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HomeMy WebLinkAboutScenic Highways Element - Background Report - January 1975 IIUNT!NGTON BEACH PLANNING DEPARTMENT JAN 10 1079 P. 0. Box 190 Huntln&on Beach, Calif. 92"S RF_CEIVEO �1T'' CLERK HUHT1li+' C1 i Y ij �ii;tr 3 xCff,CALIF..' VS JAN 13 ptj 3 : 5 ! • • • SCENIC HIGHWAYS ELEMENT JANUARY,1975 • • • • • HUNTINGTON BEACH G4LIFORNIA PLANNING DEPARTMENT • ABSTRACT • The Scenic Highways Element focuses on scenic areas traversed by highways and seeks the preservation of urban and natural scenic resources adjoining roadways. It is the objective of this General Plan Element to serve the City' s open space objectives while promoting the achievement of the "complete highway" , which in- corporates safety, utility, economy, and beauty with the surrounding environment. Toward this end, the Element examines the background and history of Pacific Coast Highway between the Santa Ana River and Anaheim Bay (eligible for official designation as a State Scenic Highway) , its scenic potential, and the actions necessary to obtain official status. Certain local roadways are also examined for their scenic potential and possible inclusion in a local system of scenic routes. The data collected reveals a ten-year effort by the City to remove billboards along Pacific Coast Highway and thereby qualify the highway for inclusion in the State Scenic Highway System. Although approximately forty billboards were recently removed along Pacific Coast Highway near the Santa Ana River, just as many still exist between Beach Boulevard and Anaheim Bay. The City of Huntington Beach is engaged in litigation with the billboard companies, but it is not likely that the issue will be resolved for some time. Many of the natural and urban open space areas in Huntington Beach can be found adjoining roadways. However, only one of the City' s roadways - Pacific Coast Highway - qualifies for official status under the established State and County Scenic Highways Program. A need is therefore recognized for a local system of scenic routes to direct the impact of the auto-highway combination on the S community' s resources. Based on a set of criterions, nine roadways were selected and then analyzed for possible inclusion in a local scenic route system with Pacific Coast Highway as the backbone. These roadways are: (1) Warner Avenue - from Pacific Coast Highway to Bolsa Chica • Street (2) Goldenwest Street - from Pacific Coast Highway to the northern boundary of Huntington Central Park (3) Lake Street - from Pacific Coast Highway to Garfield Avenue (4 ) Garfield Avenue - from Main Street to the realignment of Gothard Street. (5) Mansion Avenue - from Lake Street to Goldenwest Street. • . . i • (6) Ellis Avenue - from the realigned Gothard Street to the extension of Bolsa Chica Street (7) Gothard Street - from the realigned Ellis Avenue to a junction with Main Street. (8) Edwards Street Extension - from the realigned Ellis Avenue to Garfield (9) Bolsa Chica Street Extension —from Warner Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway The concepts referenced here for realigning Ellis Avenue, Gothard, Lake and Edwards Streets have been outlined by the Planning Staff in the recent Proposed Amendment to the Phase 1 Land Use Element. In the interests of comprehensive planning, it is assumed that the potential realignments will eventually be adopted as part of the ensuing Circulation Element of the General Plan. The local scenic route system, as discussed in the Element, is by no means "fixed" , however. Therefore, should the potential realignments be altered prior to adoption or deleted altogether, the scenic route system will still function effectively. The system would merely be readjusted to incorporate the alignments as they are finally adopted. ' It is the recommendation of the Planning Staff that the City' s final plan for a system of local scenic routes include the follow- ing roadways: Pacific Coast Highway, Warner Avenue, Goldenwest Street, Lake Street (from Pacific Coast Highway to Mansion Avenue only) , Mansion Avenue, Ellis Avenue, Gothard Street, Edwards • Street extension and Bolsa Chica Street extension. The Staff further recommends that a program of development controls for scenic corridors be adopted to assure the existence of scenic values for generations to come. The program provides for signing of local routes, information centers, turnouts, landscaping, and land use and development controls. • • 41 • ii t • SCENIC HIGHWAYS ELEMENT 1. 0 INTRODUCTION 1 1. 1 State Authorization and Requirements 1 1. 1. 1 State Planning Act 1 1. 1. 2 C. I .R. Guidelines 2 1. 1. 3 Streets and Highways Code 2 1. 2 . Definition of Terms 3 • 2. 0 GOALS AND POLICIES 5 2. 1 Function in the Planning Process 5 2 . 2 Goals , Objectives , and Policies 7 2. 2 . 1 Goal 7 2 . 2. 2 Objectives 7 • 2. 2 . 3 Policies 7 3. 0 STATE SCENIC HIGHWAYS SYSTEM 9 3. 1 State Scenic Highway Standards 9 3. 2 Pacific Coast Highway 11 3. 2 . 1 Background 11 • 3. 2. 2 Scenic Potential 16 3. 2 . 3 Task to Acquire Scenic Highway Status 17 3. 2. 3. 1 Specific Plan 18 3. 2 . 3. 2 Implementation Program 18 3. 2. 3. 3 Proposal Submittal and Follow-up 19 • 4. 0 LOCAL SCENIC ROUTE SYSTEM 23 4 . 1 Criteria 23 4. 2 Potential Routes 24 4. 2. 1 Existing Highways 24 4. 2 . 2 Potential Realignments 28 4. 2 . 3 Extensions 31 • 4. 3 Standards for Protection 32 4. 3. 1 General Plan Policy 32 4 . 3. 2 Land Uses 32 4. 3. 2. 1 Land Use Regulations 32 4. 3. 2 . 2 Building Heights and Setbacks 32 4 . 3. 2 . 3 Screening 32 4 . 3. 3 Signs and Outdoor Advertising 32 4. 3. 3. 1 On-Premise Signs 33 4 . 3. 3. 2 Off-Premise Advertising 33 4 . 3. 4 Utility Lines 33 4. 3. 4 . 1 Underground Placement 33 4. 3. 4 2 Overhead Utility Lines 33 4 . 3. 5 Earthwork 33 4. 3. 5. 1 Earthwork Operation 33 4. 3 5. 2 Cover and Screening 33 4. 3. 5. 3 Erosion Control 33 4. 3 . 5. 4 Water Edges 33 4 . 3. 6 Plant Material 33 4 . 3. 7 Development Design 34 Adft • 4 . 3. 8 Property Maintenance 34 4 . 3. 9 Public Uses 34 4 . 3 . 10 Treatment of the Right-of-Way 34 • 4 . 3.11 Treatment of the Roadway 34 4 . 4 Local Scenic Route Program 35 4 . 4 .1 Analysis 40 4 . 5 Cost Analysis 41 4 . 5. 1 Initial Cost 42 4 . 5.1.1 Signing 42 4 .5 .1. 2 Information Centers 42 4 . 5 . 1. 3 Additional Manpower 42 4 . 5 . 2 Long Range Costs 42 4 . 5. 2 . 1 Increased Signing 44 4 . 5 . 2. 2 Turnouts 44 4 . 5 .2 .3 Undergrounding of Utilities 44 4 . 5. 2 . 4 Increased Quality of Landscaping 44 5 . 0 SUMMARY 47 5 . 1 Goal and Policies Statement 47 5 .1 .1 Proposed Goal and Policies 48 5 . 1. 1 . 1 Goal 48 5 .1. 1. 2 Objectives 48 5 . 1.1. 3 Policies 48 5 . 2 Program for Pacific Coast Highway 49 5 . 3 Proposed Local Scenic Route System 50 6 .0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT 55 6 . 1 Introduction 55 6. 2 Description of Program 58 6 . 2 .1 Location 58 6 . 2 .2 General Description 58 6 . 2 . 3 Objectives of the Plan 58 6. 3 Environmental Setting 58 6 . 3 . 1 Land Resources 62 6 .3 .2 Water Resources 62 6 . 3 . 3 Air Resources 62 6 . 3 .4 Biological Resources 62 6 . 3 .5 Cultural Resources 62 6 . 4 Local Scenic Route Program 63 6 .4 .1 Environmental Impacts 63 6. 4 .1.1 Air Resources 63 6. 4 .1.2 Biological Resources 63 6 .4 . 1. 3 Cultural Resources 63 6 . 4 .1 .4 Traffic 67 6 . 4 .1 .5 Economics 67 6.4 . 1.6 Overall Impact 68 6 . 5 Unavoidable Adverse Effects 68 6 . 6 Alternatives to the Proposed Action 68 6 . 6 . 1 No Project 68 6 . 6 . 2 Alternative Scenic Route Plans 69 6 . 7 Short-Term Uses vs. Long-Term 69 Productivity Aft 6. 8 Irreversible Environmental Changes 69 • 6 .9 Growth Inducing Impact 69 7 . 0 APPENDIX • Table of Figures Number Title Page 2-1 GOALS AND POLICIES IN THE PLANNING PROCESS 6 3-1 CALIFORNIA SCENIC HIGHWAY SYSTEM 10 • 3-2 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY SCENIC CORRIDOR 12 3-3 SCENIC FEATURES, PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY 16 3-4 DETRIMENTAL FEATURES, PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY 17 4-1 POTENTIAL SCENIC ROUTES 25 4-2 SCENIC FEATURES OF LOCAL ROUTES 25 4-3 BLIGHTED FEATURES OF LOCAL ROUTES 26 4-4 POTENTIAL ARTERIAL HIGHWAY REALIGNMENTS 29 4-5 PROPOSED SCENIC ROUTE PROGRAM 36 4-6 BIKE TRAIL MAP 37 4-7 POSSIBLE GREENBELT SYSTEM 37 4-8 INFORMATION CENTER 43 4-9 TURNOUT 45 4-10 COSTS FOR TYPICAL TURNOUT 46 5-1 PROPOSED SCENIC ROUTE PROGRAM 51 6-1 PLANNING AREA 59 6-2 VICINITY MAP 60 6-3 RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN MASTER PLAN AND COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS 61 • 6-4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS MATRIX 64 ACWL lip Section 1 introduction • • • • • 1. 0 INTRODUCTION • Scenic beauty and aesthetic quality have gained importance as concern for the environment has increased. Conservation of scenic resources is now directed by state planning laws requiring local jurisdictions to insure the preservation of pleasant and distinctive vistas, and the protection of the vital natural process contained within the • scenery, through the adoption of certain mandatory elements of the General Plan. The Scenic Highways Element, in particular, focuses on scenic areas traversed by highways and seeks the preservation of urban spatial and natural scenic resources adjoining roadways. 1. 1 State Authorization and Requirements • Guidance on preparation of the Scenic Highways Element is offered in several forms by the State. 1. 1. 1 State Planning Act • Preparation of a Scenic Highways Element is mandated by state law, which requires all cities and counties to adopt a program for the development, establishment, and protection of scenic highways pursuant o the provisions of the State Streets and Highways Code. • Adft 1 • 1. 1. 2 C. I. R. Guidelines The California Council on Intergovernmental Relations . offers additional definition to state law in its General Plan guidelines published in September, 1973. The Scenic Highways Element "provides for the local planning for official and unofficial scenic highways. official scenic highways are so designated by the State Scenic Highway Advisory Committee. . . . Although the emphasis of the scenic • highway element is on the designation of state highway routes as ' scenic' routes, this does not preclude local agencies from developing and adopting local scenic routes. " C. I. R. suggests that the Scenic Highways Element include: A. Identification and evaluation of scenic resources in the vicinity of streets and highways, particularly those routes eligible for official, scenic route designation. B. Identification of scenic corridors. C. Policies and programs to enhance and protect the scenic corridors. D. A diagram indicating the community' s scenic highway system and the routes therein. E. Formulation of implementation measures. 1.1. 3 Streets and Highways Code "The Master Plan for Scenic State Highways, " as contained in the Streets and Highways Code, establishes the State' s responsibility for the ". . .protection and enhancement of California' s natural scenic beauty by identifying those portions of the state highway system which, together with the adjacent scenic corridors, require special scenic conservation treatment. "2 The Master Plan further assigns responsibility for the development of such scenic highways, and establishment of procedures to the appropriate state and local agency. The Master Plan also discusses standards to protect the scenic highway and adjacent land within the corridor. The standards should include: (1) regulation of land use and intensity of development (2) detailed land and site planning (3) control of outdoor advertising 2 ..-,! qW • (4) control of earth moving and landscaping (5) design control of structures and equipment • 1. 2 Definition of Terms The following definitions are presented to help clarify some important terms used in this report. • Scenic Corridor: The visible land area outside the highway right-of-way and generally described as "the view from the road" . Scenic Highway: An official State or County Scenic Highway designate by the State Scenic Highways Advisory Committee after application from local jurisdictions, and only if on list of eligible highways found in Section 263 of the Streets and Highways Code. Scenic Route: A roadway that traverses a defined corridor containing scenic resources and aesthetic values which are protected and enhanced; designated as such by a Citywide program of developing and adopting local scenic routes . • "Complete" Highway: A highway which incorporates safety, utility, economy, and beauty with the surrounding environment. • AdWX • • • • 3 • section 2 • goals and policies • • • • • 2. 0 GOALS AND POLICIES The development of goals and policies is the most fundamental aspect of the planning process. A goal is the expression of an ultimate ideal to be achieved. It is the end result toward which efforts are directed. While a goal represents where to go, a policy is a directive on how to get there. It implies a realistic method and a general guide by which goals can be obtained. Because they describe in general terms both the community's destination and the most desirable route for arriving at it, these statements of community purpose and intent direct the selection of the most desirable future for the City from the many alternatives available. The role of goals and policies in the planning process is indicated in Figure 2-1. 2. 1 Function in the Planning Process Before any plans or action programs can be developed, it is important • to analyze the attitudes of the community. In the case of the Scenic Highways Element, this involves determining the community's major concerns for scenic resources and aesthetic values, and the extent to which the community is willing to pursue an action program. Huntington Beach is fortunate to have 'an adopted Policy Plan prepared by a Council-appointed citizens advisory committee under the direction of the Planning Department. This document carefully assesses the attitudes of the community and presents written goals AWL 5 -• f • • FIGURE 2-1 • GOALS AND POLICIES I`1 THE PLANNING PROCESS Desirable Future • Action Program Community Plans • Public Agencies • Goals and Policies • Needs Desires Community • • • • u • • and objectives in major areas of citizen concern, including environmental resources. These goals and objectives, which describe the future desired by City residents, have been utilized in formu- lating the basic principles - the goals and policies - upon which the Scenic Highways Element is based. 2. 2 Goals, Objectives, and Policies The following statements represent a comprehensive directive regard- ing scenic resources and aesthetic values as they relate to scenic highways and adjacent corridors in Huntington Beach. 2. 2. 1 Goal To protect and enhance the scenic areas traversed by • roadways . 2. 2 . 2 Objectives a. To serve the open space objectives of recreation, enhancement of life, and management of incompatible • development of areas which should be preserved for historic, conservation, or public health and safety purposes . b. To promote the achievement of a "complete highway" which incorporates safety, utility, economy, and beauty with • the surrounding environment. c. To maintain and enhance a scenic route as an integral part of the setting through which it passes without imposing undue restrictions on private property or constricting the normal flow of traffic. • 2. 2. 3 Policies 1. Establish the City' s responsibility for the protection and enhancement of scenic values within the local circulation system. • 2. Encourage the development of a system of local scenic routes within the City, to be enjoyed by all residents and visitors. 3. Incorporate the applicable goals of the City' s General • Plan (e.g. conservation and land use control) into the plans for a local scenic route system. 4 . Direct development within the scenic corridor in a way compatible with the protection of scenic values. • 5 . Coordinate the local scenic route system with a network of trails and greenbelts. ACM& 7 no 6 . Encourage the development of a comprehensive program for undergrounding utilities. 7. Improve and enforce standards for commercial signs. • 8. Eliminate billboards throughout the entire shoreline area. • • • • • • • • 8 Adft section 3 state scenic . highways sys tem • • • • • • 3.0 STATE SCENIC HIGHWAY SYSTEM The Master Plan of Scenic Highways, as adopted by the State Legislature, identifies those highways in California that are eligible for official designation (See Figure 3-1) . Eligible high- ways may become official Scenic Highways when the following require- ments have been completed: (1) The roadway and right-of-way meet Scenic Highway Standards; (2) or the State has developed a plan and program to bring the road • and right-of-way up to State standards; (3) a plan and program for the protection and enhancement of the Scenic Corridor has been adopted and implemented by the local jurisdiction. • 3. 1 State Scenic Highway Standards Achieving official designation of eligible Scenic Highways requires that local governments take the necessary planning actions to protect and enhance the scenic appearance of the corridor. These • actions, as outlined below, comprise the minimum standards for official State Scenic Highways : Adft' 9 • • � n U • CALIFORNIA SCENIC • HIGHWAY SYSTEM Sept.,1970 • Saamsente • San b • 0 • Baer•. • Huntington Beach San • 10 Fig. 3 A • • a. Regulation of land use, governing density and intensity of development. • b. Detailed land and site planning. C. Control of outdoor advertising. d. Control of earthmoving and landscaping. • e. Control of structures and equipment, their design and appearance. 3. 2 Pacific Coast Highway • Any highway shown on the State' s Master Plan of Scenic HIghways is eligible to become an "officially designated State Scenic Highway" . Route 1, between San Juan Capistrano and Long Beach, locally known as Pacific Coast Highway, is included in the State system (see Figure 3-1) . The section of Pacific Coast Highway under study here is the ten-mile stretch between the Santa Ana River and Anaheim Bay • and the adjacent corridor (Figure 3-2) . The local jurisdictions involved are the City of Huntington Beach and the County of Orange. The ten-mile length lies within City limits with the exception of the roadway bordering the Bolsa Chica Marsh and the section approach- ing Anaheim Bay; these locations are under County control. Although the entire ten-mile stretch does not fall within City limits, it is • contained within the City's sphere of influence as defined by the Huntington Beach City Council. The sphere of influence extends north from the centerline of the Santa Ana River to Sunset Beach, encompassing the Bolsa Chica. • 3. 2. 1 Background Efforts to obtain official scenic highway status for Route 1 between the Santa Ana River and Anaheim Bay date back to December 7, 1964 . On this day, the City Council adopted an amendment to the zoning ordinance providing for the elimination of existing off-premise advertising in the City. What follows is a chronology of significant actions involved in the City' s effort to remove billboards and thereby qualify Pacific Coast Highway for official status as a State Scenic Highway. • December 7, 1964 : Ordinance No. 1105, requiring removal of all existing off-site advertising within five years is adopted by the City Council of Huntington Beach. The ordinance took effect January 6, 1965, requiring removal of all non-conforming signs by January 6, 1970. This date constituted compliance with the maximum • five-year removal period for billboards, as set forth by order of the Director of Public Works of the State of California. AWL 11 ...... ---- • BOLIA ................. ........ ................... ..................... HEIL ................ ............. SLATR TALSIBIT .... ........... --------- GARFIELD ................. .............. .................. YORKTOWN ADAMS INDIANAPOLIS ............. ATLANTA ............ HAMLTON ................ -0- BANNING Fig. 3-2 AmItNlh PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY fil SCENIC CORRIDOR • huntington beach planning department 12 J • February 1, 1966 : State promulgates policy on signs along Route 1 - allow all existing sign structures to remain on the property purchased for freeway purposes; not • allow new structures or roadside vending. March 14 , 1966 : Department of Public Works of the City of Huntington Beach, under the direction of the City Council, requests in writing that the State Division of Highways initiate scenic highway corridor studies on • Pacific Coast Highway. May 24, 1966 : The County of Orange similarly requests, by Resolution of the Board of Supervisors, that the Division of Highways initiate corridor studies. • July 11, 1966 : City Council of Huntington Beach directs that a program be established for removal of all directional and advertising signs on City property. July 12, 1966 : District 7 Engineer of the Division of Highways notifies the City Administrator of Huntington • Beach that he is willing to cooperate with the City in its effort to remove signs on State property along Beach Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. September 19 , 1966 : City Council of Huntington Beach adopts a resolution requesting the support of the State • Highway Commission in the removal of certain signs, billboards, and outdoor advertising on State property within City limits. November 25, 1966 : State Highway Engineer informs the City Administrator of Huntington Beach that the • Division of Highways will cooperate with the City in the removal of certain signs, billboards, and outdoor advertising in Huntington Beach. September 13, 1967 : Division of Highways, District 7, notifies the City of Huntington Beach that all sign board companies with billboards on State property in Huntington Beach have been notified that a Highway Scenic and Safety Program will be conducted by the State Division of Highways and the City of Huntington Beach. The program requires the removal of all sign- boards on State property in the City by December 31, • 1967. December 11, 1967 : City Administrator of Huntington Beach reports to the City Council on the State' s reversal of position on the removal of billboards in Huntington Beach. The State reversed the order that all sign- boards on State property had to be removed by December 31, 1967, and began working with the advertising companies to beautify the sign installations. Aft 13 one= am • March 18, 1968: City Council of Huntington Beach adopts a resolution supporting introduction of legislation which would prohibit the placement of billboards along a State highway whether or not the right-of-way is • presently used for highway purposes. June, 1968 : Division of Highways , District 7 , submits completed corridor studies on Pacific Coast Highway to the City of Huntington Beach for use in the preparation of a scenic corridor plan and program. The • two studies are entitled "Scenic Highway Corridor Survey, Pacific Coast Highway, Route l, " and "Highway Facility Study, Pacific Coast Highway, Route l. " February 3, 1969 : City Council of Huntington Beach adopts a resolution requiring applicants for State outdoor • advertising permits to file a certificate of local zoning compliance with the Director of Building and Safety of the City. September 21, 1970 : City Council of Huntington Beach adopts amendment to the local Ordinance Code, • establishing an amortization period for nonconforming signs and requiring the posting of bonds for temporary signs. November 2, 1970 : City Council of Huntington Beach is advised by the City' s Director of Building and Safety • that over 800 illegal signs had been removed during the previous ten days. June 7, 1971: City Attorney's office of Huntington Beach, pursuant to the direction of the City Council, files criminal complaints in Municipal Court against five • outdoor advertising sign companies. 3 Complaints are filed for violation of the City Ordinance governing nonconforming signs by maintaining billboards after expiration of the five-year amortization period. September 10, 1971: The respective outdoor advertising • companies file suit in Superior Court to restrain the City from enforcing the sign ordinance. The Superior Court grants a temporary restraining order pending a full hearing to test the validity of the ordinance. • February 9 , 1972 : Superior Court grants a preliminary injunction against the City from enforcing its outdoor sign ordinance, pending trial. July, 1972 : The State of California Department of Public Works notifies the billboard companies that they are to remove all billboards from State property by 14 A&V& I lip • September 1, 1972, on the basis of the Huntington Beach Sign Ordinance. • September 14 , 1972 : Metromedia, Inc . (Foster & Kleiser and Pacific Outdoor Advertising Company, a corporation) files suit against the State of California, seeking an injunction. Injunction is sought to prevent the State from removing • billboards on State-owned property adjacent to existing Highway 1 in Huntington Beach. Court grants a temporary restraining order. Approximately thirty billboards on State-owned property are not subject to the restraining order. • March 1973 - March 1974, Interim Period, Pending Trial : City of Huntington Beach and Metromedia, Inc. negotiate to possibly reach settlement incorporating the following points: 1. Eliminate some of the billboards immediately, • particularly on Pacific Coast Highway. 2 . Employ a schedule for take-down of other billboards in the future, with emphasis on Pacific Coast Highway. 3. Retain some billboards, particularly along • Beach Boulevard, subject to certain spacing and beautification requirements. April 1, 1974 : City Council of Huntington Beach directs City Attorney to proceed with settlement negotiations and consider specific proposals , • subject to City Council approval. August 9, 1974 : Orange County Superior Court finds in favor of the State in the court case Metromedia, Inc. vs. State of California. • August 14, 1974 : Metromedia files a notice of appeal, which subsequently fails. September 13, 1974 : City Attorney' s office of the City of Huntington Beach and legal counsel and representative of Foster & Kleiser concur • on the following points : 1. Phased removal program for Pacific Coast Highway is feasible. • 15 i • 2 . Some immediate take-down of billboards on Coast Highway is feasible. • November , 1974 : Roughly forty billboards situated along Pacific Coast Highway between the Santa Ana River and Beach Boulevard are removed. • February, 1975 : Scheduled date for court case of Metromedia, et al vs . City of Huntington Beach before the Orange County Superior Court. 3 . 2 . 2 Scenic Potential Considerable scenic potential is offered by Pacific Coast Highway. White sandy beaches separate the roadway from the Pacific Ocean throughout the entire study area, extending from the Santa Ana River to Anaheim Bay. Anaheim Bay, • still a relatively unmodified estuary, provides the estuarine features now transformed into the marina develop- ment, Huntington Harbour. Situated opposite Bolsa Chica State Beach is the Bolsa Chica Marsh, providing a sanctuary for numerous species of waterfowl. Between the Santa Ana River and Newland Avenue lies another marshy area • inhabited by waterfowl species, not as easily visible from the road, however. These scenic resources offer several scenic vistas to the automobile traveler driving along Route 1. (A scenic vista is defined here as a view or outlook which presents desirable sights. ) Figure 3-3 identifies scenic vistas as viewed from Pacific Coast Highway. From a general standpoint, almost the entire- length of the highway under study offers a view of a vast expanse of land and water combined -- sandy beaches abutting an open sea with Catalina Island in the distance. (The view is interrupted in some locations by high ground separating the beach and ocean from the roadway. ) The Long Beach - Palos Verdes Peninsula can also be viewed in the distance when driving north on the highway between Goldenwest Street and the Bolsa Chica. Specific viewpoints include the following locations along the roadway: the Santa Ana River Bridge, the Huntington • Beach Pier, the frontage along the Bolsa Chica Marsh, and the Anaheim Bay Bridge. Vistas are both natural and urban: • 16 Ad . i am • • ................ z. .......... ........... ........ + .. .......... Z", + .10 < PC.H. .... Bridg Huntingt6h Hcwbo.ur. .............. .............. Anaheim A Bay Bred is .......... Water • A92tk LEGEND Fig. 3-3 I HUNTINGTON BEACH C4LIFORNIA PLANNING DEPARTMENT 0 Vista Line Landmark Feature• SCENIC FEATURES 0 Street Tress PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY Planted Median E3 Open Space • 1. inland and out to sea along the Santa Ana River 2. the length of the Huntington Beach Pier • 3. the Bolsa Chica wildlife sanctuary 4 . the Bolsa Gun Club Hill 5. Anaheim Bay • 6 . the Huntington Harbour developments. A landscaped median complimented by street trees on the beach side distinguishes the section of highway between Lake Street and Beach Boulevard. These improvements were • completed as part of the Parking Authority Program, which also constructed a 2, 100 space parking lot on the beach in a park-like atmosphere. Vistas from Pacific Coast Highway are, in some cases, marred by obstruction of view or blight by uncomplimentary • development (Figure 3-4) . Oil production (including off-shore drilling operations) , structural blight, off-site advertising, overhead utilities , and air pollution (especially obstructive to distant vistas) - several features which inhibit an unobstructed view of scenic resources from Route 1. • Various measures could be employed by the City to improve the view from the road through a comprehensive program of corridor protection. Examples include: screening through planting, grading, or fencing; undergrounding of utilities; elimination of off-site advertising; and grading. For • those areas of Route 1 under County jurisdiction (the frontage along the Bolsa Chica and the stretch approaching Anaheim Bay) , measures such as those outlined above can only be encouraged by the City. The actual implementation must be conducted by the County. • 3. 2. 3 Task to Acquire Scenic Highway Status The City of Huntington Beach must prepare a specific plan and implementation program in order to acquire official scenic highway designation for Pacific Coast Highway. The • plan and program should provide for the protection and enhancement of the existing scenic resources within the scenic corridor. The corridor surveys completed by the Division of Highways (now a part of the California Depart- ment of Transportation) are intended for use in the preparation of the scenic corridor plan and program. These • studies contain: ' . _ . 17 �. t. • (1) suggested scenic highway corridor boundaries. (2) scenic elements within the suggested corridor. (3) the relationship of the right-of-way to its surrounding environment. (4) suggested preservation of the scenic and aesthetic elements of the visual environment. (5) proposed realignments of Route 1. (6) potential locations of roadside rests and vista points. 3. 2 . 3. 1 Specific Plan The Scenic Highway specific plan is to be based on the City ' s General Plan and associated implementation program. Contents of the specific plan should include: 1. Regulations limiting the location of buildings and • other improvements with respect to existing right-of- way. 2. Regulations governing the use of land, the height and bulk of buildings, and the open space about buildings. • 3. Such other measures as may be requi3'ed to insure the execution of the General Plan. 4 3. 2. 3. 2 Implementation Program Given here is a list of suggested implementation measures. If carried out, this program would qualify Pacific Coast Highway for official scenic highway status. The recommendations are as follows : 1. Prepare and adopt a zoning district to govern develop- ment within the corridor, thereby protecting and enhancing scenic values. The zoning district would include regulations pertaining to: a. architectural review b. site plan review • C. land uses d. building heights and setbacks e . density • 18 OF • sA Kok c°ro��``Fr, c°1y94o o°`SP N-y �'ti�o 'cos PP G Gp S�PlPP a00 �q�O ... O P �Pti ,yo ,Fy �o f ♦P S G v� P O L G i r r •. • . Edison Steam:: . • ..., x x ..: .: .. • • �.:.. . X $ Oa..... X•X X kX. xx..x:x�c..:. :b .. x-x.:x x x . ..:. • • s:o• :. •••• • B•B •••• as a• • • X•7C X r Y f Fig.3-4 LEGEND »'> HUNTINGTON BEACH C4LIFORNIA ".: PLANNING DEPARTMENT L • Oil Wells 13 Structural Blight B Billboards i X Overhead Utilities o Oil Storage Tanks DETRIMENTAL FEATURES PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY i , • • f. building coverage g. lot area h. on-and off-premise signs • i. screening and landscaping j . historical preservation k. cut and fill operations • 2. Coordinate with the utility companies to underground overhead utilities where possible. Require underground utilities in new developments wherever possible. 3. Enforce maintenance controls, including but not • limited to, the following: a. Uniform Building Code b. Fire Prevention Code • C. Litter Control d. Weed Control 4. Utilize conservation and planning legislation wherever applicable to enhance and protect aesthetic • and scenic values. An example is the California Land Conservation Act which makes provision to preserve agricultural, scenic corridor, and open space land. 3 . 2. 3. 3 Proposal Submittal and Follow-Up • Upon completion, the Scenic Highway specific plan and program is submitted to the District 7 office of the California Department of Transportation located in Los Angeles (see Figure 3-5 for an outline of the necessary procedures) . Comments on the plan and program • by Cal-Trans and the State Corridor Studies are next forwarded to the Interdepartmental Committee on Scenic Highways for review. This committee is comprised of representatives of State departments who assist the Scenic Highway Advisory Committee. The Advisory Committee was set up in 1963 as the primary policy body • ALOOk 19 1 • FIGURE 3-5 • TASK FLOW CHART 1. Planning Department prepares a Specific Plan and Imple- mentation Program for Pacific Coast Highway and adjacent corridor. 2 . California Department of Transportation, District 7 • Office, reviews Plan and Program. 3. Review by Interdepartmental Committee on Scenic Highways. 4 . Review by Scenic Highway Advisory Committee. • 5. Director of the State Department of Public Works deter- mines the qualification of the proposal for official Scenic Highway designation. 6. Scenic Highway Specific Plan and Program is adopted by the City Council and Planning Commission of Huntington Beach. 7. Assuming approval, the City of Huntington Beach carries out the Scenic Highway Plan and Program. 8 . City of Huntington Beach applies to the Department of Transportation, District 7 , Engineer for official designation. • 9 . Director of Public Works designates Route I between the Santa Ana River and Anaheim Bay as an Official State Scenic Highway. The Highway is signed accordingly. • • 20 fly • • for recommending program criteria, reviewing local applications for, and recommending approval of, official Scenic Highway designations. • After review by the Advisory Committee, the State Director of Public Works determines the qualification of the proposal for official status of Pacific Coast Highway. His approval means that if the local jurisdiction carries out its Scenic Highway Plan and Program as • outlined in the proposal, he will designate the route as an official State Scenic Highway. The highway will then be signed as such. • Aft • • • • • • 21 • section 4 local scenic route system 4 . 0 LOCAL SCENIC ROUTE SYSTEM The City of Huntington Beach contains numerous natural and urban open space areas. Many of these resources are contained in areas adjoining roadways which could be designated scenic corridors through a system of scenic highways. Only one of the City's roadways - Pacific Coast Highway - qualifies for official status under the established State and County Scenic Highways Programs, however. A need is therefore recognized for a local system of scenic routes to direct the impact of the auto-highway combination on the community ' s landscape, scenic areas and, indeed, the total environment. The system should consider a variety of interrelated values and needs of the City of Huntington Beach: circulation, recreation, conservation, public health and safety, and scenic aesthetic amenity. 4 . 1 Criteria Listed below are several criteria developed by the Planning Department Staff for designation of local scenic routes in Huntington Beach. These criteria are designed to serve as the basis for evaluating the qualifications of a particular local roadway. ACWk 23 • • 1. Aesthetics 2. Topography 3 . Vegetation • 4. Structures (within the potential corridor) 5. Type of Roadway (e.g. , arterial, local street) 6. Significant Natural and Man-made Features 7 . Landscape Character • 8 . Ecological Areas 9. Probability of Acquisition and/or Protection 10. Potential to Coordinate Scenic Route with Local Trail and Greenbelt System. • 4. 2 Potential Routes The intent of both the State and County Scenic Highway Programs is to preserve and enhance scenic areas traversed by highways, whether they be of a natural or urban character. This is also true • of the local scenic route system. Even though Huntington Beach is an urbanized city, natural resources are plentiful and serve to compliment the City' s urban features. What follows is a discussion of the possible routes and their scenic potential (See Figure 4-1) . The narrative categorizes roadways according to status - existing roadway, extension, or potential realignment. It should be noted • that only arterial highways have been considered for inclusion in the local scenic route system. Local streets are not designed to carry the additional traffic volume that would result from a street' s designation as a local scenic route. In contrast, arter- ial highways are designed to carry heavier traffic loads, and • surrounding land uses are planned accordingly. 4. 2. 1 Existing Highways5 a. Warner Avenue - from Pacific Coast Highway to Bolsa Chica Street. • Warner Avenue in this location offers a variety of views to the atuomobile traveler. Features of scenic merit include: (1) On the north, a quality urban vista with a • view of the Huntington Harbour channels. (2) On the south: (a) Bolsa Bay (b) Bolsa Gun Club Hill (Landmark Feature • No. 1 - see Figure 4-2) 24 ACS.1 • ' tt BOLSA .............:................. __... .:. . MdAD0B1 BD"M tr........ _w Ntz t .............................. ... .,�� • . �.,.�--c W .,* TAB 3 . . .. .... LEGEND ,,• " ° OARFIELD •---�- EXISTING ROADWAY �. .,•�.w�.,�. ..................................... ................:....................................: 1- KMKTOWN ........ POTENTIAL REALIGNMENT ` ------ EXTENSION(AS DEPICTED ON m ADAMS THE MASTER PLAN OF ARTERIAL HIGHWAYS) ' __.. INDIANAiOL15 ` .-. .e.,...,..,...... ........._.....i.....................y.,..,,,,.,,..,...,.,.- _....:�:. ATLANTA ,0 :..\ .••�-•�-• �--� NAMLTON • `•~. BANNM Fig.4 A \ ' POTENTIAL SCENIC ROUTES huntington beach planning department • 25 • (c) A water tower (Landmark Feature No. 2) (d) Open space i Obstructions of view include overhead utilities along Warner on the south side near Pacific Coast Highway, and two billboards near the intersection of Algonquin and Warner (See Fig- ure 4-3) . • b. Goldenwest Street - from Pacific Coast Highway to the northern boundary of Huntington Central Park. Goldenwest Street, from Coast Highway proceeding through Huntington Central Park, incorporates many , scenic as well as blighted features. Proceeding northeast from the ocean, the automobile traveler encounters a landscaped median terminating at Clay Avenue (See Figure 4-2 for scenic features) . Street trees border the arterial on both sides near its intersection with Pacific Coast Highway and on the west side near the intersection of Goldenwest and Clay Avenue. Goldenwest Street, at its intersection with Mansion Avenue, offers a vista to the east of the Civic Center complex (Figure 4-2 , Landmark Feature No. 3) with • the Huntington Beach High School in the foreground (Landmark Feature No. 4) . Open space borders the potential scenic route on the east from south of Clay to Garfield; a nursery lies immediately to the west at the intersection with Garfield. A rural vista exists looking west from Goldenwest just before approaching Huntington Central Park, where the most scenic features bordering the arterial are found. Lakes , the Central Library (See Fig- ure 4-2 , Landmark Feature No. 5) , and vast expanses of green space can be enjoyed by the automobile • traveler when proceeding north through Central Park. Residential areas across Edwards Street to the west provide a pleasing contrast to the natural view offered by Central Park, the Bolsa Chica, and the Pacific Ocean. Additional views can be seen when traveling in the opposite direction towards the sea: the Civic Center from the intersection of Clay and Goldenwest and locations slightly south, and the Pacific Ocean from Mansion Avenue and locations south. • 26 • • ? p !p :......... t V .f f• P f � 10!4 P Cy�C 9 si ss • •(yam 9 .�i t •'{s P I ZIs qi: `O? �•fs s. 0 *ram . :M .Huntipgton77 HW, > Harbor' .. ... • :! PACIFIC': COAST ; • :. LEGEND Fig.4-2 »: HUNTINGTON BEACH CALIFORNIA PLANNING DEPARTMENT • e Street Trees ® Open Space Tree Stand Existing Roadway Planted Median """ Potential Realignment * Landmark Feature w - Extension(As Depicted On--30- SCENIC FEATURES Scenic Vista The Master Plan Of Arterial Highways) OF LOCAL ROUTES • • a• '• ... hi'tr°o :. tr..h..:. '?k; i, i try a ¢f" ,v ''$� �pP? \�y .,.,a: ... .. ...: :.::. C Y^+f+hT ` as t� � ;a : •eo-,� �° ,;v • •• Fyfi ., .. ..e �Z y. fifii: �.,°�tr^t�' s� `+\P o p �Oc,°`V` , ? w Oy j YW Gp fi .. 'iy ' ♦ ., k w° \ rtr^ P N • tr' r.. n, 00 q'¢+ % �' )'.: # 't' tr3• $ `try i^� e' o Al .10 ti¢,tr t,.,/ ,i�'.E, C•y�tr`+ ,.y _h�k t •:tr •, �� yf 40 0.00 40 } Y. L 4 , fi • , i , ., X 41 N. Fig. 4-3 LEGEND HUNTINGTON BEACH C4LIFORNIA PLANNING DEPARTMENT e Oil wells Existing Roadway o Oil Storage Tanks .••••• Potential Realignment � Structural Blight B Billboards '--' Extension(As Depicted On The Master Plan Of X Overhead Utilities Arterial Highways) BLIGHTED FEATURES OF LOCAL ROUTES • • Blighted features along Goldenwest are numerous (See Figure 4-3) : • (1) Overhead utilities on both sides of the arterial between Coast Highway and Mansion Avenue. (2) Four billboards - three just south of Mansion to the southeast, and one just south of Central Park to the west. (3) Concentrations of oil wells between Clay and Ellis on both sides of the arterial. (4) Structural blight on the east in two locations - • between Clay and Mansion and just south of Huntington Central Park. (5) Industrial blight between Garfield and Ellis on the east. The stretch of Goldenwest from south of Garfield to the northern boundary of Huntington Central Park falls within one of the five study areas covered in the Proposed Amendment to the Phase I Land Use Element (October, 1974) . In the interests of con- sistency among the individual general plan elements , • it is assumed that the proposals set forth in the amendment to the Land Use Element and the ensuing Circulation Element will be adopted and integrated into the City' s General Plan. Therefore, assuming adoption of the recommended land use plan for the study area south of Central Park, three of the • blighted features cited previously would be partially abated. Oil resource production would be concen- trated in the area southwest of the intersection of Garfield and Goldenwest. Existing industrial use northeast of Garfield and Goldenwest would become a non-conforming use, under the recommended plan's residential designation, providing for the eventual elimination of this source of visual blight. C. Lake Street - from Pacific Coast Highway to Mansion Avenue (See Figures 4-2 and 4-3 for scenic and blighted features, respectively) . 6 • Almost the entire length of Lake Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Mansion Avenue is bordered on both sides by street trees. Open space within the corridor includes Lake Park (See Figure 4-2 , Land- mark Feature No. 6) between Eleventh and Twelfth • 27 • • Streets and the railroad right-of-way on the east side of Lake Street between Atlanta and Mansion. Vistas include: • (1) the Pacific Ocean when looking southwest from Olive Street and locations south; (2) Colonel Northam' s residence (Landmark Feature No. 7) when looking north from Palm Avenue and • locations north; (3) the Civic Center complex when looking west from Utica Avenue and locations north to Mansion. Blighted features include oil wells to the east at • Atlanta and Lake, and two areas of structural blight where Lake Streets intersects Pecan and Mansion. d. Garfield Avenue - from Main Street to the realign- ment of Gothard Street (See Figures 4-2 and 4-3) . • Vacant land borders Garfield Avenue on both sides in this location, with street trees complimenting the open character on the north side. Blighted elements include structural blight on the south and limited overhead utilities on the north and south. • e. Mansion Avenue - from Lake Street to Goldenwest Street. Mansion Avenue outlines the Civic Center complex on the north end, providing a pleasurable view of the local point of interest (See Figure 4-2) . Street trees border Mansion Avenue on the north between Lake and Goldenwest Streets, partially sheltering Colonel Northam' s residence on the north. Huntington Beach High School, with its historic tower, can be seen from Mansion and Main Streets when traveling west. Marring the route ' s scenic features are several oil wells located south of Mansion just west • of Lake Street (See Figure 4-3) . 4 . 2 . 2 Potential Realignments Concepts for realigning Ellis Avenue, Gothard, Lake and • Edwards Streets have been outlined by the Planning Department Staff in the recent Proposed Amendment to the Phase I Land Use Element (See Figure 4-4) . The following discussion is based on the assumption that the potential realignments will eventually be adopted as part of the ensuing Circulation Element of the General • 28 ACWA 0m, • , ° I BOLL& ` I .. ......... ................ ........................_......... .. Md#DOBi Y� BonGBil Vj ..... ... ...... ..............._;,.................._ .._....-.. ........ _.............. ..... HER -, - MB1RFBt TT71 TALIERIT LEGENDa s1�^ GARFIELD ------ REALIE3N1 f:1�T �i. .... . .., -. ..... TORKTGWN ` '\ `�'�.- .. ---• ADAMS \.X �\ INDIANAPOLIS • 0 Q ....... ATLANTA HAMLTON • �;"�* \.. 4�.. 3 ............... .. BANNING Fig.4-4 a POTENTIAL ARTERIAL HIGHWAY REALIGNMENTS huntington beach planning department 29 Plan, and will become an integral part of the City' s circulation system. a. Ellis Avenue - from the realigned Gothard Street to the extension of Bolsa Chica Street (See Figure 4-2 for scenic features) . The scenic potential of Ellis Avenue between Gothard and Bolsa Chica is at a maximum. With the road not yet constructed, maximum opportunity exists for control of road construction and development of the scenic corridor. Recommended land uses , as proposed in the Amendment to the Phase I Land Use Element, include the expansion of Huntington Central Park or other open space on the north,and residential estate development on the south. Implementation of the "scenic route" concept for this stretch of Ellis in conjunction with surrounding open space and low-density residential uses provides a valuable opportunity to achieve the main objective of the local scenic route program - to protect and enhance scenic areas traversed by highways. b. Gothard Street - from the realigned Ellis Avenue to a junction with Main Street. Gothard Street provides a potential link in the scenic route system, directing traffic from Mansion to Ellis and vice versa. As with Ellis Avenue , this stretch of Gothard Street is not yet constructed. Maximum opportunity therefore exists for protecting and enhancing scenic features in this area of the City through development controls. Scenic features (Figure 4-2) include a stand of Eucalyptus trees , open space on both sides of the roadway, and varied topographic features. Blighted features (Figure 4-3) include oil wells and storage tanks , overhead utilities, and an automobile salvage yard. The automobile salvage yard would become a non- conforming use upon adoption of the proposed amend- ment to the Land Use Element. The recommended land use plan redesignates this industrial area for residential use. Non-conforming use status would then permit eventual elimination of this industrial use within the potential scenic corridor. C . Lake Street - from Mansion Avenue to Garfield Avenue. The realignment of Lake Street from Mansion to Garfield could be employed to carry traffic from 30 Adft f • Lake Street (at its present termination at Mansion) to Gothard Street, with the support of Garfield • Avenue as the connecting link. The realignment of Lake Street would border the Southern Pacific rail- road right-of-way on the east. Colonel Northam' s residence and surrounding vegetation, a scenic and historic feature, would lie to the west (Figure 4-2).. • d. Edwards Street - from the realigned Ellis Avenue to Garfield. Edwards Street, to be extended in coordination with continued development, offers tremendous scenic potential. This section of the roadway, together • with the further extension from Garfield to Pacific Coast Highway, will provide several scenic vistas (Figure 4-2) . Automobile travelers will see the Bolsa Chica, the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The bluff line will offer topographic variation, increasing this road- • way' s scenic attraction. A protection program as part of the Scenic Highways Element could insure the continued quality of this area' s scenic features by imposing development controls and regulating roadway treatment. • 4. 2. 3 Extensions a. Bolsa Chica Street - from Warner Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway. The eventual extension of Bolsa Chica Street from • Warner to Pacific Coast Highway (in conjunction with development) holds great scenic potential, and could serve as a valuable link in the City' s local scenic route system. The roadway, when constructed, will outline the Bolsa Chica, one of the most significant remaining estuaries in Southern Calif- ornia. The Bolsa Chica provides valuable wildlife habitat and distinctive vegetation, in addition to significant mineral, archaeological , scenic, historic, and recreational resources (See Figure 4-2) . The City will be able to control corridor development and environmental alterations through a protection • program to be adopted as part of the Scenic High- ways Element (See Section 4. 4) . This particular roadway will provide the City with a unique oppor- tunity to establish and maintain a scenic corridor of the highest quality, combining natural and urban features. • Adft 31 • b. Edwards Street - from Garfield Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway. Refer to Section 4 . 2 .2 d. for a discussion of the • scenic potential of the Edwards Street extension from Garfield to the Coast. 4. 3 Standards for Protection? • The protection standards for resources within the scenic corridor, as described below, are designed to serve as a guide in corridor planning. All the standards are not applicable to any one corri- dor, but do suggest a wide array of protection measures that can be utilized. • 4 . 3. 1 General Plan Policy The area traversed by such highway and its corridor should have an adopted General Plan. 4. 3. 2 Land Uses • 4. 3. 2. 1 Land Use Regulations Land use consistent with policies of the General Plan should be in effect over the entire corridor. Tenta- tive map approval for subd'visions allowed in the • corridor should be subjec to conditions carrying out the intent of the scenic highway program. Possible conditions include the limiting of cut and fill , tree preservation and planting , screening, and undergrounding of utilities. • 4. 3. 2 . 2 Building Heights and Setbacks Regulations governing heights and setbacks of structures should be in effect so as not to obstruct important views. • 4. 3. 2. 3 Screening Existing or indispensable offensive land uses (e.g. , oil operations) should be screened from view or in- conspicuously located within the scenic corridor. Plant- • ing, grading, or fencing can be used to accomplish effective screening. 4. 3. 3 Signs and Outdoor Advertising • 32 ACW1 } s 4 . 3. 3 . 1 On-Premise Signs On-premise signs should be regulated regarding size, height, number, and type. 4. 3. 3. 2 Off-Premise Advertising Outdoor, off-premise advertising should be prohibited where possible . Provision should be made for eventual elimination of non-conforming structures. 4. 3. 4 Utility Lines 4. 3. 4 . 1 Underground Placement New or relocated utility lines should be placed under- ground whenever feasible. 4. 3. 4. 2 Overhead Utility Lines When overhead lines are indispensable, poles and wires should be located inconspicuously from the highway, reducing their visibility. 4 . 3. 5 Earthwork 4 . 3 . 5. 1 Earthwork Operation Grading or earth-moving operations within the scenic highway corridor should be done with a minimum of disturbance to the natural topography. 4. 3. 5. 2 Cover and Screening Screening devices compatible with the natural landscape, such as vegetative cover, should be provided to hide the disturbance due to grading. 4 . 3 . 5. 3 Erosion Control Adequate erosion control measures should be provided. 4 . 3. 5. 4 Water Edges Edges of water developments should be treated to result in naturalistic forms. 4. 3. 6 Plant Material Existing specimens and stands of trees and other plant materials of outstanding value should be preserved. Aft 33 • 4. 3. 7 Development Design Site planning and architectural and landscape design • should result in an attractive appearance from the highway, and a harmonious relationship among the various elements of the development. Architectural control , for example, could possibly be provided as a matter of policy for all structures constructed within scenic highway corridors. • 4. 3. 8 Property Maintenance Structures on private properties especially visible from the highway should be maintained in good condition. An ordinance could require structures to be maintained • in good condition and with proper attention to neat appearance. If owner does not comply, property would be posted as a nuisance for a specified period of time. If owner still does nothing , the work would be contracted out and property would be assessed for work performed. Anti-litter control should also be incorporated into • a maintenance program. 4. 3. 9 Public Uses Public uses within the corridor by all levels of government should be encouraged to obtain total aesthetic • control. 4. 3. 10 Treatment of the Right-of-Way Treatment of the landscaping and the handling of struc- tures within the right-of-way should be guided by the following criteria: a. Grading, planting, and irrigation should be required to the extent necessary to create a scenic effect and highlight attractive urbanscapes. • b. Bridges, culverts , drainage ditches and other highway appurtenances should follow special design standards expressing the qualities of the scenic highway as distinct from other highways. 4 . 3. 11 Treatment of the Roadway The roadway should be subordinated to the landscape by: a. Minimizing cut and fill; • b. Utilizing vegetation and topography to screen off 34 ACW Af Ili 's • unsightly areas from the roadway; C. Introducing curves, taking advantage of natural or man- made features. 4. 4 Local Scenic Route Program Preservation of scenic resources requires that regulations and pro- tection standards be adopted and implemented before development takes • place. At this point in time, when the City' s Land Use Element of the General Plan is being amended and the Circulation Element is being pre- pared, it is most appropriate that controls on development within scenic corridors be imposed to assure the existence of scenic values for generations to come. • In keeping with this line of reasoning, a program is being proposed for the establishment of a local scenic route system for the City of Huntington Beach. The intent of the system is to protect and enhance local scenic areas traversed by highways. Pacific Coast Highway be- tween the Santa Ana River and Anaheim Bay is the backbone of the local system. Pacific Coast Highway, although eligible for official desig- nation as a State Scenic Highway, will be treated as a local scenic route until such official designation is actually obtained. The supporting arterial link into Pacific Coast Highway in five locations (see Figure 4-5) . As can be seen from comparing Figures 4-1 and 4-5 (potential routes vs. proposed system) , Garfield Avenue and the Lake Street realignment were discounted in favor of Mansion Avenue as the connecting link between Lake Street (at its present termination) and Gothard and Goldenwest Streets. The extension of Lake Street from Mansion to Garfield is designated to border the transportation corridor; for this reason, it was felt that a conflict might arise between the potential alignment and a possible mass • transit system now under study by the Orange County Transit District. The relationship of the City' s bike trail system to the proposed scenic route system is illustrated in Figure 4-6 . Figure 4-7 shows how the proposed system of scenic routes relates to certain open space re- sources in the City which, as a group, have potential as a local green belt system. It could be argued that certain areas adjoining the roadways included in the system have little to no scenic quality. However, development of the remaining vacant areas adjoining these roadways under a program of development control, as outlined on the following pages, could • transform these areas into ones of high scenic value. The program an- ticipates full development of the City, and is designed toward that en It is also important to note that the proposed scenic route system is by no means "fixed" . It is flexible and should be molded in conjunc- tion with future planning efforts to realize the maximum benefit for • existing and future residents and visitors. In particular, should 35 .. . • Fi o • . R«SA � R �. •.•„r eryx+a • . _........ ___ . _ .... ...- -' .. met . _.. 1�% ` \ .,..... • ._ '+w LEGEND ' OARFIELD EXISTINGROADWAY ` - .....,..�.... ................L..........._........__.__........-:-.............._--_...............: i YORKTOWN •••• ••• POTENTIAL REALIGNMENT �.. -- EXTENSION(AS DEPICTED ON �, �� "OJ1N5 THE MASTER PLAN OF ARTERIAL `�, • %' HIGHWAYS) . .. _..._. M�ANA►OLIB ................._.. ............. ATLANTA .... ..:.,..w..,,..,.,,,..y................e-- HAMLTON � ..................y._.._ RANNRJO Y J Fig. 4-5 PROPOSED SCENIC ROUTE PROGRAM huntington beach planning department 36 ,. tK]LSA c _. ku T x p „, ,,., ..o.o..a. .............-.. TALBW • `. ^.. RIJS �r LEGEND ——----........... GARNFLD PROPOSED SCENIC /� -- ROUTE TORKTowN -- BIKE LANE - \ -. � ...,i,..... ... ADAMS -- BIKE PATH { ;/. �, ....�......................... ............ .-..- -...-..... .. INDIANAYOLK r;_ w � -.4 ��•• ATLANTA a. .......... ..•. �� HAMLTON � BANNING \ �I Fig. 4-6 BIKE TRAIL MAP J,f j7 1 huntington beach planning department • 37 • the potential realignments (now a part of the proposed system) be altered prior to adoption or deleted altogether, the scenic route system will still function effectively. The system would merely be readjusted to incorporate the alignments as they are finally adopted. It should also be noted that the proposed scenic route program is a long-range program intended to be implemented over time. Phasing of the program will be such that only the program' s most basic provisions will be implemented in the short-range. And then, over the long-term as budgetary constraints permit, additional aspects of the program will be implemented. In light of the previous discussion, the following recommendations are being made : Signing 1. Post signs denoting the local scenic routes . Possible locations include the beginning and end of each scenic route. Public Information 2. Establish two information centers to distribute • circulars on the local scenic route system. These centers could also be used to hand out information on bike paths, what to do in Huntington Beach, and any promotional material that the City wishes to distribute. The two locations would be adjacent to scenic routes at the Huntington Beach Pier (on Pacific • Coast Highway) and Huntington Central Park (on Golden- west Street) . Landscaping 3. Continue existing program of landscaping all major, primary, and secondary arterial highways with street • trees. 4. Continue existing program of constructing landscaped medians along specific streets in the City. The location of landscaped medians is a function of a street' s: (a) traffic volume • (b) arterial highway classification (c) relationship to the City Entrance Program. 5. Readjust priority listing of median and roadway landscaping to ensure that scenic routes are landscaped as soon as practical. • 6. Landscape all scenic routes consistently to make it apparent that a specific roadway is a part of the scenic route system. • 38 ACWX • as Qot� a�aa Gb 1ba p0 !y • op SAP O M 9'p0:nr°' eaa1 ,ryoo yG +oa0 00 x ,� 6G .X G%� Z 1 X X • t: ssaP 1 1 < f 1 X r � L '... .. �i >,,.. ..... PAgFIC" .. .. cbn3� Beach..: . :: ,.: � .: ,:; <:... : :.:.:..:.:.:. LEGEND Fig.4-7 HUNTINGTON BEACH CALIFORNIA PLANNING DEPARTMENT • Flood Control Channels -�---� R-E. Right Of Way 4+— Edison Easements ----- Bluff Lines POSSIBLE GREENBELT SYSTEM • • 7 . Upgrade landscape treatment along local scenic routes, over and above the regular treatment, as • budget permits. Land Use and Development Controls 8 . Enforce the existing land use plan through the City' s zoning ordinance to assure compatibility of uses. 9. Impose grading restrictions on development within the scenic corridor, limiting cut and fill in the interests of aesthetics. • 10. Require tree preservation by development within the scenic corridor. 11. Require landscaping in planned developments within the corridor that reflects the character of the scenic route program. 12 . Require the screening of offensive land uses within the scenic corridor to improve the view from the road. Planting, grading, and/or fencing could be employed to achieve the desired effect. 13. Require the undergrounding of utilities in all new development and the long-range, phased undergrounding of utilities in existing developments whenever feasible. 14. Impose building height and setback regulations on all development within the scenic corridor. • 15. Impose sign controls throughout the scenic corridors. 16. Utilize the City' s Design Review Board to: (a) control the development of civic facilities and civic districts within the scenic corridors to promote aesthetic harmony. (b) insure consistency of architectural design and materials on property within the corridor to be owned, controlled, or dedicated to the City of Huntington Beach. 17 . Utilize the City' s Subdivision Committee to establish setbacks along scenic routes to permit landscaping between the sidewalk and block wall. • 39 • • 18 . Instigate a Neighborhood Conservation Program to insure strict compliance with the City' s Ordinance Code governing nuisances (e .g. weeds , inoperable vehicles, and rubbish accumulation) . 19. Amend the Ordinance Code to include a Scenic Corridor District. District regulations would focus on the appearance and state of repair of structures within the District. • 20. Encourage the City' s Department of Building and Community Development to inspect property within the District for compliance with the Code . Turn-Outs • 21. Construct a turnout as a view point along one of the existing local routes as budget permits. A possible location is along Pacific Coast Highway where the bluff line approaches Route 1. The highway is unusually wide in this location and is presently • used for ocean viewing by motorists. 22 . Include turnouts in the design of future highway extensions and realignments, to be constructed as development occurs. Examples include the Bolsa Chica and Edwards Streets extensions. • 4 .4 . 1 Analysis Goals and policies in the planning process encourage con- sistent and rational decision making in the use and deve- lopment of land. They are maxims to guide land development decisions. Policies, in particular, give direction to the urban planning process, but they also become conditioned by the findings and proposals developed by the planning process. At this stage in the formulation of the plan for a system • of local scenic routes, it is appropriate to reanalyze the goals and policies stated in Section 2 . 0 and their correlation with the actual plan itself. The goal and policy statements, taken as a whole, serve as the comprehensive directive by which the Local Scenic • Route Plan and Program were prepared. After review, it is apparent that the goals and policies are being effec- tively served by the plan and program: • 40 • 1. Protection and enhancement of scenic areas traversed by highways will be insured through implementation • of the protection program outlined in Section 4 .4 . 2. The concept of the "complete highway" will be en- couraged through the program' s emphasis on safety, utility, economy, and beauty. • 3 . The program does impose certain land use and develop- ment controls to direct the occurrence of development within the scenic corridor. However, it does not dictate undue restrictions on private property nor constrict the normal flow of traffic. • a. The economic implications of the program's pro- visions were thoroughly considered so as not to impose an undue financial burden on the developer or the City of Huntington Beach. b. The program was developed in conformance with the provisions of the Circulation Element of the General Plan now being prepared by the Planning Department. Therefore, the street configurations as shown in Figure 4-5 have been analyzed in terms of traffic flow and their ability to promote effective circulation. • 4 . The Local Scenic Route Plan and Program establishes The City' s responsibility for the protection and enhancement of scenic values within the local circu- lation system. • 5. The plan and program incorporate the goals of the City' s General Plan, as they relate to conservation and land use control. 6. The network of local trails and possible. greenbelts was coordinated with the local scenic route system, • as illustrated in Figures 4-6 and 4-7 . 7 . Sign controls will be imposed in the scenic corridor under the provisions of the program. Off-site sign controls will provide for the eventual elimination of billboards along Pacific Coast Highway. • 4. 5 Cost Analysis The cost analysis will provide a rough estimate of costs to be in- curred through implementation of the Local Scenic Route Program. The analysis is presented in two parts : • 41 • • (1) Initial costs - costs which will be incurred when the Local Scenic Route Program is initiated. • (2) Long range costs - costs which will be incurred in the distant future, dependent upon the pattern of future development. The costs are presented in 1974 dollars. • 4 . 5. 1 Initial Cost Costs resulting from the initial implementation of the Local Scenic Route Program are signing, information centers, and increased manpower. • 4 .5. 1. 1 Signing Local scenic route signs will be used to designate the beginning and end of each scenic route. These signs will be located only on the existing roadways. These roadways are: Pacific Coast Highway, Warner Avenue, Goldenwest Street, Mansion Avenue, and Lake Street. Ten signs will be required (two color, 16" x 11" , non-reflec- tive) , resultinq in a cost of $220 or $22 per sign. These costs are based on a per unit price; however, some parts (e.g posts) require minimum orders and may result in a higher cost • 4 . 5 . 1. 2 Information Centers Two information centers will be established, located at Huntington Central Park and the Municipal Pier. The centers will be constructed of wood and glass, similar • in appearance to the one illustrated in Figure 4-8. A cost of roughly $500 will be incurred through construction of the two information centers. 4 . 5 . 1. 3 Additional Manpower • An additional Building Inspector will be needed to enforce the regulations governing the scenic routes and adjacent corridors. The additional manpower will allow for inspection four times per year of the 22 miles of roadway under local control within the system. The • estimated cost to the City would be approximately $20 , 000 per year, which includes salary and overhead. This is a recurring cost on an annual basis throughout the dura- tion of the program. 4 .5. 2 Long Range Costs i The long-range costs that would result from implementing 42 Aft • • • • s s- 6� • • r HFTI r� Fig. 4-8 INFORMATION CENTER 43 • the Local Scenic Route Program are: additional signing, turnouts, undergrounding of utilities, and increased landscaping. These costs are presented in 1974 dollars as the time of development has not yet been established. 4 .5 . 2 . 1 Increased Signing An increase in signing will occur as future scenic routes are constructed. These roadways are: Bolsa Chica Street extension, Edwards Street extension and realignment, Ellis Avenue realignment, and the realigned section of Gothard Street. A total of eight signs will be needed to designate the scenic routes. This will result in a total cost of $182 or $22 per sign (in 1974 dollars) . 4. 5. 2. 2 Turnouts A typical turnout was designed to provide a basic cost estimate (see Figure 4-9) . This turnout would apply to most locations and would accommodate approximately 30 automobiles and four autos with trailers. The total cost would be approximately $16, 900; however, this figure does not include the cost of acquiring privately owned land. A summary of costs for the development of a turnout is provided in Figure 4-10. 4 . 5. 2 . 3 Undergrounding of Utilities There are several areas along the proposed scenic routes which are fully developed that have overhead utility lines. The • Local Scenic Route Program proposes the long-range, phased undergrounding of these utilities. Such a proposal can be accomplished through the use of an Underground Utility Dis- trict. Through the use of this vehicle, the cost of under- grounding utilities is partially absorbed by the Southern California Edison Company under P.U.C. Rule 20. The Edison • Company then assumes the $30 to $40 per linear foot cost for undergrounding the utilities within the public right-of-way. The private homeowner would also have to assume a cost of $500 to connect the residence to the main utility lines. No cost would be incurred by the City unless it absorbs all or a portion of the $500 cost of connecting residences to the main • lines. 4. 5. 2. 4 Increased Quality of Landscaping The local Scenic Route Program proposes a long-term increase in the quality of landscaping along scenic routes. This will increase the initial cost of landscaping by one-third. The • current cost of landscaping is $6. 60 per square foot; the proposal will increase the cost to $8. 80 per square foot. The increase in the quality of landscaping will not affect the level of maintenance; therefore, the costs for upgraded landscaping are a one-time cost. • 44 Aft OF • c- PARKING Fig. 4-9 TURNOUT S I Ficture 4-10 COSTS FOR A TYPICAL TURNOUT � . (1974 Dollars) Material and Work Cost Per Unit Quantity Total Cost • Excavation and paving $. 69/sq.ft. 19, 485 sq. ft. $13 , 445 Curb and Gutter $3/lin. ft. 650 lin.ft. 1, 950 Signing i Turnout $34 2 68 • Entrance $34 1 34 Exit $34 1 34 • Landscaping and Irrigation $6. 60 210 1 ,386 TOTAL $16, 917 • • 46 F! IMF • section 5 summary 5. 0 SUMMARY As explained in Section 1, the purpose of this Element is to pro- vide for the preservation of urban and natural scenic resources adjoining roadways. This particular section of the report sets f forth for adoption a recommended goal and policies statement; a program for obtaining official state scenic highway status for Pacific Coast Highway; and a local scenic route plan and protection program. 5. 1 Goal and Policies Statement Goal and policies statements have been formulated to provide basic guiding principles for future growth in scenic areas traversed by roadways. Generally, the goal and policies reflect the state- ments in the adopted Policy Plan as it relates to scenic resources and aesthetic values. It is intended that the goal and policies be adopted as an integral part of the Scenic Highways Element. AdWk --_J 5. 1 . 1 Proposed Goal and Policies The following statements are proposed for adoption as the development goal and policies for scenic areas traversed by roadways: 5. 1. 1. 1 Goal • To protect and enhance the scenic areas traversed by roadways. 5. 1. 1. 2 Objectives ti a. To serve the open space objectives of recreation, t enhancement of life, and management of incompatible development of areas which should be preserved for historic, conservation, or public health and safety purposes. b. To promote the achievement of a "complete highway" which incorporates safety, utility, economy, and beauty with the surrounding environment. C. To maintain and enhance a scenic route as an integral part of the setting through which it passes without , imposing undue restrictions on private property or constricting the normal flow of traffic. 5.1 . 1. 3 Policies 1. Establish the City' s responsibility for the pro- tection and enhancement of scenic values within the local circulation system. 2. Encourage the development of a system of local scenic routes within the City, to be enjoyed by all residents and visitors. 3 . Incorporate the applicable goals of the City' s General Plan (e.g. conservation and land use control) into the plans for a local scenic route system. 4. Direct development within the scenic corridor in a way compatible with the protection of scenic values. 5. Coordinate the local scenic route system with a network of trails and greenbelts. t 6. Encourage the development of a comprehensive program a for undergrounding utilities. I 48 • s 7 . Improve and enforce standards for commercial signs . 8 . Eliminate billboards throughout the entire shoreline area. 5. 2 Program for Pacific Coast Highway r Also presented for adoption is a program to obtain official State scenic highway status for Pacific Coast Highway - from the Santa Ana River to Anaheim Bay. The recommendations are as follows : 1. Prepare and adopt a zoning district to govern development within the corridor, thereby protecting and enhancing scenic values. The zoning district would include regulations pertaining to: a. architectural review b. site plan review C. land uses d. building heights and setbacks e. density f. building coverage g. lot area h. on-and off-premise signs i. screening and landscaping j . historical preservation k. cut and fill operations 2. Coordinate with the utility companies to underground overhead utilities where possible. Require underground utilities in new developments wherever possible. 3. Enforce maintenance controls, including but not limited to, the following: a. Uniform Building Code . b. Fire Prevention Code ACWk 49 s C. Litter Control d. Weed Control 4 . Utilize conservation and planning legislation wherever applicable to enhance and protect aesthetic and scenic values. An example is the California Land Conservation Act which makes provision r to preserve agricultural, scenic corridor, and open space land. 5. 3 Proposed Local Scenic Route System The following pages present a diagram of the proposed system of local scenic routes (Figure 5-1) , and a protection program to assure the existence of scenic values for generations to come. It is important to note that the proposed scenic route system is by no means "fixed" . It is flexible and should be molded in conjunction with future planning efforts to realize the maximum benefit for existing and future residents and visitors. In particular, should the potential realignments (now a part of the proposed system) be a altered prior to adoption or deleted altogether, the scenic route system will still function effectively. The system would merely be readjusted to incorporate the alignments as they are finally adopted. The recommended program includes: Signing 1. Post signs denoting the local scenic routes. Possible locations include the beginning and end of each scenic route. Public Information 2. Establish two information centers to distribute circulars on the i j local scenic route system. These centers could also be used to hand out information on bike paths, what to do in Huntington Beach, and any promotional material that the City wishes to distribute. The two locations would be adjacent to scenic routes at the Huntington Beach Pier (on Pacific Coast Highway) and Huntington Central Park (on Goldenwest Street) . Landscaping 3 . Continue existing program of landscaping all major, primary, and secondary arterial highways with street trees . *j 4 . Continue existing program of constructing landscaped medians along specific streets in the City. The location of landscaped medians is a function of a street' s: (a) traffic volume (b) arterial highway classification (c) relationship to the Cit Entrance Program. 50 i X _...__ Akfoam .................-0. ...... ..... _ ,n ...................... ._._.... .......-. �,. ' f VAMIT LEGEND EXISTING ROADWAY ` `... . ......... ...........- L VMTOWN .... ..• POTENTIAL REALIGNMENT ----- EXTENSION(AS DEPICTED ON THE MASTER PLAN OF ARTERIAL HIGHWAYS) \ ;...... ........._ _ .._......... INDI.NA.OLIS w� J ............. woos+ �M q�a ; uNwr•o Fig.5-1 PROPOSED SCENIC • C ROUTE PROGRAM huntington leach planning department 51 5. Readjust priority listing of median and roadway landscaping to ensure that scenic routes are landscaped as soon as practical . 6. Landscape all scenic routes consistently to make it apparent that a specific roadway is a part of the scenic route system. 7 . Upgrade landscape treatment along local scenic routes, over and above the regular treatment, as budget permits. Land Use and Development Controls 8 . Enforce the existing land use plan through the City' s zoning ordinance to assure compatibility of uses. 9. Impose grading restrictions on development within the scenic corridor, limiting cut and fill in the interests of aesthetics. 10. Require tree preservation by development within the scenic corridor. 11. Require landscaping in planned developments within the corridor that reflects the character of the scenic route program. 12. Require the screening of offensive land uses within the scenic corridor to improve the view from the road. Planting, grading, and/or fencing could be employed to achieve the desired effect. 13. Require the undergrounding of utilities in all new development and the long-range, phased undergrounding of utilities in existing developments whenever feasible. 14. Impose building height and setback regulations on all development within the scenic corridor . 15. Impose sign controls throughout the scenic corridors. 16. Utilize the City' s Design Review Board to: (a) control the development of civic facilities and civic districts within the scenic corridors to promote aesthetic harmony. (b) insure consistency of architectural design and materials on property within the corridor to be owned , controlled, or dedicated to the City of Huntington Beach. 17 . Utilize the City' s Subdivision Committee to establish setbacks along scenic routes to permit landscaping between the sidewalk, and block wall . 52 A11h. i • 18 . Instigate a Neighborhood Conservation Program to insure strict compliance with the City's Ordinance Code governing nuisances (e.g. weeds, inoperable vehicles, and rubbish accumulation) . s 19. Amend the Ordinance Code to include a Scenic Corridor District. District regulations would focus on the appearance and state ! of repair of structures within the District. 20. Encourage the City' s Department of Building and Community Development to inspect property within the District for compliance with the Code. • Turnouts 21. Construct a turnout as a view point along one of the existing local routes as budget permits. A possible location is along Pacific Coast Highway where the bluff line approaches Route 1. The highway is unusually wide in this location and is presently • used for ocean viewing by motorists. 22. Include turnouts in the design of future highway extensions and realignments, to be constructed as development occurs. Examples include the Bolsa Chica and Edwards Streets extensions. 53 • • section b environmental impact report 1 i i i i • 1 6. 0 ENVIRONP4ENTAL IMPACT REPORT 6.1 This Environmental Impact Report for the Scenic Highways Element has been prepared in accordance with the "Revised Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970" and the California Council on Intergovernmental Relations ' (CIR) "General Plan Guidelines" of September, 1973. As stated in the CEQA Guidelines: "The EIR may be prepared as a separate document, or as part of a project report. If prepared as a part of the • project report, it must still contain in one separate and distinguishable section the elements required of an EIR, including the seven elements specified in Section 15143 of these Guidelines. " (Section 15061, d. ) In addition, the CIR Guidelines give further direction for prepara- tion of an EIR on a General Plan Element: The environmental impact evaluation can and should be an ongoing process in the preparation of the General Plan so that in effect the General Plan report becomes its own environmental impact analysis . This process may well require the documentation and exposure of development alternatives with less detrimental impacts on the environment which have been heretofore rejected in the interest of providing enhanced community facilities, economic growth and opportunity, and improved housing. It should be recalled that one of the purposes of the environmental impact report is to expose alternatives to public view and comment. 55 i Given the nature of the document as a long-range set of policies and principles, it is not always practical to apply each of the seven points noted in the CEQA with the same degree of specificity that ! is applied to a specific project. The General Plan environmental analysis should take on broader scope than the analysis which is done on a spcific project which has specific, well defined limits . The following is an attempt to discuss each of the seven points in the CEQA. with regard to the type of impact assessment which should be part of the General Plan. If these issues are included in the ! ' planning process then the General Plan can contain its own impact j statement. a. The Environmental Impact of the Proposed Action The policy alternatives generated by the plan development process which concern the commitment of land resources (particularly land use, circulation and housing) should undergo an environmental analysis so that the extent of the impact of varying levels of density and intensity of use can be projected. Where specific areas are treated in the General Plan, the more specific the delineation of the policy, the ! easier it will be to evaluate the impact. Since the General Plan is a long term policy guide, long range impacts should be discussed in sufficient detail so that both beneficial and adverse impacts can be evaluated. b. Any Adverse Environmental Effects Which Cannot be Avoided if The Proposal is Implemented This provision relates more to a specific proposal than necessarily to a General Plan or plan element. The policy alternatives in the General Plan and the options for specific action in the elements should describe adverse impacts which ! may not be avoided if a particular alternative was adopted. Within this description, the benefits of a particular alterna- tive should also be discussed. C. Mitigating Measures Proposed to Minimize the Impact a This section again refers to the evaluation of a specific proposal where an adverse impact may result but where concensus within the planning process determines that the option is of such community importance to be implemented, then mitigating measures should be discussed. Mitigation measures can be addressed in short-range or precise plans. d. Alternatives to the Proposed Action In the development cf the General Plan and subsequent elements, alternatives which are proposed should have a general statement on the relative degree of environmental impact on each of the alternatives . Where one alternative would create a greater impact than another, more detailed assessment should be made. 56 AM x i e. The Relationship Between Local Short-Term Uses of Man' s Environment and the Maintenance and Enhancement of Long- Term Productivity In preparing the General Plan there should be sufficient analysis to describe the relationship between short-term uses of man' s environment and long-term productivity. These are fundamental long-range policy choices which the planning process should address. Careful analysis of this issue will provide a sound balance between economic development and environmental protection. f. Any Irreversible Environmental Changes Which Would be Involved in the Proposed Action Should it be Implemented The General Plan commits various uses of man' s environment. Where implementation of the General Plan would cause any adverse irreversible environmental changes, the benefits to be secured by the changes should be clearly evaluated on balance against the environment losses. lip g. The Growth Inducing Impact of the Proposed Action The principles and policies of the General Plan all have an impact on community growth and development. Evaluation of the impact of the population growth policies should be a ! primary subject of consideration in the formulation of the General Plan. Keeping these instructions in mind, this impact report will be a general analysis of the impact of the Scenic Highways Element on the community environment. This environment consists of Land Resources, Water Resources , Air Resources, Biological Resources, and Cultural Resources. Figure 6-4 contains an environmental assessment matrix which analyzes the potential impacts of the pro- posed local scenic route plan on these environmental categories. Potential impacts, either positive or negative, will be identified on the following pages. It is the nature of the General Plan elements to be broad policy documents to guide subsequent specific actions; and because of the broad policies of the Scenic Highways Element, it is impossible to assess the specific problems which may arise as development occurs . Therefore, this EIR is intended to be the first of a series of environmental assessments , with the final assessment made at the project level . Accordingly, this EIR cannot be used as the basis for a categorical exemption for any proposed project, even though it be in conformance with the General Plan. Abk I 57 i All of the detailed impacts that might conceivably occur as a result of this General Plan element cannot be completely dealt with in a report of this scope. However, it is the intent of this report ! to outline those impacts which are anticipated in the greatest detail possible. 6.? Description of Program 6 . 2. 1 Location Figure 6-1 depicts the area to be influenced by this Element. Including the incorporated City of Huntington Beach, the territory between the city limits and the center line of the Santa Ana River Channel, and the unincorporated Bolsa Chica and Sunset Beach vicinity, this area is designated as the Huntington Beach "Sphere of Influence" . Located along the coast of Southern California in the County of Orange, this 18 , 700 acres is bounded by the Cities of Seal Beach, Westminster, ! Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa. Figure 6-2 places the City in regional perspective. 6. 2. 2 General Description When adopted, the state-mandated Scenic Highways Element will become a Citywide Element of the General Plan of the City of Huntington Beach. Figure 6-3 indicates how the Plan will fit into the City ' s Comprehensive General Plan Program. Additional discussion of the purpose and function of the Element is contained in Section 1. 1 of the Element, and in Section 5 of Introduction to the General PlaL 8 6. 2. 3 Objectives of the Plan In general , the goal of the Scenic Highways Elements is to protect and enhance the scenic areas traversed by roadways ! in Huntington Beach. Additional objectives and policies are identified in Sections 2. 2 . 2 and 2 .2 . 3 of the Element. 6. 3 Environmental Setting Huntington Beach is a metropolitan area in a metropolitan county, and as such its environment -- both local and regional is primarily an urban one. Even in this urban area, however, scenic resources remain with the potential for improving the quality of life for all residents of the community. 58 Adft i MCI VZZZZ"ZA o 11 plo 0 OPO, 0 W/1' ,vo M11111,Moo M VERY, EN 11/010 rl '0 "oo, oW 11 'o �o 'M 10 NO, IBM o I won �&oyzzzzj a A AD A OM vENT,1RA FRWY. w rdoom _ww— ' �SAOENA Y O 101 �O oASADENA �F�NW FOOTHILL FRWY. f9 /11 � � HOLLYWOOD0 �� ,_._. OALHAMBRA ---- OEL MONTE COVINAO SAN BERNARDINO FRI ,. �..,� OPOMONA UCLA POM ONA FRVIY ,/ O SAN 1A MOEIIGa 10 60 O1NDI./STRY� I ' 009 1J 7 �° 9, SANTA N U.S.C. CITY OF ° MONICA vs LOS ANGELE COMMERCE r O OPICO RIVERA ;rt4 3 5 7 L A INTERNATIONAL 2 AIRPORT x `i O OWHITTIER HUN71NGTON 7 oP� L A. Co. EL SEGUN00 PARK ` / 405 11 OSANTA FE ORANGE co. I SPRINGS U BREAO MANHATTANO , W g5g5 qc BEACH GARDENAO m v PLACENTIA ARTESIA FRWY. _li O U, �tata ��� mr� �_ FUIIERTON .11 AIRPORT . CAL STATE CO,.IEGE Off„ 'fC PARK ` r---I AT FULIERTON O PARK �—;VJ OFULL'RTON O REDONDOO CAOON W / RIVERSIDE FRWY r BEACH O 91 a TORRANCE ® u /p 1 ba T7 LONG BEACH r ', OANAHEIM O AIRPORT PALOS VERDES o a ' O VILLA PARK CE ESTATES / LONG a H CAL STATE COILEGEN a BEACH/� L AT LONG BEACH OGARDEN GROVE ; SAN GARDEN GROVE FRWY \ �22 OTUSTIN PEDROO `` GOLDEN WEST f ` COLLEGE SANTAO ANA olcFunt��gtoh $AN S�ti A/� , ` 0,fC0 r7 1/V NEWPORT �.+ BEACH ` FRw� ` '� RANGE CO. 4,r ` O AIRPORT , 0 5 111% LA U C IRVINE 133 �q ` /SCALE IN MILES , BEACH�� BE AC.'H VICINITY MAP FIGURE 6-2 FIGURE 6- 3 RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN MASTER PLAN AND COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS Existing Master Plans Comprehensive General Plan Land Use Land Use Non-Structural Blight, Land Use/Circulation Element Arterial Streets and - Circulation Highways Open Space Open Space and mv Conservation Interim Open Space Conservation Element Parks , Recreation, Open Spaces and Schools Seismic Safety.., Seismic Safety - - ---- ' Safety Element Environmental Recreation Trails Safety Resource Management Noise / Program Housing Element : Phase I Scenic Highways —�'Hous ing rn 6. 3 . 1 Land Resources A general description of the land resources in the City • is pres�nted in Section 6 . 4. 1 of the Land Use Element: Phase I and updated in Section 6 . 3 . 2 . 1 of the Seismic- Safety Element10 of the General Plan. Additional information is contained in the Conservation Potentials Report, 11 Sections 2 . 1 and 3 . 0; Open Space Potentials Report, Sections 2 . 0, 3. 0 and 4 0o; Geotechnical • Inputs, 13 and Flood Hazard Study. 14 6. 3. 2 Water Resources A description of the water resources in the City is presented in Section 6. 4 .1 of the Land Use Element: • 1 Phase I (as modified by EIR addendum #10, December 7, 1973) and updated in Section 6 . 3. 2 .2 of the Seismic-Safety Element 16 of the General Plan. AdditioW information is cited in Conservation Potentials R . Sections 2 . 2 and 3 . 0; Open Space Potentials,10 Sections 2.1.1, 2.4. 2 , and 4 . 0; Flood Hazard Stud ,•rg and Fire Hazard/Fire • Protection Study, zu Section 3 . 3. 6. 3 . 3 Air Resources A description of the air resources in the City is ppresented in Section 6 . 4. 3 of the Land Use Element: Phase IZ1 and 22 • updated in Section 6 .3 . 2 . 3 of the Seismic-Safety Element. Additional discussion of air resources is presented in Conservation Potentials Report, 23 Section 2 .3. 6. 3 .4 Biological Resources A description of the biological resources in the City is presentV in Section 6. 4 . 4 of the Land Use Element: Phase I and u dated in Section 6 . 3. 2 . 4 of the Seismic- Safety Element. 5 Additional discussion and species listings are available in Conservation Potentials Report, 26 Section 2 .4 . 6. 3 . 5 Cultural Resources A description of the cultural resources in the City is presented in Section 6 .3 . 2 . 5 of the Seismic-Safety Element 27 • of the General Plan. Additiona�.information is cited in Conservation Potentials Report, Section 2. 5 , Open Space Potentials, ZV Sections 2.1. 5, 2. 1.6, and2 .30; and Scientific Resources Surveyand Inventory r 62 i • 6. 4 Local Scenic Route Program The proposed local scenic route plan and program is set forth in Section 4 . 4 . The following paragraphs analyze the possible con- sequences of these proposals. 6. 4 . 1 Environmental Impacts and Mitigating Measures ' The environmental impacts of this 22-point program are diagrammed in Figure 6 -4 . No significant impact is probable on land and water resources. The following resources would be affected, however: 6.4 . 1. 1 Air Resources A local scenic route system will increase traffic on the scenic routes by residents and visitors. An increase in air pollution will subsequently result. Although the proposal will not by itself have a substantial effect on air quality within the South Coast Regional Air Basin, its effect must be con- sidered as an increment in the cumulative degradation of air quality in the basin. The increase in traffic will also increase vehicle noise, one of the main sources of noise in the City. • The network of local trails was coordinated with the scenic route system. This was done to maximize recreation and open space benefits, as well as en- courage cycling as an alternate, non-polluting mode of transportation for viewing scenic resources in the City. 6. 4 . 1. 2 Biological Resources • Natural vegetation and wildlife habitat may be destroyed through the undergrounding of utilities in new develop- ments and the construction of turnouts. Vegetation will experience a beneficial impact, however, from the program' s landscaping and tree preservation provisions. • 6 . 4 . 1 . 3 Cultural Resources Scenic vistas and aesthetics will experience a bene- ficial impact under almost every provision of the local scenic route program. Identification of scenic vistas through an information program; regulation of landscaping, land use, and development; instigation of a Neighborhood Conservation Program; construction of 63 • + Beneficial - Detrimental ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS MATRIX ve Figure 6-4 �y Specific Impact OImpactl qG Land Air Bio Cultura Term Type v w > N �d O U H -P z Proposal 0+'� .9 0 u b p � to ro 4J rl U H � W b voi a s a, 4 4-1 H -P U •,i U a) +� a H � a) 4 b •H r-I bi a) to W b O 9 0 9 4J v o 0 0 w o ­+ a) v w a N cn o 0 3 a z 3 > cn x N w a cn w A 1. Post signs denoting local scenic routes * - - + - - - 2 . Establish two information centers * - - + + - 3 . Continue existing street tree landscaping program * + + + 4 . Continue existing median landscaping program * + + + 5. Readjust priority listing of median and roadway landscaping * + + 6. Landscape all scenic routes consistently * + + 7. Upgrade landscape treatment along scenic routes over the long-term * + + + - 8 . Enforce the existing land use plan * + + 9. Impose grading restrictions on development within scenic corridors * + + + + + + - 10. Require tree preservation by de velopment within the corridors * + + +LI.L + + - • 0 0 0 0 • 0 0 + Beneficial - Detrimental ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS MATRIX ve Figure 6-4 �y Specific Impact OImpactl qG Land Air Bio Cultura Term Type to A a) 4j 0 O U .,1 N49 r+ z Proposal E� .0 o En (a � 44 4J �d Ei >4 a) cn +J S4 O 1 M (n LY, $4 •eq a) -4 --W . 4 O 44 O +� 4-a •.� 0) r I L� � U) r-O a) rO a) -W 4J 44 A a) >4 o 4J a a •H ­4 (0 •V-+ �q 0) w U) cn ro o o r. -W �4 U O o o ••+ a M 0 o v U -H a) s4 U o 40 0 a s F 0 0 3 a z s > cn x Ei w a cn as o 11 . Require landscaping in planned developments within the corridors that reflects the character of the program * + + + 12 . Require the screening of offen- sive land uses within the corridors * ± + + + + 13 . Require the undergrounding of utilities: a. in all new developments within the corridors b. in existing developments - 14 . Impose building height and setback regulations * + + 15. Impose sign controls through- out the scenic corridors * + + 16. Utilize the City' s Design Review Board to : a. control the development of civic facilities and civic districts * + + b. insure consistency of architectural design and materials within the corridors * + + + Beneficial - Detrimental ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS MATRIX Ove Figure 6-4 y Specific Impact IImpactl �7 �G Land Air Bio Cultural Term Type N4J b O U fq +, 49 •9 En z Proposal �+`� w o 0 0 W0 H 0 W a� (aW a 01 >1 44 41 rtl I~ EH �4 cA 4 rl fa U )-4 N •14 r S4 O I tT N W W -H a) •-1 41 -H O 4 4-4 O 4J 44 •ri M •11 b}.I O r- O �i cn '0 N r. 4J -W 44 Z tr �4 C) �4 o 4J I~ a •- 4-)•-1 , a) (d •,+ r-+ rr W N (a ro o c o c 4j s4 u o 0 0 •-1 w ro 0 o •-f v 0 �+ a� �4 u o 40 0 a 4 a E4 cn 0 0 3 0 z 3 > M x E4 w a cn cp ca 17 . Establish setbacks along scenic routes to permit landscaping between the sidewalk and block wall * + + + + + 18 . Instigate a Neighborhood Conservation Program 19. Amend the Ordinance Code to include a Scenic Corridor District * + + ± + + + - + + + + - 20. Encourage the City' s Department of Building and Community Development to inspect property within the District * + + - 21. Construct a turnout along an existing roadway designated as a scenic route * - + - - - - + + + - 22 . Include turnouts in the design of future local scenic routes turn-outs; all are factors which will maintain and enhance scenic vistas in Huntington Beach while increasing the City' s aesthetic qualities. • Identification of historic sites in the City through an information program will be a beneficial impact. More people will learn of the heritage of Huntington Beach and thereby gain a better understanding of the City' s past. 6 . 4 .1. 4 Traffic Notification of the scenic route system through signing and information flyers, as well as construction of turnouts, will result in an increased traffic load on the designated roadways. Further discussion on the • increase in traffic and its possible consequences can be found in Section 6.4 .1.1. 6. 4. 1. 5 Economics The impact on economics is probably one of the most • obvious. The program is broken down into phases, however, so that the initial cost to the City of implementing the local scenic route program is limited to $20,720 (in 1974 dollars) : Ten signs $ 220 Two Information Centers $ 500 One Additional Employee $20, 000 Total $20,720 Additional costs will be incurred by the private sector, however, through the program' s provisions governing grading, tree preservation, and undergrounding of utilities in existing developments. In the future, the local scenic route program can be expanded, keeping within the prevailing budgetary • constraints. Associated costs (in 1974 dollars) are as follows: Eight additional signs for newly-constructed roads $ 182 Upgraded landscaping Add $2 .20 per square foot Turnouts $16 ,900 per turnout • 67 • • Some provisions of the scenic route program are already in effect through existing City regulations (e.g. screening, utility undergrounding in new developments , and height and setback limitations) . Although having an economic impact, these provisions are not identified as such in the matrix or text. Implementation of these provisions will not precipitate a change in economic impact over the existing situation. • 6.4 . 1. 6 Overall. Impact The columns at the right of the matrix assess overall impact: long or short-term, beneficial or detrimental. Most of the provisions are easily analyzed in this manner. In these cases , the matrix evidences the length and kind of impact. However, certain provisions cannot be adequately judged in this way (specifically Nos. 1, 2 , 21 , and 22) . The provisions governing signs , information centers, and turnouts have several associa- ted detrimental impacts , as the matrix clearly shows. However, the long-term beneficial impacts to be derived • from implementation of these provisions (in terms of scenic vistas, aesthetics , historic sites, and open space) are thought to far outweigh the associated detrimental impacts (some of which are only temporary) . 6. 5 Unavoidable Adverse Effects Among the program' s unavoidable adverse effects are: 1. economic cost to the City and private individuals; 2 . increased traffic, air pollution, and vehicle noise; 3. some wildlife displacement and removal of vegetation through the undergrounding of utilities. Other unavoidable effects are related to construction of turnouts and include a short-term increase in erosion potential and water pollution; topographic alteration; and some wildlife displacement and removal of vegetation. • 6 . 6 Alternatives to the Proposed Action 6. 6. 1 No Project An alternative of "no project" would simply mean no • plan, and this translates to only limited control of development in areas adjoining roadways which contain scenic resources. This would contribute to the degrada- tion of the quality of life in the City. • 68 ACWL • 6 . 6 . 2 Alternative Scenic Route Plans Alternatives to the proposed Scenic Highways Element were • not developed in the traditional sense where definite alternatives are proposed and one is selected. A local scenic route plan for Huntington Beach did not lend itself well to this kind of analysis. Based on the criteria de- veloped for the selection of local scenic routes, only a limited number of the City' s roadways qualified for con- sideration. Judging the total roadways that satisfied the established criteria, only one location provided alternative methods of linking the system. This was in the area of the ' Civic Center complex and Colonel Northam' s residence. As can be seen from comparing Figures 4-1 and 4-5 (potential . routes vs. proposed system) , Garfield Avenue and the Lake Street realignment were discounted in favor of Mansion Avenue as the connecting link between Lake Street (at its present termination) and Gothard and Goldenwest Streets. The rationale for making this decision is discussed in Section 4-4 of the Element. 6 . 7 Short Term Uses vs. Long-Term Productivity As part of the General Plan, the Scenic Highways Element is inherently a long-range program. As evidenced in the matrix and accompanying discussion, the overall impact of the local scenic route program is long-term and beneficial. The objective of the plan is to protect and enhance the scenic areas traversed by roadways in Huntington Beach. That is, the plan is designed to prevent the indiscriminative urban- ization of scenic areas to assure the existence of these resources for generations to come. In the short-term, urban development will be more regulated within the scenic corridors. In the long-term, scenic resources will be protected and enhanced. 6 . 8 Irreversible Environmental Changes The only significant irreversible commitment generated by this program involves the labor and materials required for signing, information centers, landscaping, and turnouts; and the topographic alteration necessary for turnout construction. 6 . 9 Growth Inducing Impact The proposed plan will not induce growth in Huntington Beach. It is recognized that growth in the City will continue for some time. This plan merely attempts to promote conservation and open space principles in the development of areas containing scenic resources. The main emphasis of the Element is to channel expected growth within scenic corridors in a manner that reduces its impact on the vital scenic resources of the City. • Aft 69 • • S@CtlOfl 7 appendix • FOOTNOTES • 1. Section 65302 (h) , California Government Code. 2. Streets and Highways Code, Annotated by the State of California, Article 2. 5, Section 260 , p. 167 . • 3. The five companies are Metromedia, Inc . (Foster & Kleiser) ; Ryan Outdoor Advertising Company; Kennedy Outdoor Advertising, Inc. ; Pacific Outdoor Advertising Company; and Holloway Outdoor Advertising Company, Inc. The complaint against • Holloway was later dismissed in December, 1971, because of inability to serve criminal summons on the corporation. 4. This discussion on Specific Plans is based on Sections 65450 and 65451 of the California Government Code. 5. The scenic potential of Pacific Coast Highway from the Santa Ana River to Anaheim Bay will not be included here as this topic has already been addressed in Section 3. 2. 2 and may be found on page 6 . The section of Lake Street from Mansion to Garfield will be discussed in Section 4. 2. 2 : Potential Realignments. 7. Based on standards promulgated by the California Department of Transportation and the Orange County Planning Department. 8 . Introduction to the General Plan, Huntington Beach Planning Department, February, 1974, pp 29-36. 9. Land Use Element: Phase 1, Huntington Beach Planning Depart- ment, December 1973 , pp 6. 8, 6. 9. 10. Seismic-Safety Element, Huntington Beach Planning Department, • August, 1974, pp 103-105. 11 . Conservation Potentials Report, Huntington Beach Planning Department, March, 1974, pp. 19-47; 133-141. 12 . Open Space Potentials, Huntington Beach Planning Department, February, 1974, pp. 17-71; 77-91; 93-110. • 13 . Geotechnical Inputs, Huntington Beach Planning Department, February, 1974 . 14. Flood Hazard Study, Huntington Beach Planning Department, • April, 1974. Atak • • 15. Land Use Element: Phase 1, op. cit. , p. 6 . 9 . 16. Seismic-Safety Element, pp. 105-106 . • 17 . Conservation Potentials Report, pp. 47-92; 133-141. i 18 . Open Space Potentials, pp. 17-25; 68-71; 93-110. • 19. Flood Hazard Study 20. Fire Hazard/Fire Protection Study, Huntington Beach Fire Department and Planning Department, July, 1974, pp. 21-24. 21 . Land Use Element: Phase 1, op. cit. , pp. 6. 9-6. 10. • 22. Seismic-Safety Element, pp. 106-107. 23 . Conservation Potentials Report, pp. 92-104. 24 . Land Use Element: Phase 1 , 2p_ cit. p. 6 . 10 . • 25. Seismic-Safety Element, p. 107 . 26. Conservation Potentials, pp. 104-124. 27. Seismic-Safety Element, op. cit. , pp. 108, 109. • 28 . Conservation Potentials Report, op. cit. , pp. 124-133. 29 . Open Space Potentials, op. cit. pp. 39-45. 30. Scientific Resources Survey & Inventory, Archaeological • Research, Incorporated, January, 1973 . Adft am R in ---1 • • 1 OF 0 • The following is a list of personnel preparing the report and their qualifications : • Edward D. Selich Planning Program- Administrator Huntington Beach Planning Department Education: B.S. Environmental Design with major in Urban • Planning, Cal Poly, Pomona, 67 units post graduate courses; Master of Urban Planning, Cal Poly, Pomona Experience: Planning Aide, City of Huntington Beach, California Urban Planner, CST Engineering Co. , Newport Beach, • California Associate Planner, City of Huntington Beach, California Senior Planner, City of Huntington Beach, California Planning Program Administrator, City of Huntington Beach, California • Professional Organizations: Associate Member, American Institute of Planners Monica Florian Senior Planner Huntington Beach Planning Department Education: B.A. University of California, Riverside A.A. Riverside City College 12 units toward Certificate in City Planning, U.C. Riverside Experience: Senior Planner, City of Huntington Beach, California Associate Planner, City of Huntington Beach, California • Assistant Planner, City of Huntington Beach, California Planner II , County of Riverside Planner I , County of Riverside Planning Technician, County of Riverside Professional Organizations: Associate Member, American Institute of Planners Phi Beta Kappa vim • • Emilie L. Johnson Assistant Planner Huntington Beach Planning Department Education: B.A. in Environmental Studies , University of California at Santa Barbara Graduate student at the University of California at Irvine in Urban Planning, to receive a Certificate in Urban Planning in March, 1975. Experience: Writing Environmental Impact Reports for a Planning/Engineering Consulting firm. Assistant Planner with the City of Huntington Beach, specializing in the environmental aspects of • Planning and focusing on the environmental elements to the City' s General Plan (e.g. , Open Space, Conservation, Scenic Highways , Seismic- Safety, Public Safety, and Noise) . Planning Aide, City of Huntington Beach, California • Professional Organizations : American Institute of Planners American Society of Planning Officials Charles H. Laumann Planning Aide Huntington Beach Planning Department Education: B.S. in Urban Planning, California State Poly- technic University, Pomona, in 1974 • Experience: Planning Aide in Advanced Planning, City of Huntington Beach, California Planning Intern, City of Fontana, California, from 1973 to 1974 F1 PF • • • The following organizations were contacted or consulted in preparation of this report: California Department of Parks and Recreation Orange County Road Department City of Irvine Hawkins-Hawkins Company, Incorporated Western Highway Products California Department of Transportation Orange County Planning Department Orange County Department of Parks and Recreation City of Huntington Beach: Department of Environmental Resources Department of Public Works Office of the City Attorney Department of Building and Community Development Aft • • • • •