the impacts of growth;
WHEREAS, Section 65350 et. seq. of the Government Code of the State of California
prescribes the procedure for adopting and amending the general plans; and
WHEREAS, at their meeting of June 5, 1989, the Danville Town Council adopted
Resolution No. 70-89 indicating the Town's intent to comply with the growth management
program requirements contained within Measure C, thereby allowing the Town to qualify
for local street maintenance and improvement funding (i.e., the return to source portion
of Measure C funds); and
WHEREAS, the Growth Management Committee established as part of the Town Forum
process in 1990 examined key issues and solutions relating to growth management and
reported to the Town Council on April 19, 1990; and
WHEREAS, the Danville Planning Commission and Town Council held joint study
sessions on January 8, and January 15, 1991, to discuss the Town's present approaches
to growth management related issues (and to discuss the philosophical basis of that
approach) and to consider options/obligations for the future in the area of growth
management; and
WHEREAS, direction provided to staff at the second study session included the following;
The Growth Management Advisory Committee to be established to aid the
preparation of the Element should not set out to "reinvent" the General Plan.
Because of the detail and scope of the Danville 2005 General Plan, a
PAGE NO. 1 RESOLUTION NO. 200-91
majority of the optional topics for the Element (as outlined by Measure C
materials generated by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority) have
already been addressed in detail.
b. In preparing the Element, the advisory committee should;
"revisit" growth management issues previously addressed in the
Danville 2005 General Plan, and
"revisit" the question of "who do we want to be?"; and
WHEREAS, at their meeting of February 5, 1991, the Danville Town Council adopted
Resolution No. 38-91 authorizing the formation of a Growth Management Advisory
Committee to assist with the preparation of the Element; and
WHEREAS, the Growth Management Advisory Committee met nine times between March
and September, 1991 to refine the March 21, 1991 administrative draft of the Element
prepared by staff; and
WHEREAS, opportunities for public participation in the preparation of the Element
occurred with the community meeting conducted by the Growth Management Advisory
Committee (September 19, 1991); and
WHEREAS, public comment and input was also solicited through the circulation of the
environmental documentation (Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance) prior
to the Planning Commission's consideration of the Element; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did review the Element at noticed public hearings
on September 24, 1991 and October 8 and 22, 1991; and
WHEREAS, the public notice of these hearings was given in all respects as required by
law; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, after accepting the Element from the Growth
Management Advisory Committee, and conducting public hearings to receive input on the
Element, adopted Planning Commission Resolution No. 91-44 recommending the Town
Council adopt a Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance for General Plan
Amendment GPA 91-6 and approve GPA 91-6 - establishing a Growth Management
Element as an optional element to the Danville General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council did review the Elem. ent at noticed public hearings on
November 6, 1991 and November 19, 1991; and
PAGE NO. 2 RESOLUTION NO. 200-91
WHEREAS, the public notice of the hearings was given in all respects as required by law;
and
WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance has been prepared and
circulated for the Element, indicating that no significant environmental impacts are
anticipated to be associated with the adoption of the Element; and
WHEREAS, a staff report was submitted recommending that the Town Council accept the
Planning Commission's recommendation and adopt the Negative Declaration of
Environmental Significance for General Plan Amendment GPA 91-6 and approve GPA 91-6
- establishing a Growth Management Element as an optional element to the Danville
General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council did hear and consider all reports, recommendations, and
testimony submitted in writing and presented at the hearing; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED THAT the Town Council of the Town of Danville adopts the Negative
Declaration of Environmental Significance prepared for GPA 91-6 makes the following
findings in support of that action:
The Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance prepared for GPA 91-6
fully and adequately addresses potential environmental impacts associated with the
adoption of the Growth Management Element, satisfying the requirements of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
,
On the basis of the Initial Study of Environmental Impacts, there is no evidence
that the adoption of the Element will have a significant effect on the environment.
There is no evidence before the Town that adoption of the Element will have any
potential for adverse effect on wildlife resources; and be it further
RESOLVED THAT the Town Council of the Town of Danville approves General Plan
Amendment GPA 91-5, establishing a Growth Management Element as a new element to
the Danville General Plan, and makes the following findings in support of that action:
The adoption of the Growth Management Element as an optional element to the
Danville General Plan, when coupled with the recommended revisions and
refinements to the existing General Plan, is consistent with the Danville 2005
General Plan.
,
The General Plan Amendment will not adversely affect the preservation of present
aesthetics and other community qualities, conversely is has instead the potential to
PAGE NO. 3 RESOLUTION NO. 200-91
enhance and enrich the community by assuring the establishment of a
comprehensive, long-range program that will match the demands for new
development with plans, capital improvement programs, development mitigation
programs and financing mechanisms.
The General Plan Amendment will enhance the Town's ability to maintain high°
quality public facilities and services.
The General Plan Amendment will not adversely affect the quality of life within
existing developed areas of the community.
,
The General Plan Amendment will not adversely affect the harmony between
Danville's development and it's physical setting; and be it further
RESOLVED THAT the Town Council of the Town of Danville amends policies 1.02, 2.02,
9.02 and 11.03 of the Danville 2005 General Plan to remove inconsistencies and/or
conflicts between the Growth Management Element and the rest of the general plan (with
the revised language reflected in Attachment A of this resolution)
APPROVED by the Danville Town Council at a Regular Meeting held on November 19,
1991, by the following vote:
AYES:
Greenberg, Lane, Ritchey, Schlendorf and Shimansky
NOES:
ABSTAINED:
ABSENT:
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
gmetcres.nl9
ATTEST:
City Clerk
PAGE NO. 4 RESOLUTION NO. 200-91
ATTACHMENT A- RESOLUTION NO. 200-91
Revisions to the Danville 2005 General Plan to eliminate inconsistencies and/or
conflicts between the Growth Management
Element and the remainder of the General Plan
Policy 1.02 - Allow new development based on the project's demonstration of a plan for
full public services (parks, fire, police, sanitary sewer facilities, water and flood control)
to which all providers are committed and where service can be assured in a timely
manner.
Policy 2.02 - Future land use changes in the Tassajara and Dougherty Valley Area should
be directly linked to a rational growth management plan which establishes acceptable
levels of service for required infrastructure and public services and provides for the
financing and maintenance of these facilities and services.
Policy 9.02 - Plan for the acquisition and development of new park and recreation
facilities which maintain the parkland performance standard and seek to achieve
community and neighborhood parkland goals. The Town shall seek a balance between
active and passive recreation facilities.
Policy 11.03 - Achieve and maintain a minimum operating level of service at mid-range
"D" or better, on arterials, collectors, and intersections during the peak hours.
attA200.91
GROWTH MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
(Adopted November 19, 1991)
PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY
Purpose and Intent
A major underlying principle of Danville's General Plan is the directlye that growth must
be balanced with the provision of services. This philosophy, and the goals, objectives
and performance standards set forth in the Growth Management Element, are the starting
points for land use decisions in Danville. This Element establishes policies and
standards for traffic Levels of Service and performance standards for parks, fire, police,
sanitary sewer facilities, water and flood control in order to ensure that public facilities
and programs are provided consistent with adopted standards.
The Town is neither trying to speed or delay growth within its Planning Area, but, by
adopting and implementing this Element, the Town is indicating its intent to establish a
comprehensive, long-range program that will match the demands for new development
with plans, capital improvement programs, development mitigation programs and
financing mechanisms. This Element is intended to insure that economic and population
growth is delivered in a manner consistent with the socioeconomic character of the
Town of Danville as expressed in Comprehensive General Plan Goals 2 and 3 in the
Danville 2005 General Plan (see Section 1.3 of this Element).
In August, 1988, Contra Costa County residents approved Measure C, the "Contra Costa
Transportation Improvement and Growth Management Program." Passage of Measure
C authorized the collection of an additional one-half cent in sales tax on sales in Contra
Costa County. A percentage of the monies collected (18%) are to be returned to local
jurisdictions for use in a variety of transportation related improvements. To receive
these funds the Town must prepare and adopt a separate Growth Management Element
which addresses the impacts of growth. In addition, the Town must do the following:
Prepare a separate Growth Management Element of the General Plan to address the
impacts of growth;
Establish a commitment to manage congestion by adopting and applying traffic
service standards which will be generally required on streets, roads and regional
routes;
Specify and adopt performance standards which will be met as the Town grows
for parks, fire, police, sanitary sewer facilities, water and flood control;
1.2
1.3
· Adopt a Transportation Demand Management Program;
Anticipate needed investments by adopting a five-year Capital Improvement
Program that lists projects, project descriptions, their costs and funding
mechanisms;
Ensure that new development "pays its own way" through mitigation and fee
programs;
Reduce the number and/or length of automobile commute trips by addressing
housing options and job opportunities at the local, regional and county-wide
level.
Danville's Growth Management Element incorporates the above-described requirements
and augments the minimum Measure C requirements with additional requirements and
controls. Implementation measures related to specific policies include a variety of
monitoring efforts. Compliance with all parts of the Measure C Growth Management
Program is required by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority annually. To keep the
Element contemporary, this annum review shall not be limited to the Compliance
Reporting Checklist to be submitted to the Authority.
Authority
The Growth Management Element is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to local
jurisdictions by Section 65303 of the Government Code of the State of California, which
states:
"The general plan may include any other elements or address any other subjects
which, in the judgement of the legislative body, relate to the physical development
of the county or city."
The Growth Management Element also is consistent with the requirements of Measure
C.
Relations to Other General Plan Elements
All General Plan Elements, whether required or optional, have equal status. Policies
throughout the General Plan must be internally consistent. Policies established with the
adoption of this Element will not supersede existing policies and/or standards in the
Danville 2005 General Plan. Where inconsistences or conflicts are created, they will be
addressed by a parallel amendment to the existing general plan.
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1.4
The following is a listing of major policies found elsewhere in the Danville 2005 General
Plan that pertain to growth management efforts:
Couple orderly and appropriate growth in Danville with the ability to maintain
high quality public facilities and services. (Comprehensive General Plan Goals -
Goal 2)
Protect the quality of life within existing areas of the community. (Comprehensive
General Plan Goals - Goal 3)
Assure that future development complements Danville's existing small-town
character and established way of life in a manner commensurate with established
municipal service standards. (Goal 1)
Allow new development based on the project's demonstration of a plan for full
public services (parks, fire, police, sanitary sewer facilities, water and flood
control) to which all providers are committed and where service can be assured
in a timely manner. (Amends Policy 1.02 - as established in the Danville 2005
General Plan adopted on October 5, 1987)
Public Involvement
The Growth Management Committee of the Town Forum examined key issues and
solutions relating to the Town of Danville and reported to the Town Council on April
19, 1990.
Two public study sessions, involving the Town Council and the Planning Commission
and interested citizens, were held in January, 1991 to develop a work plan for the
development of a Growth Management Element. Resolution No. 38-91, passed by the
Town Council in February, 1991 following an opportunity for public input, established
the Growth Management Advisory Committee and established the charge for the
Committee.
The Growth Management Advisory Committee met nine times between March and
September, 1991 to refine the March 21, 1991 administrative draft of the Growth
Management Element.
Opportunities for public participation in the preparation of the Growth Management
Element occurred with the community meeting conducted by the Growth Management
Advisory Committee (September 19, 1991) and the public hearings on the draft Element
before both the Planning Commission (September 24, 1991, October 8, 1991 and
October 22, 1991) and the Town Council (November 6, 1991 and November 19, 1991).
Public comment and input was also solicited through the circulation of the
1.5
environmental documentation (Negative Declaration of Environmental Significance) prior
to the adoption of the Element.
Organization of Element
The Element establishes traffic Level of Services standards in Section 2 and other
performance standards in Section 3. All performance objectives, performance standards
and implementing policies are numbered sequentially, with the first number referring
to the section and the second number to the subsection. For example, Policy 3.3.A. is
the first service area considered in the third subsection of Section 3. This numbering
system is intended to facilitate citations and references. Where a goal or policy used in
this Element also appears in the Danville 2005 General Plan document, its identification
in the Danville 2005 General Plan is indicated at the end of the goal or policy.
TRAFFIC SERVICE STANDARDS AND PROGRAMS
Introduction
The San Ramon Valley has become a focus of major development activity. The rural
character of the valley has been altered - but, within this context of change, Danville has
sought, and continues to seek, to preserve the amenities that have made this a desirable
place to live.
The transportation system in Danville is dominated by the 1-680 freeway. Traffic demand
in the 1-680 corridor is projected to grow by as much as 50% during the next 15-year
period, requiring additional widening of the freeway and improvement of freeway
interchanges. Even assuming increased use of public transportation and implementation
of transportation demand management programs, it is projected that traffic congestion
on 1-680 will be a constraint to continued development in the area. Regional traffic on
1-680 will cause increased congestion on surface streets in Danville, as traffic is diverted
from the freeway. The traffic volumes and congestion will also increase noise and air
pollution. For all these reasons, automobile traffic poses the greatest threat to the
socioeconomic and environmental character of the community.
A major theme of Danville's General Plan is to protect and enhance aesthetic features.
Implementation measures have included the preparation of Design Guidelines, the
adoption of the Scenic Hillside and Major Ridgeline Protection Ordinance, and adoption
of streetscape guidelines for the Sycamore Valley corridor (to protect the high visual
amenity/quality).
Sycamore Valley Road and that section of Camino Tassajara extending from Sycamore
Valley Road to the easterly Town limits (i.e., the four-lane roadways developed as part
of the Sycamore Valley Assessment District) were sized to correspond with the projected
4
build-out traffic demands. Specifically, the right-of-way width, ancillary landscape
treatment, pedestrian and bicycle trails and the road pavement section were sized to
assure that the "environmental" carrying capacity of the roadways would not be
exceeded. Both Sycamore Valley Road and Camino Tassajara are designated as scenic
routes.
Adding significant additional amounts of traffic to these roadways and/or widening the
roadway sections to a six-lane section would adversely affect the quality of life of the
adjoining residential areas without delivery of a .corresponding package of significant
mitigation measures. Coordination of physical improvements such as the architectural
sound-wall and ancillary landscaping would be cornpromised since they were designed
for a four-lane roadway section.
In the case of road widening, if the widening occurred in a manner that replaced existing
full width lanes with narrower travel lanes and/or resulted in the elimination of existing
deceleration/acceleration lanes, there could also be a reduction in the traffic safety of
the traffic corridor.
Changing over to a six-lane width and pulling traffic closer to the edge of rights-of-way
would raise the physical carrying capacity of the arterial an additional 20,000 +/-
average daily trips (ADTs) per day resulting in a probable violation of the adopted noise
standards for arterials (see Chapter 6 "Resources & Hazards" of the Danville 2005
General Plan). Additionally, the air quality impacts which would result from going from
30,000+/- ADTs (carrying capacity for a four-lane width roadway) to a six-lane width
roadway with carrying capacity of 50,000+/- ADTs per day could result in an
unacceptable diminishment of quality-of-life in these corridors.
It has been established through previous traffic studies that the build-out capacity of the
approach intersections to 1-680, as well as 1-680 itself, most likely would not be able to
accommodate the traffic loading that would occur if current four-lane width roadway
within the Town were converted to six-lane width roadways and their ADT levels
increased to approach the physical limits of a six-lane width roadway.
The road sections developed through SVAD were designed with a balance between the
areas devoted to travel lanes and the areas developed as buffer landscaping. These
property owners are paying for assessments of $16+ million for the roadway and other
infrastructure improvements that are currently in place; and which include full-sized
road sections with generous buffer landscaping and an extensive pedestrian and bicycle
trail network.
A number of aesthetic impacts would result from modifying the planned character of
these arterials if they were modified to a six-lane width roadway, including:
- elimination of the open landscape buffer as a mitigation to high traffic volumes;
5
2.2
- reduction of landscaping which relates the area to its physical surroundings;
- function and aesthetic value of the two tiered off-sweet bicycle lane system and
the on-street bicycle route would be impacted.
While it is acknowledged that it would appear to be inappropriate to widen the arterials
within the Town to a six-lane width due to the impacts to adjoining residential
properties, it is equally acknowledged that the future economic vitality of the Town may
in part be linked to reserving capacity in the existing four-lane arterials to accommodate
future development within the Town (including its ultimate 20-year service area). For
the eastern side of Town this is especially pertinent. Two policies in the Danville 2005
General Plan speak to review of Danville's Planning Area and Sphere of Influence.
Those policies are as follows:
Re-evaluate and seek redesignation of Danville's Planning Area and Sphere of Influence
to insure maximum control over land use decisions which directly affect the existing
community. (Policy 2.04)
Seek to extend Danville's Sphere of Influence to reflect the community's long term
interests, as well as the likely extension of urban services. (Policy 6.02)
The discussion above should serve as the framework for the traffic service objectives for
Action Plans established for Danville roadways designated as Routes of Regional
Significance.
Performance Goals
This section identifies the major policies found elsewhere in the General Plan pertaining
to traffic and circulation.
Provide for safe and efficient vehicular movement on Town of Danville streets.
(Goal 11)
Bo
Maintain a balance between land use development and the capacity of the
transportation system. (Policy 11.05)
C. Minimize the intrusion of through traffic on residential streets. (Goal 13)
Improve major collectors and arterials to a high level of service in order to
minimize through traffic on residential streets. (Policy 13.02)
6
,,, 2.3
Standards and Related Policies
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority has established acceptable levels of service
for rural, semi-rural, suburban, urban, and central business district land use
designations.
With adoption of Town Council Resolution No. 236-89, the Town adopted the Authority
standards in modified form. Resolution No. 236-89 modified the "Urban" definition to
mean mid-range Level of Service D, with a corresponding volume-to-capacity (V/C) ratio
of 0.83 to 0.87. With that modification, the adopted traffic Level of Service standards are
as follows:
Land Use
Level of Service (LOS)
Range of Volume-to-Capacity (V/C) Ratios
Rural Low C 70 - 74
Semi-Rural High C 75 - 79
Suburban Low D 80 - 84
Urban Mid-range D 83 - 87
Central Business District Low E 90 - 94
Attachment B provides the street system classification for Danville, corresponding to these land use designations.
Performance Standard - Achieve and maintain a minimum operating level of
service at mid-range "D", or better, on arterials, collectors and intersections during
peak hours. (Amends Policy 11.03 - as established in the Danville 2005 General
Plan adopted on October 5, 1987)
Routes of Regional Significance - The list on Attachment A shows the Routes of
Regional Significance that have been designated by Danville in cooperation with
the South West Transportation Committee SWAT and the Contra Costa
Transportation Authority. Danville will participate with both agencies in
developing Action Plans for each of these identified Routes of Regional
Significance.
Basic Routes - All roads not designated on the list on Attachment A are Basic
Routes. Basic routes and land use designations are shown on Attachment B.
Application of standards. The volume-to-capacity V/C ratio 0.83 to 0.87 applies
to all signalized intersections on Basic Routes. Level of Service Standards are
considered to be met if:
Measurement of actual conditions at the intersection indicates that the
operations are equivalent to, or better than, those specified in the standard;
OF
7
2.4
ii.
The five-year Capital Improvement Program of the Town of Danville
includes projects which, when constructed, will result in operations better
than, or equivalent to, those specified in the standard.
Findings of Special Circumstance. For any Basic Route signalized intersection that
will not meet Level of Service standards as described in Policy 2.3.D. above, the
Town of Danville may request, and the Authority may make Findings of Special
Circumstances, as described in Policy 2.4.D. The current listing of Intersections
Subject to Findings of Special Circumstances is contained in Table 4.
Implementing Policies and Programs
Local Development Mitigation Program - Pursuant to Policy 7.01 of the Danville
2005 General Plan, the Town shall require new development to pay its fair share
of the cost of new civic and community facilities, based upon the impacts which
may be attributed to that development. A development mitigation program shall
be developed, adopted and implemented. In terms of mitigation measures, it is
recognized that given existing land uses and the present circulation network,
emphasis will necessarily be on land use changes as opposed to a dependency on
capital improvements. The mitigation program shall include an expansion of the
existing Residential Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP) and the
Commercial Transportation Improvement Program (CTIP), consistent with the
requirements of Government Code 66000 et seq., to assure that future
development projects pay the costs necessary to mitigate impacts on the local and
regional transportation system. A periodic review of the RTIP and CTIP fee
schedules shall be conducted. Review of future development projects, as directed
by Policy 11.01 of the Danville 2005 General Plan, shall reflect coordination of
future arterial streets and major collectors in concert with existing and future land
uses in Danville. Physical changes and traffic control devices to discourage
through traffic on residential streets shall be considered in detail during the
review of future development projects (as directed by Policy 13.01 of the Danville
2005 General Plan).
Local Street Maintenance and Improvement Funds - Transportation projects
implemented to meet, or maintain, adopted Level of Service standards, to
implement Action Plans for Regional Routes , and to provide mitigation for
intersections subject to Findings of Special Circumstances, may be funded
through use of Local Street Improvement and Maintenance Funds (return to
source funds) allocated by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority. In no case
shall return to source funds replace private developer funding for transportation
projects determined to be required for new growth to meet or maintain
standards. Return to source funds may be used for transportation planning
and/or for maintenance and rehabilitation projects not directly related
8
to attainment of the standards outlined in this Element when these projects meet
the overall goals of this Element and the Danville 2005 General Plan.
Achieving Level of Service Standards - In the event that any Basic Route signalized
intersection does not meet adopted standards, the Town will, in order to attain
the standards specified in Section 2.3.D. above, consider amendments to the
General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Capital Improvement Program and/or other
relevant plans and policies.
Findings of Special Circumstances - If such amendments as described in Section
2.4.C. above are not possible or feasible for reasons discussed as "Criteria for
Findings of Special Circumstances" in materials published by the Contra Costa
Transportation Authority (see Attachment B) , the Town may prepare a request for
Findings of Special Circumstances for submittal, consistent with the prescribed
procedure, to the Authority. The request shall include identification of alternative
standards and proposed mitigation measures and programs.
Capital Improvement Program - Capital projects sponsored by the Town and
necessary to maintain and improve traffic operations will be included in the five-
year Capital Improvement Program. Funding sources for such projects, as well
as intended phasing, shall be generally identified in the Capital Improvement
Program. As directed by Policy 11.04 of the Danville 2005 General Plan, the
physical and operational improvements made to improve roadway and
intersection capacity shall be done in a manner consistent with the need to
preserve the character of residential streets.
Multi-jurisdictional Transportation Planning - The Town shall participate, in a pro-
active leadership role, in multi-jurisdictional transportation planning by
participating in activities of the Southwest Area Transportation Committee - SWAT
(including development of Regional Route Action Plans and cooperating in
planning for intersections subject to Findings of Special Circumstances located in
other jurisdictions when it is determined that local actions contribute to
conditions at such intersections) and activities of the Tri-Valley Transportation
Council - TVTC (including preparation of the Tri-Valley Transportation Plan and
Action Plan for Routes of Regional Significance in the Tri~Valley Area).
Participation of other jurisdictions is required to maintain traffic service objectives
for the designated Routes of Regional Significance. As directed by Policy 14.01
of the Danville 2005 General Plan, the Town shall "Coordinate local transportation
planning with local jurisdictions and regional agencies, including identification
and evaluation of additional transportation corridors." As directed by Policy
14.02 of the Danville 2005 General Plan, the Town shall '"~7ork with other
agencies, including neighboring cities, Contra Costa County, Caltrans, and MTC
on multi-jurisdictional problems affecting Danville." Additional General Plan
9
Goals and Policies pertaining to multi-jurisdictional transportation planning
include the following:
Participate in the long-range planning for the Tassajara and Dougherty
Valley Area with the City of San Ramon and Contra Costa County to
preserve the quality of Iife currently enjoyed by Danville
residents and assure that future growth is properly managed. (Goal 2. See
also Goal 6 and Policy 6.01)
Future land use changes in the Tassajara and Dougherty Valley area should
be directly linked to a growth management plan which establishes
acceptable levels of service for critical required infrastructure and public
services and provides for the financing and maintenance of these facilities
and services. (Policy 2.02 - as established in the Danville 2005 General
Plan adopted on October 5, 1987)
Comprehensive planning, including sub-regional traffic studies and one or
more specific plans for land use changes in the Tassajara and Dougherty
Valley area, should allow adequate time for further build-out of major
developments previously approved by the Town of Danville, City of San
Ramon, and Contra Costa County (i.e., Sycamore Valley, Crow Canyon
Corridor, Canyon Lakes) in order to gauge the long range impacts of these
previously approved projects. No applications for land use changes shall
be considered until said planning is completed. (Policy 2.03)
Conflict Resolution - The Town shall participate in the Contra Costa Traffic
Authority conflict resolution process, as outlined in Section Three - Decision
Making and Conflict Resolution of the Authority's publication entitled "Growth
Management Implementation Documents", as needed to resolve disputes related
to the development and implementation of Regional Route Action Plans and other
programs described in this Element.
Implementation of Regional Route Action Plans - Following adoption of Regional
Route Action Plans by SWAT and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, the
Town shall implement specified local actions in a timely manner, consistent with
adopted Action Plans.
Transportation Demand Management - As part of its program to attain traffic
service standards, the Town will adopt and implement a Transportation Demand
Management Ordinance. In acknowledgement of Goal 12 of the Danville 2005
General Plan, the Town shall strive to provide convenient and efficient alternative
transportation modes to the automobile.
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2.5
Compliance Reporting - For purposes of reporting to the Contra Costa Traffic
Authority on compliance with the Growth Management Program, the Town shall
complete and submit a compliance checklist to the Authority. In order to monitor
compliance with adopted standards, a list of Reporting Intersections on Basic
Routes will be prepared and maintained by the Transportation Division.
Work Program - Transportation Division - As provided for in Goal 1 of the work
program for Town's Transportation Division, centralize and improve
responsiveness to traffic and transportation concerns raised by Danville residents.
Implementing Policies and Programs: Review of Development Applications
B,
Dt
Traffic Impact Study Requirements - Require traffic impact analysis for any new
development project which is estimated to generate 100 or more a.m. or p.m.
daily peak hour vehicle trips, based upon the trip generation rates as presented
in Trip Generation, 4th Edition - Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1987
(see Table 1) Analysis shall be consistent with the Technical Guidelines
published by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority.
Traffic Impact Study Methodology - Require that the calculation methodology for
the application of level of service standards be the "Planning Applications"
methodology, using "Operations and Design Method" vehicles per lane hour
capacities (or other appropriate saturation flow rates), described in
Transportation Research Circular Number 212, Interim Materials on
Highway Capacity (Transportation Research Board, 1980).
Impact/Mitigation Analysis - Require that during the review of new development
proposals, the traffic impact analysis shall determine whether a project could
cause a signalized intersection or freeway ramp to exceed the applicable Level of
Service standard and shall identify mitigation measures and/or fees so that the
intersection or ramp will operate in conformance with applicable standards. New
development proposals shall be required to comply with identified mitigation
and/or fees.
Findings of Consistency With Standards - No development project with peak-hour
vehicle trip generation rates in excess of 100 trips shall be approved unless
Findings of Consistency with the Level of Service Standards adopted in Section
2.4.D. can be made. Findings of Consistency may be made only if a traffic impact
study shows that approval of the development project will not result in violation
of adopted standards at any Basic Route signalized intersection. Exemption from
this restriction may be authorized if; 1) projects in the adopted Capital
Improvement Program will result in attainment of the standards, or 2) Findings
of Special Circumstances, including imposition of appropriate mitigation
11
measures have been adopted by the jurisdiction and the
Transportation Authority.
Con~a Costa
3.2
OTHER PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Introduction
Performance standards represent commitments to provide facilities or deliver services.
They are designed to ensure provision of full public sentices for new development and
require that development pays its fair share of the costs associated with those services.
In order to guarantee the continued availability of services to new and existing
development, the Town has adopted traffic service standards and has adopted public
facility performance standards for the following services; parks, fire, police, sanitary
sewer facilities, water and flood control. To ensure these standards, the Town will
annually review and modify these performance standards, in consultation with special
districts where appropriate, and provide continued opportunity for public comment.
The Town's 1992-1997 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program will recognize and
implement as appropriate the traffic service standards and the performance standards
for parks and police services.
Goals
The following general goal and policy statements from the Danville 2005 General Plan
apply to the provision of urban services.
Ensure that local water supply, storm drainage, sewerage, streets, and similar
facilities are maintained, improvements meet existing and future needs, and land
use decisions are contingent on the adequacy of such facilities and maintenance.
(Goal 8)
Work closely with other governmental agencies, districts and utility companies in
monitoring current and projected level of service to assure that present needs are
met and that adequate capacity is available for future development. (Policy 6.03)
Assure that costs of upgrading and constructing public facilities needed to serve
new development shall be the responsibility of the developers and not existing
residents. (Policy 8.05)
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Performance Standards
Parks
i. Goal
Provide a full range of public park, cultural, art, and recreation facilities that are
efficient, convenient to users, appropriately distributed throughout the
community, and that reinforce community identity. (Goal 9)
ii. Performance Standard
Maintain a minimum of 5.0 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents while seeking
to achieve that objective for community and neighborhood parks.
iii. Facility Analysis
With the completion Diablo Vista, Sycamore Valley and Hap Magee Ranch Parks,
the Town will have 3.35+/- acres of community park parkland per 1,000
residents (assuming a population of 35,000 at the time these facilities are
complete). Community parks as traditionally defined range from 20 to 50 acres
and serve residents within three mile radius of their homes.
At full development, the park system within the Town boundaries is envisioned
to consist of 215 +/- acres, divided into five community parks totaling 117.4 +/-
acres (or 2.8+/- acres per 1,000 residents at build-out); Town-owned open space
contiguous to community parks totaling 47+/- acres; three mini-parks totaling
2.75 +/- acres; and eight neighborhood school parks (San Ramon Valley Unified
School District-owned lands) totaling 47.75+/- acres. Assuming a build-out
population of 41,900 residents for the year 2005, this acreage would yield a ratio
of 5.2 +/- acres of public parkland per 1,000 residents.
This build-out park system will be supplemented by 1,250+/- acres of Open
Space and Wilderness lands controlled by the East Bay Regional Park District and
an extensive system of trails (most significantly including the Iron Horse Trail
along the abandoned S.P.R.R. right-of-way) within the Town's sphere of influence.
Private facilities make a significant contribution to specific recreation amenities
such as tennis courts and swimming pools owned and operated by the numerous
homeowner association groups within the Town.
If additional lands on the eastern edge of Town are annexed and developed,
consideration should be given to address the need for recreational lands
generated by such action through dedication of lands for a new community or
neighborhood park.
13
iv. Objectives
Plan for the acquisition and development of new park and
recreation facilities which maintain the parkland performance
standard and seek to achieve community and neighborhood
parkland goals and objectives. The Town shall seek a balance
between active and passive recreation facilities. (Amends Policy 9.02
- as established in the Danville 2005 General Plan as adopted on
October 7, 1987.)
Emphasize community parks as opposed to neighborhood parks.
(Policy 9.09)
v. Implementation Measures
Work closely with the San Ramon Valley Unified School District to
secure the joint use of school sites for local recreation purposes.
(Policy 9.01)
Decisions to acquire and develop Park and Recreation facilities shall
include a commitment to continuing high-quality maintenance.
(Policy 9.08)
Fire
i. Goal
Prevent catastrophic fires and minimize the loss of property and life due to fire
hazards in Danville. (Goal 19)
ii. Performance Standard
A total response time of 4 to 5 minutes for emergency calls to be met a minimum
of 90% of the time and/or a fire station within 1.5 miles of all residential and
nonresidential development.
iii. Facility Analysis
The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District serves the urbanized portions of the
Town and its Planning Area.
Two fire stations are located within the Town limits. Station 33 is located at the
intersection of Green Valley Road and Diablo Road. Station 31 is located on San
Ramon Valley Boulevard south of Sycamore Valley Road.
14
Three additional San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District stations are located in
immediate proximity to the Town and provide additional fire protection service.
Station 32 is located along Stone Valley Road immediately east of the 1-680
freeway, Station 35 is located at the north west quadrant of the intersection of
Crow Canyon Road and Blackhawk Roads (across from the Blackhawk
commercial site) and the third - serving the rural areas to the east - is Station 56
at Camino Tassajara 1/2 mile north of Highland Road.
iv. Objectives
Coordinate with San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District in
providing fire protection facilities needed to maintain or improve
existing fire protection standards. (Policy 7.08)
b,
Require special mitigation measures for fire prevention where
development is outside the fire performance standard and/or where
wild land fire hazards exist.
v. Implementation Measures
Require written verification from the San Ramon Valley Fire
Protection District, prior to project approval, of the projected
response time to project sites and the distance from existing
stations.
Police
i. Goal
The Town will maintain timely emergency response to all parts of Danville.
ii. Performance Standard
The Danville Police Department shall maintain a range of 5 to 7 minute response
time for emergency calls (priority one calls) for 90% of such calls - exclusive of
dispatch time. For all other calls a 20-minute response time, for 90% of such
calls, shall be maintained - again exclusive of dispatch time.
iii. Facility Analysis
Police protection for the Town is provided on a contract basis with the Contra
Costa County Sheriff/Coroner's Office. The force currently consists of 25 sworn
officers, no part-time officers and two secretaries. Volunteer hours totaling the
equivalent of two full-time positions per year are supplied through the reserve
15
police officers of the Contra Costa County Sheriff/Coroner's Office. The
department serves a population of roughly 31,500, which results in a ratio of one
sworn officer per 1,250 people. Dispatch services are also contracted out of the
Contra Costa County Sheriff/Corner's Office. As the Town's population increases
(the Danville 2005 General Plan projects a 2005 build-out population of 41,900),
a corresponding increase in the police work force will be necessary to maintain
current response times and the officer-to-population ratios.
iv. Objectives
a,
Protect the community from unreasonable risk associated with
criminal activities.
b. Strive to achieve/maintain quicker response times.
C,
Take lead/participate with other police departments for effective
cooperative response agreements.
v. Implementation Measures
Utilize the Transportation and Traffic Coordinating Committee to
study traffic safety issues pertaining to the use of police resources.
Sanitary Facilities
i. Goal
Ensure that adequate sewer facilities are available and that new development pays
its fair share for the collection, treatment and export facilities.
ii. Performance Standard
Verification by the appropriate sewer agency that adequate sewage collection and
waste water treatment capacity can be provided.
iii. Facility Analysis
The Town is serviced by Central Contra Costa Sanitary District - CCCSD. For
areas without sewer service the County Health Department regulates the
individual use of septic leach systems.
16
E®
iv. Objectives
a. Work with CCCSD to assure observance of their performance
standards; 1) infrastructure capacity to carry and treat 100 gallons
per capita per day for residential uses and 1,500 gallons per acre
for commercial uses, and 2) sewer mains should be designed to be
2/3 full and trunk lines designed to be 100% full.
b. Cooperate with CCCSD in developing and implementing future
master plans.
v. Implementation Measures
a. Coordinate approvals for new development with the provision of
sufficient capacity for sewage flows in the local collection system.
Water
i. Goal
Ensure an adequate water capacity system to serve existing and future residents.
ii. Performance Standard
Verification from the East Bay Municipal Water District - EBMUD, or from the
County Health Department in the case of individual wells, that adequate water
quantity, quality and distribution will be available to serve the project.
iii. Facility Analysis
Water service is provided by the EBMUD. Some areas in the Town are dependent
on wells, which are regulated by the County Health Department.
iv. Implementation Measures
a. Implement the local guidelines outlining landscape water
conservation measures.
17
3.4
F. Flood Control
i. Goal
As established by Goal 20 of the Danville 2005 General Plan, reduce the potential
for flooding and minimize the risks to life and property resulting from flooding
that does occur in Danville.
ii. Performance Standard
New development shall not exceed the Town's primary flood control channel's
ability to carry 100-year flood flows.
iii. Facility Analysis
Figure 18 of the Danville 2005 General Plan highlights the areas exposed to flood
hazard.
iv. Objectives
Take all appropriate steps in the development review process to
protect life and property from flooding that does occur in Danville.
(Policy 20.01)
Cooperate with County Flood Control and Water Conservation
District in watershed evaluation and projects intended to reduce
flood hazards. (Policy 20.3)
v. Implementation Measures
a,
Restrict new development in flo0dway and flood plains in
accordance with FEMA requirements. (Policy 20.2)
General Implementation Policies and Programs (Note: Where appropriate,
implementation policies tailored to the individual public service/program have been
developed and are contained in the corresponding subsection above.)
A Development Mitigation Program shall be developed and adopted to ensure that
new development projects pay their share of costs associated with the provision
of facilities associated with parks, fire, police, sanitary facilities, water, and flood
control. The components of this program shall include the following; Growth
Management Pre-submittal Data Sheets describing the goals, performance
standards and policies of the Element to potential developers, a Growth
Management Element Application Checklist for submittal with project applications
18
B,
to document the proposed method to address/meet performance standards for
critical public services, Findings of Approval for new development proposals
testing proposed developments against the intent and requirements of the
Element, Conditions of Approval imposing requirements on new developments
to assure established performance standards for public services' are met, and a
Growth Management Element Monitoring Program to assure that the demands for
new development are matched with plans, capital improvement programs,
development mitigation programs and/or financing mechanisms.
New development projects may be approved only where Findings on Performance
Standards can be made based on one or more of the following conditions; 1)
Assuming participation in adopted mitigation programs, performance standards
will be maintained following project occupancy, 2) Because of the characteristics
of the development project, project-specific mitigation measures are needed in
order to ensure maintenance of performance standards, and such measures have
been incorporated into project conditions of approval as an obligation for the
project developer, or 3) Capital projects planned by the Town or special
district(s) will result in maintenance of standards.
®
JOBS AND HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
Community Profile
With the commencement of development of administrative office uses in Bishop Ranch
in 1981, the San Ramon Valley began transition from a bedroom community of the
1970's to a major regional employment center. The Association of Bay Area
Governments (ABAG) projects a 264% increase in jobs for the San Ramon Valley from
1985 to 2005 (bringing total jobs to 182,350 from 68,820). For the same period ABAG
projects a 36% increase in jobs in Danville (bringing total jobs to 11,970 from 7,690).
The population increase for the entire San Ramon Valley has risen extensively over the
last ten years (a 42% increase ~ bringing the population to 86,600 from 60,580). By
comparison, the population increase for Danville over the last ten years has been less
dramatic (rising 19% - bringing the population to 31,306 from 26,143).
The population growth in Danville was accommodated by a 23% increase in the total
number of housing units (increasing from 8,931 units in 1980 to 11,136 units in 1990).
Table 2 shows ABAG's projections for Danville's jobs/housing ratio covering the period
from 1980 to 2005. Danville will continue to be a net out-commute community
providing roughly two housing units for every local job.
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4.2
4.3
Goals
By law, cities and counties must address their fair shares of the regional housing needs.
Table 3 shows Danville's housing needs estimates established by ABAG for the period
of 1988 through 1995.
The Town's housing program is comprised of policies and objectives that will facilitate
the construction of housing for all income levels. The goals from the Town's Housing
Element have been designed to implement the over-riding goal of making safe, decent
and affordable housing available for all segments of the community, and read as follows:
Preserve and enhance existing residential neighborhoods. (Goal 1.0)
Promote development of affordable housing. (Goal 2.0)
Promote home ownership for moderate income buyers. (Goal 3.0)
Expand financial resources for affordable housing. (Goal 4.0)
Protect long term affordability of new units. (Goal 5.0)
Provide affordable housing through local and intergovernmental cooperation.
(Goal 6.0)
In addition to the goals established in the Housing Element, the following goals and
policies from the Danville 2005 General Plan apply:
Reinforce the small town view of life as perceived by Danville residents,
preserving aesthetics and other community qualities. (Comprehensive General
Plan Goals - Goal 1)
Achieve harmony' between Danville's development and its physical setting by
protecting natural resources, avoiding development of hazardous areas and
preserving critical open space area. (Comprehensive General Plan Goals - Goal
4)
Integrate new development visually and functionally in a manner compatible with
the physical character and desired image of the community. (Goal 3)
Implementing Policies
Review General Plan Amendment Studies regarding potential reduction of
commute trips and average commute length.
20
Have Economic Development Program stress promotion of employment
opportunities for local residents.
Implement Housing Goals with emphasis on matching the development of new
housing with profile of the local work force.
Strive to minimize the financial burden of infrastructure costs imposed through
the development review process on affordable housing projects.
21
Development
TABLE 1
Examples of Developments Meeting the 100 Peak-Hour Trip Threshold
Approximate Size Comments
Single Family 100 units
Condominium 180 units
Apartments 150 units
Hotel 140 rooms
Fast Food Restaurant 40,000 square feet*
Shopping Center
General Office
14,000 square feet*
20,000 square feet
Would include some but not all fast
food restaurants
Represents very small center
Represents small office building
*Notes: Trip generation estimates used to establish approximate development size meeting threshold include adjustment for
pass-by trips.
Source: Trip Generation, 4th Edition - Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1987.
22
TABLE 2
Housing Need Generated by New Employment in Danvllle
1980 and 2005
1980 2005
Households 10,540
Employed Residents 16,300
Employed Residents/Household 1.55
Total Jobs 7,690
Jobs/Employed Residents Ratio 0.47
15,930
25,200
1.58
11,970
O.48
Source: Projections '90, ABAG, December, 1989, pp. 113-135
23
Projected Need
TABLE 3
Housing Needs Estimates for Danville
Distribution of Total Need by Income Category
1988-1989 1990-1995
995 1,449
Total Very Low Moderate Above
Low Moderate
2,444 391 293 440 1,320
Source: ABAG Housin~ Needs Determination, 1988
24
TABLE 4
INTERSECTIONS SUBJECT TO FINDINGS OF SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
(Anticipated to operate at Level of Service D - V/C ration of 0.88 or 0.89)
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Diablo Road at 1-680 northbound ramps
Diablo Road at 1-680 southbound ramps
Green Valley at Diablo Road
Diablo Road at E1 Cerro
Diablo Road at Camino Tassaiara
Camino Ramon at Greenbrook Drive
Camino Ramon/Crow Canyon Place at Fostoria Way
25
GLOSSARY (Optional Subsection)
Action Plan - Multi-jurisdictional planning process to reduce cumulative regional traffic impacts of development.
Action Plans are composed of; long-range assumptions regarding future land use based on local general plans,
adopted traffic service objectives, a listing of specific actions to be implemented by each participating jurisdiction,
requirements for consultation on environmental documents among participating localities, procedures for review of
impacts resulting from proposed local general plan amendments, and a schedule for SWAT and CCTA to review
progress in attaining traffic service objectives (and to provide for revision of Action Plans as needed).
Basic Routes - All local roads not designated as Routes of Regional Significance. Level of Service standards apply to
all signalized intersections.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - A compilation of the capital improvements planned for construction over the
next five year period including cost estimates, the phasing of specific improvements and associated costs and methods
with which specific improvements will be financed.
Contra Costa Transportation Agency (CCTA) - County-wide agency, created with the passage of Measure C
Transportation Improvement and Growth Management Plan, with the charge to achieve a cooperative process for
managing growth, alleviate existing transportation problems and assure that future growth pays for the facilities
required to meet the demands it creates. CCTA is composed of elected officials of the jurisdictions in Contra Costa
County appointed by the four Regional Transportation Planning Committees.
Findings of Special Circumstances - Findings made by the Town and CCTA in cases where a Basic Route
intersection exceeds adopted LOS standards and the standards will not be met following implementation of the
adopted five-year CIP. The findings will allow localities to be in compliance with the Growth Management Program
despite an inability to meet standards at individual locations.
Goal - Statement describing in general terms a condition or quality desired by the Town. Goals may be used as the
policy basis for performance standards and objectives.
Implementation Measure - An action, procedure, program or technique that carries out general plan policy.
Level of Service (LOS) - Indicator of the success of congestion relief measures for Basic Routes, providing
measurements that quantify qualitative traffic conditions by relating measured traffic volumes, or projected traffic
demand, to the capacity of an intersection or facility.
Objectives - Goal statements, which may be higher than the adopted performance standard or which may not be
measurable, that the Town intends to achieve at build-out of the General Plan but may not be achievable throughout
the interim period.
Performance Standard - Standard representing a commitment by the Town to attain a specified level or quality of
performance through its programs and policies.
Regional Route Action Plan - Plans for Regional Routes developed by SWAT in cooperation with CCTA to consider
shared concerns relating to land use decisions as well as transportation projects, taking into account through-traffic,
environmental and financial concerns and specifying actions to be implemented by each participating jurisdiction
and SWAT as a whole.
Residential Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP) - Fee program, established with the adoption of
Ordinance No. 95, levied against new residential development (for the additional burden it places on existing
circulation system) for circulation improvements to be established throughout the Town based on a priority ranking
determined by the Town Council.
Routes of Regional Significance - Road designated by the Town of Danville and the Contra Costa Transportation
Authority~ consistent with the procedures described in the Implementation Guide: Traffic Level of Service Standards
26
and l~roRrams for Routes of Regional SiRni~cance. These roads are subject to objectives and programs outlined in
adopted Action Plans.
Southwest Area Transportation Committee (SWAT) - The Regional Transportation Planning Committee (RTPC)
which covers the Town of Danville, the City of San Ramon, and the Lamorinda jurisdictions of Moraga, Lafayette and
Orinda composed of elected officials from each jurisdiction in this sub-area (including representation of the County)
and providing, through appointment, two members to serve on the CCTA. SWAT provides an open forum for
addressing muki-jurisdictional planning issues and is responsible for designating a network of Routes of Regional
Significance and preparing Action Plans for those routes.
Transportation Demand Management Program (TDM) - Program to increase the efficiency of the transportation
system, reduce demand for road capacity during the peak hour and otherwise affect travel behavior to minimize the
need for capacity-increasing capital projects.
Transportation Improvement Program Fee (TIP) - Fee program, established with the adoption of Ordinance No.
62-85, levied against new non-residential development (for the additional burden it places on existing circulation
systems) for circulation improvements to be established in the downtown area based on a priority ranking determined
by the Town Council.
Volume-to-Capacity (V/C) - Mathematical ratio indicating the level of service at signalized intersections by way of
comparing volume to capacity or vehicle delay.
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27
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