HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/11/1992Next Resolution No. 92-12
MY OF DUMOND BAR PLANMNG COMMSSION
SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
AUDITORIUM
21865. E. COPLEY DRIVE
DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765
May 11, 1992
STUDY SESSION: 6:00 pm.
Joint Study Session of Planning 'Commission
and Traffic and Transportation commission to
review the Plan for Physical Mobility'(Circu-
lation Element) to be conducted in Room CC -2.
CALL TO ORDER: 7:30 pm
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL: COMMISSIONERS: chairman Flamenbaum, Vice
Chairman MacBride, Gr.6the, Li and Meyer
MATTERS FROM THE AUDIENCE/PUBLIC COMMENTS:
This. is the time and place for the general public to address the
members of the. Planning Commission on any item that is. within
their 'jurisdiction, allowing the public an opportunity to speak -c
non-public hearing and non -agenda items. Please complete i.
Speaker's Card for the recording Secretary (completion of this' -
form is voluntary) . There is a five minute maximum time limit
when addressing the Planning Commission.
CONSENT CALENDAR: ..The following items listed on the consent
calendar are considered routine and are approved by a single
motion. consent calendar items may be removed from the agenda -by
request of the Commission only:
1. Minutes of April 20 and 27, 1992
OLD BUSINESS: None
NEW BUSINESS: None
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING
2. Conditional Use Permit No. 91-13. A request to amend
Conditional Use Permit No. 495 for property improvements.
Development Review No. 91-4 and Sign Review No. 91-4 for
tenant improvement with exterior changes and signs for K-
mart located at 249 So. Diamond Bar Blvd. in a CPD zone.
Applicant: K -Mart Corporation
Environmental Determination: categorically Exempt Section
15061(b)(3)
3. Draft General Plan (continued from May 4, 1992)
The Diamond Bar General Plan is a statement by local
citizens of what they feel is in,the best interest of their
community. It serves .as a blueprint for the type of
community they desire for the future, and provides the means
by which that future can be obtained.
The General Plan expresses, in the form of text, maps and
illustrations, the policies and programs necessary td'create
,andmaintain a functional, healthful and desirable
environment in which to work and live. The Diamond Bar
General Plan will serve as a comprehensive strategy for the
management of growth and change in our community throughout
the next twenty years.
The Proposed General Plan addresses both* the incorporated
city limits and its adopted sphere of influence. The Draft
Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) prepared for the Diamond
Bar General Plan addresses the environmental impacts created
by the Plan as well as mitigation measures for the impacts.
The Draft Diamond Bar General Plan incorporates the seven
required general plan elements (land use, housing, open
space, conservation, safety, noise, and circulation) into
five major sections:
The Plan for Public Services and Facilities
The Plan , for Resource Management (Open Space,
Conservation)
The Plan for Public Health and Safety (Noise and
Safety)
The Plan for Physical.Mobility (Circulation)
The Plan for Community Development (Land Use, Housing)
a. The focus of the May 11,, 1992, hearing will be to
review the Plan for Physical Mobility (Circulation
.Element) and the Plan for. Community Development
(Housing Element).
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Staf f
Planning Commissioners
ADJOURNMENT:
4. May -18, 1992,-7:00 p.m. for continuing review of the Plan
for Community Development (Land Use Element).
PLANNING COMMISSION
TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
JOINT' STUDY SESSION
AGENDA
SCAQMD
6:00 PM
GENTRAL PLAN CIRCULATION ELEMENT
PLAN' REFINEMENT
i. Data Analysis
a. Road classifications - refine and define distinctions between local residential
and collector streets.
b. Definition of build out, both local and regional, for this section of the plan,
C. Affect of build out - Depending upon definition identify what is the affect upon
future conditions.
2.
3.
Establish Level of Service Standard for Diamond Bar.
Circulation issues (list is not neces1arily in order of priority)
a. Brea Canyon Road
b. Grand Ave.
G. Golden Springs/Colima
d. Sunset Crossing/13eaverhead
e. Tonner Canyon Road
f. Pathfinder
g. Diamond Bar Blvd.
h, Tres Hermanos access (high school)
i. 57/60 interchange
j. Tonner Canyon access
lc. Other roads not identified above
1. New roads/infrastructure .
M. Alternate modes of transportation
Format of Circulation Element - Identify what is part of the EIR, and the Circulation
Element.
Direction to Staff
Adjournment of Study Session
5:00 pm - Convene Planning Commission to address Goals, Objectives and
Strategies of Circulation Element.
.:. .:
... h
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development
SUBJECT: Review of the General Plan
MEETING DATE: May 4, 1992
DATE: May 1, 1992
GENERAL PLAN BACKGROUND
The Planning Commission began a series of public hearings regarding
the General Plan on April 13, 1992. The Commission has approved
the Plan for Public Services and Facilities and reviewed the Plan
for Resource Management and the Plan for Public Health and Safety.
RL*�Lffif� I R1 Y ONIV W 110) 11 1
It is recommended that the Planning Commission open the Public
Hearing on the e ' ntire General Plan, receive testimony and review
the Plan for Physical Mobility, review changes to the Plan for
Resource Management and continue the General Plan public hearing to
May 11, 1992.
PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
The purpose of the Plan for Physical Mobility is to examine Diamond
Bar's circulation for community needs. The Plan is designed to
provide the basic goals, objectives and programs to manage existing
transportation facilities and future transportation growth. The
"system" is significantly affected by forces outside the City
jurisdiction. The Circulation Element is designed to account for
the external forces and develop a strategy to implement ' the choices
the City makes. Simply stated, the circulation system needs
involve balancing the demand for increased roadway capacity with
the vision of our community image and quality of life.
In December, 1990, DKS Associates was employed to develop and
prepare a Circulation Element. The Element addresses issues of
regional and local issues. Existing conditions are evaluated and
components of the plan were identified. - Actions studied for future
City needs included:
Improving Grand Avenue to optimize through traffic
carrying capacity.
Emphasizing Diamond Bar Boulevard as a "local" arterial.
Developing Tonner Canyon Road as an alternative travel
corridor around the city.
Extending several - existing streets that currently
terminate at the City limits adjacent to the City of
Industry.
Protecting residential neighborhoods from through
traffic.
® An assessment of future regional traffic growth.
The General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and Traffic and
Transportation Commission (T&T) have reviewed the circulation
Element. GPAC has recommended a plan that outlines measures which
focus on local priorities over regional needs. Capacity should not
be improved nor roadways created, widened or extended which GPAC
feels will benefit others while further reducing the quality of
life for our residents. Local needs take precedence when weighing
regional versus local needs of * through traffic into residential
areas.
The position of the Traffic and Transportation Commission is to
improve the overall local and regional traffic needs. Improve our
internal system with an eye toward solving the regional
transportation problem. Diamond Bar is at the crossroads of
several cities and counties and has an opportunity to explore and
implement regional transportation priorities.
The Commission has previously received the Plan for Physical
Mobility. Attached to this memorandum is an updated version, dated
April 10, 1992, of the Plan as revised by the consultant DKS.
Changes to the document are identified in
Also please find attached excerpts from the State of California
publication entitled "General Plan Guidelines" regarding the
Circulation Element. Please also *review relevant sections of both
the Master Environmental Assessment and the Master Environmental
Impact Report. Copies of GPAC and T&T minutes relevant to the
Circulation Element are attached.
PLAN FOR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
The Planning Commission reviewed the Plan for Resource Management
(Open Space and Conservation Elements) on April 20, 1992.
Revisions to the Plan as recommended by the Commission are attached
with corrections highlighted in
JDS\mco
attachments
140 0 1 11FIRRIP"'Ilk
Plan for Physical Mobility
prepared for
City of Diamond Bar
by
DKS Associates
April 10, 1992
V. PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
A. Introduction
The purpose of the Diamond Bar Plan for Physical Mobility is to evaluate the transportation
needs of the City and present a comprehensive transportation plan to accommodate those needs.
Located at the convergence of Route 57 and Route 60, at Los Angeles County's borders with
San Bernardino and Orange Counties, Diamond Bar's traffic circulation has been significantly
impacted, in fact dominated, by regional traffic needs.
The focus of this plan is the identification and evaluation of local circulation needs of the City
of Diamond Bar, balancing those needs with regional demands and mandates. It has been
developed to guide the orderly improvement of the circulation system within the City in a
manner which will protect the quality of life which is Diamond Bar and in direct response to
the City's Land Use Element. The overall intent aid the Circulation Element is to provide safe
and efficient movement between homes and jobs, stores, schools or parks within the City.
1. GOVERNMENT CODE RELATING TO CIRCULATION PLANNING
Under State planning law, each city must develop and adopt a comprehensive long-term general
plan for the physical development Qf that city. The following is a mandatory requirement
relating to city transportation planning:
Government Code Section 65302(b): A circulation element consisting of the general
location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes,
terminals, and other local public ,utilities and facilities, all correlated with the land use
element of the plan.
This is the first circulation element prepared for the City of Diamond Bar. Although it is a new
city, it is not a newly developing city, but rather one that is largely built out. Many strategic
decisions related to transportation facilities (e.g., locations of roadways) were made at the
County level, prior to its incorporation.. This circulation element provides the first opportunity
to evaluate how best to utilize these facilities, from the perspective of the City of Diamond Bar,
its residents, businesses, and other users of City services.
2. CIRCULATION SYSTEM OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
The circulation system within and adjacent to the City includes the following:
a) freeways for regional access
b) streets and highways
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircE1Ch1 A-1
c) transit and paratransit services
d) bicycle and equestrian trails
e) railroad lines
f) goods movement
Each component of the circulation system is addressed in the circulation element, although the
emphasis is on the components relating to vehicular and in
l elementutThe first
transportation. Five basic steps were involved in developing the circulationomobiI
step consisted of documenting existing conditions and assembling a factual data se. The
second step involved the development and validation of a transportation model used btao forecast
future travel demand and travel patterns within the City and the surrounding area. Step three
entailed identification of problems, opportunities and issues. The fourth step was the evaluation
of alternative improvement scenarios. The fifth and final step comprised the definition and
refinement of the circulation element.
The resulting document is organized into the following sections:
1. Introduction
2: Goals, 0bjeewA*-ffffij4
1
32. Existing Conditions
1
U3. Future Conditions
1
84. Goals. ®Wectives and Implementation Programsl
A technical a radix su its this document and contains the details of anal sis of existin
and future conditions. travel fare* ."-s
1 Reorganized to conform more closely to other elements of General Plan.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh1
A 11
Ba Existing Conditions
This section documents the circulation system infrastructure and its operating conditions within
the City of Diamond Bar as of late 1990/early 1991. It also provides an evaluation of the
adequacy of the system to accommodate existing travel demand.
The components of the circulation system in the City of Diamond Bar include the following:
• Streets and Highways
• Transit Service
• Railroads
• Bicycle and Equestrian Facilities
• Aviation
• Goods Movement
The basic components of the Diamond Bar circulation system are described below.
1. MAJOR STREET CHARACTERISTICS
Functional Classification
The two major considerations in classifying the City's street network functionally are access to
adjacent properties and movement of persons and goods into and through the City. City streets
are classified by the relative importance of these two functions assigned to them. The
classification of streets is essentially a determination of the degree to which access functions are
to be emphasized at the cost of the efficiency of movement or discouraged to improve the
movement function. The design and operation of each street, therefore, depends upon the
importance placed on each of these functions. For example, streets designed to carry large
volumes of vehicles into and through the City have more lanes, higher speed limits, and fewer
driveways,, while residential streets have fewer lanes, lower speed limits, and more driveways to
provide access to fronting properties.
The functional classification system allows the residents and elected officials to identify preferred
characteristics of each street. If observed characteristics of any street change from the
functional classification, then actions can be taken to return the street to its originally intended
use or to change the designated classification. For example, if traffic volumes and speeds on
a residential street exceed expected levels, then measures can be implemented which are
designed to lower traffic volumes and reduce speeds.
Under the Circulation Element of the County of Los Angeles, roadways within Diamond Bar
were categorized into four functional classification types:
• Freeways
• Arterial Streets
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699. DBC1rcEXh2 B-1
Local Residential and Collector Streets
Streets
Figure 2-1 displays the City's existing freeway and arterial networks.
The following section describes the geometric and operational characteristics defined for
freeways, arterial streets, collector streets and local residential streets in the City. The
descriptions are generally grouped by facility type and include the number of lanes, curb -to -
curb pavement width, presence of on -street parking, median, bike lanes or truck restrictions, and
average daily traffic volume.
Freeways generally provide inter -regional access. Their primary function is to move vehicles
through the City, thus, there is not access to adjacent land, and limited access to arterial streets.
Freeways contain anywhere from 4 to 12 lanes with recommended design volumes from 65,000
to 205,000 depending on geometric designs which permit high travel speeds.
Arterial streets are generally the commercial arteries. They carry the majority of traffic entering
or traveling through the City. A major arterial would contain either four or six lanes of through
traffic, plus left -turn lanes. Minor arterials serve the same function as major arterials, but have
four lanes of through traffic and may or may not have separate left -turn lanes. Recommended
design volumes on arterials range from 30,000 to 60,000 depending on number of lanes and left -
turn movements.
Arterials serve two primary functions to move vehicles into and through the City, and to serve
adjacent commercial land uses. Driveways and other curb cuts along arterials are generally
limited to minimize disruption to traffic flow.
Collector streets are intended to carry traffic between residential neighborhoods and the arterial
street network. They are generally two, and four -lane roadways which have a mixture of
residential and commercial land uses along them. Average daily traffic volumes on collector
streets are generally between 10,000 and 20,000. Higher density residential land uses or side
yards of single-family homes may be located adjacent to collector streets. Higher traffic volumes
may be acceptable on certain collector streets such as those with fronting commercial
development or extra wide cross sections.
Local residential streets are designed to serve adjacent residential land uses only. They allow
access to residential driveways and often provide parking for the neighborhood. They are not
intended to serve through traffic traveling from one street to another, but solely local traffic.
Traffic volumes on a residential street should not exceed about 2,500 vehicles per day and 200-
300 vehicles per hour. The maximum residential traffic volume which is acceptable to persons
living along a street may vary from one street to another depending upon roadway width, type
of dwelling units (i.e., high density apartments versus single-family homes), presence of schools
and other factors. The maximum volume of 2,500 is, therefore, to be used as a guide only.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DB0rcE1Ch2 n
DKS Associates
MPM ARTERIAL
COLLECTOR
Figure 2-1
DIAMOND BAR
EXISTING ROADWAY SYSTEM
Local residential streets include those streets predominantly residential in terms of adjacent
property use, and are intended to retain a residential character.
FREEWAYS
Physical characteristics and operating conditions of the two freeways running through the City
of Diamond Bar are described in the following paragraphs.
Orange Freeway (State Route 57) - The Orange Freeway is controlled and operated by the
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). In addition to carrying traffic generated
by Diamond Bar, the corridor serves as the principal north -south route connecting most of
Orange County to the south of Diamond Bar with Interstate 10 and the eastern Los Angeles -
western San Bernardino County areas to the north. The Orange Freeway and the Pomona
Freeway combine into one freeway for approximately one mile along the City's northwestern city
limit. Grade -separated interchanges within the City oir Diamond Bar include Diamond Bar
Boulevard/Brea Canyon Cut-off Road, Pathfinder Road, the Pomona Freeway, Grand Avenue,
and Sunset Crossing. Lane configuration varies from three to five lanes in each direction, with
six lanes total at its joining with the Pomona Freeway.
Pomona Freeway (State Route 60) - The Pomona Freeway is also controlled and operated by
Caltrans. It is the principal east -west facility through Diamond Bar operating within the
northern section of the city. The Pomona Freeway, along with Interstate 10, is a principle route
connecting downtown Los Angeles tp Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Interchanges
within the City of Diamond Bar include Brea Canyon Road, Grand Avenue, and Diamond Bar
Boulevard. Access to Chino Hills Parkway in the far eastern section of Diamond Bar is possible
via the Phillips Ranch Road interchange just north of the Diamond Bar/Pomona city boundary.
The Pomona Freeway consists of four lanes each direction as it enters Diamond Bar from the
west, increasing to. six lanes each direction as it combines with the Orange Freeway. After it
diverges from the Orange Freeway, it decreases to four lanes for approximately 1/4 mile, then
decreases to three lanes as it enters Pomona.
ARTERIAL STREETS
Physical characteristics and operating conditions of the 12 arterial facilities within the City are
described in the following paragraphs.
Diamond Bar Boulevard - Diamond Bar Boulevard is a four -lane major arterial of varying width
which originates in south Diamond Bar at the Orange Freeway, and exits Diamond Bar in the
north at Temple Road where it continues into Pomona as Mission Boulevard. The roadway
generally follows a northeast -southwest direction as it cuts through central Diamond Bar.
Diamond Bar Boulevard acts as an extension of Brea Canyon Cut-off Road, drastically changing
the general direction of the roadway as it curves beneath the Orange Freeway from a northwest -
southeast route west of the freeway. It has an 84 -foot curb -to -curb width and a 14 -foot median
between the Orange Freeway and Fountain Springs Road, widening to 100 feet with a 20 -foot
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircE1Ch2 S-4
median between Fountain Springs Road and Clear Creek Canyon. The roadway has a width
of 84 feet between Clear Creek Canyon Road and Steep Canyon Road, 96 feet from Steep
Canyon Road to the south Pomona Freeway ramp, and 84 feet from the Pomona Freeway to
Temple Road with a 14 -foot median throughout. Wide class, H bike lanes, which are painted
and signed, exist along the curb lanes throughout the entire length of the roadway. Parking is
prohibited throughout its length except for some restricted parking adjacent to the northbound
approach to Grand Avenue. The section of roadway between Golden Springs Drive and the
north Orange Freeway ramp is designated a truck route to permit truck traffic between the
Orange and Pomona freeways. Average Daily Traffic (ADT) volumes along Diamond Bar
Boulevard range from 17,400 to 32,800, with the heaviest congestion between Pathfinder Road
and Sunset Crossing Road with ADT volumes over 24,400.
Brea Canyon Cut-off Road - Brea Canyon Cut-off Road is a two-lane northwest -southeast minor
arterial in southwest Diamond Bar. It runs from the western Diamond Bar city limits to the
southernmost Orange Freeway interchange within the City. The roadway becomes Diamond
Bar Boulevard as it extends east of the interchange. Its width varies from 40 feet at its
entrance into the city to 84 feet at the Orange Freeway. Parking is unrestricted throughout.its
length. The ADT along Brea Canyon Cut-off Road is approximately 10,500 vehicles per day.
Colima Road - Colima Road is a four -lane major arterial running east -west from Diamond Bar's
westernmost limits to Brea Canyon Road, where it continues east as Golden Springs Drive.
It has a curb -to -curb width of 84 feet with a painted two-way left -turn lane, except for a section
between Lemon Avenue and the east Pomona Freeway ramp where it narrows to a width of
74 feet. The segment of roadway between Lemon Avenue and Brea Canyon Road is a
designated truck route. Parking aldwg Colima Road is prohibited east of Lemon Avenue.
Average daily traffic volumes along Colima Road range from 17,700 at the City's western limits
to 29,200 in the section of roadway between the eastbound SR -60 ramp and Brea Canyon Road.
Golden Springs Drive - Golden Springs Drive is a four -lane minor arterial which originates as
an extension of Colima Road at Brea Canyon Road, and terminates at the Temple
Road/Avenida Rancheros intersection along Diamond Bar's northern city limits. It is initially
an east -west route with a painted median and a curb -to -curb width of 84 feet narrowing to 64
feet near the Orange Freeway overpass where the roadway turns towards the northeast. The
roadway widens to 78 feet through the Gateway Center Drive/Copley Drive corridor with an
intermittent north side shoulder and a 20 -foot raised median. It has a consistent width of 64
feet from Copley Drive to Temple Avenue with a painted median. Parking is prohibited south
of Ballena Road except near Brea Canyon Road. Parking is permitted in the residential area
north of Ballena Road with the exception of the southbound lanes between Ballena Road and
Sunset Crossing Road. ADT volumes along Golden Springs Drive range from 16,400 to 20,700
between Brea Canyon Road and Ballena Road, with lower volumes north of Ballena Road of
approximately 10,500 vehicles per day. Striped Class II bike lanes exist south of Diamond Bar
Boulevard, with an unstriped Class III bike route on both sides of the roadway north of
Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Grand Avenue - Grand Avenue is a four -lane major arterial with a 13 -foot median and a curb -
to -curb width of 84 feet throughout its length. It originates at the Orange/Pomona Freeway
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
336W.DBCircEXh2 B-5
interchange at Diamond Bar's northwestern boundary with the City of Industry, and follows, a
southeast -northwest route through central Diamond Bar. Grand Avenue curves towards the cast
as it continues into San Bernardino County. Current construction will extend Grand Avenue
from the Orange/Pomona Freeway interchange northwest through the City of Industry, where
the roadway will ultimately connect with the currently detached section of Grand Avenue in the
Ci of Walnut'. Parkin - -'-Grand
ty g is prohibited (although currently unsigned) along Avenue's
entire length. Due to the recent opening of Grand Avenue into the developing areas of Chino
Hills in San Bernardino County, volumes are still increasing as drivers change their travel
patterns. Recent ADT counts range from 27,400 near SR-57/SR-60 to 16,600 as the roadway
enters San Bernardino County.
Pathfinder Road - Pathfinder Road runs east -west from the City's western limits to Diamond
Bar Boulevard. West of Fernhollow Drive, it is a minor arterial of varying width with a painted
median. It is two lanes each direction with a curb -to -curb width of 65 feet from the city limit
to Brea Canyon Road west of the Orange Freeway. Very low ADT volumes of approximately
4,300 are found along this segment of Pathfinder Road. ' Between the two disjointed sections
of Brea Canyon Road which straddle the Orange Freeway, the width varies from a two-lane
roadway 42 feet wide at the western leg of Brea Canyon Road, to an 86 -foot roadway consisting
of one westbound lane and two eastbound lanes at the Brea Canyon Road-Fernhollow Drive
intersection to the east at Fernhollow Drive. Parking is prohibited east of Femhollow Drive
except for restricted angled parking along the south side of Pathfinder between Fernhollow
Drive and the north Orange Freeway ramp. ADT volumes within the two segments of Brea
Canyon Road range from 14,600 to 20,200.
East of Fernhollow Drive, Pathfinder*goad is a four -lane major arterial with a painted median
and a curb -to -curb width of 86 feet. Parallel parking is unrestricted east of Fernhollow Drive
except adjacent to westbound Pathfinder Road west of Evergreen Springs where parking is
prohibited from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM schooldays. Average daily traffic volumes east of Brea
Canyon Road-Fernhollow Drive are approximately 13,000 vehicles.
Brea Canyon Road - Brea Canyon Road is a minor arterial which parallels the Orange Freeway
as it enters the City of Diamond Bar from the south, and continues north through Diamond Bar
into the City of Industry. The roadway is divided into two separate sections which straddle the
Orange Freeway and intersect Pathfinder Road from opposing directions on either side.
The section of roadway east of the Orange Freeway and south of Pathfinder Road is a minor
arterial of varying width. It is two lanes with a width of 30 feet and an east side shoulder from
its southern entrance into the City to Copper Canyon Road, widening to four lanes with a width
of 64 feet and a west side shoulder between Copper Canyon Road and Diamond Bar Boulevard.
The roadway narrows to two lanes with a width of 38 feet and a west side shoulder south of
Cool Springs Drive, and 30 feet with an east side shoulder between Cool Springs Drive and
Fountain Springs Road. It widens to 64 feet between Fountain Springs Road and Pathfinder
Road. Parking is not permitted south of Pathfinder Road except for unrestricted parking just
ecerr beX .
..................................
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-6
north of Diamond Bar Boulevard, and south of Pathfinder adjacent to the high school where
parking is restricted on both sides. Traffic volumes south of Pathfinder Road average between
4,400 and 8,000 vehicles per day.
On the west side of the Orange Freeway, Brea Canyon Road continues north of Pathfinder
Road to Colima Road as two-lane minor arterial with a curb -to -curb width of 36 feet. Its width
varies between 52 feet and 72 feet between Via Sorella Road and Gerndale Street with one
northbound lane, two southbound lanes, and a painted median. Between Gerndale Street and
Colima Road its width varies between 72 feet and 84 feet with two lanes each direction.
Parking is prohibited along the entire length between Pathfinder Road and Colima Road. ADT
volumes range from 10,100 at Pathfinder Road to 15,500 just south of Colima Road.
North of Colima Road, Brea Canyon Road becomes a four -lane major arterial with a width of
84 feet and a painted median. It is a designated truck route with parking restricted only
between Lycoming Street and the northern city limits on .the streets west side. North of Colima
Road, ADT volumes along Brea Canyon Road range from 20,500 to 32,700.
Sunset Crossing - Sunset Crossing is primarily an east -west collector road running from Golden
Springs Drive to the City's western limits, but provides access to truck and heavy vehicular
traffic between the southbound Orange Freeway ramp and Diamond Bar Boulevard. This
section is classified as a minor arterial consisting of a four -lane undivided roadway with a curb -
to -curb width of 64 feet, and continues west as a minor arterial to Big Falls Drive where it
reduces to a residential street. It terminates as a cul-de-sac west of Big Falls Drive. Parking
is prohibited within the section between the Orange Freeway ramp and Diamond Bar Boulevard.
The ADT volume along the section off unset Crossing Road west of the Orange Freeway ramps
is 5,800 vehicles.
Lemon Avenue - Lemon Avenue is a north -south four -lane major arterial which extends south
into the City of Diamond Bar from the City of Industry to Colima Road, where it continues
south reducing to a residential street. It has a curb -to -curb width of 84 feet with a 14 -foot
raised median. Parking is unrestricted except along the east side of the roadway south of
Lycoming Road. Lemon Avenue is a designated truck route allowing commercial traffic to
access the Pomona Freeway from the heavy industrial areas to the north. Average traffic
volumes are approximately 12,100 vehicles per day.
Walnut Drive - Walnut Drive is a four -lane minor arterial which extends west from Lemon
Avenue into the City of Industry. It is a designated truck route with parking prohibited along
its entire length. The roadway has a curb -to -curb width of 48 feet, with ADT volumes of 5,200
vehicles.
Chino Hills Parkway - Chino Hills Parkway is a four -lane major arterial which runs north -
south in the easternmost section of the City of Diamond Bar. The roadway extends north into
the City of Pomona where it becomes Phillips Ranch Road, with access to the Pomona Freeway
just north of the city limits. To the south, Chino Hills Parkway extends into San Bernardino
County. The roadway has a curb -to -curb width of 84 feet, and parking is unrestricted. Current
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19.92
336KDBCtrcEXh2 B-7
ADT counts of 8,100 vehicles should be expected to increase significantly due to significant
development within the immediate area.
Chino Avenue - Chino Avenue is a tvto-lane minor arterial which extends into San Bernardino
County approximately 1/4 -mile east of Chino Hills Parkway. It has a_curb-to-curb width of 64
feet, with unrestricted parking. Traffic volumes along Chino Avenue are currently 4,500 vehicles
per day.
COLLECTOR STREETS
Streets within the City of Diamond Bar which have been designated as collector streets are
listed below. Streets have been divided into five zones and two groups consisting of major
collectors and minor collectors.
Zone 1 (West of the Orange Freeway, South of Industry)
Major Collectors:
Washington Street
Lycoming Street
Lemon Avenue (south of Colima Road)
Minor Collectors:
Gerndale Street
Glenbrook Drive
Flintgate Drive
Calboume Drive
Willow Bud Drive
Peaceful Hills Road
Shaded Wood Drive
Canyon Ridge Road
Fallowhead Court
Zone 2 (East of the Orange Freeway, West of Diamond Bar Boulevard, and South of Grand
Avenue)
Major Collectors:
Gateway Center Drive
Copley Drive
Valley Vista Drive
Bridge Gate Drive
Montefino Avenue
Mountain Laurel Way
Maple Hill Road
Kiowa Crest Drive
Morning Canyon Road
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCivcEXh2
B-8
Evergreen Springs Drive
Fountain Springs Road
Cold Springs Lane
Minor Collectors:
Birdseye Drive
Acacia Hill Road
Silver Hawk Drive
Santaquin Drive
Fernhollow Drive
Castlerock Road
Zone 3 (East of Diamond Bar Boulevard, South of Grand Avenue)
Major Collectors:
Derringer Lane
Ridge Line Road
Minor Collectors:
Quail Summit Drive
Rolling Knoll Drive
Steeplechase Lane
Shadow Canyon Drive
Zone 4 (South of the Pomona Freely and North of Grand Avenue)
Major Collectors:
Golden Prados Drive
Gold Rush Drive
Aramitos Place
Leyland Drive
Summitridge Drive
Longview Drive
Minor Collectors:
Palomino Drive
Ballena Drive
Carpio Drive
Great Bend Drive
Cove Place
Highcrest Drive
Steep Canyon Road
Clear Creek Canyon Drive
Cleghorn Drive .
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-9
Zone S (North of the Pomona Freeway, East of Industry)
Major Collectors:
Sunset Crossing Road (east of Diamond Bar Boulevard)
Prospectors Road
Minor Collectors:
Highland Valley Road
High Knob Road
Del Sol Lane
Decorah Road
Sylvan Glen
LOCAL STREETS
All streets in the City of Diamond Bar not designated as freeways, arterials, or collectors are
local streets.
2. ROADWAY SEGMENT CHARACTERISTICS
T" A summaryzes of the existing roadway characteristics includenl3 number of lanes,
sted s arkin restrictions resence of sidewalks bike lanes etc. for all freeways,
arterials and selected collector streets, within the City is contained in the anuendix to this
doc_ umentl. Characteristics are for both directions of roadway unless otherwise noted. _
Roadway traffic operation is generally evaluated by the ratio of existing daily traffic volumes to
the daily roadway capacity. Capacity is measured in terms of the ability of the street system to
meet and serve the demands placed on it. It is generally considered the most practical measure
of how well the mobility needs of the City are being met.
Average daily capacity is the theoretical maximum number of vehicles that can pass over a
segment of roadway in 24 hours. The capacity of a roadway is affected by a number of factors
including roadway type, street and lane widths, the number of travel lanes, the number of
crossing roadways, signal cycle length, the absence or presence of on -street parking, the number
of driveways, pavement conditions and roadway design. Level of service C volumes are used
to define the maximum desirable volumes as the evaluation criteria for this study. Table 3-2 21
presents the maximum desirable service volumes of various roadway configurations for different
levels of service.
1 Reorganized to conform more closely to other elements of General Plan.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircE1Ch2
R -in
Table 34 2-1
Daily Roadway Capacity Values
Maximum Average Daily
Volumes by Level of Service
?L+' pe of Roadway
A
B
C
D
E
6 Lanes Divided
33,900
39,400
45,000
50,600
56,300
4 Lanes Divided
22,500
26,300
30,000
33,800
37,500
4 Lanes (Undivided)
15,000
17,500
20,000
22,500
25,000
2 Lanes (Undivided)
7,500
8,800 , .
10,000
11,300
12,500
Local Road
3,000
3,500
4,000
4,500
5,000
Table 33 2_2 lists existing average daily volumes and volume -to -capacity ratios along arterials
while Figure 3-2 2_2 displays these daily traffic volumes graphically. Most values shown are
based either upon single day counts or an average of multiple daily counts for typical days,
generally accepted to be Tuesday throUb Thursday with traffic unaffected by holidays, inclement
weather, or other impediments to normal traffic conditions. Average daily volumes obtained
prior to 1990 have been modified by an annual growth factor of 2%.
3. INTERSECTION OPERATING CONDITIONS
Operating conditions have been analyzed at 31 key signalized intersections and three
unsignalized intersections. Traffic volumes for each intersection were collected on a typical
weekday during AM and PM peak traffic periods. Morning peak hour counts were taken
between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and evening peak hour counts were taken between 4:00 PM
and 6:00 PM.
Signalized Intersections
The measured volume was then compared to estimate capacity to determine the volume -to -
capacity (V/C) ratio. Based on the volume -to -capacity ratio, each intersection is described by
a level of service (LOS).
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-11
Table 2-2
City of Diamond Bar Arterials
Average Daily Traffic and Volume -to -Capacity Ratios
Location
Daily
Volunm-to
Capacity (a)
Volume
Capacity Ratio
Diamond Bar Boulevard:
e/o Brea Canyon Road
30,000
17,400
0.58
s/o Fountain Springs Road
30,000
20,700 (b)
0.69
s/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
27,000 (b)
0.90
n/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
28,200
0.94
s/o Grand Avenue
30,000
31,000
1.03
n/o Grand Avenue
30,000
24,400
0.81
n/o Steep Canyon Road
30,000
25,000 (b)
0.83
S/0 Golden Springs Drive
30,000
29,300
0.98
n/o Golden Springs Drive
30,000
32,800
1.09
s/o Sunset Crossing Road
30,000
31300
1.04
n/o Highland Valley Road
30,000
18,600 (b)
0.62
s/o Temple Avenue p
30,000
16,700
0.56
Colima Road:
w/o Calbourne Drive
30,000
17,700
0.59
w/o Lemon Avenue
30,000
19,800
066
e/o Lemon Avenue
30,000
19,900
0.66
w/o Pomona Freeway
30,000
22,100
0.74
w/o Brea Canyon Road
30,000
29,200
0.97
Golden Springs Road:
e/o Brea Canyon Road
30,000
19,300
0.64
w/o Copley Drive
30,000
18,000 (b)
0.60
w/o Grand Avenue
30,000
19,700
0.66
e/o Grand Avenue
30,000
20,700
0.69
w/o Prospectors Road
20,000
16,500 (b)
0.83
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
20,000
16,600 (b)
0.83
e/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
20,000
16,400 (b)
0.82
w/o Sunset Crossing Road
20,000
10,400 (b)
0.52
s/o Temple Avenue
20,000
10,600
0.53
Grand Avenue:
w/o Golden Springs Drive
30,000
27,400
0.91
(a) Capacity represents level of service C traffic flow conditions.
(b) 1989 count adjusted by 2% growth factor.
33699.Table2-2
Table 2-2
City of Diamond Bar Arterials
Average Daily Traffic and Volume -to -Capacity Ratios
Pathfinder Road:
Daily
Location
Capacity (a)
Volume
e/o Orange Freeway (NB)
30,000
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
e/o Golden Springs Drive
30,000
24,700
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
23,600
e/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
19,700
e/o Longview
30,000
16,600
Pathfinder Road:
w/o Peaceful Hills Road
30,000
W/o Orange Freeway (SB)
25,000
e/o Orange Freeway (NB)
30,000
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
Brea Canyon Road:
s/o Silver Bullet Drive
10,000
n/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
10,000
s/o Pathfinder Road
10,000
n/o Pathfinder Road
10,000
n/o Via Sorella
25,000
s/o Colima Road
30,000
n/o Colima Road
30,000
n/o Pomona Freeway
30,000
n/o Lycoming Street
30,000
n/o Washington Street
30,000
Brea Canyon Cut -Off Road:
s/o Pathfinder Road
10,000
Sunset Crossing Road:
w/o Orange Freeway
20,000
Lemon Avenue:
n/o Colima Road
30,000
Walnut Drive:
w/o Lemon Avenue
20,000
(a) Capacity represents level of service C traffic flow conditions.
(b) 1989 count adjusted by 2% growth factor.
33699.Table2-2
4,300
14,600
20,200
13,000
8,000
4,400
7,600
10,100
10,200
15,500 (b)
28,300 (b)
32,700 (b)
26,500
20,500
Volume -to
apacity Ratio
0.82
0.79
0.66
0.55
0.14
0.58
0.67
0.43
0.80
0.44
0.76
1.01
0.41
0.52
0.94
1.09
0.88
0.68
10,500 1.05
5,800 (b) 0.29
12,100 0.40
5,200 0.26
Table 2-2
City of Diamond Bar Arterials
Average Daily Traffic and Volume—to—Capacity Ratios
Location C
Chino Hills Parkway:
n/o Chino Avenue
Chino Avenue:
e/o Chino Hills Parkway
(a) Capacity represents level of service C traffic flow conditions.
(b) 1989 count adjusted by 2% growth factor.
33699.Table2-2
Daily Volume—to
Volume Capacity Ratio
30,000 8,100 0.27
10,000 4,500 0.45
DKS Associates
Figure 2-2
EXISTING DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES
The Intersection Capacity Utilization (ICU) was the methodology used to determine operating
levels of service at signalized intersections. Level of service values were assumed, as shown in
Table 3-4 2_-3. Within urban areas, LOS D is typically assumed to be the maximum acceptable
LOS during peak hour traffic. At LOS E, congestion begins to occur in quantities and for
durations beyond acceptable limits. Although it is theoretically impossible to observe LOS_F,
it serves to indicate that the travel demand for the intersection exceeds the capacity. Without
mitigation measures to increase the capacity of the intersection during LOS E and LOS F,
congestion will occur during the peak hour. The duration of the congestion is dependent upon
many operational considerations which can be evaluated during the actual operation of the
intersection. Hourly lane capacities of 1,600 vehicles per lane per hour were assumed with 0.10
additional increment for yellow or loss time. This is consistent with the most recent
recommendations included in the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Plan.
Table 33 2_4 displays the results of the level of service analysis for the 33 signalized
intersections for both AM and PM peak traffic periods. Figure 33 22-3 displays these signalized
intersections, in addition to AM and PM peak LOS for ifiose intersections with deficient levels
of service.
During the AM peak period, five signalized intersections in the City operate at level of
service E or F and experience very poor operating conditions and significant delay. The
intersections at level of service E or F are:
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Brea Canyon Road
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Mountain Laurel Way
• Pathfinder Road/SB SR -57 ramps
The remaining 31 signalized intersections are currently operating at levels of service A through
D during, the morning peak periods 'which indicate acceptable operating conditions.
During the PM peak period, eight signalized intersections experience level of service E or F.
Those intersections which experience significant delay are:
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Pathfinder Road
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Mountain Laurel Way
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Grand Avenue
• Diamond Bar Boulevard/Temple Avenue
• Golden Springs Road/Grand Avenue
• Brea Canyon Road/WB SR -60 ramps
Acceptable levels of service exist at the remaining 30 signalized intersections during PM peak
periods.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699 DBCircELCh2 B-16
Table 3-4 2-3
Level of Service Interpretation
Volume -to
Level of Capacity
Service Description Ratio
A Excellent operation. All approaches to the intersection 0-.60
appear quite open, turning movements are easily made,
and nearly all drivers find freedom of operation.
B Very good operation. Many drivers begin to feet .61-.70
somewhat restricted within platoons of vehicles. This
represents stable flow. An approach to an intersection
may occasionally be fully utilized and traffic queues
start to form.
C Good operation. Occasionally drivers may have to .71-.80
wait more than 60 seconds, and back-ups may develop
behind turning vehicles. Most drivers feel somewhat
restricted.
D Fair operation. Cars are sometimes required to wait .81-.90
more than 60 seconds during short peaks. There are
no long-standing traffic queues. This level is
UTically associated with desmon practice for peak
erp iods•
ft
E Poor operation. Some long-standing vehicular .91-1.00
queues develop on critical approaches to intersections.
Delays may be up to several minutes.
F Forced flow. Represents jammed conditions. Backups Over 1.00
from locations downstream or on the cross street may
restrict or prevent movement of vehicles out of the
intersection approach lanes; therefore, volumes carried
are not predictable. Potential for stop and go type
traffic flow.
Source: Based on National Academy of Sciences, Highway Capacity Manual, 1965 and 1986.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCbcELCh2 B-17
m
Table 2-4
AM and PM Peak Hour Level of Service
at Signalized intersections
33699.Table2-4.wk1
AM Peak Hour
PM Peak Hour
Intersection
Volume -to-
Capacity
Level of
Service
Volume -to-
Capacity Pa ty
Level of
Service
Diamond Bar Blvd./Brea Canyon Rd.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Cold Springs Ln.
Diamond Bar Blvd. /Sugar Pine Place
Diamond Bar Blvd. /Pathfinder Rd.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Mountain Laurel Way
Diamond Bar Blvd./Grand Ave.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Golden Springs Dr.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Vons/K-mart Entrance
Diamond Bar Blvd./EB 60 Ramp
Diamond Bar Blvd./WB 60 Ramp
Diamond Bar Blvd./Sunset Crossing Rd.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Highland Valley Rd.
Diamond Bar Blvd./Temple Ave.
1.32
0
0.61
0.78
0.94
0.80
0.46
0.49
0.73
0.80
0.76
0.43
0.90
F
B
B
C
E
C
A
A
C
C
C
A
D
0.88
0.74
0.69
0.95
0.94
1.26
0.73
0.86
0.75
0.64
0.82
0.54
0.97
D
C
B
E
E
F
C
D
C
B
D
A
E
Colima Rd./Lemon Ave.
Colima Rd./EB 60 Ramp
a
0.59
0.66
A
B
0.72
0.73
C
C
Golden Springs Dr./Colima Rd. & Brea Canyon Rd.
Golden Springs Dr./Gateway Center Dr.
Golden Springs Dr. /Copley Dr.
Golden Springs Dr./Grand Ave.
Golden Springs Dr./Ballena Dr.
Golden Springs Dr./Temple Ave.
0.42
0.36
0.39
0.74
0.43
0.63.
A
A
A
C
A
B
0.88
0.78
0.64
0.93
0.82
0.63
D
C
B
E
D -
B
Grand Ave./EB 60 Ramp
Grand Ave./Montefmo Ave.
Grand Ave./Summitridge Dr.
Grand Ave./Longview Dr.
0.58
0.64
0.80
0.56
A
B
C
A
0.75
0.82
0.73
0.60
C
D
C
A
Pathfinder Rd./SB 57 Ramp
Pathfinder Rd./NB 57 Ramp
Pathfinder Rd./Brea Canyon Rd. & Fern Hollow Dr.
Pathfinder Rd./Evergreen Springs Dr.
1.24
0.84
0.52
0.50
F
D
A
A
0.76
0.73
0.85
0.60
C
C
D
A
Brea Canyon Rd./WB 60 Ramp
Brea Canyon Rd./Lycoming St.
Brea Canyon Rd./Washington St.
0.86
0.49
0.50
D
A
A
1.02
0.59
0.60
F
A
A
Chino Hills Pkwy. /Chino Ave.
0.33
A
0.28
A
33699.Table2-4.wk1
• DKS Associates
SMALOW AFTER DATA
I LOS
Figure 2 - 3
DIAMOND BAR MAJOR INTERSECTION LOCATIONS
AND DEFICIENT PEAK HOUR LEVELS OF SERVICE
Unsignalized Intersections
Three unsignalized intersections which exist at Orange Freeway ramps were also chosen for
analysis. Both the northbound and southbound Orange Freeway ramps at the Diamond Bar
Boulevard/Brea Canyon Cut-off Road are currently controlled by stop signs on the ramp
approaches only. The southbound Orange Freeway ramp at Sunset Crossing Road n
intersection containing a stop sign on all three approaches. is a e r type
Analysis of unsignalized intersections is conducted differently from signalized intersections due
to different operating characteristics. At signalized locations, all approaches to the intersection
are subject to delay by a red signal intersection. Delay at unsignalized intersections is
dependent upon the approach, its requirement to stop, and the distribution of traffic between
approaches.
Minor Street Stop Controlled Intersections - For intersections where only the minor street is
required to stop, only the minor street traffic and left turning traffic from the major street are
subject to delay. The major street through movement is never forced to stop to accommodate
traffic. A level of service is, therefore, calculated for the minor street traffic movements and
the major street left turns only. Major street traffic is not constrained and measurement of a
level of service is not possible.
The traffic performing constrained movements at such an intersection must wait for gaps in
major street traffic before proceeding through the intersection. The level of service for any
traffic movement is based on reserve„or unused, capacity of the lanes involved.
The 1985 Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) procedure for unsignalized intersections was used
to evaluate the operating conditions of stop controlled intersections.
All -Way Stop Controlled Intersections - The capacity of multi -way stop controlled intersections
is a function of the number of approach lanes and of the departure headways of vehicles
crossing from a stopped position. At capacity, operations are relatively predictable, with queues
developing along each approach and vehicles discharging in a regular manner. The capacity is
greatest when the demand volume is evenly split between the crossing facilities. A characteristic
of intersections with a 50/50 demand is that vehicle delay tends to be uniform, and because of
the regular discharge pattern, is tolerated by most drivers. Lesser capacities and more variable
distribution of delay occurs where demand is not as evenly split among the approaches.
Although detailed level of service techniques for this type of intersection are not included in
the Highway Capacity Manual, estimated capacities for various geometric configurations and
traffic volume characteristics are presented.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699 DBCircELCh2
R_7n
Table 34 2_5 shows the results of capacity analysis for the three unsignalized intersections
studied.
Figure 3-3 2-3 displays the locations of the unsignalized intersections which were analyzed, in
addition to AM and PM peak levels of service. Intersections with minor street stop control
displays the LOS for the movement found to have the lowest level of service.
4. EXISTING THROUGH TRAFFIC AND RESIDENTIAL INTRUSION
Traffic on the streets of Diamond Bar consist of motorists who live, work and shop in the City
of Diamond Bar plus motorists who are passing through the City but do not stop for any reason.
The alignment of the City's three most significant arterials, Diamond Bar Boulevard, Colima
Road/Golden Springs Drive, and Grand Avenue results in large volumes of through traffic.
Currently, during peak commute periods, congestion is heavy along SR -57 and SR -60,
particularly through the one -mile long section of freeway within Diamond Bar where SR -57
merges with SR -60, and in the segment immediately east of SR -57 where the capacity of SR -60
is reduced to three travel lanes in each direction. Congestion is particularly heavy during PM
peak traffic. Diamond Bar Boulevard is an attractive alternative route, primarily due to
interchanges with the freeway at both the southern and northern sections of the City. Diamond
Bar Boulevard intersects with the Orange Freeway south of the merger, and at the northern
divergence of the Orange and Pomona freeways. In addition, it serves as a shortcut to traffic
traveling to or from San Bernardino County via Grand Avenue. These factors result in a large
intrusion of commuter traffic using Diamond Bar Boulevard to travel between areas to the south
of the City and jurisdictions north and east of Diamond Bar.'
Colima Road and Golden Springs Drive are also utilized as an alternative route for avoiding the
congested segment of combined freeway. During AM peak traffic, the route is utilized by traffic
traveling west from SR -60 and southbound SR -57 towards the westbound SR -60 corridor west
of the City of Diamond Bar. The Diamond Bar Boulevard exit is used to access Golden Springs
Drive, with traffic continuing west on Colima Road eventually reentering westbound SR -60
beyond the point of congestion. The same route is also used during PM peak traffic with traffic
exiting eastbound SR -60 at either the Azusa Avenue, Fullerton Road, Nogales Street, or Brea
Canyon Road exits, and entering either eastbound SR -60 or northbound SR -57 at Diamond Bar
Boulevard.
Grand Avenue is currently the only east -west route which directly serves the developing Chino
Hills area. Although SR -60 is accessible to the north, heavy congestion along the freeway
makes Grand Avenue an attractive route for vehicular traffic traveling between the Diamond
Bar, Chino Hills, and Los Serranos areas of San Bernardino County and areas west of Diamond
Bar along the SR -60 corridor towards Los Angeles and south of the. City along the SR -57
corridor towards Brea and northern Orange County.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-21
Table 2-5
AM and PM Pesti Hour Level of Service
at Unsignalized intersections
Intersection
Movement
AM Peak
PM Peak
LOS
LOS
Sunset Crossing Rd./SB 57 Ramp
All Movements*
E
A
Diamond Bar Blvd./SB 57 Ramps
WB Diamond Bar Blvd., Left Turn
F
SB 57 Off -ramp Left Tufn
F
A
SB 57 Off -ramp Through
F
E
SB 57 Off -ramp Right Turn
A
D
A
Diamond Bar Blvd./NB 57 Ramps
EB Diamond Bar Blvd. Left Turn
C
NB 57 Off -ramp Left Turn
F
A
F
NB 57 Off -ramp Through
E
D
NB 57 Off -ramp Right Turn
A
F
a
*All -way stop controlled intersection.
33699. Table2-5
License Plate Survey
To quantify the magnitude of through trips within the City of Diamond Bar, a license plate
survey was conducted at seven 0 k locations (designated as stations A through
G) throughout the City. These locations were comprised of eight inbound and seven outbound
stations which are described in Table 3-7 2_6. The survey was conducted over a typical two-
day period2 during PM peak traffic periods. Due to high volumes, a sampling of the vehicle
license plates was recorded as they passed inbound/outbound survey stations. A computer match
was then performed comparing the license plates of vehicles entering the City at a particular
location with those noted at each outbound station. A match was then compared with the
previously determined travel time from inbound to outbound station. If a vehicle was noted
entering the City at one point and exiting the City at another point within a specific fraction
of the accepted travel time, the trip was assumed to be a through trip.
Due to the large number of survey stations and high traffic volumes, only a portion of the
vehicles passing a survey •station were noted. The sampling consisted of white cars, which
typically comprise approximately 20%-25% of traffic. Total traffic volumes for the survey period
were established for each survey station, in addition to roadway segments within the City which
lie along one or more through trip routes using ADT count and PM peak intersection turning
movement count data.
To account for white vehicles missed during the survey due to either high traffic volumes, large
vehicle queues, obscured or missing plates, or missing survey time increments, an expansion
factor was derived to increase white vehicle volumes obtained to a theoretical volume of white
vehicles which would be expected to'pass each survey station. For this survey, it was assumed
that white vehicles comprised 20% of the total traffic volume. This was verified through a two-
day field observation prior to the survey. The total number of white vehicle matches for each
inbound/outbound pairing were then adjusted by the product of the inbound and outbound
station expansion factors. This value was again increased by a multiple of five to convert white
vehicle through trip volumes to total through trip volumes. Finally, through trip volumes for
the two days were averaged to establish typical PM peak traffic through trips volumes.
License plate matching between inbound and outbound stations was performed by computer.
In addition to exact matches, "near" matches were considered in which similar sounding
characters were replaced, consecutive characters were transposed, and single characters were
dropped or ignored such that only three of the four characters were considered.
Travel times corresponding to license plate matches were then compared with expected travel
times measured during the first day of the survey for each inbound/outbound station pairing.
License plate matches with travel times greater then ±8 minutes of the expected travel time
were eliminated from consideration. Verifications of the remaining matches were made from
original data. Matches were then weighted to address questions regarding the validity of near
2 Wednesday, March 27, and Thursday, March 28, 1991.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircE1Ch2 B-23
Table 2-6
Through Trip Traffic License Plate Survey Locations
STATION
DIR
LOCATION
A-1
NB
Brea Canyon Rd. n/o Diamond Bar Blvd.
A-2
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd. c/o Brea Canyon Rd.
A-3
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd. c/o Brea Canyon Rd.
B-4
NB
57 Freeway off -ramp s/o Pathfinder Rd.
B-5
SB
57 Freeway on-ramp s/o Pathfinder Rd.
C-6
EB
Colima Rd. c/o Western City Limit
C-7
WB
Colima Rd. c/o Western City Limit
D -g
EB
EB 60 Freeway off -ramp n/o Colima Rd.
D-9
NB
Brea Canyon Rd. n/o Colima Rd.
E-10
EB
Grand Ave. c/o NB 57/EB 60 Freeway
E-11
WB
Grand Ave. c/o NB 57/EB 60 Freeway
F-12
WB
Grand Ave. w/o Longview Dr.
F-13
EB
Grand Ave. w/o Longview Dr.
G-14
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd. s/o EB 60 Freeway
G-15
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd. s/o EB 60 Freeway
33699.Table2-6.wkl
matches and matches with excessive travel times between stations. Matches were weighted so
that an acceptable percentage of "possible" matches would be considered as true matches or true
through trips.
Through trips with an inbound/outbound station travel time more then ±4 minutes of that
expected were analyzed and weighted differently then matches closer to expected travel times.
All verified and unverified exact matches were considered if the travel time corresponding to
the match was within the ±4 minutes of expected travel time range. It was assumed that only
some vehicles with excessive travel times were legitimate through trips. Excessive travel, times
could be attributable to the incorrect noting of the time during either the survey itself or while
transcribing cassette recorded data, unsynchronized surveyor watches, legitimate vehicle delay
due to large traffic queues, or to vehicles actually stopping within the City.
It was assumed that most vehicles actually stopping within the City to conduct business would
likely require more than 10 minutes, which was the maximum deviation from expected travel
time that was considered. Thus, most of the additional time is likely due to timing errors and
legitimate traffic delay. Two of three exact matches with excessive travel time were considered
if license plate matches were verified, while one-half were considered a match if only the first
four characters were known to be exact.
Only a portion of near matches and unverified exact matches were assumed to actually be the
same vehicle passing both the inbound and outbound station. In addition, the more the matches
travel time deviated from the expected travel time, the more likely were the chances that the
vehicles were not the same. Either 25% or 67% of near matches were considered actual
through trips for travel times withiti4he ±4 minute range, with the percentage of matches
considered dependant upon the characters in question and judgment regarding the likelihood
of the near matches being an actual match. Only 15% of unverified near matches exceeding
the ±4 minutes of expected travel time range were considered actual through trips.
After establishing the number of through trips between each inbound/outbound station pair,
through trip traffic percentages were calculated for each segment of roadway comprising all of
the possible through trip routes which vehicles were most likely to have traveled in their trip
through the City. For roadway segments containing a survey station, the total number of
through trips are based upon the summation of through trips for inbound/outbound station pairs
containing that station. Through trips percentages for internal arterial segments lying along
multiple through trip routes were calculated by summing all of the through trips whose routes
included the roadway segment under consideration.
Results
The three principal arterial routes within the City of Diamond Bar were found -to have
significant percentages of their total traffic volumes comprised of vehicles making through trips.
Most of the through trips found along the PM peak flow direction travel lanes of Diamond Bar
Boulevard, Colima Road/Golden Springs Drive, and Grand Avenue were observed exiting the
City into San Bernardino County along Grand Avenue.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-25
Through traffic traveling north along Diamond Bar Boulevard was assumed to have accessed
the City in the south from either the North 57 Freeway, Brea Canyon Road, or Brea Canyon
Cut -Off Road. Twenty two percent of the vehicles observed traveling along DiamondBar
Boulevard between Brea Canyon Road and Pathfinder Road were also observed exiting the City
north into Pomona or east into San Bernardino County. Approximately two-thirds of this
through trip traffic turned east onto Grand Avenue, while most of the remaining through trips
continued north along Diamond Bar Boulevard towards Pomona via either Diamond Bar
Boulevard or the Pomona Freeway. Additional traffic volumes and through trips are contributed
to northbound Diamond Bar Boulevard from Pathfinder Road. Twenty percent of the total
traffic along the route between Pathfinder Road and Grand Avenue were found to be making
through trips, with 12% of total traffic continuing east into San Bernardino County along Grand
Avenue and 6% continuing north on Diamond Bar Boulevard past the northernmost survey
station. Due to the large percentage of through trips along northbound Diamond Bar Boulevard
turning east onto Grand Avenue, smaller through trip percentages of total traffic are found
north of Grand Avenue. Along this segment of roadway, 8% to 10% of the total traffic
volumes were vehicles observed traveling from the City's southern limits north towards Pomona.
Through trip traffic along eastbound Colima Road accounts for 15%-18% of the total traffic.
Traffic was not observed entering the eastbound Pomona Freeway on-ramp located west of Brea
Canyon Road, but 3% of eastbound traffic west of the Pomona Freeway ramps and 7% of
traffic traveling east along the short segment of Colima Road east of the ramps was observed
traveling north on Brea Canyon Road. Five to seven percent of traffic along eastbound Colima
Road are destined for eastbound Grand Avenue and the Chino Hills area. Along northbound
Golden Springs Drive between Brea Canyon Road and Grand Avenue, 80/0 of the total traffic
volumes are through trip vehicles, witk 6% of the vehicles continuing east onto Grand Avenue.
Between Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard, through traffic accounts for only 4% of
northbound Golden Springs Drive traffic.
A significant percentage of vehicles using Grand Avenue fail to stop anywhere within the City.
During PM peak traffic, 22% of the vehicles exiting the Orange/Pomona Freeway and traveling
eastbound on Grand Avenue towards Golden Springs Drive continue their trip east into San
Bernardino County (with another 2% of through traffic traveling to other outbound stations).
Between Golden Springs Drive and Diamond Bar Boulevard, additional through trip traffic from
Golden Springs Drive increase the through trip percentage along Grand to 23% of total traffic
volumes. Grand Avenue east of Diamond Bar Boulevard is the arterial segment experiencing
is the largest volumes of through trip traffic with the City. Additional through trips from
Diamond Bar Boulevard traffic increases the through trip percentage traveling on eastbound
Grand Avenue to 42% of total traffic. Approximately one-third of this through trip traffic was
observed traveling along the entire length of Grand Avenue between the freeway and the City's
western limits.
Table 3-9 2_7 summarizes the total volumes, through trips, and through trip traffic percentages
which were determined to have traveled along all of the arterial segments comprising the various
through trip routes while Figure 3-4 2_4 displays these percentages graphically. Table 3-9 2-
8 summarizes the origin and destination of through trips along segments of arterials most
significantly impacted by PM peak traffic.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699 DBC&C&Ch2
B-26
Table 2-7
PM Peak Percentage of Through Trip Traffic
Dir. Roadway Segment From/To
Sampled
Volume
During
Survey
Sampled
Through
Trips
During
Survey
Through
Trips
Percentage
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Brea Canyon Rd./Pathfinder Rd.
3,360
736
22%
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Brea Canyon Rd./Pathfinder Rd.
829
46
6%
Total
4,189
782
19%
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Pathfinder Rd./Grand Ave.
4,950
977
20%
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Pathfinder Rd./Grand Ave.
2,092
62
3%
Total
7,042
1,039
15%
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Grand Ave./Golden Springs Dr.
2,670
280
10%
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Grand Ave:/Golden Springs Dr.
1,925
113
6%
Total
4,595
393
996
NB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Golden Springs Dr./EB 60 Freeway
3,339
361
11%
SB
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Golden Springs Dr./EB 60 Freeway
2,577
204
8%
Total
5,916
565
10%
EB
Colima Rd.
West City Limit/EB 60 Ramp
2,107
311
15%
WB
Colima Rd.
West City Limit/EB 60 Ramp
1,237
112
9%
Total
3,344
423
13%
EB
Colima Rd.
EB 60 Ramp/Brea Canyon Rd.
3,107
570
18%
WB
Colima Rd.
EB 60 Ramp/Brea Canyon Rd.
1,766
80
5%
Total
4,873
650
13%
EB
Golden Springs Dr.
Brea Canyon Rd./Grand Ave.
3,782
320
8%
WB
Golden Springs Dr.
Brea Canyon Rd./Grand Ave.
1,171
135
12%
Total
4,953
455
9%
NB
Golden Springs Dr.
Grand Ave./Diamond Bar Blvd.
2,286
81
4%
SB
Golden Springs Dr.
Grand Ave./Diamond Bar Blvd.
990
91
9%
Total
3,276
172
5%
33699.Table2-7
Table 2-7
PM Peak Percentage of Through Trip Traffic
Sampled
Sampled
Through
Volume
Trips
Through
Dir.
Roadway Segment
From/To
During
ung
Trips
Survey
Survey
Percentage
EB
Grand Ave.
60/57 Freeway/Golden Springs Dr.
2,651
WB
Grand Ave.
60/57 Freeway/Golden Springs Dr.
643
24 %
Total
1,617
163
10%
4,268
806
19%
EB
Grand Ave.
Golden Springs Dr./Diamond Bar Blvd.
3,486
WB
Grand Ave.
Golden Springs Dr./Diamond Bar Blvd.
1,660
803
23 %
Total
131
8%
5,146
934
18%
EB
Grand Ave.
Diamond Bar Blvd./San Bernardino Co.
3,638
WB
Grand Ave.
Diamond Bar Blvd./San Bernardino Co.
744
1,520
42%
Total
138
19%
4,382
1,658
38%
EB
Pathfinder Rd.
SB 57 Freeway/Brea Canyon Rd.
2,013
WB
Pathfinder Rd.
SB 57 Freeway/Brea Canyon Rd.
1,439
1
0%
Total
141
l0 %
3,452
142
4%
EB
Pathfinder Rd.
Brea Canyon Rd./Diamond Bar Blvd.
2,418
WB
Pathfinder Rd.
Brea Canyon Rd./Diamond Bar Blvd.,
836
242
10%
Total
Sg
7%
3,254
300
9%
NB
Brea Canyon Rd.
Diamond Bar Blvd. /Pathfinder Rd.
663
44
7%
NB
Brea Canyon Rd.
Colima Rd./WB 60 Freeway
1,923
395
21%
NB
Brea Canyon Rd.
Pathfinder Rd./Colima Rd.
1,149
115
SB
Brea Canyon Rd.
Pathfinder Rd./Colima Rd.
795
10%
Total
25
3 `�
1,944
140
7%
33699. Table2-7
til SCS Associates
(f
NOT
TO SCALE
so
C-7
C-6 4
-4
P PTMF;NOEA _
B o
Q
DIAMOND
BAR
0 2
q0
y Z
�y Y
-j 3i
J x0.
1
:HiNO ,V
20 '
��v9x
F-13
1
A-2
LEGEND
Ak INBOUND STATION
Oh OUTBOUND STATION
Figure 2-4
PM PEAK PERCENTAGE OF THROUGH TRIP TRAFFIC
le 2-8
Peak Direction Through Trip Traffic Composition for Significant Arterial Segments
Location
NB Diamond Bar Blvd.
Brea Canyon Rd. to Pathfinder Rd.
Pathfinder Rd. to Grand Ave.
Grand Ave. to Golden Springs Dr.
Golden Springs Dr. to EB 60 Freeway
33699.Table2-8.wk1
Through Through Through
Trip Trip Trip
Route Vehicles Percentao,
A2 - F13
451
13
A2 - G15
221
7
Others
64
2
TOTAL
736
22
A2 - F13
451
9
A2 - G15
221
4,
134 - F13
158
3
B4 -G15
49
1
e Others
98
2
TOTAL
977
20
A2 -G15
221
8
B4 -G15
49
2
Others
10
<1
TOTAL
280
10
A2 -G15
221
7
B4 -G15
49
1
C6 -G15
45
1
D8 -G15
22
1
Others
24
1
TOTAL
361
11
Table 2-9
PM Peak Direction Through Trip Traffic Composition for Significant Arterial
Through Through
Trip Trip
Location Route Vehicles
Segments
Through
Trip
Percentage
EB Colima Rd
West city limit to EB 60 Freeway
C6 - F13
145
7
Others
21
1
TOTAL
311
15
EB 60 Freeway to Brea Canyon Rd.
D8 - D9
160
5
Others
32
1
TOTAL
570
1&
EB Golden Springs Dr.
Brea Canyon Rd. to Grand Ave.
C6 - F13
145
4
Others
7
<1
TOTAL
320
8
Grand Ave. to Diamond Bar Blvd.
C6 - G15
45
2
Others
14
1
TOTAL
81
4
33699.Tuhle2-0.vvkl
(Table 2-8
E10 - F13
PM Peak Direction Through Trip Traffic Composition for Significant Arterial
Segments
Through Through
Through
Location Trip Trip
Trip
Route Vehicles
PercentAo,
-and Ave.
NB 57/EB 60 Freeway to Golden Springs Dr.
E10 - F13
583
22
Others
60
2
TOTAL
643
24
Golden Springs Dr. to Diamond Bar Blvd.
E10 - F13
583
17
C6 -F13
145
4
D8 -F13
66
2
Others
9
<1
TOTAL
803
23
Diamond Bar Blvd. to San Bernardino County
E10 - F13
583
16
A2 - F13
451
12
B4 - F13
158
4
C6 - F13
145
4
G14 - F13
104
3
D8 -F13
66
2
Others
13
<1
TOTAL
1,520
42
33699.Table2-8.wkl
Residential Neighborhood Intrusion
Needs Identification - Besides heavy commuter and significant through traffic volumes along
arterials within the City of Diamond Bar, problems of commuter traffic intrusion have been
identified by residents on others streets in the City.
Due to the extremely poor operating conditions and significant delay experienced at the
intersection of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue during PM peak periods (V/C =
1.46, LOS = l), local and collector streets within residential areas adjacent to this intersection
are often utilized by commuter traffic to bypass the heavily congested intersection.
Montefino Avenue is frequently used by traffic traveling between eastbound Grand Avenue and
southbound Diamond Bar Boulevard to avoid both the signal at Montefino Avenue and Grand
Avenue and heavy congestion at Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard. Commuter traffic
traveling between northbound Diamond Bar Boulevard and eastbound Grand Avenue overflows
onto a series of residential streets to avoid the congested intersections resulting in undesirable
through traffic volumes within the neighborhoods. Most of this vehicle intrusion is experienced
along Quail Summit Drive and Rolling Knoll Road, however, some vehicles turn right onto
Mountain Laurel Way further to the south and access Quail Summit Drive and Rolling Knoll
Road via Silver Rain Drive and Meadow Glen Drive.
Due to the lack of a north -south arterial within the northeastern section of Diamond Bar,
drivers often use a series of residential roadways, which together act as a collector system, to
travel between the Chino Hills/eastern Diamond Bar areas adjacent to. Grand Avenue, and
northern Diamond Bar. Traffic traveling between Golden Springs Drive and Grand Avenue
can shortcut congested Diamond Bar arterials via a north -south system of collector roadways
consisting of Carpio Drive (just south of the SR -60 overpass), Armitos Place, Leyland Drive,
and either Summitridge Drive or Longview Drive which both intersect Grand Avenue near the
City's border with San Bernardino County. An east -west collector system of roadways consisting
of Gold Rush Drive, Cove Place, and Highcrest Drive connects Diamond Bar Boulevard with
the north -south collector system at Armitos Place/Leyland Avenue providing a bypass for traffic
traveling between Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Travel on Diamond Bar Boulevard between SR -60 and Golden Springs Drive may choose
Palomino Drive to avoid congestion on Diamond Bar Boulevard or potential delay at Diamond
Bar Boulevard/Golden Springs Drive.
Intrusion of through traffic into residential neighborhoods has caused several problems, including
speeding particularly in the vicinity of schools, which need to be assessed and alleviated.
Assessing Procedures
To develop a clear understanding of the neighborhood traffic problems within the City, a field
study should be carried out for each case. The specific type of each field study will vary with
the nature of the problem, but generally information about traffic volume and potential through
traffic, speed and accidents are relevant. An engineering analysis should be performed for
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MO B I L I T Y
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCircELCh2 B-33
alternate solutions for each neighborhood traffic problem. It is important to include among the
alternatives those suggested by community groups. Probable impacts of each alternative should
be assessed, cost implications and effectiveness of each alternative are the primary criteria for
evaluation. Other impact that should be assessed include:
• effects on traffic volumes, time of day of travel, and traffic composition
• effects on trip lengths and circuity
• effects on vehicle operations, including stops and starts
• impacts resulting from changes in the above traffic and trip characteristics including
fuel consumption, pollutant emissions, noise impacts, and traffic safety
. impacts on neighborhood quality from the changes in the above characteristics
In addition to the direct impacts on the affected neighborhood and traffic, neighborhood traffic
control may have desirable or undesirable impacts on other streets or neighborhoods.
A thorough and comprehensive report on the alternatives and their likely consequences together
with a summary of citizen participation meetings should be prepared for presenting to the City
Council.
An after study should be performed to evaluate the in-place performance of each measure. The
following measures are among options for neighborhood traffic control:
• Stop signs
• Speed limit and speed zoning
• Turn prohibition
• One-way street designation
• Access restriction
• Lane reduction
• Choker installation
• Traffic circles
• Median barriers
• Diverters
• Channelization
• Cul-de-sacing
• Speed humps
• Raised intersections
5. TRANSIT SERVICE
Public bus transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the Southern California
Rapid Transit District RTD and Foothill Transit. " ' ` .R. .,.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCirCELCh2 B-34
Both fixed route transit and paratransit service operate within the City of Diamond Bar. Fixed
route transit services are typically bus lines which operate on regular schedules along a set
route, stopping at predefined bus stops. Fixed route service can be either local (intracity) or
regional (intercity). p nly-referred -to as Dial -a -Ride, are demand
responsive services which ip rovil de rides t passengt services, more ers upon aindividual
is. Although
they operate within a defined service area, they do nowt opera eonfixed routes �or schedules.
Paratransit service typically serve transit dependent persons such as the elderly and handicapped.
They often serve major destinations such as hospitals and medical facilities but may also take
passengers to local destinations such as neighborhood shopping centers.
Fixed Route
Three fixed route transit lines serve the City of Diamond Bar.
All three of these transit routes are intercity routes which
originate and terminate�•outside of the Diamond Bar city limits, with the exception of route 495
which originates at a park-and-ride lot within the City. Fares
,from $1.10 to $2.30 depending on origin and destination, ``:"' ` range
Figure 33 2-5 displays these routes graphically. The following
paragraphs describe the service provided by each line.
Route 482 - Route 482 is an eastfwest intercity transit line which connects the Los Angeles
Central Business District with Pomona. The route originates in Pomona and travels along Holt
Avenue, Valley Boulevard, and Temple Avenue before turning south onto Diamond Bar
Boulevard. It then services the City of Diamond Bar along Diamond Bar Boulevard to Golden
Springs Drive where it continues west exiting the City along Colima Road. The line goes
through the cities of Rowland Heights, Industry, Hacienda Heights, South El Monte, and El
Monte prior to entering the busway along the San Bernardino Freeway where it continues into
downtown Los Angeles. In addition to a Park -and -Ride facility at Diamond Bar Boulevard and
the Pomona Freeway, the route serves an additional Park -and -Ride lot at the Lanterman State
Hospital near Highland Valley Road. Service hours within the City of Diamond Bar are
between approximately 5:45 AM and 11:30 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and between
approximately 5:45 AM and 8:30 PM on Sundays and holidays. During the week, the line has
approximately 15 to 30 -minute headways during AM and PM peak hours, and one-hour
headways during the day and evening. There are approximately one-hour headways during the
weekends and holidays.
Route 490 - Route .490 is also an intercity route which connects the cities of Fullerton and Brea
to the south of Diamond Bar, with the cities of Walnut, Covina,
West aldwin Park,
El Monte, and the Los Angeles Central Business District. The lie originates,
esvina� eardCal State
Fullerton, and continues north where it also serves the Brea Mall. It then travels along the
Orange Freeway north into the City of Diamond Bar, exiting at Diamond Bar Boulevard. The
route operates within the City along the entire length of Diamond Bar Boulevard. It exits the
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOB [LIT Y
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCbcELCh2
R_'2 G
DKS Associates
• • • • • RTD - 490
Iililtllllii FOOTHILL TRANSIT - 495
�C PARK & RIDE LOT
Figure 2-5
EXISTING TRANSIT SERVICE ROUTES
City in the north turning west along Temple Avenue where it services Cal State Polytechnic
University and the Eastland Shopping Center before entering the West San Bernardino Freeway
at Azusa Avenue. Route 490 also services the two Park -and -Ride lots at the Diamond Bar
Boulevard/Pomona Freeway interchange and the Lanterman State Hospital. Access is provided
to disabled persons on nearly all buses serving this route. Service hours within the City of
Diamond Bar are between approximately 5:10 AM and 7:00 PM on weekdays, 6:50 AM and
8:00 PM on Saturdays, and 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM on Sundays and holidays. Within the City
of Diamond Bar, the line operates with approximately one-hour headways both during the week
and on the weekends.
Route 495 - Line 495 is an express route to downtown Los Angeles
:..: It originates at the Diamond Bar Park -and -Ride facility at the Diamond Bar%Pomona
Freeway interchange. Service is limited to weekday commute with AM peak hour departure
from the Park -and -Ride lot between 5:10 AM and 7:50 AM, and PM peak hour departures from
downtown Los Angeles between 3:20 PM and 6:20 PM: - Departures are at approximately 10 -
minute intervals.
Paratransit Service
Demand responsive transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the jointly
sponsored Los Angeles Countv and City of Diamond Bar Paratransit Service. This Dial -A -
Ride service provides transportation to handicapped persons and senior citizens within not only
the City of Diamond Bar but portions of the surrounding area. Transportation is limited to Los
Angeles County, and generally operates south of Valley Boulevard and east of 7th Avenue, with
service to medical facilities within the cities of Pomona, Walnut, Industry, and West Covina.
It operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at a cost of 50 cents.
6. RAILROADS: PASSENGER RAIL
There are currently no passenger rail facilities in operation within the City of Diamond Bar.
The nearest Amtrak facilities are located in Pomona and Fullerton. The Pomona Amtrak
station, which serves the Southwest Chief line, is located at 2701 Geary Avenue and is
approximately nine miles north of Diamond Bar. The Fullerton Amtrak station, which serves
the San Diegans line, is located at the corner of Sante Fe and Harbor Boulevard and is
approximately 13 miles to the south.
7. RAILROADS: FREIGHT RAIL
The Union Pacific Railroad is the only freight rail line which serves the City of Diamond Bar.
The line lies along the City's northwestern boundary with the City of Industry, and serves the
industrial areas north of Walnut Drive and Lycoming Street.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCiucEXh2
& BICYCLE ROUTES
There are three different classes of bikeways which are commonly recognized. A definition of
each bikeway class is presented below:
Class I Bikeway (Bike Path) - A completely separated right-of-way for the exclusive use of
bicycles (and sometimes pedestrians). Cross-flow is minimized by limiting access to designated
points.
Class II Bikeway (Bike Lane) - Routes designated by separately striped lanes and signs along
streets or highways. They provide restricted one-way travel for bicycles, although motor vehicles
are sometimes permitted to use the bike lane to make turns and to park.
Class III Bikeway (Bike Route) - Roadways in which the travel lanes are shared by motor
vehicles and bicycles whose route is designated by. This type of bikeway does. not provide
cyclists with increased privileges, but rather, informs motorists of the cycling route.
The City currently has two marked bikeways along both sides of the entire lengths of Diamond
Bar Boulevard and Golden Springs Drive. Diamond Bar Boulevard and Golden Springs Drive
west of Diamond Bar Boulevard contain Class II bike lanes. The width of the bike lanes vary
from 12 feet throughout most of the roadway to three feet at a few locations with narrower
curb -to -curb widths. Most signalized intersection bike lane approaches are striped to permit
right turns by motor vehicles. Parking is not permitted within the bike lanes except on Golden
Springs near Brea Canyon Road and the northbound lane of Diamond Bar Boulevard between
Montefino Avenue and Grand Avenue. Golden Springs Drive north of Diamond Bar Boulevard
is designated a Class III bike route on both sides of the roadway. An additional bikeway is
proposed for Brea Canyon Road between Pathfinder Road and Colima Road. Figure 3-6 2-
6 shows the existing designated bikeways within the City of Diamond Bar.
There are currently no Class I bikeways within the City of Diamond Bar.
The County plans to have bicycle routes serving the region that will connect with local bicycle
trails. The county system proposes bicycle trails to enter Diamond Bar at the eastern end of
Grand Avenue, and north into the Tres Hermanos property along Tonner Canyon. Surrounding
cities have also planned bicycle routes to connect into Diamond Bar north along Mission
Boulevard (City of Pomona), west along Grand Avenue and Brea Canyon Road (the Cities of
Walnut and Industry), and west along Colima Road (into Rowland Heights).
9. EQUESTRIAN TRAILS
There are currently no official equestrian trails available to the public within the City of
Diamond Bar, although a series of trails are proposed by the County of Los Angeles. Once
completed, these trails will be owned and maintained by the County.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DB0rcE1Ch2 B-38
DKS Assoclapes
LCutN0
®eee®o CLASS II
CLASS III
Figure 2-6
DIAMOND BAR t
Skyline Trails Extension
The principal equestrian trail planned for the Diamond Bar area is the Skyline Trails Extension,
unofficially called the Schabarum Trail. The proposed trail is 16 miles in length and directly
parallels the City's southern and eastern boundaries with unincorporated sections of Los Angeles
and San Bernardino counties as it winds through the hills between Brea Canyon Road and
Grand Avenue. The trail originates at Schabarum Park to the west, where it interconnects with
the Skyline Trail. The Skyline Trail, in turn, interconnects with a vast system of equestrian
trails to the north and west spreading throughout most of Los Angeles County. To the east of
Schabarum Park, the trail traverses Rowland Heights, then exits under Brea Canyon Road and
the Orange Freeway where it approaches the southern city limits of Diamond Bar to the east
of Brea Canyon Road. The trail then travels near the edge of the Firestone Boy Scout
Reservation near the northern slopes of Tonner Canyon. As the trail turns northeast, it
parallels the city boundary just inside of the city limits. It then enters San Bernardino County,
traveling just east of the County line. The trail terminates at Grand Avenue, where the Summit
Ridge Park Connector Trail will allow access to Summit Ridge Park to the north of Grand
Avenue within Diamond Bar. There are also a series of three spur trails which the County has
planned to connect with the Skyline Trails Extension Trail. These three trails, collectively
known as the Skyline Trails Connections, all lie outside of the City of Diamond Bar.
Figure ;4 22=7 shows proposed equestrian 'trails planned for the City of Diamond Bar.
10. AVIATION TRAVEL
There are no aviation facilities located within the City of Diamond Bar. Passenger air carrier
and air cargo facilities are located at Ontario International Airport located 15 miles to the east.
The closest general aviation airports are Brackett Field in La Verne, approximately nine miles
to the north; and Chino Airport in the City of Chino, approximately 11 miles to the east.
11. TRUCK ROUTES
The City has established a designated truck route plan. Truck routes direct heavy truck traffic
onto arterial and collector facilities and away from local (residential) streets. This plan helps
control noise and air pollution in residential areas of the City and protects local streets from
significant surface damage that might result from heavy truck traffic. North of the ,combined
section of the Orange/Pomona Freeway, it is necessary for freeway traffic to exit onto Diamond
Bar Boulevard when traveling southbound on the Orange Freeway, en route to the eastbound
Pomona Freeway; and westbound Pomona Freeway traffic bound for the northbound Orange
- -- Freeway. The section of Diamond Bar Boulevard between the eastbound Pomona Freeway
ramps and the northbound Orange Freeway ramps to the north, and Sunset Crossing Road
between Diamond Bar Boulevard and the southbound Orange Freeway ramps are designated
truck routes. To enable access to the heavy industrial areas of the City of Industry and the City
of Diamond Bar north of Lycoming Street, truck routes are designated in western Diamond Bar
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
33699.DBCucEXh2 B-40
NOT a�
TO SCALE
SUNSET\
CROSSIN q
z
Pjo
�v
cR�No SUMMIT
RIDGE
WOND PARK /
3AR Ay
N �
Jr� 1
h
i
LEGEND
.....•• SKYLINE EXTENSION (Shabansn) TRAIL
®®®® SUMMIT RIDGE PARK CONNECTOR TRAIL
Figure 2 —7
DIAMOND BAR PROPOSED EQUESTRIAN TRAIL.
along Colima Road between Lemon Avenue and Brea Canyon Road, along both Brea Canyon
Road and Lemon Avenue north of Colima Road, and along Walnut Drive. Entrances into the
City notify drivers of a five -ton weight restriction for trucks within the City (except for
designated truck routes), in addition to parking restrictions which limit commercial vehicles over
five tons to 30 minutes. Figure 3-9 2_8 shows truck routes within the City of Diamond Bar.
..
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92
3369RDBCircELCU B-42
OKS Assoclates
Figure 2 -2 -
DIAMOND BAR- DESIGNATED TRUCK R0tJTP-Q
C. Future Traffic Conditions
The purpose of this section is to address the future circulation system requirements of the City
of Diamond Bar. To assess future travel circulation characteristics within the City, a travel
forecast model is being developed. In addition, traffic volume forecasts for 2010 within and
surrounding the City have been obtained from SCAG and Orange County Environmental
Management Agency as a way to further validate future travel demand and circulation system
requirements within and surrounding Diamond Bar.
1. FUTURE LAND USE WITHIN DIAMOND BAR
Projections of future land use and increases in development within the City of Diamond Bar
have been developed by the City's planning and economic consultants in coordination with City
staff and the City of Diamond Bar General Plan Advisory Committee. The estimates of future
land use serve as input for the travel forecast model and provide the basis for estimating future
traffic demand within the City. Table 3-1 provides a summary of existing quantities of land use
within the City and projected future land uses Land uses have been quantified by
:..........:... .
general categories of residential (single and multi -family), commercial, office, business park,
recreational, and public facilities.
Review of Table 3-1 shows that the levels of development which would-be permissible under
uses. These estimated additional development opportunities within the City will result in
corresponding increases in traffic. Table 3-2 summarizes the estimated trip generation of the
proposed General Plan levels of development within the City of Diamond Bar. Also shown in
average daily trips in 2010. This represents an increase of 33 percent.
2. PROJECTED TRANSPORTATION GROWTH IN THE REGIONA16
TRAFFIC;
Future growth and increases in development within the City of Diamond Bar will result in
corresponding increases in traffic within the City. In addition to increases in traffic attributable
to growth and development within the City of Diamond Bar itself, the City will be impacted by
future growth and development in surrounding communities and the region. Substantial growth
in the region will result in increased through traffic within the City of Diamond Bar.
Development within Diamond Bar would potentially impact all streets in the City, while through
traffic growth would primarily impact arterials and residential streets used as bypass routes.
1 Additional information added for completeness.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY .
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3 C-1
Table 3.1
Suntmary of Existing and Projected Land use Within the city of Diamond Bar
City:
Single -Family Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Commercial
Office
Business Parks
Parks/Recreation
Public Facilities
Sphere of Influence:
Single -Family Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Commercial
Office
Business Parks
Parks/Recreation
Public Facilities
Cirttof Chino Hills
Existing
1990
12,589 d.u.
5,075 d.u.
1,901,000 s.f.
2,293,000 s.f.
1,165,000 s.f.
464.2 ac.
211.7 -ac.
0
0
0
0
0
3,589.3 ac.
1.7 ac.
GPAC
Recommended
Future
14,893 d.u.
5,535 d.u.
2,911,000 s.f.
7,097,000 s.f.
1,180,000 s.f.
1,321.4 ac.
294.9 ac.
0
0
0
0
0
3,591 ac.
0
Chino Hills is located adjacent to and east of Diamond Bar in 00! -<.<.<
San Bernardino County. _ . ................
jft_Qbj Chino Hills is a planned community which, at buildout, will include approximately
70,000 residences, community and neighborhood commercial facilities, and other support
residential services. It will also include office and business park development. As of late 1990,
Chino Hills wasapproximately 25% to 30% developed, including approximately 20,000
residences.
City of Chino
The City of Chino is located northeast of Diamond Bar. Grand Avenue provides an arterial
link between the City of Diamond Bar and the City of Chino. Chino is transitioning from a
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3
C-2
Table 3-2
Comparison of Estimated Daily Tripmaldng
Productions
Attractions
Total
Existing Conditions
158,645
189,987
348,632
Future Conditions
179,747
285,360
465,107
Difference
21,102
95,373
116,475
Percent Increase
13%
50 %
33%
33699.Tab3-2
semirural, residential community to a more suburban intensity of development. This is
characterized by agricultural land uses located predominantly in the southwestern
City, being replaced by non portion of the
-residential, employment generating uses especially industrial and
warehousing. Based on its General Plan, the City of Chino projects an increase of
approximately 6,056 residential units, 4.1 million square feet of commercial uses, 3.2 million
square feet of office/business paik uses and 29.3 million square feet of industrial/warehousing.
City of Industry
Approximately 1,100 acres of undeveloped land lie adjacent to the City of Diamond Bar within
the City of Industry. The City of Industry is considering
this
land in industrial uses to take advantage of existing rail linesewithin ntial he area eatas welies tolas location
proximate to regional highway facilities (Route 60 and Route 57). It is anticipated that access
to/from and circulation within the area would be provided via the extensions of Grand Avenue
and a future extension of Sunset Crossing Road.
City of Pomona
The City of Pomona abuts Diamond Bar on the north. With an estimated population of
121,000 in an approximately 23 square mile area, much of Pomona is currently developed.
However, some development opportunities do exist adjacent to Diamond Bar along Route 60.
The most notable of these is buildout of single-family residential within Phillips Ranch and the
planned development of a regional shopping center at the convergence of Route 60 and
Route 71.
and incorporated into the City's travel demand model
3. FUTURE ROADWAY SYSTEM WITHIN DIAMOND BARS
Los Angeles County Highway Plan
The roadway network depicted in the Los Angeles County Highway Plan (November 1980) was
compared to 2010 traffic volumes for each land use scenario to evaluate future traffic conditions
Additional information added for completeness.
3 Additional information added for completeness.
CITY OF D I A M O N D BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699 DBCircE1 Ch3
C-4
in the City of Diamond Bar. The planned future network for the City corresponds to existing
roadway classifications, thus, only minor modifications to the existing network are assumed.
Future extensions of both Grand Avenue and Sunset Crossing Road are shown as part of the
future regional network. Grand Avenue is displayed as a major arterial extending from its
present terminus at Route 57/60 northwesterly into the City of Industry to the existing. segment
north of Valley Boulevard. This roadway is currently under construction with completion
expected in late 1991 or early 1992. Sunset Crossing Road is shown as a secondary arterial
extending from its present terminus through the City of Industry to Brea Canyon Road in the
vicinity of Washington Street. Table 3-3 describes roadways within the City of Diamond Bar
Table 3-3
City of Diamond Bar Roadway Classification
Roadway
Existing
Proposed
Width
Dedication
Improvement
Roadway
Classification*
Classification
(ft.)
Stds. (ft.)
Stds. (ft.)
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Major
Secondary
lob
100
80
Colima Rd.
Major
100
100
100
Golden Springs Dr.
Secondary
80
80
80
Grand Ave.
Major
100
100
100
Pathfinder Rd.
(e% Brea Canyon
%
Rd. -west leg)
Major
100
100
100
Pathfinder Rd.
(w/o Brea Canyon
Rd. -west leg)
Secondary
80
80
80
Brea Canyon Rd.
(s/o Colima Rd.)
Secondary
80
80
80
Brea Canyon Rd.
(n/o Colima Rd.)
Major
100
100
100
Lemon Ave.
Major
Secondary
100
100
100
(s. of Colima)
Sunset Crossing Rd./
Washington/Beaverhead
Secondary
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Brea Canyon
Cut -Off Rd.
Ltd Secondary
64-80
64-80
64-80
Chino Hills Pkwy.
(referred to as
Dudley St.)
Major
100
100
100
*Los Angeles County Highway Plan (November 1980)
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3 C-5
Current and future buildout of the roadway network represented on the Los Angeles County
Highway Plan for arterials within the City of Diamond Bar corresponds to the most recent
master plans of the surrounding communities including the cities of Industry and Pomona's
circulation elements, and the Chino Hills Specific Plan.
4. YEAR 2010 TRAFFIC VOLUME FORECASTS
as Part of this studv.4
R
Iorovide two lanes in each direction
a.
the City of Diamond Bar.4
5. ROADWAY CAPACITY ANALYSIS
- ---------•••-• •�� ..vuwuuns wnn>in the Li of Diamond Bar
FiaW year 2010 traffic volume projections obtained from the forecast model afe have been
compared to
traffic volume estimated roadway capacity, For mp----a_Pu ses
ro'co
ections have been rovided for existin conditions and ro sed General
Plan Land Use conditions.
of this analysis.
S: Table 3-4 summarizes the results
4 Additional information added for completeness.
5 Removed for editing and continuity.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOB ILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
-DKS Associates
NOTE: Traffic Volumes shown in Thousands
Figure 3-1
YEAR 2010 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUME
Table 3-4
City of Diamond Bar Freeways Arterials
Existing a� Estimated Future Average Daily Traffic (Without Tonner
Colima Road:
w/o Calbourne Drive
30,000
17,700
0.59
GPAC
0.90
w/o Lemon Avenue
30,000-
19,800
Recommended
Location
Existing
Existing
Future
19,900
Capacity (a)
Volume
V/C
Volume
V/C
Diamond Bar Boulevard:
0.74
33,600
1.12
w/o Brea Canyon Road
30000
e/o Brea Canyon Road
30,000
17,400
0.58
48,000
1.60
s/o Fountain Springs Road
30,000
20,700
0.69
48,600
1.62
s/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
27,000
0.90
52,300
1.74
n/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
28,200
0.94
54,200
1.81
s/o Grand Avenue
30,000
31,000
1.03
60,000
2.00
n/o Grand Avenue
30,000
24,400
0.81
36,500
1.22
n/o Steep Canyon Road
30,000
25,000
0.83
38,000
1.27
s/o Golden Springs Drive
30000
29,300
0.98
44,000
1.47
n/o Golden Springs Drive
30000
32,800
1.09
49,900
1.66
s/o Sunset Crossing Road
30,000
31,300
1.04
47,000
1.57
n/o Highland Valley Road
30,000
18,600
0.62
28,300
0.94
s/o Temple Avenue
30,000
16,700
0.56
25,800
0.86
Colima Road:
w/o Calbourne Drive
30,000
17,700
0.59
26,900
0.90
w/o Lemon Avenue
30,000-
19,800
0.66
30,000
1.00
e/o Lemon Avenue
30,000
19,900
0.66
30,300
1.01
w/o Pomona Freeway
30,000
22,100
0.74
33,600
1.12
w/o Brea Canyon Road
30000
29,200
0.97
44,400
1.48
Golden Springs Road:
e/o Brea Canyon Road
30,000
19,300
0.64
29,300
0.98
w/o Copley Drive
30000
18,000
0.60
27,400
0.91
w/o Grand Avenue
30,000
19,700
0.66
29,300
0.98
e/o Grand Avenue
30,000
20,700
0.69
31,400
1.05
w/o Prospectors Road
20,000
16,500
0.83
25,100
1.26
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
20,000
16,600
0.83
25,200
1.26
e/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
20,000
16,400
0.82
24,900
1.25
s/o Temple Avenue
20,000
10,600
0.53
16,100
0.81
Grand Avenue:
w/o Golden Springs Drive
30,000
27,400
0.91
49,100
1.64
e/o Golden Springs Drive
30,000
24,700
0.82
42,000
1.40
e/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
19,700
0.66
55,000
1.83
Pathfinder Road:
w/o Peaceful Hills Road
30,000
4,300
0.14
6,600
0.22
w/o Orange Freeway (SB)
25,000
14,600
0.58
22,200
0.89
e/o Orange Freeway (NB)
30,000
20,200
0.67
30,700
1.02
w/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
13,000
0.43
19,800
0.66
33699.Table3-4
Table 3-4
City of Diamond Bar Freeways Arterials
Existing and Estimated Future Average Daily Traffic (Without Tonner Canyon Road)
Location
Existing
Capacity (a)
Existing
Volume V/C
GPAC
Recommended
Future
Volume V/C
Brea Canyon Road:
s/o Silver Bullet Drive
30,000
8,000
0.27
12,200
0.41
n/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
30,000
4,400
0.15
6,700
0.22
s/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
7,600
0.25
11,600
0.39
n/o Pathfinder Road
30,000
10,100
0.34
15,400
0.51
s/o Colima Road
30,000
15,500
0:52
23,600
0.79
n/o Colima Road
30,000
28,300
0.94
42,200
1.41
n/o Pomona Freeway
30,000
32,700
1.09
48,700
1.62
n/o Washington Street.
30,000
20,500
0.68
30,600
1.02
Brea Canyon Cut -Off Road:
s/o Pathfinder Road
10,000
10,500
1.05
16,000
1.60
Lemon Avenue:
n/o Colima Road
30,Q00
12,100
0.40
18,400
0.61
e
Walnut Drive:
w/o Lemon Avenue
20,000
5,200
0.26
7,900
0.40
Chino Hills Parkway:
n/o Chino Avenue
30,000
8,100
0.27
35,000
1.17
Chino Avenue:
e/o Chino Hills Parkway
10,000
4,500
0.45
17,200
1.72
Pomona Freeway (SR -60):
w/o Brea Canyon Road
173,000
255,000
w/o Grand Avenue
233,000
361,000
e/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
147,000
201,000
w/o Philips Ranch Road
147,000
179,000
Orange Freeway (SR -57):
n/o Diamond Bar Boulevard
182,000
308,000
n/o Pathfinder Road
184,000
280,000
n/o Sunset Crossing Road
135,000
187,000
33699.Table314
Review of Table 34 shows that man of the roadwa facilities within Diamond Bar are
ro ected to ca volumes of traffic at or in excess of recn.nmended Leve' of Service D daily
ca aci 6
Diamond Bar Boulevard - Avera a . . 11traffic volumes aloe Diamond Bar Boulevard
immediatelv south of Grand Avenue are roeeted to 1>sce 60 000 vehicles r da or double the
LOS C terra n ca aci of tour -lane roadwa - South of Grand Avenue to Brea Can on
Road, forecast _daily volume sine n1.. -__A u.,..
protected to be within the carrying capacity of a four lane roadwa
Colima Road Year 2010 traffic volumes along Colima Road west of Brea Canon Road are
prolected to exceed LOS C carrving capacity of this four -lane roadway From east of Lemon
Avenue to the City of Diamond Bar boundary Colima Road is fn
orecast to cagy traffic at or
slightly below the recommended carrnn capac>tty for four lane roadwa® 6
Golden S rips Road - Golden S rips Road is forecast to ca traftic volumes within level
of service C cdrrving capacipr for a four -lane divided roadwa . The rtion of Golden -§2n p s
Road east of Grand Avenue is not a divided roadwa and therefo forecast traffic volumes
alon>� this segment would represent level of service E conditions 6
Grand Avenue - Year 2010 traffic volume forecasts alon the entire len th of Grand Avenue
within the City of Diamond Bar are estimated to be in excess of the capacity of a four lane
divided roadway. As resentl occurs a - neficant amount of this traffic is estimated to be
through traffic with neither origin dbr destination within the Citv 6
Brea Can on Road - The section of Brea CanIIon Road from Colima Road to Washin on
Street is ro'ected to ca-rry traffic volumes uirin the ca aci of a six -lane divided
arterial.6
Routes 57 and 60 - Both the Pomona Freewa SR -60I and the Oran a Freewa SR•57 are
forecast to carry traffic volumes A nificant!u in excess of their ca acit . This will result in
continued coneyestion alon these facilities with s illover onto City streets as motorists seek
less congested alternatives..
6. FUTURE CIRCULATION SYSTEM
With growth and increased levels of development anticipated to occur within both the City of
Diamond Bar and the surrounding region, most notably the Chino/Chino Hills area, several
roadways are projected to carry traffic in excess of estimated carrying capacity. In addition,
6 Additional information added for completeness.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
4
33699.DBCircELCh3
C-10
other strategies should be adopted to accommodate the City's existing and projected circulation
system needs. In some instances, "accommodating" circulation system needs may involve
balancing the demand for increased roadway capacity with the vision of the City's community
image, quality of life and other less easily quantifiable elements.
The development of Tonner Canyon as an alternative travel corridor around the City of
Diamond Bar. With significant development planned for the Chino Hills area, both Diamond
Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue are expected to carry even larger through traffic volumes
from SR -57 into San Bernardino County. Alternative routes to the south would help relieve
future congestion along these and other arterials within the City of Diamond Bar.
A feasibility study was recently completed for the counties of Orange and San Bernardino by
PBQ&D (January 1991) regarding possible extensions of Soquel Canyon Road and/or Tonner
Canyon Road with various alignments for each proposed arterial considered. The Soquel
Canyon Road extension is proposed to relieve congestion along Carbon Canyon Road (SR -142)
and the Riverside Freeway (SR -91), both east -west routes connecting sections of Orange and
San Bernardino counties. The Soquel Canyon Road extension is included in the North Orange
County Master Plan of Arterial Highways as a primary arterial, and has been identified in the
Chino Hills Specific Plan as a critical length. This roadway would result in negligible reductions
to future traffic volumes within Diamond Bar.
Future traffic volumes for selected arterials in Diamond Bar were studied for both a no build
scenario with neither of these roadways, and with a buildout alternative scenario consisting of
both roadways. For the alternative buildout scenario considered, both Tonner Canyon Road and
Soquel Canyon Road are assumed to be six -lane roadways, with improved direct ramp
connections between the existing alignment of Tonner Canyon Road and SR -57. This
alternative would. also provide for construction of a new roadway connecting Soquel Canyon
Road to Tonner Canyon Road.
In the absence of these projected roadways, both Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue
would experience significantly higher traffic volumes which greatly exceed their planned capacity.
Both roadways are represented on the Los Angeles Highway Plan with existing roadway
classifications. Diamond Bar Boulevard ADT volumes south of Grand Avenue are projected
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3 C-11
to be as high as 60,000, with average traffic volumes north of Grand Avenue of approximately
32,000 vehicles per day. ADT volumes along Grand Avenue would be expected to approach
66,000. With neither an alternative route into San Bernardino County nor the upgrading of the
roadways from existing classifications or lane numbers, both arterials would experience volumes
double their current capacities of 30,000 vehicles per day. The availability of these future
alternative routes would result in future ADT volumes along Diamond Bar Boulevard between
20,000 and 24,000 vehicles, both well below level of service (LOS) C capacity; however, volumes
along Grand Avenue of between 35,000 and 39,000 vehicles per day would still be as high as
30% over capacity. Table 3-5 compares future volumes and volume -to -capacity ratios for
segments of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue for both alternatives.
Both of these scenarios clearly indicate that both the existing circulation system and proposed
Los Angeles County Highway Plan does not contain sufficient roadway capacities to serve
anticipated future traffic volumes. Although the addition of an alternative route to the south
'► significantly decrease through trip movements. within Diamond Bar resulting in an
acceptable level of service for Diamond Bar Boulevard, circulation along Grand Avenue will
require mitigation to address the effects of future traffic growth.
Improve . Grand Avenue .to optimize through traffic carrying capacity.
tKA'i�'Yil�ifn• _. ...., iva.ww::•.4..t'm�:.:•;:��;:•:•:�:•:<:::;;.;:>:•:•:;;.:••r.:.•;.:.:<:..,::,,..::::.,,..................... ::..�:;::....:...a.......... «:,
+ With the completion of the extension of Grand Avenue in the City of Industry,
Grand Avenue provide an even m0V significant role as a regional arterial aeon
Measures to enhance Grand Avenue within Diamond Bar would include:
i�..�,,,,,,�..�„R
widefli"g to
- Optimize signal coordination
- Reconstruction to improve interchange at Route 57/60
- Provide bus turnouts out of travel lanes
--------------
7 ._, at direction of GPAC.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3
C-12
Table 3-5
Future Average Daily Traffic and Volume -to -Capacity Ratios
for Selected Arterials With and Without Soquel Canyon Road/Tonner Canyon Road
Extension
Without With Soquel and Tonner
Soquel and Tonner Buildout Alternative
Daily V/C Daily V/C
Roadway Capacity Volume Ratio Volume Ratio
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Brea Canyon Rd./Pathfinder Rd.
30,000
48,000
1.60
21,000
0.70
Pathfinder Rd./Grand- Ave.
30,000
60,000
2.00
20,000
0.67
Grand Ave./Golden Springs Dr.
30,000
34,000'
1.13
24,000
0.80
Grand Ave.
Golden Springs Dr./Diamond Bar Blvd.
30,000
42,000
1.40
39,000
1.30
Diamond Bar .Blvd./San Bernardino Co.
30,000
66,000
2.20
35,000
1.17
Implications: 61
Increased capacity would facilitate commuter access (local residents as well as commuters
traveling through Diamond Bar to/from adjacent jurisdictions) to the freeway system and to
surrounding communities.
Limiting access to Grand Avenue will increase traffic carrying capacity but will also limit
opportunities for drivers to divert from Grand Avenue and intrude onto the local street system
or into neighborhoods.
This concept would significantly impact land use adjacent to Grand Avenue by exposure to
increased volumes of traffic, potentially reduced access, and in some instance, reduced land area
if additional right-of-way is required to implement Grand Avenue improvements.
Table 3-5 presented previously compares future volumes and volume -to -capacity ratios for
portions of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard with increased capacity along Grand
Avenue resulting from an increase to six lanes. Future capacities are shown for both future
conditions with and without the Soquel Canyon Road/Tonner Canyon Road extensions.
Emphasize Diamond Bar Boulevard as a local arterial. With the impr-e-VeFfleat ef Gr -and
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBUrtE1Ch3 C-13
Since Diamond Bar Boulevard presently provides an
attractive alternative to the freeway during congested peak hours for commuters, in addition to
improving Grand Avenue, it would be necessary, to implement measures to reduce the
attractiveness of Diamond Bar Boulevard as a speedy through route during peak commute hours.
Measures would include:
- Signal coordination to increase through travel time along Diamond Bar Boulevard
- Peak hour turn prohibitions to eliminate the dominant through traffic movements
- Special street treatments (e.g., landmarks, entry features, landscaping, pavement
treatment, etc.) that convey the special function of Diamond Bar Boulevard as a
local street
- Where appropriate, emphasize access to adjacent land uses (i.e., Diamond Bar as
a locally serving commercial corridor)
Implications:
Through imposition of measures which would increase the travel time along significant lengths
of Diamond Bar Boulevard and limit access to connector routes via turn prohibitions, through
traffic along Diamond Bar Boulevard would reduce.
The increased travel time and the inconvenience of controlled routing would affect Diamond
Bar residents as well as non-residents®travelling through the City.
The redefinition of the function of Diamond Bar Boulevard would affect adjacent land use
potential, which should be reflect in the City's land use plan.
The widening of the Pathfinder Road bridge over Route 57 is a committed improvement within
the City. On its own, the widening of the bridge would provide additional needed capacity to
accommodate existing peak hour travel demand and improve freeway access. Since a significant
percentage of this demand is presently comprised of through traffic, this improvement would
provide benefit to non-resident commuters as well as residents and may further contribute to
the problem to traffic diversion through the City. However, when considered in combination
with modifications to Grand Avenue and to Diamond Bar Boulevard,
the Pathfinder bridge
widening would significantly improve freeway access for existing and future residents in the
southern portion of the City. At the same time, if Grand Avenue cannot be accessed from
Diamond Bar Boulevard, the benefit of the Pathfinder improvement to through traffic is
significantly reduced.
8 Removed at direction of GPAC.
it
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircE1Ch3
C-14
Cul-de-sacing of Sunset Crossing Road at the City's western limits and _maintaining
Washington Street cul-de-sac9: Sunset Crossing is presently a four -lane roadway providing
access to/from a residential area of northwest Diamond Bar. Sunset Crossing west of Route 57
has an interchange with southbound Route 57, extends westerly and terminates east of the City
limits adjacent to a park and Little League field.
The County of Los Angeles Readwey- aster -plan Highway Plan10 assumes Sunset Crossing is
to be extended southwesterly, through the City of Industry to a connection with Washington
Street or in the vicinity. The area through which Sunset Crossing is to extend is presently
substantially undeveloped. However, the City of Industry is considering development of the area
with industrial uses to make maximum advantage of its proximity to freight rail lines.
The extension of Sunset Crossing and the proposed development of industrial uses adjacent to
this arterial would significantly increase the volume of traffic along Sunset Crossing and
introduce a significant number of trucks into this residential area.
An evaluation of the potential impacts of the development of industrial uses adjacent to the City
of Diamond Bar and the extension of Sunset Crossing to serve these uses is summarized below:
. The area within the City of Industry proposed for industrial development encompasses
approximately 1,075 acres.
. Assuming .that this area is developed in an approximately equal mix of heavy industrial
uses and light industrial uses, this area is estimated to generate_ approximately 37,000
daily trips with approximately 4,580 trips during the morning peak hour and
approximately 4,610 trips duting the evening peak hour.
The extension of Grand Avenue would provide the backbone of the circulation system
within the area.
. With the completion of Grand Avenue, it would be assumed that some traffic presently
travelling along Brea Canyon Road would divert to Grand Avenue.
. For analysis purposes, it has been assumed approximately 20 to 25 percent of traffic
on Brea Canyon Road north of Route 60 would divert to Grand Avenue when it is
completed. Additionally, some traffic would be attracted to Grand Avenue as a
continuous regional arterial. Therefore, it has been assumed that upon completion,
Grand Avenue would carry an approximated 10,200 daily trips as "background" traffic.
. The trip distribution characteristics of trips travelling to/from the proposed industrial
area were estimated as follows:
9 Added at direction of GPAC.
10 Correction
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3 C-15
• 15% to/from the north via Grand Avenue
® 10% to/from the east via Grand Avenue
• 35% to/from the north/east via Route 57
• 25% to/from the west via Route 60
• 15% to/from the south via Route 57
• With the buildout of the industrial area and the extensions of Grand Avenue and
Sunset Crossings the following intersections are projected to operate at LOS E or
worse during one or both peak hours:
- Brea Canyon Road at Washington Street
- Brea Canyon Road at WB Route 60 Ramps
- Brea Canyon Road at Colima Road
- Grand Avenue at NB Route 60 Ramps
- Grand Avenue at SB Route 60 Ramps
- Grand Avenue at Golden Springs Road
- Sunset Crossing at SB Route 57 Ramps
• Traffic volumes along Sunset Crossing Road which presently serves only to access a
single-family residential neighborhood would increase to approximately 21,000 vehicles
per day with a significant percentage of truck traffic.
Summary of Future Conditions
• Based on observed and projected trends, the circulation system within the City of
Diamond Bar will experience significant increases in traffic, beyond the capacity of
many of its arterials.
Some of the additional traffic will be the result of anticipated development within
Diamond Bar. A significant portion of the traffic will be the result of development
in the immediately surrounding area.
• Without modifications of selected arterials and implementation of transportation
management strategies to create an appropriate hierarchy of arterials, increased traffic
will continue to spill over onto local streets and potentially impact residential
neighborhoods within Diamond Bar.
• Three options for managing future traffic demand are to:
- increase roadway capacity for streets intended to carry regional through traffic
- implement transportation demand management strategies to manage and balance
demand and capacity
- work to control development growth
- discourage local street intrusion
- encourage corollary regional improvements
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33699.DBCircELCh3 C-16
Dt. Goals, Objectives and Strategies
Circulation goals, objectives and strategies have been assembled for the City of Diamond Bar
to guide policy makers and City staff in the implementation of the Circulation Element. Goals
describe the overall direction for circulation planning within the City, while objectives and
implementation strategies were defined in response to each of those goals.
Objectives are statements of accomplishments that the City will strive to achieve as part of the
circulation planning process, while implementation strategies are actions used to actually achieve
the objectives. The goals and objectives are presented in priority rank beginning with the most
important, based on direction provided by the City.
GOAL 1 Enhance the Environment of the City's Street Network by Discouraging the
Intrusion of Regionally Oriented Commuter Traffic Through the City and Into
Residential Neighborhoods Along With Corollary Programs to Reinforce the
Regional Transportation and Circulation System to Adequately Accommodate
Regional Needs.
Objective 1.1 Assume ongoing responsibility and take an active role in all regional and local
transportation related planning and decisionmaking with the specific goal of
maintaining a clear distinction between regional and local objectives.
Strategies:
1.1.2
Prior to permitting connection of roadways from adjacent
jurisdictions into the City of Diamond Bar, ensure that regional
benefits are not achieved at the expense of Diamond Bar
1 Reorganized to conform more closely to other elements of General Plan,
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697.DBCircEWh4 D-1
•lAA7:!L
! _a!1! f:! `.3.!:...1 �aa?5.�:?�: ?.i:t' f3t_E:.�� ' ,. SYlE:! � ,.3s�•
1.1.3 Solicit federal and state funds to improve area freeways,
including grade separating SR -57 and 60, as well as completing
an interchange system between the freeways that does not
require the use of local streets.
Objective 1.2 Balance the need for free traffic flow on City arterials with economic realities,
environmental and aesthetic considerations such that streets are designed to
handle normal traffic flow without encouraging through traffic, with tolerance
to allow for potet1tial short-term delays at peak hours
Strategies:
1.2.1 Prepare programs of the use of through traffic control measures,
to restore many of the existing streets in Diamond Bar for local
use, including peak hour turn prohibition, signal coordination
and special treatments on City's major arterials (Diamond Bar
Boulevard and Grand Avenue/Golden Springs) to discourage
through traffic during peak travel hours within the City.
1.2.2 Maintain flexibility in the cross sections and configuration of
streets within topographically rugged or environmentally sensitive
areas. Where appropriate, require minimum improvements
including street trees and asphaltic berm curbing as approved
by the City Engineer. Within topographically rugged and rural
areas maintain flexibility in street light requirements, so as to
maintain the rural quality, as perceived by residents of these
areas and by passers-by to whom these areas are visible at night,
particularly from freeways and arterials, limiting street light
locations to those required for safety for such areas including
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697 DBCircELCh4
D-2
Tres Hermanos and Sandstone Canyon area and Sycamore
Canyon.
Objective 1.3 Maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods by discouraging through
traffic within residential areas
Strategies:
13.1 Prevent the creation of new major roadway connections which
would adversely impact the residential character of existing
residential neighborhoods. Examples are: Sunset Crossing,
ycoming and Washington, Tres Hermans, Upper Sycamore
Canyon, a d B iz a area. fxnixd 4-ia92)
13.2 Implement neighborhood traffic control programs to reduce and
divert through traffic from residential neighborhoods. A
neighborhood traffic control program would provide a mechanism
for review of specific neighborhood traffic problems with
programs to be developed and implemented in coordination with
organized neighborhood groups. Neighborhood area studies
would respond to specific through traffic, speed or accident
problems. Traffic control devices such as signs, signals and
pavement markings, as well as traffic management or restraint
devices such as medians and traffic diverters would be studied
as potential solutions on a case-by-case basis. Montefino
Avenue, for example, is frequently used by traffic between
eastbound Grand Avenue and southbound Diamond Bar
Boulevard to avoid congestion at Grand Avenue and Diamond
Bar Boulevard.
1.3.3. To the extent possible, traffic control measures should be
integrated with amenities such as landscaping or tot lots to serve
the immediate neighborhoods, so that the restored street will not
only eliminate through traffic, but enhance residential quality as
well.
1.3.4 Within new residential developments such as Tres Hermanos and
Upper Sycamore Canyon area, encourage organization of
neighborhoods into smaller units.
13.5 Locate new developments and their access points in such a way
that traffic is not encouraged to utilize local residential streets
for access to the development and its parking for which local
roads were not intended. Areas of concern are Tres Hermanos
area, Upper Sycamore Canyon area and Northern Sandstone
Canyon area.
CITY O F D IAMOND BAR P LAN FOR PH YSICAL MOB ILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697.D8CircE1Ch4 D-3
GOAL 2 Provide a Balanced Transportation System for the Safe and Efficient Movement
of People, Goods and Services Throughout the City in a Manner Which Will
Protect and Maintain the Residential Quality of Life Which is Diamond Bar.
Objective 2.1 Maximize the use of alternative transportation modes and multi passenger
vehicles for transportation within and through the City, and decrease reliance
on single passenger automobiles
Strategies:
2.1.1 Maximize the use and availability of public transit service within
the City (particularly on Diamond Bar Boulevard, Colima Road,
Golden Springs Drive and Grand Avenue).
2.1.2 Investigate the feasibility of establishing a local transit system
based on the use of small, electric -powered buses in conjunction
with potential mixed-use urban village development in the
existing Diamond Bar golf course, at such time.
2.1.3 Support privately funded local transit systems for commuter
residents. Maintain a local transit system for seniors and youths
in conjunction with the potential future mixed-use urban village
development and main commercial developments at the major
intersections of Diamond Bar Boulevard/Grand Avenue,
Diamond Bar Boulevard/Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar
Boulevard/Sunset Crossing Road, Colima Road/Brea Canyon
Road, and Grand Avenue/Golden Springs Drive.
2.1.4 Pursue a cooperative effort with Caltrans and regional transit
providers in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties
to develop a major bus transportation facility near or in the City
of Diamond Bar adjacent to the 57 Freeway and Grand Avenue.
2.1.5 Encourage participation in carpool matching services by residents
and City businesses.
2.1.6 Coordinate to the extent possible with neighboring cities in 'the
development of a Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
plan.
2.1.7 Investigate the potential of using vacant land areas such as Tres
Hermans properties at the City's boundaries and near the 57
Freeway and Grand Avenue as park-and-ride sites.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697 DBCircELCh4 D-4
2.1.8 Work with Caltrans and the City of Pomona to expand existing
park-and-ride facilities at the interchange of SR -57 and SR -60
and at Lanterman State Hospital, just inside the City of Pomona
along Highland Valley Road.
2.1.9 Expand and maintain the system of bicycle routes connecting
residential areas to major community attractions such as the
City's junior and senior high school's, major shopping center
locations near arterial intersections, County Park and Sycamore
Canyon Park, and the Little League field and park near Sunset
Crossing Road. Pursue a cooperative effort with San Bernardino
County, unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County and the
cities of Pomona and Industry to develop and interconnect the
Diamond Bar system of bicycle routes with a regional system.
2.1.10 Pursue a cooperative program with involved agencies in Los
Angeles and Orange Counties and the City of Brea to provide
access for Diamond Bar residents to a regional light rail system
especially within the Route 57 corridor, and to provide local bus
services to the access location. This could be accomplished by
a connection to I-10 or Route 60 to the north.
2.1.11 Pursue a program to widen State Routes 57 and 60 and I-10,
providing carpool lanes connecting to employment areas in Los
Angeles and Orange counties.
2.1.12 Develop and promote interconnected equestrian trails similar to
that in the City of Walnut.
GOAL 3 Develop and Construct Transportation Improvements to Provide the Capacity and
Performance Necessary to Meet the Service Needs of the Public While Preserving
Open Space and the Special Environmental Quality of the City.
Objective 3.1 Establish a functional classification system for arterial highways with
corresponding level of service operating guidelines for arterials and arterial
intersections.
Strategies:
3.1.1 Through control of land use, access and a program to discourage
through traffic, maintain level of service (LOS) D or better
during peak hours at signalized intersections to the extent
possible.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697.DBCircELCh4 D-5
3.1.2 Improve intersections in the City which currently provide peak
hour traffic service levels worse than "D" where feasible within
existing right-of-way and where no significant environmental
impact would result to the City of Diamond Bar. For those
streets intended for restoration to local use, improvements
should. be intended to discourage through traffic. For arterials
intended to facilitate movement of traffic, traffic improvements
should focus on maximizing operational efficiency and roadway
carrying capacity.
3.13 Improve arterial mid -block segments to provide average daily
service levels of "C" or better to prevent use of local and
collector streets as alternate routes for commuter and other non -
local traffic in the City.
3.1.4 Develop a repaving program for all public roadways throughout
the City establishing a program and a schedule to maintain a
level of quality which will assure safe and efficient traffic flow.
3.1.5 Develop a program to expand and maintain pedestrian access
routes throughout the City including sidewalks, walk streets, and
pedestrian bridges.
Objective 3.2 Improve the safety and more efficient utilization of the capacities of existing
transportation facilities fust through low-cost improvements such as
signalization, channelization and turning lanes, considering more costly
solutions when other alternatives have been exhausted
3.2.1 Improve sight distance and correct operating problems at other
intersections which do not experience capacity problems but are
shown to experience. operational problems.
3.2.2 Prohibit on -street parking and loading/unloading of school
children in selected locations where bus turnouts would not be
practical or effective to better maintain flow of traffic and reduce
potential hazards. Examples are Brea Canyon Road and
Pathfinder Road near the City's High School and Diamond Bar
Boulevard and Golden Springs Drive near the City's Junior High
School.
3.23 Consider the addition of lanes for through traffic via arterial
widening only when other measures such as parking prohibition,
signal coordination and improved transit service have either been
implemented or are not feasible.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697 DBCircEL Chd D-6
Objective 3.3 Explore all available opportunities and mechanisms for funding transportation
improvements including public and private sources.
3.3.1 All new development shall be required to provide reasonable
mitigation measures or pay traffic impact fees for traffic impacts
identified by the City, and/or traffic impact study reports.
3.3.2 Explore the use of toll roads for local arterials at peak hours
such as Grand Avenue by marketing incentives such as
congestion pricing to raise revenue for road improvements and
alternative transportation systems.
GOAL 4 Provide Adequate Supply of Parking Both On -Street and Off -Street to Meet the
Needs for Both Residents and Commercial Businesses.
Strategies:
4.1 Encourage the provision of preferential parking for high
occupancy vehicles wherever possible.
4.2 Require all new developments to accommodate project generated
parking consistent with encouraging alternate transportation
demapd management programs.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR PLAN FOR PHYSICAL MOBILITY
Revised 3-19-92 and 4-10-92
33697.D80rcELCh4 D-7
CITY OF DIAMOND
MINUTES OF THE PLANNING
APRIL 20,1992
BAR DRAFT
COMMISSION -
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. at the
PUBLIC HEARING:
South Coast Air Quality Management District , 21865
E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
PLEDGE OF
The audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by
ALLEGIANCE:
Liz Myers.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners: Grothe, Li, Meyer, Vice Chairman
MacBride, and Chairman Flamenbaum.
Also present were Community Development Director
James DeStefano, Associate Planner Robert Searcy,
Lloyd Zola, of the Planning Network, and Contract
Secretary Liz Myers.
MATTERS FROM
Ken Anderson, residing at 2628 Rising Star Dr.,
THE AUDIENCE:
stated his concern of the traffic situation
resulting from the development within the Country
Hills Towne Center, and the existing development in
the immediate area. He'presented pictures to the
Commission of a traffic accident that occurred
recently in the area. He also stated that the
signs, placed by the Wolff Company, are not to
code.
CONTINUED
CD/DeStefano reported that the Plan for Resource
PUBLIC HEARING:
Management incorporates the open space element and
the conservation element of the General Plan. The
Draft General
Plan for Resource Management has been developed to
Plan
create and retain an open space system which will
conserve our natural resources, preserve our scenic
beauty, promote a healthy community atmosphere,
provide open space for outdoor passive/active
recreation, and protect the public safety. The
document was first reviewed and drafted by GPAC in
the middle of 1991, and returned to GPAC for
further review the fall of 1991. The Plan for
Resource Management was reviewed and approved by
the Parks and Recreation Commission in the latter
part of January and the first part of February of
1992. The GPAC proposed and approved the final
changes, contained in the document, on April 9,
1992.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
The Commission concurred to review the document
page by page.
A. Introduction
VC/MacBride suggested that bullet three, page 2, of
the Introduction, omit the first word "To".
April 20, 1992 Page 2
B. Existing Conditions
1. Open Space and Visual Resources
C/Meyer suggested inserting the word "opportunity'
to the third line from the bottom so that it reads
H. ..open space opportunities and visual resources".
VC/MacBride stated that the last line of Open Space
and Visual Resources is awkward and needs to be
reworded. He suggested that it be phrased to read,
"The natural slopes and ridges enrich and identify
our City.". The Commission concurred.
2. Biological Resources
VC/MacBride suggested that the syntax in bullet
one, page 3, last sentence, be corrected to read
If ..raccoon, coyote and, occasionally, mule deer.";
and that the word "of" be deleted from the last
sentence of bullet four.
Chair/Grothe suggested that the word "plants" be
deleted from the last sentence of bullet three.
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the last paragraph
be worded more strongly.
Lloyd Zola suggested the following wording, "There
is a potential for sensitive plants.... Undisturbed
areas such as Sandstone Canyon are in the historic
range of sensitive plants such as .... Rare or
endangered animal species are not generally found
within the City, although sandy soils, especially
in the previously identified natural areas...".
The Commission concurred.
3. Parks and Recreation
CD/DeStefano explained that the Parks and
Recreation Commission, concerned with the potential
misunderstanding of a previously prepared matrix
regarding usable and unusable, developed and
undeveloped, City parkland, suggested the changes
in the statement, on the top of page four, that
increased the minimum requirement for parklands
base upon 1,000 residents. If adopted, it will
lead to specific changes to our Quimby fee
structure, as well as the requirements for cash
contribution, or acreage, for future park
development.
VC/MacBride suggested that the end of the last
sentence, second paragraph, as indicated on page
four, be amended to read, "...the need of
April 20, 1992
Page 3
residents", In regards to the following sentence,
he questioned the use of the phrase 11470.8 acres of
recreational facilities".
Lloyd Zola suggested the wording "...470.8 acres of
recreational land, including 59.4 acres of
developed park land".
CD/DeStefano explained that the Parks and
Recreation Commission tried to identify that
although there is 470 acres of land, there is
actually substantially less acres per 1,000
residents because of the 133 acres of "The
Country's" private parkland, and the 75 additional
acres of undeveloped parkland.
C/Meyer suggested that the section identify and
clarify the parkland available, and the parkland
privately held. The actual numbers should be
summarized, as indicated in table II.N.2, within
the Master Environmental -Assessment.
The Commission concurred that the numbers should
justify that there is a severe shortage of
parkland.
VC/MacBride suggested that the statement, referring
to quasi -public parkland, be amended to "....may
require user fees;...".
Upon C/Meyer's suggestion, the Commission concurred
that the second paragraph from the bottom of page
four should be changed to indicate the "distance",
that the City is located within regional recreation
areas, rather than the "time".
4. Water Resources
C/Li requested that the first sentence, second
paragraph, be changed to indicate, "Three Valleys
Municipal Water District". He also requested that
a statement be added about the existing reclaimed
water situation.
5. Energy Resources
Chair/ Flamenbaum. suggested that the Gas Company and
Southern California Edison be changed to refer to
public utilities, and the word "its" be changed to
"their".
VC/MacBride suggested that the seventh line be
changed to read, "The strategies provided in this
section.. -. 11.
April 20, 1992 Page 4
6. Solid Waste
CD/DeStefano explained that this section was
-Y
rewritten b Troy Butzlaff,-.the City's Solid Waste
- � -
expert, before the Parks and Recreation Commission
or GPAC's final reviews.
VC/MacBride stated that the words "pose" and
threaten", in the last paragraph, should be
corrected to "poses" and "threatens".
7. Agriculture
C./Meyer suggested that it should be spelled out
clearly, in the existing conditions, that there
isn't any prime soil types in Diamond Bar.
Lloyd Zola stated that the last 'sentence in the
first paragraph indicates that none of these
classifications are in Diamond Bar. However, the
last sentence of paragraph threeshouldbe amended
to read, "Therefore, the remaining agricultural
(grazing land) within the City will eventually be
phased out.,,
8. Mineral Resources
Chair/Flamenbaum inquired why oil is not mentioned
as one of Diamond Bar's significant mineral
resources.
Lloyd Zola explained that there is a specific law
that this is done by. It will be added in order to
clarify this section.
VC/MacBride suggested that the second to the last
line omit the word "anyway".
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
C. Resource Management Issues
CD/DeStef ano explained that the existing setting is
summarized, and then the issue, that needs to be
addressed, is identified.
1. Open Space and Visual Resources
C/Meyer suggested that the second line to bottom
omit the word "local".
April 20, 1992 Page 5
C/Flamenbaum suggested that the sentence, "This is
especially true for the future development on the
Tres Hermanos.... 11 1 be deleted because the
locations of these properties are not identified.
C/Meyer explained that the Park and Recreation
Commission included these properties to serve as
examples of the intent. The location is identified
elsewhere in the document.
CD/DeStefano suggested the wording, "This is
especially true for the future new development in
canyons such as...". The Commission concurred.
VC/MacBride inquired why the deleted section, of
the Issue Analysis, refers to protecting open space
lands, yet the rewritten portion now refers to
providing a balanced open space plan.
C/Meyer explained that the Parks and Recreation
Commission changed the concept because the term
"protect" is somewhat ambiguous. "Protect" could
mean that a fence is built around the property to
keep the public from using it. The Park and
Recreation Commission determined that open space
should be used to meet the recreational needs of
the community. They are trying to balance active
recreational activities with the need to preserve
certain areas in a more natural state.
CD/DeStef ano stated that the Parks and Recreation
Commission recognized that there are a variety of
pressures upon the open space resources within the
community. The statement was to address all the
different issues in terms of protection,
recognizing future development, and a need for
additional recreational space.
Lloyd Zola suggested the following wording, "There
is a need to provide a balanced open space,
preservation, and recreation plan...". The
Commission concurred.
2. Biological Resources
VC/MacBride suggested that the statement, "In
addition to the sphere of influence (Tonner
Canyon)", be deleted because it may lock the City
out of potential sphere of influences.
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the sentence be
reworded to read, "The City, and it's sphere of
influence, contains...". The Commission concurred.
April 20, 1992 Page 6
Following discussion, the Commission also concurred
to delete the last sentence, "There is no trail
system linking these facilities...", from this
section.
3.Parks and Recreation
VC/MacBride suggested that the word "actively" be
omitted from the Issue Analysis.
'C/Meyer stated that there should be some verbiage
that plans for a trail system that would link our
open spaces and recreational facilities.
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the sentence,
deleted from the Biological Resources, could be
added here stating, "There is also no trail system
linking these facilities together - and to plan for
a trail system linking these facilities."
4. Water
VC/MacBride suggested that the word "additional" be
deleted from the Issue Analysis. He also suggested.
that the first sentence be amended to read, "Water
is a scarce, expensive, and natural resource."
5. Energy
VC/MacBride stated that he preferred the deleted
sentence, "The City could make itself a laboratory
for testing new energy technologies.", over the new
sentence added.
CD/DeStefano explained that the Parks and
Recreation Commission was specifically concerned
with opening the door to any technology, especially
unknown technology of the future, being testing
within our community.
VC/MacBride, upon hearing the explanation, accepted
the statement as written.
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the statement,
"work with local utility companies, schools, etc.
toll, be omitted from the Issue Analysis.
6. Solid Waste
VC/MacBride noted that solid waste is not just a
regional problem but one of national,state, local,
and regional concern.
April 20, 1992
Page 7
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested amending the first
sentence to read, "Disposal of solid waste is a
significant problem. Recent legislation has...".
He further suggested that the first sentence be
deleted from the Issue Analysis and be amended to
read, "The City should outline an integrated waste
management—solid wastes, and household hazardous
wastes as mandated by State law."
7. Agriculture
Chair/Flamenbaum, noting that earlier in the
document it was indicated that the City did not
have any prime agricultural land, suggested that
the Issue Analysis be changed to state, "...to deal
with the conversion of grazing lands to other land
uses."
Chair/Flamenbaum called a recess at 8:25 p.m. The
meeting was called back to order at 8:34 p.m.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Greg Hummel, a member of GPAC, residing at 23239
Iron Horse Canyon, referring to page 8, Energy,
stated that the intent, of the sentence deleted,
was to encourage the City to be progressive and to
open the door to the possibility for being a
laboratory to alternate energy resources or
sources. He requested that the item be reworded to
incorporate this concept into the new concept added
by the Parks and Recreation.
C/Grothe suggested that the item be amended to
read, "The City should avail itself of
environmentally safe methods `of resource
conservation, and encourage testing of new
technologies." The Commission concurred.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
D. Goals, Objectives,
Strategies
Goal 1:
and Implementation
VC/MacBride suggested that the word "conserves" be
changed to "conserve".
Objective 1.1:
VC/MacBride stated his concern that the City is
assuming the responsibility of preserving visual
features visible from the City. We do not have the
April 20® 1992 Page 8
ability to preserve something beyond our sphere of
influence and the City limit.
C/Meyer stated ..that the City ----does have a
responsibility to respond to environmental
notification supplied by the County and by
adjoining cities. Our response would be couched
under the preservation of the hillsides. It is not
under our direct control but we do have the
obligation to provide input.
Strategy 1.1.1:
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that "within the State
Route 57 Scenic Highway corridor" be deleted.
Lloyd suggested that the statement be included to
the end of subsection 1.1.1.a, to read "...Tres
Hermanos property; Upper Sycamore Canyon; Sandstone
Canyon; the south end of "The .Country' and the
State Route 57..."
CD/DeStefano stated that GPAC made a specific
statement in striking Sandstone Canyon from
subsection 1.1.1.a to be replaced by subsection
1.1.1.b.
Chair/Flamenbaum stated that subsection 1.1.1.b
does not fit within strategy 1.1.1 which deals with
grading ordinances, and land. form contours. He
proposed that "a." be eliminated and that strategy
1.1.1 read, "...and hilltops. Require contour or
landform grading... prominent slopes,but this
applies, and that this applies, but is not
necessarily limited to the Tres Hermanos property,
upper Sycamore Canyon, Sandstone Canyon, and Tonner
Canyon.". The last sentence, "Such requirements
should also ... Tonner Canyon (sphere of influence)",
should be deleted because it is just another
example.
Strategy 1.1.4:
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that "Retain existing
vegetation" be changed to "Preserve to the maximum
extent possible, existing vegetation within
hillside..."; and add the name of the approving
agency to the end of the sentence, "...approved
fuel modification program, as approved by...". He
further stated that he does not like the way the
whole paragraph is written.
CD/DeStefano stated that staff will reword it, if
the Commission agrees with -the overall concept to
April 20, 1992
Page 9
preserve in the 'maximum amount possible. The
Commission concurred.
VC/MacBride requested that the paragraph also
designate who approves the fuel modification
program.
Strategy 1.1.5:
Chair/ Flamenbaum suggested that the words "existing
vegetation" be changed to "existing significant
vegetation".
Strategy 1.1.8:
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the first sentence
be changed to read, ."...and hilltops in and
adjacent to the City and its sphere of influence.".
The remaining sentence, indicating examples, should
be deleted, otherwise, all the examples in 1.1.8
should be put in 1.1.1, for consistency.
VC/MacBride inquired if there is a reason for
putting in examples.
CD/DeStefano stated that using examples in the
document is helpful in terms of understanding
exactly what the legislators had in mind.
Chair/ Flamenbaum indicated that he will defer to
the professional planners.
Strategy 1.1-9:
Chair/Flamenbaum inquired why this strategy was
deleted.
Lloyd Zola explained that because it is part of the
grading ordinance, it is not necessary to repeat it
in the Plan.
Chair/ Flamenbaum, referring back to the statement
regarding the preservation of Sandstone Canyon,
stated that he is unsure where it should be placed,
but that it should be deleted from this section.
CD/DeStef ano stated that the statement on top of
page 11-12, "Replacement of fresh drinking
water...", is now Strategy 1.1.9, which replaces
the strategy before it. However, after reviewing
it again, it should perhaps be relocated. ..
April 20, 1932 Page 10
Lloyd ;'Zola suggested that the statement might be
better relocated as the eighth bullet in Strategy
.1.2.1. The Commission concurred.
CD/DeStefano stated that Strategy 1.1.10 now
becomes*Strategy 1.1.9.
C/Meyer suggested that Strategy 1.1.9 should be
amended to state, "Enact provisions and techniques
that enhance ground water recharge and local water
recovery.". The paragraph (a), under it, should
then be deleted.
C/Grothe, referring to the statement in Strategy
1.1.4, "retaining or preserving existing vegetation
within hillside development", stated that any open
space left in a tract development would be better
turned into green hillsides then leaving it in it's
natural brown dead state.
Lloyd Zola noted that the fourth bullet in Strategy
1.1.6 covers the intent of Strategy 1.1.4.
Therefore, Strategy 1.1.4 may not be needed.
The Commission concurred to delete Strategy 1.1.4,
with the exception of the last sentence,
"Vegetation may be removed as . .'1, which should
become the fourth bullet of Strategy 1.1.6.
Strategy 1.1.7:
VC/MacBride suggested that "from within and without
the project area" be deleted from the end of the
sentence.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Greg Hummel stated that the intent of the
statement, "Sandstone Canyon shall be preserved in
its present natural state", is to fulfill Goal 1.
He suggested that the statement be added as another
strategy in itself.
Martha Brusque, residing at 600 S. Great Bend,
noted that people could choose not to maintain
their slopes, under the pretense that they are
being kept in its natural state, and thus creating
a fire hazard.
Don Robertson, a member of GPAC, residing at 309 N.
Pantero Dr., stated that Sandstone Canyon must be
included as one of the strategies in order to
satisfy Goal 1.
April 20, 1992 Page. 11
Gary Neely, referring to the statement regarding
Sandstone Canyon, stated that since the City
doesn't own the property, it will be difficult to
preserve it if the developer chooses to develop it.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Lloyd Zola, in response to Chair/Flamenbaum's
inquiry, suggested that the Sandstone Canyon
statement can be revised to indicate that
"significant and -environmental features within
Sandstone Canyon shall be preserved in their
natural state", and placed as a separate strategy.
The Commission discussed whether there should be a
specific statement, within the goals or strategies
of the Plan, of preserving only Sandstone Canyon.
The commission concurred with the statement,
suggested by VC/MacBride, "Preservation of canyon
areas in their natural state shall be pursued."
The statement should be placed as Strategy 1.2.5,
under Objective 1.2.
Strategy 1.2.1:
C/Meyer suggested that the words "identified
sensitive areas" be added to bullet six.
Chair/Grothe suggested that the last two bullets be
reworded to flow better when reading them.
Strategy 1.2.2:
C/Meyer suggested that the words "to the extent
feasible within 11 be added after "Preserve existing
mature trees and vegetation".
VC/MacBride inquired if 1.2.2.d is too specific in
regards to the size of the replacement tree.
C/Meyer noted that the strategy seems to be written
in ordinance form. He concurred that the strategy
is too specific.
The commission concurred to direct staff to rewrite
the strategy, preserving the intent but losing as
much of the specifics as possible.
Lloyd Zola stated that the concept "of allowing
removal of vegetation for fuel modification" should
be added to strategy 1.2.2.a, in the interest of
consistency.
April 20, 1992
Page 1.2
Strategy 1.2.3:
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested' that the word
"coordinate" be replaced by "participate in".
Strategy 1.2.4:
Chair/ Flamenbaum. requested that it be deleted and
placed under Strategy 1.2.2. He noted that part of
the strategy does not relate to trees at all, and
should be reworded. The Commission concurred.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Greg Hummel stated that the General Plan should be
specific enough to specify exactly the conditions
and goals that the City wants preserved, without
exceptions. He suggested that the Commission move
away from being general and get back to being
specific.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Objective 1.3:
Following discussion, C/Meyer suggested the
wording, "Maintain- a system of public/private
recreational facilities...". The Commission
concurred.
Strategy 1.3.1
In response to VC/MacBridels concern, Lloyd Zola
suggested that the strategy be reworded to stated,
"The development of a community center, traditional
neighborhood parks, and community athletic fields
should be pursued." The Commission concurred.
VC/MacBride suggested that the word "actively" be
deleted from bullet 5, and the word "through" be
replaced with "within" in bullet 8.
Strategy 1.3.4
C/Meyer stated that the statement is not written as
a strategy, and it does not belong as part of the
General Plan. It is asking the applicant to submit
data that he may or may not have under his control,
or have knowledge of.
Lloyd Zola suggested the wording "As part of the
Development Review process, require verification as
to the existence of any potential...". The
Commission concurred.
April 20, 1992 Page 13
Strategy 1.3.7:
Chair/Flamenbaum stated that this strategy needs to
be reworded to reflect back to the previous
statement defining the parkland.
Strategy 1.3.9:
VC/MacBride suggested that the sentence be amended
to read "...which analysis present and future
recreation and park needs.". The first bullet
should begin with the word "Develop" rather than
"Development".
The Public Hearing was declared opened:
Martha Brusque stated her concern that though
Objective 1.3 mentions facilities for residents of
all ages, there is no mention of Senior Citizens as
an entity.
C/Meyer explained that the issue of senior citizens
are addressed in the Parks Master Plan and the
Needs Assessment.
Don Robertson stated his concern that the concept,
of having sufficient park facilities convenient to
all areas in Diamond Bar, is being deleted from
Strategy 1.3.7.
Chair/Flamenbaum assured Mr. Robertson that the
Commission requested staff to repair the sentence
so that it is consistent with earlier statements,
and that there is no intention of deleting that
concept.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Goal 2:
C/Meyer suggested that the words, "and not abused",
and the words, "that those", be deleted.
Strategy 2.1.3:
The Commission, upon Chair/Flamenbaum's suggestion
that there be a statement added to subsection "g"
encouraging the use of recycling lawnmowers,
concurred that such a statement would be too
specific.
Strategy 2.1.4:
April 20, 1992 Page 14
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the second sentence
be amended to read, "Encourage upgrading...".
Strategy 2.1.6
CD/DeStefano stated that the first sentence,
"Develop and implement... the General Plan", was not
intended to be placed in this section, and should
be deleted.
Strategy 2.1.5:
C/Meyer, concerned with the use of the word
"ordinance", suggested a more generic term such as
"regulations". The Commission concurred..
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Strategy 2.2.2:
Chair/Flamenbaum, referring to bullet 8, suggested
that deciduous trees be better described as
"drought tolerant deciduous trees".
Lloyd Zola explained that as the reclamation
program becomes on line, there will be some differs
on the reclaimed water system on the planting
plans. It will make no sense to continue the use
of drought tolerant plantings when using water out
of a treatment plant.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Objective 2.3:
C/Meyer suggested that there should be a statement
referring to the Jobs/Housing Balance.
Lloyd Zola explained that,, given Diamond Bar's
built out compared to the City of Industry, the
intent was to purposely stay away from the
Jobs/Housing Balance. Since the City has few jobs
compared to the population, the statement refers to
minimizing trips and getting them closer.
VC/MacBride suggested that the comma after the
word, "patterns" be deleted.
Strategy 2.3.1 and 2.3.2:
April 20# 1992 Page 15
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the statements
within parentheses be deleted.
Strategy 2.4.2.a:
C/Meyer suggested that the verbiage be amended to
be consistent with the concept amended earlier in
the document.
Lloyd Zola explained that it is not necessary to
change theverbiage because the concept of the
energy technology being environmentally safe is
handled in the objective.
VC/MacBride suggested that the sentence in Strategy
2.4.2.a. be amended to read, "Cooperate with...",
and the sentence in Objective 2.4 be amended to
read, "Cooperate with...".
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Gar . y Neely, referring to Strategy 2.3.1, suggested
that, as a precursor to the Plan for Physical
Mobility, the statement should also make reference
to reducing the length of time, and the amount, of
vehicular trips.
Lloyd Zola suggested that the correct terminology
for Strategy 2.3.1 would be, "Land uses in the City
will be planned to reduce vehicular miles
traveled... 11. The.Commission concurred.
Martha Brusque suggested that there should be
mention of reducing the amount of noise created by
cars,. delivery trucks, and garbage trucks. She
also informed the Commission that the bus stops are
littered and have graffiti allover them. The bus
stop at Diamond Bar Blvd. and Sunset Crossing
blocks visibility. The City should take
responsibility for the action it encouraged.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
Strategy 2.5.1:
Chair/ Flamenbaum stated that there should be some
quantification as to how big that commercial or
industrial generator might be.
The Commission concurred to delete the word "all".
.VC/MacBride suggested that the last sentence,
"Incorporate this element...", should be deleted.
April 20, 1992
Page 16
Strategy.,2.5.9:
CD/DeStefano stated that the word "medium" should
be amended to "median".
Strategy 2.5.10:
VC/MacBride suggested that the second sentence be
amended to read, "Encourage the provision... 11
Strategy 2.5.3:
VC/MacBride suggested that the sentence be amended
to read, "Reduce wasteful packaging of
products...
Strategy 2.5.2:
VC/MacBride suggested that the last sentence,
"Incorporate this element... 11, should be deleted.
Strategy 2.5-5:
VC/MacBride suggested that the words "a
multilingual promotional" should be deleted.
The Public.Hearing was declared opened.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
VC/MacBride suggested including another Goal that
states that there is a cost factor in achieving our
goals and objectives. He suggested the following
wording: Goal Three - Identify the financial
resources, and the planning methods,'which the City
Will employ, to support the goals and strategies
outlined herein. The resources and methods will
include open space zoning, public and private
acquisition of open space, .preferential
assessments, conditional use permit exactions,
Quimby Act applications to subdivision approvals,
provisions for open space and specific plans,
Development Agreements, plan unit developments, and
a performance zoning ordinance.
The Commission, concurring with the intent of
VC/MacBridels suggested Goal, discussed if it
should be appropriately worded so that it applies
to each and every segment, or if there should be a
general statement placed at the end of each issue.
C/Meyer indicated that the issue of costs is
adequately addressed in. the Plan for Public
Services and Facilities.
April 20p .1992 Page 17
CD/DeStefano suggested that, if the Commission
concurs with the language suggested by VC/MacBridd,
it can be inserted in the Public Facilities
Element. The Commission concurred.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Gary Neely stated that he objects to any references
to increasing our taxes, and mention of such should
not be encouraged within this document.
Motion was made by C/Meyer, seconded by VC/MacBride
and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to direct staff to make the
corrections, as directed, and to bring the document
back, for the Commission's review, in two weeks.
Chair/Flamenbaum stated that the Public Hearing is
continued to April 27, 1992 at 7:00 p.m. to review
the Plan for Public Health and Safety.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CD/DeStef ano reported that .the Traffic and
Transportation Commission (TTC) has been encouraged
to attend the public hearing on May 4th, at which
time the Commission will be reviewing the Plan for
Physical Mobility. He inquired how the Commission
would prefer to receive the TTCfs comments
regarding the Plan for Physical Mobility. ,
Following discussion, the Commission concurred that
the TTC should be invited to present their
comments, and welcome one of their representatives
to specifically summarize whatever data they may
have.
CD/DeStefano informed the Commission that the City
has begun a recruitment process for a new City
Engineer/Public Work Director.
ADJOURNMENT: Motion was made 'by VC/MacBride, seconded by
Chair/ Flamenbaum. and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to adjourn
the meeting at 11:00p.m.
Respectively,
James DeStefano
Secretary
Attest:
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MINUTES OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
APRIL 27, 1992
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairman MacBride called the meeting to order
at 7:05 p.m. at the South Coast Air Quality
.Management District Board Meeting Room, 21865 E.
Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
PLEDGE OF The audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by
ALLEGIANCE: DCA/Curley.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners: Li, Grothe, and Vice Chairman
MacBride. Commissioner Meyer arrived at 7:23 p.m.
Chairman Flamenbaum arrived at 7:56 p.m.
Also present were Community Development Director
James DeStefano, Associate Planner Rob Searcy,
Planning Technician Ann Lungu, City District
Attorney Bill Curley, Lloyd Zola of the Planning
Network, and Contract Secretary Liz Myers.
CONSENT,CALENDAR: CD/DeStefano stated that 'C/Meyer requested that the
Minutes of April 13, 1992 be amended to indicate
Minutes of that the motion to nominate him for Vice Chairman
Apr. 13, 1992 died for lack of a second. The Commission
concurred.
VC/MacBride requested that the minutes be amended
on page 14 to read, "...that, in order to maximize
efficiency in processing proposed projects, and to
assure as broad a review continuum as possible the
Council consider... ".
Motion was made by C/Grothe, seconded by C/Li and
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to approve the Consent
Calendar, and the Minutes of April 13, 1992, as
amended.
VC/MacBride requested that item 3, CUP 91-13, be
discussed prior to item 2, the Draft General Plan.
The Commission concurred.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: PT/Lungu reported that the K -Mart Corporation is
proposing interior improvements, exterior
CUP 91-13 improvements, and new signage. This proposed
project was last reviewed by the Planning
Commission on December 9, 1992. Since the shopping
center is two separate parcels, owned by two
separate corporations, K -mart needed to obtain the
signatures of all property owners of the shopping
center to continue the review of their project.
The signatures were submitted to staff after the
packets had already been delivered to the
Commission. Therefore, it is recommended that the
Commission continue this advertised public hearing
until the May 11, 1992 Planning Commission meeting.
Steve Naman, an architect for the firm Clemens and
Clemens Architects, representing K -Mart
April 271 1992
Page 2
Corporation, conveyed his client's concern for the
progress of the processing of this project. It is
their intentions to comply with all the
recommendations of the staff and the Commission.'-'---
DCA/Curley, in response to VC/MacBride, explained
that the project has been renoticed. Originally
the application was a design review, but now it is
brought back in the capacity of a CUP amendment.
It would be appropriate for the Commission to open
the public hearing if it is the Commission's desire
to continue the meeting.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Gary Neely, residing at 344 Canoe Cove, noting that
Furr's Cafeteria, which has economically priced
meals, is a division of the K -Mart Corporation,
suggested that the City suggest to the K -Mart
Corporation to investigate the Possibility of
bringing a Furr's Cafeteria to Diamond Bar's K -Mart
center. This will help our senior citizens, and
the economical development of the City.
Martha Brusque, residing at 600 S. Great Bend Dr.,
stated that she doesn't have any objections to the
changes proposed by K -Mart.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
C/Grothe, concerned with the progress of the
project, inquired why the project was advertised if
it was not complete, and why the signatures could
not be made a condition of the CUP.
CD/DeStefano explained that subsequent to the
December 9th meeting,.staff learned that there was
a j0915* -cup over the entire property, and that K -
Mart's ownership could not be segregated from the
remaining ownership within the shopping center.
Therefore, additional signatures were needed by the
other parties involved. Over the course of the
last couple of months, K -Mart Corporation and their
architects have been trying to secure those
signatures. Staff chanced that the signatures
would be at hand for this evening. The reason why
the signature acquisition cannot be conditioned is
because we want to be sure the applicant, Clemens
and Clemens, is representing K -Mart and the other
property owners. The staff is fully prepared to
finalize the documents, the staff report, and the
conditions for the May 11th meeting.
April 27, 1992 Page 3
C/Li, in regards to the Furr's Cafeteria
suggestion, stated that since the project is
basically complete, all the City can do is perhaps
write to the K -Mart Corporation and suggest that
they consider putting a Furr's in Diamond Bar.
CD/DeStefano explained that one of K -M - art's
proposed revisions incorporates a Little Caesars
pizza facility, which would have access within the
store. With respect to Furr's, staff can contact
K -Mart and try to get a response for the May 11th
meeting.
VC/MacBride stated that, it is the consensus of the
Commission to request staff to contact K -Mart to
explore the possibility of a cafeteria site in
Diamond Bar.
The Public Hearing was declared opened on any
aspect of the General Plan.
Fred Janz, 'residing at 2683 Shady Ridge, one of the
owners of the property located at the southeast
corner of Brea Canyon and Diamond Bar Blvd., noted
that the zone has been changed to residential. He
inquired if the change was an oversight. It should
be zoned general commercial.
Motion 'was made by C/Meyer, seconded by C/Li and
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to continue the matter to the
May 11, 1992 meeting.
CONTINUED
CD/DeStefano reported that the Commission has
PUBLIC HEARING:
previously reviewed the Plan for Public Services
and Facilities and the Plan for Resource
Draft General
Management. Tonight's review is focused on the
Plan
Noise and Safety Elements, which are contained
.within the overall Plan for Public Health and
Safety.. This document contains provisions that
relate to the protection of life, health, and
property from natural and manmade hazards. it is
specifically designed to identify areas where
public and private decisions on land uses need to
be sensitive to these possible hazardous conditions
caused by such things as slope instability, seismic
hazards, flood, fire, and wind. The specific Plan
for Public Health and Safety addresses a variety of
issues incorporating geology and seismicity, fire
protection services, flooding, crime protection
services, emergency services and facilities,
hazardous materials, noise, and air quality.
The Public Hearing was declared opened on any
aspect of the General Plan.
Fred Janz, 'residing at 2683 Shady Ridge, one of the
owners of the property located at the southeast
corner of Brea Canyon and Diamond Bar Blvd., noted
that the zone has been changed to residential. He
inquired if the change was an oversight. It should
be zoned general commercial.
April 27, 1992 page 4
C/Grothe explained that the Commission has not yet
reviewed the Land Use Element. However, the
comments will be noted.
CD/DeStefano stated that Mr. Janz's land use
classification request, in addition to others, will
be presented to the Commission on the May 11th or
18th meeting, with a recommendation from the City
staff on the issue.
Bob Buchanan, one of the owners of the property
located on Grand Ave. and Diamond Bar Blvd., stated
that he has been unable to obtain a copy of the
report that states that the lot has been changed
from the existing CPD to a minimum residential.
CD/DeStefano stated that the overall Land Use
Element is, and has been, available to the public.
There won't be a specific reference to this
property contained within the General Plan,
because the document is a broadly based set of
goals and policies. It would be more appropriate
for staff to discuss the issue with the property
owners.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
The Commission concurred to review the revisions
made for the Plan for Public Services and
Facilities.
CD/DeStefano reported that the document contains
the revisions requested by the Planning Commission
on the April 13, 1992 meeting.
The Public Hearing was declared opened.
Gary Neely stated his opposition to Strategy 1.3.2
on page IV -6, "Promote the establishment of such
proven techniques as benefit assessment districts,
Mello -Roos districts,...11.
VC/MacBride explained that he had proposed that, in
every segment of all these plans, that there be a
provision to remind the citizens of this community
that this document is not only one of philosophy,
policy, and goals, of all the things hoped for this
community, but in addition, there are costs
involved to achieve these goals.
Gary Neely, in concurrence with the statement made
by VC/MacBride, stated that he is specifically
concerned that the word, "Promote", sends a message
April 27, 1992
Page 5
to Council that the citizens want an increase in
taxes.
C/Li inquired of Mr. Neely"s approach to obtain
funds for the proposed services and facilities.
Gary Neely stated that he is willing to provide the
Commission with a copy of his plan for the economic
development for Diamond Bar. There are other ways
to raise money without raising taxes.
Bob Buchanan inquired if the Commission ever
considered presenting, to the general public,
various plans of generating additional revenues to
support the City.
CD/DeStefano stated that there were four workshops
held with various members of the community, during
the months of May through June of 1991, regarding
the issues of fiscal responsibility and financial
stability. The following were the conclusions:' to
raise taxes to pay for the services; to provide for
various economic development types of programs; or
to reduce the services. The results of the
workshop were formulated in a document that is
available at City Hall. The General Plan does have
three separate alternatives dealing with increasing
the intensity of development. The City is also
looking at the Tres Hermanos specific plan
property, and the land use alternatives for that
property.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
C/Grothe stated that objective 1.3 was to delete
the words "and legally defensible". Also, the
words "city bulletin" was to be deleted from
Strategy 2.3.3, and be replaced by the word
"informational system".
C/Meyer, in response to Mr. Neely's comments
regarding Strategy 1.3.2, suggested that it be
amended to read, "Investigate the establishment of
proven financing techniques and mechanisms in
combination with program capital improvements to
facilitate the provision of desired community
facilities.". The Commission concurred.
VC/MacBride, referring to page IV -2, stated that he
would like the last statement to read, "...include
branch office postal services administered in
Pomona...". The Commission concurred.
April 27, 1992
Ne Page 6
Motion was made by C/Grothe, seconded by
VC/MacBride and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to approve the
Plan for Public Services and Facilities, as
amended.
The Commission concurred to review the Plan for
Public Health and Safety.
Lloyd Zola stated that the Plan for Public Health
and Safety incorporates two different General Plan
element requirements: Safety and Noise. The
Commission has received also received a. separate
document which' summarizes the noise background
presented in detail in the Master Environmental
Assessment and the EIR. The basic subjects
addressed in the Plan for Public Health and Safety
are geology, seismicity, flooding, fire and crime
protection, emergency service, hazardous materials,
air quality, and then noise. He then reviewed the
issues, pertaining to Diamond Bar, that are
addressed within these subjects.
Chair/Flamenbaum recessed the meeting at 8:24 p.m.
The meeting was reconvened at 8:33 p.m.
The Public Hearing was declared opened for any,
aspect of the Plan for Public Health and Safety.
Martha Brusque, referring to Objective 1.9, page
111-13, informed the Commission that carpoolers are
parking all day at the City's shopping centers,
taking up a lot of the parking spaces.
Don Gravdahl, a member of the Traffic and
Transportation Commission (TTC), stated that there
is a problem in the City because there is not
enough public parking to take care of the park -n -
ride circumstances. The TTC are finding carpoolers
going into residential neighborhoods. There should
be a statement indicating that there is a need to
look at some sort of parking facility. He
suggested that Strategy 1.9.4 and the following
bullet be retained.
The Public Hearing was declared closed.
The Commission concurred to review the Plan for
Public Health and Safety by sections.
Introduction:
C/Meyer suggested that page 1, third lane, properly
spell "caused". He stated that he did not recall
finding the statement, "The safety element shall
April 271 1992 Page 7
include mapping... minimum road widths and
clearances around structures... 11 in the element.
Lloyd Zola stated that "clearances around
structures" will be handled as part of the
Development Code. Some of the other mapping is
included as part of the Master Environmental
Assessment.
CD/DeStefano explained that within the Master
Environmental Assessment there is a noise matrix of
noise sources and proposed noise characteristics
for the future.
Lloyd Zola suggested that the introduction include
not only state law regarding the safety element but
include state- law regarding the noise element in
the Introduction. The Commission concurred.
Existing Conditions:
C/Meyer, referring to the sentence, "The City
presently lacks a master plan of drainage...",
under Flooding, pointed out that the City has
certain responsibility for installing, improving,
and maintaining local drainage facilities.
Lloyd Zola suggested that "at a master plan of
drainage" be added to the end of the sentence. The
Commission concurred.
C/Meyer suggested the following: under Fire
Protection Services, second paragraph, and
throughout the document, properly indicate that it
is the LA County Consolidated Fire District that is
providing fire protection services; and that the
sentence, The City is presently investigating the
potential of forming a fire protection service...
be deleted. The Commission concurred.
C/Meyer, under Crime and Protection services,
suggested that the paragraph indicate that the
service is being provided by the City through a
contract.
CD/DeStefano stated that staff will reword that
paragraph to appropriately indicate that it is a
City provided service via a contract.
Lloyd Zola, in response to ' VC/MacBridels concern
regarding the continued statement references where
additional information can be found, stated that
staff can, throughout the General Plan, footnote
existing conditions that the following is
April 27, 1992 Page 8
summarized from the Master Environmental
Assessment. The Commission concurred.
- --VC/MacBride suggested the following: under
Flooding, the seventh line should be amended to
read "...few links and improvements not yet
constructed."; and, under Emergency Service and
Facilities, the third line should indicate the
distance, rather than the time: The Commission
concurred.
Chair/Flamenbaum, under Crime and Protection
Services, noted the contradiction in the present
service level and the need for additional
protective service in the future.
Lloyd Zola suggested that the fifth line be amended
to read, "The County maintains an average emergency
response time of 4.5 minutes." The following
sentence, "The County currently considers 1.4
officers...for suburban protective service.", be
deleted. The Commission concurred.
Don Gravdahl, noting that Strategy 1.7.4, referring
to establishing a working relationship with local
amateur radio clubs, was deleted, suggested that
reference to the radio clubs should be in the Plan
because the radios, capabilities would be very
useful in a times of emergencies.
C/Meyer suggested the following: under Hazardous
Materials, delete the statement, "...and
environmental regulations become more strict...":
and, under Noise, the word "local" should be
replaced by the word 11arterial" in the first line,
and that the second to last line, "(dogs barking,
airplane overflights, etc.), be deleted.
VC/MacBride suggested the following: under
Hazardous Materials, the third line should omit the
word "many"; under Air Quality, the sixth line
should omit the statement, "...both for the Pomona
area as well as the entire basin"; the ninth line
should omit the words "and especially"; and, under
Noise, first paragraph, next to the last line, the
word "may" should be deleted.
Chair/Flamenbaum, under Noise, suggested that the
specific measurements associated with each of these
roads be deleted, or referenced back to the
environmental report.
C/Meyer stated that the information is pertinent,
and should be left in. The Commission concurred.
April 27, 1992 Page 9
Public Health and Safety Issues:
C/Meyer suggested the following: under Flooding,
the statement should be elaborated to define the
storm year, and to indicate that there are storm
drain deficiencies; under Fire Protection Services,
delete the last sentence, "Development of the
sphere of influence..."; and, under Crime and
Protection Services, the words "defensible space"
should be deleted to make it consistent with the
rest of the document; and the word "County", in the
last line, should be. deleted.
VC/MacBride suggested the following: under
Flooding, replace the words "should develop", in
the Issue Analysis, with "needs", to be consistent
with the format of the other issue analysis; under
Crime Protection Services, the word "relocate"
should be replaced by "may continue to spread".
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested the following; under
Crime and Protection Services, replace the word
"can", in the third line, with "should".
C/Meyer suggested the following: under Hazardous
Materials, delete the statement, "especially as
regulations become more strict and illegal
practices increase"; under Air Quality, the
statement "testing laboratory" should be changed to
be made consistent with the previously approved
portion in the Plan for Public Services and
Facilities; and the specific requirements for
development, of the Air Quality Management
District, be reiterated in this particular
document.
VC/MacBride suggested the following: under
Hazardous Materials, change the words "should
develop" to "needs" in the Issue Analysis; and
under Fire Protection Services, on page 111-3, the
Insurance Rating Organization should be changed to
be consistent with the acronym (ISO).
Lloyd Zola indicated that the correct name is
Insurance Service Organization..
Chair/Flamenbaum, under Hazardous Materials,
suggested that the last sentence be amended to
read,, "Minor accidents involving hazardous
materials are of concern to residents.".
Lloyd Zola suggested that perhaps it should be
further amended to read, "The potential for
April27,r 1992
,MPage 10
accidents is of concern.11 The. Commission
concurred.
Goals, Objectives And Implementation Strategies
GOAL 1:
C/Meyer suggested the following: Strategy 1.1.2
should be deleted since it is part of the UBC;
under Objective 1.2, delete the word "nuisances";
and under Strategy 1.2.4, change the word
"schedule" to "a CIP to include".
C/Li, under Strategy 1.2.3, suggested that the
statement, "including inventory of existing
facilities", be added.
C/Meyer suggested the following: further elaborate
Objective 1.3 to better express what is meant;
under Strategy 1.3.1; replace the words "are
incorporated" with "are addressed"; and, under
Strategy 1.3.2, add "to the extent feasible" to the
end of bullet two.
Chair/ Flamenbaum, disagreeing with the suggested
change to bullet two, Strategy 1.3.2, noted that
the strategy ends with, "Prioritize this balance as
follows:", therefore, all three bullets are
prioritized "to the extent feasible". C/Meyer
concurred to retain it as is.
C/Meyer, in regards to Objective 1.4, inquired if
the six minute response time is the standard for
the Fire District.
Lloyd Zola explained that the basic standard is 5
minutes. • However, there is not really a good
response time standard in wildland areas. The six
minute standard came from discussion with the Fire
District. This is a reason why it is an objective
and not a policy statement.
Chair/Flamenbau,m, in response to C/Meyer's concern
on Strategy 1.4.2, suggested that it be reworded to
indicate that the City of Diamond Bar will not have
the existing residents pay the brunt for new
services borne by new development areas.
C/Grothe noted that the statement in Strategy
1.3.2, 11 ... in a manner which balances... for
preserving biological resources.", seems to be more
of a goal.
April 27, 1992 Page 11
CD/DeStefano explained that the intent of the
statement is trying to say that instead of
stripping an entire hill for the purposes of fire
protection, strip only the portion that the Fire
District recommends.
C/Grothe stated that, in that intent, then the
third bullet should be eliminated.
Lloyd Zola suggested that, instead of eliminating
bullet three, the strategy should be rewritten to
indicate the intent explained by CD/DeStefano. The
commission concurred.
VC/MacBride suggested the following: replace the
word "Eliminate" with "Minimize" in Objective 1.1
and Objective 1.2; correct "opportunities" with
"opportunity" in Strategy 1.3.1; under Objective
1.4, the statement should be rewritten to read,
11 ..response time to all areas is maintained.
Wildland areas..."; and reword the statement
"...encouraging the enhancement of the minimum fire
standards...", in Strategy 1.4.3.
Chair/Flamenbaum suggested that the document
address the areas of rain run-off, as well as heat
reflection characteristics, when talking about
large surface areas. It is a part of environmental
disruption. '
CD/DeStef ano stated that staff will place the issue
somewhere in the Goals and objectives in the Plan
for Public Health and Safety.
VC/MacBride suggested the following:, replace the
word ,suspicious" with "criminal"; and omit the
words "all other" from Strategy 1.6.1.
C/Meyer suggested the following: eliminate the
word "all" from Strategy 1.7.2 and 1.7.3; it may be
appropriate to mention plans for a Hazardous Waste
Plan in the strategies of objective 1.8; replace
the statement, "...and by reducing energy use...",
in objective 1.9, with "promoting energy
conservation"; retain Strategy 1.9.3 and Strategy
1.9.4; and delete the last statement, "(e.g. locate
buildings adjacent...", in Strategy 1.9.5 and
replace it with ,(for example, provide clear
pedestrian paths and connections.)"
VC/MacBride made the following suggestions: delete
the word "develop", from the third line in Strategy
1.7.1, and add, "participate in the development
April 27, 1992 Page 12
of... 11; and to reinsert the idea, of supporting
radio clubs.
Chair/ Flamenbaum suggested retaining Strategy 1.7.4
to read, "Encourage the establishment of auxiliary
emergency communication services.""
Lloyd Zola explained that the idea of deleting
Strategy 1.7.4 was because it was largely covered
under Strategy 1.7.3. He suggested that Strategy
1.7.2 be amended to read, "...such as personnel,
equipment, material, auxiliary communication
services, specialized medical and other training.".
The Commission concurred.
C/Meyer made the following suggestions: keep the
first sentence of Strategy 1.9.6; delete or rewrite
Strategy 1.9.7; and retain Strategy 1.9.8. The
Commission concurred.
.VC/MacBride suggested that Strategy 1.9.7 could be
amended to read, "The City will cooperate with the
South Coast Air Quality Management District in the
analysis of and Possible testing of new air
Pollution control programs.V
C/Meyer made the following suggestions: there
should be a section for definitions in the Noise
section; the statement" ... noise generated by one
use of facility does not adversely affect adjacent
uses.", in Objective 1.10, should be better worded;
Strategy 1.10.2 should be reworded; delete the
section "Retrofits not required for:", and it's two
bullets; eliminate -Strategy 1.10.6;
the first bullet, in Strategy 1.10.7, should be
completed; and, bullet four of Strategy 1.10.7
should be reworded.
C/Grothe, concern that there are areas of the City
that exceed acceptable noise levels, suggested that
the fixed distance for the Sound Corridor come out
of the other section.
C/Meyer stated that he would support the fixed
distances, in the document, as a bases, which is
based on the roadway capacity, or the volumes
measured to date, but then add a section that
focuses on areas that exceed the norm.
VC/MacBride suggested the following: stay with the
threshold of 65 CNEL, in Strategy 1.10., so there
is consistency within the document; and rework
Strategy 1.10.3.
April 27, 1992 Page 13
Following discussion, the Commission concurred that
Strategy 1.10.3 should be reworked to include the
philosophy that if something is built, that
adversely affects your neighbor, something will be
done to mitigate the problem. Also, it should
indicate that some sort of environmental analysis
will be done on uses that could adversely affect
the ambient noise level.
VC/MacBride suggested that the word "Require" be
placed in front of bullet three, in Strategy
1.10.7.
Chair/Flamenbaum noted that there is not a
definition for Noise Impact Corridor.
The Commission concurred that staff needs to
rewrite section 1.10.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CD/DeStefano stated that the Commission will be
reviewing the Circulation Element on May 4, 1992.
The Commission will be reviewing the Land Use and
the Housing Element in the middle of May. The
Commission needs to review not only the Master
Environmental Assessment Analysis, for each of
these different components, but also the
Environmental Impact Report. At the end of these
meeting, the Commission will be asked to approve
not only the General Plan, but to recommend
certification of the EIR.
ADJOURNMENT: motion was made by C/Meyer, seconded by
Chair/ Flamenbaum and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to adjourn
the meeting at 10:55 p.m.
Respectively,
James DeStefano
Secretary
Attest:
Bruce Flamenbaum
Chairman
City of Diamond Bar
PLANNING COMMISSION
Staff Report
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 2
REPORT DATE: April 1, 1992
MEETING DATE: May 11, 1992
CASE/FILE NUMBER:
APPLICATION REQUEST:
PROPERTY LOCATION:
Conditional Use Permit No. 91-13,
Development Review No. 91-4, and Sign
Review 92-6.
Conditional Use Permit No. 91-13 is a
request to amend Conditional Use
Permit No. 495 for , property
improvements.; Development 'Review No.
91-4 * is -7,f or exterior improvement - and
Sign Review "No. 92-6 is for. new
signage.
249 So. Diamond Bar Blvd.
APPLICANT: . K -Mart Corporation
1184 N. Citrus Ave.
Covina, CA 91722
PROPERTY OWNER: Soman Properties
6399 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
BACKGROUND:
The applicant, K -Mart Corporation, is proposing interior improvements,
exterior improvements, and is also proposing new signage..
On December 9, 1991, this project was presented to the commission as a
Development Review. At that time, it was decided that an amendment to
the original Conditibnal Use Permit would also be required. As a
result, this project was deferred until more information could be
obtained along with all the signatures of property owners of the
shopping center. The shopping center is comprised of two (2) parcels
with different owners. The K -Mart parcel is owned by Soman Properties
Inc. and the other parcel is owned by Core Investment Corporation and
Rikuo Corporation. The applicant has the signature of Soman Properties
Inc. on the application and does not have * the signature of Core
Investment Corporation and Rikuo Corporation.
On April 27, 1992, at a notice public hearing, the Planning commission
was informed that the Applicant was unable to obtain the additional
property owner's signatures until Friday, April 24, 1992. Because of
the late date, the staff report was not incorporated into 'the
Commission packets for the April 27, 1992 meeting. Therefore, the
hearing was continued until May 11, 1992.
K -Mart is an extensive retail facility that includes an auto service
facility, a garden shop, deli, and a pharmacy, all of which are owned
and operated by K -Mart. It is located in a Commercial Planned
Development (CPD) Zone within a shopping .-pping center. Generally, -the
following uses surround the site: - to the North is CPD Zone and the
Pomona Freeway; to the South is CPD Zone and Limited Multiple Residence
(R -3-1U) Zone (Mt. Cavalry Lutheran School); to the West is CPD Zone
and the Orange Freeway; to the East is Neighborhood Business -Billboard
Exclusion (C -2 -BE) Zone.
A CPD Zone allows uses which are permitted in a C-1 Zone but with a
Conditional Use Permit. The Conditional Use Permit No. 495, for this
K -Mart facility was acquired through Los Angeles County Regional
Planning on May 15, 1975. Therefore, in order to make any improvements
or changes on the property, an amendment to the Conditional Use Permit
is required.
The purpose of the Development Review process is to ensure that
development projects comply with all applicable local design
guidelines, standards, and ordinances. Through the Development Review
process, the City will minimize adverse effects on surrounding
properties and the environment. This process will also see that
development will be consistent with the Draft General Plan which
promotes high aesthetic and functional standards to complement and add
to the physical, economic, and social character of Diamond Bar.
The roll of the Planning Commission in the Development Review process
is to approve or deny the application and/or to impose reasonable
conditions upon such approval which would ensure compatibility with
surrounding uses and to preserve the public health, safety, and
welfare.
APPLICATION ANALYSIS:
The subject site is approximately 6.87 acres located near the Northwest
corner of Golden Springs Drive and Diamond Bar Blvd. The K -Mart
structures is approximately 84,179 square feet. The shopping center
consists primarily of general retail along with several small
restaurants.
For the proposed interior improvements, K -Mart will be deleting the
deli/snack bar area and cafeteria. New sales areas, stock areas,
restrooms and offices will be created along with the installation of a
Little Caesar's Pizza Station within the facility. No additional
square footage is proposed.
The proposed exterior improvements will consist of relocating the main
entry and the pharmacy entry, extending the height of the facade where
the K -Mart wall sign would be located, a newly designed wall sign for
"K -Mart", and two additional wall signs. Additional exterior
improvements are related to the parking lot surface and landscaping.
4 '
The proposed main entry will be relocated approximately fourteen feet
(141) to the south of the existing main entry when facing the frontage
of the building. The doors will be constructed of aluminum and glass
with an aluminum threshold and pressure sensitive automatic floor mats.
Damage done to the structure's facade will need to be repaired to match
the existing structure facade.
The proposed entry/exit for the pharmacy will be moved six feet (61) to
the south of the existing doorway. Any damage done to the building
facade will need to be repaired and refinished to match the existing
facade.
LITTLE CAESAR'S P77.7s1 STATION
The "Little Caesar's Pizza Station" is proposed to be located
approximately one hundred feet (1001) to the south of the proposed
main entry when facing the building frontage.. This facility will not
have its own entry and exit. It will utilize K -Mart's main entry and
exit.
This facility will be owned and operated by K -Mart. Hours of operation
will be 9 a.m. to 9*p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
on Sunday. These hours also reflect the hours of operation for K -Mart.
PARKING LOT AREA
When visiting the project site, staff found the parking lot area to be
in need of repair. The parking lot area is permeated with "alligator
cracking" and also needs to the have the parking space areas restriped.
In order to remedy this condition, the parking lot will need to be torn
up, a new base prepared of crushed aggregate, and asphalt applied to
the specifications of the City Engineer.
The K -Mart structure is approximately 84,179 square feet. Two hundred
and eleven (211) parking spaces are required including five (5)
handicapped spaces. The actual number of spaces provided according the
original CUP no. 495 is 437 parking spaces. The whole shopping center
which includes both parcels provides 700 parking spaces as per the
original CUP.
LAADSCAPING
There are tree wells in the sidewalk along the building frontage which
have trees in them. Two of the tree wells do not have trees. The
missing trees will need to be replaced. Trees within the parking lot
which are damaged or missing will need to be replaced. All existing
trees and shrubs are to be pruned and landscape areas are to be weeded.
Bare ground areas within planters need to have ground cover planted.
Trees, shrubs, and ground cover planted will match existing. The
irrigation system will need to be inspected to insure that it is
operating properly.
EQUIPMENT LOCATED ON THE ROOF
Mechanical equipment is located on the roof of the K -Mart -structure and --
can be seen from the parking lot and Diamond Bar Blvd. This equipment
needs to be screened from public view.
The other structures which are incorporated into the shopping center of
this proposed project .(not part of the K -Mart parcel) have a red the
mansard roof which matches the existing tile mansard style canopy over
the entrance area of the K -Mart structure. This mansard style roof
conceals the mechanical equipment mounted on the roof. Staff would
like K -Mart to extend their canopy. This would effectively conceal
their electrical equipment and provide a consistent roof line for the
entire shopping center.
SIGNS
The proposed "K -Mart" wall sign is 91 X 111311 equal to a sign face area
of 1011311. The sign is the corporate logo in corporate colors. The
letter 11K11 will be red and the word "Mart" will be white superimposed
on the 11K11. The material to be used to construct the sign is acryglass
plastic. It will be attached to the building with galvanized double
hanging shoe brackets and aluminum angle back supports. This wall sign
is in compliance with the Sign Ordinance which allows a maximum of 125
square feet when frontages exceed 100 lineal feet. In the Sign
Ordinance the definition of a roof sign and wall sign are as follows:
ROOF SIGN: An attached sign constructed upon or over a roof, or
placed so as to extend above the visible roof line.
WALL SIGN: Any sign which is attached, erected, or painted on the
exterior wall of a building including the parapet, with the display
surface of the sign parallel to the building wall, and which does
not project more than twelve inches (1211) from the building.
For this proposed project, the "K -Mart" sign, per the sign Ordinance is
classified as a wall sign.
Three additional wall signs are proposed for this project. The three
wall signs identifies the pharmacy, the garden shop/auto service, and
Little Caesar's Pizza Station. The sign that states 11K -Mart Pharmacy"
has 71.37 square feet of sign face area. The sign that states 11K -Mart
Garden Shop/Auto Service has 150.87 square feet of sign face area. The
sign that states 11 Little Caesar's Pizza Station" also includes a logo.
It has a total of 142.50 square feet. The total sign face area for the
three wall signs is 364.744 square feet. This total in addition to the
sign face area of the corporate logo (11K -MART") of 101.25 square feet
equals a total signage of 465.99 square feet.
The Planned Sign Program provides for a single use building with 200
feet or more of frontage may be approved with signage that exceeds the
maximum aggregate sign area of 200 square feet, provided that:
1. No single wall sign so approved
and no freestanding sign exceeds
stated by the provisions of this
2. Any two.wall signs placed on the
together exceed 125 square feet
than one-half (h) the length. of
exceeds 125 square feet
24 square feet, except as
Ordinance.
same frontage which taken
shall be separated by no less
the building frontage.
The proposed signage does not conform to the above mention guidelines
of the Sign Ordinance Planned Sign Program. The building frontage is
approximately 400 lineal feet. The proposed signs would need to be 200
lineal feet apart. The pharmacy sign is approximately 102 feet from
the corporate logo sign and approximately 10 feet from the Little
Caesar's sign. The corporate logo sign is approximately 140 lineal
feet from the garden shop/auto service sign. Also, the word "K -Mart"
which is included in the two additional wall signs is redundant and
could be deleted.
All existing signage will need to be removed.
PROPERTY OWNERS' SIGNATURES
Signatures from Soman Properties, Inc. and Core Investment have been
obtained. The signature from The signature from Rikuo Corporation has
not been obtained. According to the applicant, Core Investment has
the authority to represent and sign for Rikuo Corporation.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The environmental evaluation shows that the proposed improvements will
not have a significant effect on the environment and is categorically
exempt pursuant to Section 15061 (b) (3) of the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA).
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING:
This item has been advertised
Inland Valley Daily Bulletin
Highlander on April 9, 1992.
property owners on April 16,
RECOMMENDATIONS:
in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and the
newspapers on April 3, 1992, and in the
Approximately 162 notices were mailed to
1992.
Staff recommends that the Planning commission approve Resolution 92 -XX
with the Findings of Fact, Categorical Exemption and listed conditions.
FINDINGS OF FACT:
I. The proposed project is in substantial compliance with the proposed
General Plan pursuant to the terms and provisions of Government Code
Section 65360. It will implement those sections of the. City's
proposed General Plan for the preservation and enhancement of the
character and unique -assets of the City and its harmonious
development.
2. The proposed project will not adversely affect the health or welfare
of persons residing or working in the surrounding area.
3. The proposed project will not have an adverse impact on adjacent or
adjoining residential and commercial uses. It will not be
materially detrimental to the use, enjoyment, or valuation of
property of other persons located in the vicinity of the proposed
project.
4. The proposed project will assist developments to be more -cognizant
of public concerns for the aesthetics of development.
PREPARED BY:
Ann J. Lungu, lanning Technician
ATTACHMENTS:
Application
Resolution
Exhibit "All - site plan, elevations, and floor plan dated May 11,
1992
Exhibit "B" - elevations of all wall signs dated May 11, 1992
FAWP51\W0RK\PC-RPT.STY
A
RESOLUTION NO. 92 -XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT 91-13, DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 91-
4, AND SIGN REVIEW NO. 92-6 AND CATEGORICAL
EXEMPTION, AN APPLICATION FOR TENANT
IMPROVEMENT WITH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR
CHANGES INCLUDING WALL SIGNS LOCATED AT 249
SOUTH DIAMOND BAR BLVD. - LOT 1, TRACT 33851.
A. Recitals
1. K -Mart Corporation has filed an application for
Conditional Use Permit No. 91-13 an amendment to
Conditional Use Permit No 495, Development Review No.
91-4, and Sign Review No. 92-6 located at 249 South
Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar, California, as described
4 *;, V in the title of this Resolution. Hereinafter in this
"iesolution, the subject Development Review application
is referred to as "Application".
2. On April 18, 1989, the City of Diamond Bar was
established as a duly organized municipal organization
of the State of California. on said date, pursuant to
the requirements of the California Government Code
Section 57376, Title 21 and 22, the City Council of the
City of Diamond Bar adopted its Ordinance No. 1, thereby
adopting the Los Angeles County Code as the ordinances
of the City of Diamond Bar. Title 21 and 22 of the Los
Angeles County Code contains the Development Code of the
County of Los Angeles now currently applicable to
development applications, including the subject
Application, within the City of Diamond Bar.
3. Because of its recent incorporation, the City of Diamond
Bar lacks an operative General Plan. Accordingly, ac-
tion was taken on the subject Application, as to consis-
tency to the General Plan, pursuant to the terms and
provisions of California Government S 65360.
4. The Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar, on
May 11, 1992 conducted a duly noticed continued public
hearing on said Application.
5. All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolu-
tion have occurred.
40
B. Resolution
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the
Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that
all of the facts set forth in the Recitalsy,--Part A, of
this Resolution are true and correct.
2. The Planning Commission hereby finds and determines that
the project identified above in this Resolution is
categorically exempt from the requirements of the
California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as
amended, and guidelines promulgated thereunder, pursuant
to Section 15061 (b) (3) of Division 6 of Title 14 of
the California Code of Regulations.
3. Based upon substantial 'evidence presented to the
Planning Commission during the above continued. public
hearing and oral testimony provided at the hearing, the
Planning Commission hereby specifically finds as f6l-
lows:
(a) The project relates to a shopping. center site
comprised of two parcels: the K -Mart retail
building on a parcel of approximately 6.87; the
remainder of the shopping center is on a parcel of
approximately 4.00 acres within the CPD zone , on
249 South Diamond Bar Blvd., City of Diamond Bar,
California.
(b) Generally, to the North is the CPD zone and the
Pomona Freeway; to the South is CPD zone and R -3-
1U zones (Mt. Cavalry Lutheran School) ; to the
East is C -2 -BE zone; to the West is CPD zone and
the Orange Freeway.
(c) The nature, condition, and size of the site has
been considered. The site is adequate in size to
accommodate the use.
(d) The Conditional Use Permit, Development Review,
and Sign Review approval will not have an adverse
impact on adjacent or adjoining residential uses.
It will not be materially detrimental to the use,
enjoyment, or valuation of property of other
persons located in the vicinity and will not
adversely affect the health or welfare of persons
residing in the surrounding area.
(e) The subject property shall be maintained and
operated in full compliance with the conditions of
2
4,4p
this grant and any law, statute, ordinanc
pm
other regulations applicable to any development
t or
�
P
of
activity of the subject property. Failure the
permittee to cease any development shall be a
violation of these conditions.
(f) Notification of the public hearing for this
project has been made.
(g) The Development Review of this project will
encourage the orderly and harmonious appearance of
structures and property within the City along with
associated facilities, such as signs, landscaping,
parking areas, and streets.
(h) It is hereby declared that and made a condition of
this permit that if any condition hereof is
violated, or if any law, statue, or ordinance is
violated, the permit shall lapse; provided that
the applicant has been given written notice to
cease such violation and has failed to do so for a
period of thirty (30) days.
Notwithstanding any previous subsection of this
Resolution, if the Department of Fish and Game
require payment of a fee pursuant to section 711.4
of the Fish and Game Code, payment thereof shall
be made by the applicant prior to the issuance of
any building permit or any other entitlement.
4. Based upon the substantial evidence and conclusion set
forth herein above, and conditions set forth below in
this Resolution, presented to the Planning Commission on
May 11, 1992, continued public hearing as set forth
above, the commission in conformance with the terms and
provisions of California Government Code S 65360, hereby
finds and concludes as follows:
(a) The granting of this Conditional Use Permit,
Development Review, and Sign Review is based on
the reasonable probability that the request
considered herein will be consistent with the
General Plan on the basis of review of the draft
General Plan presently under going evaluation by
the City. There is little or no probability of
substantial detriment to or interference with the
finally adopted General Plan if this application
is granted and the same is ultimately inconsistent
with the Plan because the unique physical
circumstances applicable to the subject site,
together with the conditions applied hereto, serve
to minimize and deleterious impacts which could
3
40P
otherwise arise. Further, this project'
ect
demonstrated
compliance with all applicable
requirements of State law and local ordinance in
addition to the referenced conditions serves to
insure this entitlement is harmonious with and
.beneficial to the community.
(b) The project shall substantially conform to all
plans dated May 11, 1992 as submitted to and
approved by the Planning Commission labeled
Exhibit "All dated May 11, 1992 and Exhibit "B"
dated May 11, 1992.
(c) The alligator cracking of the parking lot surface
shall be repaired for both parcel which form this
center by their property owners - K -Mart
Corporation, Soman Properties, Core Investments
and Rikuo Corporation.
(d) All damaged or missing trees, shrubs, and ground
cover in planter areas shall -be replaced to match
existing. Weeds in landscape areas shall be
removed. Landscape areas shall be maintained.
(e) Mechanical equipment located on the roof of the K -
'Mar structure shall be screened from public view.
(f) The Applicant shall extent red the mansard style
canopy over the * K -Mart structure to match the
existing canopy over the other structures in the
shopping center.
(g) The Applicant shall remove all existing signage.
(h) The total signage which shall be permitted for the
K -Mart facility is 426.37 square feet. (K -Mart
Corporate sign shall be 101.25 square feet;
Garden Center/Auto Service sign shall be 131.06
square feet; Pharmacy sign shall be 51.56 square
feet; Little Caesar's sign shall be 142.50 square
feet.)
This grant shall not be effective for any purpose
until the permittee and owner of the property
involved (if other than the permittee) have filed,
at the City of Diamond Bar Community Development
Department, their affidavit stating that they are
aware of and agree to accept all the conditions of
this grant and pay additional Planning fees.
(j) This approval is valid for one year. If an
extension is needed, a request, submitted in
4
A_
writing, to the Community Development Director
shall be required before the expiration date of
this approval.
(k) The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds
and determines that, based upon the findings set
forth above, and changes and alterations which
have been incorporated into and conditioned upon
the proposed project, no significant adverse
environmental effects will occur.
(1) The Planning Commission finds that facts
supporting the above specified findings are
contained in the staff report and exhibits, and
the information provided to this Commission during
the public hearing conducted with respect to the
project will be made a condition of approval of
said project and are intended to mitigate and/or
avoid environmental effects identified in this
project.
(m) Notwithstanding any previous Subsection of this
Resolution, if the Department of Fish and Game
requires payment of a fee pursuant to Section
711.4 of the Fish and Game Code, payment thereof
shall be made by the applicant prior to the
issuance of any building permit or any other
entitlement.
(n) Any additional Planning fees shall be paid prior
to the issuance of any building permit or any
.,other entitlement.
6. This Planning Commission hereby provides notice to K -
Mart Corporation that the time within which judicial re-
view of the decision represented by this Resolution must
be sought is governed by the provisions of the
California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6
The Planning commission Secretary shall:
(a) Certify to the adoption of this Resolution; and
(b) Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution,
by certified mail, to K -Mart Corporation, at the address
as set forth on the application and to Core Investment
Properties and Rikuo Corporation located it 699 South
Vermont, Los Angeles, CA. 90005.
9
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS THE 11TH DAY OF MAY �q
, 199
BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
BY:
Bruce Flamenbam, Chairman
Attest:
James DeStefano, Secretary
I, James Destefano, Secretary of the Planning Commission of the
City of Diamond Bar, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 11th day of May,
1992, by the following vote -to -wit:
AYES: [COMMISSIONERS:]
NOES: (COMMISSIONERS:)
ABSENT: [COMMISSIONERS:]
11
..I ............. »......., .....I MIS HYe ONOWIG •s BK -- - -
:.. Mn "wl''7� " "rl 69E.{ 6 diNdO�(1bO
.889 ONONVIO
V.
W.
ro
$Z - north
(66py7 z
0
U 4 f-
. z
J
�D 11 a
�U
lu
Y
ca t
( f �
i 1
I �
' � Pfd L:•s..� ~-
-E ^� '
j_ '
,.,r-11%
h'OA18 k�lV/B ONOOWVIQ'8 GIPZyh •'"••" N'""�•—•
�.� ads (3NOWVra --
�•• I I I I I I I I I �� � �,;" .. icy ov l� �---• �
In
J E t C C i I
8 � f'
0 0 { 0 0, r' iiG �al I2}
� W S l l i t• l l l i l l l« � II II' �� i'. _ I s s '_ t--_ � ....�. _v-----. i . i-
J s i � i� \_ • I •3 I N
a
, W
r x�� h FCr
to
0 3 ° • �- -- —trp -_ 9
i 1
f • � ���,�� • 4�r rr ' � I r � ! i.� a `+
IL ✓• Y ] P � wC jL ' �' 4
------------
------------
F. a "
- -
O
a +'} i k �•�5� g }: aS`�T"
z x
a u � (oj +•,z � .���� �S =.Sc w's � ' Imo)\
{S wl� % QiwILP ''VVySS''�� t1
i
Q�
3i ( 1
0
I�
co
Qat � �,• =•.a:l l.Z I
P� 0- ca C.
.e .
U
_1J
_0
m
v
02
n
�x
n
r
,J
_ ._o*
_ .G
n... u.... C...... H..0 I. iu...:.n.,C
31 T!- iy
L^ Lip
T .
{y P1 N� NT
OT 01
$a
`nS on
� po o�
� Cj
9� - -•
y�
I!
07
" �
CD
I
_
_
%<
z —
S:CD
Ce
•.
Apr
r
r
iu
,n
m
r-" CD74
o
D
z
I
W
,--,K
DIAMOND BAR
CALIFORNIA 316
249 B.DIAMOND BAR BLVD.
m
v
02
n
�x
n
r
,J
_ ._o*
_ .G
n... u.... C...... H..0 I. iu...:.n.,C
..,...., •,.. ..... » ,.....»............... ........ •OK18 HV8 ONOWVIO'S St+t ......
""� �'�,► "7�� :�::;n - 696. £ VINUOAI*lvol
\�Jy �lt�� •Y D M
1► �wi
• y��p
`htW
E O •
QI
ay,
�� ,T
x
pp g�g ,n
BOj cc
O
rc
4
rt
.o—
.ro
r
ct
OCT 1 90 14:42 FROM C 0 N S T 'U C Til 0 N
It H H P.1 -F. H UJ
UJ C-1
-Tr I Z L! r-37
L L
Z
w c--
cn 0
CS v C-
�'c CQ
a, 8@
go 2,
2 CZ'
-Jx 6
CD tij Z; c
Z 0 vi ul
1- . V3 = -ft— 0
Q -J:;� —
cm -j L, a m w'
- m
to c -
C.1
w. LW
0
Ej C,
- i��
cu -5
w �c uj
i 0 .4 Z5
c:: QL
W a LU —4
I
A-
7
-r_
a
.6-z
wilb."
!r4-
0�
z
0
z
uj
U)
0
z
M
cio
CO
z
0
C:
c D,
LL
co
'M
A)
Ri
C
0
E
o
(1)
co
o
t'0
c
o
-*-
E
CL
CO
'a,e
-P
—0
O
C: E
-i
ui
uj
U)
0
z
M
cio
CO
z
0
c D,
LL
0
'M
M
CO
CO
U.
c D,
LL
CY) CL
I
z
A)
�4
x1
CQ
6
)0
I
4L �J
u
Zt) LV
cn
I
c
cc
<
m
41
z
0
ICD
Cd
-a
20
C13
0
G
Ct70
a)
L -
Cf)
(0
0)
co
0
C
cr)
Cd
CO
OL
r -L
Cif
(D
E
ui
0
0
.9
wo 0
li
4i
LU
!;z
Lu
0
C)
LM
D
U)
-i
-1
0
co
U -
#
Z—
t�
.
0
Z
z
9
0 :3
0
E
U) a
I
Z
a a
ANEW
U)
�0:- , s
co
E ro
co
= C;)
w
Q -
CV C6
=t1
i
...... _._.....
- Ltj
i� (7t
ticl
CCmama
r y
;
�-m z c.
:W`-'4
GSL.
E g fiswi
CL
r
MCI
4g� ®, ;,
...... _._.....
- Ltj
i� (7t
ticl
r y
�-m z c.
:W`-'4
GSL.
70
CONSENT1 X c �aza� the submis8,{on of the application Accompanying ith.isi request
Signed �ti , _• _Date„
(A1 recoP4od c%nsr5)-----��
Cert.ificat.iont X, tho undarsigned, hereby certify under pen-a.lty of psrjury that
the .informat,ion heroin providod is ccrroc ct to the beat off' my knowZadge.
Print
Signs
(Stroot address or traet end lst nLmbar)
Zoning
Provioua
prosont use of site
Use applied for = ��L�
Project Size (grove xerce) C\ Project density
Domestic Water company/District
Method of sewage disposal District
Grading of Loto by Applicant? yog -- _ Na -4 ----
(show nectsvory grading devism *A Atte plan or Wt map)
R.I PROPAXATE EURDEHS Or PROOt HUSx A000HPAVY AZOUESr
MY OF DIAMOND BAR : ;
CascoGODWIN
DEPAWnM, NT OF PLANNING _:
Recvd Smah
DALY
RECEIVED COMMUNITY
21660 Suite, 190
Dri�'Fax
El:OPi�ENT
SCHECHTER
Receipt Dr
BDYD
HAFFEL
(714)396,-676ey
(714)861-3e 1D]_T
RD
CONDITIONAT, V$E PER Tp9
sr(r
By
P RNER
MAR 19 1992
NIECPPEERT
Record Ownw(s) applicant
Applicant's Agetit'tY
MC EISEN
IN
HALL
Nxmo�..t•L��•a.,,, �t,.. ;p.
1� IAMS
THOMAS
(Last name fIre ?
WILSON
Addreas!ga w;
City ,& - A, -r-A iV,___
.aA
�'�''-' {mss"
Z ip_`���-�
Phone (Z% M,
0 I
-
(Attach separato sheet if necessary, including namoe,
addreesea, and signatures
of mcmbors of partnerahipe, joint vontures, and
di -rectors of corporations)
CONSENT1 X c �aza� the submis8,{on of the application Accompanying ith.isi request
Signed �ti , _• _Date„
(A1 recoP4od c%nsr5)-----��
Cert.ificat.iont X, tho undarsigned, hereby certify under pen-a.lty of psrjury that
the .informat,ion heroin providod is ccrroc ct to the beat off' my knowZadge.
Print
Signs
(Stroot address or traet end lst nLmbar)
Zoning
Provioua
prosont use of site
Use applied for = ��L�
Project Size (grove xerce) C\ Project density
Domestic Water company/District
Method of sewage disposal District
Grading of Loto by Applicant? yog -- _ Na -4 ----
(show nectsvory grading devism *A Atte plan or Wt map)
R.I PROPAXATE EURDEHS Or PROOt HUSx A000HPAVY AZOUESr
RECEIVED COMMUNITY -
DEVE,�OJNIi�Tpr_oP s d lot(wparcel(s)
LEGAL MSCRtIPTION (all r�o�amership com ,ri-s A ��
Area devoted to structures—r
I_andscapinglOpen space
and j
Residential Projects �`�
(gross area) (No. of lots)
Proposed density (Units/Acres)
_ Required Provided
Parking
Standard _
Compact
Handicapped
Total
58 - --
CONSENT: I consent to the submission of the application accompanying this ieques t
Signed Date
(All recorded odners)
Certification: I, the undersigned, hereby certify under penalty of perjury 'that
the information herein provided is correct to the be t of my knowledge,
Printed Name: I-LIW P. ?0 l ,50/,J
(Appl' t or t)
Signed
Jte_ %'W'7 -
(Applicant or Agent) J
Location_ �'`t9 �1✓�%i�fD/� rJ/�`2� 1'dG-1.�,�� 1.02' %?,qG7`: �1
(Street address or tract and lot nuaber)
Zoning G
Previous Cases
t
Present Use of Site A67;Q &
Use applied f or l6'U,q/1i7"
Area devoted to structures/Ni-A" Landscaping/Open space
Proposed density__ ",A
(Units/Acres)
Style of Architectur /°� /''Z IVVVVIJV
Number of Floors Proposed �'1Cl s711�9�
qorf O_.ta l l� 1 n n 1
Slope of Roof A1,A
xccvcl
NT OF VLANNINIG
DEPAWMIL
21660 B. Copley Drive Suite 190 Fee $
I'lax (714)861-3117 Receipt___--
(714)396-5_676
CONDITIONA1, USE pr, RMIT APPLICATION By
--
Appliant-t, Applicant's Agent
Record Owner(s) cqi6
tw
Name
(Lastf first) L, 'I
Add.,esr;,m 4 -LIS
Cit
zip C\
phone
(Attach separate sheet if rieCe5SarYi including names, addresses, and signatures
of mambers of partnerships, joint vant-ures, and directors Of corporations)
at n accompanying this request
CONSENT.- x consent to the submission of the appi o
T' x consent
-0
Date -
signe (A I cc r
'k
certification- tho undersigned, hereby certify under penalty of perjury that
;h(l y knoqladge-
In provided is correct to . the best of it the informat! h herein
Printe
Signed
d Name:
t or Date
d
(Applicant or A
Location 6A.,r— 6k�
(street address or tract and Lot nL-ber)
HNM.
zoning ,-
Previous Cases 15
Present Use of Siter?,
Use al)plied for 5 Ptynt,
I project density
project Size (gross acres) -
n
Domestic Water SSourcecompany/District
Sanitation pistrict
Method of Sewage di6poGa1_MaoLr
Grading of Lots by ppplicant? Yes -
(show necessary grading design on site plan or tent map)
APPROPRIATE BURDENS OF PROOF HUsX ACCOMPANY REQUEST
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning Commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development
SUBJECT: Review of the General Plan - Circulation
Elements
MEETING DATE: May 11, 1992
DATE: May 7, 1992
and Housin
The Planning Commission began the public hearing process and its
review of the General Plan on April 13, 1992. Since that time, the
Commission has reviewed and approved the Plan for Public Services
and the Plan for Resource Management. The Commission has reviewed
the Plan for Public Health and Safety and conducted an initial
hearing on the Plan for Physical Mobility (Circulation Element).
The purpose of the May 11, 1992, public hearing is to continue
public review of the entire General Plan with specific emphasis on
the Plan for Physical Mobility (Circulation Element) and the Plan
for Community Development (Housing Element)..
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Planning Commission re -open the public
hearing on the General Plan, receive testimony on and review the
Plan for Physical Mobility and the Plan for Community Development,
approve specific elements and continue the public hearing to May
18, 1992.
Plan for Physical Mobility
The Plan for Physical Mobility was introduced for review on May 4,
1992. Review of the Plan has been continued to May 11, 1992, in
order for the -Planning and Traffic & Transportation Commissions to
conduct a joint study session on the Circulation Element.
Background data on the Plan and Study Session Agenda is attached.
Housing Element
The Housing Element is a comprehensive assessment of current and
projected housing needs for all segments of the City and all
economic groups. The Element embodies policy for the provision of
adequate housing. The Housing Element has been prepared in
accordance with State Law as have all other components of the
General Plan. Housing is a matter of Statewide policy and
accordance with State Law as have all other components of the
General Plan. Housing is a matter of Statewide policy and
therefore, specific provisions for compliance with State housing
goals must be addressed.
The purpose of the housing section of the Plan for Community-_____
Development is to identify local housing problems and needs and to
identify measures to mitigate or alleviate the problems and needs
for all economic segments of the community. This is the only
element of the General Plan required by State Law to contain
specific, measurable objectives. The Housing Element contains an
extensive assessment of issues, opportunities, housing conditions,
needs, resources and constraints.
The Southern California Association of Government (SCAG) has
prepared a Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA). the RHNA
estimates the total projected need for housing in the region and
specific share each city must provide. Based upon the
calculations, the City of Diamond Bar is required to develop and
implement policies which will permit and effectuate housing over
the next five (5) years as follows:
Units Income range
117 very low
182 low
144 moderate
338 upper
781
State goals are an integral part of the Housing Element. The State
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) reviews local
housing elements for compliance with state law. HCD has reviewed
our element and offered comments. HCD provides suggestions for
changes, however, we are not required to make changes based upon
HCD's analysis. In fact, although the law has been in effect for
many years, only 21 percent of the 509 cities and counties in the
State have elements in compliance with State Law. The State cannot
force local governments to make changes unless the Attorney General
decides to litigate the city. Most cities are clearly not
interested or motivated to implement state housing goals,
preferring to, at best, push the problem to another community or,
worse, ignore the housing needs of the State.
Diamond Bar is not unique in developing a plan which focuses our
attention on preservation of our lower density residential
community. The GPAC has established the maximum density for
residential development at 12 units per acre. Although many
programs have been developed at such densities, it is clear that
the most successful means of providing housing for all segments of
our community is to raise density.
2
The city must decide now and if it desires to fulfill its role in
the promotion, development and retention of housing for all income
levels.
The General Plan text provides an excellent resource for
understanding our current housing conditions and GPAC
recommendations for the future. Please review the attached GPAC
approved Housing Element. Please, also review the relevant.
sections of the Master Environmental Assessment and the Master
Environmental Impact Report. Additionally, please find attached
copies of HCD's comments on our Draft Housing Element, the State
Guidelines, and information from the State office of Planning and
Research on the Housing Element.
Attachments: Review by California Department of Housing . &
Community Development
State of California General Plan Guidelines as
pertains to the Housing Element
Office of Planning and Research: The Required
Elements of the General Plan - Housing Element
3
ti �:
CHAPTER I: The Nature, Content, and Format of the General Plan
CONTENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN
The reader of a community plan must be able to determine how the plan's policies
app' yto
each affected parcel.
While an- area or community plan is an in part of a general plan, a specific plan is not. Specific Plans
The latter, like zoning, implements a general plan. When adopted it does not amend a general
plan, but instead is an entirely separate document that must be consistent with all facets of
the general plan (including any area and community plans).
A specific plan is ahybrid policy statement and/or regulatorytool that is often used to address
a single project such as an urban infill development or a planned community. As a result, its
emphasis is on concrete standards and development criteria to supplement those of the
general plan. Its text and diagrams address land use (including open space), infrastructure,
standards for .development and natural resource conservation, and implementation mea-
sures. Perhaps because of its dual policy/regulatory nature, a specific plan may be adopted
either by resolution (like a general plan) or by ordinance (like zoning). All zoning,
subdivision, and public works projects must be consistent with an adopted specific plan.
CONTENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN
PLAN ELEMENTS AND ISSUES ADDRESSED
TRADITIONALLY, the general plan has been organized as a collection of"elements" or subject
categories such as land use, circulation, and open space. However, it is crucial to realize that
it is not the number of distinct elements that the general plan contains that is important, but
instead the integral nature of the subject matter and the content of the general plan as awhole.
State law provides that the general plan must address seven elements (Government Code
Section 65302). These and the issues each embodies are briefly summarized below:
• The land use element designates the general distribution and intensity of uses of the land Mandatory
for housing, business, industry, open space, education, public buildings and grounds, Elements
waste disposal facilities, and other categories of public and private uses.
• The circulation element is correlated with the land use element and identifies the general
location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes,
terminals, and other local public utilities and facilities.
• The housing element is a comprehensive assessment of current and projected housing
needs forall segments ofthecommunity and all economicgroups. In addition, it embodies
policy for providing adequate housing and includes action programs for this purpose.
• The conservation element addresses the conservation, development, and use of natural
resources including water, forests, soils, rivers, and mineral deposits..
• The open -space element details plans and measures for preserving open space for natural
resources, the managed production of resources, outdoor recreation, public health and
safety, and the identification of agricultural land.
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 21
CHAPTER I: The Nature, Content, and Format of the General Plan
CONTENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN
® The noise element identifies and appraises noise problems within the community and
forms the basis for land use distribution.
® The safety element establishes policies and programs to protect the community from risks
associated with seismic, geologic, flood, and fire hazards.
The detail that each issue is afforded in the local plan depends upon local conditions and the
relative local importance of that issue. It is important that the plan clearly identify the issues.
When a city or county determines'that an issue specified in the law does not apply to local
conditions, the general plan should document the reason for that decision.
Optional In addition to the general plan elements listed in Government Code Section 65302, local
Elements governments may adopt "any other elements or address any other subjects which ... relate to
the physical development of the county or city" (Government Code Section 65303). Upon
adoption, an optional element becomes an integral part of the general plan. It has the same
force and effect as the mandatory elements and must be consistent with the other elements
ofthe plan. In turn, zoning, subdivisions, public works, and specific plans must be consistent
with all optional elements.
An optional element may expand local government authority. Here are some examples. The
California Energy Commission may delegate geothermal power plant licensing authority to
counties with certified geothermal elements (see Appendix B). A historic preservation
element may lay the foundation for historic district regulations and design standards. A
strategic fire prevention planning element may identify wildfire hazard areas, control new
development within those areas, and provide the basis for strict zoning, subdivision, and
brush clearance ordinances.
Common themes for optional elements include recreation and parks, air quality, public
facilities, historic preservation, community design, and energy. The subjects and contents of
optional elements are chosen by the adopting city or county.
Content The content of a local general plan is not limited to the issues listed in section 65302. Local
general plans may also address optional topics of local interest within the context of the
mandatory elements. For instance, a city may choose to describe a detailed program for
financing infrastructure and timing capital improvements as part of its land use element. The
safety element of a city or county that suffers from wildfire hazard may contain a strategic fire
protection planning program that establishes .policies to mitigate such hazards.
There are also a number of special requirements which may affect the content of the general
plan. These are discussed in Chapter VI.
ADOPTION OF ANOTHER JURISDICTION'S GENERAL PLAN
AND JOINT ADOPTION
A city or county may adopt all or a portion of the general plan of another public agency
(Government Code Section 65301(a)). Additionally, Government Code Section 653020
specifically provides that a city may adopt the county's safety element if the county's element
"is sufficiently detailed containing appropriate policies and programs for adoption by a city."
One of the benefits of this approach is that it eliminates duplication of effort in collecting
data for the more technical elements.
22 . GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
: HOUSING .ELEMENT
PERTINENT GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS
Note: Due to the length of the housing element statutes, the following is not a complete collection of
pertinent code sections. Readers are urged to read the entire housing element statute in detail, beginning with
Government Code Section 65580, before preparing or revising a housing element.
Government Code Section 65583: The housing element shall consist of an identification
and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies,
quantified objectives, and scheduled programs for the preservation, improvement, and
development of housing. The housing element shall identify adequate sites for housing,
including rental housing, factory -built housing, and mobilehomes, and shall make adequate
provision for the existing and projected needs of all economic segments of the community.
The element shall contain all of the following:
(a) An assessment of housing needs and an inventory of resources and constraints relevant Contents
to the meeting of these needs. The assessment and inventory shall include the following:
(1) Analysis of population and employment trends and documentation of projections and
a quantification of the locality's existing and projected housing needs for all income levels.
These existing and projected needs shall include the locality's share of the regional housing
need in accordance with..Section 65584.
(2) Analysis and documentation of household characteristics, including level of payment
compared to ability to pay, housing characteristics, including overcrowding; and housing
stock condition.
(3) An inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and
sites having potential for redevelopment, and an analysis of the relationship of zoning and
public facilities and services to these sites.
(4) Analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints upon the maintenance,
improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including land use controls,
building codes and their enforcement, site improvements, fees and other exactions required
of developers, and local processing and permit procedures.
(5) Analysis of potential and actual nongovernmental constraints upon the maintenance,
improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including the availability of
financing, the price of land, and the cost of construction.
(6) Analysis of any special housing needs, such as those of the handicapped, -elderly, large
families, farmworkers, families with female heads of households, and families and persons in._
need of emergency shelter. .
(7) Analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential develop-
ment.
(8) An analysis of existing assisted housing developments that are eligible to change to non-
low-income housing uses during the next 10 years due to termination of subsidy contracts,
mortgage prepayment, or expiration of use restrictions. "Assisted housing developments,"
for the purpose of this section, shall mean multifamily rental .housing that receives
governmental assistance under federal programs listed in subdivision (a) of Section 65863. 10,
state and local multifamily revenue bond programs, local redevelopment programs; .the
federal Community Development Block Grant Program, or local in -lieu fees. "Assisted
housing developments" shall also include multifamily rental units that were developed
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
93
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
pursuant to a local inclusionary housing program or used to qualify for a density bonus
pursuant to Section 65916.
(A) The analysis shall include a listing of each development by project name and address,
the type of governmental assistance received, the earliest possible date of change from low-
income use and the total number of elderly and non -elderly units that could be lost from the
locality's low-income housing stock in each year during the 10 -year period. For purposes of
state and federally funded projects, the analysis required by this subparagraph need only
contain information available on a statewide basis.
(B) The analysis shall estimate the total cost of producing new rental housing that is
comparable in size and rent levels, to replace the units that could change from low-income
use, and an estimated cost ofpreserving the assisted housing developments. This cost analysis
for replacement housing maybe done aggregately for each five-year period and does not have
to contain a project by project cost estimate.
(C) The analysis shall identify public and private nonprofit corporations known to the
local government which have legal and managerial capacity to acquire and manage these
housing developments.
(D) The analysis shall identify and consider the use of all federal, state, and local financing
and subsidy programs which can be used to preserve, for lower income households, the
assisted housing development, identified in this paragraph, including, but not limited to,
federal Community Development Grant Program funds, tax increment funds received by a
redevelopment agency of the community, and administrative fees received by a housing
authority operating within the community. In considering the use of these financing and
subsidy programs, the analysis shall identify the amounts of the funds under each available
program which have not, been legally obligated for other purposes and which could be
available for use in preserving assisted housing developments.
Policy Statements (b) A statement of the community's goals, quantified objectives, and policies relative to
the maintenance, preservation, improvement, and development of housing.
It is recognized that the total housing needs identified pursuant to subdivision (a) may
exceed available resources and the community's ability to satisfy this need within the content
of the general plan requirements outlined in Article 5 (commencing with Section 65300).
Under these circumstances, the quantified objectives need not be identical to the identified
existing housing needs, but should establish the maximum number of housing units that can
be constructed, rehabilitated, and conserved over a five-year time frame.
Action Program (c) A program which sets forth a five-year schedule of actions the local government is
undertaking or intends to undertake to implement the policies and achieve the goals and
objectives of the housing element through the administration of land use and development
controls, provision of regulatory concessions and incentives, and the utilization of appropri-
ate federal and state financing and subsidy programs when available and the utilization of
moneys in a Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund of an agency if the locality has
established a redevelopment project area pursuant to the Community Redevelopment Law
(Division 24 (commencing with Section 33000) of the Health and Safety Code). In order
to make adequate provision for the housing needs of all economic segments of the
community, the program shall do all of the following:
(1) Identify adequate sites which will be made available through appropriate zoning and
development standards and with public services and facilities needed to facilitate and
encourage the development of a variety of types of housing for all income levels, including
rental housing, factory -built housing, mobilehomes, emergency shelters and transitional
94 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
housing In order to meet the community's housing goals as identified in subdivision (b)..
(2) Assist development ofadequate housing to meet the needs oflow- and moderate -
income households.
(3) Address and, where appropriate and legally possible, remove governmental constraints
to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing.
(4) Conserve and improve the condition of the existing affordable housing stock.
(5) Promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex, marital
status, ancestry, national origin, or color.
(6) Preserve for lower income households the assisted housing developments identified
pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a). The program for preservation of the assisted
housing developments shall utilize, to the extent necessary, all available federal, state, and
local financing and subsidy programs identified in paragraph (8) of subdivision (a), except
where a community has other urgent needs for which alternative funding sources are not
available. The program may include strategies that involve local regulation and technical
assistance.
The program shall include an identification ofthe agencies and officials responsible for the
implementation ofvarious actions and the means bywhich consistency will be achieved with
other general plan elements and community goals. The local government shall make a
diligent effort to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community in
the development of the housing element, and the program shall describe this effort.
(d) The analysis and program for preserving assisted housing developments required by
the amendments to this section enacted by the Statutes of 1989 shall be adopted as an
amendment to the housing element by January 1, 1992.
(e) Failure of the department [of Housing and Community Development] to review and
report its findings pursuant to Section 65585 to the local government between January 1,
1992, and the next periodic review and revision required by Section 65588, concerning the
housing element amendment required by the amendments to this section by the Statutes of
1989, shall not be used as a basis for allocation or denial of any housing assistance
administered pursuant to part 2 (commencing with Section 50400) of Division 31 of the
Health and Safety Code.
Government Code Section 65585: (a) Each local government shall consider the guidelines
adopted by the department pursuant to Section 50459 of the Health and Safety Code in the
preparation and amendment of its housing element pursuant to this article. Those guidelines
shall be advisory to each local government in order to assist it in the preparation of its housing
element.
(b) At least 90 days prior to adoption of the housing element, or at least 45 days prior to
the adoption of an amendment to this element, the planning agency of a local government
shall submit a draft of the element or amendment to the department. The department shall
review drafts submitted to it and report its findings to the planning agency within 90 days
of receipt of the draft in the case of adoption of the housing element pursuant to this article,
or within 45 days of receipt of the draft in the case of an amendment. The legislative body
shall consider the department's findings prior to final adoption of the housing element or
amendment unless the department's findings are not available within the above prescribed
time limits. If the department's findings are not available within those prescribed time limits,
the legislative body may take the department's findings into consideration at the time it
considers future amendments to the housing element.
(c) Each local government shall provide the department with a copy of its adopted housing
HCD Review
GENERAL PIAN GUIDELINES 95
.. CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
element or amendments. The department may review adopted housing elements or
amendments and report its findings.
(d) Except as provided in Section 65586, any and all findings made by the department
pursuant to subdivisions (b) and (c) shall be advisory to the local government.
Periodic Review Government Code Section 65588: (a) Each local government shall review its housing
element as frequently as appropriate to evaluate all of the followings
(1) The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to
the attainment of the state housing goal.
(2) The effectiveness of the housing element in attainment of the community's housing
goals and objectives.
(3) The progress of the city, county, or city and county in implementation of the housing
element.
(b) The housing element shall be revised as appropriate, but not less than every five years,
to reflect the results of this periodic review.
In order to facilitate effective review by the department of housing elements, local
governments following shall prepare and adopt the first two revisions of their housing
elements no later than the dates specified in the following schedule, notwithstanding the date
of adoption of the housing elements in existence on the effective date of the act which
amended this section during the 1983-84 session of the Legislature.
Deadlines (1) Local governments within the regional jurisdiction of the Southern California
Association of Governments: July 1, 1984, for the first revision and July 1, 1989, for the
second revision.
(2) Local governments within the regional jurisdiction of the Association of Bay Area
Governments: January 1, 1985, for the first revision, and July 1, 1990, for the second
revision.
(3) Local governments within the regional jurisdiction of the San Diego Association of
Governments, the Council of Fresno County Governments, the Kern County Council of
Governments, the Sacramento Council of Governments, and the Association of Monterey
Bay Area Governments: July 1, 1985, for the first revision and July 1, 1991, for the second
revision.
(4) All other local governments: January 1, 1986, for the first revision, and July 1, 1992,
for the second revision.
(c) The review and revision of housing elements required by this section shall take into
account any low- or moderate -income housing which has been provided or required
pursuant to Section 65590.
Scope of Review (d) The review pursuant to subdivision (c) shall include, but need not be limited to, the
following:
(1) The number of new housing units approved for construction within the coastal zone
after January 1, 1982.
(2) The number of housing units for persons and families of low or moderate income, as.
defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, required to be provided in new
housing developments either within the coastal zone orwithin three miles ofthe coastal zone
pursuant to Section 65590.
(3) The number of existing residential units occupied by persons and families of low or
moderate income, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, that have been
authorized to be demolished or converted since January 1, 1982, in the coastal zone.
(4) The number of residential dwelling units for persons and families oflow or moderate
96 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
income, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, that have, been. required
for replacement or authorized to be converted or demolished as identified in.paragraph. (3).
The location'.of the replacement units,:either on-site, elsewhere.within.the locality's
jurisdiction within the coastal zone, or within three miles of the coastal zone within the
locality's jurisdiction, shall be designated in the review.
Government Code Section 65303: The general plan may ... address any other subjects
which, in the judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the
county or city.
The Legislature enacted the first housing element requirement in 1969, but it contained no
detailed statutory requirements. The State Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) issued informal advisory housing element guidelines in 1971, but
lacking detailed requirements, it could not critically review housing elements for compliance.
In 1975, AB 1X (Chapter 1) instructed HCD to adopt housing element guidelines and
authorized the department to review and comment on local housing elements. The resulting
1977 guidelines called for new housing elements to contain an unprecedented degree of
specific detail in their analysis of housing needs, resources, and programs.
The 1977 guidelines became the subject of controversy over whether they were advisory or
binding upon cities and counties. The Legislature resolved the controversy in 1980 by
statutorily specifying a housing element's requirements, declaring HCD guidelines to be
advisory, and requiring cities and counties to consider the department's findings prior to
adopting the element.
COURT INTERPRETATIONS
Buena Vista Gardens Apartments Association v. City of San Diego Planning Dept. (1985) 175
Cal.App.3d 289 provides the most thorough judicial discussion of housing element law. The
plaintiff and appellant in the case were tenants occupying a large apartment complex for
which the city had approved a long-term plan to demolish the existing units and develop
condominiums on the site. The tenants challenged the plan's final approval, alleging that the
city's housing element failed to meet statutory requirements in seven respects.
The appellate court found that in six of the seven respects the element substantially complied Conservation
with state law. However, the element lacked any programs encouraging the conservation of Program
mobilehome parks or existing affordable apartment rental units. The fact that the city had
no basis upon which to deny the developer a demolition permit demonstrated the city's lack
of a program to conserve affordable rental housing. As a result, the court prohibited the
permit's issuance until the city amended its housing element with conservation programs
substantially conforming to statutory requirements.
Court review of a legislative act, such as adoption of a general plan element, is very narrow.
The court may only review for literal compliance with statutory mandates and may not
scrutinize the wisdom or merits of the content of the element. The role of the Department
of Housing and Community Development (HCD), because it reviews housing elements, is
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 97
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
broader. The court acknowledged, "(the) department reviews not only to ensure the %<<
requirements of 65583 are met, but also to make suggestions for improvements." Further-
more, the court noted: "(while) this court may be of the opinion [that the] city should adopt
department's recommendations, the Legislature has stated its recommendations are advisory
(Section 65585, subd.(a))."
Buena Vista Gardens is consistent with the growing number of cases that support the general
plan's integrity and require "substantial" (i.e., actual) compliance with its statutorily stated
content. For example, a project may be halted when the general plan either lacks a relevant
element or the relevant element is inadequate, as many cases have demonstrated.
Court Sanctions A more recent case, Committee for Responsible Planning v. City of Indian Wells (19 89) 209
Cal.App.3d 1005, exemplifies the type of action a court may take after it invalidates a general
plan: After holding Indian Well's general plan invalid for failure to achieve internal
consistency and failure to address various statutorily required issues in the housing element,
the trial court ordered the city to bring its general plan into compliance with state law and
imposed a moratorium. The court order prevented the city from granting building permits
and discretionary land use approvals such as subdivision maps, rezoning, and variances until
it updated its general plan.
In the meantime, a developer sought approval to record a final tract map. Pursuant to
Government Code Section 65755(b), the subdivider requested that the court waive the
moratorium's restrictions. The court may do so when it finds that the project would "not
significantly impair" the city's ability to adopt all or part of the new plan in compliance with
statutory requirements. Recognizing the Legislature's statutory guidance reflecting the
housing element's "preeminent importance," the court disagreed with the developer's
arguments that the tract map would not affect the city's ability to adopt an adequate housing
element. The court refused to allow approval of the map until the general plan was adopted.
RELEVANT ISSUES
The housing element issues listed below are derived from Government Code Sections 65583
and 65590. Local governments may address these matters in any format they deem
appropriate. For example, they may group together issues having functional relationships or
overlapping meanings such as "preservation," "maintenance," and "improvement" -of
housing. The important thing to remember is that a housingelement, regardless of its format,
should clearly identify and address, at a minimum, each of the following issues.
Preservation of housing (Gov.C. Section 655831st para. & (b))
Maintenance of housing (Gov.C. Section 65583 lst para. & (b))
Improvement and conservation of housing, including affordable housing stock (Gov.C.
Section 65583 1st para., (b) & (c)(4))
Development of housing (Gov.C. Section 65583 1st para. & (b))
Adequate sites for housing (Gov.C. Section 65583 1st para.)
Adequate provision of housing for existing and projected needs, including regional
share, for all economic segments of the community (Gov.C. Section 65583 1st para.)
Promotion of housing opportunities for all persons (Gov.C. Section 65583(c)(5))
98 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER III: ,The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
Coastal zone replacement housing (Gov.C. Sections 65588(c)(d) and 65590(h)(2)) -
applicable to jurisdictions which are partially or entirely within the Coastal Zone
REVIEWING AND .REVISING THE HOUSING ELEMENT
Unlike the other elements of the general plan, state law explicitly requires that the housing
element be reviewed and updated continuously (Government Code Section 65588). Cities
and counties must review their housing elements as frequently as appropriate with regard to:
(1) The appropriateness oftheir housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the Scope
attainment of the state housing goal.
(2) The effectiveness ofthe housing element in attaining the community's housing goals and
objectives.
(3) The progress in implementing the housing element.
Evaluations of the element's effectiveness and success in its implementation should include
the following information:
A comparison of the actual results of the element with its goals, objectives, policies and Information
programs. The results should be quantified where possible, but may be qualitative where
necessary.
• An analysis of the significant differences between what was projected or planned in the
earlier element and what was achieved.
• A description of how the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the updated element
incorporate what was learned from the results of the prior element.
The housing element must be comprehensively revised at least every five years to reflect the
results of this periodic review. Government Code Section 65588 establishes the timetable for
these revisions.
In coastal communities, the revision must take into account any low- or moderate -income Coastal Zone
housing that has been provided or required in the coastal zone in accordance with
Government Code Section 65590. The review of coastal zone housing activity shall include
at least the following information:
• The number ofnewhousing units approved for construction within the zone afterjanuary
1, 1982.
• The number of units for persons and families of low or moderate income that have been
required to be included in new housing developments either within the zone or within 3
miles thereof.
• The number of existing units occupied by low- or moderate -income residents that -have
been authorized to be demolished or converted to another use within the zone since
January 1, 1982.
• The number of low- or moderate -income residential units that have been required for
replacement or authorized for demolition or conversion as quantified above. The review
must also identify the location of any replacement units.
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 99
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
100
Useful Housing Element Definitions
Assisted Housing Developments: Multifamily rental housing that receives gov-
ernmental assistance under federal programs listed in subdivision (a) of Government
Code Section 65863.10, state and local multifamily revenue bond programs, local
redevelopment programs, the federal Community Development Block Grant
Program, or local in -lieu fees. The term also includes multifamily rental units that
were developed pursuant to a local inclusionary housing program or used to qualify
for a density bonus pursuant to Government Code Section 65916.
.Income Levels: Income categories are defined with respect to the area median
income and are adjusted for household size. For detailed definitions of these terms,
the reader should consult Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 69 10) of Title 25
of the California Code of Regulations. Although there are exceptions, the four -
person income limits are as follows:
Very Low Income: No more than 50 percent of the area median income.
Other Lower Income: Between 50 and 80 percent of the area median income.
Lower Income: No more than 80 percent of the area median income (i.e.,
combination of very low income and other lower income).
Moderate Income: Between 80 and 120 percent of the area median income.
Above Moderate'Income: Above 120 percent of the area median income.
Goal: See the definition of "goal' in Chapter I of these guidelines.
Quantified Objective: The housing element must include quantified objectives
which specify the maximum numbers of housing units that can be constructed,
rehabilitated, and conserved within a five-year time frame, based on the needs,
resources, and constraints identified in the housing element (Government Code
Section 65583(b)). The number of units that can be conserved should include a
subtotal for the number of existing assisted units subject to conversion to non -low-
income uses which can be preserved for lower-income households. Whenever
possible, objectives should be set for each particular housing program, establishing
a numerical target for the effective period of the program.
Ideally, the sum of the quantified objectives will be equal to the identified
housing needs. However, identified needs may exceed available resources and
limitations imposed by other requirements of state planning law. Where this is the
case, the quantified objectives need not equal the identified housing needs, but
should establish the maximum number of units that can be constructed, rehabili-
tated, and conserved (including existing subsidized units subject to conversion
which can be preserved for lower-income use), given the constraints. See the
definition of "objective" in Chapter I of these guidelines.
Policy: See the definition of "policy" in Chapter I of these guidelines.
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
IDEAS FOR DATA AND ANALYSIS
The following aspects of data and analysis for housing elements are based on housing element
law. For further guidance, consult the Department ofHo using and CommunityDevelopment
(HCD).
Preservation of housing
• With regard to all economic segments of the community, identification and analysis of
opportunities to preserve housing
• Identifica.tion of techniques for administering land use and development controls to
facilitate the preservation of housing
• Identification -of incentives for the preservation of housing (e.g., transferable development
rights and historical property contracts pursuant to Gov.C. Section 50280 et seq.)
Maintenance of housing
• With regard to all economic segments of the community, identification and analysis of
.opportunities for housing maintenance programs
• Identification of techniques for administering land use and development controls to
facilitate the maintenance of housing
• Identification of incentives for the maintenance of housing (e.g., expedited permit
processing and fee reductions)
Improvement and conservation of housing, including affordable housing stock
• With regard to all economic segments of the community, identification and analysis of
opportunities to improve and conserve existing housing stocks
• Identification of techniques for administering land use and development controls to
facilitate the improvement and conservation of housing
• Identification of incentives for the improvement and conservation of housing (e.g.,
expedited permit processing and fee reductions)
Development of housing
• With regard to all economic segments of the community, identification and analysis of
opportunities to develop new housing
• Identification of techniques for administering land use and development controls to
facilitate the development of housing
• Identification of incentives for the development of housing (e.g., density bonuses,
expedited permit processing, and fee reductions) ,
Adequate sites for housing
• Inventory of land suitable for residential development, including:
Vacant sites
- Sites having potential for redevelopment
.Analysis of these sites in relation to:
- Zoning
- Public facilities
- Public services
Identification of adequate sites for housing to meet existing and projected housing needs,
including sites for:
- .Rental housing
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 101
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
- Factory -built housing
- Mobilehomes f
Emergency shelters
Transitional housing
Evaluation of the administration ofzoning and subdivision ordinances with regard to the
provision of adequate sites for housing
Adequate provision of .housing for existing and projected needs, i icluding regional
share, for all economic segments of the community
Housing needs
® Disclosure of the local share of
- existing regional housing needs
- projected regional housing needs
® Analysis ofthe factors and circumstances, with all supporting data, of the locality's revision
to the local share ofregional housing needs -when required pursuant to Government Code
Section 65584(c)
® Assessment of local housing needs, including: .
- Analysis of population trends
- Analysis of employment trends
- Documentation of population projections.
- Documentation of employment projections
• Quantification of existing housing needs for all income levels, including the local share of
existing regional housing needs as provided by the council of governments pursuant to
Government Code Section 64484(a)
® Quantification of projected housing needs for all income levels, including the local share
of projected regional housing needs as provided by the council of governments pursuant
to Government Code Section 64484(a)
Household characteristics
® Analysis and documentation of household characteristics,. including: level of payment
compared to ability to pay: the number of very low and lower income households
occupying units at a cost greater than 25 percent of their gross household income; and
comparison of the income distributionof low and moderate income households in the
community to the range of costs of housing units for sale and for.rent in the community
Housing characteristics
- Analysis and documentation of housing characteristics, such as the number of households
living in overcrowded conditions (1.01 or more persons per room)
Housing stock conditions
Analysis and documentation of housing stock conditions, such as the number of
households living in housing units needing rehabilitation or replacement, identified
separately for owner -occupied and renter -occupied units
Resources for meeting existing and projected housing needs
- Inventory of resources relevant to meeting the identified housing needs, including:
- Land suitable -for residential development, including:
- Vacant sites
- Sites having potential for redevelopment
- Inventory of these sites in relation to:
102 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
. CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the -General Plan
. _ . _ ... ...:.. _ _ .... . ...: .... .. ..:.. _ HOUSING ELEMENT
r '<
__ r
F -Facilitating housirig through zoning
- Available public facilities
Available public services .
- Federal, state, and local financingand subsidy programs
- Available financing from the low and moderate -income housing fund, established by the
local redevelopment agency
Constraints on meeting existing and projected housing needs
• Inventory of constraints relevant to meeting the identified housing needs, including:
Housing sites in relation to:
- Zoning constraints
- Public facilities constraints
- Public service constraints
- Potential and actual governmental constraints upon:
- The maintenance of housing for all income levels, including:
Land use controls
- Building codes and their enforcement
Site improvements
- Fees and other exactions required of developers
-: Local processing and permit procedures
- The improvement of housing for all income levels, including:
- Land use controls
- Building codes and their enforcement
`4 - Site improvements
- Fees and other exactions required of developers
- Local processing and permit procedures
- The development of housing for all income levels, including:
- Land use controls
- Building codes and their enforcement
Site improvements .
- Fees and other exactions required of developers
- Local processing and permit procedures
Potential and actual non-governmental constraints upon:
- The maintenance of housing for all income levels, including:
- Availability of financing
- Price of land
- Construction costs
- The improvement of housing for all income levels, including:
- Availability of financing
- Price of land
- Construction costs
The development of housing for all income levels, including:
- Availability of financing
- Price of land
- Construction costs
Identification of regulatory concessions which could reduce or eliminate constraints on
needed housing
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 103
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
• Evaluation of techniques for administering land use and development controls which .
reduce constraints on needed housing F
Special housing needs
• Analysis of any special housing needs such as those of-
The
fThe handicapped
-' The elderly
- Large families
Farmworkers
Families with female heads of households
- Families in need of
- Emergency shelter
- Transitional housing
- Persons in need ofi
- Emergency shelter
- Transitional housing
Residential energy conservation
• Opportunities for energy conservation in the design and construction of individual units
• Opportunities for energy conservation in the design of subdivisions
• Proximity ofproposed residential development to employment centers, retail commercial
uses, schools, transit, and other services
• Identification of incentives facilitating energy conservation
Conversion ofassisted housing units*
• Analysis of assisted housing developments eligible for conversion to uses other than low-
income housing during the next ten years due to termination of subsidy contracts,
mortgage payments, or the expiration of use restrictions. The analysis must include:
- A listing of each development project by name and address**
- The type of governmental assistance received**
- The earliest possible date of change from low-income use**
- The total number ofassisted housing units that could be lost from the locality's housing
stock each year during the ten-year period, with regard to:
- Units for the elderly**
- Units for the.non-elderly**
Replacement of converted assisted housing units*
• The estimated total cost of developing new replacement rental housing comparable in size
and rent level to the convertible units
Preservation ofassisted housing units*
• The estimated cost of preserving assisted housing developments
• Identification ofpublic and private corporations having the legal and managerial capacity
to acquire and manage assisted housing developments
• Identification and consideration of all federal, state, and local financing and subsidy
programs useful in preserving assisted housing for lower income households
• Identification of the amounts offends (under each such program) which could be available
for preserving assisted housing developments
104 GENBUL PLAN GUIDELINES
HOUSING ELEMENT
Promotion of housing oppominrties £or all personss,w,
ata to determine the household characteristics of various areas or
Analyze U.S. Census d ,
f.•:. .f.:+est=..�•-
';-�. neighborhoods in'`the locality ::- >-
Identifythoseareas orneighborho6dswhich havehomogeneoushouseholdcharacteristics
• Determine whether such homogeneous characteristics are the result of or influenced by
local government policies or regulatory activities r
Analyze minimum residential lot size and other standards set forth in the land use element
and in the zoning ordinance to ascertain whether there is an exclusionary effect on persons
with regard to such factors as race, religion, ancestry, national origin, or color
• Consider the analysis of governmental constraints on housing supply
• Determine whether such homogeneous characteristics are the result of or influenced by
nongovernmental actions
• Consider the analysis of nongovernmental constraints on housing supply
• Investigate local covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) to ascertain whether
they produce an exclusionary effectwith regard to such factors as race, religion, ancestry,
national origin, or color
• .Investigate the availability of housing purchase and improvement loans to all persons in
all areas
• Determine whether there are governmental and nongovernmental constraints on the
locality's meeting of its regional share of housing needs for all persons regardless of race,
religion, sex, marital status,' ancestry, national'origin, or color
• Investigate the policies 'and regulations of other jurisdictions that promote housing
=` �r
opportunities for all persons
Survey the literature regarding successful housing programs
• Use the Book ofLists published annually by the Office of Planning and Research to contact
other jurisdictions about their housing programs
• Evaluate alternative techniques for administering land use and development controls
which will encourage the provision of needed housing for all persons
Establish a dialogue with and seek housing needs information from housing advocacy
groups and the local housing authority .
• Ask members of the community for ideas on promoting housing opportunities for all
persons
Coastal zone replacement housing (Gov.C. Sections 65588(c)(d) and 65590(h)(2)) -
applica.ble to jurisdictions which are partially or entirely within the Coastal Zone
• Any housing element review or revision pursuant to Government Code section 65588
should take into account all low or moderate -income housing developed to replace coastal
zone low or moderate -income housing which was: 1) demolished; 2) converted to a
condominium, cooperative, or similar form of ownership; or 3) converted to a nonresi-
dential use. This accounting must include at least:
- The number of new housing units approved for construction within the coastal zone
after January 1, 1982
* The analysis related to assisted housing development shall be adopted as part of the housing element by
January 1, 1992 (Government Code Section 65583(d)).
f `I This cost analysis for replacement housing may be done aggregately for each five-year period and does not
have to contain a project by project cost estimate.
** For the purposes of state and federally funded projects, this analysis need only contain information available
on a statewide basis.
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 105
CHAMR III: 11c Required. Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
- The number of housing units for persons and families of low or moderate income
required to be provided in new housing develop menfs'eitherwithin the coastal zone or
....within three miles of the coastal zone ,
- The number of existing residential dwelling units occupied by persons and families of
low or moderate income that havebeen authorized to be demolished or converted since
January 1, 1982, in the coastal zone
-
- The number -of residential dwelling units forpersonsand families of or moderate
income that have been required for replacement
- The'designation of the location of the replacement units, either on -site, -or elsewhere
within the locality's jurisdiction within the coastal zone, or within three miles of the
coastal zone within the locality's jurisdiction
IDEAS FOR DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
The housing element should contain a statement of development policies, including goals,
quantified objectives, and policies for the preservation, maintenance, improvement, and
development of housing. These policies should address the adequate provision of housing to
meet the locality's existing and projected housing needs. The goals, objectives, and policies
should also direct local decision making with regard to adequate sites for various types of
housing, including rental and manufactured dwelling units.
Many of these policy issues overlap. For example, policies promoting housing for all
economic segments of the community overlap similar directives addressing the replacement
of converted assisted housing units. Furthermore, with regard to adequate housing supply,
the statement ofdeveloprrient policies should address agroup ofsubordinate housing supply
issues, such as those related to governmental constraints and special housing needs. .
The following are ideas fora statement of development policies. The various policy
considerations are listed under those housing element issues (in bold type) identified or
suggested by Government Code Section 65583.
Preservation of housing
• Preservation of
- Housing, including affordable housing
- Assisted housing developments that are eligible to change to non -low-income housing
uses
The administration of land use and development controls to facilitate the preservation of
housing
• The use of incentives to encourage and facilitate the preservation of housing
Maintenance of housing
• Support for the maintenance of housing
• The administration of land use and development controls to, facilitate the maintenance of
housing
• The use of incentives to encourage and facilitate the maintenance of housing
Improvement and conservation of housing, including affordable housing stock
• Support for the improvement and conservation of existing housing for all economic
segments, including affordable housing stock such as:
106 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
HOUSING ELEMENT
Affordable rental housing stock -
Mobilehome parks
- .Manufactured housing (e.g., factory -built housing and mobilehomes)
• The administration -of land use and development controls to facilitate the Improvement
and conservation of housing, including affordable housing `
• The use of incentives to encourage and facilitate the improvement and.conservation of
housing, including affordable housing
Development of housing
• Support for the development of housing
• The administration of land use and development controls to facilitate the development of
housing
• The use of incentives to encourage and facilitate the development of housing
Adequate sites for housing
• The provision of sites in suitable locations and with adequate services . which can
collectively accommodate a range of housing (type, size, and price) meeting the needs of
.all economic segments of the community. Among other things, such policies should
address:
- The criteria for zoning of land for single-family, multiple -family, and mixed-use
residential developments.
- Policies assuring local compliance with the residential zoning requirements of ;Gov-
ernment Code Section 65913. L
- The standards for:
Public facilities serving residential uses
- Public services serving residential uses
- The use of vacant land for housing.
- The use of redeveloped land for housing
-. The criteria for and provision of adequate sites for:
- Housing in general
- Rental housing
- Factory -built housing
- Mobilehomes
- Emergency shelters for families and individuals
- Transitional housing for families and individuals
- Special needs housing
- Amendments to local ordinances'governing conditional use permits, variances, tentative
subdivision maps, parcel maps, etc., to facilitate the provision of adequate sites for
housing
Adequate provision of housing for existing and projected needs, including regional
share, for all economic segments of the community
Housing needs
• The provision of adequate housing accommodating existing and projected housing needs,
including the local share of the region's housing needs, for all economic segments of the
community
Household characteristics
• Local housing programs to assist households in achieving an adequate level of housing
payments relative to the cost of housing
CHAPTER 111: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
Housing characteristics r...
• Reduction and elimination of overcrowded housing
Housing stock condition
• Support for the maintenance of housing .
• Support for the improvement and conservation of dilapidated housing
Resources for meeting existing and projected housing needs
® The availability of
- Public services
- Public services
- Vacant land
- Redeveloped land
• The use oflocal public financing mechanisms to finance public improvements and services
for housing, including, but not limited to:
- Special assessment districts
- Mello -Roos community facilities districts
- Special taxes
- Tax increment financing revenues
- General obligation bonds
- Development impact fees
• The use of federal and state financing and subsidy programs to meet housing needs
• The use of moneys in a low or moderate -income housing fund derived from redevelop
ment financing activities
Constraints on meeting existing and projected housing needs
• Removal of unnecessary governmental constraints on the preservation, . conservation,
improvement, maintenance, and development of housing. Such constraints include:
- Overly restrictive land use controls (e.g., large -lot zoning)
- Overly restrictive building code regulations
- Excessive site improvements
- Expensive fees and other exactions required of developers
- Red tape in the administration of land use and development controls
• Zoning ordinance amendments necessary to remove unwarranted constraints on the
preservation, conservation, maintenance, improvement, and development ofhousing for
all economic levels of households with regard to local housing needs and the locality's
regional share of housing demand
• Special regulatory concessions further reducing or eliminating constraints on the pres-
ervation, conservation, maintenance, improvement, and development ofhousing to meet
housing needs, including special housing needs
• Public service improvements necessary to remove unwarranted constraints on the
preservation, conservation, maintenance, improvement, and development of housing for
all economic levels of households with regard to local housing needs and the locality's
regional share of housing demand
• Public facilities improvements. necessary to remove unwarranted constraints on the
preservation, conservation, maintenance, improvement, and development of housing for
all economic levels of households with regard to local housing needs and the locality's
regional share of housing demand
• Removal of potential and actual nongovernmental constraints upon the maintenance,
108 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
HOUSING ELEMENT
improvement, or development of housing for all income levels Such construnts might .
include
The lack of available financing r<
High land prices
High'co 'costs
- Discrimination in the provision of housing based on race, religion, sex, marital status,
ancestry, national origin, or color
Special housing needs
Housing which meets the special needs, including the needs of-
- The handicapped
- The elderly
- Large families
- Farmworkers
- Families with female heads of households
- Families in need o
= Emergency shelter
- Transitional housing
- Persons in need of
- Emergency shelter
- Transitional housing
• Standards for evaluating the suitability of individual sites for low and moderate -income
(non -'market -rate) housing
•_ Criteria for second dwelling units and granny flats
Residential energy conservation
• Energy conservation features in new and existing housing
• Land use"controls encouraging energy conservation (such. as solar orientation of subdi-
vision lots -see Gov -C.. Section 66473.1)
• The use of incentives encouraging energy conservation
Conversion of assisted. housing units*
• Appropriate and inappropriate conversions of assisted housing units
Replacement of converted assisted housing units*
• The application of private, local, state, and federal financing mechanisms to fund the
replacement of converted assisted housing units
Preservation of assisted housing units*
• The application of private; local, state, and federal financing mechanisms to fund the
preservation of assisted housing units
Promotion of housing opportunities for all persons
• Creation of the position of local ombudsman to further public and .private sector
compliance with local, state, and federal equal housing opportunity laws
• The elimination of exclusionary standards from local land use regulations and policies
• The administration of land use and development controls in'a way that provides housing
opportunities for all persons
* Matters related to assisted. housing units must be discussed in the housing element by January 1, 1992
(Government Code Section 65583(d)).
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 109
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General flan
HOUSING ELEMENT
®: Equitable provision of housing-related.public�services regardless of race; religion, sex,
marital status, ancestry, national origin, or color ..
Coastal zone replacement housing
® The provision of coastal zone replacement housing pursuant to Government Code
Section 65590
IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING PROGRAMS
To meet needs and implement policies, the housing element must include a five-year
schedule of current and proposed implementation measures and identify the agencies or
officials responsible for implementation (Government Code Section 65583(c)).
The following examples illustrate the kinds of actions local governments'may take to carry
out the policies of their housing elements. These include programs that are statutorily
required by housing element law, actions that are mandated by other laws, and other
measures which are not mandated, but which may nevertheless address a particular program
area.
Adequate sites for housing
Adequate sites for housing means sites that will be available for a variety of housing types to
meet the housing needs of all household income levels. Such sites include land that will be
available for rental housing, factory -built housing, mobilehomes, emergency shelters, and
transitional housing. The housing element's program of implementation actions should:
• Identify sites that:
Are or will be appropriately zoned for various housing types, including areas zoned
pursuant to Government Code Section 65913.1
- Meet or will meet development standards, appropriate for various housing types
- Have or will have public services and facilities needed to facilitate and encourage these
various housing types
• Specify measures in the administration of land use and development controls that will
accommodate thest. various housing types. The administration of zoning for example
includes the processing, approval, and enforcement ofconditional use permits and zoning
variances. Other measures might include:
Inventorying surplus public lands, including sites owned by federal, state and local
agencies to identify suitable sites for the development of low and moderate income
housing
Designating housing opportunity sites where a minimum percentage of new housing
units must be affordable to low and moderate income households
- Establishing and utilizing a municipal housing finance agency
Describe the regulatory .incentives and concessions that will be used to facilitate and
encourage these various housing types. These might include:
- A program to acquire land and sell it at a discounted price to developers of low and
moderate income housing
- Designating neighborhoods for concentrated housing rehabilitation assistance and
public facility improvements
- Offering public improvements or reduced impact fees to projects which provide low -
110 GENERAL PIAN GUIDELINES
HOUSING ELEMENT
and moderate -income housing
f
.:�. •Identify the agencies and officials responsible for: 1) residential zoning and development
standards, 2) public services and facilities that serve housing, 3) the administration of land
use controls, and 4) regulatory incentives and concessions.
• Establish and describe a five year schedule for carrying out each of these'actions relative
adequate sites for housing
• Identify the means by which consistency will be achieved with other general plan elements
and community goals
Assistance in the development of housing for low and moderate income households
• Identify measures which the local government intends to undertake or facilitate that will
assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of low and moderate -
income households. Such measures could include:
- Regulatory incentives, such as density bonuses exceeding the state requirements
- Zoning ordinance provisions for development of second residential units on existing
lots
- Mixed-use zoning districts to encourage combining residential with other uses
Zoning ordinance provisions for mobilehome subdivisions and mobilehome parks
- A linkage program that requires developers of industrial and commercial projects to
contribute to the development of affordable housing (e.g., sites, units, fees) for
employees and/or other low income households
- Development agreements that guarantee the availability of below-market priced homes
in the project
Residential design that promotes energy conservation.
- Federally funded programs for the construction and rehabilitation of housing, such as:
- Section 202 Direct Loans for Elderly or Handicapped Housing
- Section 502 - Rural Home Ownership Assistance <
- Section 515 - Rural Rental Housing Assistance
- State funded programs for the construction and rehabilitation of housing such as:
- Family Housing Demonstration Program (HCD)
- Home Mortgage Purchase Program (California Housing Finance Agency) (CHFA)
- Predevelopment Loan Program (HCD)
Rental Housing Construction Program (HCD)
- Rental Housing Mortgage Loan Program (CHFA)
- Self -Help Housing (CHFA & HCD - note: HCD's program provides technical
assistance and development assistance; CHFA's program provides purchase mort-
gages)
- AB 665 (1982) Bonds - renter -occupied construction
- California Indian Assistance Program (HCD)
- Funds authorized by the Marks -Foran Residential Rehabilitation Act and SB 99 -
New Construction
• Utilize the required 20% set aside of redevelopment agency tax increment revenues to
finance low and moderate income housing (Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund)
• Provide density bonuses and other incentives to developers who include units affordable
I. to low- or very low-income households, or for senior households
• Identify of the agencies and officials responsible for administering these measures
• Establish and describe a.five-year schedule for implementing -assistance in the develop-
ment of adequate housing
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 111
CHAPTER III: The Required Elements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
• Identify the means by which consistency will be achieved with other general plan elements f"r
and community -goals ;
Removal of governmental constraints
• Describe a program which the local government intends to use in systematically removing
governmental constraints on the maintenance, improvement, and development of
housing, where appropriate and legally possible. Removal of constraints might involve:
- Changes in the administration of land use and development controls that facilitate and
encourage the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing
- Reduction in permit requirements for projects providing low- and moderate -income
housing.
- Holding pre -application conferences and administering the local review process to
streamline permit processing for developments that include low and moderate cost
units.
- Establishing a single administrative unit to coordinate processing of multiple permits
for residential developments
- Participating in the Rural Development Assistance Program (HCD) to reduce gov-
ernmental constraints by obtaining water and wastewater project loans and grants
• Allow manufactured homes on permanent foundation systems to be installed on all single-
family zoned lots under the same approval process as for site -built homes
• Identify the agencies and officials responsible for the removal of each of the identified
governmental constraints on housing
• Establish and describe a five-year schedule for removing governmental constraints
• Identifythe means bywhich consistencywill be achieved with othergeneral plan elements
and community goals
Conservation and improvement of the condition of affordable housing stock
Identify and describe the actions which the local government will undertake or facilitate
in conserving and improving the condition of the existing affordable housing stock. Such
measures could include:
- Federal financing and subsidy programs, such as-
- Housing and Community Development Act Block Grants (entitlement grants for
cities and urban counties)
- Section 17 - Rental Housing Rehabilitation
- Section 312 - Rehabilitation Loans
- State Financing and subsidy programs, such as:
- California Energy Conservation Rehabilitation Program (formerly known as the
PVEA Program)
- California Housing Rehabilitation Program Owner and Rental Components
(HCD)
- Deferred Payment Rehabilitation Loan Fund (HCD)
- Home Ownership Mortgage Bond Program (CHFA)
- Home Ownership Assistance Program (HCD)
- Home Purchase Assistance Program (CHFA)
- Matching Down Payment Program (CHFA)
- Natural Disaster Assistance Program - Owner and Rental Components (HCD)
- Nonprofit Housing Program (CHFA)
Rental Housing Mortgage Loan Program (CHFA)
112 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
HOUSING ELEMENT
- 'State Earthquake Rehabilitation Assistance Program (HCP)
k.,
State Rental Rehabilitation.Program (HCD)
State Legalization Impact Assistance Grant Program (HCD)
- State/Local MultifamilyProgram (CHFA)
- Local financing and subsidy programs, such as:
- Municipal Housing Finance Agency
- Marks -Foran Residential Rehabilitation Act and SB 99 - New Construction
- AB 1355 (1980) Bonds - owner -occupied construction
- AB 3507-0982) Bonds - Cal -First Home Buyers Program (CHFA)
- SB 1149 (198 1) Bonds - employee housing for public entities
- Offering regulatory incentives to projects which rehabilitate existing housing
- Enacting an ordinance regulating demolition of housing units and conversion of
housing units to other uses (e.g., office, commercial)
- Establishing an, equity -sharing program to provide affordable home ownership or
rental housing opportunities for low and moderate income households
- Establishing a house sharing program to match housing suppliers with those seeking
special housing accommodations (e.g., elderly)
- Establishing a local housing authority or nonprofit development corporation to
develop and operate low and moderate income housing
- Encouraging the development of cooperative housing projects to allow low and
moderate income households to enjoy the benefits of home ownership
- Enacting an ordinance requiring replacement of housing units demolished due to
public or private action
`= - Changing the administration of land use and development controls
- Rehabilitating residential hotels for very low and low income households
Undertaking a program to enforce building and housing codes, financed in part with
proceeds from denial of state tax benefits to code violators*
Enacting an occupancy ordinance requiring pre -sale code inspection and compliance
before title to the property is transferred
• Identify the agencies and officials responsible for implementing the various actions
• Establish and describe a five-year schedule for implementing each of the actions under-
taken by the local government to conserve and improve the condition of the existing
affordable housing stock
• Identify the means bywhich consistency will be achieved with other general plan elements
and community goals
Promotion of housing opportunities for all persons
• Describe actions which the local government is undertaking or intends to undertake to
promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex, marital
status, national origin, or color. Such actions might include:
- Establishing a fair housing council to promote equal housing opportunities.
- Distributing fair housing information and referring housing complaints to the local fair
housing office.
- Discouraging redlining practices in lending and insurance underwriting by withdraw-
ing local funds from, or ceasing business relationships with, institutions that discriminate.
- Establishing open housing programs, such as affirmative marketing, to expand housing
opportunities for low income and minority households.
GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES 113
-r,^•:.i-'*,�."_ �.: Ta _
c. �
CHAPTER ]CII: The Required Flements of the General Plan
HOUSING ELEMENT
- Translation of permit instructions into a commonly'and locally used foreign language"
- Participation instate programs designedtopromote housing opportunities for typically
ill -housed groups, such as:"
- California Indian Assistance Program (HCD) >'
- Community Development Block Grant Program (State -administered, for small
cities) (HCD)
- Emergency Shelter Program (HCD)
- Farmworker Housing Grant Program (HCD)
- Federal Emergency Shelter Grants Program (HCD)
- Housing Assistance Program (State -administered Section 8) (HCD)
- Matching Down Payment Program (CHFA)
Natural Disaster Assistance Program - Owner and Rental Components (HCD)
- Nonprofit Housing Program (CHFA)
Office of Migrant Services (HCD - operates housing for farmworkers)
Permanent Housing for the Handicapped Homeless (HCD)
Senior Citizen Shared Housing Program (HCD)
As part of this description, identify the agencies and officials responsible for each such
action
Establish and describe a five-year schedule of each local government activity related to the
promotion of housing opportunities for all persons
Identify the means by which consistency will be achieved with other general plan elements
and community goals
Preservation of assisted housing for lower-income households*
A program to preserve foi lower income households of the assisted housing developments
identified pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a) of Government Code section 65583.
(See the preceding "Ideas for Data and Analysis.") The program shall utilize all available
federal, state, and local financing and subsidy programs identified in paragraph (8) of
subdivision (a) ofsection 65583, exceptwhere acommunity has other urgent needs forwhich
alternative funding sources are unavailable.
• Possible financing and subsidy sources might include:
- Federal financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Rent Assistance Programs (e.g., conventional public housing, Section 8 vouchers)
- State financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Deferred Payment Rehabilitation Loan Fund (HCD)
- Farmworker Housing Grant Program (HCD)
- Mobilehome Park Assistance Program (HCD)
- Matching Down Payment Program (CHFA)
- Natural Disaster Assistance Program - Owner and Rental Components (HCD)
- Nonprofit Housing Program (CHFA)
- Rental Security Deposit Guarantee Demonstration Program (HCD)
- State Legalization Impact Assistance Program (HCD)
- Local financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Tax Increment Financing through the California Community redevelopment Law
*The program for preserving assisted housing development shall be adopted in the housing element by january
1, 1992 (Government Code Section 65583(d)).
114 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
f
- Translation of permit instructions into a commonly'and locally used foreign language"
- Participation instate programs designedtopromote housing opportunities for typically
ill -housed groups, such as:"
- California Indian Assistance Program (HCD) >'
- Community Development Block Grant Program (State -administered, for small
cities) (HCD)
- Emergency Shelter Program (HCD)
- Farmworker Housing Grant Program (HCD)
- Federal Emergency Shelter Grants Program (HCD)
- Housing Assistance Program (State -administered Section 8) (HCD)
- Matching Down Payment Program (CHFA)
Natural Disaster Assistance Program - Owner and Rental Components (HCD)
- Nonprofit Housing Program (CHFA)
Office of Migrant Services (HCD - operates housing for farmworkers)
Permanent Housing for the Handicapped Homeless (HCD)
Senior Citizen Shared Housing Program (HCD)
As part of this description, identify the agencies and officials responsible for each such
action
Establish and describe a five-year schedule of each local government activity related to the
promotion of housing opportunities for all persons
Identify the means by which consistency will be achieved with other general plan elements
and community goals
Preservation of assisted housing for lower-income households*
A program to preserve foi lower income households of the assisted housing developments
identified pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a) of Government Code section 65583.
(See the preceding "Ideas for Data and Analysis.") The program shall utilize all available
federal, state, and local financing and subsidy programs identified in paragraph (8) of
subdivision (a) ofsection 65583, exceptwhere acommunity has other urgent needs forwhich
alternative funding sources are unavailable.
• Possible financing and subsidy sources might include:
- Federal financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Rent Assistance Programs (e.g., conventional public housing, Section 8 vouchers)
- State financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Deferred Payment Rehabilitation Loan Fund (HCD)
- Farmworker Housing Grant Program (HCD)
- Mobilehome Park Assistance Program (HCD)
- Matching Down Payment Program (CHFA)
- Natural Disaster Assistance Program - Owner and Rental Components (HCD)
- Nonprofit Housing Program (CHFA)
- Rental Security Deposit Guarantee Demonstration Program (HCD)
- State Legalization Impact Assistance Program (HCD)
- Local financing and subsidy sources, such as:
- Tax Increment Financing through the California Community redevelopment Law
*The program for preserving assisted housing development shall be adopted in the housing element by january
1, 1992 (Government Code Section 65583(d)).
114 GENERAL PLAN GUIDELINES
HUUMiN46 r.LUMt.N 1
- The program may address .local regulatory strategies.- For example, the program.
might call for:
- Regulatory concessions
- Regulatory incentives
- Modifications to the administration of land use and development controls that
facilitate the preservation of assisted housing for lower income households
• The program may address local strategies for providing technical assistance
• The program shall identify the agencies and officials responsible for each of the actions
undertaken to preserve such assisted housing
• The program shall establish and describe a five-year schedule for each ofthe actions involve
in preserving assisted housing.
• Identifythe means bywhich consistencywill be achievedwith othergeneral plan elements
and community goals.
Public participation
The local government must make a diligent effort to achieve public participation of all
economic segments. of the community in the development of the housing element. The
program of actions for implementing the housing element shall describe these public
participation efforts.
This effortcould include public hearings at the planning commission and government body
level, a citizens' advisory group to assist in development of the element, circulation of draft
elements to housing i n teres t gro ups, and special advertising and outreach measures to inform
t r citizens of all economic segments about the process.
Technical Assistance
The following state agencies may provide information or assistance for the preparation of the
housing element: Business, Transportation and Housing Agency; California Coastal
Commission; General Services; Department of Housing and Community Development,
California Housing Finance Agency; and Office of Planning and Research.
GENERAL PLAN, GUIDELINES 115
The Planning and .Zoning Law
65585. (a) In the preparation of its housing element, each *** city and county shall consider the
departmentpursuantto Section 50459 of theHealth and Safety Code. ***
Housing element
guidelines
guidelines adopted by the
Those guidelines shall be advisory to each *** city or county in the preparation of its housing
element.
(b) At least 90 days prior to adoption of the housing element, or at least 45 days prior to the
HCD review
adoption of an amendment to this element, the planning agency *** shall submit a draft of the
to the departmenLIbedepartmentshallreview*** thedraft*** andreport
elementor amendment
its written findings to the planning agency within 90 days of its receipt of the draft in the case of
an adoption *** or within 45 days of its receipt *** in the case of *** a draft amendment. ***
the department may consult with any public agency,
HCD consultation
(c) In the preparation of its findings,
group, or person. The department shall receive and consider any written comments from any
public agency, group, or person regarding the draft or adopted element or amendment under
review.
(d) In its written findings, thedepartmentshalldeterminewhetherthedraftelementordraft
Substantial
compliance
amendment substantially complies with the requirements of this article.
(e) Prior to the adoption of its draft element or draft amendment, the legislative body shall
consider the findings made by the department. If the department's findings are not available
Local consideration
within the time limits set by this section, the legislative body may act without them.
draft or draft amendment does not substantially
Local actions
(f) If the department finds that the element
comply with the requirements of this article, the legislative body shall take one of the following
actions:
(1) Change the draft element or draft amendment to substantially comply with the
requirements of this article.
(2) Adopt the draft element or draft amendment without changes. The legislative body shalt
include in its resolution of adoption written findings which explain the reasons the legislative
draft amendment substantially complies with the
body believes that the draft element or
requirements of this article despite the findings of the department.
(g) Promptly following the adoption of its element or amendment, the planning agency shall
Copy to HCD
submit a copy to the department.
(h) The department shall, within 120 days, review adopted housing elements or amendments
HCD Is report
and report its findings to the planning agency.
1983, Ch. 1250. EffectiveJanuary 1,1984; Amended byStats.1984, Ch. 1009;
(Amended by Stats.
Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1441.)
65586. Local governments shall conform their housing elements to the provisions of this article on or
Deadline for adoption
before October 1, 1981. Jurisdictions with housing elements adopted before October 1, 1981, in
adopted by the Department of Housing and
conformity with the housing element guidelines
Community Development on December 7,1977, and located in Subchapter 3 (commencing with
Section 6300) of Chapter 6 of Part 1 of Title 25 of the California Administrative Code [repealed in
1982], shall be deemed in compliance with this article as of its effective date. A locality with a
found to be adequate by the department before October 1,1981, shall be deemed
housing element
in conformity with these guidelines.
(Added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1143.)
65587. (a) Each city, county, or city and county shall bring its housing element, as required by
Deadline extension
subdivision (c) of Section 65302, into conformity with the requirements of this article on or before
October 1, 1981, and the deadlines set by Section 65588. Except as specifically provided in
subdivision (b) of Section 65361, the Director of Planning and Research shall not grant an
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws • 45
The Planning and Zoning Law
46 a The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws
extension of time from these requirements.
Judicial standard of
(b) Any action brought by any interested party to review the conformity with the provisions of
review
this article of any housing element or portion thereof or revision thereto shall be brought pursuant
to Section 1085 of the Code of Civil Procedure, thecourt's review of compliance with theprovisions
of this article shall extend to whether the housing element or portion thereof or revision thereto
substantially complies with the requirements of this article.
Enforcement of
(c) If a court finds that an action of a city, county, or city and county, which is required to be
compliance with
consistent with its general plan, does not comply with its housing element, the city, county, or city
judicial action
and county shall bring its action into compliance within 60 days. However, the court shall retain
jurisdiction throughout the period for compliance to enforce its decision. Upon the court's
determination that the 60 -day period for compliance would place an undue hardship on the city,
county, or city and county, the court may extend the time period for compliance by an additional
60 days.
(Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1009; Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1441.)
Note: Stats. 1984, Ch.1009, also reads:
UncodVied policy
SEC. 44. It is the intent of the Legislature that the term "substantially complies," as used in
subdivision (b) ofSection 65587, be given the sameinterpretationas was given thatterm by thecourt
in Camp v. Board of Supervisors, 123 Cal.App.3d 334, 348.
Policy.
65587.1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares that local policies and programs which increase
increasing housing
housing opportunities through a tax-exempt revenue bond program or through a requirement that
opportunities
the approval of a housing related project be tied to the provision of assistance for housing are
consistentwith the intent of this article. TheLegislaturefurtherfinds and declares that actions which
have the effect of impeding or halting such policies and programs or the direct production of housing
run contrary to the goals of increased housing opportunities and balanced commercial and
residential development embodied in this article.
(b) Notwithstanding any otherprovision of law, neithera mortgagerevenuebondprogram subject
to subdivision (b) of Section 52053.5 of the Health and Safety Code nor a local approval, made prior
to May 1, 1983, of a housing related project shall be invalidated due to the failure or alleged failure
of a city and county to comply
with this article, subdivision (c) of Section 65302 of the Government
Code, or any regulations or guidelines adopted pursuant thereto, or any other provision of law
requiring or claimed to require consistency with the housing element of a local general plan. For
purposes of this section, a "housing related project" means (a) a residential project or (b) a
nonresidential project, the local approval of which was conditioned upon the nonresidential
developer (1) developing orrehabilitating or causing to be developed orrehabilitated housing units,
or (2) providing funds for the development or rehabilitation of housing units, or (3) investing in a
mortgage revenue bond program subject to subdivision (b) of Section 52053.5 of the Health and
Safety Code, under a formula or guidelines adopted by the planning commission or local governing
body of the city and county. For purposes of this section, "housing relatedproject" shall not include
a project, the construction or development of which requires either the demolition or conversion of
low- or moderate -rental residential units and the local approval of which does not provide for the
replacement of such units and for the maintenance in such units of rents affordable to low- and
moderate -income persons for a period of not less than 20 years.
(Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 312. Effective June 28, 1982.)
Periodic review and
65588. (a) Each local government shall review its housing element as frequently as appropriate to
revision
evaluate all of the following:
(1) The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the
attainment of the state housing goal.
(2) The effectiveness of the housing element in attainment of the community's housing goals and
objectives.
(3) The progress of the city, county, or city and county in implementation of the housing element.
Deadlines for
(b) The housing element shall be revised as appropriate, but not less than every five years, to
completing housing
reflect the results of this periodic review.
element revisions
In order to facilitate effective review by the department of housing elements, local governments
following shall prepare and adopt the first two revisions of their housing elements no later than the ` ..
dates specified in the following schedule, notwithstanding the date of adoption of the housing
46 a The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws
The Planning and Zoning Law
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws - 47
elements in existence on the effective date of the act which amended this section during the 1983-
841 of
Local gossion
vernments within the regional jurisdiction of the Southern California Association of
Governments: July 1,1984, for the first revision. and July 1,1989,.for the second revision. ,
_ ,.- (2)Localgovemmentswithin theregional jurisdictionoftheAssociationofBayAreaGovernments:
January 1;1985, for the first revision, and July 1, 1990, for the second revision.
. (3)Localgoven mentswithintheregionaljudsdictionoftheSanDiegoAssociationofGovernments,
the Council of Fresno County Governments, the Kern County Council of Governments, the
Sacramento Council of Governments, and the Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments:
July 1. 1985, for the first revision, and July 1, 1991, for the second revision.
. (4) All other local governments: January 1, 1986, for the first revision, and July 1, 1992, for the
second revision.
11 (5) Subsequent revisions shall be completed not less often than at five-year intervals following
the second revision.
(c) The review and revision of housing elements required by this section shall.take into account
any low-. or moderate -income housing which has been provided or required pursuant to Section
65590.
(d) Thereview pursuant to subdivision (c) shall include, butneed not be limited to, the following:
(1) The. number of new housing units approved for construction within the coastal zone after
January 1, 1982.
(2) The number of housing units for persons and families of low or moderate income, as defined
in Section 50093 of the Health. and Safety Code, required to be provided in "new housing
developments either within the coastal zone or within three miles of the coastal zone pursuant to
Section 65590.
-(3) The number of existing residential dwelling units occupied by persons and families of low or
moderate income, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, that have been
..authorized to be demolished or converted since January 1, 1982, in the coastal zone.
(4) The number of residential dwelling units for persons and families of low or moderate income,
as defined in Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, that have been required for replacement
or authorized to be converted or demolished as identified in paragraph (3). The location of the
replacement units, eitheronsite, elsewhere within the locality's jurisdiction within the coastal zone,
or within three miles of the coastal zone within the locality's jurisdiction, shall be designated in the
review.
(Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 208. Effective June 20,1984.)
65589. (a) Nothing in this article shall require a city, county, or city and county to do any of the
Legal effect
following:
(1) Expend local revenues for the construction of housing, housing subsidies, or land acquisition.
(2) Disapprove any residential development which is consistent with the general plan.
(b) Nothing in this article shall be construed to be a grant of authority or a repeal of any authority
which -may exist of a local government to impose rent controls or restrictions on the sale of real
property.
(c) Nothing in this article shall be construed to be a grant of authority or a repeal of any authority
which may exist of alocal government with respect to measures that maybe undertaken or required
by a local government to be undertaken to implement the housing element of the local general plan.
(d) The provisions of this article shall be construed consistent with, and in promotion of, the
statewide goal of a sufficient supply of decent housing to meet the needs of all Californians.
(Added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1143.)
65589.31nany action filed on or after January 1, 1991, taken to challenge the validity of a housing
Rebuttable
element, there shall be a rebuttable presumption of the validity of the element or amendment
presumption
if, pursuant to Section 65585, the department has found that the element or amendment
substantially complies with the requirements of this article.
(Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1441.)
65589.5. (a) The Legislature finds all of the following:
Legislative findings
'
(1) The lack of affordable housing is a critical problem -which threatens the economic,
environmental, and social quality of life in California.
(2) California housing has become the most expensive in the nation. The excessive cost of the
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws - 47
The Planning and Zoning Law
48 - The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws
state's housing supply is partially caused by activities and policies of many local governments -
which limit the approval of affordable housing, increase the cost of land for affordable,
housing, and require that high fees and exactions be paid by producers of potentially
affordable housing.
(3) Among the consequences of those actions are discrimination against low-income and
minority households, lack of housing to support employment growth, imbalance in jobs and
housing, reduced mobility, urban sprawl, excessive commuting, and air quality deterioration.
(4) Many local governments do not give adequate attention to the economic, environmental, -
and social costs of decisions which result in disapproval of affordable housing projects,
reduction in density of affordable housing projects, and excessive standards for affordable
housing projects.
State policy
(b) It is the policy of the state that a local government not rejector make infeasible affordable
housing developments which contribute to meeting the housing need determined pursuant to
this article without a thorough analysis of the economic, social, and environmental effects of
the action and without meeting the provisions of subdivision (c).
Prime agricultural
(c) The Legislature also recognizes that premature and unnecessary development of
lands policy
agricultural lands to urban uses continues to have adverse effects on the availability of such
lands for food and fiber production and on the economy of the state. Furthermore, it is the
policy of the state that development should be guided away from prime agricultural lands;
therefore, in implementing this section, local jurisdictions should encourage, to the maximum
extent practicable, in filling existing urban areas.
Findings when
(d) A local agency shall not disapprove a housing development project affordable to low -
housing projects are
and moderate -income households or condition approval in a manner which renders the
prohibited
project infeasible for development for the use of low- and moderate -income households unless
it finds, based upon substantial evidence, one of the following:
(1) The jurisdiction has adopted a housing element pursuant to this article and the
development project is not needed for the jurisdiction to meet its share of the regional housing
need of low-income housing.
(2) The development project as proposed would have a specific, adverse impact upon the
public health or safety, and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the
specific adverse impact without rendering the development unaffordable to low- and mod-
erate -income households.
(3) The denial of the project or imposition of conditions is required in order to comply with
specific state or federal law, and there is no feasible method to comply without rendering the
development unaffordable to low- and moderate -income households.
(4) Approval of the development project would increase the concentration of lower income
households in a neighborhood that already has a disproportionately high number of lower
income households and there is no feasible method of approving the development ata different
site, including those sites identified pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section
65583, without rendering the development unaffordable to low -and moderate -income
households.
(5) The development project is proposed on land zoned for agriculture or resource
preservation which is surrounded on at least two sides by land being used for agricultural or
resource preservation purposes, or which, does not have adequate water or wastewater
facilities to serve the project.
(6) The development project is inconsistent with the jurisdiction's general plan land use
designation as specified in any element of the general plan as it existed on the date the
application was deemed complete, and the jurisdiction has adopted a housing element
pursuant to this article.
Compliance with
(e) Nothing is this section shall be construed to relieve the local agency from complying with
other statutes
the provisions of the Congestion Management Program required by Chapter 2.6 (commencing
with Section 65088) of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code or the provisions of the
California Coastal Act, Division 20 (commencing with Section 30000) of the Public Resources
Code. Neither shall anything in this section be construed to relieve the local agency from
making one or more of the findings required pursuant to Section 21081 of the Public Resources
Code or otherwise complying with the California Environmental Quality Act, Divisions 13
(commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code.
48 - The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws
W4
UM
40,
The Planning and Zoning Law
1(f) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a local agency from requiring the Localpolicies and
development project to comply with development standards and policies'appropriate to and - exactions
consistent with meeting the quantified objectives relative to the devilonment of housing; as
required in the housing element pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 65583. Nor-shall
anything in this section be construed to prohibit a local agency froML imposing fees and other
exactions otherwise authorized by law which are essential to provide necessary public services
and facilities to the development project.
(g) This section shall be applicable to charter cities, because the Legislature rinds that the
lack of affordable housing is a critical statewide problem.:
(h) The following definitions apply for the purposes of this section:
(1) "Feasible" means capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a
reasonable period of time taking into account economic, environmental, social, and techno-
logical factors.
(2) "Affordable to low- and moderate -income households,' means at least 20 percent of the
total units shall be sold or rented to lower income households, as defined in Section 50079.5
of the Health and Safety Code, and the remaining units shall be sold or rented to either lower
income households or persons and families of moderate income as defined in Section 50093 of
the Health and Safety Code. Housing units targeted for lower income households shall be
made available at a monthly housing cost that does not exceed 30 percent of 60 percent of area
median income with adjustments for household size made in accordance with the adjustment
factors on which the lower income eligibility limits are based. Housing units targeted for
persons and families of moderate income shall be made available at a monthly housing cost
that does not exceed 30 percent of 100 percent of area median income with adjustments for
household size made in accordance with the adjustment factors on which the moderate income
eligibility limits are based: "Area median income" shall mean area median income as
periodically established by the Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant
to Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code. The developer shall provide sufficient legal
commitments to ensure continued availability of units for the lower income households in
accordance with the provisions of this subdivision for 30 years.
(3) "neighborhood" means a planning area commonly identified as such in a community's
planning documents, and identified as a neighborhood by the individuals residing and
working within the neighborhood. . Documentation demonstrating that the area meets the
definition of neighborhood may include a map prepared for planning purposes which lists the
name and boundaries of the neighborhood.
(i) If any city, county, or city and county denies approval or imposes restrictions, including
a reduction of allowable densities or the percentage of a lot which may be occupied by a
building or structure under the applicable planning and zoning in force at the time the
application is deemed complete pursuant to Section 65943, which have a substantial adverse
effect on the viability or affordability of a housing development affordable to low- and
moderate -income households,and the denial ofthe developmentor theimposition of restrictions
on the development is the subject of a court action which challenges the denial, then the burden
of proof shall be on the local legislative body to show that its decision is consistent with the
findings as described in subdivision (c).
(j) When a proposed housing development project complies with the applicable general plan,
zoning, and development policies in effect at the time that the housing development project's
application is determined to be complete, but the local agency proposes to disapprove the project
or to approve it upon the condition that the project be developed at a lower density, the local agency
shall base its decision regarding the proposed housing development project upon written findings
supported by substantial evidence on the record that both of the i following conditions exist: .
, *** (1) The housing development project would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public
health or safety unless the project is disapproved or approved upon the condition that the project be
developed at a lower density.
*** (2) There is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the adverse impact identified
pursuant to paragraph (1), other than the disapproval of the housing development project or
the approval of the project upon the condition that it be developed at a lower density.
(Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 1438; Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1439.)
Charter cities
Definitions
Burden of proof
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws * 49
The Planning and Zoning Law
Action to challenge 65589.6. In any action taken to challenge the validity of a decision by a city, county, or cityand county
validi(y. of project -to disapprove aprojector approve aproject upon the condition that it be developed ata lower density
approval/disapproval pursuant to Section 65589.5, the city, county, or city and, countyshall-bear the burden of proof that
its decision has conformed to all of the conditions specified in Section 65589.5
(Added by Stats:1984, Ch. 1104.)
Affordable housing 65589.8. A local government which adopts a requirement in its housing element that a housing
development contain a fixed percentage of affordable housing units; shall permit a developer to
satisfy all or a piirtion of thatrequirement by constructingrental housing ataffordable monthlyrents,
as determined by the local government.
Nothing in this section shallbeconstrued to expand or contract the a uthority ofa local government
to adopt an ordinance, charter amendment, or policy requiring that any housing development
contain a fixed percentage of affordable housing units.
(Added by Stats. 1983, Ch. 787.)
Article 10.7. Low- and Moderate -Income Housing Within the Coastal Zone
Requirements for 65590. (a) In addition to the requirements of Article 10.6 (commencing with Section 65580), the
housing provisions and requirements of this section shall apply within the coastal zone as defined and
delineated in Division 20 (commencing with Section 30000) of the Public Resources Code. Each
respective local government shall comply with the requirements of this section in that portion of its
jurisdiction which is located within the coastal zone.
Replacement housing (b) The conversion or demolition of existing residential dwelling units occupied by persons and
families of low ormoderate income, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health andSafetyCode, shall
not be authorized unless provision has been made for the replacement of those dwelling units with
units for persons and families of low or moderate income. Replacement dwelling units shall be
located within the same city or county as the dwelling units proposed to be converted ordemolished.
The replacement dwelling units shall be located on the site of the converted or demolished structure
or elsewhere within the coastal zone if feasible, or, if location on the site or elsewhere within the
coastal zone is not feasible, they shall be located within three miles of the coastal zone. The
replacement dwelling units shall be provided and available for use within three years from the date
upon which work commenced on the conversion or demolition of the residential dwelling unit. In
the event that an existing residential dwelling unit is occupied by more than one person or family,
the provisions of this subdivision shall apply if at least one such person or family, excluding any
dependents thereof, is of low or moderate income.
Forpurposes of this subdivision, a residential dwelling unit shall be deemed occupied by aperson
or family of low or moderate income if the person or family was evicted from that dwelling unit
within one yearprior to the filing of an application to convert ordemolish the unit and if the eviction
was for the purpose of avoiding the requirements of this subdivision. If a substantial number of
persons or families of low or moderate income were evicted from a single residential development
within one year prior to the filing of an application to convert or demolish that structure, the evictions
shall bepresumed to have been for the purpose of avoiding the requirements of this subdivision and
the applicant for the conversion or demolition shall bear the burden of proving that the evictions
were not for the purpose of avoiding the requirements of this subdivision.
The requirements of this subdivision for replacement dwelling units shall not apply to the
following types of conversion or demolition unless the local government determines that replacement
of all or any portion of the converted or demolished dwelling units is feasible, in which event
replacement dwelling units shall be required:
(1) The conversion ordemolition of aresidential structure which contains less than three dwelling
units, or, in the event that a proposed conversion or demolition involves more than one residential
structure, the conversion or demolition of 10 or fewer dwelling units.
(2) The conversion or demolition of a residential structure for purposes of a nonresidential use
which is either "coastal dependent," as defined in Section 30101 of the Public Resources Code, or
"coastal related," as definedin Section 30101.3 of thePublic Resources Code. However, the coastal -
dependent or coastal -related use shall be consistent with the provisions of the land use plan portion
of the local government's local coastal program which has been certified as provided in Section
30512 of the Public Resources Code. Examples of coastal -dependent or coastal -related uses
50 o The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws
The Planning and Zoning Law
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws - 51
:include, but are not limited to, visitor -serving commercial or recreational facilities, coastal -
r. dependent industry, or boating:or harbor facilities.
(3) The conversion or demolition of aresidential structure located within the jurisdiction of a local
��.
government which has within the area encompassing the coastal zone, and three miles inland
therefrom, less than 50 acres, in aggregate, of land which is vacant, privately owned and available
for residential use.:
(4) Theconversion or demolition of aresidential structure located within thejurisdiction of alocal
government which has established a procedure under which an applicant for conversion or
demolition will pay an in -lieu fee into a program, the various provisions of which, in aggregate, will
resultin thereplacementof thenumberof dwelling units which would otherwise havebeenrequired
by this subdivision. As otherwise required by this subdivision, the replacement units shall, (i) be
located within the coastal zone if feasible, or, if location within the coastal zone is not feasible, shall
be located within three miles of the coastal zone, and (ii) shall be provided and available for use
within time years from the date upon which work commenced on the conversion or demolition.
The requirements of this subdivision for replacement dwelling units shall not apply to the
demolition of any residential structure which has been declared to be a public nuisance under the
provisions of Division 13 (commencing with Section 17000) of the Health and Safety Code, or any
local ordinance enacted pursuant to those provisions.
For purposes of this subdivision, no building, which conforms to the standards which were
applicable at the time the building was constructed and which does not constitute a substandard
building, as provided in Section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code, shall be deemed to be a
public nuisance solely because the building does not conform to one or more of the current
provisions of the Uniform Building Code as adopted within the jurisdiction for new construction.
(c) The conversion or demolition of any residential structure for purposes of a nonresidential use
Shift in use
j
which is not "coastal dependent", as defined in Section 30101 of the Public Resources Code, shall
not be authorized unless the local government has first determined that a residential use is no longer
feasible in that location. If a local government makes this determination and authorizes the
conversion or demolition of the residential structure, it shall require replacement of any dwelling
units occupied by persons and families of low or moderate income pursuant to the applicable
provisions of subdivision (b).
(d) New housing developments constructed within the coastal zone shall, where feasible, provide
New housing
housing units for persons and families of low or moderate income, as defined in Section 50093 of
construction
the Health and Safety Code. Where itis not feasible to provide these housing units in aproposednew
housing development, the local government shall require the developer to provide such housing, if
feasible to do so, at another location within the same city or county, either within the coastal zone
or within three miles thereof. In order to assist in providing new housing units, each local
government shall offer density bonuses or other incentives, including, but not limited to, modifi-
cation of zoning and subdivision requirements, accelerated processing of required applications, and
the waiver of appropriate fees.
(e) Any determination of the "feasibility" of an action required to be taken by this section shall
Judicial standard of
be to the of Section 1094.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
review
reviewable pursuant provisions
(f) The housing provisions of any local coastal program prepared and certified pursuant to
Division 20 (commencing with Section 30000) of the Public Resources Code prior to January 1,
Grandfathering
1982, shall be deemed to satisfy all of the requirements of this section. Any change or alteration in
those housing provisions made on or after January 1, 1982, shall be subject to all of the requirements
of this section.
(g) As used in this section:
Definitions
0) "Conversion" means a change of a residential dwelling, including a mobilehome, as defined
in Section 18408 of the Health and Safety Code, or a mobilehome lot in a mobilehome park, as
defined in Section 18214 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential hotel as definedinparagraph
(1) of subdivision (b) of Section 50519 of the Health and Safety Code, to a condominium,
j
cooperative, or similar form of ownership; or a change of a residential dwelling, including a
mobilehome, or a mobilehome lot in a mobilehome park, or a residential hotel to a nonresidential
use.
(2) "Demolition" means the demolition of a residential dwelling, including a mobilehome, as
defined in Section 18008 of the Health and Safety Code, or a mobilehome lot in a mobilehome park,
as defined in Section 18214 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential hotel, as defined in
The Planning, Zoning, and Development Laws - 51
The Planning and Zoning Law
paragraph (1) of subdivision'(b) of Section 50519 of the Health and Safety Code, which has not been
declared to be a public nuisance under Division 13 (commencing with Section 17000) of the Health
,:and Safety Code or any local ordinance enacted pursuant to those provisions.
� (3) "Feasible means capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable
Compliance
period of time, taking into account economic, environmental, social, and technical factors
(h) With respect to the requirements of Sections 65583 and 65584, compliance with the
requirements of this section is not intended and shall not be construed as any of the following:
(1) A statutory interpretation or determination of the local government actions which maybe -
necessary to comply with the requirements of those sections; except that compliance with this
section shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section
65583 for that portion of a local government's jurisdiction which is located within the coastal zone.
(2) A limitation on the program components which may be included in a housing element or a
requirement that a housing element be amended in order to incorporate within it any specific
provision of this section or related policies. Any revision of a housing element pursuant to Section
65588 shall, however, take into account any low- or moderate -income housing which has been
provided or required pursuant to this section.
(3) Except as otherwise specifically required by this section, a requirement that a local
government adopt individual ordinances or programs in order to implement the requirements of this
section.
Authority
(i) No provision of this section shall be construed as increasing or decreasing the authority of a
local government to enactordinances orto take any otheraction to ensure the continued affordability
of housing.
Fees
0) Local governments may impose fees upon persons subject to the provisions of this section to
offset administrative costs incurred in order to comply with the requirements of this section.
Legislative intent
(k) This section establishes minimum requirements for housing within the coastal zone for
persons and families of low or moderate income. It is not intended and shall not be construed as a
limitation or constraint on the authority or ability of a local government as may otherwise be
provided by law, to require or provide low- or moderate -income housing within the coastal zone
which is in addition to the requirements of this section.
(Amended by Stats. 1982, Ch. 1246.)
Two Sections 65590
Note: The Legislature adopted an additional Section 65590 (see following). Both Sections 65590
remain in effect.
Application of section
65590.1. Any local government which receives an application as provided in Section 30600.11 of the
Public Resources Code to apply therequirements of Section 65590 to aproposed development shall
apply these requirements within 90 days from the date on which it has received that application and
accepted it as complete. In the event that the local government has granted final discretionary
approval to the proposed development, or has determined that no such approval was required, prior
to receiving the application, it shall, nonetheless, apply the requirements and is hereby authorized
to conduct proceedings as may be necessary or convenient for the sole purpose of doing so.
(Added by Stats.,1982, Ch. 43. Effective February 17,1982.)
52 - The Planning, Zonin-&-and Development Laws
I J,
43
f�4"f
Filege *Ow dd
onbcy
and is ready for
.
ntaing
ted by
File �e OW," "' ad is ready 10"
J_�4�
doifucton by CiW Cie*
E�,t