Preface Executive Summary 1 - Introduction 2 - Project Description 3 - Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures 4 - Alternatives to the Project 5 - List of Persons Preparing this EIR 6 - Bibliography Appendices A - Notice of Preparation B - Responses to Notice of Preparation C - Goals, Objectives, Policies, Implementation Actions and Strategies D - General Plan Update Opinion Surveys APPENDIX C GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES, IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS AND STRATEGIES Land Use Goals and Objectives 1-LUG Promote balanced community growth and development in a planned and orderly way. 1-LUO Availability of sufficient building sites properly zoned to accommodate projected growth. 2-LUO Avoidance of future adverse environmental, public facilities and services impacts. 2-LUG Promote infill as an alternative to peripheral expansion where feasible. 3-LUO Reduction in the amount of land necessary to accommodate future growth. 4-LUO Reduction in environmental impacts associated with peripheral growth. 5-LUO Continued revitalization of central Grass Valley. 3-LUG In areas of new development, plan for a diversity of land uses and housing types, including mixed use developments. 6-LUO Reduction in congestion and travel time to acquire needed goods and services. 7-LUO Preservation of open space and unique property features. 8-LUO Provision of a full range of housing opportunities and types. 4-LUG Protect and enhance the character of established single family neighborhoods. 9-LUO Preservation of existing neighborhoods. 10-LUO Protection of present quality of life. 11-LUO Retention of historic structures and community character. 5-LUG Provide for a broad range of housing opportunities, including opportunities for low, moderate and middle income households. 12- LUO Designation of residential building sites sufficient in number and variety to meet projected demand. 13-LUO Provision of sufficient affordable housing units for those working in Grass Valley. 14-LUO Utilization of available programs to promote the construction of affordable housing. 6-LUG Promote a jobs/housing balance within the Grass Valley region in order to facilitate pleasant, convenient and enjoyable working conditions for residents, including opportunities for short home to work journeys. 15-LUO Reduction in the number of vehicle miles driven. 16-LUO An improved quality of life for those working in the Grass Valley Planning Area. 17-LUO Future employment opportunities as adults for today's youth in well paying local jobs. 7-LUG Create a healthy economic base for the community, including increasing employment opportunities through attraction of new and compatible industry and commerce, and through retention, promotion and expansion of existing businesses. 18-LUO Creation and retention of wealth in Grass Valley. 19-LUO Employment opportunities for present and future residents. 20-LUO An expanding local tax base. 21-LUO Creation of an economy conducive to quality growth and development. 8-LUG Create a sound fiscal environment for municipal government through land use planning and decision-making that ensures a positive return to the local community. 22-LUO A healthy City government and special districts. 23-LUO Adequately funded local government services. 24-LUO Ability to respond to new service demands and the needs of a changing population. 9-LUG Coordinate peripheral development with the County General Plan and appropriate entities currently providing services in the Planning Area. 25-LUO Optimization of service delivery and land use decision making. 26-LUO Avoidance of land use and inter-jurisdictional conflict. Land Use Policies 1-LUP Maintain a General Plan that reflects the needs of the total community, including residents, business and industry. 2-LUP Require adequate information when reviewing development proposals, including full environmental review and fiscal impact analyses, to assure minimization of environmental, public facilities and services impacts. 3-LUP Maintain standards for population density and building intensity for each land use category identified in the General Plan. 4-LUP Identify areas appropriate for infill development and show them on the Land Use Diagram. 5-LUP Actively market infill and available parcels during contacts with developers and community members. 6-LUP Develop a more specific development strategy for identified infill parcels following General Plan adoption. 7-LUP Utilize California Redevelopment Law to provide incentives to infill development. 8-LUP Encourage and facilitate mixed-use developments on infill sites. 9-LUP Provide for higher residential densities on infill sites and in the Downtown area. 10-LUP Annex properties within the Grass Valley Planning Area prior to or in conjunction with their development. 11-LUP Where feasible, treat newly developing areas as Planned Developments. 12-LUP Permit increases in residential density (clustering) on portions of development sites while maintaining overall density. 13-LUP Encourage convenience goods and services opportunities to be incorporated into any significant development proposal. 14-LUP Encourage incorporation of multiple family development in new development areas while maintaining high design standards. 15-LUP Identify established neighborhoods and show them on the Land Use Diagram. 16-LUP Maintain zoning that promotes protection of existing single family residential areas from inappropriate encroachments. 17-LUP Utilize California Redevelopment Law, where appropriate, to enhance older neighborhoods and protect them from blighting influences. 18-LUP Maintain an active code enforcement program. 19-LUP Provide for a workable number of neighborhood planning/improvement areas, using the General Plan Neighborhoods map as a guide. 20-LUP Avoid circulation improvements that bisect or adversely impact established neighborhoods. 21-LUP Provide for secondary housing units on single-family residential lots. 22-LUP Assure that a sufficient number of sites are zoned for multiple family use. 23-LUP Encourage mixed use developments incorporating a variety of densities on infill sites and in areas proposed for annexation. 24-LUP On large parcels, encourage clustering of residential units on the most developable portions of the site in order to reduce infrastructure and other housing-related construction costs. 25-LUP Utilize clustering and other land use techniques to protect environmentally sensitive resources, such as heritage trees and wetlands. 26-LUP In partnership with housing developers, consider use of Community Development Block Grant funds, redevelopment funds and other funding programs that may become available from time-to-time to reduce the cost of housing for low and moderate income families. 27-LUP Establish a record keeping system enabling the number of jobs created to be correlated with the number of available housing units by type within the Grass Valley Planning Area. 28-LUP Promote the construction of affordable housing utilizing the techniques and approaches described in this General Plan. 29-LUP Promote the establishment and expansion of businesses and industries offering professional, light manufacturing and technical employment opportunities related to existing and developing forms of technology. 30-LUP Encourage mixed use developments on larger parcels in newly developing areas incorporating jobs generating businesses and industry housing. 31-LUP Promote primary jobs and core employment opportunities; those that export goods while importing capital. 32-LUP Encourage development of state of the art telecommunications infrastructure to attract new employers and serve the needs of the telecommuter. 33-LUP Promote Downtown as a hub for area cultural, entertainment and retail development. 34-LUP Prepare and provide a local economic information profile to prospective new businesses. 35-LUP Recognize the importance of and encourage home-based businesses that do not conflict with the character of established neighborhoods. 36-LUP Establish and utilize methods for assessing the fiscal impacts of land use-related projects under consideration by the Planning Commission and/or City Council. 37-LUP Assure that new development pays its fair share of the cost of municipal services. 38-LUP Consider use of special assessments to pay for unique service demands. 39-LUP Assure that acceptable inter-agency agreements regarding future service and facility provision are in place prior to approval of any major new development. 40-LUP Refer all development proposals to potentially affected governmental entities for review and comment. 41-LUP Request and respond to referrals from Nevada County concerning pending land use decisions within the Grass Valley Planning Area. 42-LUP Cooperate with Nevada County to prepare a hillside/slope ordinance to regulate uniformity and appropriately develop density and intensity. 43-LUP Establish and maintain a clear boundary between the City of Grass Valley and unincorporated areas of Nevada County, beyond which urban land use types and densities will not be permitted. 44-LUP Encourage the application of City standards throughout the City's Sphere of Influence. Land Use Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-LUI Revise the zoning map to reflect new General Plan designations. 2-LUI Revise zoning text to reflect General Plan changes, including density/intensity standards for zoning districts 3-LUI Review development regulations to assure adequate project information is submitted to adequately assess and mitigate environmental and fiscal impacts. 4-LUI Establish and maintain a data base containing information needed to determine the City's jobs-housing balance. 5-LUI Review redevelopment and revitalization programs and activities, and adjust plans to meet the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan. 6-LUI Review housing code enforcement practices, and adjust as needed to meet the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan. 7-LUI Establish a neighborhood-level planning/improvement program, to be the basis for neighborhood-level service and facility planning and citizen participation in neighborhood-level decision-making. Identify and delineate neighborhoods in a pattern appropriate to neighborhood-level planning and improvement, using the General Plan Neighborhoods map as guide. 8-LUI Coordinate with LAFCo, Nevada County, and other agencies and special districts regarding provisions of this General Plan, application of General Plan provisions in unincorporated portions of the Planning Area, and the timing and directions of future annexations. 9-LUI Establish standard processes and procedures for planning, annexation, and service provision in the unincorporated Planning Area. 10-LUI Establish uniform procedures and planning requirements for SDA-designated areas. 11-LUI Review service provision/extension plans, policies, and procedures to assure compatibility with the General Plan. Circulation Goals and Objectives 1-CG Provide a circulation system that utilizes a variety of transportation modes, including alternative means of transportation. 1-CO Development of a viable pedestrian and bicycle transportation network (sidewalks, paths, lanes and trails) providing alternatives to motorized vehicular transportation. 2-CO Ongoing examination of transit opportunities and funding mechanisms. 3-CO Inclusion of alternative transportation in local and regional transportation plans, as appropriate. 2-CG Ensure that street and roadway improvements complement and support land use goals, objectives, policies and plans. 4-CO Placement of public transportation access at convenient locations. 5-CO Convenient, safe and functional facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians. 6-CO Flexible standards that respect existing neighborhoods. 7-CO Use of City standards throughout the Planning Area. 3-CG Provide for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods in a manner that respects existing neighborhoods and the natural environment. 8-CO Routing of through-traffic around neighborhoods to collector streets. 9-CO Use of traffic calming techniques to protect neighborhoods and residents from adverse traffic impacts. 10-CO Protection of stream courses, riparian areas and other natural features. 11-CO Development and implementation of a comprehensive traffic safety program, including improvement of facilities serving pedestrian needs. 4-CG Maintain, improve and expand the existing circulation and transportation system to provide reasonable ingress, egress and internal movement. 12-CO Establishment of and adherence to a functional hierarchy of streets and highways, both within the city and throughout the Planning Area. 13-CO Improvement of the transportation system to facilitate commerce and economic development. 5-CG Maintain Adequate Emergency Access 12-CO Improvement and maintenance of adequate emergency access throughout the city. Circulation Policies 1-CP Coordinate bikeway and trail system planning with Nevada County, linking the city network with similar facilities in unincorporated areas. 2-CP Plan for multi-purpose transportation/recreation bicycle and pedestrian facilities to optimize facility usage and enhance potential funding. 3-CP Improve public transportation to better link existing and future residential areas with high traffic generating commercial/industrial nodes. 4-CP Develop plans for free or low-fare transit serving the downtown area, Empire Mine and other areas of particular interest. 5-CP Develop plans, in conjunction with existing transit agencies, for a shuttle bus service to accommodate inter-modal transfers and to make transit facilities more convenient. 6-CP Locate transit stops and park and ride facilities near freeway interchanges and in conjunction with higher density residential and mixed-use developments. 7-CP Provide park and ride facilities to encourage car pooling and discourage excess automobile usage. 8-CP Incorporate bicycle lanes and sidewalks in street cross-sections whenever feasible. 9-CP Adopt appropriate designs, techniques and standards to calm traffic through residential neighborhoods. 10-CP Encourage Nevada County to utilize City roadway, access and circulation standards within the Planning Area. 11-CP Design selected streets and intersections employing modern roundabouts and other traffic calming techniques. 12-CP Adhere to high safety standards where pedestrians and bicyclists are exposed to motorized vehicles. 13-CP Assure the continuity of sidewalks by instituting a city-wide sidewalk planning/construction programs. 14-CP Provide street lighting in existing neighborhoods as necessary. 15-CP Avoid environmentally sensitive areas, to the extent feasible, when expanding the roadway network. 16-CP Eliminate curb cuts and other vehicular encroachments along arterial and collector streets where feasible and practical, to promote both efficient traffic flow and traffic safety. 17-CP Redesign and reconstruct freeway access and connector streets, to include a new interchange at Dorsey Drive and Highway 20/49. 18-CP Study bypass routes designed and located to avert undesirable through-traffic in residential and non-residential neighborhoods. 19-CP Add vehicular parking in the downtown area. 20-CP Re-design intersections on collector streets to improve and "smooth" traffic flow. 21-CP Defer to preservation of community character, including historical and architectural features, when planning and implementing transportation improvements. 22-CP Remove impediments to emergency access from public streets and rights-of-way. 23-CP Establish and periodically review emergency access standards in appropriate city development codes and ordinances. 24-CP Coordinate circulation and development plans with public safety agencies, fire departments/districts and emergency service providers. Circulation Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-CI Adopt the roadway classification system outlined in the Circulation Element. The City shall plan, design and regulate roadways in accordance with the functional classification system reflected in Figure 4-1 and Table 4-1. 2-CI Regularly update development impact fees. 3-CI Ensure that proposed specific plans are consistent with the provisions of the functional classification component. This shall include incorporation of consistent design standards for roadways, associated bikeways and trails, and landscape areas. Require that large development proposals and specific plans include comprehensive financing plans for streets and highways. 4-CI Work with neighboring jurisdictions and regional planning agencies to coordinate the classification of roadways that cross the City's boundaries. Strive to have compatible functional classifications for gateway roadways. 5-CI Continue to refine and improve the design standards for its roadway system. The design standards shall reflect functional classification and include the following elements: Right-of-way requirements Roadway cross-sections including landscaping and bikeways Signalization and access control Land use compatibility, orientation and design standards Vehicle and pedestrian safety Exception to the standards may be necessary but should be kept to a minimum and should be evaluated on a case by case basis. 6-CI Monitor truck traffic. As conditions warrant, develop, enforce, evaluate and update a truck route system to ensure safe and efficient routes through the City. 7-CI Continue to update a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to implement policy which strives to maintain LOS "D" at all locations during the weekday P.M. peak hour. Define "normally accepted maximum" improvements that are consistent with the character and terrain of Grass Valley. If forecast traffic volumes cannot maintain LOS "D", the City Council may consider additional "extraordinary" improvements. The City Council may determine, on a case by case basis, that "extraordinary" improvements are not feasible or desirable and may relax the LOS "D" standard for a particular intersection or roadway segment. In considering exceptions to the LOS "D" standard, the City shall consider the following factors: The number of hours per day that the intersection or roadway segment would operate at conditions worse the LOS "D". The ability of the improvement to reduce peak hour delay and improve traffic operations. The impact on accessibility to surrounding properties. The right-of-way needs and the physical impact on surrounding properties. The visual aesthetics of the required improvements and its impact on community identity and character. Environmental impacts including air quality and noise impacts. Construction and right-of-way acquisition costs. Impacts on pedestrian and bicycle accessibility and safety. The impacts of the required construction phasing and traffic maintenance. In no case should the City plan for worse then LOS "E" at any intersection or roadway segment during the afternoon peak hour. 8-CI Base the Capital Improvement Program on a 20 year horizon and update the Program regularly. Update concurrently with the approval of any significant modification to the land use allocation assumed by the Citywide travel model. 9-CI Regularly monitor traffic volumes on City streets and prepare an annual report documenting recent trends and current Levels of Service. 10-CI Require that Specific Plans contain transportation improvements consistent with the standards of the Circulation Element, and that Specific Plans demonstrate what measures will be required to maintain the City's Level of Service standard and how these measures will be funded. Utilize development agreements to secure improvement, sequencing and funding provisions. 11-CI Prepare a Long-Range Transit Master Plan consistent with the provisions of the Circulation Element. The shall Explore potential benefits of improved transit service on the City's Level of Service standard through the Long-Range Transit Master Plan. 12-CI Evaluate the feasibility of enacting a Transportation Systems Management Ordinance. If a TSM ordinance is enacted, the City shall assess the effectiveness of a TSM Ordinance in reducing vehicle trips, or in making street, parking facilities, public transit and bikeways more effective. Evaluate the TSM Ordinance's overall performance annually. If, after 2 to 3 years the trip reduction goals are not being achieved, revise the TSM Ordinance to include measures to achieve stated goals. 13-CI Prepare a Bikeways Master Plan consistent with the Trails-Sidewalks Plan in this General Plan. Adopt the 1996 Nevada County Master Bicycle Plan and Trails Master Plan. The intent is to ensurethe coordinated implementation of non-automotive circulation systems. 14-CI Coordinate with surrounding jurisdictions to provide acceptable and compatible levels of service on roadways connecting the City. Work with the Nevada County Transportation Commission to implement applicable Level of Service standards. Work with appropriate air pollution control agencies to implement transportation improvements and measures that help meet the established air goals and standards. 15-CI Ensure adequate funding to meet established Level of Service policies. Continue to implement and update traffic impact fees on new development and to obtain gas tax and other revenues to fund the Capital Improvement Program. Explore funding for transit and for non-motorized circulation improvements, to be identified in the Trails-Sidewalks-Bikeways Master Plan. Consider alternative funding sources, such as establishment of assessment district(s). Work with regional planning agencies to explore funding opportunities for all components of its transportation system that are required to meet its Level of Service standard. 16-CI Monitor the status of regional planning efforts and Caltrans design work in order to be cognizant of future right of way requirements and local responsibilities. Maintain a current record of Caltrans and Nevada County Transportation Commission activity for major facilities so future right of way needs can be addressed when reviewing development proposals. Consider future Caltrans right of way needs when evaluating development proposals and shall incorporate measures to preserve rights of way into development agreements and conditions of approval. 17-CI Identify appropriate environmental traffic volume thresholds for residential streets and shall consider those thresholds in development review. Use traffic calming measures to ensure that these thresholds are maintained on existing streets and provided on local streets in new development. 18-CI Develop a plan for parking that identifies park and ride lots. Consider the need for park and ride facilities and for facilities serving alternative transportation modes when evaluating development proposals. Require construction of these facilities concurrent with development. Conservation/Open Space Goals and Objectives 1-COSG Provide a balance between development and the natural environment, protecting and properly utilizing Grass Valley's sensitive environmental areas/features, natural resources and open space lands. 1-COSO Inventory of sensitive environmental areas and features. 2-COSO Multi-purpose open space lands, accommodating the needs and requirements of open space/conservation, habitat, recreation, and aesthetics. 3-COSO Protection of rare and endangered animals and plants. 4-COSO Reduction of urban development impacts on native vegetation, wildlife and topography. 5-COSO Encouragement of wildlife through habitat protection. 6-COSO Assurance of appropriate resource conservation and environmental protection measures as prerequisites to development. 2-COSG Protect, enhance and restore hydrologic features, including stream corridors, flood plains, wetlands, and riparian zones. 7-COSO Development of an extensive trail network providing recreational and educational opportunities. 8-COSO Minimize interference with the natural functions of flood plains and naturally flood-prone areas. 3-COSG Ensure the protection of Grass Valley's trees and forested areas. 9-COSO Identification of heritage trees for special recognition and protection. 10-COSO Identification of significant groves and groupings of trees for permanent open space designation. 4-COSG Protect and enhance town entryways, visual corridors and important viewsheds including ridgelines. 11-COSO Identification of particular corridors and views requiring protection or enhancement. 12-COSO Identification of specific aesthetic considerations important to the protection/enhancement of particular corridors and views. 5-COSG Maintain close relationships with public agencies and private organizations regarding conservation, open space and environmental protection. 13-COSO Ongoing communication of information, plans, and concepts. 14-COSO Creation of joint efforts and shared funding responsibilities. 6-COSG Assure compliance with and understanding of air and water quality regulations and standards. 15-COSO Protection of ground- and surface water quality. 16-COSO Inclusion of air and water quality considerations in land use decisions rendered by the Planning Commission and City Council. Conservation/Open Space Policies 1-COSP Continue to identify mineral resources and development of policies addressing their protection from competing land uses, minimizing impacts on mining activities, in compliance with State law. 2-COSP Establish an active program of land/development rights acquisition in order to protect sensitive environmental areas and features. 3-COSP Encourage clustering, density averaging, and other techniques in larger-scale new developments, as means of preserving open space and natural systems. 4-COSP Establish standards for inclusion and management of permanent open space in new developments. 5-COSP Carefully regulate development on steep slopes. 6-COSP Prevent excessive alteration of the natural topography. 7-COSP Recognize and reinforce Grass Valley's public park system. 8-COSP Study the potential for inter-jurisdictional transfer of development rights. 9-COSP Carefully regulate development for location in flood hazard areas. 10-COSP Establish a city trail network program for friendly acquisition, development and administration of a natural trails system. 11-COSP Return to open space, areas within which flooding poses a clear danger to life and property. 12-COSP Enhance the City's tree ordinance addressing tree maintenance and protection both within new developments and elsewhere in the City. 13-COSP Assist property owners wishing to preserve and protect heritage trees and significant groves. 14-COSP Establish a program to identify and administer a viewshed/view corridor protection program. 15-COSP Assign responsibility for the viewshed/view corridor program. 16-COSP Incorporate viewshed/view corridor standards into the Design Element of the General Plan, City Design Guidelines and other appropriate developmental documents. 17-COSP Utilize the services and expertise of organizations involved in resource conservation and open space protection. 18-COSP Develop and achieve agreement with the County of Nevada on a strategy for conservation and open space protection within the Grass Valley Planning Area and City's Sphere of Influence. 19-COSP Enlist the interest and efforts of appropriate state and federal agencies and private foundations regarding conservation and open space protection. 20-COSP Establish, in cooperation with Nevada County, an urban limit line beyond which urban land uses, densities, facilities and services will not extend. 21-COSP Continue to implement water quality improvement plans, including storm water separation and sewage treatment plant expansion. 22-COSP Implement circulation/transportation measures designed to reduce reliance on the automobile. 23-COSP Respond appropriately to state and federal air and water quality policies and policy changes, understanding the implications of regulations and standards, and maintaining a continuing public education program. Conservation/Open Space Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-COSI Identify, inventory and map essential information related to conservation and open space, utilizing the City's geographic information system. Include definition, delineation, and mapping of sensitive environmental areas. Maintain and update the information base as warranted. 2-COSI Coordinate information inventories and mapping with Nevada County, particularly for unincorporated portions of the Planning Area. 3-COSI Implement the Open Space Opportunity overlay/Open Space Land Use map designation procedure to ensure ongoing designation of appropriate open space lands in the General Plan. Establish open space restrictions, easements, and other protective measures in conjunction with OSO/OS designations. Inventory and place on OSO and Open Space Land Use maps all open spaces previously reserved by past development conditions and development agreements. 4-COSI Maintain a development review process which documents compliance with the various goals, objectives, and policies of the Conservation/Open Space Element. 5-COSI Establish and assign responsibility for land/development rights acquisition for conservation, open space, and park/recreation purposes. 6-COSI Review development ordinances and regulations to assure adequate provision for clustering, density averaging, and other techniques. 7-COSI Prepare and adopt an ordinance regulating development on steep slopes and on ridgelines, for purposes of natural resource and aesthetic protection. 8-COSI Establish and assign responsibility for a continuing program to rehabilitate, restore, and reclaim abused areas. Abused areas include but are not limited to streams and stream corridors, de-forested areas, and un-reclaimed mines. 9-COSI Establish and assign responsibility for a continuing information and technical assistance program for local residents regarding trees and other natural resources. Enlist the support and participation of the Cooperative Extension Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection in this effort. 10-COSI Assign responsibility for coordination with federal, state, and local agencies regarding conservation/environmental matters. 11-COSI Review sign regulations and landscaping requirements, upgrade City ordinances as required, and develop an effective enforcement program. 12-COSI Review all development regulations germane to flooding and flood prevention. Assure periodic updates of official flood zone maps. 13-COSI Prepare and adopt guidelines for street tree placement and maintenance. 14-COSI Review the Heritage Tree Ordinance and amend the ordinance to provide better protection to unique trees. 15-COSI Prepare and adopt an ordinance for the identification and protection of groves and clusters of trees deemed of special natural and/or aesthetic value. 16-COSI Study and consider a permanent ban on open burning within the City limits. Noise Goal and Objectives 1-NG Protect Grass Valley's relatively quiet environment from unnecessary, annoying and potentially damaging noise. 1-NO Coordination of transportation and land use planning to assure acceptable noise levels. 2-NO Determination of the existing noise environment and development of realistic noise standards for different land uses. 3-NO Establishment of a pattern of land uses that minimizes exposure of community residents to excessive noise. Noise Policies 1-NP Develop a policy framework to function as a guide to planning for appropriate land uses in relation to hazardous and annoying noise. 2-NP Perform adequate acoustical analyses prior to approval of new development projects or transportation facilities. 3-NP Utilize noise contour data to determine land uses affected by transportation-related noise sources. 4-NP Adopt appropriate noise level standards for existing and future residential areas. 5-NP Utilize noise contour data to determine appropriate land use patterns in areas affected by stationary noise sources. 6-NP Locate sensitive land uses (residential neighborhoods, medical facilities, senior care facilities and schools) away from high noise areas. Noise Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-NI Prohibit development of new noise-sensitive land uses where the noise level due to fixed noise sources will exceed the noise level standards of General Plan Table 6-5 (as measured immediately within the property line or within a designated outdoor activity area of the new development) unless effective noise mitigation measures have been incorporated into the development design to achieve the standards specified in General Plan Table 6-5. 2-NI. Require that noise created by new development of fixed noise sources be mitigated so as not to exceed the noise level standards of General Plan Table 6-5 as measured immediately within the property line of lands designated for noise-sensitive land uses. 3-NI Require that noise created by existing fixed noise sources which undergo modifications requiring City approval be mitigated so as not to exceed the noise level standards of General Plan Table 6-5 (as measured immediately within the property line of lands designated for noise-sensitive land uses). If the existing noise level due to those sources exceeds the standards, require that the noise level after modifications be mitigated so as to not exceed the existing noise level. 4-NI Require that an acoustical analysis be performed where new development of fixed noise sources, or modification of existing fixed noise sources, is likely to produce noise levels exceeding the performance standards of General Plan Table 6-5, and that noise mitigation be included in the project design. 5-NI Prohibit new development of noise-sensitive land uses in areas exposed to existing or projected future levels of noise from transportation noise sources which exceed the levels specified in General Plan Table 6-6, unless the project design includes effective mitigation measures to reduce exterior noise and noise levels in interior spaces to the levels specified in General Plan Table 6-6. 6-NI Require mitigation of noise created by new transportation noise sources so as not to exceed the levels specified in General Plan Table 6-6 at designated outdoor activity areas and interior spaces of existing noise-sensitive land uses. 7-NI Adopt the following criteria applicable to roadway improvement projects: Where the existing traffic noise level at the designated outdoor activity area of the affected noise-sensitive use is 65 dB Ldn or less, noise created by a roadway improvement project shall be mitigated so as not to exceed the ambient noise level by more than 3 dB Ldn. Where the existing traffic noise level at the designated outdoor activity area of the affected noise-sensitive use exceeds 65 dB Ldn, noise created by a roadway improvement project shall be mitigated so as not to exceed the ambient noise level by more than 1.5 dB Ldn. 8-NI Require an acoustical analysis and appropriate mitigation measures where new transportation noise sources are likely to produce noise levels exceeding the standards of General Plan Table 6-6 at existing or planned noise-sensitive uses. 9-NI Require an acoustical analysis (see General Plan Table 6-7) and mitigation measures where noise-sensitive land uses are proposed in areas exposed to existing or projected exterior noise levels exceeding the levels specified in General Plan Table 6-5 or General Plan Table 6-6. 10-NI Apply the following standards and practices to acoustical analyses: Where the locations of outdoor activity areas are not known or designated, the exterior noise level standards shall be applied immediately inside the property line of the receiving land use. In rural areas with large residential lots, the exterior noise level standard shall be applied at a point 100 feet from the residence. Where it is not practical to mitigate exterior noise levels at patios or balconies of apartment complexes, a common area such as a pool or recreation area may be designated as the outdoor activity area. Where noise mitigation measures are required to achieve the standards of General Plan Tables 6-5 and 6-6, the emphasis of such measures shall be placed upon site planning and project design. The use of noise barriers shall be considered a means of achieving the noise standards only after all other practical design-related noise mitigation measures have been integrated into the project. When determining the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures, the noise standards shall be applied on the receptor side of noise barriers or other property line noise mitigation measures. If dwellings are located and constructed in accordance with the Noise Element, it may be assumed that the resulting exterior and interior noise levels will conform to the noise standards imposed by lending agencies such as HUD, FHA and CalVet. Construction of new single-family dwellings or modification of existing dwellings in developed areas may not be subject to City review with respect to satisfaction of the standards of the Noise Element. As a consequence, such dwellings may be constructed or modified in areas where noise levels exceed the standards of the Noise Element. It is not the responsibility of the City to ensure that such dwellings meet the noise standards of the Noise Element, or the HUD/FHA/CalVet noise standards. Safety Goal and Objectives 1-SG Reduce the potential risk of death, injury, property damage, and economic and social dislocation resulting from hazards. 1-SO Assurance of a high level of protection from geologic and seismic hazards for all residents, structures and vital services. 2-SO Reduction of risk from exposure to hazards related to past and present mining, including shafts, tunnels, tailings and toxic materials. 3-SO Reduction of risk from exposure to flood hazards. 4-SO Reduction of risk from exposure to structural and wildlife fires. 5-SO Reduction of risk from exposure to hazardous materials, including contaminated sites. Safety Policies 1-SP Adopt current uniform codes for new construction. 2-SP Ensure seismic safety and structural integrity in housing and commercial/industrial facilities through code enforcement. 3-SP Develop and implement appropriate flood hazard regulations. 4-SP Based on location or probable need, require development plans in mined areas to include in-depth assessments of potential safety, including mining-related excavations, and health hazards and accompanying mitigation measures. 5-SP Maintain or return to open space lands subject to flooding. 6-SP Incorporate fire hazard reduction considerations into land use plans/patterns, both public and private. 7-SP Identify, maintain, and mark evacuation routes for use in case of disasters or emergencies. 8-SP Assure public awareness of fire-safety measures, including those addressing property maintenance and evacuation. 9-SP Develop and implement fire-safe community design and landscaping standards, construction codes, and property maintenance regulations. 10-SP Adopt and implement appropriate standards for access roads, on-site driveway standards, fuel reduction and emergency water supply. 11-SP Maintain appropriate standards for water supply, pressure and distribution for fire suppression purposes. 12-SP Maintain a high level of inter-jurisdictional cooperation and coordination, including appropriate automatic aid agreements with fire protection/ suppression agencies automatic aid agreements with fire protection/suppression agencies in western Nevada County. 13-SP Continue to implement provisions of the Nevada County Airpark Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and to coordinate as appropriate with Nevada County, Airpark management, and the Foothill Airport Land Use Commission regarding Airpark plans and safety considerations. Safety Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-SI Adhere to the Land Use Plan's compact overall development pattern, including infill (Land Use Element). A compact development pattern reduces total land area needed to accommodate projected development (thus reducing exposure to potential hazards); facilitates quick response to emergencies from established locations, such as fire stations; and allows cost-effective extension of safety-related infrastructure, such as streets, water and storm-water drainage systems. 2-SI Utilize open space/conservation reserves and easements to restrict development in high-risk areas, such as flood-prone areas, airport safety zones, and areas identified as subject to geologic risk. 3-SI Amend land use regulations to allow clustering and density averaging in conjunction with restricted development of potentially hazardous areas. 4-SI Encourage continuity and linkages within the circulation system. Require future developments to provide multiple ingress/egress points, to facilitate emergency vehicle access and mobility, and to facilitate emergency evacuation movements. 5-SI Maintain high standards of fire preparedness, capacity, and response. Assure the City's capability to maintain such standards as areas are annexed. 6-SI Establish a mine-related hazards program, to include the following specific actions: Initiate and maintain a mine hazard data base, incorporating maps, technical studies, and other germane information. To the extent practical and possible, map and describe identified hazards. Coordinate with Nevada County and the State Division of Mines and Geology in mine hazard research and information collection and dissemination. Provide technical assistance and advice to property owners in identifying and mitigating mine-related hazards on their properties. Determine the appropriate extent of geo-technical field investigations and other research required to determine the presence or absence of potentially hazardous mine-related features. Require appropriate field investigations and other research as part of the approval process for new developments, including individual new structures. 7-SI Continue to regulate development within flood prone areas to reduce the risks of flood hazards to life and property. Avoid stream channel modifications. 8-SI Require new developments to utilize on-site storm water detention techniques. 9-SI Establish site development standards designed to minimize the resulting area and percentage of impervious surface. 10-SI Revise flood hazard maps at appropriate intervals, to reflect the effects of land use changes subsequent to previous flood hazard studies. 11-SI Incorporate into City construction codes appropriate provisions and revisions of the Uniform Building Code regarding seismic safety. 12-SI Maintain an active code enforcement program to assure the safety of residential and commercial structures. 13-SI Require new developments located on officially identified hazardous waste sites to conduct appropriate investigations, submit results to the City, and prepare a mitigation plan as part of the project review process. 14-SI Enforce provisions of the Nevada County Airpark Master Plan, Nevada County Airpark Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and City Council Resolution 89-153 (General Plan amendment GPA89-01) regarding development in designated Airport Safety Areas. 15-SI Mark evacuation routes with visible signage. 16-SI Establish and maintain public information and awareness programs regarding public safety and hazards, in cooperation with appropriate emergency agencies and organizations. 17-SI Consider the location and characteristics of documented hazardous waste sites as part of the environmental assessment process for proposed developments. Recreation Goals and Objectives 1-RG Allow for expanded and diverse recreational programs, areas and opportunities. 1-RO Development and continuation of park and open space programs. 2-RO Promote City-sponsored recreation programs. 3-RO Establishment of a mechanism for inter-jurisdictional cooperation in the Grass Valley area. 4-RO Assurance that an adequate amount of parklands are set aside proportionate to needs and growth. 2-RG Facilitate community cultural opportunities. 5-RO Establishment of cultural venues and programs. 6-RO Establishment of general-purpose community gathering places and facilities. Recreation Policies 1-RP Provide parks and open spaces of different sizes and types to respond to the needs of a diverse population, including trails for pedestrian and equestrian use, bicycle pathways, linear parkways and park-like natural areas. 2-RP Increase the standard of park acreage to population. 3-RP Distinguish neighborhood park needs from community and regional park needs. 4-RP Establish a City-sponsored open space district to operate and manage existing and future open space resources. 5-RP Formalize and enhance walking trails in existing City parks. 6-RP Provide non-motorized linkages between parks and open spaces. 7-RP Include a map in the General Plan designating a trails network for the Planning Area. 8-RP Cooperate with other jurisdictions to address regional park and recreation needs. 9-RP Develop performing arts in various venues, including a performing arts center. 10-RP Expand the existing library as a cultural venue. 11-RP Create a public plaza in downtown for community events and activities. 12-RP Support efforts to establish a community center for mixed ages and a variety of uses. Recreation Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-RI Prepare Parks and Recreation System Master Plan, incorporating appropriate provisions of this General Plan (including the Trails-Sidewalks Network Plan) into the Master Plan. Establish clear priorities and phasing plans as part of the Master Plan process. 2-RI Establish a formal mechanism for ongoing coordination with Nevada County, to include but not be limited to joint facility funding; agreement on plans, programs, services, and activities. 3-RI Establish and utilize neighborhood planning and participation to determine localized needs and desires for facilities and services. 4-RI Pursue alternatives to city acquisition and maintenance of recreation areas via homeowners associations, assessment districts, and private organizations. 4-RI Provide a focal point and coordinating mechanism for the efforts of non-governmental entities involved in the acquisition of property or property rights related to City park and recreation facilities. 5-RI Reserve land or entitlements in advance of need. Accept dedications and donations if potentially useful for future facilities. 6-RI Inform the general public of recreation-related facilities, services, and future plans, and actively solicit public opinion in return. 7-RI Assign full responsibility to the Parks and Recreation Commission for recreation and related planning, programming, and administration. Historical Goals and Objectives 1-HG Conserve and enhance the historical identity of Grass Valley. 1-HO Development and continuation of civic historic protection efforts. 2-HO Preservation of buildings of historic and/or architectural merit. Historical Policies 1-HP Delineate and describe Grass Valley's neighborhoods. 2-HP Identify and record historic neighborhoods and their characteristics in order to protect and preserve those characteristics. 3-HP Establish appropriate design standards and elements that complement Grass Valley's historic heritage in newly developing areas. 4HP Enhance the appearance of City entryways, commercial areas, and streetscapes, in part through the use of elements in the design standards that complement Grass Valley's historic heritage. 5-HP Place emphasis on preservation and restoration within the 1872 Townsite and 1893 and 1894 annexation areas. 6-HP Encourage maintenance, rehabilitation, renovation, and restoration of older homes utilizing the Heritage Home Awards and other programs. 7-HP Rehabilitate older commercial areas utilizing the Façade Improvement Program and other programs. 8-HP Investigate and implement procedures to protect historic structures from demolition. 9-HP Inform developers, builders and design professionals of Grass Valley's community design standards and preferences, using brochures, photographic displays and other illustrative techniques. Historical Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-HI Maintain a Historic Resources Ordinance and active programs to implement City policy for historic conservation and enhancement. 2-HI Continue to encourage the Grass Valley Historical Commission's inventory of historical landmarks and sites within the 1872 Townsite. 3-HI Utilize the results of the Grass Valley Historical Commission's inventory of historical landmarks and sites to preserve and enhance resources within the 1872 Townsite. 4-HI Expand the "historical district" to include both sides of West Main Street between Church Street and Auburn Street and the north side of East Main Street between North Auburn Street and Washington Street. 5-HI Require new and restored/rehabilitated buildings in the historical district to adhere to design standards reflecting the city core's historical character. Include in design standards scale and building proportions, color palette, building materials, and architectural elements. 6-HI Use the Neighborhood map to assist private developers and the City in preserving and enhancing neighborhood identity related to historic/cultural features. Define and describe the distinctive features and characteristics to be preserved and enhanced in specific neighborhoods. 7-HI Continue to support the Historical Commission's Heritage Home Awards Program. 8-HI Initiate and support events and activities designed to give residents and visitors an appreciation of Grass Valley's historical and cultural heritage. 9-HI Continue to support the Facade Improvement Program and Community Development Block Grant Program to assist in restoration and preservation of historical features. Community Design Goals and Objectives 1-CDG Preserve and enhance the existing community 1-CDO Maintenance of Downtown as the heart of the planning area. 2-CDO Preservation of notable landmarks, streetscape and other areas of architectural or aesthetic value providing continuity with the past. 3-CDO Recognition and protection of major views in the planning area, with particular attention to notable buildings, open space, hillsides, valleys, ridgelines, and forested views. 4-CDO Recognition, protection and reinforcement of the existing street pattern, which represents and conforms to the existing natural terrain rather than intruding into the natural topography. 5-CDO Improvement of automobile circulation and/or circulation for pedestrians and bicycles. 6-CDO Improvement of the appearance of entrances to the community, Downtown, other neighborhoods and commercial districts. 2-CDG Conserve community attributes that provide a senses of the natural setting and continuity with the past. 7-CDO Preservation of remaining unbuildable spaces in a state that complements the community. 8-CDO Recognition and reinforcement of natural boundaries of neighborhoods and commercial districts. 3-CDG Assure that major new development is sensitive to and strengthens the existing built and natural environment. 9-CDO Provision of a variety of housing types and designs in new residential developments. 10-CDO New development containing higher densities in clustered development patterns that minimize infrastructure requirements and maximize open space. 11-CDO Infill development that is consistent with historic development patterns in terms of scale, design and material. 12-CDO Creation of new development areas that are unique and interesting. 13-CDO High quality streetscape and building design in all new development. 14-CDO Development patterns that promote and protect functional open spaces. 4-CDG Create, maintain and enhance civic places. 15-CDO Maintenance and enhancement of Downtown as the region's civic and cultural hub. 16-CDO Creation of special places for social interaction. 17-CDO Design of new development and infill projects that create a safe and visually interesting environment for the residents and visitors of Grass Valley. 18-CDO Improvement of existing streetscape design. Community Design Policies 1-CDP Continue to implement programs, such as the facade improvement program and design review, that maintain and enhance Downtown's historic character and commercial vitality. 2-CDP Establish a program to identify and protect viewsheds/view corridors, open space, including hillsides, valleys, ridgelines, forested views, and notable buildings. 3-CDP Modify city development standards to minimize alteration of existing terrain. 4-CDP Provide connections for automobiles, bicycles and/or pedestrians between neighborhoods and commercial districts when neighborhood safety and character are not compromised. 5-CDP Design and construct streetscape improvements along South Auburn Street and Colfax Avenue as they enter Downtown to enhance the area visually and to improve pedestrian access. 6-CDP Design and construct streetscape improvements at the south entrance to the community at Highway 49 to enhance the area visually. 7-CDP Inventory potentially unbuildable properties in an effort to determine highest and best use for such sites. 8-CDP Provide opportunities for attached housing units in single family residential areas, when attached housing will be consistent with established densities and neighborhood appearance. 9-CDP Continue to allow second units on lots in single family residential areas, subject to appropriate development standards and design criteria. 10-CDP Identify and place a map of neighborhoods in the General Plan. 11-CDP Provide connections for automobiles, bicycles and or pedestrians in new development wherever needed to facilitate convenient access and connections with the larger community. 12-CDP Provide a mixture of residential unit designs in all major new residential development. 13-CDP Revise City street standards to minimize paved surface area, encourage slower vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian access and safety. 14-CDP Integrate natural areas for runoff detention in all major new development. 15-CDP Provide internal pedestrian and bicycle connections and connections to the broader planning area in all major new development. 16-CDP Provide a mix of uses within walking distance in all major new development to promote pedestrian access and to provide definition of the area as a place. 17-CDP Assure adequate City design review of all major new development. 18-CDP Endeavor to locate new entertainment and retail facilities in the Downtown area through redevelopment, public/private partnerships and other development tools. 19-CDP Retain existing public offices and facilities Downtown, including the Library, Post Office, Veterans Hall and City Hall. 20-CDP Design all future major public and private development projects to include areas for public gathering and interaction. 21-CDP Update and consolidate existing design guidelines providing specific criteria focusing on creating gathering places and safe areas for public interaction. 22-CDP Discourage gated communities and encourage open access through projects. Community Design Implementation Actions and Strategies 1-CDI Expand and refine Facade Improvement Program and City design review. Revise and consolidate the Design Review Guidelines. 2-CDI Amend the Downtown Historic District boundaries to coincide with the present boundaries of the Downtown Parking and Business Improvement District. 3-CDI Systematically inventory and map forested views. Establish a program to identify and protect viewsheds/view corridors, general open space, including hillsides, valleys and ridgelines, and notable buildings. 4-CDI Develop clear standards to minimize excessive grading and terrain modification on steep slopes and within environmentally sensitive areas. 5-CDI Identify and map areas where connections for autos, bicycles and/or pedestrians between neighborhoods and commercial districts are needed. Develop a capital improvement program to establish missing connections. 6-CDI Design and construct streetscape improvements along South Auburn Street and Colfax Avenue as they enter Downtown, and along Highway 49 at the southern entrance to the City. 7-CDI Amend the zoning ordinance and other development codes to facilitate clustering, consistent with allowable densities and intensities. 8-CDI Revise City infrastructure development standards to minimize paved surface area, encourage slower vehicle speeds, enhance pedestrian access and safety, and integrate natural runoff detention and purification. 9-CDI Encourage the siting of new entertainment and retail facilities Downtown.